Search

Background: The prevalence of food allergy is increasing and varies among different populations. Study on the food allergy prevalence is very limited in China. Objective: To assess the prevalence of food allergy in the Chinese population by using systematic evaluation andmeta-analysis. Methods: A literature search for population-based epidemiologic study on food allergy in China was conducted in several Chinese and English medical literature data bases. Pooled prevalence data and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to estimate the prevalence of food allergy in China. Subgroup analyses were performed to eliminate and explain the heterogeneity, and also to obtain the prevalence of pooled food allergy in different populations. Results: The overall food allergy prevalence ranged from 4.0% to 8.2%. Subgroup analysis showed a trend of overall increase of food allergy, which varied between 4.4% and 9.9%; The common allergic foods were determined to be mango, shrimp, egg, milk, and crab, with the prevalence of 1.9%, 1.5%, 1.4%, 1.3%, 1.3%, respectively; There is a lack of epidemiologic studies on food allergy in some regions and the overall prevalence of food allergy varied from region to region in China. Conclusion: This study revealed that the prevalence of food allergy in the Chinese population ranged from 4.0% to 8.2%; Food allergy prevalence varied by gender, age, and region. This study highlighted the need for collaborative studies of food allergy with the same rational methods to minimize potential bias caused by methods and techniques. Findings of this study may provide baseline data and scientific reference for improving policies on prevention and control of food allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chrysanthemum morifolium is a well‐known edible medicinal plant in Asia and some other regions. Content of selenium in Se‐enriched C. morifolium (SeCM) is significantly higher than that in traditional C. morifolium (non‐Se‐enriched C. morifolium, TCM). In order to understand health effects of SeCM, its chemical composition, lifespan‐prolonging activities, and impacts on antioxidant defense‐related gene expressions of model organism D. melanogaster were systematically studied. A total of eight phenols, including luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside, linarin, luteolin, apigenin, diosmetin, acacetin, 3‐caffeoylquinic acid and 4,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid, were identified in SeCM extract. Compared with TCM, SeCM exhibited superior antioxidant properties. Intake of SeCM dramatically reduced malondialdehyde level and increased activities of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in fruit flies. SeCM was able to upregulate gene expressions of Cu/Zn‐superoxide dismutase, Mn‐superoxide dismutase and hydrogen peroxide catalase, and extend lifespans of fruit flies. Comparatively high antioxidant capacities and lifespan‐prolonging activities of SeCM might be attributed to its abundant phenols and selenium, which probably ameliorated accumulation of free radicals and susceptibility to oxidative stress. These findings provide clues on further exploitation and utilization of Se‐enriched C. morifolium. Practical applications: Chrysanthemum morifolium has been used for nutraceutical and curative purposes in China for thousands of years. Se‐enriched C. morifolium typically contains more selenium than traditional C. morifolium, and is widely consumed in Asia and some other regions. Selenium is an essential micronutrient for humans, and selenium deficiency may result in several diseases such as myocardial infarction. SeCM is one of important selenium supplements. In this study, SeCM was found to upregulate gene expressions of Cu/Zn‐superoxide dismutase, Mn‐superoxide dismutase, and hydrogen peroxide catalase, and extend lifespans of experimental animals. These results provide supporting information for developing SeCM‐based functional foods with distinct health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding large-scale patterns of biodiversity and their drivers remains central in ecology. Many hypotheses have been proposed, including hydrothermal dynamic hypothesis, tropical niche conservatism hypothesis, Janzen's hypothesis and a combination model containing energy, water, seasonality and habitat heterogeneity. Yet, their relative contributions to groups with different lifeforms and range sizes remain controversial, which have limited our ability to understand the general mechanisms underlying species richness patterns. Here we evaluated how lifeforms and species range sizes influenced the relative contributions of these three hypotheses to species richness patterns of a tropical family Moraceae. The distribution data of Moraceae species at a spatial resolution of 50 km × 50 km and their lifeforms (i.e. shrubs, small trees and large trees) were compiled. The species richness patterns were estimated for the entire family, different life forms and species with different range sizes separately. The effects of environmental variables on species richness were analyzed, and relative contributions of different hypotheses were evaluated across life forms and species range size groups. The species richness patterns were consistent across different species groups and the species richness was the highest in Sichuan, Guangzhou and Hainan provinces, making these provinces the hotspots of this family. Climate seasonality is the primary factor in determining richness variation of Moraceae. The best combination model gave the largest explanatory power for Moraceae species richness across each group of range size and life forms followed by the hydrothermal dynamic hypothesis, Janzen's hypothesis and tropical niche conservatism hypothesis. All these models has a large shared effects but a low independent effect (< 5%), except rare species. These findings suggest unique patterns and mechanisms underlying rare species richness and provide a theoretical basis for protection of the Moraceae species in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coconut hispine beetle, Brontispa longissima Gestro, is an invasive and economically important pest of palm trees in China. Beauveria bassiana has been used widely to control agriculture and forestry pests, for example, Dendrolimus punctatus Walker, Pantana phyllostachysae Chao, and Basilepta melanopus Lefevre. Until now, there is no published data on the use of B. bassiana against B. longissima. In this study, we identified highly pathogenic B. bassiana strains against different developmental stages of B. longissima under laboratory conditions. The BB-01 strain presented the highest virulence against B. longissima. After inoculating with the BB-01 strain at (1.0 ± 0.5) × 107 spores·mL−1for 10 d (28 ± 1°C with 95 ± 1% relative humidity), the corrected mortality of B. longissima adults reached 94.7% with a LT50 of 5.3 days. Mortality on other developmental stages was 84.4 ± 3.3% (LT50 = 5.8 d) for 1st-2nd instars, 76.1 ± 1.2% (LT50 = 6.71 d) for 3rd-4th instars, 73.7 ± 1.1% (LT50 = 6.98 d) for ≥5 instars, respectively. BB-01 median lethal concentrations (LC50) against 1st-2nd instar, 3rd-4th instar, ≥5 instar larvae and adults for 6 d were 9.0 × 106, 3.5 × 107, 4.8 × 107, 9.1 × 105 spores·mL−1, respectively. The BB-01 strain exhibited a lethal effect peak on B. longissima at 6–7 d after treatment. This study provides basic data about the pathogenicity of different B. bassiana strains on B. longissima. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soil salinization is a threat to food security. China is rich in saline land resources for potential and current utilization. The cultivation and promotion of salt-tolerant rice varieties can greatly improve the utilization of this saline land. The super hybrid rice Chaoyouqianhao (CY1000) is one of the most salt-tolerant rice varieties and is widely used, but the molecular mechanism underlying its salt tolerance is not clear. Results: In this study, the characteristics of CY1000 and its parents were evaluated in the field and laboratory. The results showed that aboveground parts of CY1000 were barely influenced by salt stress, while the roots were less affected than those of its parents. A comparative transcriptomic strategy was used to analyze the differences in the response to salt stress among the male and female parents of CY1000 at the seedling stage and the model indica rice 93–11. We found that the salt tolerance of CY1000 was mainly inherited from its male parent R900, and its female parent GX24S showed hardly any salt tolerance. To adapt to salt stress, CY1000 and R900 upregulated the expression of genes associated with soluble component synthesis and cell wall synthesis and other related genes and downregulated the expression of most genes related to growth material acquisition and consumption. In CY1000 and R900, the expression of genes encoding some novel key proteins in the ubiquitination pathway was significantly upregulated. After treatment with MG-132, the salt tolerance of CY1000 and R900 was significantly decreased and was almost the same as that of the wild type after salt stress treatment, indicating that ubiquitination played an important role in the salt tolerance mechanism of CY1000. At the same time, we found that some transcription factors were also involved in the salt stress response, with some transcription factors responding only in hybrid CY1000, suggesting that salt tolerance heterosis might be regulated by transcription factors in rice. Conclusion: Our results revealed that the ubiquitination pathway is important for salt tolerance in rice, and several novel candidate genes were identified to reveal a novel salt tolerance regulation network. Additionally, our work will help clarify the mechanism of heterosis in rice. Further exploration of the molecular mechanism underlying the salt tolerance of CY1000 can provide a theoretical basis for breeding new salt-tolerant rice varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban trees perform various ecosystem services, and tree DBH (trunk diameter at breast height, 1.3 m above the ground) can act as a surrogate measure of these important functions. However, DBH has seldom been studied in relation to spatial variation, possible underlying drivers, and response to urbanization. Our field investigation collected data from tree species within Urban Function Units (UFUs) in south China's coastal city Zhanjiang, which has recently experienced rapid urbanization. The land cover of UFUs was determined by visual interpretation of satellite images. Trees with DBH > 2 cm were assessed, and vines were excluded. We recorded 12,434 trees in the green space belonging to 185 species, 137 genera, and 51 families. The dominant DBH range, 5‒15 cm, accounted for 43.72% of the total stems. The DBH of 33 individuals exceeded 90 cm, 20 of which were Ficus species. At 32.39 cm, the average DBH in commercial areas was the highest among the UFU types, while woodlands had the lowest at 7.11 cm. GLMM analysis showed