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With the rapid development of information, energy, and materials industries in China, the demand for high-performance polymers is gradually increasing. Photosensitive polyimide (PSPI) has emerged as an ideal choice for high-performance optoelectronic materials due to its outstanding thermal stability, mechanical strength, and low dielectric constant. In particular, bio-based photosensitive polyimide prepared from bio-based chemicals, as a green polymer material, not only reflects the advantages of environmental protection and resource efficiency but also contributes to carbon neutrality. However, how to improve the photolithography efficiency while maintaining the thermodynamic performance and environmental friendliness and how to balance the pros and cons of low-molecular-weight matrixes are still challenges in the research. This review systematically summarizes the synthesis and performance characteristics of photosensitive polyimides, bio-based polyimide, and bio-based photosensitive polyimides and further explores the future application prospects of bio-based polyimides in the field of high-performance optoelectronic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven new species of the family Psychomyiidae Walker, 1852 are described and illustrated from China; they are Psychomyia shuni sp. nov., Ps. mangshanensis sp. nov., Ps. capricornis sp. nov., Lype sagittalis sp. nov., Paduniella fasciaria sp. nov., Pa. sanyaensis sp. nov., and Tinodes aviformis sp. nov. The genus Lype is reported for the first time from mainland China. In addition, four psychomyiids are found to be new to the Chinese caddis fauna: Psychomyia indra Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1993; Paduniella andamanensis Malicky, 1979; Pa. dendrobia Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1993; and Tinodes gapbona Johanson & Oláh, 2008. Moreover, Psychomyia polyacantha Li, Qiu & Morse, 2021 is reviewed and synonymized with Psychomyia imamiah Malicky, 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary healthcare professionals were overworked and psychologically overwhelmed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Resilience is an important shield for individuals to cope with psychological stress and improve performance in crises. This study aims to explore the association of individual resilience with organizational resilience, perceived social support and job performance among healthcare professionals in township health centers of China during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Data from 1,266 questionnaires were collected through a crosssectional survey conducted in December 2021 in Shandong Province, China. Descriptive analysis of individual resilience, organizational resilience, perceived social support, and job performance was conducted. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the correlations among these variables, and structural equation modeling was performed to verify the relationships between these variables. Results: The score of individual resilience was 101.67 ± 14.29, ranging from 24 to 120. Organizational resilience (β = 0.409, p < 0.01) and perceived social support (β = 0.410, p < 0.01) had significant direct effects on individual resilience. Individual resilience (β = 0.709, p < 0.01) had a significant direct effect on job performance. Organizational resilience (β = 0.290, p < 0.01) and perceived social support (β = 0.291, p < 0.01) had significant indirect effects on job performance. Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the individual resilience of healthcare professionals in township health centers was at a moderate level. Organizational resilience and perceived social support positively affected individual resilience, and individual resilience positively affected job performance. Furthermore, individual resilience mediated the effect of organizational resilience and perceived social support on job performance. It is recommended that multiple stakeholders work together to improve the individual resilience of primary healthcare professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The male adult of Molanna truncata Ge, Peng & Sun sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on material collected in Si-chuan, China. It could be diagnosed by the subtriangular superior appendages when viewed dorsally, and by the mesal appendages each having a slender thorn and inferior appendages with a tiny inner process. Based on morphology of genitalia, we provide a dichotomous key to adult males of Molanna from the Oriental region. The DNA barcodes (partial mt COI sequences) of M. truncata sp. nov. are generated and compared with existing sequences of Molanna species from Oriental and Palearctic regions. The mean intraspecific divergence of Molanna was 1.58% with a maximum of 8.50% in M. moesta. The Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) analysis of Molanna inferred 9 OTUs and thresholds of interspecific divergence of 10%. Divergence of M. truncata sp. nov. haplotypes from all other Molanna haplotypes ranged from 10.1% to 18%. We discuss distribution and potential groups of species within the Oriental Molanna species based on morphology [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hookworm disease is endemic in China and is widespread globally. The disease burden to humans is great. Methods: The study described the national surveillance of hookworm implemented in 31 provinces/autonomous regions/municipalities (P/A/Ms) of China in 2019. Each P/A/M determined the number and location of surveillance spots (counties). A unified sampling method was employed, and at least 1000 subjects were investigated in each surveillance spot. The modified Kato-Katz thick smear method was employed for stool examination. Fifty samples positive with hookworm eggs were cultured in each surveillance spot to discriminate species between A. duodenale and N. americanus. Twenty-five soil samples were collected from each surveillance spot and examined for hookworm larva. The 2019 surveillance results were analyzed and compared with that of 2016–2018. Results: A total of 424766 subjects were investigated in 31 P/A/Ms of China in 2019, and the overall hookworm infection rate was 0.85% (3580/424766). The weighted infection and standard infection rates were 0.66% (4288357/648063870) and 0.67% (4343844/648063870), respectively. Sichuan province had the highest standard infection rate (4.75%) in 2019, followed by Chongqing (2.54%) and Hainan (2.44%). The standard infection rates of other P/A/Ms were all below 1%, with no hookworm detected in 15 P/A/Ms. The standard hookworm infection rate in the males and the females were 0.61% (2021216/330728900) and 0.71% (2267141/317334970), respectively, with a significant difference between different genders (χ2 = 17.23, P<0.0001). The highest standard hookworm infection rate (1.97%) was among age ≥ 60 years, followed by 45~59 years (0.77%), 15~44 years (0.37%), and 7~14 years (0.20%). The lowest standard infection rate was among the 0~6 years age group (0.12%). A significant difference was observed among different age groups (χ2 = 2 305.17, P<0.0001). The constitute ratio for N. americanus, A. duodenale, and coinfection was 78.70% (1341/1704), 2.03% (346/1704), and 1.00% (17/1704), respectively. The detection rate of hookworm larva from soil was 3.45% (71/2056). Conclusion: The national surveillance showed that the hookworm infection rate has been decreasing annually from 2016 to 2019, and it is now below 1%. China has made significant progress in controlling hookworm. The national surveillance system is an important way to understand the endemic status and provide important information in this process and thus needs to be continually optimized. Author summary: Hookworm disease is endemic in China. The national surveillance system on important parasitic diseases including hookworm infection has been established in China. Stool samples were collected from participants, and the Kato-Katz method was applied to detect helminth eggs while samples with hookworm eggs were further cultured to differentiate the species of the parasite. Additionally, soil samples were collected and examined for hookworm larva. In 2019, the overall infection rate of hookworm in China was 0.85% (3580/424766). High prevalence was demonstrated in Western and Southern China, including Sichuan (4.75%), Chongqing (2.54%) and Hainan (2.44%). The prevalence was high in the females (0.71%) than in the males (0.61%), while it was high in older population especially those age over 60 years. N. americanus dominated the hookworm species. The prevalence of hookworm in soil was 3.45%. Overally, hookworm infection decreased to a low level in China. However, there still exist high endemic areas. Thus, intervention needs to be applied in the high endemic areas and elder population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) is the largest accretionary orogenic belt in the world and its formation involved a complicated process of arc–continent collision. Large‐scale Mesozoic volcanic activity in the Great Xing'an Range (GXAR) in northeastern China, which constitutes part of the eastern CAOB, has received much recent research attention. However, the petrogenesis and formation mechanism of the late Mesozoic igneous rocks remain enigmatic. This paper investigates the geochronology, petrogenesis, and formation mechanism of late Mesozoic magmatic rocks in the Kelihe area of the GXAR based on zircon U–Pb dating, petrology, and geochemistry. Late Mesozoic magmatism in the Kelihe area occurred during the Late Jurassic (165–155 Ma) and Early Cretaceous (130–120 Ma). These igneous rocks generated by this magmatism are characterized by high SiO2 (69.97–75.49 wt%) and low MgO (0.11–0.68 wt%), Cr (10–30 ppm), Co (0.2–2.6 ppm), and Ni (0.5–1.6 ppm) contents. Trace elements show enrichment in Rb, Th, U, Zr, and K, and depletion in Ba, P, Nb, and Ti. These features indicate that the rocks were derived from partial melting of the crust. Furthermore, the rhyolites have high Na2O (5.02–5.44 wt%) and K2O (3.94–4.88 wt%) contents, similar to those of melts formed by the partial melting of basaltic crust. Combining the present results with the findings of previous studies, it is inferred that the Mesozoic igneous rocks formed in a post‐collisional extensional setting related to lithospheric thinning and asthenospheric upwelling after the closure of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Based