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Background: Medical disputes, which are prevalent in China, are a growing global public health problem. The Chinese government has proposed third-party mediation (TPM) to resolve this issue. However, the characteristics, efficiency, and influencing factors of TPM in resolving medical disputes in public hospitals in China have yet to be determined. Methods: We conducted a systematic study using TPM records from medical disputes in Gansu Province in China from 2014 to 2019. A χ2 test was used to compare differences between groups, and binary logistic analysis was performed to determine the factors influencing the choice of TPM for resolving medical disputes. Results: We analyzed 5,948 TPM records of medical disputes in Gansu Province in China. The number of medical disputes and the amount of compensation awarded in public hospitals in the Gansu Province increased annually from 2014 to 2019, with most of the disputes occurring in secondary and tertiary hospitals. Approximately 89.01% of the medical disputes were handled by TPM; the average compensation amount with TPM was Chinese Yuan (CNY) 48,688.73, significantly less than that awarded via court judgment and judicial mediation. TPM was more likely to succeed in settling medical disputes in the < CNY10,000 compensation group than in the no-compensation group (odds ratio [OR] = 3.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53–6.45). However, as the compensation amount increased, the likelihood of choosing TPM decreased significantly. Moreover, TPM was less likely to be chosen when medical disputes did not involve death (OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.36–0.45) or when no-fault liability was determined (vs. medical accidents; OR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.20–0.67). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that TPM mechanisms play a positive role in efficiently reducing compensation amounts and increasing medical dispute resolution rates which was the main settlement method in resolving medical disputes in public hospitals of Gansu Province in China. TPM could help greatly reduce conflicts between doctors and patients, avoid litigation, and save time and costs for both parties. Moreover, compensation amounts, non-fatal outcomes, and no-fault liability determinations influence the choice of TPM for settling medical disputes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cancer seriously endangers human health and represents a global public health issue. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a distressing and persistent sense of exhaustion caused by cancer or cancer treatment, widely prevalent among cancer patients. This study aims to summarize emerging trends and provide directions for future research of CRF through bibliometric and visualization analyses. Methods: A systematic search in the Web of Science Core Collection database from 2001-01-01 to 2023-05-18 were conducted. Only reviews and articles written in English were considered. CiteSpace and the R were used for bibliometric and visualization analyses. Results: The analysis revealed that 2,566 studies on CRF have been published by 1,041 institutions in 70 countries so far. The number of articles published and cited annually have been steadily increasing. Eduardo Bruera published the most articles, and Julienne E Bower is the most co-cited author. The University of Texas System is the leading institution in cancer-related fatigue research. The United States and China have the largest number of publications. Supportive Care in Cancer published the most articles, and Journal of Clinical Oncology is the most co-cited journal. "Comparison of Pharmaceutical, Psychological, and Exercise Treatments for Cancer-Related Fatigue: A Meta-analysis", authored by Mustian KM et al. and published in JAMA Oncology was the most co-cited document. Keyword analysis indicated that research focus had shifted from "epoetin alpha" and "anemia" to "risk factors", "systematic review", "acupuncture", "anxiety", "traditional Chinese medicine" and "guidelines". Conclusion: In conclusion, this analysis provides comprehensive research trends and knowledge network maps of CRF. Clinical physicians should concurrently focus on the anemia, insomnia, anxiety, and depression status of patients when assessing or managing CRF. Improvements in related risk factors also contribute to alleviating fatigue. Furthermore, it is essential to pay attention to authoritative CRF guidelines. Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine also have therapeutic potential, which merits further investigation. Researchers should draw attention to the crucial roles of inflammation, hypoxia, and mitochondrial dysfunction, which could be the frontiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To explore the demographic and clinical features of current depressive episode that discriminate patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) from those with bipolar I (BP-I) and bipolar II (BP-II) disorder who were misdiagnosed as having MDD. Methods: The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) assessment was performed to establish DSM-IV diagnoses of MDD, and BP-I and BP-II, previously being misdiagnosed as MDD. Demographics, depressive symptoms and psychiatric comorbidities were compared between 1463 patients with BP-I, BP-II and MDD from 8 psychiatric settings in mainland China. A multinomial logistic regression model was performed to assess clinical correlates of diagnoses. Results: A total of 14.5% of the enrolled patients initially diagnosed with MDD were eventually diagnosed with BP. Broad illness characteristics including younger age, higher prevalence of recurrence, concurrent dysthymia, suicidal attempts, agitation, psychotic features and psychiatric comorbidities, as well as lower prevalence of insomnia, weight loss and somatic symptoms were featured by patients with BP-I and/or BP-I, compared to those with MDD. Comparisons between BP-I and BP-II versus MDD indicated distinct symptom profiles and comorbidity patterns with more differences being observed between BP-II and MDD, than between BP-I and MDD. Conclusion: The results provide evidence of clinically distinguishing characteristics between misdiagnosed BP-I and BP- II versus MDD. The findings have implications for guiding more accurate diagnoses of bipolar disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the contents of different kinds of low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) in reclaimed soil filled with fly ash in the Huainan mining area in China using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Using a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% phosphoric acid and acetonitrile in a volume ratio of 98:2, the detection was performed at a wavelength of 210 nm for 15 min. In addition, a cluster analysis was performed on the detected LMWOAs in the reclaimed soil. The correlations between the LMWOA and nutrient contents in the reclaimed soil were also analyzed. In total, eight and seven LMWOAs were detected in the reclaimed soil and filled fly ash, respectively. In contrast, no LMWOAs were detected in the fresh fly ash from a thermal power plant. The order of total LMWOA contents at different sampling points followed the order of farmland control soil > 1# (Triticum aestivum) > 4# (Phragmites australis) > 5# (Vigna radiata) > 2# (Sorghum bicolor) > 3# (Tamarix ramosissima) > fly ash-filled soil. The farmland control soil and fly ash-filled soil exhibited the highest and lowest LMWOA contents of 648.22 and 85.09 μg·g−1, respectively. The LMWOA contents in the reclaimed soil followed the order of oxalic acid > tartaric acid > malonic acid > lactic acid > acetic acid > citric acid > propionic acid > succinic acid. Indeed, oxalic acids exhibited the highest total amount of 1445.79 μg·g−1 and succinic acids exhibited the lowest total amount of 6.50 μg·g−1. The LMWOA contents in the reclaimed soil decreased with increasing soil depth, showing statistically significant differences between the 0–10 and 10–40 cm soil layers (p < 0.05). According to the obtained clustering results, the detected LMWOAs can be divided into two categories. The first category consisted of oxalic acid, while the second category included the remaining LMWOAs. The soil LMWOA contents of 4# (Phragmites australis) and 5# (Vigna radiata) were significantly different from those at the other sampling points. According to the Pearson correlation analysis results, the occurrence and characteristics of the soil LMWOAs can be controlled by regulating the pH values and available nutrient contents in the soil, thereby improving the eco-environmental conditions of the reclaimed rhizosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice production is sensitive to climate change and significantly affected by warming in recent years. To what extent climate warming shifted rice phenology and varied thermal resource condition were explored across five agro-ecological zones in China, based on up-to-date observations of meteorology and rice cultivation in 1981–2020. It was clearly signaled that there was a general advance of 0.3–3.8 days in observed sowing date and a delay of 0.4–3.5 days in observed maturity date in 2001–2020 relative to 1981–2000 in major zones. A vacant time slice of 2.6–28.8 days between observed sowing date and potential sowing date, and a lag of 15.4–56.7 days in potential maturity date compared to observed maturity date were identified in 2001–2020. Within longer growing season, useful accumulated temperature increased by 76.7–117.6 °C·d in 2001–2020 relative to 1981–2000, while disactive accumulated temperature also increased. In Northeast China, actual rice cultivation was undergoing earlier sowing date than potential sowing date and longer growing duration than potential duration, yet leading to upward disactive accumulated temperature. The decrease in the thermal resource utilization in 2001–2020 relative to 1981–2000 was highlighted at 55.3–78.3% stations in major zones, with a decrement of 0.006–0.018 in average magnitude. The changes in thermal resource utilization unveiled that the shifts in actual rice cultivation still could not compensate for the suitability in thermal resource utilization benefited from climate warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we address an important and increasingly relevant topic in mining safety and efficiency, namely the stability of open-pit bench slopes subjected to daily heavy truck cyclic loading. Specifically, we focus on the stability of Zhahanur open-pit slope (Inner Mongolia region, China) and investigate the potential role of daily heavy truck cyclic loading in bench slope instability. To this end, we incorporate a stress corrosion model into the particle flow code to develop a time-dependent deformation model of the rock. With the established model, we quantitatively analyse the effect of heavy truck cyclic loading on the bench slope stability. Our results support the hypothesis that daily heavy truck loading can cause gradual downward deformation of a rock mass, leading to slope instability. To validate our numerical modelling results, we compare and analyse them with in situ monitoring data. Our study demonstrates the significant impact of daily heavy vehicles on bench slope stability in open-pit mines and provides a practical tool for assessing the long-term stability of open-pit bench slopes and optimising mining operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An essential intervention for patients with end‐stage renal disease is kidney transplantation. Nonetheless, patient outcomes are substantially affected by complications associated with postoperative wounds. The purpose of this research was to determine the prevalence, risk factors and repercussions of wound‐related complications among kidney transplant recipients. A cross‐sectional observational study was undertaken at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University Department of Organ Transplantation, China. Included in the study were 118 patients who had undergone kidney transplantation during the specified time period. Medical record evaluations, questionnaires and patient interviews were utilized to collect data, with an emphasis on demographics, transplant information, postoperative care and wound complications. Infection, dehiscence, lymphocoele, delayed wound healing, seroma formation and haematoma were classified as complications. The presence of comorbidities, age over 50 and living donor transplants were identified as significant risk factors for postoperative complications. The most prevalent complications observed were delayed wound healing (21.2%) and infections (16.9%) (p < 0.05). Antibiotics were found to be effective in managing infections, while prolonged conservative management was necessary for delayed wound healing. Prominent complications that recurred were infections and wound healing delays. No statistically significant correlation was observed between gender, BMI and prior transplants with the occurrence of complications (p > 0.05). The research highlighted the significance of taking into account patient‐specific variables, including age and concurrent medical conditions, when conducting post‐kidney transplantation treatment. The results supported the use of individualized strategies in postoperative care, particularly for populations at high risk, in order to reduce the incidence and severity of complications associated with wounds in pursuit to enhancing clinical practices and formulating focused intervention strategies to improve patient outcomes following transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose of pepper is a significant disease caused by Colletotrichum spp. In 2017 and 2021, 296 isolates were obtained from 69 disease samples. Through morphological analysis, pathogenicity detection, and polygenic phylogenetic analysis, the above strains were attributed to 10 species: C. scovillei, C. fructicola, C. karstii, C. truncatum, C. gloeosporioides, C. kahawae, C. boninense, C. nymphaeae, C. plurivorum, and C. nigrum. C. scovillei had the most strains (150), accounting for 51.02% of the total isolates; C. fructicola came in second (72 isolates), accounting for 24.49%. Regarding regional distribution, Zunyi City has the highest concentration of strains—92 strains total, or 34.18%—across seven species. Notably, this investigation showed that C. nymphaeae infected pepper fruit for the first time in China. Genetic diversity analysis showed that C. fructicola could be divided into seven haplotypes, and the population in each region had apparent genetic differentiation. However, the genetic distance between each population was not significantly related to geographical distance. Neutral detection and nucleotide mismatch analysis showed that C. fructicola might have undergone population expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant public health concern, particularly in China. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) can provide abundant pathological information regarding etiology and could include candidate biomarkers for diagnosis of TB. However, data regarding lncRNA expression profiles and specific lncRNAs associated with TB are limited. Methods: We performed ceRNA-microarray analysis to determine the expression profile of lncRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was then conducted to identify the critical module and genes associated with TB. Other bioinformatics analyses, including Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Gene Ontology (GO), and co-expression networks, were conducted to explore the function of the critical module. Finally, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to validate the candidate biomarkers, and receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to assess the diagnostic performance of the candidate biomarkers. Results: Based on 8 TB patients and 9 healthy controls (HCs), a total of 1,372 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified, including 738 upregulated lncRNAs and 634 downregulated lncRNAs. Among all lncRNAs and mRNAs in the microarray, the top 25% lncRNAs (3729) and top 25% mRNAs (2824), which exhibited higher median expression values, were incorporated into the WGCNA. The analysis generated 16 co-expression modules, among which the blue module was highly correlated with TB. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the blue module was significantly enriched in infection and immunity. Subsequently, considering module membership values (>0.85), gene significance values (>0.90) and fold-change value (>2 or < 0.5) as selection criteria, the top 10 upregulated lncRNAs and top 10 downregulated lncRNAs in the blue module were considered as potential biomarkers. The candidates were then validated in an independent validation sample set (31 TB patients and 32 HCs). The expression levels of 8 candidates differed significantly between TB patients and HCs. The lncRNAs ABHD17B (area under the curve [AUC] = 1.000) and ENST00000607464.1 (AUC = 1.000) were the best lncRNAs in distinguishing TB patients from HCs. Conclusion: This study characterized the lncRNA profiles of TB patients and identified a significant module associated with TB as well as novel potential biomarkers for TB diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Southwest China is one of the three largest continuous karst clusters in the world; therefore, studies on karst rocky desertification in this area are very important. For more than 20 years' control, the decreasing area and risk of karst rocky desertification has contributed to the continuous ecological improvement. Nowadays, studies on rocky desertification mainly focus on the eight provinces in Southwest China, which have been designated as rocky desertification monitoring areas by the Chinese government. After the first phase of the comprehensive control project for karst rocky desertification in 2016, the expansion trend of rocky desertification in the southwest region was effectively curbed. Subsequent articles published tend to focus on analyzing the current situation, comprehensive management, or species adaptability of rocky desertification monitoring areas. However, the Qinba region in Shaanxi Province is located outside the monitoring area. In the process of studying the karst geological relics of the Zhenba Sanyuan Tiankeng Group, signs of rocky desertification have been found, but there still exists a research gap in the investigation and research on karst rocky desertification in this area which is one of the areas with the richest biodiversity in China, known as "ecological lung", "central water tower" and "biological gene bank". Unfortunately, this area is burdened with poverty, so the investigation and study of karst rocky desertification in the Qinba region of Shaanxi Province is of great significance to ensure green and high-quality development and ecological civilization construction. In this paper, by analyzing the current situation of karst rocky desertification in Southwest China, we summarized its harm to the ecological environment and social economy, clarify natural and human factors resulting in rocky desertification, and integrate the typical treatment experience in Southwest China. We also introduce three technical methods, including remote sensing interpretation, UAV remote sensing survey and analysis of carbonate dissolution rate, to provide a scientific basis for studies on karst rocky desertification in the Qinba region of Shaanxi Province. Study results show that the area of karst rocky desertification in the Qinba region covers 63.37 km², and the areas of severe, moderate and mild rocky desertification cover 17.97 km², 21.60 km² and 23.80 km², respectively. Based on the survey results, there are both regional differences and some similarities in distribution patterns in the areas of rocky desertification development. Specifically, the degree of rocky desertification in the limestone area is more severe than that in the dolomite area. It is also more severe in the area with developed water system than that in the arid and semi-arid area, and the more active the new structure is, the more severe the rocky desertification is. Compared to the Southwest China, the degree of karst rocky desertification in the Qinba region of Shaanxi Province is relatively light, with a smaller distribution area, mainly due to the less rainfall in the study area. The karst rocky desertification in Beiyang mountain of Zhen'an county is the most severe, with an area of 7.28 km². In the 1960s, a large-scale free-range of livestock severely damaged vegetation. The indiscriminate deforestation by humans further exacerbated the process of rocky desertification. The rocky desertification in Hailuogong village of Shanyang county is also severe, covering an area of 5.83 km², because the landform in this area is a typical peak-cluster depression, which is likely developed into rocky desertification. The contradiction between people and land needs to be solved urgently. In conclusion, more monitoring and research efforts are needed in Beiyang mountain and Hailuogong where the rocky desertification is severe. Firstly, we should clarify the causes of rocky desertification in the Qinba region and compare them with the causes in Southwest China to determine whether the rocky desertification is mainly resulted from natural factors or human factors. Secondly, we should know how to clarify the causes of karst rocky desertification in the Qinba region; for example, we can dynamically monitor the change of rock desertification by field verification, remote sensing interpretation, climate change analysis, etc. We can also calculate the contribution rate of each influence factor by geographical detector model. Thirdly, we should further study influence factors of karst dissolution rate. We can monitor physical and chemical properties of soil (soil moisture, carbon dioxide concentration, pH, organic matter content and porosity) in areas with moderate to severe rocky desertification, and analyze the relationship between dissolution rate and physical and chemical properties of soil in rocky desertification areas. Finally, in order to provide basic data for carbon neutrality research in Shaanxi, we should conduct studies on the carbon sink of rocky desertification areas in the Qinba region, with the methods such as dissolution test pieces and hydrochemical runoff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to explore gender differences in associations between cognitive symptoms and suicidal ideation (SI) among patients with recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD). Methods: We recruited 1222 patients with recurrent MDD from the National Survey on Symptomatology of Depression (NSSD), a survey designed to investigate the symptoms experienced during current major depressive episodes in China. A four-point Likert questionnaire was used to assess the frequency of cognitive symptoms