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Background: Acupuncture is a widely used clinical treatment method, and studies have confirmed its therapeutic effects on stroke patients. It can also reduce the burden on patients and society. Acupuncture treatment is a complementary and preventive treatment for stroke. However, there has yet to be a visual bibliometric analysis of the field of acupuncture for stroke rat models. This study explores future trends, research hotspots, and frontiers in acupuncture for stroke rat models over the past 20 years through investigation and visualization. Methods: We collected literature data on acupuncture treatment of stroke in rats from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2023. Import into CiteSpace (version 6.2.R4) and RStudio for analysis by author, country/region, affiliation, annual publication, keywords, and journal visualization. Results: A total of 379 articles were retrieved, including articles from 16 countries, 258 research institutions, and 123 academic journals. The countries and institutions with the most publications were the People's Republic of China (338) and the Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (43). Tao, Jing had the highest number of co-citations (144). The keywords and co-citation clustering show the main research directions in the field, including "artery occlusion," "neural regeneration," "stimulation," "rapid tolerance," "receptor," "signaling pathway," "apoptosis," "oxidative stress," "inflammatory response," "endogenous neurogenesis," "tolerance of local cerebral ischemic tissues," "proliferation of reactive astrocytes" and "neuroprotective effect." The intervention combines classical acupuncture treatment and modern technology (electricity) with electroacupuncture as a new intervention modality. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the increasing research on acupuncture for treating stroke in rat models. The country/region with the most publications is the People's Republic of China. However, international cooperation still needs to be improved, and future researchers must strengthen international cooperation. In addition, in future studies, researchers should improve the overall quality of research results in this area and enhance research protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of vaccinees and COVID-19 convalescents can build effective anti-SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity, which helps preventing infection and alleviating symptoms. However, breakthrough viral infections caused by emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially Omicron subvariants, still pose a serious threat to global health. By monitoring the viral infections and the sera neutralization ability of a long-tracked cohort, we found out that the immune evasion of emerging Omicron subvariants and the decreasing neutralization led to the mini-wave of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections. Meanwhile, no significant difference had been found in the infectivity of tested SARS-CoV-2 variants, even though the affinity between human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) and receptor-binding domain (RBDs) of tested variants showed an increasing trend. Notably, the immune imprinting of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine can be relieved by infections of BA.5.2 and XBB.1.5 variants sequentially. Our data reveal the rising reinfection risk of immune evasion variants like Omicron JN.1 in China, suggesting the importance of booster with updated vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in hydrocarbon exploration have been made in the Member Deng-2 marginal microbial mound-bank complex reservoirs of the Dengying Formation in the western Sichuan Basin, SW China, where the depositional process is regarded confusing. The microfacies, construction types, and depositional model of the Member Deng-2 marginal microbial mound-bank complex have been investigated using unmanned aerial vehicle photography, outcrop section investigation, thin section identification, and seismic reflections in the southwestern Sichuan Basin. The microbialite lithologic textures in this region include thrombolite, dendrolite, stromatolite, fenestral stromatolite, spongiostromata stone, oncolite, aggregated grainstone, and botryoidal grapestone. Based on the comprehensive analysis of "depositional fabricselithologyemicrofacies", an association between a fore mound, mound framework, and back mound subfacies has been proposed based on water depth, current direction, energy level and lithologic assemblages. The microfacies of the mound base, mound core, mound flank, mound cap, and mound flat could be recognized among the mound framework subfacies. Two construction types of marginal microbial mound-bank complex have been determined based on deposition location, mound scale, migration direction, and sedimentary facies association. Type Jinkouhe microbial mound constructions (TJMMCs) develop along the windward margin owing to their proximity to the seaward subfacies fore mound, with a northeastwardly migrated microbial mound on top of the mud mound, exhibiting the characteristics of large-sized mounds and small-sized banks in the surrounding area. Type E'bian microbial mound constructions (TEMMCs) primarily occur on the leeward margin, resulting from the presence of onshore back mound subfacies, with the smaller southwestward migrated microbial mounds existing on a thicker microbial flat. The platform margin microbial mound depositional model can be correlated with certain lateral comparison profile