on two national surveys, the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) in China had decreased from 53.58% in 1988–1992 to 19.56% in 2001–2004. To update the epidemiology and characteristics of STH in China, a third national survey was implemented in 2014–2015. Methodology/Principal findings: This survey covered rural areas in 31 provinces in mainland of China. Multiple-stage stratified cluster sampling was employed, which included three levels (provinces, ecozones and economical levels). Stool samples were collected and the Kato-Katz method was applied for helminth eggs detection. Samples with hookworm eggs were selected and hatched to differentiate the species based on larval morphology. Between June 2014 and May 2015, a total of 484,210 participants from 604 counties were enrolled. The weighted prevalence of STH overall was 4.49% (95% confidential interval (CI): 2.45%-6.53%), including 2.62% (95% CI: 0.86%-4.38%) hookworm infections, 1.36% (95% CI: 0.49%-2.23%) ascariasis, and 1.02% (95% CI: 0.15%-1.89%) trichuriasis. The estimated population infected was 29.12 million (95% CI: 15.88 million-42.32 million) for all STH; 16.97 million (95% CI: 5.57 million-28.39 million) for hookworm infections; 8.83 million (95% CI: 3.18 million-14.45 million) for ascariasis; and 6.60 million (95% CI: 0.97 million-12.25 million) for trichuriasis. Overall, the prevalence of ascariasis and trichuriasis was relatively high in children, while hookworm infections were more common in the older population, especially those over 60. STH was highly prevalent in western China, and moderately in central areas, but low in eastern and northern regions. Out of 3,579 hookworm cases with species differentiation, 479 cases (13.38%) were infected with only Ancylostoma spp., 2,808 cases (78.46%) with only Necator americanus, and another 292 cases (8.16%) with both species. Conclusions/Significance: This survey demonstrated the continuous decrease of STH in rural China. However, endemicity still prevails in the western areas of the country. Hookworm, especially N. americanus, is becoming the predominant species. Older farmers in western China should be prioritized for control due to the high prevalence of hookworm. Author summary: Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) had decreased significantly in China based on the two national surveys implemented in 1988–1992 and 2001–2004, respectively. In 2014–2015, an updated national survey on STH was implemented in rural China. This survey covered rural areas of 31 provinces in mainland of China and multiple-stage stratified cluster sampling was employed. Stool samples were collected and examined for helminth eggs. Totally, 484,210 villagers from 604 counties in 31 provinces participated in the survey. The adjusted prevalence of STH was 4.49%, and that of hookworm infections, ascariasis, trichuriasis was 2.62%, 1.36%, 1.02%, respectively. The estimated population with STH was 29.12 million, while that with hookworm infections, ascariasis, trichuriasis was 16.97 million, 8.83 million, 6.60 million, respectively. Children showed a high prevalence in ascariasis and trichuriasis, while the older population had a high prevalence of hookworm infections. STH was still highly prevalent in western parts, moderately in central areas, and low in eastern and northern regions. Further efforts are needed to control STH in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonorchis sinensis infection is highly prevalent in Asia. Diverse hepatobiliary morbidity has been documented for C. sinensis infection. This study aimed to assess the association between C. sinensis infection and hepatobiliary morbidity, taking into consideration of the control, confounders and infection intensity. A cross-sectional community survey was implemented in Hengxian county, southeastern China. Helminth infections were detected by fecal examination. Physical examination and abdominal ultrasonography were then conducted. After excluding confounding effects from gender, age and alcohol drinking, quantitative association between C. sinensis infection and hepatobiliary morbidity was assessed, and the effect from infection intensity was also evaluated, through adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). 696 villagers older than 10 years were enrolled. The prevalence and infection intensity of C. sinensis were higher in male, elder people and the individuals consuming alcohol. Light C. sinensis infection was associated with the increase of diarrhoea (aOR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.1–4.5). C. sinensis infection was associated with the increase of fatty liver (aOR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.4–5.2), and the effect was similar in different infection intensities. Moderate C. sinensis infection was associated with the increase of gallbladder stone (aOR: 3.0, 95% CI: 1.1–8.6), while moderate and heavy infections with the increase of intrahepatic bile duct dilatation (aOR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.0–4.9 and aOR: 4.3, 95% CI: 1.9–9.9, respectively). C. sinensis infection had an effect on the development of periductal fibrosis (aOR: 3.2, 95% CI: 2.1–4.9), which showed increasing trend by infection intensity. The length and width of gallbladder in those with C. sinensis infection were enlarged, especially in those over 30 years old. C. sinensis infection is significantly associated with hepatobiliary morbidity. The occurrence of some morbidity was strongly related to the infection intensity. Awareness on harm of clonorchiasis should be raised both for policy-makers and villagers to adopt effective interventions. Author summary: Clonorchiasis is caused by ingestion of raw freshwater fish, which carries the larvae of Clonorchis sinensis. In this study, we aimed to assess the damages associated with clonorchiasis. A cross-sectional field survey was carried out in Hengxian county, southeastern China. Stool samples were collected and examined for helminth infections. Then, physical examination and abdominal ultrasonography were conducted. In total, 696 villagers older than 10 years were included. The prevalence and infection intensity of C. sinensis were higher in male, elder people and those drinking alcohol. Excluding the impact from gender, age and alcohol drinking, it was demonstrated that light C. sinensis infection was associated with the increase of diarrhoea, moderate infection with gallbladder stone, and moderate and heavy infections with intrahepatic bile duct dilatation. C. sinensis infection was relevant to the increase of fatty liver, and the effect was similar in different infection intensities. C. sinensis infection was associated with the development of periductal fibrosis and the effect increased by infection intensity. The length and width of gallbladder in individuals with C. sinensis infection were enlarged, especially in those over 30 years old. Thus, our study demonstrates that C. sinensis infection is associated with severe hepatobiliary morbidity, and the effect is strongly related to infection intensity for some morbidity. Concerted efforts should be exerted to tackle the morbidity in clonorchiasis endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonorchiasis is caused by ingestion of raw freshwater fish containing infective larvae of Clonorchis sinensis. China harbours the largest number of people with C. sinensis infection. During the past three decades, the National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, affiliated to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NIPD) conducted many studies to facilitate the control on clonorchiasis. Three national surveys have shown the updated epidemiology of clonorchiasis in China. Recently, a national surveillance system has also been established, which will enable the production of high-resolution map. The evaluation of the disease burden has enhanced the awareness on clonorchiasis. Diverse diagnosis techniques including rapid screening by questionnaire, serological tests, faecal examination and a molecular method have been developed or evaluated. The NIPD also participated in the early evaluation of praziquantel against clonorchiasis, which enhanced its application in China. Also, the NIPD has verified the efficacy of tribendimidine against clonorchiasis. A new sustainable strategy is also being explored. However, more research is expected to further facilitate control of clonorchiasis in China, as well as international cooperation in fighting human liver fluke infections in Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STHs) have been widely transmitted in China and the control of STHs was initiated by NIPD-CTDR since its foundation. Three national surveys on STHs have been carried out in China, and the infection rate has dropped from 53.58% in the first national survey (1988-92) to 4.49% in the third national survey (2014-16) due to strong interventions including mass drug administration, health education and environment improvement. National surveillance of STHs started in 2006 and has been implemented successively until now, which allows to understand the endemic status and trends of STHs prevalence in China. Surveillance has been expanded to 30 provinces of China since 2016. Integrated pilot programmes have been implemented between 2006 and 2009, in which an integrated strategy, with health education and control of infection sources as key components, was adopted. Since 2019, new control pilots have been started, which will be continued for five successive years to further explore appropriate control strategies in the current "new era". With the decline of infection rate of STHs, China is approaching the elimination stage for STHs. In order to achieve this final target, poverty alleviation programmes should be integrated with precise control measures, according to real situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonorchiasis is caused by raw-freshwater fish-eating practice and causes high burden in Asia. Transmission mechanism of this behavior hasn't been illuminated, which hinders the adoption of sustainable control activities. A cross-sectional survey was implemented in students from four endemic provinces in China. Data with 23,222 students aged 9–18 and their parents were eligible. Familial clustering of raw-eating practice, impact of parents' practice on children, interaction of spouses' practice was analyzed. Raw-eating practice met β-binomial distribution (χ2 = 0.8, p>0.05). Clustering coefficient increased by