and SI in the past two weeks. Results: Gender differences in clinical features and cognitive symptoms of participants with recurrent MDD were found. Specifically, male patients had a higher prevalence of memory loss, decreased verbal output, indecisiveness, and impaired interpersonal relationships, while female patients exhibited a higher prevalence of impaired social and occupational functioning (all P < 0.05). No significant difference in SI prevalence was found between male and female patients. The logistic regression analysis revealed that in male patients, SI was associated with indecisiveness and impaired interpersonal relationships. In female patients, reduced verbal output and impaired social and professional functions were also associated with SI in addition to the above-mentioned variables. Conclusion: The findings of gender differences in associations between cognitive symptoms and SI highlight the need to carefully assess gender-specific cognitive predictors of SI in patients with recurrent MDD. This has further implications for more targeted prevention and treatment strategies for SI based on gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wetlands are ecologically and socioeconomically crucial areas. The application of economic valuation methods could ensure the sustainable utilization of wetlands. Utilizing wetland survey data from Jilin Province, China, representative of the years 2013 and 2017, we assessed the market value of water obtained from wetlands. Simultaneously, we employed the PLUS model to predict changes in wetland areas of different types over the next decade and analyzed their impact on the value of freshwater resource supplies. The results indicate the following points: (1) the area of wetlands decreased from 10,852.84 km2 in 2013 to 10,794.46 km2 in 2017 and that, in 2027, this was projected to further decrease to 10,614.37 km2, with river wetlands experiencing the most substantial decline; (2) the freshwater volumes in 2013 and 2017 were 20.81 × 108 and 20.09 × 108 m3, respectively, representing a 3.58% decrease. The volume for 2027 was projected to further reduce to 19.74 × 108 m3, with lake wetlands contributing the most to water resources and marsh wetlands contributing the least; and (3) the obtained total value of freshwater continuously increased, rising from CNY 8.384 billion in 2013 to CNY 8.642 billion in 2017, and this was projected to further increase to CNY 9.101 billion in 2027. There was regional variation in the value of wetland freshwater resource supplies, with differences in the per unit area and per capita value among administrative units. These findings can facilitate the optimal allocation of freshwater resources in Jilin Province, promoting its sustainable development while ensuring wetland conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nurses face substantial career challenges arising from global pandemics, economic crises, and their roles in conflict-ridden areas. In this context, the rights of nurses pertaining to decent work, such as freedom, fairness, safety, and dignity, are not adequately safeguarded. This study examines decent work status among Chinese nurses and its links to demographics, work engagement, and turnover intention. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used following STROBE guidelines. Through a convenient sampling method, a total of 476 nurses were surveyed. These participants were drawn from three esteemed tertiary Grade A hospitals in Hangzhou, with data collection spanning from June to August in 2023. We used a comprehensive set of assessment instruments, encompassing an evaluation of demographic characteristics, the Decent Work Perceptions Scale (DWPS), the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UEWS), and turnover intention questionnaire. Bootstrapping procedures were used to ensure the robustness and reliability of the model. Results: The study revealed that nurses' perceptions of decent work significantly impacted work engagement (β = 0.603, p < 0.001) and turnover intention (β = -0.275, p < 0.001). Work engagement operated as a mediator between decent work and turnover intention, decreasing the likelihood of nurses leaving their positions (β = -0.062, p < 0.001). Factors such as age, years of working experience, professional title, job category, and attendance at professional conferences significantly influenced nurses' perceptions of decent work (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study examines factors affecting decent work among nurses and explores its connection with work engagement and the intention to leave. Despite limitations (sample, social desirability bias), the study offers valuable insights for nursing practice. This suggests managers improve decent work for young nurses through rational shift schedules and continuous education. Policymakers should consider adjusting nursing policies for better employment conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, blast furnace (BF) ironmaking is still the main process for producing hot metal in China and around the world. Under the constraint of the global goal of "double carbon", it is urgent to carry out hydrogen metallurgical innovation for the existing BF ironmaking process with higher carbon emissions. In recent years, BF technology with hydrogen enrichment and pure oxygen has made some progress, effectively reducing carbon emissions of hot metal per tons, but it is still unable to break through the technical bottleneck of emission reduction of more than 30%. In view of this, the authors put forward an ironmaking technology of a reduction smelting furnace (RSF) that is hydrogen-rich and utilizes pure oxygen and carbon recycle (Hy-O-CR), which breaks through the technical defect of traditional BF emission reduction of less than 30% by reshaping the furnace. Firstly, the construction process of the mass and energy balance model for two main unit modules in the new process (RSF with Hy-O-CR and top gas cycle) is introduced, and then the parameter optimization under specific scenario conditions is analyzed, and the influence mechanism of several key variables on the parameters in the furnace is obtained. Finally, the emission of CO2 in the whole process is explored in the case of two typical operating parameters. The results show that after using CCUS technology, the minimum value of direct CO2 emission is 215.93 kg/tHM, which is as high as 84.58% compared with the traditional BF process. Even if the removed CO2 is counted in carbon emissions, the minimum value of direct or indirect carbon emissions is 729.85 kg/tHM, and the proportion of emission reduction can reach 47.87%. The research results show that the reconstruction of Hy-O-CR technology can change the ratio of direct reduction and indirect reduction, which greatly breaks through the emission limit of the traditional BF and provides a new reference for hydrogen metallurgy technology and a basis for further study of the optimization of RSF size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is attracting more and more attention worldwide due to their tasty and nutritious fruit with extremely high contents of vitamin C (Vc) and soluble sugar. In order to find out the main factors that influence jujube growth and reproductive adaptability, the phenological periods, vegetative growths, fruiting abilities, and fruit qualities of eight newly released cultivars were compared and comprehensively analyzed in three representative ecological sites of the three main jujube-producing regions including Fuping (Hebei), Taigu (Shanxi), and Alar (Xinjiang) in China. Our results showed that the characteristics of jujube cultivars were significantly affected by soil and meteorological factors. The fruit number per bearing shoot was much more affected by temperature, light, and rainfall. The fruit number per bearing shoot, contents of soluble solids, and soluble sugar and Vc contents in fruits were influenced more by meteorological factors. The content of flavonoids was affected by both soil and meteorological factors. A principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that cultivars suitable for planting in Fuping (Hebei) were Yuhong and Lengbaiyu. Zaocuimi, Fucuimi, and Zaoqiuhong were suitable to be cultivated in Taigu (Shanxi), while Zaocuimi, Yuhong, Yulu, Luzao 2, and Yueguang behaved better in Alar (Xinjiang). This study provides insights of the environmental factors on jujube yield and quality and therefore provides references for highly efficient jujube cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Screening for Tuberculosis (TB) is a critical tactic for minimizing the prevalence of illness within schools. Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT), in turn, effectively staves off the development of TB from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). Unfortunately, there is limited research on LTBI and TPT among students. This study aimed to assess LTBI among freshmen in Changping District and advocate for the implementation of TPT. Methods: The prospective study collected data from 12 educational institutions within the Changping District of Beijing. The Kolmogorov − Smirnov test and other statistical methods were used for statistical analysis, x 2 was obtained using the formula x 2 = nΣA2/nRnC-1, df = (C-1) (R-1). We analyzed potential factors impacting the LTBI rate, and scrutinized the possible causes behind the low application of TPT and its efficacy for LTBI treatment, China. Results: Among 19,872 freshmen included in this study, 18 active TB cases (91 per 10,0000) and 2236 LTBI cases (11.6% of 19,223) were identified, respectively. Furthermore, of those with LTBI, 1045 (5.4% of 19,223) showed a strong positive for purified protein derivative (PPD), but only 312 opted for TB preventive treatment. There appeared to be no significant difference in the prevalence of LTBI and TPT rate between male and female students. Concurrently, 11 (71 per 100,000) and 7 (158 per 100,000) cases of active tuberculosis were identified in 6 universities and 6 higher vocational colleges, respectively. Interestingly, almost all freshmen who underwent TPT came from universities, suggesting a statistically significant disparity in TPT rate (χ2 = 139.829, P < 0.001) between these two types of educational institutions. Meanwhile, as for the age-wise distribution of latent infection among 17–20 years old freshmen, the LTBI rate exhibited 10.5%, 11.6%, 12.1% and 13.5%, respectively. Correlation between LTBI rate, the strong positive rate was statistically significant among different ages (χ2 = 34.559, P < 0.001). Over a follow-up period of 2 years, three students were diagnosed with active tuberculosis, one of which was resistant to rifampicin. All three students manifested a strong positive for PPD and declined preventive treatment during TB screening. Conclusions: The data indicates a high rate of LTBI amongst students in areas with a heavy TB burden, potentially leading to cross-regional TB transmission due to the migration of students. Education level might contribute to the limited uptake of TPT. Therefore, improving the implementation of TB preventive treatments is crucial in controlling and preventing TB across schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Currently, the psychological problems of stroke patients are of great concern. It is a hot topic of clinical care research to analyze and discuss the current status and hot spots, frontiers and development trends of research on psychological distress of stroke