that UFU types, landscape configuration, land cover, and construction age were all significantly associated with tree DBH. Tree DBH had a significant positive correlation with impervious surface area and a negative correlation with green space surface area. The largest trees were mainly distributed in urban villages, schools, parks, and transportation areas. Understanding urban tree DBH structure and its related factors can promote sustainable urban-forest development and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Abelia (Caprifoliaceae) is a small genus with five species, including one artificial hybrid and several natural hybrids. The genus has a discontinuous distribution in Mainland China, Taiwan Island and the Ryukyu Islands, providing a model system to explore the mechanisms of species dispersal in the East Asian flora. However, the current phylogenetic relationships within Abelia remain uncertain. Methods We reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships within Abelia using nuclear loci generated by target enrichment and plastomes from genome skimming. Divergence time estimation, ancestral area reconstruction and ecological niche modelling (ENM) were used to examine the diversification history of Abelia. Key Results We found extensive cytonuclear discordance across the genus. By integrating lines of evidence from molecular phylogenies, divergence times and morphology, we propose to merge Abelia macrotera var. zabelioides into A. uniflora. Network analyses suggested that there have been multiple widespread hybridization events among Abelia species. These hybridization events may have contributed to the speciation mechanism and resulted in the high observed morphological diversity. The diversification of Abelia began in the early Eocene, followed by A. chinensis var. ionandra colonizing Taiwan Island during the Middle Miocene. The ENM results suggested an expansion of climatically suitable areas during the Last Glacial Maximum and range contraction during the Last Interglacial. Disjunction between the Himalayan–Hengduan Mountain region and Taiwan Island is probably the consequence of topographical isolation and postglacial contraction. Conclusions We used genomic data to reconstruct the phylogeny of Abelia and found a clear pattern of reticulate evolution in the group. In addition, our results suggest that shrinkage of postglacial range and the heterogeneity of the terrain have led to the disjunction between Mainland China and Taiwan Island. This study provides important new insights into the speciation process and taxonomy of Abelia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The end-Permian mass extinction (EPME) has been recorded as the most severe biodiversity crisis in Earth's history, although the timing of the marine and terrestrial extinctions remains debatable. We present a new high-resolution magnetostratigraphic succession across the EPME and the Permian-Triassic boundary (PTB) from the Meishan sections in southeastern China, which contain the global boundary stratotype section and point (GSSP) for the base of the Triassic (also the Induan Stage) and the base of the Changhsingian Stage. We identified five normal and five reverse magnetozones, including MS1n to MS5n and MS1r to MS5r, from oldest to youngest, in the Changhsingian and Induan Stages. The Induan Stage was determined to consist of two polarity intervals, where the upper one is reverse (MS5r), and the lower one is normal (MS5n). The Changhsingian Stage is dominated by normal polarity, intercalated with four short-term reverse magnetozones (MS1r to MS4r). Consequently, the PTB and the Wuchiapingian-Changhsingian boundary are clearly located in MS5n and MS1n, respectively. These new magnetostratigraphic results provide a potential reference geomagnetic polarity pattern with which to refine the geomagnetic polarity time scale for the EPME and the Permian-Triassic transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within urban green spaces, tree species diversity is believed to correlate with aboveground biomass, though there is some disagreement within the literature on the strength and directionality of the relationship. Therefore, we assessed the relationship between the biodiversity of woody species and the aboveground biomass of woody plant species in the tropical, coastal city of Haikou in southern China. To accomplish this, we obtained comprehensive tree and site data through field sampling of 190 urban functional units (UFUs, or work units) corresponding to six types of land uses governmental‐institutional, industrial‐commercial, park‐recreational, residential, transport infrastructure, and undeveloped area. Based on our field data, we investigated the relationship between tree species diversity and aboveground biomass using multiple regression, which revealed significant relationships across all five types of land uses. Aboveground biomass in green spaces was also correlated with anthropogenic factors, especially time since urban development, or site age, annual maintenance frequency by human caretakers, and human population density. Among these factors, maintenance is the strongest predictor of aboveground biomass in urban green space. Therefore, this study highlights the critical role of maintenance of urban green space in promoting both aboveground biomass and woody biodiversity in urban ecosystems and, consequently, on urban ecosystem services. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the ecosystem services provided by communities of woody plant species in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Archean volcanic‐sedimentary rocks (greenstones) hosting the Dongyaozhuang (DYZ) gold deposit are situated in the Wutai Mountain, north‐central China. Field geology and mineral assemblages show at least two episodes of mineralization. The first episode features deformed quartz‐pyrite veins filling in the regional foliation (MI, Paleoproterozoic) and can be divided into two stages (MIa and MIb) based on whether the mineralization is accompanied by tourmalinization. The mineral assemblages are mainly quartz + carbonate + pyrite + chalcopyrite (+ tourmaline for MIb); both are cut by deformed barren quartz veins, which represent the final stage of MI. The second episode features undeformed stockworks/veinlets with a mineral assemblage of quartz + carbonate + pyrite + chalcopyrite + arsenopyrite ± native gold (MIIa), crosscutting MI; these ore bodies are also cut through by undeformed barren carbonate and/or quartz veins (MIIb), which represent the end of metallogeny. By integrating the crustal evolution history with ore geology, we suggest that the DYZ gold deposit is a product by overprinting of episodic mineralization rather than a single metallogenic event. For further understanding and evidence in support of this speculation, fluid inclusions and hydrothermal chlorite and biotite were studied to reveal the physicochemical conditions of fluids from various stages, and C‐H‐O isotopes were used to trace the source(s) of fluids. Temperatures recorded in chlorite from various stages C1 (from the MIa), C2 (MIb), and C3 (MIIa) generally agrees with the homogenization temperatures of aqueous type fluid inclusions (FIs) of corresponding stages. Components of FIs from each stage are dominated by water with low salinities (0–12.6 wt% NaCl equiv). The Ib‐1, Ib‐2, and Ib‐s type CO2‐H2O FIs observed from the same deformed quartz vein of the MIb can be attributed to overprinting of hydrothermal fluids. The primary Ib‐1 and Ib‐2 FIs (209–404°C) were trapped at pressures of approximately 2.2–3.7 kbar, representing the formation pressure of the MI stage, whereas the secondary Ib‐s FIs (240–349°C) were trapped at pressures of approximately 0.8–1.5 kbar, which indicates overprinting induced by MII. The C‐H‐O isotope compositions of quartz and carbonates from MIa, MIb, and MIIa can be interpreted to indicate that the fluids were derived from the same source with multistage evolution or to reflect a homogeneous signature induced with overprinting mineralization. According to the geology, mineral assemblages, component of fluid inclusions, and C‐H‐O isotopes, the DYZ gold deposit is likely to be a product of overprinting of an orogenic gold deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficiency of two prompt strategies (echoic versus echoic + picture) on establishing the intraverbal behavior (i.e., question answering) for three 4-year-old children with ASD in China. All three children had mand, tact, and echoic behavior in their repertoire, but had a limited intraverbal repertoire. An adapted alternating treatments design combined with a multiple probe across two behaviors (two question sets) was used. Results indicated that both strategies were effective to teach and maintain question answering for all three children. However, the echoic prompt strategy required fewer trials to criterion than the echoic plus picture strategy, suggesting the efficiency of echoic prompts to establish intraverbal repertoire for these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sino-Japanese Floristic Region (SJFR) is a key area for plant phylogeographical research, due to its very high species diversity and disjunct distributions of a large number of species and genera. At present, the root cause and temporal origin of the discontinuous distribution of many plants in the Sino-Japanese flora are still unclear. Diabelia (Caprifoliaceae; Linnaeoideae) is a genus endemic to Asia, mostly in Japan, but two recent discoveries in China raised questions over the role of the East China Sea (ECS) in these species' disjunctions. Chloroplast DNA sequence data were generated from 402 population samples for two regions (rpl 32- trn L, and trn H- psb A) and 11 nuclear microsatellite loci were screened for 549 individuals. Haplotype, population-level structure, combined analyses of ecological niche modeling, and reconstruction of ancestral state in phylogenies were also performed. During the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) period after the Tertiary, Diabelia was potentially widely distributed in southeastern China, the continental shelf of the East China Sea and Japan (excluding Hokkaido). After LGM, all populations in China have disappeared except those in Zhejiang which may represent a Glacial refuge. Populations of Diabelia in Japan have not experienced significant bottleneck effects, and populations have maintained a relatively stable state. The observed discontinuous distribution of Diabelia species between China and Japan are interpreted as the result of relatively ancient divergence. The phylogenetic tree of chloroplast fragments shows the characteristics of multi-origin evolution (except for D. sanguinea). STRUCTURE analysis of nuclear Simple Sequence Repeat (nSSR) showed that the plants of the Diabelia were divided into five gene pools: D. serrata, D. spathulata, D. sanguinea, D. ionostachya (D. spathulata var. spathulata -Korea), and populations of D. ionostachya var. ionostachya in Yamagata prefecture, northern