students' age (R2 = 0.82, p<0.001) and was higher in those families with boys compared to girls (t = 4.1, p<0.01). The proportion of students with raw-eating practice increased yearly by 8.9% in girls and 10.5% in boys. Compared to those without parents' raw-eating practice, adjusted odds ratio of students' raw-eating practice was 10.5 (95% confidential intervals (95% CI): 9.4–11.7) in those with fathers' practice, 33.6 (95% CI: 26.3–42.9) in those with mothers' practice and 47.1 (95% CI: 42.0–52.8) in those with both parents' practice. There exists interaction between spouses' practice (χ2 = 6713.1, p<0.001) and the impact from husband on his wife was higher than that from wife on her husband. Familial assimilation characterizes the transmission of raw-freshwater fish-eating practice, consisted of vertical intergenerational assimilation from parents to their children and horizontal martial assimilation between spouses. A sustainable strategy against clonorchiasis should interrupt the transmission of raw-freshwater fish-eating practice. Additionally, further studies are expected to explore more information, e.g. the frequency in raw-eating practice and type of raw freshwater fish, infection status of C. sinensis in participants, as well as direct collection of parents' eating information from themselves. Author summary: Clonorchiasis is caused by the ingestion of raw freshwater fish, which contains the infective larvae of Clonorchis sinensis. It is highly endemic in Asia, where about 15 million people are afflicted. To establish sustainable control strategy, the transmission of raw-eating practice needs to be illuminated. In this study, we conducted a survey in school students from four clonorchiasis endemic provinces in China, covering 23,222 students aged 9–18. The characteristics of raw-eating practice, impact of parents' raw-eating practice on children, interaction of spouses' practice was explored. It is demonstrated that raw-eating practice presents familial clustering, which is higher in those families with older children and with boys. Raw-eating practice in children is highly influenced by their parents' raw-eating practice especially when both parents do. Additionally, there exists interaction between spouses' raw-eating practice. The impact of husband's raw-eating practice on his wife is higher than that of wife's raw-eating practice on her husband. Familial assimilation dominates the transmission of raw-freshwater eating-practice, including the assimilation from parents to their children and that between spouses. This finding indicates the adoption of sustainable strategy against clonorchiasis through blocking raw-freshwater fish-eating practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to understand the impact of market power and competition on earnings management, particularly discretionary accruals, in the Chinese and Taiwanese tourism industries. China and Taiwan differ not only in their political and social systems but also in their economic systems. The research aims to provide managers and investors with stock selection strategy in the decision-making process. Design/methodology/approach: Accounting data consisted of 60 publicly traded travel companies in China and Taiwan from 2000 to 2014. Methodology included correlation matrix for the variables, univariate and multivariate regression and competition analysis. Findings: Based on empirical results, the authors found a significant negative correlation between market power and discretionary accruals and market concentration (or lower market competition) and discretionary accruals in both the Chinese or Taiwanese markets. Although the Chinese travel companies enjoyed higher market power and market concentration, they engaged in less earnings manipulation than their Taiwanese counterparts as a result of the Chinese Government regulation. Research limitations/implications: Based on listed travel companies, generalization of the research results to entire tourism industry is limited. This study compares the travel companies' practices of smoothing out earnings between China and Taiwan, thus helping managers and investors in making their financing, investment decisions. Originality/value: This research contributes to the earnings management literature by examining a specific industry of tourism. This paper is original in two ways. The authors linked market power and market competition with earnings management simultaneously and then compared the Chinese and Taiwanese tourism industries in manipulating earnings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Neoarchean charnockite of Yinshan Block has been a hot topic into understanding the Precambrian geology of the North China Craton. Although there is a broad consensus that the charnockite is usually related to granulite‐facies metamorphism, its petrogenesis and tectonics still remain controversial. We present a comparative study of the petrography, geochemistry, and geochronology of charnockite and intermediate–basic granulite in the Jining area along the northern margin of the North China Craton. Inclusions within hypersthene in charnockite are used to identify the peak granulite facies mineral assemblage, with the formation of charnockite being attributed to anatexis of the protolith associated with this granulite‐facies metamorphism. Anatexis occurred mainly during postpeak isothermal decompression, as inferred from the metamorphic evolution and pressure–temperature conditions (granulite and charnockite record peak pressure–temperature conditions of 750°C–1,000°C and 0.8–1.2 GPa and 850°C–975°C and 0.9–1.0 GPa, respectively) derived from analyses of metamorphic minerals using electron probe microanalysis, combined with previous zircon geochronology. Hypersthene in charnockite is interpreted to be a residual or peritectic mineral phase that was present during anatexis, and the charnockite is inferred to have been crystallized from a melt containing abundant residual minerals. Charnockite has similar geochemical characteristics to those of intermediate–basic granulite but differs in several key ways: (a) The charnockite is strongly depleted in the large‐ion lithophile element Cs, the heat‐producing elements U and Th, and the high‐field‐strength elements Nb, Ta, P, and Ti; (b) it is enriched in Sr; and (c) it exhibits both positive and negative Eu anomalies, which are characteristics of granites formed largely by in situ anatexis. Geochemical constraints indicate that the intermediate charnockite and retrograde metamorphic biotite–hornblende gneiss may both be the product of mantle‐derived magma in a magmatic subduction‐related back‐arc extensional environment. This setting provided a hot spot for metamorphic anatexis, with additional heat being provided by the upwelling of asthenospheric mantle. After the cessation of subduction by ~2,470 Ma, a magmatic arc extensional setting developed in the Jining area. The charnockite was involved in Paleoproterozoic orogenesis in the North China Craton and was strongly modified by a ~1,950‐Ma metamorphism event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northeast (NE) China is characterized by large areas of Mesozoic and Paleozoic granitoids, whereas Cenozoic granitoids are scarce. This paper reports LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb ages and whole-rock geochemical data for late Paleocene-early Eocene granitoids from the Jiamusi Massif, NE China, in order to determine their petrogenesis and tectonic implications. Geochronological data indicate that the granodiorite and dioritic porphyry from the Wudingshan pluton formed at 51.5 ± 0.3 Ma and 56.3 ± 0.8 Ma, respectively. The biotite-quartz diorite, biotite granodiorite, and dioritic porphyry have high SiO2 (68.38-70.06 wt.%), Al2O3 (15.34-15.79 wt.%), and Na2O (3.96-4.49 wt.%) contents, low MgO contents (1.10-1.26 wt.%), A/CNK ratios of 0.99-1.11, and are classified as medium- to high-K calc-alkaline and weakly peraluminous I-type granitoids. They are enriched in LREEs and LILEs, and depleted in HFSEs, with Nb/Ta ratios of 10.4-15.0. Moreover, they have negative Nb-Ta-Ti anomalies, indicating that they were derived from continental crust. Combining with the previously published isotopic data and regional geological results, we suggest that the late Paleocene-early Eocene granitoids (56-52 Ma) were probably derived from partial melting of juvenile lower crust, and formed in an active continental margin setting, possibly related to subduction slab rollback of the Paleo-Pacific Plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is the first-choice herb for fatigue treatment in traditional Chinese medicine and the main herb used for stroke treatment in China and Taiwan. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of AM on poststroke fatigue (PSF). Materials and methods This study was designed as a double-blind, randomized, controlled preliminary study. Sixty-four patients with PSF were assigned to treatment group (TG; 31 patients), which received oral administration of AM (2.8 g three times per day) for 28 days, and a control group (CG; 33 patients), which received a placebo. The primary outcome measures were the changes in the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Brief Fatigue Index (BFI) scores Results A total of 61 patients (29 patients in the TG and 32 patients in the CG) completed the trial. The difference in BFI scores between Visit 2 and Visit 1 was –17.83±17.70 in the TG, which was greater than that in the CG (–8.03±9.95; p =0.01); additionally, the difference in BFI scores between Visit 3 and Visit 1 was –16.48±16.41 in the TG, which was also greater than that in the CG (–9.47±13.39; p =0.05). In the EORTC QLQ-C30, the difference in cognitive functioning scores between Visit 2 and Visit 1 was 14.37±13.89 in the TG, which was greater than that in the CG (3.65±19.74; p =0.02); additionally, the difference in these scores between Visit 3 and Visit 1 was 14.37±16.50 in the TG, which again was greater than that in the CG (6.25±19.74; p =0.04). The difference in social functioning scores between Visit 3 and Visit 1 was 9.77±15.12 in the TG, which was greater than that in the CG (–1.56±20.46; p =0.01). The difference in global quality of life (QOL) scores between Visit 2 and Visit 1 was 14.08±18.78 in the TG, which was also greater than that in the CG (1.56±18.14; p =0.003); moreover, the difference in these scores between Visit 3 and Visit 1 was 10.92±17.55 in the TG, and this was greater than that in the CG (1.82±15.8; p =0.05). Conclusion