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The South China Sea (SCS) coastlines are particularly vulnerable to tsunamis due to rapid urbanization and dense infrastructures. However, whether the SCS has experienced ocean-wide tsunamis is still under debate. Some geological records from the offshore islands inside the SCS imply a regional tsunami event may have occurred approximately 1000-yr-ago. We address these questions for the first time using forward numerical simulations in the SCS: what source could be responsible for such deposits, how the deposits were formed and at what conditions do the deposits could be preserved? Here, we assume the validity of the tsunami deposit hypothesis and use the forward model COMCOT-SED to investigate if these tsunami deposits can be linked to potential seismogenic tsunami sources inside the SCS, including megathrust earthquakes (Mw8.8–9.2) from the Manila subduction zone (MSZ) and the 1918 Mw7.5 Nan'ao earthquake from the Littoral Fault Zone (LFZ) in the northern continental shelf of the SCS. We also utilize a reported tsunami deposit from Qing'ao Embayment, Nan'ao Island, China, to exemplify the deposit formation process in a typical barrier-low coastal plain system. Quantitative analysis suggests large earthquakes from the MSZ may account for the reported geological deposits. The full-rupture earthquake scenario could best explain the depositions if such extreme case is geophysically and geologically plausible. If not, earthquakes (∼ Mw 9.0) covering the northern (16–23.5°N) or southern portion (14–19°N) of the MSZ could also be suitable candidates. Such great earthquakes can generate large tsunami waves (>7 m) that inundate the Qing'ao Embayment, transporting sediments and leaving tsunami deposits in low-lying areas. Conversely, tsunamis triggered by nearshore earthquakes in the LFZ cannot cause deposition in Qing'ao Embayment. The barrier-low coastal plain system is well-suited for preserving tsunami deposits, which remain unaltered by subsequent tsunami waves. Our findings offer a quantitative reference for paleo-tsunami research in the SCS and enhance global understanding of the tsunami deposition process in barrier-low coastal plain systems. • The full-rupture earthquake (Mw 9.0) from the MSZ best explains the reported plausible tsunami deposits in the South China Sea. • Tsunami waves >7 m generated by MSZ earthquakes could inundate the Qing'ao Embayment anddeposit sediments in low-lying areas. • The barrier-low coastal plain system in Qing'ao Embayment forms favorable conditions to preserve overwash tsunami deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV has been a global success. But little is known about the growth parameters of infants delivered by mothers with HIV or the drug resistance of infants with HIV in China. The study aimed to assess growth parameters and drug resistance in Chinese infants exposed to HIV. Methods: We conducted an 18‐month longitudinal follow‐up study of 3283 infants (3222 without HIV; 61 with HIV) born to mothers with HIV in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region between January 2015 and December 2021. The weight and length of all participants was recorded. In addition, genetic subtypes and drug resistance analysis were performed for infants with HIV. Results: Compared with infants without HIV, those with HIV had significantly lower weight/length Z‐scores, except at 18 months of age. The length/age Z‐scores of infants with HIV was significantly reduced, except at 1 month of age. The weight/age Z‐scores of infants with HIV were significantly lower at all follow‐up time points. The weight/length Z‐scores of male infants without HIV were significantly lower than for female infants without HIV at all follow‐up time points. Male infants without HIV had lower length/age and weight/age Z‐scores than female infants at the remaining follow‐up points, except at 1 month of age. Of a total of 61 infants with HIV, subtype and drug‐resistance data were obtained from 37 (60.66%) samples. Infants with HIV were dominated by the CRF01_AE genotype and showed a diversity of mutation sites dominated by non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the growth of infants exposed to HIV in southwest China and provides detailed information on subtype distribution and drug resistance of those with HIV. Nutritional support and drug‐resistance surveillance for infants exposed to HIV need to be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Evidence on the carcinogenicity of coalmine dust in occupational settings is still conflicting. Therefore, we conducted this research to evaluate the mortality risk of lung cancer for coalminers exposed to occupational dust when compared to population with no or low dust exposure. Methods. Databases of PubMed and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure as well as reference lists were searched updated to September 18, 2020. The enrolled articles should report lung cancer mortality risk for coalminers exposed to occupational dust. Basic information was extracted such as the author and publication year, area and ethnicity, the type and estimates of outcome, duration of follow-up, and the study design. The checklists from Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were used for the assessment of quality and bias risk for descriptive studies, cohort studies, and case control studies, respectively. The overall relative risks were calculated while Begg's and Egger's tests and sensitivity analysis were performed to explore potential heterogeneity sources. Metaregression and subgroup analyses were also conducted to give more detailed information for the correlation between dust exposure and lung cancer mortality. Results. A total of 19 articles with 22 different studies (descriptive study, case control study, and cohort study) including 8909 observed deaths from 1964 to 2017 were enrolled with a significant heterogeneity ( I 2 = 95 % , P < 0.001). The pooled relative risk of mortality from lung cancer was 1.16 (1.03-1.30) for coalminers. Results of metaregression analysis indicated that the high heterogeneity among these enrolled studies might be caused by the ethnicity differences (P = 0.011). Subgroup analysis also indicated that the pooled estimate for Asian population in China was 4.94 (3.95-6.17) with I 2 = 39.3 % and P = 0.192. All these results suggested that exposure to occupational dust would significantly increase the mortality risk of lung cancer, especially for Asian population in China, which should be measured and controlled more strictly. Discussion. This systematic review and meta-analysis provides high-quality evidence that exposure to occupational dust might increase the mortality risk of lung cancer, especially for Asian populations in China. The magnitude of this effect is of major public health importance in view of the ubiquitous existence of coalmining industry in China and even in the world. However, these pooled estimates should be interpreted cautiously because of the high heterogeneity among these publications. Other. This study was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (Grant No. 2016YFC1302501). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