and seismic reflection structures in the 2D seismic section, which can provide references for future worldwide exploration. Microbial mounds with larger buildups and thicker vertical reservoirs are typically targeted on the windward margin, while small-sized microbial mounds and flats with better lateral connections are typically focused on the leeward margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bacillus cereus is a ubiquitous opportunistic human pathogen that causes food intoxications worldwide. However, the genomic characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms of B. cereus are still unclear. Methods: Here, we isolated and purified nine strains of B. cereus (LY01-LY09) that caused vomiting, diarrhea and other symptoms from four foodborne outbreaks happened in Guizhou Province in southwest China from June to September 2021. After colony observation, Gram staining, microscopic examination and biochemical test, they were identified as B. cereus. The genomic characteristics, phylogenetic relationships and virulence factors of the isolated strains were analyzed at the genome level. Genome sequencing, comparative genomic analysis, secondary metabolite analysis and quantitative PCR were utilized to give a thorough exploration of the strains. Results:We obtained the genome maps of LY01-LY09 and found that LY01-LY09 had a complex interspecific relationship with B. anthracis and B. thuringiensis. We also observed a contraction of gene families in LY01-LY09, and the contracted families were mainly associated with prophage, which contributed to the species diversity of B. cereus. The Hsp20 gene family underwent a rapid evolution in LY01-LY09, which facilitated the adaptation of the strains to adverse environmental conditions. Moreover, the LY01-LY09 strains exhibited a higher copy number in the non-ribosomal polypeptide synthetase (NRPS) genes and carried the complete cereulide synthetase (ces) gene cluster sequences. Considering that the NRPS system is a classical regulatory mechanism for emetic toxin synthesis, we hypothesized that LY01-LY09 could synthesize emetic toxins through the regulation of ces gene clusters by the NRPS system. Discussion: These findings are important for further investigation into the evolutionary relationship between B. cereus and their related species, as well as the underlying mechanisms governing the synthesis and secretion of bacterial toxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scholarly interest in the counter-movement during the third food regime transition has mainly been focused on open resistance. However, that view omits the grand picture consisting of 230 million Chinese smallholders and their everyday practices. This paper analyzes home gardening by Chinese smallholders based on a 10-year follow-up investigation. It reveals that their goal is to achieve 'insiders eating home-grown food', constituting a hidden and unconfrontational resistance to commercialization and globalization. Moreover, such resistance has formed a powerful force with strategic importance in China, having the potential to enlighten the counter-movement and thereby reshape the food regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the level of coupling coordination between the digital economy (DIE) and carbon emission efficiency (CEE) is not only an inevitable choice for achieving the goals of energy conservation and emission reduction and promoting green development in China, but also a key path to implementing China's "Double Carbon" strategy. Based on the relevant statistical data of 30 provincial-level regions in China from the period covering 2011 to 2019, this paper empirically analyzed the coupling coordination between the DIE and CEE and its influencing factors. In this study, an improved coupling coordination degree (CCD) model was used to evaluate the degree of the coupling and coordinated development of the DIE and CEE in provincial regions of China. Finally, based on the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method was employed to identify the realization path of the coupling and coordinated development of the DIE and CEE from the perspective of configuration. The results demonstrated that the coupling coordination between the DIE and CCE in China demonstrated a gradual upward trend, and exhibited regional differences, showing a decreasing trend of east > middle > west. Regarding the influencing factors, no single influencing factor could act as a necessary condition for the high CCD, the coupling and coordinated development of the DIE and CEE is a multifactorial synergy. There were five paths for the high degree of coupling coordination between the DIE and CEE, which were divided into three types: organization-environment-led type, environment-led type, and technology-organization-led type. Furthermore, technological innovation level and industrial structure could substitute for one another in some conditions, and environmental regulation and economic development level were synchronized. These conclusions provide a theoretical basis for countries to formulate policies to promote the coupling and coordinated development of their DIE and CEE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focusing on a sample of 9387 observations in China over the period 2016−2019, this paper empirically examines whether the presentation reform of R&D expenses that is changed from notes to income statements, mitigates corporate financial constraints of Chinese listed companies. Findings offer evidence that the financial constraints of firms decrease after the policy change, which is owing to the alleviation