AM can improve BFI scores; cognitive functioning, social functioning, and global QOL scores in the EORTC QLQ-C30. Our results suggest that physicians should pay close attention to the unmet medical needs of patients with PSF. AM is helpful for treating patients with PSF; however, additional studies with a larger sample and a longer period of investigation are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dilong is an earthworm extract with a dense nutritional content, widely used in Chinese herbal medicine to remove stasis and stimulate wound healing. Earthworm extracts are traditionally used by indigenous people throughout the world. How this Dilong inhibits Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiomyoblast cell apoptosis is still unclear. This study investigates the Dilong extract effect on LPS-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells. LPS (1 μg/ml) administration for 24 h induced apoptosis in H9c2 cells. Cell apoptosis was detected using MTT, LDH, TUNEL assay and JC-1 staining. Western blot analysis was used to detect pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins. Dilong extract totally blocked the LPS impact, leading to the activation of anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, stabilized the mitochondria membrane and down-regulated the extrinsic and intrinsic pro-apoptotic proteins, TNF-α, active caspase-8, t-Bid, Bax, active caspase-9 and active caspase-3. Dilong could potentially serve as a cardio protective agent against LPS-induced H9c2 cardiomyoblast cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During 1989-2011, three parasitic disease surveys were conducted in Hengxian County, China, where soil-transmitted helminthiases and foodborne clonorchiasis are endemic. We compared the data and found that the prevalence of helminthiases decreased and the prevalence and intensity of clonorchiasis increased over time, especially among men. Clonorchiasis control/intervention measures are urgently needed in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aimed to estimate the up-to-date prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its relationship with physical activity among suburban adults in Beijing, China. Methods: A cross-sectional survey in a representative sample of 19,003 suburban adults aged 18-76 years was carried out in 2007-2008. Data was collected via questionnaires and blood pressure, anthropometric, and laboratory measurements. Results: Of the residents aged 18-76 years in suburban Beijing, 25.9% (27.3% in men and 25.1% in women), 21.3% (19.4% in men and 22.9% in women), and 25.3% (24.2% in men and 26.1% in women) had 1 component, 2 components, and 3 or more components of metabolic syndrome, respectively. The age-standardized prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components, including abdominal obesity, elevated triglycerides, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, and elevated fasting plasma glucose, decreased across categories with increasing physical activity. After adjusting for age, sex, education level, smoking, and alcohol consumption, residents were more likely to have metabolic syndrome across categories with decreasing physical activity; a similar relationship also applied to components of metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: A high prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components is commonly present in suburban Beijing. Increasing physical activity can reduce the relative risk of metabolic syndrome and it components. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clonorchiasis caused by ingesting improperly prepared fish ranks among the most important but still neglected food-borne parasitic diseases, especially in the People's Republic of China (P.R. China). To promote the implementation of interventions efficiently, the demonstration of an epidemiological profile of Clonorchis sinensis infection is essential in hyper-epidemic areas. Methods: In one community with higher levels of economic development in Guangdong province, P.R. China, villagers were motivated to provide stool samples for examining helminth eggs. Then, those infected with C. sinensis completed the structured questionnaire including demographical characteristics, knowledge and behavior. Results: A total of 293 villagers infected with C. sinensis participated in questionnaire investigation. Among them, 94.54% were adult and 93.17% were indigenous. The geometric mean of C. sinensis eggs per gram of feces in the children, adult females and adult males was 58, 291 and 443, respectively. The divergence between knowledge and behavior in the adults, especially the adult males, was shown. Out of 228 persons eating raw fish, 160 did it more frequently at restaurants, the proportion of which varied in different populations, showing 25.00%, 54.88% and 80.28% in the children, adult females and adult males, respectively. Conclusions: Different interventions need to be adopted in different populations. Chemotherapy should be prioritized in the adults, especially the adult males. In addition, health education targeting the children, is essential and may play a crucial role in controlling clonorchiasis in the long term. In order to successfully control clonorchiasis, intervention in the restaurant should not be overlooked in some endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa) is an ornamental plant and widely cultivated in China due to its environmental adaptability. Here, the complete chloroplast genome of the H. ventricosa has been constructed from the Illumina sequencing data. The circular cp genome is 155,322 bp in size, and comprises a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 24,912 bp each, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 84,113 bp, and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 20,782 bp. The total GC content is 38.0%, while the corresponding values of the LSC, SSC, and IR region are 36.2%, 32.5%, and 43.4%, respectively. The chloroplast genome contains 135 genes, including 88 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNA genes, and 39 transfer RNA genes. The neighbor-joining phylogenetic analysis showed a strong sister relationship with Hosta capitata in Hosta. Our findings provide a foundation for further investigation of chloroplast genome evolution in ornamental plant Hosta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the efficiency of treating micro-polluted reservoir water from the Yellow River using PAC-MBR, four processes combined with coagulation (ployaluminium chloride and ferric chloride), coagulation-sedimentation and coagulation-air flotation were discussed, from the view of pollutants removal and membrane fouling, comparison with conventional treatment process/+ UF were also made. The results showed that all these processes guaranteed the turbidity and particle counts of effluent at 0.02 NTU and lower than 50 mL-1, with the removal efficiency above 98% and 95%, respectively. The average effluent UV254 ranged between 0.043 and 0.045 cm-1, and the removal rate were ( 18.28 ±9.35) %, (16.76±6.14)%, (3.23±1.26) % and (6.38±2.26) %, respectively. The average effluent CODMn, ranged from 1.85 to 1.94 mg/L,with removal efficiency of (4.22±7.49)%, (33.20±6.99)%, (22.20±8.91 ) % and (41.72±14. 25) %, respectively. As for particulate and organic matter, the removal efficiencies of hybrid processes were superior to conventional treatment process and almost equal to UF membrane combined processes in Nanjiao Water Treatment Plant. The NH3-N removal was above 95%, and the accumulation of NO2--N was not found. Considering the effect of eliminating membrane fouling, coagulation-sedimentation and coagulation-air flotation effect were the best, followed by ferric chloride, but that of polyaluminium chloride was the worst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the feasibility of hybrid membrane process for treating micro-polluted water, the treatment of micro-polluted reservoir water from Huanghe river, which presented low turbidity and low temperature were carried out, and the submerged membrane bioreactors without (MBR) and with ( PAC - MBR) powdered activated carbon (PAC) were evaluated for drinking water production, while the fouling mechanism of the two membrane were discussed too. Both of the MBR and PAC - MBR guaranteed the turbidity removal above 97%. The ability of organic substances removal were : PAC - MBR > MBR > conventional process > ultrafiltration (UF) alone. No effect of UF alone on NH3 - N removal was observed, while PAC - MBR and MBR gave an average removal rate of 73.39% and 65.01% , respectively. By comparing the trans-membrane pressure (TMP) trend of two bioreactors, it could be concluded that activated sludge, with PAC as a carrier, showed higher activity and better filterability than the activated sludge naturally formed, and PAC - MBR appeared a slower membrane fouling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Jishi" is a Chinese concessive conjunction, and can represent hypothesis in some context. Jishi" started its process of grammaticalization in Ming Dynasty, and finished it in the modern Chinese. There are about three phases in its process of grammaticalization, and "Jishi" is bouding of hypothesis concessive conjunction "Ji"+ causative "Shi". The "change of syntactic structure and semantic" and "linguistic context" are the main facts causing the grammaticalization of "Jishi". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil continues to be a major source of world energy, but oil prices and funds have experienced high volatility over the last decade. This study applies the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity-mixed-data sampling (GARCH-MIDAS) model on data spanning 1 July 2014 to 30 April 2020 to examine volatility transmission from the equity, bulk shipping, commodity, currency, and crude oil markets to the United States Oil Fund (USO) and BlackRock World Energy Fund A2 (BGF). By dividing the sample into two subsamples, we find a significant volatility transmission from the equity market to the oil ETF and energy fund both before and after the 2018 U.S.–China trade war. The volatility transmission from the bulk shipping, commodity, and crude oil markets turns significant for the oil ETF and energy fund after the 2018 U.S.