18th China Drying Conference & 1st Postgraduate Academic Forum in Drying Field, Luoyang, P.R. China, September 26-28, 2021 During September 26-28, 2021, the 18 SP th sp China Drying Conference & 1 SP st sp Postgraduate Academic Forum in Drying Field, hosted by the Drying Professional Group of Chemical Engineering Committee of Chinese Chemical Society, organized by Henan University of Science and Technology, and co-organized by Drying Equipment Branch of China General Machinery Industry Association, was successfully held in Luoyang, China (Figure 1). The China Drying Conference, initiated by the Drying Professional Group of Chemical Engineering Professional Committee of the Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China in 1975, has become an important platform to disseminate latest research achievements in the drying field in China with several decades of development. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: This study focuses on the Cenozoic provenance and tectonic evolution of the southwestern Qaidam Basin through geochemical analysis of detrital garnet, tourmaline and rutile. The variation of detrital mineral compositions indicates that the Cenozoic evolution can be divided into three stages: (i) before the deposition of the upper Xiaganchaigou Formation (before 37.8 Ma); (ii) between the deposition of the upper Xiaganchaigou Formation and the Shangganchaigou Formation (from 37.8 to 22 Ma); (iii) since the deposition of the Xiayoushashan Formation (since 22 Ma). In the first stage, abundant garnets from high‐grade meta‐basic and ultramafic rocks in the sediments from the Ganchaigou area support a provenance from the South Altyn Tagh HP/UHP metamorphic zone. The low percentage of tourmalines from granitoid rocks in the sediments in the Kunbei‐Lücaotan area suggests a provenance from the East Kunlun fault zone, indicating that the Qimen Tagh Shan was not high enough to prevent the transport of sediments from the southern Qaidam Basin. The sediments in the Qigequan area were derived from both the Altyn Tagh fault zone and the East Kunlun fault zone. In the second stage, the tectonic activity consisted in the rapid uplift of the Altyn Shan. Changes in garnet composition indicate a lower detrital contribution from high‐grade metamorphic rocks. In the third stage, the disappearance of garnets from high‐grade metamorphic rocks and scattered temperatures of rutiles in the Ganchaigou area suggest that the source area shifted from the South Altyn Tagh HP/UHP metamorphic rocks to weakly metamorphosed Meso‐Neoproterozoic sedimentary rocks. The increase in granitoid‐derived tourmalines in the Kunbei‐Lücaotan area is indicative of the rapid uplift of the Qimen Tagh Shan. The provenance evolution in the southwestern Qaidam Basin indicates that the tectonic activity along the Altyn Tagh fault zone can be divided into an early stage of Altyn Shan uplift and a later stage of left‐lateral slip. At the same time, tectonic movement along the East Kunlun fault zone initiated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Source apportionment is crucial to the prevention and control of heavy metals in the soil. The major methods focus on the identification of soil heavy metals from different pollution sources. However, they are unsuited to the source apportionment at a regional scale due to ignoring the spatial heterogeneity of heavy metal content caused by soil formation. Thus, we built a source apportionment model by introducing the weathering and leaching coefficients as the key parameters of soil-forming processes. In this study, we selected Liaohe Plain in China as the study area, which was the starting point of China's industrial development, with dense industrial areas and high levels of heavy-metal emission. Heavy metals concentrations in surface and deep soil of reference and grid points were collected as model data. The results showed that the average contribution rates of soil-forming process to Cd, Hg, As, and Pb were 82.7%, 85.2%, 88.6%, and 91.7%, respectively, and those of anthropogenic activities were 17.3%, 14.8%, 11.4%, and 8.3%, respectively. Spatial distribution of contribution rates showed the superposition of soil environmental background and pollution sources. This study provides a feasible method to quantify heavy metals contents from natural and anthropogenic sources at a regional scale. [Display omitted] • Source apportionment was built for heavy metal of surface soil at regional scale. • Data contained heavy metals in surface and deep soil of reference and grid point. • Nature source content was estimated by weathering and leaching of reference point. • Anthropogenic content was calculated by regression coefficient and grid point value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To elucidate the relationship between particle-attached (PA, ≥5.0 μm) and free-living (FL, 0.2-5.0 μm) bacterial communities, samplings were collected seasonally from November 2011 to August 2012 in Meiliang Bay, Lake Taihu, China. We used 454 pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA genes to study bacterial diversity and structure of PA and FL communities. The analysis rendered 37 985 highly qualified reads, subsequently assigned to 1755 operational taxonomic units (97% similarity) for the 8 samples. Although 27 high-level taxonomic groups were obtained, the 3 dominant phyla ( Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes) comprised about 75.9% and 82.4% of the PA and FL fractions, respectively. Overall, we found no significant differences between community types, as indicated by ANOSIM R statistics ( R = 0.063, P > 0.05) and the Parsimony test ( P = 0.222). Dynamics of bacterial communities were correlated with changes in concentrations of total suspended solids (TSS) and total phosphorus (TP). In summer, a significant taxonomic overlap in the 2 size fractions was observed when Cyanobacteria, a major contributor of TSS and TP, dominated in the water, highlighting the potential rapid exchange between PA and FL bacterial populations in large shallow eutrophic lakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial trade of wild birds may devastate wild bird populations. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) controls the trade of wild species listed in its appendices to avoid these species being threatened by international trade. China used to be one of the major trading countries with significant bird trade with foreign countries; on the other hand, China is a country with unique avian fauna, many Important Bird Areas and critically endangered bird species. What is the role of the country in world wild bird trade? What kind of insights can we extract from trade records for improving future management of wild bird trade in the country? We retrieved and analyzed international trade records of the CITES listed bird species of China from 1981 to 2010 from the CITES Trade Database maintained by United Nations Environment Program and World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC). We found that: (1) International trade of live birds in China peaked during the late 1990s, then decreased to the level before the surge of trade in a few years, the trade dynamics of wild birds may be affected by governmental policy and the outbreak of avian influenza during the period. (2) Most frequently traded CITES Appendix listed birds in China were parrots, most of which were exotic species to the country. (3) Birds were mainly traded for commercial purpose. Exotic birds in trade were mainly captive-bred while the most Chinese birds traded internationally were captured from the wild. Since many bird species in international trade are threatened to extinction, China should take stricter measures on importing of wild-captured birds and should collaborate with the countries of original in the international bird trade to avoid unsustainable harvesting of wild birds. It is urgent for China to carry out population surveys on those domestic bird species once in significant international trade and to make better conservation decisions based on population status of those birds. In addition, more scientific researchers should be encouraged