patients, and to develop and implement psycho-social care programs to improve the quality of life of patients.However, there is an absence of visual overviews to assess the published literature systematically.Methods: The Web of Science (WOS) database was used to search the relevant literature in this field, spanning the period 2009– 2023, and the countries, institutions, and research keywords in this field were visualized and analyzed by CiteSpace analysis software.Results: An analysis of 416 papers found that the overall trend of psychological distress in stroke patients was increasing, and the research hotspots were mainly focusing on the relationship between different risk factors and psychological distress in stroke patients, psychological distress in stroke caregivers, positive psychology in stroke patients, and interventions on psychological distress in stroke patients. In the future, the research population may gradually shift to stroke caregivers, and the research focus will be on developing and studying scales.Conclusion: Visual analysis of psychological distress studies in stroke patients can provide strategies for clinical interventions and broaden thinking about clinical care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies on cancer of unknown primary (CUP) mainly focus on treatment and prognosis in western populations and lacked clinical evaluation of different IHC markers, so this study aimed to evaluate characteristics of CUP and recommend a diagnostic strategy from a single center in China. Methods and results: Data of 625 patients with CUP were retrospectively collected and reviewed. The patients ranged in age from 20 to 91 years, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.3:1. The predominant histological type was poor or undifferentiated adenocarcinomas (308; 49.3%). The results of Canhelp-Origin molecular testing for the identification of the tissue of origin in 262 of 369 patients (71.0%) were considered predictable (similarity score > 45), with the most common predicted primary tumor site being the breast (57, 21.8%). Unpredictable molecular results correlated with more aggressive clinical parameters and poor survival. Thee positivity rates of several targeted antibodies (GATA3, GCDFP15, TTF1, Napsin A, and PAX8), based on the clinically predicted site, were lower than those reported for the corresponding primary tumors. Nonetheless, TRPS1 and INSM1 were reliable markers of predicted breast carcinoma (75.0%) and neuroendocrine tumors (83.3%), respectively. P16 expression, as well as HPV and EBER testing contributed significantly to the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinomas. Survival analysis revealed that older ages (> 57), ≥ 3 metastatic sites, non-squamous cell carcinomas, bone/liver/lung metastases, unpredictable molecular results, and palliative treatment correlated with poor overall survival. Conclusions: We recommend a CUP diagnostic strategy involving the use of targeted antibody panels as per histological findings that is potentially applicable in clinical practice. The markers TRPS1, INSM1, and P16 expression, as well as HPV and EBER testing are particularly valuable in this aspect. Molecular testing is also predictive of survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although reference ranges of T1 and T2 mapping are well established for cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) at 1.5T, data for 3T are still lacking. The objective of this study is to establish reference ranges of myocardial T1 and T2 based on a large multicenter cohort of healthy Chinese adults at 3T CMR. Methods: A total of 1015 healthy Chinese adults (515 men, age range: 19–87 years) from 11 medical centers who underwent CMR using 3T Siemens scanners were prospectively enrolled. T1 mapping was performed with a motion-corrected modified Look–Locker inversion recovery sequence using a 5(3)3 scheme. T2 mapping images were acquired using T2-prepared fast low-angle shot sequence. T1 and T2 relaxation times were quantified for each slice and each myocardial segment. The T1 mapping and extracellular volume standardization (T1MES) phantom was used for quality assurance at each center prior to subject scanning. Results: The phantom analysis showed strong consistency of spin echo, T1 mapping, and T2 mapping among centers. In the entire cohort, global T1 and T2 reference values were 1193 ± 34 ms and 36 ± 2.5 ms. Global T1 and T2 values were higher in females than in males (T1: 1211 ± 29 ms vs. 1176 ± 30 ms, p < 0.001; T2: 37 ± 2.3 ms vs. 35 ± 2.5 ms, p < 0.001). There were statistical differences in global T2 across age groups (p < 0.001), but not in global T1. Linear regression showed no correlation between age and global T1 or T2 values. In males, positive correlation was found between heart rate and global T1 (r = 0.479, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Using phantom-validated imaging sequences, we provide reference ranges for myocardial T1 and T2 values on 3T scanners in healthy Chinese adults, which can be applied across participating sites. Trial registration URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx. Unique identifier: ChiCTR1900025518. Registration name: 3T magnetic resonance myocardial quantitative imaging standardization and reference value study: a multi-center clinical study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Video-assisted laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) has become the standard treatment option for achalasia. While robotic surgery offering some specific advantages such as better three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic vision, hand-eye consistency, and flexibility and stability with the endowrist is expected to be shorter in learning curve than that of LHM for surgeons who are proficient in LHM. The aim of this study was to describe a single surgeon's experience related to the transition from video-assisted laparoscopic to robotic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study based on the recorded data of the first 66 Heller myotomy performed with laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication (LHMD, 26 cases) and with the robotic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication (RHMD, 40 cases) by the same surgeon in Department of Thoracic Surgery of The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University in China. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were analyzed using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method. Corresponding statistical tests were used to compare outcomes of both serials of cases. Results: The median operation time was shorter in the RHMD group compared to the LHMD group (130 [IQR 123–141] minutes vs. 163 [IQR 153–169]) minutes, p < 0.001). In the RHMD group, one patient (2.5%) experienced mucosal perforation, whereas, in the LHMD group, the incidence of this complication was significantly higher at 19.2% (5 patients) (p = 0.031). Based on cumulative sum analyses, operation time decreased starting with case 20 in the LHMD group and with case 18 in the RHMD group. Intraoperative blood loss tended to decline starting with case 19 in the LHMD group and with case 16 in the RHMD group. Conclusions: Both RHMD and LHMD are effective surgical procedures for symptom relief of achalasia patients. RHMD demonstrates superior outcomes in terms of operation time and mucosal perforation during surgery compared to LHMD. Proficiency with RHMD can be achieved after approximately 16–18 cases, while that of LHMD can be obtained after around 19–20 cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frost stress is a major environmental factor that limits apricot growth in the warm temperate zone (WTZ) of China, and is always triggered by extreme low temperature weather processes. In this study, the characteristics of the apricot frost processes f(D, Tcum), which were identified from historical disaster representation, were analyzed and apricot frost evaluation indicators were developed, thus facilitating the process-based assessment and spatiotemporal analysis of apricot frost processes. Periods of low temperature that persist for 1~2, 3, and ≥4 days (i.e., duration days, D) provide the initial identification indicator for light, moderate, and severe apricot frost. The threshold ranges for Tcum are 0~3.9, 9.2~12.0, and >16.2 for D values of 1~2, 3, and ≥4, respectively. The northwest of the WTZ is dominated by apricot frost, with approximately 80% of apricot frost being light, followed by moderate and severe. Regional apricot frost exhibited a significant decreasing trend over the last four decades. A total of 29.65% of stations, which were mainly located in the northwest and middle parts of the study region, detected an increasing trend in apricot frost. The results provide technical support for targeted apricot frost level detection, and the process-based spatiotemporal characteristics of apricot frost can provide basic information for the prevention and mitigation of apricot frost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A meta‐analysis was performed to comprehensively assess the effects of video‐assisted thoracoscopy on surgical site wound infection and wound pain in patients with lung cancer. Studies on video‐assisted thoracoscopy for lung cancer were collected from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and Wanfang database, from inception to January 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted the data, and evaluated the quality of the included studies according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Thirty‐one articles with a total of 3608 patients were included, with 1809 in the video‐assisted thoracoscopy group and 1799 in the control group. Compared with the control group, video‐assisted thoracoscopy significantly reduced surgical site wound infection (odds ratio: 0.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14–0.33, P <.001) and surgical site wound pain at postoperative day 1 (standardised mean difference [SMD]: −0.90, 95% CI: −1.17 to −0.64, P <.001) and postoperative day 3 (SMD: −1.59, 95% CI: −2.25 to −0.92, P <.001). Thus, these results showed that video‐assisted thoracoscopy may have beneficial outcomes by reducing surgical site wound infection and pain. However, owing to the large variation in sample sizes and some methodological shortcomings, further validation is needed in future studies with higher quality and larger sample sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Begonia species are common shade plants that are mostly found in southwest China. They have not been well studied despite their medicinal and decorative uses because gene penetration, decreased adaptability, and restricted availability are all caused by frequent interspecific hybridization. Result: To understand the patterns of mutation in the chloroplast genomes of different species of Begonia, as well as their evolutionary relationships, we collected seven Begonia species in China and sequenced their chloroplast genomes. Begonia species exhibit a quadripartite structure of chloroplast genomes (157,634 − 169,694 bp), consisting of two pairs of inverted repeats (IR: 26,529 − 37,674 bp), a large single copy (LSC: 75,477 − 86,500 bp), and a small single copy (SSC: 17,861 − 18,367 bp). 