–China trade war, extending into the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. The results suggest that investors can use the equity market to predict the movement of oil and energy funds during both tranquil and turmoil periods. Moreover, investors can use bulk shipping, commodity, and crude oil markets in addition to the equity market to forecast oil and energy funds' volatility during the turmoil periods. This paper benefits investors against the high volatility of the energy funds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cysticercosis is spreading all over the world and it is a major health problem in most countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Extensive disseminated cysticercosis is relatively rare and fewer than 120 case have been reported in the worldwide. We reported a rare case of extensive disseminated cysticercosis in Yunan province, China.Case Presentation: A rare case of extensive disseminated cysticercosis, in a 61-year-old male Chinese was detected from Yunnan province in 2018. Clinical and etiological examination was performed, as well as the epidemiological investigation.Conclusion: The life cycle of T. solium in the area where the case came from is complete. We expect this case could raise the attentions to the control of Taenia solium infection and subsequent cysticercosis there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helminthiases have placed a huge burden of disease on the population in China. However, widespread control activities have led to significant achievements. As health education has been widely disseminated and plays an important role in the control and elimination of these diseases, we collected health education products aimed at controlling and preventing helminthiases in China. We analyzed their characteristics and assessed their quality. Methods: Firstly, health education products aimed at controlling and preventing helminthiases were collected from a diverse range of organizations. Secondly, the expert brainstorming and Delphi methods were applied to establish an evaluation system, which was then used to assess the collected products systematically. Those deemed excellent were awarded. Characteristics – including type, source, targeted disease(s), targeted population, and languages – of the collected products and the awarded products were presented here. Results: In total, 96 health education products on helminthiases were collected from 53 organizations. Most products belonged to either the graphic design (47) or daily-use (24) category. Seventy were collected from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and 20 from institutes or control stations of parasitic diseases, primarily at the provincial and county levels. Regarding disease targets of the products, 67 focused on a single helminthiasis, 25 on multiple helminthiases, and the remaining four on non-specific diseases. Of the 67 single helminthiasis-focused products, most targeted schistosomiasis (37), followed by echinococcosis (16). The majority of products (79) targeted the general population, while 11 targeted students specifically. Regarding languages, 86 products were only in Chinese, while the other ten were in both Chinese and the minority languages of China. Out of these ten products, one targeted schistosomiasis and the other nine targeted echinococcosis. Thirty-four products were awarded. The characteristics of the awarded products were similar to those of the collected products. Conclusions: A diverse range of health education products have been designed and applied for the prevention and control of helminthiases in China. Many products have good features such as specifying the targeted diseases and populations. However, there are significant gaps in terms of both the quantity and quality of products pertaining to some of the diseases. Experiences from the awarded products could be drawn upon to design more products aimed at a range of different helminthiases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the Tenth Five-Year Plan, the litho-stratigraphic reservoir has been the key area that contributes to China petroleum exploration and increase of oil reserves and production, with proved reserves accounting for 80%. In this study, lithologic reservoir formation model of three types of slope basin, three types of sag basin and three types of their combination have been constructed through typical reservoir analysis, new experimental analysis technique application, physical simulation of hydrocarbon reservoir accumulation mechanism, formation and distribution models of oil and gas reservoirs of six basins that distributed in eastern, middle and western of China. This paper not only reveals the formation mechanism and major controlling factors of lithologic reservoirs, but also creates a method of evaluating giant oil and gas province. Main controlling factors and accumulation rules of two main types of stratigraphic reservoirs which are lithologic pinchout type and weathering crust karst type are discussed,and their evaluation methods are established. litho-stratigraphic reservoirs enrichment rules of four types of basin are further understood, the specified evaluation and delicate exploration technique are formed and the exploration direction of Thirteenth Five-Year Plan is defined.The research in this paper has supported evaluation and selection of oil and gas pools, promoting litho-stratigraphic reservoir exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years,important breakthrough progress and discovery has been made in exploration of petroleum from deep reservoirs of E23 in western Qaidam Basin. Based on core observation, petrographic and structural microscopic characteristics analysis, and geochemical analysis, the characteristics and major factors controlling the development of dolomite reservoirs in the Yingxi area in Qaidam Basin are studied. Dolomicrite was the main effective reservoir rock of E23 in the Yingxi region, whose physical characteristics are “low porosity-extra low permeability”. The reservoir spaces of the dolomite are mainly intergranular pore, but including some micro-cracks.Oil and gas can be produced stably in the Yingxi Oilfield because most oil and gas are preserved in these “small size-large quantity” pores. Research results of the geochemical characteristics of reservoir show that the dolomite is penecontemporaneous metasomatic type which formed in the salty conditions. Main evidence includes: (1)micro pore structure characteristics, (2)high Ca/Mg molar ratio of no ideal components, (3)low content of “Mn” element geochemical characteristics, (4)“carbon negative-oxygen positive” isotope geochemistry and the low temperature characteristics reflected by it, (5)low degree of order structure which is caused by the rapid nucleation and crystallization unstable environment. The shrinkage intergranular pores were formed by ion exchange in the crystal lattice in the special salty environment, and its pore size is controlled by the abundance of Mg2+ at that time. Therefore, the physical property of the reservoir is indirectly controlled by the paleo salinity. These intergranular pores have a strong ability to resist compaction and they can still be preserved in the deep, ultra deep strata. The origin model of dolomite determines its wide distribution in the plane. So the research findings expanded a new exploration field about lacustrine dolomite in western Qaidam whether in the plane distribution or in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two late Mesozoic granitoids in the Luanchuan area of the East Qinling orogen are considered; ore-bearing rocks are granite porphyries and granodiorite, with K2O>Na2O, appearing in the form of stocks. The Laojunshan rocks contains dominantly monzonitic granite, with K2O≈Na2O, in the form of a batholith. Both the ore-bearing rocks and the Laojunshan rocks are highly siliceous and shoshonitic, high-K calc-alkaline, similar to some I-type granites. Light rare earth elements (LREEs) are enriched in both rock suites, although the Luanchuan ore-bearing granitoids have higher concentrations, with (La/Yb) N ratios twice that of the barren Laojunshan granite suite. Ore-bearing rocks have, therefore, undergone greater fractionation of heavy rare earth elements. All Laojunshan rocks have negative Eu anomalies, indicating plagioclase fractionation. δEu values are different in both rock suites, the values in the ore-bearing granites, ranging from 0.52 to 1.04, which are much higher than that of Laojunshan batholith, ranging from 0.4 to 0.65. (La/Sm) N values of ore-bearing granites are 5.32–8.28, while that of Laojunshan batholith are 3.75–5.77, confirming the observation that the ore-bearing granites have undergone a higher degree of strong differentiation than that of Lanjunshan batholith. Major and trace element data, and REE data, combined with isotope data from previous work and the close relationships between the tectonic settings of the barren and ore-bearing rocks indicate that both groups of rocks were derived from the lower crust. At ∼157Ma, with the tectonic regime in transition from a syn-collisional to a post-collisional setting, highly fractionated granites ascended from their storage area via faults; at ∼145Ma, ore-bearing plutons, which are triggered by slab melts, formed at the junctions of fault planes trending WNW-ESE and NE-SW. At ∼115Ma, the tectonic regime changed from compression to extension; in this environment, the barren Laojunshan batholith was emplaced, representing the end of the collisional event. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Although Chinese cobra snakebite is the most common type of snake venenation in China, it still lacks a comprehensive and systematic description. Hence, we aimed to study Chinese cobra bite cases with particular attention to demography, epidemiology and clinical profile. In this study, a total of 292 cases of Chinese cobra snakebite, presenting between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2012, were retrospectively reviewed. To investigate the effect of treatment at different presentation times (time from snakebite to admission), the patients were divided into two groups: group A included 133 cases that presented <12h after the bite; group B included 159 cases that presented ≥12h after the bite. To assess the correlation between application of a tourniquet and skin grafting, the cases were re-divided into two groups according to whether or not a tourniquet was used after the snakebite: tourniquet group (n =220) and non-tourniquet group (n =72). The results showed that Chinese cobra snakebites were most commonly seen during the summer, in the upper limbs, and in males, young adults, and snake-hunters. Group A experienced milder intoxication than group B (P <0.001). The rate of skin grafting was significantly higher in the tourniquet group (20.0%, compared with 9.7% in the non-tourniquet group, P <0.05). The results of this study indicate that anti-cobra venom and swift admission (within 12h of the snakebite) are recommended for Chinese cobra snakebite. Tourniquet use is not recommended. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STHs) are caused by a group of intestinal nematode infections due to poor hygiene and environments, and clonorchiasis is a food-borne trematode (FBT) infection caused by ingestion of raw freshwater fish. Both are endemic in the People's Republic of China. To explore a suitable control strategy, integrated interventions were applied between 2007 and 2009 in ten pilot counties (eight for the STHs and two for clonorchiasis). Drug administration was used for treatment and complementary efforts to improve the situation based on health education, provision of clean water and sanitation were carried out. Significant achievements were gained as reflected by a drastic decrease in prevalence these infections were demonstrated. The overall prevalence of STHs and clonorchiasis decreased from 35.9% to 7.8% and from 41.4% to 7.0%, respectively. The reduction of prevalence and high cost-effectiveness were documented supporting large-scale application of this integrated intervention in China and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonorchis sinensis infection is caused by ingestion of raw freshwater fish containing the infective larvae of Clonorchis sinensis. It is highly endemic in East Asia, especially in China. Selective chemotherapy of people who report habitual eating of raw freshwater fish is a control measure. As the performance of this screening technique has not yet been fully evaluated in China, a cross-sectional study was conducted, covering 17 counties in four major clonorchiasis-endemic provinces. About 1 000 participants were enrolled from each county. Fecal samples were collected and examined for helminth eggs and each person enrolled was asked about their practice with respect to eating raw freshwater fish. In total, 16 230 participants from 16 counties were finally included. The overall prevalence of C. sinensis infection was 10.8%, ranging from 0 to 53.7% in the 16 counties, while the percentage of inhabitants eating raw freshwater fish was 26.5%, ranging from 0 to 79.1%. The overall sensitivity and specificity of screening for C. sinensis infection in this approach was 82.3% and 80.3%, respectively, yielding a Youden's index of 0.6. The overall positive and negative likelihood ratios were 4.2 and 0.2, respectively, while the overall positive and negative predictive values were 33.5% and 97.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the sensitivity was higher with regard to high-intensity infections compared to light infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are widely distributed and remain a public health problem in the People's Republic of China. Altogether, 301 counties across 30 regions were investigated during the national surveillance on STHs carried out in 2016 based on the modified Kato-Katz thick smear method to examine faecal samples. A total of 305 081 people were investigated with 7 366 (2.4%) found to be infected. The infection rates were the following: hookworm 1.4%, Ascaris lumbricoides 0.8% and Trichuris trichiura 0.5%. Having established that the STHs infection rate is relatively low, it is time to move towards elimination. The national surveillance system is essential for providing basic data and formulation of useful control strategies towards achieving this goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonorchiasis is an important food-borne parasitic disease in China, and infection with C. sinensis can cause hepatobiliary diseases. Comprehensive and systematic prevention and control of clonorchiasis requires the establishment of an effective surveillance. A total of 301 surveillance points were set up in 30 provinces across China in 2016, and 1000 people were selected by cluster sampling at each surveillance point annually for C. sinensis infection screening using Kato-Katz thick smear method. C. sinensis infection was detected in 6226 people following screening of 305081 people at the 301 surveillance points in 2016. Infection rate was 2.04%; with C. sinensis infection detected in 70 counties spread across 15 provinces, 89.37% of the infected people were distributed in Jilin, Heilongjiang, Guangdong and Guangxi provinces. Highest infection rate was observed in Da'an city, Jilin Province (49%). The national infection rate in male and female was 2.70% and 1.40% respectively. Infection rate between male and female was significantly different (P <0.01). Disease prevalence increases with age in both male and female, reaches peak in age group 40–49. Result obtained indicate that major C. sinensis endemic areas are distributed in the north and south of China, and areas with high prevalence are distributed along the river system at county level. Result, also, shows that middle-aged men are at high-risk of infection. These results suggest that surveillance activities should be sustained nationwide and highlight the need for an integrated approach to control C. sinensis transmission in regions with high disease prevalence in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adult female, larva, and pupa of Glossosoma (Lipoglossa) kamael Malicky 2012 from Qinghai Province, China, are described and illustrated. Molecular associations are based on COI sequences. The immature stages of the subgenus Lipoglossa are described for the first time. Biological and habitat information of G. kamael are presented.

Five new species of genus Tinodes Curtis 1834 from China are described, illustrated, and diagnosed based on distinctive characters of male genitalia, including Tinodes falcata n. sp., T. xuzhouorum n. sp., T. shunhuangshanensis n. sp., T. yangae n. sp., and T. lini n. sp. Tinodes falcata n. sp. differs from other members of Tinodes in having an unpaired falcate and strongly sclerotized phallic sheath process. Tinodes xuzhouorum n. sp. differs from T. charmi Malicky 2009 by the relative lengths of the superior appendages and the phallus, the position of the ejaculatory duct, and the angle formed by tergum IX and the superior appendages in lateral view. Tinodes shunhuangshanensis n. sp. can be distinguished from T. sartael Malicky 2017 by the phallic sheath process splitting into paired dorsal branches and an apically incised ventral branch. Tinodes yangae n. sp. differs from T. eris Malicky & Sangpradub 2001 by the dorsal phallic sheath process having extra paired vertical branches. Tinodes lini n. sp. differs from T. dactringa Johanson & Oláh 2008 by the phallic guide with a pair of closely attached dorsal branches.

Clonorchiasis is caused by the ingestion of raw freshwater fish and causes high burden in East Asia. The epidemiological profiles and determinants of C. sinensis infection, knowledge, practice and attitude related to clonorchiasis were demonstrated in Hengxian county, Guangxi, China. The overall prevalence of C. sinensis was 60.3%, which was higher in male than in female and in elder population compared to children. The percentage knowing local transmission, transmission route and harm of C. sinensis was 20.9%, 31.4% and 32.5%. A percentage of 60.4% reported ingestion of raw freshwater fish, while 70.1% persons would like to accept treatment if infected with C. sinensis. Of the individuals ingesting raw freshwater fish, 82.0% did at home and 81.3% drunk alcohol when ingesting raw freshwater fish. Sixty-two percent showed the persistence on ingestion of raw freshwater fish in future. The ingestion of raw freshwater fish varied by seasons, with a proportion of 57.8% in spring, 48.3% in summer, 60.2% in autumn and 92.2% in winter. In multivariable regression models, age groups, history with C. sinensis treatment, and frequency on ingesting raw freshwater fish were related to C. sinensis infection, while gender, educational level, history with C. sinensis infection, and knowing local transmission were related to the practice of ingesting raw freshwater fish. Gender, history with C. sinensis treatment, frequency on ingesting raw freshwater fish, duration of ingesting raw freshwater fish and drinking alcohol when ingesting raw freshwater fish were associated to the attitude to the ingestion of raw freshwater fish in future. Great efforts are needed to combat clonorchiasis, in which the heterogeneity of population in knowledge, practice, attitude and infection needs to be considered. Men are of crucial importance in term of the morbidity control through chemotherapy. Meanwhile, massive education is expected to implement, which needs to promote the change of ingesting raw freshwater fish for sustainable control of clonorchiasis., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Chinese Pharmacopoeia is an important part of drug standards in China, and it is also a legal basis that must be strictly followed in drug development, production, operation, application, and management. The information on prescriptions, preparation methods, properties, identification, inspection, content determination, functions and indications, usage and dosage, precautions, specifications, and storage of Chinese patent medicine preparations included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(Vol.Ⅰ) was clarified. The &quot;Preparation Method&quot; section describes the preparation process of Chinese patent medicine from decoction pieces to finished preparations in detail and specifies the preparation production methods and parameters, which has a good guiding and standardizing effect on the production of Chinese patent medicine in China. The present study summarized the preparation methods of Chinese patent medicine preparations and single drug preparations contained in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(2020 edition, Vol.Ⅰ) in stages and analyzed the common preparation methods and technical parameters of Chinese patent medicine preparations, which is helpful to understand the current situation of Chinese patent medicine production technology in China and can provide references for the development of new Chinese medicine, the transformation of large varieties of Chinese patent medicine, and the optimization of preparation process of Chinese patent medicine in the market.