to participate in the wildlife trade management to avoid misreporting trade data or biased analyses of the trade records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: We aimed to replicate the association of the rs290487 (IVS3C/T) and rs7903146 (IVS3C/T) polymorphisms of transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Han Chinese people in Henan province, China. Methods: In all, 1,842 patients with T2DM and 7,777 normal glucose-tolerant controls underwent genotyping for the T2DM-associated variants rs7903146 (IVS3C/T) and rs290487 (IVS3C/T). W performed a meta-analysis of the association of the risk alleles of rs7903146 (IVS3C/T) and rs290487 (IVS3C/T) in TCF7L2 and T2DM in Han Chinese by combining previous studies with the present study. Results: We found that T2DM was associated with the CC genotype (1.364, 1.137–1.636, p  = 0.001), the recessive model (1.457, 1.156–1.838, p  = 0.001) of rs290487 (IVS3C/T) and haplotype CC (1.116, 1.034–1.204, p  = 0.004) in Han Chinese. Moreover, our meta-analyses supported the association of the T allele (IVS3C/T) of rs7903146 (1.36, 1.24–1.48; p  = 6.404×10−12) and T2DM but not the C allele of rs290487 (IVS3C/T) (0.99, 0.85–1.15, p  = 0.890) in Han Chinese. We found no interactions between behavioral risk factors (smoking, alcohol drinking, and physical activity) and rs7903146 (IVS3C/T) and rs290487 (IVS3C/T) polymorphisms. Conclusions: The CC genotype and the recessive model of the variant rs290487 (IVS3C/T) and CC haplotype of rs7903146 (IVS3C/T) and rs290487 (IVS3C/T) in TCF7L2 may be associated with T2DM in Han Chinese people in Henan province, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Twenty-seven strains of avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) were isolated from dead or diseased chickens at different chicken farms in South China during 2004–2008, of which the S1 gene was sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis of the S1 gene sequences of the isolated 27 strains together with 29 strains published in Genbank revealed that all IBV strains except for one isolated and one published were clustered into six distinct genotypes I-VI. 26 isolated strains belong to genotypes I, II, and III, forming a big phylogenetic branch without new predominant strains, whereas all five vaccine strains belong to genotype V that is evolutionarily distant from genotypes I, II, and III. The study of the protease cleavage motif within the S1 protein found 12 different cleavage motifs, of which 3 motifs are shared by both isolated and published strains, 2 motifs unique to isolated strains, and 7 motifs unique to published strains, further bolstering the notion of no new predominant strains. Alignment analysis of the S1 amino acid sequences indicated that the amino acid substitutions, insertions, and deletions are polymorphic and diverse, showing no sign of predominant genetic changes among the isolated strains. Taken together, there was no predominant new strain circulating in South China during 2004–2008. Nonetheless, circulating IBV strains have been continuously evolving with genetic compositions distant from vaccine strains; this explains why there have been constant but infrequent outbreaks in commercial flocks in South China during 2004–2008. Furthermore, in order to safe guard against the sudden emergence of new predominant strains, continuing surveillance of IBV strains circulating in the field is of extreme importance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Organochlorine pesticides legacies, such as hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), remained in sediments or soils due to their difficulty in decomposition, especially in the agricultural areas where pesticides were widely used historically. Different from the little disturbed depositional environment of lake, it was difficult for rivers to explore the timing of DDT and HCH inputs through dating sediment cores as records. Based on groundwater dating, this study ascertained the historic pollution of DDT and HCH in Taizi River basin. HCH and DDT residues in groundwater were consistent with the historical production and usage, which increased from the 1950s to the 1980s and declined from the 1980s to the 1990s. Moreover, the partitioning behaviours of HCHs and DDTs in surface water and suspended particulate matter were discussed. It was revealed that β -HCH and o,p' -DDT were more likely to attach to suspended particulate matter than other isomers. Furthermore, species sensitivity distribution curves were generated using 54 toxicity data records to assess the risk of HCHs and DDTs in water and suspended particulate matter. These results indicated that p,p'-DDT in surface water posed a high risk to 95% of the aquatic life in the long run. • HCHs and DDTs residual history were obtained by groundwater dating using CFC-12. • TOC and flow velocity significantly affect partitioning under certain conditions. • HCHs and DDTs historical residues originated from the 1950s– 1990s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• C-terminally truncated E protein, prM-E and E proteins were constructed and applied as subunit vaccine candidates. • The constructed proteins could induce specific antibody responses and provide full protection against DTMUV infection. • The truncated E protein was suggested to be able to serve as a practical subunit vaccine candidate. Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) is a major pathogen of duck industry in China. In the current study, we generated different constructs containing envelope (E) protein, pre-membrane-envelope (prM-E) protein, and C-terminally truncated E protein of the DTMUV. The constructed proteins could induce specific antibody responses in young ducks. When ducklings were immunized with the constructed proteins, they were 100% protected against DTMUV infection. Furthermore, the fluorescent signal of the truncated E protein was stronger than other constructed proteins, when Bac-to-Bac baculovirus expression system was applied. Our data demonstrated that the truncated E protein used in the current study could be applied as a potential vaccine candidate to control DTMUV infection in young ducks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The chimeric VLPs, designated as E-HA2, contains E protein of the DTMUV and HA2 protein of the H3N2 AIV. • The chimeric VLPs E-HA2 could induce specific antibody responses in both mice and ducks. • The chimeric VLPs E-HA2 could provide 100% protection against homologous virus infection. Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) has caused enormous economic losses to the poultry industry in China. In the current study, we generated chimeric virus-like particles (VLPs) containing E protein of the DTMUV and HA2 protein of the H3N2 avian influenza virus (AIV). The chimeric VLPs could induce specific antibody responses in both mice (n = 5/group) and ducks (n = 10/group). After immunizing ducklings with the chimeric VLPs, all immunized ducks (n = 10/group) were 100% (10/10) protected against homologous DTMUV strain and virus shedding was not detected on day 5 post-challenge, whereas 60% (6/10) of the ducklings immunized with PBS presented typical symptoms with a virus shedding rate of 90% (9/10). Furthermore, viral loads were significantly decreased in the birds of the chimeric VLPs immunized group, comparing to that of the PBS immunized group. Our data demonstrated that the chimeric VLPs used in the current study could be applied as a potential vaccine candidate to control DTMUV infections in young ducks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the study which examines the state of vocational schools in China and urban youth.