Japan. Molecular evidence provides new insights of Diabelia into biogeography, a potential glacial refuge, and population-level genetic structure within species. In the process of species differentiation, ECS acts as a corridor for two-way migration of animals and plants between China and Japan during glacial maxima, providing the possibility of secondary contact for discontinuously distributed species between China and Japan, or as a filter (creating isolation) during glacial minima. The influence of the ECS in speciation and biogeography of Diabelia in the Tertiary remains unresolved in this study. Understanding origins, evolutionary histories, and speciation will provide a framework for the conservation and cultivation of Diabelia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • We identified 5163 plant species (229 families and 1730 genera) in the final plant species list from the 18 Chinese cities. • The composition of all plant species was significantly positively correlated with both MAP and MAT. • Very few diversity metrics could be related to the environmental factors tested. • The Net Relatedness Index of native cultivated species was negatively related to socioeconomic variable UGP. • The family richness and phylogenetic overdispersion of urban spontaneous plant species were positively related to MAT. Abstract Analyses of the phylogenetic relatedness of plant communities in urban areas have great potential to inform future diversity planning in expanding or new urban areas. The influences affecting the number of taxa found in urban areas and their phylogenetic diversity remains unclear. Both native and exotic (or imported) plant species can be found in urbanized areas: some grow spontaneously, and some are cultivated. These groups likely have different drivers: cultivated species diversity may be dependent on city wealth and the nature and extent of green space within those urban areas. In contrast, spontaneous species diversity may be more closely related to the constraints of climate. In this study, we analyzed the drivers of plant taxonomic richness and phylogenetic diversity of five groups (native-spontaneous, native-cultivated, exotic-spontaneous, exotic-cultivated and all) across 18 different cities in China that spanned different climate zones and socioeconomic status. We used both fieldwork and existing literature in our study. We constructed general linear models to assess whether the number of taxa and the phylogenetic diversity of plant life in each of the five studied groups could be related to any of two biophysical variable Mean Annual Temperature (MAT) and Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP as well as two socioeconomic variables, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Urban Greening Percentage (UGP). We identified 5163 plant species (229 families and 1730 genera) in the combined final plant species list from the 18 Chinese cities. The composition of all plant species was positively correlated (p < 0.01) with both MAP and MAT. Very few diversity metrics seemed to be related to the environmental factors tested, but the patterns were consistent with expectations. The Net Relatedness Index (NTI) of native cultivated species was negatively related to socioeconomic variable UGP (greater overdispersion with greater UGP), whereas the family richness and phylogenetic overdispersion of urban spontaneous plant species were positively related to the climate variable MAT. These findings might indicate long-term urban legacy effects over the course of centuries as have been observed in other world regions having a long history of urbanization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Question: Are genetic abnormalities in CATSPER (cation channel of sperm) genes associated with idiopathic male infertility with normal semen parameters and, if so, how do they affect male fertility?Summary Answer: A novel copy number variation (CNV) in CATSPER2 causes idiopathic male infertility with normal semen parameters by disrupting the ability of sperm to penetrate viscous media, undergo hyperactivation and respond to progesterone.What Is Known Already: CATSPER is the principle Ca2+ channel mediating extracellular Ca2+ influx into spermatozoa. Although several case reports have suggested a causal relationship between CATSPER disruption and human male infertility, whether genetic abnormalities in CATSPER genes are associated with idiopathic male infertility with normal semen parameters remains unclear.Study Design, Size, Duration: Spermatozoa were obtained from men attending the reproductive medical center at Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China between January 2014 and June 2016. In total, 120 men from infertile couples and 20 healthy male donors were selected to take part in the study, based on their normal semen parameters.Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: CATSPER and KSPER currents were assessed using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Whole-genome sequencing and TaqMan® CNV assays were performed to identify genetic variations. The expression levels of genes encoding the CATSPER complex were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot. Sperm motion characteristics and hyperactivation were examined with a computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) system. Sperm responses to progesterone, assessed as increases in CATSPER current and intercellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i), as well as inducement of penetration ability and acrosome reaction, were examined by means of whole-cell patch-clamp technique, single-sperm [Ca2+]i imaging, penetration into methylcellulose assay and chlortetracycline staining, respectively.Main Results and the Role Of Chance: An infertile man with complete disruption of CATSPER current was identified. This individual has a novel CNV which disrupts one gene copy in the region 43894500-43950000 in chromosome 15 (GRCh37.p13 Primary Assembly, nsv3067119), containing the whole DNA sequence of CATSPER2. This CNV affected the expression of CATSPER2, resulting in dramatically reduced levels of CATSPER2 proteins in the individual's spermatozoa. Although this individual exhibited normal semen parameters, his spermatozoa showed impaired penetration ability, deficient hyperactivation, and did not respond to progesterone, in terms of monovalent current potentiation, [Ca2+]i increase, penetration ability enhancement and acrosome reaction inducement, which may explain the individual's idiopathic infertility.Large Scale Data: N/A.Limitations, Reasons For Caution: Our novel findings require more cases to support the CATSPER2 CNV identified in this study as a common cause of idiopathic male infertility in patients with normal semen parameters. Therefore, caution must be taken when extrapolating the use of this CNV as a potential biomarker for idiopathic male infertility.Wider Implications Of the Findings: The findings from the unique human CATSPER 'knockout' model in this study not only confirm the essential roles of CATSPER in mediating progesterone response and regulating hyperactivation in human spermatozoa but also reveal that disruption of CATSPER current is a significant factor causing idiopathic male infertility.Study Funding/competing Interest(s): This study was funded by National Natural Science Foundation of China (81771644 and 31400996 to T.L.; 31230034 to X.Z.); National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program, 2015CB943003 to X.Z.); National Key Research and Development Program of China (2016YFC1000905 to T.L.); Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi, China (20121BBG70021 and GJJ12015 to X.Z.; 20161BAB204167 and 20171ACB21006 to T.L.) and the open project of National Population and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Contraceptives and Devices Research (No. 2016KF07 to T.L.). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction. Steroid resistance and frequent relapse are problems in the treatment of minimal change disease (MCD). However, epidemiological factors that influence steroid-resistant and relapse of MCD are rarely reported. This study evaluated potential factors that influence the onset and relapse of MCD and the epidemiological features of southern Chinese patients with adult-onset MCD. Patients and Methods. Patients with adult-onset MCD were included from the Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, which is located in the southernmost part of China’s mainland, between 2015 and 2016. Potential influencing factors were investigated. Results. Eighty-seven patients with incipient MCD were enrolled, and 85 of these patients were followed up; 71.8% (61/85) were steroid-sensitive and 28.2% (24/85) were steroid-resistant. In terms of seasonal distribution, the highest rate of incipient cases was in spring (39.1%, 34/87), which also showed a high rate of relapse cases (29.7%, 22/74). Among patients who were followed up for more than half a year and whose proteinuria completely resolved (69.4%, 59/85), 52.5% (31/59) were without relapse and 47.5% (28/59) were with relapse. Patients without relapse were older than those with relapse (P<0.05). Before disease onset, 20.7% (18/87) of patients with incipient MCD were diagnosed with infection, including 94.5% (17/18) with respiratory tract infection. Fourteen patients in complete remission posttreatment developed an infection before relapse, including 85.7% (12/14) with respiratory tract infection. Conclusion. Steroid resistance and frequent relapse are current challenges for the treatment of adult-onset MCD in southern China, and respiratory tract infection may be a risk factor for onset and relapse. Additionally, younger patients with MCD tend to have more frequent relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A special type of meniscal lesion involving the peripheral attachment of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus (PHMM), termed a "ramp lesion," is commonly associated with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. However, its treatment is still controversial. Recently, stable ramp lesions treated with abrasion and trephination alone have been shown to have good clinical outcomes after ACL reconstruction. Hypothesis: Stable ramp lesions treated with abrasion and trephination alone during ACL reconstruction will result in similar clinical outcomes compared with those treated with surgical repair. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.Methods:A prospective randomized controlled study was performed in 91 consecutive patients who had complete ACL injuries and concomitant stable ramp lesions of the medial meniscus. All patients were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 groups based on whether the stable ramp lesions were surgically repaired (study group; n = 50) or only abraded and trephined (control group; n = 41) during ACL reconstruction. All surgical procedures were performed by a single surgeon who was blinded to the functional assessment findings of the patients. The Lysholm score, subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and stability assessments (pivot-shift test, Lachman test, KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side difference, and KT-1000 arthrometer differences of <3, 3-5, and >5 mm) were evaluated preoperatively and at the last follow-up. Moreover, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate the healing status of the ramp lesions. Results: All consecutive patients who were screened for eligibility from August 2008 to April 2012 were enrolled and observed clinically. There were 40 patients in the study group and 33 patients in the control group who were observed for at least 2 years. At the final follow-up, there were no significant differences between the study group and the control group in terms of the mean Lysholm score (88.7 ± 4.8 vs 90.4 ± 5.8, respectively; P = .528), mean subjective IKDC score (83.6 ± 3.7 vs 82.2 ± 4.5, respectively; P = .594), pivot-shift test results (P = .658), Lachman test results (P = .525), KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side difference (1.6 ± 1.2 vs 1.5 ± 1.1, respectively; P = .853), or KT-1000 arthrometer grading (P = .738). Overall, for both groups (n = 73), 67 patients showed completely healed (38 study, 29 control), 3 showed partially healed (1 study, 2 control), and 3 showed nonhealed (1 study, 2 control) signals on follow-up MRI when evaluating the healing status of the ramp lesions. There was no significant difference regarding the healing status of the ramp lesions between the 2 groups (P = .543). Conclusion: This prospective randomized controlled trial showed that, in terms of subjective scores, knee stability, and meniscal healing status, concomitant stable ramp lesions of the medial meniscus treated with abrasion and trephination alone during ACL reconstruction resulted in similar clinical outcomes compared with those treated with surgical repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological implications of ∼1.95 Ga and ∼1.85 Ga metamorphic ages for HP granulites in the Huai’an terrane are still controversial, which have affected the crustal evolution models for the North China Craton. This study reports two geological sections in which distinct geological relationships of a quartz-dioritic and a tonalitic dike cutting through mafic HP granulite and granulite facies meta-sedimentary rocks are described. In these two sections, magmatic dikes, mafic HP granulites and meta-sedimentary rocks preserve conformable foliation to indicate their similar deformation history. The U–Pb dating and Lu–Hf isotopic analysis of zircons from metamorphic and meta-igneous rocks provide new constraints on the timing and mechanism of thermal events associated with metamorphic and deformation events. Both magmatic dikes were formed around ∼1.95 Ga and overprinted by later metamorphic event during ∼1.85 Ga. The S-type granite, at geological section (GS) 1, revealed its formation age was formed around 1959 ± 34 Ma ( n = 3, MSWD = 1.5), and overprinted by later metamorphic event at 1840 ± 8 Ma ( n = 10, MSWD = 1.2). Additionally, zircons from the mafic HP granulite in the GS2 are dominated by metamorphic ages of 1972 ± 22 Ma ( n = 6; MSWD = 0.03) with few grains recording an age of 1856 ± 29 Ma ( n = 3; MSWD = 0.17). In situ Lu–Hf analyses on zircons from the quartz-dioritic dike, tonalitic dike, mafic HP granulite and S-type granite, reveal that the magmatic dikes were derived from partial melting of ∼2.0–2.2 Ga meta-basic rocks and the S-type granite was generated by melting of meta-sediments beyond 840 ± 50 °C. It suggested that those meta-sediments were taken into the lower crust in a certain way at granulite facies conditions ca. 1.95 Ga ago. A clockwise P-T path acquired from mafic HP granulite revealed peak metamorphic conditions of 880–890 °C and 11–13 kbar. The temperature results recorded in the ∼1.95 Ga zircons of mafic HP granulite, similar to those of high-pressure mineral assemblage in matrix, suggest that the HP granulite metamorphism was approximately ∼1.95 Ga ago. According to the results above, this contribution concludes that mafic and meta-sedimentary rocks were metamorphosed together under high-pressure granulite metamorphic conditions ∼1.95 Ga ago, followed by high-temperature granulite facies melting event that gave rise to granite and S-type granite at ∼1.95 Ga. The granulite facies metamorphic rocks and magmatic dikes in the Huangtuyao graphite mine experienced the same evolution history after ∼1.95 Ga. The mafic and pelitic HP granulites in the Huai’an terrane are interpreted to be collisional products of the Paleoproterozoic cratonization of the NCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The North China Craton (NCC) is considered to have been incorporated into the Columbia supercontinent during late Paleoproterozoic. The Huai’an terrane located in north-central part of the NCC is an important tectonic window to investigate the Paleoproterozoic crustal evolution history of this craton, particularly due to the wide occurrence of high-grade metamorphic rocks including retrograded eclogites and high-pressure granulites. Available data show two controversial peak metamorphic ages of these rocks as 1.95–1.90 or ∼1.85–1.80 Ga. Thus, determining the precise timing of metamorphism of the high-pressure granulites is important in reconstructing the collisional history. In this study, we present zircon U–Pb ages, bulk chemistry, and mineral inclusions in zircons and matrix mineral assemblages from the high-pressure granulites to evaluate the timing of metamorphism. Our results reveal ca. 2.05–2.0 Ga ages from magmatic zircons in these rocks representing the timing of emplacement of mafic magmas. The metamorphic zircons yield two groups of ages at 1.95–1.90 and ∼1.85∼1.80 Ga. Clinopyroxene, plagioclase, titanite, and apatite occur as common mineral inclusions within the ∼1.85–1.80 Ga metamorphic zircons. The chemical compositions of clinopyroxene and plagioclase occurring as inclusions are very similar to those of the rim compositions of those minerals in the matrix, suggesting their formation during retrograde granulite metamorphism, and are distinctly different from those of the core domains of the minerals in the matrix which represent high-pressure granulite metamorphism. These results indicate that the metamorphic zircons formed during retrograde granulite metamorphism dated as ∼1.85–1.80 Ga and the age range of ∼1.95–1.90 Ga corresponds to high-pressure granulite metamorphism. The dual nature of the geological and geochronological features suggest that the Archean gray gneisses in the Huai’an terrane represent the basement rocks detached from the Khondalite Belt of the NCC after collision. Integrating with published data, a double-side collision with scissor-like suturing model is proposed for the Paleoproterozoic cratonization of the NCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease that is more prevalent in older people. Surgical intervention is a safe treatment of choice. However, the recurrence rate is relatively high and the outcome is not always satisfactory among surgically treated patients. It is believed that aberrant angiogenesis and intracapsular inflammation contribute to the development of CSDH. Atorvastatin is reported to promote angiogenesis and suppress inflammation. We have recently shown that atorvastatin is effective to non-surgically reduce and eliminate CSDH with minimal side effects. Here, we report a clinical research trial protocol that is designed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of atorvastatin on CSDH.Methods/design: We have designed a multi-center, randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind clinical trial for evaluating the efficacy of oral atorvastatin in reducing CSDH. We have so far recruited 96 patients with CT-confirmed or MRI-confirmed CSDHs from 16 medical centers in China. These patients were originally recruited for the Oriental Neurosurgical Evidence-based Study Team (ONET) study. After informed consent is provided, patients are randomized to receive either atorvastatin (oral 20 mg/night for 8 weeks) or placebo (dextrin for 8 weeks); and followed for 16 weeks after the treatment. The primary outcome is the change in hematoma volume at the end of 8-week treatment. Secondary outcomes include: changes in 1) the hematoma volume at the 4(th), 12(th), and 24(th) weeks; 2) Markwalder's Grading Scale and Glasgow Coma Scale (MGS-GCS); 3) Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) and 4) Activities of Daily Life-the Barthel Index scale (ADL-BI). Safety will be assessed during the study by monitoring adverse events, laboratory tests, electrocardiography (ECG), measurements of vital signs (temperature, pulse, and blood pressure) and body weight.Discussion: Results of this trial will provide critical information regarding whether atorvastatin is an effective and safe alternative to surgical treatment of CSDH.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier--NCT02024373 The date of trial registration: 7 August 2013. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 52% of the world's population now lives in urban areas, and 41% of urban land in developed countries is used for residential areas. The amount and quality of residential green space, an important element in urban residential infrastructure, is closely correlated to city dwellers' quality of life. The quality of green spaces is not only closely correlated to the ecosystem services they provide, but also to their disservices. In order to (i) examine how plant diversity and plant traits vary in different residential areas, (ii) determine the main socio-economic factors driving plant trait variations across different residential areas, and (iii) provide an overview on selected ecosystem services and disservices related to plant diversity, we investigated the flora and socio-economic properties of 83 residential areas in Beijing, China. We found a total of 369 plant species belonging to 99 families and 150 genera. With respect to plant traits, there were 90 annual species, 174 alien species, 169 pollen allergenic species, and 133 species with edible or pharmaceutical value. The number of perennial, alien, ornamental and edible plant species was largest in residential areas completed in the 1990s. The number of allergenic species was highest in residential areas completed prior to 1980. The Simpson, Shannon and Pielou indices for trees and shrubs were highest in areas completed in the 1990s, while those same indices for herbs were highest in residential areas completed prior to 1980. General Linear Model analyses revealed that richness increased with increasing housing price across all groups of species. Principal Component Analysis indicated that housing price and floor-area ratio are the variables that positively correlate with species richness for all groups of species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China owns the world's largest capacity of coal-fired power units. By the end of 2012, the capacity of