128–143 genes (comprising 82–93 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNAs, and 36–43 transfer RNAs) are found in the chloroplast genomes. Based on comparative analyses, this taxon has a relatively similar genome structure. A total of six substantially divergent DNA regions (trnT-UGU-trnL-UAA, atpF-atpH, ycf4-cemA, psbC-trnS-UGA, rpl32-trnL-UAG, and ccsA-ndhD) are found in the seventeen chloroplast genomes. These regions are suitable for species identification and phylogeographic analysis. Phylogenetic analysis shows that Begonia species that were suited to comparable environments grouped in a small clade and that all Begonia species formed one big clade in the phylogenetic tree, supporting the genus' monophyly. In addition, positive selection sites were discovered in eight genes (rpoC1, rpoB, psbE, psbK, petA, rps12, rpl2, and rpl22), the majority of which are involved in protein production and photosynthesis. Conclusion: Using these genome resources, we can resolve deep-level phylogenetic relationships between Begonia species and their families, leading to a better understanding of evolutionary processes. In addition to enhancing species identification and phylogenetic resolution, these results demonstrate the utility of complete chloroplast genomes in phylogenetically and taxonomically challenging plant groupings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global warming continues, heat stress events are expected to increase and negatively affect rice production. Spatiotemporal changes in single-season rice exposure to heat stress were explored along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River (MLRYR) in China during 1971–2020 based on created heat thresholds in different phenological stages, derived from comparison of historical heat records for single-season rice and agro-meteorological data. The feature importance (IF) provided by the Random Forest model was used to modulate the relationship between threshold accumulated temperature and yield reduction rate caused by heat stress. In addition, critical temperature thresholds at different phenological stages were determined by combining Overall Accuracy and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. According to historical disaster records, the heat stress occurred before the reproductive phase (i.e., the tillering–jointing stage) and ended in the filling stage. Critical temperature thresholds of Tmax at tillering–jointing, booting, flowering and filling were quantified as 36, 35, 35 and 38 °C, with higher IF values of 13.14, 10.93, 17.15 and 13.15, respectively. The respective values of Overall Accuracy and the areas under the ROC curve were greater than 0.85 and 0.930, implying that each threshold performed excellently in identifying heat occurrence. Based on the determined critical thresholds, accumulated harmful temperature (Tcum), number of heat days (HD), first heat date (FHD) and last heat date (LHD) were presented to characterize heat exposure. It was clear that Tcum and HD exhibited a north-to-south increasing trend from 1971 to 2020, with the obvious increasing occurrence in most parts of the study region through the period of 2010 to 2020. FHD occurred earlier in most stations except the northeast parts, while LHD ended later in southern MLRYR. Exploring heat critical thresholds at different phenological stages highlighted in this study can help decision-makers monitor and evaluate heat exposure to single-season rice in MLRYR and further develop mitigation strategies to ensure rice production security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin have complex lithologies and pore structures. The oil–water mobility law in reservoirs has not yet been completely determined, restricting the formulation of rational reservoir development methods. To bridge this gap, in this study, we used several test methods, such as casting thin sections, mercury intrusion, and nuclear magnetic resonance, to obtain the pore structure and oil–water displacement characteristics of tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin. The pore structures of the reservoirs could be categorized into three types: microfractures + dissolved pores + micropores (MFD), microfractures + micropores (MF), and matrix (M). The characteristics of single‐phase oil seepage and water flooding in reservoirs with various pore structures differed evidently. For the MF‐ and M‐types, the water‐locking effect caused by the strong capillary force affected oil charging in the micropores. The effect of the pressure drop on the MFD‐type algal limestone was less than that on the MF‐type limestone (dolomite) because of the occurrence of a non‐Darcy flow. The MFD‐type, which contained microfractures, had preferential seepage channels, resulting in obvious fluid channeling and low water displacement efficiency. Oil−water displacement mainly occurred in the dissolved pores and microfractures, suggesting that starting oil accumulation in the micropores was crucial. This study will assist in efficient development of tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plant organs grow in a certain direction and organ twisted growth, a rare and distinctive trait, is associated with internal structure changes and special genes. The twisted branch mutant of Chinese jujube jujube, an important fruit tree native to China and introduced to nearly 50 countries, provides new typical materials for exploration of plant twisted growth. Results: In this study, the cytological characteristics and related genes of twisted branches in Chinese jujube were revealed by microscopy observation and transcriptome analysis. The unique coexistence of primary and secondary structures appeared in the twisted parts of branches, and special structures such as collateral bundle, cortical bundles, and internal phloem were formed. Ninety differentially expressed genes of 'Dongzao' and its twisted mutant were observed, in which ZjTBL43, ZjFLA11, ZjFLA12 and ZjIQD1 were selected as candidate genes. ZjTBL43 was homologous to AtTBL43 in Arabidopsis, which was involved in the synthesis and deposition of cellular secondary wall cellulose. The attbl43 mutant showed significant inflorescence stem bending growth. The transgenic lines of attbl43 with overexpression of ZjTBL43 were phenotypically normal.The branch twisted growth may be caused by mutations in ZjTBL43 in Chinese jujube. AtIQD10, AtFLA11 and AtFLA12 were homologous to ZjIQD1, ZjFLA11 and ZjFLA12, respectively. However, the phenotype of their function defect mutants was normal. Conclusion: In summary, these findings will provide new insights into the plant organ twisted growth and a reference for investigation of controlling mechanisms of plant growth direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the field of spinal cord injury (SCI) have garnered significant attention for their potential applications in diagnosis and therapy. However, no bibliometric assessment has been conducted to evaluate the scientific progress in this area. A search of articles in Web of Science (WoS) from January 1, 1991, to May 1, 2023, yielded 359 papers that were analyzed using various online analysis tools. These articles have been cited 10,842 times with 30.2 times per paper. The number of publications experienced explosive growth starting in 2015. China and the United States led this research initiative. Keywords were divided into 3 clusters, including "Pathophysiology of SCI", "Bioactive components of EVs", and "Therapeutic effects of EVs in SCI". By integrating the average appearing year (AAY) of keywords in VoSviewer with the time zone map of the Citation Explosion in CiteSpace, the focal point of research has undergone a transformative shift. The emphasis has moved away from pathophysiological factors such as "axon", "vesicle", and "glial cell" to more mechanistic and applied domains such as "activation", "pathways", "hydrogels" and "therapy". In conclusions, institutions are expected to allocate more resources towards EVs-loaded hydrogel therapy and the utilization of innovative materials for injury mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in battery usage and the decommissioning of waste power batteries (WPBs), WPB treatment has become increasingly important. However, there is little knowledge of systems and norms regarding the performance of WPB dismantling treatments, although such facilities and factories are being built across the globe. In this paper, environmental performance is investigated quantitively using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology for a dismantled WPB manufacturing process in Tongliao city of Inner Mongolia Province, China. The functional unit was selected to be one metric ton of processed WPB, and the average data of 2021 were used. The results indicated that WPB dismantling treatments are generally sustainable in their environmental impacts, because the life cycle environmental effects can be neutralized by the substitution of virgin products with recycled counterparts. Of all the processes of dismantlement, Crude Lead Making, Refining, and Preliminary Desulfurization, were the top three contributors to the total environmental burden. The results of the sensitivity analysis showed that increasing photovoltaic power, wind power, and natural gas usage may significantly reduce the burden on the environment. On the basis of our findings, some suggestions are put forward for a policy to promote environmental green growth of WPB treatment. Although this paper is aimed at the power lead–acid battery, the research method is also of significance for the power lithium-ion battery, and we will conduct relevant research on the disassembly process of the power lithium-ion battery in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus has spread globally, causing unprecedented large-scale avian influenza outbreaks since 2020. In 2021, we isolated 17 highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses from wild birds in China. To determine virus origin, we genetically analyzed 1,529 clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses reported globally since October 2020 and found that they formed 35 genotypes. The 17 viruses belonged to genotypes G07, which originated from eastern Asia, and G10, which originated from Russia. The viruses were moderately pathogenic in mice but were highly lethal in ducks. The viruses were in the same antigenic cluster as the current vaccine strain (H5-Re14) used in China. In chickens, the H5/H7 trivalent vaccine provided complete protection against clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 virus challenge. Our data indicate that vaccination is an effective strategy for preventing and controlling the globally prevalent clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Nanhai I" shipwreck is an important discovery in the underwater archaeology of China, and many ceramics have been unearthed. These ceramics are important material artifacts of China's "Maritime Silk Road" and have considerable significance for the study of foreign trade in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279 A.D.). However, these ceramics have been buried in a marine environment for approximately 800 years and have all been corroded to varying degrees, with green-glazed pottery being the most severely corroded. In this study, the chemical compositions of five samples of green-glazed pottery and the corrosion morphology and mechanism of a representative sample were analyzed by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (SEM–EDS), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results: The green glaze is a low-temperature silica-aluminum oxide-lead oxide (SiO2-Al2O3-PbO) glaze with copper ions (Cu2+) as the main colorant. The corrosion