As a traditional method for palaeoseismic studies, trenching can be combined with dating techniques to identify palaeoseismic events and the earthquake recurrence interval. However, when using trenches to study palaeoearthquakes, factors such as the active tectonic background of the earthquake‐caused structure, the lithology on both sides of the fault, the geomorphology location and type and the samples and methods for dating will affect the location of the trench. Thus, trenches should be carefully selected and used to identify the impact of ancient earthquakes. The results have substantial uncertainties and limitations. In recent years, scholars have made considerable progress in using other methods to reveal the palaeoseismic information of faults. Moreover, the history of fault activity may have been recorded in the lacustrine sediment adjacent to the fault. Hasuhai Lake is adjacent to the middle segment of the Daqingshan piedmont fault in Inner Mongolia. Since the Holocene, the region has experienced a temperate continental semi‐arid climate with little interference, and Hasuhai Lake and peripheral waters present weak hydrodynamic conditions that provide an ideal location for the study of palaeoseismic records in lacustrine sediments. Sediment samples and samples for dating were collected from three trenches excavated on the periphery of the Hasuhai Lake. Their variations in grain size and magnetic susceptibility revealed that wind and flowing water jointly produced the sedimentary conditions of Hasuhai sediments. The 14C dating results and variations in the grain size distribution, grain size components and magnetic susceptibility of sediments caused by seismic events obtained in this study were compared with those caused by a series of palaeoseismic events at the middle segment of the Daqingshan piedmont fault reported by previous studies using trenches, knickpoints and palaeosol records. The results identified seven palaeoseismic events recorded near Hasuhai Lake since 12,000 years. The combined use of lacustrine sediment variation characteristics and dating techniques is an effective method for studying palaeoseismic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grassland is not only an important part of the terrestrial ecosystem with multiple ecological functions, but also an important base for Chinese herdsmen to produce and live. However, the occurrence and spread of rodent infestation reduces the biodiversity and productivity of grassland ecosystems. It also severely threatens human life, health, and biosecurity through disease transmission. In this study, we explored the ability of the nanocomposite sterilant ND-1 to control grassland rodent populations. Semi-closed experimental and control plots were established in the desert area of Alashan, Inner Mongolia, China. In spring 2018, the nanocomposite sterile ND-1 (Nongda-1) was introduced once, and the control effect of ND-1 on the growth of the wild population of midday gerbils was measured for two years. We show that ND-1 significantly reduced the population of midday gerbils in the experimental area, with a negative population growth rate. In addition, in the second year, the ratio of female midday gerbils to sub-adults in the experimental area was significantly lower than that in the control area, which resulted in a significant difference in the sex ratio of midday gerbils. There were significantly fewer females than males, and the population growth of midday gerbils in the experimental area was significantly inhibited. ND-1 had no significant effect on the home range of midday gerbils, and sterile individuals continued to occupy the home range and consume resources. Therefore, ND-1 reduced the number of female midday gerbils during the breeding period and the sex ratio and population density and altered the age structure of the wild population. Additionally, competition between sterile and normal individuals had a significant control effect on the growth of wild populations. Our studies demonstrate the significance of ND-1 in the sustainable control of grassland rodent pests, with the potential for limiting grassland rodent damage in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought and hot stresses are the primary limiting factors for the growth and seed production of yellow-horn (Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge), especially in Xinjiang Province of China. A better understanding of its physiological and biochemical characteristics under drought–hot stress is requisite for its efficient cultivation in the arid and semi-arid areas. In this study, the physiological and biochemical responses of 3-month-old yellow-horn seedlings were evaluated after 7 days of treatments of five temperatures (25 °C/20 °C, 30 °C/25 °C, 35 °C/25 °C, 40 °C/25 °C and 45 °C/25 °C) under two watering conditions [adequate water supply (HW): 80 ± 5% FC (field capacity); low water supply (LW): 40 ± 5% FC] by a pot experiment. The increased temperature (above to 35 °C) markedly aggravated the damage on biomass accumulation and membrane integrity of yellow-horn seedlings under the LW. The accumulation of soluble sugars and proteins exhibited a growing trend as the temperature increased from 25 to 40 °C, which declined when the temperature was higher than 40 °C except for the soluble protein accumulation under HW. In addition, captured responsive characteristics of the gas-exchange parameters and chlorophyll fluorescence have indicated that the combinations of high temperature (above to 35 °C) and LW induced significant decrease in photosynthetic activities of yellow-horn seedlings. All these results showed that the hot stress significantly aggravated the drought damage on yellow-horn plant growth, especially when the temperature increased above 35 °C under drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenza C virus (ICV) was identified in five pediatric acute respiratory cases in Shandong. Co-infection with other respiratory viruses was detected in four of these cases. Two ICV genomes were obtained and clustered in the S1-sublineage of C/Sao Paulo/378/82, indicating that genetically diverse ICV strains have been circulating in mainland China. • Influenza C viruses of the S1-sublineage of C/Sao Paulo were reported in China. • Co-infection with other respiratory viruses was detected. • Genetically diverse ICV strains have been circulating undetected in mainland China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the recent prevalence and the distributions of morphological subtypes of anaemia in the rural population. Design: Anaemia was defined according to the WHO and the Chinese criteria, and the morphological subtypes of anaemia were classified based on the erythrocyte parameters. The age-standardised prevalence was calculated according to the data of the Population Census 2010 in China. Setting: A cross-sectional study in Henan Province. Participants: 33 585 subjects aged 18–79 years old. Results: The standardised prevalence of anaemia across the WHO and the Chinese definitions was 13·63 % and 5·45 %, respectively. Regardless of which criteria was used, the standardised prevalence of anaemia was higher among women than among men and that increased with age in men, while markedly decreased after menopause in women. There were shifts in morphological patterns of anaemia using the WHO and the Chinese criteria that the standardised prevalence of microcytic anaemia was 3·74 % and 2·97 %, normocytic anaemia was 9·20 % and 2·34 %, and macrocytic anaemia was 0·75 % and 0·14 %, respectively. Besides, there were differences in the influencing factors of anaemia according to different criteria or gender. However, age, education level and renal damage were consistently significantly associated with anaemia in all participants. Conclusions: Anaemia may still be a serious health problem in rural China. It is necessary to reformulate prevention and management strategies to reduce the disease burden of anaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing both carbon (C) sequestration and food production is essential for a sustainable future. However, increasing soil C sequestration or graining yield/quality in rice (Oryza sativa L.) systems has been a tradeoff in that pursuing one goal may compromise the other goal. Field experiments were designed to evaluate methane emission and grain yield in two rice systems in southern China, including the traditional double rice with a seedling transplanting system and innovative ratoon rice with a direct seeding system. Grain yield, grain quality, methane (CH 4) emission, and total organic carbon (TOC) loss rate were investigated, and yield-scaled CH 4 gas emission was assessed. It is found that double rice has a higher grain yield than ratoon rice. However, the grain quality (processing, appearance of chalkiness degree and chalky grain percentage, and nutritional quality) of ratoon rice is superior to double rice, especially the ratoon crop. The yield-scaled CH 4 emission of ratoon rice (0.06 kg kg−1) decreased by 49.29% than double rice (0.12 