Background: Clonorchiasis is attributed to the ingestion of raw freshwater fish harboring Clonorchis sinensis. Morbidity control is targeted through the administration of antihelminthics. This study modelled the cost yield indicated by effectiveness and utility of different treatment strategies against clonorchiasis., Methods: About 1000 participants were enrolled from each of 14 counties selected from four provincial-level administrative divisions namely Guangxi, Guangdong, Heilongjiang and Jilin in 2017. Fecal examination was adopted to detect C. sinensis infection, while behavior of ingesting raw freshwater fish was enquired. Counties were grouped into four categories based on prevalence, namely low prevalence group (< 1%), moderate prevalence group (1-9.9%), high prevalence group (10-19.9%) and very high prevalence group (≥ 20%), while population were divided into three subgroups, namely children aged below 14 years old, adult female and adult male both aged over 14 years old. The average of cost effectiveness indicated by the cost to treat single infected cases with C. sinensis and of cost utility indicated by the cost to avoid per disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) caused by C. sinensis infection was calculated. Comparisons were performed between three treatment schedules, namely individual treatment, massive and selective chemotherapy, in which different endemic levels and populations were considered., Results: In selective chemotherapy strategy, the cost to treat single infected case in very high prevalence group was USD 10.6 in adult male, USD 11.6 in adult female, and USD 13.2 in children. The cost increased followed the decrease of endemic level. In massive chemotherapy strategy, the cost per infected case in very high prevalence group was USD 14.0 in adult male, USD 17.1 in adult female, USD 45.8 in children, which were also increased when the endemic level decreased. In individual treatment strategy, the cost was USD 12.2 in adult male, USD 15.0 in adult female and USD 41.5 in children in very high prevalence group; USD 19.2 in adult male, USD 34.0 in adult female, and USD 90.1 in children in high prevalence group; USD 30.4 in adult male, USD 50.5 in adult female and over USD 100 in children in moderate prevalence group; and over USD 400 in any population in low prevalence group. As to cost utility, the differences by treatment strategies, populations and endemic levels were similar to those in cost effectiveness., Conclusions: Both cost effectiveness and cost utility indicators are highly impacted by the prevalence and population, as well as the treatment schedules. Adults especially men in the areas with a prevalence over 10% should be prioritized, in which selective chemotherapy was best and massive chemotherapy was also cost effective. In moderate endemic areas, the yield is not ideal, but selective chemotherapy for adult male may also be adopted. In low endemic areas, all strategies were high costly and new strategies need to be developed., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Among chronic liver diseases, fatty liver has the highest incidence worldwide. Coexistence of fatty liver and other chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection, is common in clinical practice. The present study was conducted to analyze the prevalence and association of coexisting diseases in patients with fatty liver and to investigate how coexisting diseases contribute to abnormal transaminase and lipid profiles. We enrolled participants who were diagnosed with fatty liver via ultrasound in the physical examination center of West China Hospital. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the adjusted odds ratios (ORs). We found that 23.6% of patients who underwent physical examinations were diagnosed with fatty liver. These patients had higher risks of metabolic syndrome (MetS), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and hypertension and a lower risk of HBV infection. The risks of Hp infection and hyperthyroidism did not statistically differ. When fatty liver coexisted with T2DM, MetS and thyroid dysfunction, it conferred a higher risk of elevated transaminase. Fatty liver was positively correlated with triglycerides, cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and negatively correlated with HBV; thus, HBV had a neutralizing effect on lipid metabolism when coexisting with fatty liver. In conclusion, patients with fatty liver that coexists with T2DM, MetS and thyroid dysfunction are more prone to elevated transaminase levels. Patients with both fatty liver and HBV may experience a neutralizing effect on their lipid metabolism. Thus, lipid alterations should be monitored in these patients during antiviral treatment for HBV., (© 2021 The Author(s).)

Background: The safety and efficacy of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) for the treatment of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) remain uncertain. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to draw a firmer conclusion., Methods: We searched the Cochrane library, PubMed, Embase, and China Biology Medicine disc to identify relevant RCTs performed before January 2020. Risk ratios (RRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using a random effects model., Main Outcome Measures: RRs (95% CI) for 1-, 2-, and 3-month survival rates., Sample Size: Six RCTs, including three open-label studies., Results: The six studies included 246 subjects (121 in a G-CSF group and 125 in a control group). G-CSF administration significantly improved the 1-, 2-, and 3-month survival rates in patients with ACLF. The pooled RRs (95% CI, P) were 0.43 (0.27-0.69, P =.0004), 0.44 (0.32-0.62, P <.00001), and 0.39 (0.22-0.68, P =.0009), respectively., Conclusion: G-CSF may be beneficial and effective in the treatment of ACLF, but further studies are needed to verify this conclusion., Limitations: The sample size was small, and studies were restricted to countries in Asia., Prospero Registration Number: CRD42021225681 CONFLICT OF INTEREST: None.

Background: Physical activity has many health benefits for children and adolescents. However, the prevalence of physical inactivity in school-aged children and adolescents remains high in China. Many factors impact the levels of moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among students. This study investigated the factors associated with students' MVPA levels and the determinants of changes in their MVPA behaviour., Methods: This is a longitudinal study with a 12-month follow-up. The study samples were obtained from 2016 and 2017 Physical Activity and Fitness in China-The Youth Study, and they included 1597 students (aged 9-18 years) from 31 primary, junior high, and high schools in Ningxia Province. Factors related to the individual (Age, Sex, BMI and attitude to PA), school (school exercise facility, PE class, teacher support, PA time and PA environment) and neighbourhood (free skill training, sport events, sport organization, sport facility) factors were measured via questionnaire at baseline and after 12 months. Multiple logistic regression was performed to examine the factors that impact students' MVPA level and the determinants of changes in students' MVPA behaviour., Results: There was no difference in students' MVPA levels between 2016 and 2017. Boys were more physically active than girls at baseline (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.10, 2.20). Neighbourhood factors associated students' MVPA levels were significant, but all of these factors (neighbourhood sport events, organizations, facilities, etc.) were removed from the longitudinal model. Individual and school factors were important for students' MVPA maintenance and positive development (e.g., gender, attitude, school PE class and PA time)., Conclusions: In conclusion, both neighbourhood and school factors may affect students' MVPA, but school appears to plays a more critical role in maintaining and promoting students' MVPA levels. In addition, individual factors may be more important than school and neighbourhood factors in influencing students' MVPA levels. Our research demonstrates that students' attitudes towards PA and school factors should be considered targets for future intervention programmes to promote MVPA. More education programmes may help enhance students' attitudes towards PA, but more studies with large samples and objective assessments are needed to explore the determinants of MVPA.

Aim: To describe the clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with the progression of COVID-19 in elderly diabetes patients., Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study, including elderly COVID-19 patients admitted to Wuhan Huoshenshan Hospital between February 10 and 13, 2020. Demographic data, medical history, signs and symptoms, and laboratory parameters were collected and analysed., Results: We included 131 elderly COVID-19 patients (50 patients with diabetes). COVID-19 diabetes patients experienced more severe pneumonia and abnormal organ functions than non-diabetes patients (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Most function indicators were significantly different between the mild to moderate and severely ill groups in diabetes patients (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Python analysis confirmed diabetes was the independent risk factor of COVID-19 progression in elderly patients. All blood glucose (BG) indices went into the risk factor equation. The cut-off values of COVID-19 progression were BG value on admission > 8.0 mmol/L or maximum BG value > 12.0 mmol/L in all elderly patients, and BG value on admission > 5.1 mmol/L or maximum BG value > 5.4 mmol/L in non-diabetes patients., Conclusions: Diabetes is an independent important risk factor, and glucose levels associate closely with COVID-19 progression in elderly patients., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Four new species of the genus Psychomyia from China are described, illustrated and diagnosed: P. complexa n. sp. (Zhe-jiang), P. conoidea n. sp. (Zhe-jiang), P. obtorta n. sp. (Jiang-xi), and P. tripetala n. sp. (Jiang-xi). Two known species, P. martynovi Hwang 1957 and P. extensa Li, Sun Yang 1999 are re-described and re-illustrated, with new distributional data.