installed national thermal power has been 819.68 million kilowatts. The latest standard requires that newly built power plants emit SO in no more than 100 mg/m and the emission of old ones be lower than 200 mg/m while in some key areas the emission should be controlled under 50 mg/m. So by the end of 2012, 90 % of the active coal-fired units have been equipped with flue gas desulfurization devices. Among the desulfurization methods adopted, limestone-gypsum wet flue gas desulphurization accounts for 92 %, causing the problem of fine droplets in the exhaust gas after defogger, which may even form 'gypsum rain.' At present, sampling methods are widely used at home and abroad, such as magnesium ion tracer method, modified magnesium ion tracer method and chemical analysis. In addition, some scholars use aerodynamic methods, such as ELPI, to measure the diameter distribution and concentration. The methods mentioned above all have their own demerits, such as the inability to on-line, continuous measurements and the need of prolonged measuring time. Thus, in this paper some potential optical on-line methods are presented, such as Fraunhofer diffraction pattern analysis and wavelength-multiplexed laser extinction. Also brought up are their measuring scope and merits. These methods have already been utilized to measure small liquid droplets and their demonstrations and evaluations are as well stated. Finally, a 3D imaging method based on digital holographic microscope is proposed for in-line measurement of size and concentration of slurry droplets. The feasibility of this method is demonstrated by preliminary experimental investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Xinghe graphite deposit is located in the north-central part of the North China Craton (NCC) where Archean gray gneiss, metasedimentary rocks (khondalites) and mafic (high-pressure) granulites constitute the dominant rock types. In this study, we report results of detailed geological and structural mapping around the Xinghe graphite mine. We identify three stages of deformation (D1-D3) and the graphite mineralization is correlated with D1 or between D1 and D2. The first stage of deformation represented by rootless intrafolial folds whose axial surface cuts across the regional penetrative gneissosity (S2) of D2, was constrained at ca. 1.95-1.90 Ga by U-Pb age of zircon grains from a mafic high-pressure granulite. The second stage of deformation is represented by tight folds with formation of regional penetrative foliation and strong ductile shearing, when garnet broke down to plagioclase + pyroxene. This stage is dated as ca 1.85 Ga, from U-Pb analysis of zircons in leucosome from a migmatitic gneiss. The third stage of deformation is represented by large scale folding, which probably formed between 1.85 and 1.80 Ga, as constrained from the ca. 1.80 Ga emplacement age of an undeformed pegmatite that cuts across the host metasediments. Prior to the high-pressure granulite metamorphism, voluminous ca. 2.15-2.0 Ga granites were emplaced within the khondalites. The graphitization postdates the emplacement of these granites as deduced from the presence of flaky graphites in the metagranites. The protolith of the mafic high-pressure granulite dike that intruded the khondalite at ca. 2.0 Ga was also metamorphosed at 1.95-1.90 Ga, and is part of the exploited graphite ore body. We therefore constrain the timing of graphite mineralization to be between ca. 1.95 and 1.85 Ga. Our geological and geochronological data indicate that all the rock units in the Xinghe graphite mine were subjected to high-pressure granulite facies metamorphism at ca. 1.95-1.90 Ga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The present article aimed to explore and evaluate the epidemiology and determine the status of hypertension awareness, treatment and control in Henan province, China. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Thirty counties in Henan province of China. Participants There were 18 772 randomly selected 15-74 years old. Main outcome measures The distribution of blood pressure and prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension based on automated electronic monitor and questionnaire. Results The crude prevalence of hypertension was 24.9%, and the standardised rate was 26.6%, meaning about 25 million were hypertensive in Henan province. Of which, 46% were aware of their hypertension diagnosis, 35.7% were having antihypertensive medicine, only 10.4% had their blood pressure controlled less than 140/90 mmHg, and 29.1% were being controlled when they were having antihypertensive medicine. Conclusions Hypertension is highly prevalent in Henan province, but the levels of hypertension awareness, treatment and control are low. Therefore, necessary actions including prevention, detection and treatment must be taken to keep the situation from worsening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The carcinogenic chemicals and reactive oxygen species in tobacco can result in DNA damage. DNA repair genes play an important role in maintaining genome integrity. Genetic polymorphisms of DNA repair genes and smoking may contribute to susceptibility of lung cancer. Methods In this hospital-based case-control study, we investigated the relationship between 13 tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms ( SNPs) in base excision repair pathway and nucleotide excision repair pathway genes, smoking, and lung cancer susceptibility. Thirteen tag SNPs were genotyped in 265 lung cancer patients and 301 healthy controls. Logistic regression and multifactor dimensionality reduction method were applied to explore the association and high-order gene-gene and gene-smoking interaction. Results In single tag SNP analysis, XPA rs2808668, XPC rs2733533, and XPD rs1799787 were significantly associated with lung cancer susceptibility. Joint effects analysis of XPA rs2808668, XPC rs2733533 and XPD rs1799787 showed that there was an increased risk of lung cancer with increasing numbers of risk alleles. Haplotype analysis showed that XRCC1 (rs25487, rs1799782, rs3213334) GCC had a positive association with lung cancer. Analysis of gene-gene and gene-smoking interaction by multifactor dimensionality reduction showed that a positive interaction existed between the four genes and smoking. The two-factor model, including XPC rs2755333 and smoking, had the best prediction ability for lung cancer. Compared with the C/ C genotype of XPC rs2733533 and no smoking, the combination of genotype A carriers with XPC rs2733533 and heavy smokers (≥30 pack-year) had a 13.32-fold risk of lung cancer. Conclusion Our results suggest multiple genetic variants in multiple DNA repair genes may jointly contribute to lung cancer risk through gene-gene and gene-smoking interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The large scale Mesozoic magmatism and related metallogeny in the Taihang Mountains (TM) provide important clues for the lithospheric thinning of the North China Craton (NCC). Among the ore deposits, the vein gold mineralization of Shihu in the Fuping region and the skarn ore deposit of Xishimen in the Wu''an region represent typical Mesozoic metallogeny in the TM. In the Shihu gold mine, the Mapeng batholith is dominantly composed of monzogranite and granodiorite, whereas, the Wu''an pluton in the Xishimen iron mine mainly comprises monzonite and diorite. Here we present zircon LA–ICP-MS U–Pb data from 8 samples which reveal the timing of magmatism in the TM as ca. 130Ma, which is contemporaneous with the large-scale metallogeny in the margins of the NCC. The δ34S values recorded in the sulfide minerals from the Shihu gold deposit and the Xishimen skarn iron deposit show a range of 2.2‰–5.0‰, and 11.6‰–18.7‰, respectively. Helium isotopic compositions of fluid inclusions in pyrite from the Shihu gold deposit vary from 0.12 to 1.98Ra (where Ra is the 3He/4He ratio of air=1.39×10−6), with calculated mantle helium values of 1.4%–25%, whereas, those of the Xishimen skarn iron deposit range from 0.06 to 0.19Ra, with calculated mantle helium of 0.7%–2.2%. The S–He–Ar isotopic data suggest a lower crustal origin for the ore-forming components, with variable inputs of mantle source. The large population of inherited zircons in our samples, with 207Pb/206Pb ages ranging between 2500Ma and 1800Ma, also supports crustal participation. Our data reveal that the Shihu gold deposit witnessed greater mantle input than the Xishimen skarn iron deposit, suggesting that the continental lithosphere is markedly thinner under the Fuping region than that under the Wu''an region. Our interpretation is also supported by published data from two ultra-broadband high-precision magnetotelluric sounding profiles across the TM region showing a variation in the lithosphere thickness from 155km to 70km while moving from the south (Wu''an region) to the north (Fuping region). Our study suggests that inhomogeneous lithospheric thinning in the central NCC occurred at least as early as ca. 130Ma ago. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Radiation-induced skin injury is a common complication of radiotherapy. The RHIZOMA COPTIDIS and COPTIS CHINENSIS aqueous extract (RCE) can ameliorate radiation-induced skin injury in our clinical observation. But, the protective mechanism of RHIZOMA COPTIDIS and COPTIS CHINENSIS in radiation-induced skin injury remains unclear. Methods: In this experiment, we developed a radiation-induced skin injury rat model to study the mechanism. The animals were randomly divided into control group, treatment group, radiation group, and treatment and radiation group. 5 rats in each group were separately executed on 2 d and 49 d post-radiation. The semi-quantitative skin injury score was used to measure skin reactions by unblinded observers, and hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to evaluate the damage areas by irradiation. The MDA content, SOD activity of skin and serum were measured to detect the oxidative stress. Results: Acute skin reactions were caused by a single dose of 45 Gy of ?