kg kg−1) throughout the growth period. Compared with the TOC loss rate of double rice (2.95 g kg−1), the rate of ratoon rice was lower (1.97 g kg−1). As a result, ratoon rice with direct seeding can not only improve grain quality but also mitigate yield-scaled CH 4 gas emission and TOC loss rate of rice fields. Therefore, we suggest to use ratoon rice with a direct seeding technique to promote agricultural C sequestration. • Highlights (for review). • Ratoon rice with direct seeding decreased the yield-scaled CH 4 gas emission. • Ratoon rice with direct seeding mitigated the soil TOC loss rate. • Ratoon rice with direct seeding increased the grain quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since July 2020, an infectious disease characterized by liver and spleen white focal necrosis has been spreading widely through geese farms in many regions of China. A novel goose orthoreovirus (GRV), designated GRV‐GD2020, was isolated from the liver and spleen of dead geese. Phylogenetic analysis and sequence comparison revealed that all the genes of GRV‐GD2020 clustered with other waterfowl‐origin orthoreovirus. However, the gene constellation of GRV‐GD2020 was not similar to that of any particular strain. Instead, the genomic segments of GRV‐GD2020 showed 27.5–97.3% similarities to that of other waterfowl‐origin orthoreovirus isolates. Waterfowl‐origin orthoreovirus infections characterized by liver and spleen focal necrosis had not emerged in recent years. The re‐emergence of the disease may be related to the recombination of the genome segments of Muscovy duck reovirus (MDRV), GRV, and new‐type duck orthoreovirus. In summary, we determined that the GRV‐GD2020 strain, causing goose liver and spleen focal necrosis, is a new variant of waterfowl‐origin orthoreovirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to raise the international reputation and quality of higher education in China, the Ministry of Education initiated new university employment reform, which pressed academics to produce more research. Recent employment reform has aggravated the conflict between teaching and research. This study uses mixed methods to investigate how academics perceived the employment reform and how they employed various strategies to handle teaching and research. Our study indicates a trend of deprofessionalization in academic work and an increasing tension between teaching and research. Handling teaching and research required a strong and conscientious effort on the part of academics. Concerted efforts should be made to offer a more supportive environment for academics to balance teaching and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A significant shift in meal pattern with frequent eating out was closely associated with multiple chronic outcomes, but with limited evidence on hyperuricemia. We aimed to explore the associations between eating out and serum uric acid (SUA) as well as hyperuricemia. Methods: A total of 29,597 participants were recruited from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to collect dietary data, including the frequency of eating out. Linear regression models were used to examine the association of eating-out frequency with SUA and BMI. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline were performed to assess the association and dose–response relationship between eating-out frequency and hyperuricemia. The mediation effect of BMI between eating out and the risk of hyperuricemia was evaluated. Results: Eating out was significantly associated with higher SUA levels in the total population and males (P < 0.001). Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CIs) of hyperuricemia were 1.26 (1.09, 1.46) for the total population and 1.18 (1.00, 1.40) for males (≥ 7 times/week vs 0 time/week). A non-linear positive dose–response relationship between eating-out frequency and hyperuricemia was observed. Furthermore, BMI played a partial mediating role in the relationship between eating out frequency and hyperuricemia, which explained 30.7% in the total population and 44.8% in males. Conclusion: Our findings indicated that eating out was associated with increased SUA levels and elevated hyperuricemia risk in rural China, especially in males. Moreover, the relationship was partly mediated by BMI. Clinical trials: ChiCTR-OOC-15006699 (2015-07-06). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the northern region of the South China Sea, located at the intersection of the continental shelf and slope, there have been recorded four earthquakes with magnitudes M ≥ 6.0. This pattern of seismic activity suggests the presence of a previously unidentified active submarine fault. Notably, no active faults have been documented in this area prior to our investigation, with earlier studies predominantly focusing on the structural morphology and sedimentary basin evolution associated with the South China Sea's spreading phenomenon. Through the examination of seismic profiles and historical earthquake records, we have identified a newly discovered fault, termed the Slope Fault Zone (SFZ). The SFZ exhibits diverse structural components, including a listric normal fault in the western sector and a strike-slip fault zone in the eastern sector. Analysis of shallow seismic profiles and borehole data has revealed that the SFZ intersects with strata from the late Pleistocene epoch, confirming its classification as an active fault. The derived fault parameters indicate that the western segment of the SFZ has the potential to generate earthquakes of considerable magnitude, ranging from M 6.7 to 7.2. Furthermore, given the significant occurrence of submarine landslides along the southern boundary of the SFZ, there exists a risk that such seismic events could trigger slope failures and subsequent tsunamis. In summary, our research has unveiled the presence of an active fault capable of precipitating submarine earthquakes, landslides, and tsunamis. • An unreported marine fault in the northern South China Sea is discovered and named SFZ. • The Pearl River Mouth segment of the SFZ was active since 120,000 years ago. • The Pearl River Mouth segment of the SFZ can produce Mw 6.7–7.2 earthquake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Studies have found that a plant‐based diet was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, but evidence is scarce on such associations in China. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a plant‐based diet is related to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes among Chinese adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 37,985 participants were enrolled from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. An overall plant‐based diet index (PDI) was created by assigning positive and reverse scores to 12 commonly consumed food groups. Multivariate logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline analysis were performed to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: After multivariable adjustment, the risk of type 2 diabetes was inversely associated with the PDI (extreme‐quartile OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.79–0.98; P = 0.027), the risk associated with a 1 standard deviation (SD) increase in PDI was 4% lower (95% CI, 0.93–1.00; P trend = 0.043) for type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the odds of type 2 diabetes was decreased with an increment of PDI after fitting restricted cubic splines (Ptrend < 0.01). Conclusions: Among Chinese populations, diets higher in plant foods and lower in animal foods were associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the occurrence of fowl adenovirus 2 (FAdV-2) has been on the rise in China, posing a significant threat to the poultry industry. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology, phylogenetic relationship, genomic characteristics, and pathogenicity of FAdV-2. The epidemiological analysis revealed the detection of multiple FAdV serotypes, including FAdV-1, FAdV-2, FAdV-3, FAdV-4, FAdV-8a, FAdV-8b, and FAdV-11 serotypes. Among them, FAdV-2 exhibited the highest proportion, accounting for 21.05% (8/38). The complete genomes of these 8 FAdV-2 strains were sequenced. Genetic evolution analysis indicated that these FAdV-2 strains formed a separate branch within the FAdV-D group, sharing 94.60 to 97.90% nucleotide similarity with the reference FAdV-2 and FAdV-11 strains. Notably, the recombination analysis revealed that 5 out of the 8 FAdV-2 strains, exhibited recombination events between FAdV-2 and FAdV-11. The recombination regions involved Hexon, Fiber, ORF19 genes and 3′ end. Furthermore, pathogenicity experiments demonstrated that recombinant FAdV-2 XX strain is capable of inducing mortality rate of 66.70% and causing more severe hepatitis hydropericardium syndrome (HHS) in 6-wk-old specific-pathogen-free chickens. These findings contribute to our understanding of the prevalence, genomic characteristics, and the pathogenicity of FAdV-2, providing foundations for FAdV-2 vaccine development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lianfeng fault zone is located at the junction of the Daliangshan subblock and the South China block and is the southern boundary of the Daliangshan subblock. It is a very active tectonic area, which is of great significance to understanding its seismogenic environment. However, there are relatively little existing data on its activity and the timing of its latest activity. In the Jinyang-Ningnan segment of the Lianfeng fault zone along the Jinsha River, remote sensing image interpretation, field geologic surveys, high-precision drone measurements, and sample dating indicate that the river terraces T1 (the lowest, 15–40 m above the local river level) and T2 (60–90 m above the local river level) developed in the mid-Holocene and late Pleistocene. This indicates that the Jinsha River basin has been strongly downcutting since the Late Pleistocene. The fault profiles are mainly exposed in the T1 and T2 terraces of the Jinsha River. Based on this information in combination with the fault characteristics of the sedimentary profile and stratigraphic dating, it is believed that the Lianfeng fault zone was active at least along the Jinyang-Ningnan segment, with the latest activity occurring no earlier than the early to mid-Holocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health challenges that affect all groups of persons. This study examines the association between type 2 diabetes and depressive symptoms (using PHQ-2) in a rural population. Other risk factors of depressive symptoms are examined.Methods: Data from 30,001 participants from the Henan rural cohort was analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between depressive symptoms (DS) and type 2 diabetes and other risk factors. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with confidence intervals (CI) at 95% are reported.Results: The prevalence of DS in the study population is 5.86%, 6.69% in women, 4.74% in men, 5.80% in persons without diabetes and 6.81% in persons with diabetes (diagnosed and undiagnosed). DS prevalence was highest in persons with previously diagnosed diabetes (8.27%). No association was found between DS and diabetes (aOR = 0.95, CI at 95% 0.61-1.48; p=0.836). DS was associated with poor glycemic control (aOR=1.43, CI at 95% 1.04- 1.98; p= 0.034) in persons with previously diagnosed diabetes, persons with elevated triglycerides (aOR=1.19, CI at 95% 1.08-1.30; p<0.001), household income (aOR= 0.78, CI at 95% 0.63-0.97; p=0.027), marital status (aOR=1.37, CI at 95% 1.01-1.88, p=0.049) and hypertension treatment with medication (aOR=1.94, CI at 95% 1.48-2.55; p<0.001).Limitations: DS was assessed through self-report and may suffer recall or information bias.Conclusions: DS was not associated with diabetes in our study population. The association between poor glycemic control and DS calls for the integration of screening for depression among patients with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of gene-environment interaction on diabetes remains largely unknown. We aimed to investigate if interaction between glucose metabolizing genes and lifestyle factors is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Interactions between genotypes of 4 glucose metabolizing genes ( MTNR1B, KCNQ1, KLF14, and GCKR) and lifestyle factors were estimated in 722 T2DM patients and 759 controls, using multiple logistic regression. No significant associations with T2DM were detected for the single nucleotide polymorphisms of MTNR1B, KLF14 and GCKR. However, rs151290 ( KCNQ1) polymorphisms were found to be associated with risk of T2DM. Compared with AA, the odds ratios (ORs) of AC or CC genotypes for developing T2DM were 1.545 ( P = 0.0489) and 1.603 ( P = 0.0383), respectively. In stratified analyses, the associations were stronger in smokers with CC than smokers with AA (OR = 3.668, P = 0.013); drinkers with AC (OR = 5.518, P = 0.036), CC (OR = 8.691, P = 0.0095), and AC+CC (OR = 6.764, P = 0.016) than drinkers with AA. Compared with nondrinkers with AA, drinkers who carry AC and CC had 12.072-fold ( P = 0.0007) and 8.147-fold ( P = 0.0052) higher risk of developing T2DM. In conclusions, rs151290 ( KCNQ1) polymorphisms are associated with increased risk of T2DM, alone and especially in interaction with smoking and alcohol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To investigate whether impaired fasting glucose (IFG) is an independent risk factor for incident hypertension in a rural Chinese population.Methods: We selected 9583 eligible participants 18 to 75years old, who were without hypertension and diabetes at baseline (from 2007 to 2008) and were from a rural area in the middle of China. Concentration of fasting glucose at baseline was assessed in quartiles to predict hypertension risk by gender. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for IFG (fasting glucose of 100 to 125mg/dl) associated with hypertension were estimated by logistic regression models.Results: Risk of hypertension was increased for females with glucose levels in quartile 2 (90-96mg/dl), quartile 3 (96-102mg/dl), and quartile 4 (102-125mg/dl) versus quartile 1 (<90mg/dl): OR=1.27 (95% CI=1.01-1.60), 1.30 (1.04-1.63), and 1.55 (1.24-1.93), respectively. During the 6-year follow-up, the cumulative incidence of hypertension was greater for people with IFG than normal fasting glucose (NFG) at baseline (23.9% vs 18.4%, p<0.001 for males and 23.8% vs 16.4%, p<0.001 for females). Risk of incident hypertension was significantly increased for females with IFG versus NFG (OR=1.23 95% CI=1.05-1.45).Conclusions: IFG may be an independent risk factor for hypertension in normotensive nondiabetic Chinese females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybridization is a widely used and effective method in grouper breeding. In this study, we constructed full-sib families of brown-marbled grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus), Jinhu grouper (E. fuscoguttatus ♀ × E. tukula ♂), and Hulong grouper (E. fuscoguttatus ♀ × E. lanceolatus ♂) and compared the growth characteristics under industrial conditions. The body weight of Jinhu grouper was 1.49 times that of Hulong grouper (P < 0.05) and the body weight of Jinhu grouper was 2.03 times that of E. fuscoguttatus (P < 0.05). Moreover, the survival rate of Jinhu grouper was significantly higher than those of Hulong grouper and E. fuscoguttatus (P < 0.05). The relationships between body length and body weight (W = aLb) in Jinhu grouper, Hulong grouper, and E. fuscoguttatus were similar, and both Jinhu grouper and Hulong grouper may inherit the growth pattern of E. fuscoguttatus. The b values were all <3, indicating allometric relationships at this stage. In a comparison of the low temperature tolerance, E. fuscoguttatus and Jinhu grouper stopped feeding at 19 °C and 16 °C, respectively, and 11 °C and 9 °C were the half-lethal temperatures, respectively. A histopathological analysis showed that the degree of damage in the gill, muscle, and liver tissues increased as the temperature decreased. The activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the liver decreased initially and then increased as the temperature decreased. The malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in the liver increased initially and decreased thereafter. Lysozyme (LZM) activity in the serum increased initially and then decreased, and immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels did not vary significantly with respect to temperature (P > 0.05). In conclusion, Jinhu grouper was characterized by a rapid growth rate, high survival rate, and low temperature resistance. This hybrid grouper is suitable for industrial culture in China, with broad potential applications • Growth and survival were better in Jinhu grouper than in E. fuscoguttatus and Hulong grouper. • Behavioral, histological, and enzyme responses to low temperature stress were studied. • The half-lethal temperature was lower in Jinhu grouper than in E. fuscoguttatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grouper is an economically important fish in China. However, it exhibits a high frequency of skeletal abnormalities, particularly vertebral deformities. The molecular mechanisms underlying fish vertebral deformities are still poorly understood. In this study, a HiSeq™ 4000 platform (Illumina) was used to analyze the transcriptomic profiles of the brain, pituitary, and vertebrae from normal fish (NF) and fish with lordosis (LF) of Yunlong grouper. A total of 87,888 unigenes were assembled with lengths that varied from 201 to 28,922 bp and a N50 length of 2670 bp. A total of 36,268 unigenes were functionally annotated by BLAST alignments. A total of 2875 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the NF group and the LF group, including 706 upregulated unigenes and 2169 downregulated unigenes in LF. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses showed that DNA binding, transmembrane receptor activity, cytokine receptor interaction, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium signaling pathway and ECM-receptor interaction HIF-1 signaling pathway, and mineral absorption may be involved in the formation of vertebral deformities. Furthermore, weighted gene co-expression network analyses, including three modules (turquoise, yellow, and blue), significantly positively corrected with vertebral deformities. A network map that included these three modules enabled the identification of a series of hub genes, including claudin-22-like (cldn22), fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 1 isoform X2 (fndc1l2), E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase NRDP1-like (rnf41), and Catenin alpha-2 (ctnna1). We found that the levels of most genes in the blue module were closely related to the expression of parvalbumin, thymic CPV3-like isoform X2 (ocm), platelet glycoprotein Ib alpha chain (gp1ba), and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (mmp9), suggesting that this module is associated with skeletal development. Some uncharacterized genes associated with known bone-related genes, including Unigene0067643, Unigene0056862, and Unigene0059867, were detected by a weighted gene co-expression network analysis. A detailed functional investigation of these networks and genes will further improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the formation of lordosis in fish. • Skletal abnormality is one of the most challenging problems for grouper aquaculture industry. • Transcriptome sequencing was performed on the brain, pituitary and vertebrae to study the lordosis of Yunlong grouper. • WGCNA enabled us to uncover networks and new genes involved in vertebrae development. • Changes in the expression of some genes might disrupt the dynamic balance of vertebrae processes, resulting in lordosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In some cases infertile men showed small deletions of specific genes in the Y chromosome. It had been confirmed, these deleted genes are greatly associated with spermatogenic failure. However, the frequency and the patterns of such microdeletions among infertile men are not clearly clarified. Objective: We sought to determine the frequency and the patterns of Y chromosome microdeletions in azoospermic and oligozoospermic infertile men in Northeast China, and try to optimize the selection of sequence tagged sites (STSs) of AZF microdeletions in multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Materials and Methods: 720 azoospermic and 330 oligozoospermic infertile men, from Northeast China were included in this retrospective study during May 2008 to November 2012. Semen analysis was performed according to the World Health Organization guidelines. Y chromosome microdeletions were detected by polymerase chain reaction assays. G-banding method was used for chromosome Karyotype analysis. Chi-square tests were used to compare patterns of Y chromosome microdeletions in azoospermic and oligozoospermic patients. Results: Of 1050 infertile men, 12.95% cases had shown Y chromosome microdeletions, and 19.43% of cases showed abnormal chromosomal karyotype. Deletions in AZFc region was the most frequent 75.00%, followed by deletions in AZFb region 13.33%, AZFbc region 09.62%, and AZFa region 2.22%. All oligozoospermic patients showed presence of sY84, sY86, sY127, and sY134. Deletion of sY127 (p=0.0101) and sY157 (p=0.0043) showed significant difference between azoospermic group and oligozoospermic group. Conclusion: Deletions of sY127 may relate to azoospermia while sY84, sY86, sY 127 can be ignored in AZF screening for oligozoospermic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an optimal deployment scheme of the Seafloor Observation Network (SON) in the South China Sea (SCS), aiming at early warning of potential tsunami hazards based on the data assimilation approach. The SON is composed of offshore bottom pressure gauges (OBPGs). We design the initial location of OBPGs along the isobaths of 500, 1000, and 2000 m. The energy distribution of the tsunami wavefield based on Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis is used as a reference. Then, synthetic tsunamis generated by stochastic slip sources along the Manila Trench are adopted to evaluate the performance of the SON. The OBPGs at a depth of 1000 m can make an accurate early warning based on tsunami data assimilation at a reasonable engineering cost. Finally, based on the quantitative evaluation, the optimal deployment scheme of the SON is suggested. Our results indicate that at least three stations are required to cover the coast along southern China to forecast the tsunami in the SCS successfully. We note that our method could also be applied to other regions to design the SON against potential tsunami hazards. • A tsunami early warning system is designed for the South China Sea. • Data assimilation approach is adopted for tsunami forecasting. • Offshore stations along the 1000-m isobath are most cost-effective. • At least three stations are required for constructing tsunami warning system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To detect incidences and the types of chromosomal abnormalities in Chinese men with infertility and determine chromosomal factors association with various phenotypes. Methods: Semen analysis and karyotype analysis by G-banding were carried out in 4,659 idiopathic infertile males; additionally, multiplex PCR using nine specific sequence-tagged sites (STSs) was used to detect azoospermia factor (AZF) microdeletions in 412 patients with Y chromosomal abnormalities. Results: Male infertility was divided into pregestational infertility, characterized by failure to produce a fertilized ovum, and gestational infertility, characterized by embryo loss after fertilization. The former can result from azoospermia, oligozoospermia or oligoasthenozoospermia syndrome, while the latter is associated with developmental early pregnancy loss, habitual miscarriage and stillbirth. Among 4,659 male patients, 412 (8.84 %) showed abnormal chromosomal karyotypes, including 314 (6.74 %) with sex chromosomal abnormalities and 98 (2.10 %) with autosomal abnormalities. The prevalences of numerical and structural abnormalities among patients with chromosomal abnormalities were 259/412 (62.86 %) and 153/412 (37.14 %), respectively. Furthermore, structural sex chromosomal abnormalities were represented by various phenotypic profiles (46,XX, 47,XYY and 45,X/46,XY), and a prevalence of AZF microdeletions of 19/79 (24.05 %). AZF microdeletions were highly associated with Y chromosomal abnormalities ( P = 0.018). Conclusion: Various chromosomal abnormalities that result in male infertility could affect spermatogenesis or embryonic development at different levels. Sex chromosomal and autosomal abnormalities were highly associated with pregestational and gestational infertility, respectively. AZF microdeletions may play an important role in lowering the stability of the Y chromosome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trade records show that since the 1990s China has changed from a net exporting to a net importing country with respect to some species of snakes. Imports of snakes to China increased up to 2002, when the National Wildlife Management Authority imposed a suspension of international trade in snakes. We investigated the impact of the ban using the same methods as an earlier study of this trade for the period 1990–2001. We found that both imports and exports of snakes recorded in the CITES Trade Database and the Wild Animal and Plant International Trade Database of China have decreased markedly since 2004. The combination of national-level control measures and CITES regulations appear to have controlled the previously unsustainable utilization of snakes in China. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

• A novel duck adenovirus (DAdV-4) was isolated in this study. • DAdV-4 extends the genus Aviadenovirus. • DAdV-4 may become a potential threat to the poultry industry. A novel duck adenovirus, isolated from Jinding Ducks(Anas platyrhynchos domestica), was proposed to be duck adenovirus 4 (DAdV-4), extending the genus Aviadenovirus. In this study, we sequenced the central genome part from Iva2 gene to fiber gene of the DAdV-4 that is conserved in all adenovirus genera. Phylogenetic analysis and protease cleavage site analysis verified the classification of DAdV-4 in the genus Aviadenovirus. Nucleotide identity analysis showed low sequence identity between central genome part genes of DAdV-4 with that of other aviadenoviruses. The phylogenetic tree based on the full amino acid sequence of hexon and DNA polymerase showed that the DAdV-4 appeared on a relatively independent branch. Our analysis suggested that DAdV-4 is a distinct type and represents a novel species. Although DAdV-4 has not caused serious disease outbreaks among ducks yet, the virus should be considered as a potential threat to the poultry industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented related to the role of human enteroviruses (EV) and their genotypes in respiratory tract infections (RTIs) with specific reference to C104 in China.