Objectives: Although COVID-19 is known to be caused by human-to-human transmission, it remains largely unclear whether ambient air pollutants and meteorological parameters could promote its transmission., Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to study whether air quality index (AQI), four ambient air pollutants (PM 2.5 , PM 10 , NO 2 and CO) and five meteorological variables (daily temperature, highest temperature, lowest temperature, temperature difference and sunshine duration) could increase COVID-19 incidence in Wuhan and XiaoGan between Jan 26th to Feb 29th in 2020., Results: First, a significant correlation was found between COVID-19 incidence and AQI in both Wuhan (R 2 =0.13, p<0.05) and XiaoGan (R 2 =0.223, p<0.01). Specifically, among four pollutants, COVID-19 incidence was prominently correlated with PM 2.5 and NO 2 in both cities. In Wuhan, the tightest correlation was observed between NO 2 and COVID-19 incidence (R 2 =0.329, p<0.01). In XiaoGan, in addition to the PM 2.5 (R 2 =0.117, p<0.01) and NO 2 (R 2 =0.015, p<0.05), a notable correlation was also observed between the PM 10 and COVID-19 incidence (R 2 =0.105, p<0.05). Moreover, temperature is the only meteorological parameter that constantly correlated well with COVID-19 incidence in both Wuhan and XiaoGan, but in an inverse correlation (p<0.05)., Conclusions: AQI, PM 2.5 , NO 2 , and temperature are four variables that could promote the sustained transmission of COVID-19., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Adults and larvae of the family Philopotamidae from Zhejiang Province, China, were examined and mtCOI gene sequences were extracted and analyzed, males and larvae of 3 species were successfully associated. The larvae of Chimarra sadayu Malicky 1993, Dolophilodes bellatula Sun Malicky 2002, Wormaldia unispina Sun 1998 are described in detail and their diagnostic photographs and illustrations are presented. Diagnostic characters for genera and species are discussed.

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STHs) have been widely transmitted in China and the control of STHs was initiated by NIPD-CTDR since its foundation. Three national surveys on STHs have been carried out in China, and the infection rate has dropped from 53.58% in the first national survey (1988-92) to 4.49% in the third national survey (2014-16) due to strong interventions including mass drug administration, health education and environment improvement. National surveillance of STHs started in 2006 and has been implemented successively until now, which allows to understand the endemic status and trends of STHs prevalence in China. Surveillance has been expanded to 30 provinces of China since 2016. Integrated pilot programmes have been implemented between 2006 and 2009, in which an integrated strategy, with health education and control of infection sources as key components, was adopted. Since 2019, new control pilots have been started, which will be continued for five successive years to further explore appropriate control strategies in the current "new era". With the decline of infection rate of STHs, China is approaching the elimination stage for STHs. In order to achieve this final target, poverty alleviation programmes should be integrated with precise control measures, according to real situations., Competing Interests: Competing interests The authors declare that they do not have competing interests., (© 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Clonorchiasis is caused by ingestion of raw freshwater fish containing infective larvae of Clonorchis sinensis. China harbours the largest number of people with C. sinensis infection. During the past three decades, the National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, affiliated to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NIPD) conducted many studies to facilitate the control on clonorchiasis. Three national surveys have shown the updated epidemiology of clonorchiasis in China. Recently, a national surveillance system has also been established, which will enable the production of high-resolution map. The evaluation of the disease burden has enhanced the awareness on clonorchiasis. Diverse diagnosis techniques including rapid screening by questionnaire, serological tests, faecal examination and a molecular method have been developed or evaluated. The NIPD also participated in the early evaluation of praziquantel against clonorchiasis, which enhanced its application in China. Also, the NIPD has verified the efficacy of tribendimidine against clonorchiasis. A new sustainable strategy is also being explored. However, more research is expected to further facilitate control of clonorchiasis in China, as well as international cooperation in fighting human liver fluke infections in Asia., (© 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

We investigated the community structure of ground-active arthropods as well as vegetation and soil properties in Caragana shrub plantations under grazing and exclosure management across spring, summer and autumn in Yanchi County of Ningxia in northern China. The aim of this study was to uncover the responses of ground-active arthropods in shrub plantations to grazing management in desertified regions. The results showed that: 1) plant height, soil fine sand content, and soil electrical conductivity were significantly lower, whereas soil bulk density and coarse sand were significantly higher in shrub plantations under grazing than exclosure. 2) There were 40 families from 13 orders captured. The dominant groups included Formicidae and Tenebrionidae families, which comprised 68.75% of the total individuals. There were four common groups occupying 20.82% of the total individuals. The remaining 34 groups were relatively rare, only accounting for 10.44% of the total. Across the three seasons, the composition of ground-active arthropod community was significantly different between grazing and exclosure, which indicates the sensitivity and adaptability of ground-active arthropods to environmental changes including grazing management and seasonal changes. 3) There was a significant effect of grazing on total abundance of ground-active arthropods in shrub plantations, with significantly higher values under grazing than under exclosure. There was no significant effect of grazing management on group richness and diversity of ground-active arthropods in shrub plantations. 4) There was a correlation of total abundance, evenness index and the Simpson index with plant abundance, vegetation height, soil moisture, soil pH and electrical conductivity. There was a significant correlation of the Shannon index with vegetation height, soil moisture and soil fine sand. Plant density, and soil pH, soil moisture and soil temperature were the key factors driving the structure of ground-active arthropod communities in shrub plantations under gra-zing management across seasons based on the partial RDA results. It was concluded that the variations of plant height, soil pH, soil moisture and soil temperature under grazing management could result in different ground-active arthropod taxon to changing habitats. The conservation effect of shrub on ground-active arthropod could reduce the negative impacts of grazing. Spring grazing could enhance ground-active arthropod abundances in shrub plantations. It was necessary to pay attention to prevention of insects which are caused by spring grazing in shrub plantations.

Background: We examined the correlations between living arrangement and the physical activity (PA) levels of youth aged 9-19 years while accounting for demographic factors such as age, sex, and socioeconomic status in Shanghai, China., Methods: Cross-sectional analyses of data from the 2014 Physical Activity and Fitness in Shanghai China-The Youth Study was conducted. Participants were 33,213 primary (9-11-year-olds; n = 13,237), junior middle (12-14-year-olds; n = 11,157), and junior high school students (15-19-year-olds; n = 8819). Youth (boys = 49%) and their guardians were randomly sampled from 17 districts in Shanghai, China. Youths' moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) levels, information about living arrangement, and guardians' sociodemographic factors were collected via questionnaires., Results: Only 17.8% of school-aged youths in Shanghai met MVPA recommendations, with significantly more boys (20.6%) meeting recommendations than girls (p < .001). Youths living in rural areas showed an overall significantly higher percentage of meeting MVPA recommendations (20.3%) than those living in urban areas (p < .001). Youths who lived with single parents showed an overall significantly lower percentage of meeting MVPA recommendations (15.3%) than those living with their grandparent(s) or with both parents (p < .001). A logistic regression analysis revealed that, among 9-11-year-olds, children who live with their grandparent(s) were less likely to meet MVPA recommendations than those who lived with both parents (boys: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.61-0.84; girls: aOR = 0.84, 95%CI = 0.72-0.98)., Conclusions: Type of living arrangement was associated with the PA of youth in Shanghai, with no significant gender difference. Youth aged 9-19 years who lived with single parents had the lowest percentage of meeting MVPA recommendations. The probability of achieving 60 min/day MVPA recommendations was significantly lower among 9-11-year-old children living with their grandparent(s) than children living with both parents; however, no such difference was observed among adolescents. Our findings suggest that living arrangement may be an important consideration for promotion of PA among youth in China.