morphology is characterized by alternating silicon (Si)- and lead (Pb)-rich layers, a sharp reaction interface between the Si-rich layer and the pristine glaze, and a relatively high porosity of the Si-rich gel layer, which is formed by the accumulation of spherical hydrated silica colloidal particles. These features suggest that the glaze was corroded through an interface-coupled dissolution–precipitation mechanism and that the properties of the gel pores controlled the reaction kinetics. Fluctuations in the solution properties at the reaction interface produced the complex morphology of the gel layer, whereas changes in the dryness and humidity of the environment are not essential factors. The samples have been corroding in the marine environment for nearly a thousand years, and explorations of the corrosion morphology and mechanism could provide reference information on the corrosion of various ancient ceramics and glasses and a basis for scientific conservation of these objects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most dams in China have been operating for a long time and are products of the economic and technical limitations at the time of construction. Due to decades of aging engineering and ancillary problems, these reservoirs pose great threats to the safety of local people and the development of the surrounding economy. In this study, the surface deformation information for the Banqiao Reservoir is monitored with the small baseline subset–synthetic aperture radar interferometry (SBAS-InSAR) method using 80 Sentinel-1A images acquired from 3 January 2020 to 20 August 2022. Additionally, ground measurements from the BeiDou ground-based deformation monitoring stations were collected to validate the InSAR results. Based on the InSAR results, the spatiotemporal deformation features of the dam were analyzed in detail. The results show that the deformation in most areas, including the dam in the study area, is relatively stable, and the regional deformation velocity of the Banqiao Reservoir dam and other hydraulic engineering facilities varies between −1 mm/y and −4 mm/y. The Ru River area has a relatively obvious subsidence trend, and the maximum subsidence velocity reaches 30 mm/y. The InSAR monitoring results are consistent with the change trend in the BeiDou ground-based deformation measurement results. The monitoring results for the reservoir dam area provide a reference for local sustainable development and geological disaster prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION Does a homozygous nonsense mutation in ACR lead to total fertilization failure (TFF) resulting in male infertility in humans? SUMMARY ANSWER A novel homozygous nonsense mutation of ACR (c.167G>A, p.Trp56X) was identified in two infertile brothers and shown to cause human TFF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ACROSIN, encoded by ACR , is a major acrosomal enzyme expressed only in the acrosome of the sperm head. Inhibition of acrosin prevents sperm penetration of the zona pellucida (ZP) in several species, including humans. Acr -knockout in hamsters causes male infertility with completely blocked fertilization. Of note, there are no reports of ACR mutations associated with TFF in humans. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was used for the identification of pathogenic genes for male factor TFF in eight involved couples. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Data from eight infertile couples who had experienced TFF during their IVF or ICSI attempts were collected. Functional assays were used to verify the pathogenicity of the potential genetic factors identified by WES. Subzonal insemination (SUZI) and IVF assays were performed to determine the exact pathogenesis of TFF caused by deficiencies in ACROSIN. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A novel homozygous nonsense mutation in ACR , c.167G>A, p.Trp56X, was identified in two additional primary infertile brothers whose parents were first cousins. This rare mutation caused ACROSIN deficiency and acrosomal ultrastructural defects in the affected sperm. Spermatozoa lacking ACROSIN were unable to penetrate the ZP, rather than hampering sperm binding, disrupting gamete fusion, or preventing oocyte activation. These findings were supported by the fertilization success of SUZI and ICSI attempts, as well as the normal expression of ACTL7A and PLCζ in the mutant sperm, suggesting that ICSI without remedial assisted oocyte activation is an optimal treatment for ARCOSIN-deficient TFF. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The absence of another independent pedigree to support our argument is a limitation of this study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings expand our understanding of the genes involved in human TFF, providing information for appropriate genetic counseling and fertility guidance for these patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant no. 82201803, 81901541, 82271639, and 32000584), University Synergy Innovation Program of Anhui Province (GXXT-2019-044), and the Nonprofit Central Research Institute Fund of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (grant no. 2019PT310002). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: BRAF V600 mutation is the most common oncogenic alternation in melanoma and is visible in around 50% of cutaneous and 10%-15% of acral or mucosal subtypes. Currently, immunotherapy with anti-PD-1 blockade and dual-targeted therapy with Dabrafenib plus trametinib (D + T) target therapy have been approved as adjuvant therapies for Stage III melanoma with BRAF V600 mutation. According to their phase III clinical trials, 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) is around 60% for both types of treatment. However, early disease control was slightly more effective with targeted therapy than immunotherapy. With different drug approval deadlines in China, anti-PD1 monotherapy, D + T combination, and Vemurafenib (V) monotherapy have all been used in real clinical practice as adjuvant settings for stage III BRAF-mut melanoma in recent years. We conducted this retrospective study to evaluate the efficacy of different treatments in the Chinese melanoma population. Methods: Patients who underwent radical surgery and were diagnosed as Stage III melanoma harboring BRAF V600 mutation by pathological report were retrospectively identified at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center from January 2017 to December 2021. Patients with mucosal melanoma, or with follow-up of <6 months, or receiving other adjuvant treatment were excluded. Pearson's chi-squared test or Fisher's exact test was performed for univariable analysis of the different adjuvant groups. Log-rank analysis was used to identify prognostic factors for relapse-free survival (RFS). Results: Ninety-three patients with resected stage III melanoma with BRAF V600E mutation were identified in our study, including 25 patients receiving adjuvant anti-PD-1 immunotherapy (PD-1), 25 receiving adjuvant D + T, 23 receiving V, and 20 patients with observation-only (OBS). There were no statistical differences between treatment groups in baseline characteristics including age, gender, subtypes, primary thickness, ulceration, and nodal involvement. Median relapse-free survival (RFS) time was not reached in the D + T group, 15 months in the V group, 15 months in the PD-1 group, and 10 months in the OBS group, respectively. Compared to OBS, all three other groups showed a tendency to benefit from RFS, while only D + T achieved a statistical difference (p = 0.002). However, compared to D + T, anti-PD-1 monotherapy also showed significantly worse relapse control (p = 0.032). Conclusions: For Chinese stage III melanoma with BRAF mutation, both novel targeted therapy and immunotherapy showed potential benefits in relapse-free survival compared to observation only. Dual-targeted D + T therapy may still be the best choice for adjuvant therapy because anti-PD-1 monotherapy has failed to report equivalent efficacy in real-world practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is a causative agent of rice bacterial blight (BB). In 2020–2022, BB re-emerged, and there was a break out in the Yangtze River area, China. The pandemic Xoo strain, LA20, was isolated and identified from cultivar Quanyou1606 and demonstrated to be the Chinese R9 Xoo strain, which is able to override the widely adopted xa5-, Xa7- and xa13-mediated resistance in rice varieties in Yangtze River. Here, we report the complete genome of LA20 by PacBio and Illumina sequencing. The assembled genome consists of one circular chromosome of 4,960,087 bp, sharing 99.65% sequence identity with the traditional representative strain, YC11 (R5), in the Yangtze River. Comparative genome analysis of LA20 and YC11 revealed the obvious variability in Tal genes (the uppermost virulence determinants) in numbers and sequences. Particularly, six Tal genes were only found in LA20, but not in YC11, among which Tal1b (pthXo1)/Tal4 (pthXo6), along with the lost one, pthXo3 (avrXa7), might be the major factors for LA20 to overcome xa5-, Xa7- and xa13-mediated resistance, thus, leading to the resurgence of BB. This complete genome of the new pandemic Xoo strain will provide novel insights into pathogen evolution, the traits of pathogenicity on genomic level and the epidemic disease status in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This survey aims to explore the current medical treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in China and match its degree with Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT). Methods: A total of 3275 patients were recruited from 16 mental health centers and 16 general hospitals in China. Descriptive statistics presented the total number and percentage of drugs, as well as all kinds of treatments. Results: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) accounted for the largest proportion (57.2%), followed by serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) (22.8%) and mirtazapine (7.0%) in the first therapy, while that of SNRIs (53.9%) followed by SSRIs (39.2%) and mirtazapine (9.8%) in the follow-up therapy. An average of 1.85 medications was administered to each MDD patient. Conclusion: SSRIs were the first choice in the first therapy, while the proportion of those drugs decreased during the follow-up therapy and were replaced by SNRIs. Plenty of combined pharmacotherapies were directly selected as the first trial of patients, which was inconsistent with guideline recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, Spodoptera frugiperda (S. frugiperda, Smith) has invaded China, seriously threatening maize production. To explore an effective method to curb the further expansion of the harm of the S. frugiperda, this experiment used maize seedlings of the Zhengdan 958 three-leaf stage (V3) of maize as the material to study the effect of coronatine (COR) on the ability of maize to resist insects (S. frugiperda) at the seedling stage. The results showed that when maize was sprayed with 0.05 μM COR, the newly incubated larvae of S. frugiperda had the least leaf feeding. It was found that 0.05 μM COR significantly increased the contents of abscisic acid (ABA) and jasmonate (JA) in maize leaves through the determination of hormone content. Moreover, transcriptome sequencing revealed that the expression of six genes (ZmBX1, ZmBX2, ZmBX3, ZmBX4, ZmBX5 and ZmBX6), which are associated with the synthesis of benzoxazinoid, were upregulated. Nine