The Junggar Basin was characterized by high temperature and strong tectonic activities during the Late Cretaceous, in which a dolomite-forming lacustrine depositional system associated with travertine was deposited in its southern sector adjoining the northern Tianshan Mountains. Two broad types of dolomite are identified in terms of mineralogy, including the homogeneous and anhedral dolomite-A and high order degree and euhedral dolomite-B, which are also largely varied in mineral size (10–20 μm and 30–50 μm in size, respectively). The dolomites display a low degrees of dolomite order (mean = 0.48) and Ca-rich (mean = 55.8). Compared with δ 18O values (PDB) of limestones in the shore to shallow facies (−7.0 to −11.1‰), the apparent positive δ 18O values of dolomites (−4.2 to −5.9‰) indicate a stronger evaporation environment, while the values of −6.8 to −8.1‰ in the salt marsh facies dolomitic limestone may reflect transitional conditions. Moreover, the more positive δ 26Mg values of dolomites (ranging from −1.52 to −2.91‰) than those of limestone and travertine (−3.58‰ and −4.31‰, respectively) also indicate an origin related fractionation effect. In addition, based the occurrence of low-temperature hydrothermal minerals, including chlorite, barite, siderite and silver in the dolostone and travertine, we interpret a new travertine-related origin for the lacustrine dolomite. Thermal water entering saline and alkaline lake environments subject to strong evaporation promoted dolomitization. From the simulation of the Rayleigh and seepage reflux models, we speculate that the lacustrine dolomites formed in a near-surface environment (25–50 °C). Moreover, the results contain abundant information on palaeoenvironmental and palaeoclimatic changes, which are very important for reconstructing and deciphering palaeoenvironments and expanding the dolomitization model under thermal water influenced evaporative lacustrine conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is widely accepted that conventional boost algorithms are of low efficiency and accuracy in dealing with big data collected from wind turbine operations. To address this issue, this paper is devoted to the application of an adaptive LightGBM method for wind turbine fault detections. To this end, the realization of feature selection for fault detection is firstly achieved by utilizing the maximum information coefficient to analyze the correlation among features in supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) of wind turbines. After that, a performance evaluation criterion is proposed for the improved LightGBM model to support fault detections. In this scheme, by embedding the confusion matrix as a performance indicator, an improved LightGBM fault detection approach is then developed. Based on the adaptive LightGBM fault detection model, a fault detection strategy for wind turbine gearboxes is investigated. To demonstrate the applications of the proposed algorithms and methods, a case study with a three-year SCADA dataset obtained from a wind farm sited in Southern China is conducted. Results indicate that the proposed approaches established a fault detection framework of wind turbine systems with either lower false alarm rate or lower missing detection rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To compare the accuracy of different obesity indexes, including waist circumference (WC), weight-to-height ratio (WHtR), body mass index (BMI), and lipid accumulation product (LAP), in predicting metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to estimate the optimal cutoffs of these indexes in a rural Chinese adult population. Methods: This prospective cohort involved 8468 participants who were followed up for 6 years. MetS was defined by the International Diabetes Federation, American Heart Association, and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute criteria. The power of the 4 indexes for predicting MetS was estimated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and optimal cutoffs were determined by the maximum of Youden's index. Results: As compared with WHtR, BMI, and LAP, WC had the largest area under the ROC curve (AUC) for predicting MetS after adjusting for age, smoking, drinking, physical activity, and education level. The AUCs (95% CIs) for WC, WHtR, BMI, and LAP for men and women were 0.862 (0.851–0.873) and 0.806 (0.794–0.817), 0.832 (0.820–0.843) and 0.789 (0.777–0.801), 0.824 (0.812–0.835) and 0.790 (0.778–0.802), and 0.798 (0.785–0.810) and 0.771 (0.759–0.784), respectively. The optimal cutoffs of WC for men and women were 83.30 and 76.80 cm. Those of WHtR, BMI, and LAP were approximately 0.51 and 0.50, 23.90 and 23.00 kg/m2, and 19.23 and 20.48 cm.mmol/L, respectively. Conclusions: WC as a preferred index over WHtR, BMI, and LAP for predicting MetS in rural Chinese adults of both genders; the optimal cutoffs for men and women were 83.30 and 76.80 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The aim of the present study was to estimate trends in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in adults in China. Methods A systematic search was conducted for studies of T2DM prevalence in adults in China from 2000 to 2014. Pooled prevalence was calculated by a random-effects model. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed. Chi-squared and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests were used to assess differences among subgroups and pooled prevalence, respectively. Results Forty-six studies (data from 1995 to 2014; 1 463 079 adults) were included in the meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of T2DM was 7.9 %. The pooled prevalence overall and by location (urban and rural), gender (male and female), and age category (18-39, 40-59, and ≥60 years) was 4.5 %, 5.1 % and 3.0 %, 4.0 % and 4.2 %, and 1.4 %, 5.0 %, and 10.3 %, respectively, from 1995 to 1999; 6.6 %, 9.3 % and 5.6 %, 7.4 % and 7.5 %, and 1.8 %, 5.9 %, and 12.4 %, respectively, from 2000 to 2004; 10.3 %, 11.8 % and 6.8 %, 10.0 % and 8.6 %, and 2.8 %, 10.3 %, and 20.0 %, respectively, from 2005 to 2009; and 8.3 %, 12.5 % and 7.6 %, 8.6 % and 8.0 %, and 3.5 %, 8.5 %, and 15.3 %, respectively, from 2010 to 2014. The prevalence increased from 5.8 % to 11.6 % with per-capita gross domestic product and differed by diagnostic criteria. Conclusions There was a trend of increasing prevalence of T2DM in adults in China from 1995 to 2009, with a decrease in 2010-14 and a greater increase over time in urban versus rural areas, males versus females, and older versus younger adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]