-ray irradiation, and the skin injury could be found in all rats receiving irradiation based on the observation of HE staining of skin at different time-points, while RCE could significantly ameliorate those changes. The MDA content in serum and skin of control rats was 4.13 ± 0.12 mmol/ ml and 4.95 ± 0.35 mmol/mgprot on 2 d post-radiation. The rats receiving radiation showed an increased content of MDA (5.54 ± 0.21 mmol/ml and 7.10 ± 0.32 mmol/mgprot), while it was 4.57 ± 0.21 mmol/ml and 5.95 ± 0.24 mmol/ mgprot after treated with RCE (p < 0.05). Similar changes of the MDA content could be seen on 49 d post-radiation. However, the SOD activity of rats receiving radiation decreased compared with control group on both time-points, which was inhibited by RCE (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, no valuable changes could be found between control group and treatment group on 2 d and 49 d. Conclusions: Our study provides evidences for the radioprotective role of RCE against radiation-induced skin damage in rats by modulating oxidative stress in skin, which may be a useful therapy for radiation-induced skin injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization is one of the most environmentally damaging of human activities, producing large alterations in ecosystem structure, function, species composition and interactions. In this study, we performed a systematic investigation of the plant species richness and density in the city of Beijing, China. We also assessed which socio-economic factors have most influence on plant diversity. Within the city, we found 551 plant species of 313 genera and 103 families, of which 118 were trees, 99 shrubs, and 296 herbs. Nearly half (48.3 %) of the total plant species were aliens. Species richness and density were positively correlated both for tree/shrub and herb taxa, which indicate that although some species predominate in our study area, there is an important array of species in relation to their densities. As expected, most of the socio-economic variables studied showed to be related to at least one of the four plant diversity variables (i.e., herb richness, herb density, tree/shrub richness, and tree/shrub density). Land-use showed a significant relationship in all four cases, which generally had lower values in cultural and education areas (areas that in Beijing are generally characterized by large extensions of urbanized land). The year of establishment was also largely related to plant diversity, with higher values for recently developed areas. This was an expected result given the dynamics of the urban development of Beijing during the last 60 years, which consisted of intense urban sprawling, followed by more environmentally-friendly urbanization practices during the 2000s related to the greening of the city for the olympic games. This dynamics also explained the negative relationship found between the distance to the city center and both tree/shrub species richness and density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One new genus with a new species assigned to the subfamily Mesohelorinae in the Heloridae, Archaeohelorus hoi, gen. et sp. nov., and two new genera with four new species assigned to the subfamily Mesoserphinae in the Mesoserphidae--Sinoserphus wui gen. et sp. nov.; Sinoserphus shihae, sp. nov.; Sinoserphus lillianae, sp. nov.; and Yanliaoserphus jurassicus, gen. et sp. nov.--are described from the Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of Inner Mongolia, China. Here, we document the earliest fossil records hitherto of helorid and mesoserphid wasps, extending their existence to the Middle Jurassic. It is proposed that Heloridae and Mesoserphidae might have originated from northeastern China. Morphological changes of their antennae, wing venation, and metasoma based on current knowledge are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization is widely recognized as a major factor promoting biological invasions worldwide. In this article, we provide insights into the patterns of biological invasions in Beijing, one of the largest and quickly urbanizing cities of the world, by developing a comprehensive list of naturalized and invasive flora and their associate traits (e.g., distribution, life form, habitat, or geographic origin). One hundred and twelve naturalized (including 48 invasive) plants have been identified within the Beijing Municipality. Most of the naturalized and invasive plants belong to four families (Asteraceae, Poaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Euphorbiaceae) and are annual herbs that preferentially grow in disturbed sites. North and South America are the main contributors to the naturalized and invasive flora of Beijing. As expected, those Beijing districts that have recently experienced the highest human population growth, urban expansion, and the largest economic growth are also those with the highest number of naturalized and invasive species. Urban expansion is predicted to continue in the near term making additional invasions likely that will significantly increase the proportion of introduced species in Beijing's flora. An integrated management strategy for the whole municipality is urgently needed that includes comprehensive scientific research that documents the extent of invasions and their effects on Beijing's economy and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Neoarchean potassic meta-granites occurring in the Huai''an Complex within the north central part of the North China Craton (NCC) comprise leucocratic syenogranites, biotite monzogranites, and garnet-bearing syenogranites. High-pressure garnet–granulites occur as lenses, sheets or dismembered dikes with the granitoids. Here we present SHRIMP zircon U–Pb data from the leucocratic syenogranites which show an age of 2493±6Ma (MSWD=1), and LA-ICP-MS U–Pb data from the biotite-monzogranites and garnet–syenogranites, revealing their formation ages of 2437±10Ma (MSWD=2.0) and 1977–2003Ma, respectively. We also report metamorphic ages of ca. 1800Ma from zircons in the garnet–syenogranites. Geochemical studies show low MgO (0.5–0.06wt.%), Cr (6.19–0.53ppm) and Ni (27.66–2.01ppm) with varying SiO2 (62.3 to 76.8wt.%) contents, indicating their derivation from a crustal source. The leucosyenogranites exhibit elevated positive Eu anomalies with decreasing Sr, Th, U, and bulk REE concentrations, and Th/U ratio, whereas Rb and Ba values increase with decreasing Th/U ratio, indicating fluid–melt interaction. The leucosyenogranites have high Sr and Ba contents and Sr/Y and (La/Yb)N ratios and low Y and HREEs, with zircon εHf(t) values ranging from +1.7 to +5.8 and Hf model ages of 2.60–2.73Ga, reflecting their derivation by partial melting of overthickened juvenile lower crust of eclogitic composition, or an eclogitic mineral assemblage in the residue. Geochemical compositions of the biotite–monzogranites, with positive εNd(t) values (+2.3 to +2.5) and model ages <2.60Ga, indicate that they are evolved partial melts from a thickened juvenile crust of garnet amphibolite composition, or with garnet and amphiboles in the residue, followed by fractionation dominated by plagioclase precipitation. The garnet–syenogranites display variable contents of SiO2 (62.3–72.3wt.%), and relatively high Zr (491–1096ppm), Ga (23.5–31.2ppm), Zn (38–124ppm), Y (34.1–85.6ppm) and Nb (9.4–90.0ppm) abundances with 104 ×Ga/Al ratios of 3.1–4.2. They also possess low Sr (50–161ppm) concentrations and strong negative Eu anomalies. These features, integrated with Nd model ages of 2.46–2.50Ga and relatively constant negative εNd(t) values (−2.5 to −2.9) with increasing SiO2 contents, suggest A-type granitic affinities of intraplate extensional or rift setting with evolution of the magma from partial melts derived from Neoarchean tonalitic rocks. The distinct geochemical features and zircon saturation temperatures of the granitoids are indicative of high melting temperatures (900–1000°C) at relatively low pressures (6–10kbar). Based on previous works and our new data, we link the ca. 2500–2450Ma and 2000Ma magmatic events to a Neoarchean amalgamation of microblocks and Paleoproterozoic mobile belts. The metamorphic ages of 1800–1820Ma might reflect an amphibolite facies retrograde event. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Biodiversity in managed plantations has become an important issue for long-term sustainability of ecosystems. The environmental effects of plantations comprised of fast-growing introduced trees have been vigorously debated. On one hand, monocultures have been said to exhaust resources, resulting in decreased biodiversity. Conversely, it has been stated that monocultures may favor regeneration of undergrowth plants from surrounding forests, increasing biodiversity. In order to clarify the effects of planting Eucalyptus trees on species composition, diversity, and functional type of understory vegetation in Yunnan province, a field trial was implemented to compare Eucalyptus plantations (EPs) with two other local current vegetation types (secondary evergreen forests (SEs), and abandoned farmlands (AFs)). Each vegetation type was sampled in each of three elevational ranges (low = 1,000-1,400 meters above sea level (masl), medium = 1,400-1,800 masl, and high = 1,800-2,200 masl). Sample sites within each elevational range had similar environmental characteristics (slope, aspect, etc.). Thus, we sampled three vegetation types at each of three sites at each of three elevations for a total of 27 plots. We calculated relative abundance and importance value of species and diversity indexes to evaluate differences among local current vegetation types and elevational ranges, employing multivariate ordination analyses and other methods such as Analyses of Variance (ANOVA) and Indicator Species Analysis. We found that fast growing introduced Eucalyptus plantations led to reduced plant diversity in the study area, and that rare or threatened species were recorded almost exclusively in the SE plots, being essentially absent from the EP and AF plots. The understory plant diversity did not correlate with the altitude gradient significantly. Eucalyptus plantations (EPs) have a simpler community structure than that of either secondary evergreen forests (SEs; similar to natural state) or abandoned farmlands (AFs). No variable significantly explained variation of the understory shrub layer, but soil moisture-holding capacity and overstory coverage were significant in explaining variation of the understory herb layer, suggesting that the study of soil physical properties is necessary for better understanding of their importance in Eucalyptus plantations and other local current vegetation types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A special type of repairable meniscal lesion involving the peripheral attachment of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus is commonly associated with anterior cruciate ligament deficiency and is termed a ‘‘ramp lesion.’’ However, there are no previously published articles reporting the epidemiologic characteristics of ramp lesions.Hypothesis: The ramp lesion is a special type of medial meniscal tear with high prevalence associated with anterior cruciate ligament rupture; the prevalence increases with time from anterior cruciate ligament injury. Age and gender are risk factors affecting the prevalence of the ramp lesion.Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods: From April 2002 to October 2007, 868 consecutive knees were diagnosed as having an anterior cruciate ligament injury and received arthroscopic surgery for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. All the patients had verified tears of the ramp area under arthroscopy. The prevalence of the ramp lesion was evaluated retrospectively. Then, all cases were divided into different groups depending on the time interval from anterior cruciate ligament injury to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and other relevant risk factors such as age and gender. The effects of age, gender, and time from injury on the prevalence of ramp lesions were analyzed.Results: Among 868 knees that underwent surgery for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, 144 knees were diagnosed as having a ramp lesion. The mean age was 24.7 years; there were 113 male and 31 female patients. The mean time from injury to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was 27.2 months. The prevalence of ramp lesions was 16.6%, which was analyzed as a logarithmic correlation with time from injury. Patients younger than 30 years of age and male patients had a significantly higher prevalence of ramp lesions.Conclusion: The ramp lesion is a common meniscal injury that can occur at the time of anterior cruciate ligament rupture or as a result of knee laxity associated with anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency. The prevalence of ramp lesion in this patient group was 16.6%, which increased with time until 24 months after initial injury. Patients younger than 30 years of age and male patients had a higher prevalence of ramp lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Language area-related lesion is a serious issue in neurosurgery. Removing the lesion in the language area and at the same time preserving language functions is a great challenge. Aim: In this study, we aimed to screen functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) based task types suitable for activation of Broca and Wernicke areas in Chinese population, characterize lesion properties of functional area of Chinese language in brain, and assess the potential of fMRI-guided neuronavigation in clinical applications. Materials and Methods: Blood oxygen level-dependent fMRI has been used to localize language area prior to operation. We carried out extensive fMRI analyses and conducted operation on patients with lesions in speech area. Results: fMRI tests revealed that the reciting task in Chinese can steadily activate the Broca area, and paragraph comprehension task in Chinese can effectively activate the Wernicke area. Cortical stimulation of patients when being awake during operation validated the sensitivity and accuracy of fMRI. The safe distance between language activation area and removal of the lesion in language area was determined to be about 10 mm. Further investigation suggested that navigation of fMRI combined with diffuse tensor imaging can decrease the incidence of postoperative dysfunction and increase the success rate for complete removal of lesion. Conclusion: Taken together, these findings may be helpful to clinical therapy for language area-related lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cymbidium tortisepalum (Orchidaceae) has been ranked as an endangered (EN) herb species in China. In this study, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of C. tortisepalum var. longibracteatum in order to provide genomic resources helpful for promoting its conservation and garden utilization. The complete plastome is 150,198 bp in length and contains the typical quadripartite structure of angiosperm, including two Inverted Repeat (IRs) regions of 25,682 bp, a Large Single-Copy (LSC) region of 85,035 bp and a Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of 13,799 bp. The plastome contains 111 genes, consisting of 77 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA gene and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of C. tortisepalum var. longibracteatum is 62.90%. The complete plastome sequence of C. tortisepalum var. longibracteatum will provide a useful resource for the conservation and garden utilization of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Orchidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Croton laevigatus grows as an evergreen tree or shrub with 15 meters height. It is distributed in the dense or open forests of Hainan province, China. Here, we report and characterize the complete plastome of C. laevigatus in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its systematics research. The plastome of C. laevigatus is found to possess a total length 162,515 bp with the typical quadripartite structure of angiosperms, contains two Inverted Repeats (IRs) of 26,866 bp, a Large Single-Copy (LSC) region of 90,234 bp and a Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of 18,549 bp. The plastome contains 113 genes, consisting of 79 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes and four unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of C. laevigatus is 64.10%. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that C. laevigatus is close to C. tiglium within Euphorbiaceae in this study. The complete plastome sequence of C. laevigatus will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Euphorbiaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elaeagnus glabra is an evergreen vine or climbing shrub with 5 m height. It is widespread in southern China. It grows in the sunny forests or forest margins below 1000 m a.s.l. In this paper, we report and describe the complete plastome of E. glabra in order to provide useful genomic data for its systematic research. The complete plastome of E. glabra is 152,555 bp with a typical quadripartite structure of angiosperms. It contains two Inverted Repeats (IRs) of 25,918 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) of 82,408 bp, and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,311 bp. The complete plastome contains 129 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the chloroplast genome of E. glabra is 62.90%. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that E. glabra is close to E. loureirii within Elaeagnaceae. The complete plastome of E. glabra will provide useful resources for the development and utilization of this species and the phylogenetic study of Rosales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnolia fordiana var. hainanensis (Dandy) Noot. (Magnoliaceae) is an endemic and ornamental tree distributed in Hainan, China. In this study, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of M. fordiana var. hainanensis in order to provide genomic resources helpful for promoting its conservation and garden utilization. The complete plastome is 160,157 bp in length and contains the typical quadripartite structure of angiosperm, including two Inverted Repeat (IRs) regions of 26,573 bp, a Large Single-Copy (LSC) region of 88,255 bp and a Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of 18,756 bp. The plastome contains 114 genes, consisting of 80 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA gene and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of M. fordiana var. hainanensis is 60.70%. The complete plastome sequence of M. fordiana var. hainanensis will provide a useful resource for the conservation and garden utilization of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Magnoliaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The swing of the main channel of the Qiantang River is controlled by the high-water and low-water changes in the river, as well as the impact of large-scale reclamation of tidal flats. Its evolution in modern times is the result of the combined functions of natural and man-made factors. This paper analyzes the cause of the formation of the South Channel and Xisan Tidal Furrow and proposes the regulation principle of “To regulate the river and reclaim tidal flats by taking the advantage of local topography”. It is suggested to cut off the South Channel and Xisan Tidal Furrow completely to restrict the swing of the main channel and to increase the reclamation area of the tidal flat at the same time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The fault-controlled Taijiying gold deposit was formed by four mineralization stages. • Ore-forming fluids of Taijiying were mainly magmatic water with minor meteoric water. • The ore-forming materials were mainly from magmas of partial melting of lower crust. • Triassic intrusions with developed fault systems might be gold prospective target. Recognition of the sources of metals and fluids is crucial to determine the genesis of gold deposits, especially in distinguishing the orogenic and magmatic hydrothermal deposits. There is no consensus on the source and genetic style of the Mesozoic gold deposits in the North China Craton (NCC). The Taijiying gold deposit in the Chifeng-Chaoyang gold district on the northern margin of the NCC is a medium-sized gold deposit and worth studying for its sources of metals and fluids. It is hosted by amphibole- to granulite-facies metamorphic rocks and Mesozoic intrusions, and controlled by NNE-, NE-trending compressional reverse faults and NW-trending extensional normal faults. The gold mineralization types include auriferous quartz veins and wall rock alterations of phyllic mineralization, pyritization, chloritization, and carbonatization. According to the crosscutting relationships of the veins and the mineral textures within the ore-bearing veins, four mineralization stages are recognized: clouded-white quartz ± pyrite (stage I), gray quartz + pyrite (stage II), quartz + polymetallic sulfides (stage III), and calcite ± quartz (stage IV), among which the stages II and III represent the main gold mineralization stages. The timing of the gold mineralization is constrained to the Middle Triassic by zircon U-Pb ages of a pre-metallogenic diorite (258.0 ± 1.9 Ma) and a ore-related granitic porphyry dike (241.5 ± 2.2 Ma). Three types of fluid inclusions (FIs) in the quartz veins of four stages are identified: vapor-rich (type 1), CO 2 -H 2 O three-phase (type 2), and liquid-rich FIs (type 3). Their trapping temperatures gradually decrease from 352 ℃ (stage I) to 124 ℃ (stage IV), with salinities decreasing from 9.8 to 2.0 wt% NaCl eqv., indicating that the ore-forming fluids belong to a H 2 O-NaCl-CO 2 system. The first three stages were characterized by moderate-high temperatures, a large variation in salinities, akin to those of the magmatic hydrothermal fluids. The H-O isotope compositions from the stage II (δ18Ow = 4.1–4.8‰ and δD = -110 to −87‰) to the stage III (δ18Ow = 3.5 to 3.7‰ and δD = -101 to −98‰), indicate that the ore-forming fluids were mainly magmatic fluids. The δ34S V-CDT (1.7–2.1‰), Pb isotopes (206Pb/204Pb = 15.09–15.90, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.00–15.15, 208Pb/204Pb = 35.76–37.97), and Os isotopes (initial 187Os/188Os = 2.3 ± 1.0) of the Au-bearing pyrite samples at the stages II and III, similar to those of the crust-derived magma, suggest that the gold and other metals were extracted from the partial melting of the lower crust. Accordingly, the Taijiying gold deposit is probably a magmatic hydrothermal deposit. The areas recording the Triassic batholith with a developed fault system would be prospective targets for gold mineralization in the Chifeng-Chaoyang district on the northern margin of the NCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnolia omeiensis is an evergreen tree with 25 meters heights. It is distributed in tropical 1200–1300 m. Mount Emei. And it has been ranked as a CR (Critically Endangered) species in China. Here, we report and characterize the complete plastome of M. omeiensis in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its systematics research. The plastome of M. omeiensis is found to possess a total length 160,021 bp with the typical quadripartite structure of angiosperms, contains two Inverted Repeats (IRs) of 26,336 bp, a Large Single-Copy (LSC) region of 88,061 bp and a Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of 19,288 bp. The plastome contains 114 genes, consisting of 80 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of M. omeiensis is 60.70%. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that M. omeiensis is close to Magnolia yunnanensis within Magnoliaceae in this study. The complete plastome sequence of M. omeiensis will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Magnoliaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salacia amplifolia belongs to Celastraceae. The complete plastome of S.amplifolia is 163,255 bp in length, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 28,932 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 86,856 bp, and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,535 bp. The plastome contains 113 genes, consisting of 79 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of S. amplifolia is 62.50%. The complete plastome sequence of S. amplifolia will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this specie as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Salacia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heliciopsis lobata, National class II rare and Endangered plant protection, is one of the subtropical important medicinal plants. However, its complete plastome information and systematic position are still unknown. In order to enhance the development of its Chinese medicinal value and deepen the study of it, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of H. lobata in an effort to provide genomic resources useful to promoting its medicinal value and systematic research. The complete plastome is 160,961 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,455 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 88,929 bp, and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19,122 bp. The plastome contains 117 genes, consisting of 83 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of H. lobata is 62.00%. The complete plastome sequence of H. lobata will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Proteaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hedyotis ovata is a plant of the family Rubiaceae. So far, there is no study on the genome of H. ovata. Here, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of H. ovata in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its conservation. The complete plastome is 154,560 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,058 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 84,579 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 17,865 bp. The plastome contains 114 genes, consisting of 80 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of H. ovata is 61.90%. The complete plastome sequence of H. ovata will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies for Rubiaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saprosma merrillii is a plant of the family Rubiaceae. So far, there is no study on the genome of S. merrillii. Here, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of S. merrillii in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its conservation. The complete plastome is 155,820 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two Inverted Repeat (IR) regions of 26,228 bp, a Large Single-Copy (LSC) region of 85,625 bp and a Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of 17,739 bp. The plastome contains 114 genes, consisting of 80 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of S. merrillii is 62.50%. The complete plastome sequence of S. merrillii will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies for Rubiaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arisaema ringens is a dioecious herb of the family Araceae. So far, there have been no studies on the genome of A. ringens. Here we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of A. ringens in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its conservation. The complete plastome is 160,792 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two inverted repeat regions of 25,312 bp, a large single copy region of 88,915 bp, and a small single copy region of 21,253 bp. The plastome contains 114 genes, consisting of 80 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes. The overall A/T content in the plastome of A. ringens is 63.50%. The complete plastome sequence of A. ringens will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies for Araceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syzygium forrestii Merr. et Perry is an evergreen broad-leaved tree, 8–15 metres tall. It is mainly distributed in the Southwest of China (Nu river valley to Xishuangbanna area), growing from 800 to 2400 metres above sea level. It grows in the evergreen broad-leaved forest and the hillside shrubbery. It is an endemic plant species in China. At present, it has not been artificially introduced and cultivated. However, its complete plastome information and systematic position is still unknown. Here we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of S. forrestii in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its conservation and systematic research. The complete plastome is 159,996 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,414 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 88,560 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,608 bp. The plastome contains 115 genes, consisting of 81 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA gene and 4 unique rRNA genes (5S rRNA, 4.5S rRNA, 23S rRNA and 16S rRNA). The overall A/T content in the plastome of S. forrestii is 63.10%. The complete plastome sequence of S. forrestii will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Myrtaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heptacodium miconioides Rehd. is a rare and endangered plant species occurring in Anhui, Hubei, and Zhejiang Provinces of China, which is endemic to China. Here, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of H. miconioides in an effort to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its conservation. The complete plastome is 156,313 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 23,904 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 89,760 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,745 bp. The plastome contains 114 genes, comprising 79 unique protein-coding genes, 31 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes (5S rRNA, 4.5S rRNA, 23S rRNA, and 16S rRNA). The overall A/T content in the plastome of D. indica is 61.60%. The complete plastome sequence of H. miconioides will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Caprifoliaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dillenia indica Linn. is an endangered plant species occurring in southern Guangxi province and Yunnan province of China, which has been grown in gardens as an ornamental plant and is widely used in the medical field. Here, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of D. indica to provide genomic resources useful for promoting its conservation. The complete plastome is 159,266 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,457 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 88,305 bp, and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,047 bp. The plastome contains 115 genes, consisting of 81 unique protein-coding genes, 30 unique tRNA genes, and 4 unique rRNA genes (5S rRNA, 4.5S rRNA, 23S rRNA, and 16S rRNA). The overall A/T content in the plastome of D. indica is 63.40%. The complete plastome sequence of D. indica will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Dilleniaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinacanthus nutans (Burm.f.) Lindau. is a medicinal species occurring in southern Guangdong province, Guangxi province, Hainan province and Yunnan province of China, which has been widely used in the medical field. However, its complete plastome information and systematic position are still unknown. In order to enhance the development of its medicinal value, we report and characterize the complete plastid genome sequence of C. nutans in an effort to provide genomic resources useful to promoting its medicinal value and systematic research. The complete plastome is 151,669 bp in length and contains the typical structure and gene content of angiosperm plastome, including two Inverted Repeat (IR) regions of 25,366 bp, a Large Single-Copy (LSC) region of 83,502 bp and a Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of 17,435 bp. The plastome contains 113 genes, consisting of 80 unique protein-coding genes, 29 unique tRNA gene and four unique rRNA genes (5S rRNA, 4.5S rRNA, 23S rRNA and 16S rRNA). The overall A/T content in the plastome of C. nutans is 61.60%. The complete plastome sequence of C. nutans will provide a useful resource for the conservation genetics of this species as well as for the phylogenetic studies of Acanthaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the influence of health education for type 2 diabetic patients with and without coexisting hypertension in routine primary care where intensive educational consultations were absent.Methods: A longitudinal cohort was constructed from 342 diabetic subjects who previously had regular exposure to face-to-face health education delivered quarterly during 2016-2017 under the national basic public health (BPH) service provision in an urbanised township in China. Clinical parameters were retrieved electronically from computerised BPH data platform at prior check-ups (2016-2017) and at the most recent check-up (2019).Results: The satisfactory clinical improvements upon health education were not sustained during subsequent observational years among study subjects. A significant increase in total cholesterol (0.28 mmol/L for between-group net changes, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01-0.55 mmol/L, p = 0.039) were observed in diabetic subjects with coexisting hypertension. Older patients (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.83-0.91, p less than 0.001), males (aOR = 0.50, 95%CI = 0.26-0.98, p = 0.043), and subjects with lower education level (aOR = 0.34, 95%CI = 0.17-0.67, p = 0.002) were less likely to maintain improvement of biomedical parameters.Conclusion: The influence of face-to-face health education may not be prolonged in routine primary care where intensive provisions of educational consultations were less common. Diabetic patients with coexisting hypertension tend to have more difficulties in maintaining optimal lipid profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]