genes (ZmZIM3, ZmZIM4, ZmZIM10, ZmZIM13, ZmZIM18, ZmZIM23, ZmZIM27, ZmZIM28 and ZmZIM38) of JA-Zim Domain (JAZ) protein in the JA signal pathway, and seven genes (ZmPRH19, ZmPRH18, Zm00001d024732, Zm00001d034109, Zm00001d026269, Zm00001d028574 and Zm00001d013220) of ABA downstream response protein Group A Type 2C Protein Phosphatase (PP2C) were downregulated. These results demonstrated that COR could induce anti-insect factors and significantly improve insect resistance in seedling maize, which laid a theoretical foundation for further study of the mechanism of COR improving insect resistance in seedling maize, and provided data references for the use of COR as an environmentally friendly pest control method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold clouds are the main operation target of artificial precipitation enhancement, and its key is to find a supercooled cloud water area where the catalyst can be seeded to promote the formation of precipitation particles and increase precipitation to the ground. Based on the multi-spectral characteristics of the Fengyun-4A (FY-4A) satellite, a methodology for identifying supercooled cloud water is developed. Superimposed by a cloud top brightness temperature of 10.8 µm, a combination of 0.46 µm, 1.6 µm, and 2.2 µm red–green–blue (RGB) composites are used to identify the cloud phase and to obtain the real-time supercooled cloud water distribution every 5 min and in a 2 km resolution for the whole coverage of China. Based on the RGB composition, the supervised machine learning method K-mean clustering was applied to classify the cloud top phase. The results were validated extensively with Cloud–Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP). It is worthwhile to highlight that the corresponding hit rate reached 87% over the full disk domain for both the summer and winter seasons. Furthermore, on 29 November 2019, microphysical properties were measured, and the data of supercooled cloud droplets and ice crystals were obtained using YUN-12 transport aircraft in Taiyuan. After simultaneously matching the satellite with an airborne track, the cloud particle image data were obtained near the cloud top and within the clouds during the climb and descending stages of the flight. The phase obtained from the microphysical properties of supercooled cloud droplets and ice crystals was compared with cloud phase results identified by FY-4A and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) cloud phase products. The case study and comparison show that (1) the supercooled water clouds and ice particles identified by FY-4A are in good agreement with those from the airborne measurement at the cloud top and within the cloud and (2) the positions and shapes of water clouds and ice clouds identified by FY-4A correspond well with MODIS cloud phase products. However, there is a small deviation in the extent of ice clouds, which is mainly located in the transition area between ice clouds and water clouds. The extent of ice clouds identified by FY-4A is slightly larger than that of MODIS products. Combined with airborne detection, the comparison shows that the ice clouds identified by the FY-4A satellite are consistent with aircraft detection. The supercooled cloud water identified by FY-4A can meet the needs of the operational precipitation enhancement of cold clouds, improve operational effectiveness, and promote the application of satellite technology for weather modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanhai I shipwreck was a large wooden merchant ship (22.15 m in length and 9.85 m in width) built in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279 A.D.) of China, which was heavily loaded with a large number of porcelain and iron artifacts. In the South China Sea, it was found in 1987 and lifted as a whole in 2007. Its excavation provides a precious opportunity to reveal the preservation status of Nanhai I shipwreck. Iron compounds give rise to challenges in conservation procedures and the long-term stability of Nanhai I shipwreck. In this paper, the degradation of the wood and the iron deposits in the wood structure are investigated from the aspects of microscopic morphology, composition, and distribution to evaluate the preservation state of the waterlogged wood. Physical parameters, chemical composition, and the results of elemental analysis, and FTIR analysis suggest that the cellulose of wood is degraded, and the relative concentration of lignin increases. The ash content varies greatly among different samples, and the element of the highest content in ash is iron. The study on transverse and longitudinal sections from samples indicate that the deposits are unevenly concentrated in the cell lumen, middle lamella, rays, and pits of the cell wall. The cell lumen is filled with deposits in areas close to the surface of the samples. The XRD analysis demonstrates that the deposits in wood are mainly iron deposits, containing compounds pyrite (FeS2), siderite (FeCO3), iron oxyhydroxides (FeOOH), and magnetite (Fe3O4). The micro-X-ray Fluorescence mapping analysis suggests that the content of iron is relatively richer while containing less sulfur on the exterior of the sample. The presence of iron deposits accelerates wood degradation and increases the safety hazards of shipwrecks in the preservation process. We hope that our findings can make a modest contribution to iron removal from waterlogged archeological wood and shipwreck conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study intends to evaluate prenatal screening risk assessment performance based on biological variation to help clinical laboratories realize their own screening performance and set the appropriate performance specifications for prenatal screening risk assessment in China. Fifteen samples with detailed clinical information were distributed to participants and the prenatal screening Down syndrome risk assessment of each sample were submitted. Three levels of performance specification (optimum, desirable, minimum) derived from biological variation were used to evaluate laboratory prenatal screening risk assessment performance. A total of 797 laboratories participated in the survey project. There are 216 laboratories using serological double-marker test and 581 laboratories using serological triple-marker test. For each screening protocol, more than 92.00% laboratories meet minimum performance specifications, more than 84.00% laboratories meet desirable performance specifications, and only about 62.50%laboratories meet optimum performance specifications. The Feltz and Miller test indicated that there were no significant statistical differences in the RCV for double-marker screening in 5 platforms and triple-marker screening in 6 platforms. The risk assessment of prenatal screening in the second trimester in China can be improved further. It is appropriate to choose desirable performance specifications for external quality assurance organizations to evaluate the risk assessment performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous advancement of urbanization, a huge amount of construction waste is generated in large-scale construction activities, which has aggravated the problems of environmental pollution, waste of resources and destruction of city appearance. Construction waste recycling can effectively solve these problems. However, the recycling rate of construction waste is low in China. Therefore, this paper, firstly through the way of literature analysis and questionnaire investigation, analyzes the factors that influence construction waste resource utilization, determines the key influence factors and the stakeholders in the process of construction waste resource utilization, and uses social network analysis method to identify core stakeholders. On this basis, this paper selects construction enterprises and recycling enterprises as the game subjects, and the government and the public as the external environment to explore the influence of the external environment on the cooperation behavior of the two stakeholders, and uses Matlab simulation to analyze the influence of external variables on the decision-making behavior evolution of the two stakeholders. The research results show that the government, construction enterprises, recycling enterprises and the public are the four core stakeholders of the construction waste recycling system, which have the power to control the information transmission among other stakeholders and play a great supporting role in the smooth implementation of the construction waste recycling project. Among them, the construction enterprise and recycling enterprise are the construction waste recycling system's two stakeholders playing the pivotal role, and the government and the public are the external environment of the construction waste recycling system's incentive and regulatory effect. The difference between the benefits and costs of the two stakeholders and the effect intensity of the external environment determines the stable state of the system, that is, the stronger the effect of the external environment and the larger the difference, the more the behavior of the two tends toward the recycling, on-site recycling strategy. Government penalties and rewards can effectively reduce the illegal dumping of construction waste, while excessive penalties and rewards have limitations in controlling illegal dumping. Public participation can effectively improve the efficiency of government supervision. The research results help to deeply understand the behavior, needs and cooperation of stakeholders in the construction waste recycling market, improve the efficiency of cooperation between construction enterprises and recycling enterprises, and provide management inspiration for the construction waste recycling practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a severe public health problem in China. However, analysis on related infection events is lacking. We performed a systematic analysis of brucellosis laboratory infection and vaccine infection events from 2006 to 2019 in China based on the published literatures. Our analysis showed that most laboratoryBrucellainfections in hospitals were found in Southern China. The identification and handling of suspected samples ofBrucellainfection without following the recommended biosafety protection was the main risk factor. It is important to strengthen the preventive awareness of clinical laboratory staff and physicians, while highlighting the compulsory handling and identification of suspectedBrucella-infected samples in biosafety facilities and following biosafety practices. However, a severe Brucella infection accident at the Northeast Agricultural University, with 28 positive cases, showed that strengthening the management in teaching experiments of students in the veterinary-related profession is essential. However, cluster S2 vaccine strain infection events caused by vaccination and production were mainly observed in Northern China. Strengthening vaccination skills, personal protection, and improving the biosafety management of vaccine production and implementing regular risk surveillance is mandatory. Our analysis provides helpful clues for control of public health events involving brucellosis, as well as implementing intervention strategies is urgent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of low molecular weight organic acids (citric acid and malic acid) on the migration properties of nickel in soil. A reclaimed soil sample was obtained from the Panyi Mine in Huainan City, China. The effects of adding different concentrations of Ni, citric acid (CA) and malic acid (MA) were assessed on the migration and transformation of soil Ni forms. The results showed: (1) An increase in soil Ni activity with increasing Ni concentrations. (2) An increased proportion of exchangeable forms of Ni in soil with increased malic acid and citric acid concentrations, effectively promoting Ni mobility. In addition, the active Ni fraction in reclaimed soil increased significantly with increasing concentrations of citric and malic acid. The nickel activation effect of citric acid was found to be higher than that of malic acid. (3) The activation effect of organic acids on Ni weakened with aging, exhibiting a gradual transformation from the loosely bound form of Ni, to the strongly bound form. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the phytoremediation techniques used for the treatment of Ni-polluted soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: β-Thalassemia is one of the most prevalent inherited diseases in China. It is important to develop animal models to accurately simulate human β-thalassemia and there are unique advantages to studying β-thalassemia in pigs. However, there are only few reports on the systematic analysis of the β-thalassemia-related genes and their expression pattern in pigs so far. Therefore, in this study, we firstly predicted 11 porcine hemoglobin-encoding genes and found that there was no HBG gene in pigs, indicating that the globin switches might not exist in pigs. A new hemoglobin-encoding gene, 'HBB-like', was found in pigs, which showed high conservation in its amino sequences between pigs and humans. Then, we studied the evolutionary relationship of hemoglobin-encoding genes in human, pig and mouse. The results showed that the β-chain structure of pig and human was highly similar. In addition, we analyzed the hemoglobin-encoding gene expressions by using the iswine database and qPCR. Our results showed significant differences in the spatiotemporal expression patterns among the four genes (HBA, HBB, HBB-like and HBE) in three developmental stages of six different pig breeds. Our study provides an important theoretical basis for further construction of a gene-edited β-thalassemia miniature pig model to assess β--thalassemia treatments. β-Thalassemia induces hemolytic anemia caused by mutations in the β-chain gene locus. As humans progress from embryo to adulthood, hemoglobin recombines twice. To test whether similar hemoglobin reassembly occurs in pigs, bioinformatics tools were used to predict the pig hemoglobin-encoding gene. We then systematically analyzed the expression patterns of the HBB gene family in three developmental stages (weaning, sexual maturity and physical maturity) of six different pig breeds (Landrace, Yorkshire, Wuzhishan, Songliao black, Meishan and Tibetan). The results showed that the new hemoglobin coding gene 'HBB-like' was found in pigs, while the HBG gene did not exist in pigs, indicating that human-like reassembly might not exist in pigs. The HBB and HBB-like genes shared highly similar amino acid sequences and gene sequences. The genes on the β-chain were highly similar between humans and pigs and the amino acid sequences of human and pig HBB genes at position 26 and positions 41–42 were identical. qPCR results showed that there were significant differences in the spatiotemporal expression patterns of the four genes (HBA, HBB, HBB-like and HBE) across breeds. Our results provide a foundation for follow-up studies assessing the relationship between the gene-encoding hemoglobin and β-thalassemia disease, as well as the construction of a gene-edited β-thalassemia miniature pig model to assess β-thalassemia treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using an abandoned underground goaf in coal mines as water reservoirs has been successfully applied for protecting mine water resources in western China. The water storage media are composed of broken rock masses and the voids between the rock masses. It is critical for reservoir capacity calculation that the deformation characteristics and seepage evolution of the water storage media under triaxial stress are theoretically described. In this study, broken rock masses and the space among the rock masses are simplified as two springs in a series. The mechanical behavior of the broken rock mass is described by Hooke's law of linear elasticity, and the deformation characteristics of the space among the rock masses are represented by a nonlinear elastic constitutive model. The nonlinear stress-strain constitutive model of the water storage media is established by combining Hooke's law and the fractional derivative stress-strain model. Similarly, a non-Darcy seepage model of the water storage media is obtained. The nonlinear stress-strain model is verified by mechanical experiments, physical simulation tests, and field measured data, and parameter sensitivity analysis is performed. The non-Darcy seepage equation is fitted and analyzed by using the seepage experimental data of the broken rock mass under triaxial compression conditions. The fractional non-Darcy model rather than the Forchheimer equation can more accurately describe the nonlinear seepage process in water storage media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High loads of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) pollution occurred frequently since early spring and led to an increasing contribution of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) in organic aerosols. However, the characteristics of precursor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have rarely been studied. In this study, the continuous observation of VOCs was performed by an offline VOC monitoring system and gas chromatography-mass/flame ionization detector from 1 April 2020 to 31 July 2020; the characterization of VOCs and their contribution to SOA was explored. The results showed that during the observation period, the average mixing ratio of TVOCs was 42.6 ± 11.2 ppbv, and the major VOCs species were OVOCs, followed by alkanes, halocarbons, aromatics, alkenes and acetylene. When the west circulation pattern functioned, the value of aromatics increased, and the relation between PM2.5, O3 and VOCs increased when the high-pressure system controlled by anticyclone functioned. In combination with the results of positive matrix factorization, the main emission sources of ambient VOCs were complex, and the fuel combustion, industry-related emission, vehicle emission, biogenic emission and solvent volatilization accounted for 27.1%, 24.4%, 24.3%, 12.1% and 12.0%, respectively. Moreover, the industry-related emission contributed the greatest to the generation of SOA. This result indicated that the restrictions on aromatics during the industrial process are vital to reducing SOA formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Hexavalent chromium resistance and reduction mechanisms of microorganism provide a critical guidance for Cr(VI) bioremediation. However, related researches are limited in mesophiles and deficient for thermophiles. In this work, a novel alkaline Cr(VI)‐reducing thermophile Anoxybacillus flavithermus ABF1 was isolated from geothermal region. The mechanisms of Cr(VI) resistance and reduction were investigated. The results demonstrated that A. flavithermus ABF1 could survive in a wide temperature range from 50°C to 70°C and in pH range of 7.0–9.0. Strain ABF1 showed excellent growth activity and Cr(VI) removal performance when initial Cr(VI) concentration was lower than 200 mg L−1. 93.71% of Cr(VI) was removed at initial concentration of 20 mg L−1 after 72 h. The majority of Cr(VI) was found to be reduced extracellularly by enzymes secreted by cells. XPS and Raman analysis further manifested that Cr2O3 was the product of Cr(VI) reduction. Moreover, the Cr(VI) transportation‐related gene cysP and Cr(VI) reduction‐related gene azoR of A. flavithermus ABF1 played key roles in inhibiting Cr(VI) entering cells and promoting extracellular Cr(VI) reduction respectively. This work provides novel insight into the mechanisms of Cr(VI) resistance and detoxication of thermophiles, which leads to a promising alternative strategy for heavy metal bioremediation in areas with elevated temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Respiratory muscle weakness often occurs after stroke, which can lead to pulmonary dysfunction (PD). Pulmonary dysfunction prolongs the length of hospital stay and increases the risk of death. In a prospective, randomized, case-control study, we used musculoskeletal ultrasonography (MSUS), and pulmonary function tester to objectively evaluate the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with respiratory muscle training (RMT) in the treatment of PD in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Sixty-two stroke patients with PD were recruited and eventually 60 patients participated in this study. The control group was treated with RMT, and the treatment group was treated with rTMS on the basis of RMT. Treatment occurred five times a week for 8 weeks. Before and after treatment, diaphragmatic thickness (DT), diaphragmatic thickening fraction (DTF) and diaphragmatic mobility (DM) in patients, bilateral chest wall were measured by MSUS. Meanwhile, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEF, and MVV tested by pulmonary function tester was used to evaluate the improvement of lung functional. activities of daily living (ADL) was used as an objective criterion to evaluate the overall functional recovery of patients before and after treatment. After treatment, DT, DTF, and DM values improved significantly in both the affected and unaffected sides. The FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEF, MVV, and ADL were all increased after the treatment. Combined treatment showed a stronger increase than that by RMT treatment alone. The study preliminarily shows that rTMS and RMT could improve lung functional after acute ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goose astrovirus (GAstV), an agent of fatal visceral gout in goslings, has been widely circulating in eastern China since 2017, but little is known about its genetic diversity and systematic evolution. In this study, we isolated and sequenced nine nearly full‐length GAstV genomes and conducted comprehensive genetic diversity and evolutionary analysis and compared them with other reported GAstV sequences. Our results indicated that two genotypic species of GAstV were circulating in China, and GAstV‐2 subgenotype II‐c had arisen as the dominant genotype in Shandong province and across the whole country. Multiple alignments of GAstV amino acid sequences revealed several characteristic mutations in GAstV‐2 II‐c strains, as well as additional residues in the nine new isolates which varied over time. Phylogenetic analysis of three open reading frames demonstrated different evolutionary histories. Evidence of natural recombination was also detected in GAstV, with most of the recombination occurring in the GAstV‐2 II‐c subgenotype. Molecular adaptation analyses revealed that the evolution of GAstV was shaped by strong negative selection, although a number of amino acids, which potentially affect host infection and cell entry, were subjected to positive pressure. Overall, these findings improve our understanding of the epidemiology and evolution of GAstV and may help in the development of vaccines and diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]