of information asymmetry. Further analysis reveals that the effect of the presentation reform on financial constraints is less prominent among companies that are state‐owned, audited by the "Big four" and of higher institutional ownership. Overall, our study provides evidence supporting the influences of the format reform of financial reports and has implications for information users, regulators, and standard setters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Although much evidence has demonstrated the benefits of adhering to the 24-hour movement guidelines, little is known about their association with self-rated health in adolescents. The objective of this study was to explore the association between adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines (i.e., physical activity, screen time, and sleep) and self-rated health among Chinese adolescents aged 10-17 ages. Methods. A convenient sample of 12 schools and their students were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Physical activity and screen time were assessed using a questionnaire based on the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children questionnaire, while sleep duration was used measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Scale. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to examine the association between adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines and self-rated health. Results. Adolescents who adhered to more guidelines contained in the 24-hour movement guidelines reported better self-rated health. A dose-response association was observed, with the odds ratio (OR) for adhering to all three = 11.26, 95% CI [4.82-26.35]; OR for meeting two = 1.62, 95% CI [1.25-2.12]; OR for meeting one = 1.16, 95% CI [0.98-1.38]) indicating a higher probability of better self-rated health with increasing adherence. Regarding adherence to specific combination of 24-hour movement guidelines, positive associations were found for adhering to all three recommendations (OR = 11.95, 95% CI [5.06-28.19]), only MVPA (OR D 4.96, 95% CI [2.82-8.72]), MVPA C screen time (OR = 5.50, 95% CI [3.02-9.99]), and MVPA C sleep (OR = 4.63, 95% CI [2.52-8.51]). Conclusion. This study provides evidence supporting the association between adher- ence to the 24-hour movement guidelines and better self-rated health among Chinese adolescents. Sufficient physical activity may be particularly important for promoting self-rated health in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we examine the YouTube channel Railways Explained and its video on the Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Railway (JBHSR). By stressing tensions among China, Indonesia, and Japan surrounding the JBHSR project, the video, we argue, managed to divert the audience's attention away from its Eurocentric representation to a socially constructed Asian drama. Drawing upon Foucauldian poststructuralism, we then demonstrate how the Asian drama, narrated through three forms of otherness—ideological (Japan/Indonesia vs. China); developmental (Japan/China vs. Indonesia); and a geopolitical imaginary (the West vs. Asia)—revealed the perpetuation of Eurocentric hegemony in the knowledge of science and technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil phosphorus (P) limitation in karst areas has severely constrained soil quality and land productivity. To enhance silage maize yield and quality and alleviate and/or balance the low phosphorus availability in the karst areas of China, the experiment investigated the effects of different tillage and residue retention practices on silage maize yield and quality and soil phosphorus in this region. The treatment set included: conventional tillage (CT), conventional tillage and root stubble retention (CTH), conventional tillage and mulch (CTM), conventional tillage and crushing and incorporation of hairy vetch by tillage (CTR), no tillage (NT), no tillage and root stubble retention (NTH), no tillage and mulch (NTM), and no tillage and living mulch (NTLM). The results showed that CTM, NTM, CTR, and NTLM significantly increased the height and LAI of silage maize compared with the CT, NT, and NTH treatments. CTM, CTR, and NTM significantly enhanced maize yield. Compared with conventional tillage, not tilling had a more pronounced improvement in silage quality, whereas residue retention hardly affected corn quality. In addition, although not tilling does not significantly increase acid phosphatase activity, it appeared to be advantageous in increasing soil microbial phosphorus and available phosphorus content when combined with cover crop measures. Ultimately, we concluded that NTM and NTLM are beneficial for silage maize yield and quality and soil phosphorus content in karst areas and verified the advantages of combining no tillage and residue retention practices for silage maize production and soil phosphorus improvement in the karst areas of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of traditional Chinese mind-body exercises in improving cognition, memory, and executive function in older adults with cognitive impairment. Data sources: Relevant English and Chinese language studies published until September 14th, 2022 were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, WAN FANG DATA, VIP Information, CNKI, and SinoMed databases. Review methods: Randomized controlled trials assessing traditional Chinese mind-body exercises (Tai Chi, Baduanjin, Qigong, Mind-Body Therapies, and Yijinjing) in older adults with cognitive impairment were included. Two researchers independently identified eligible studies and extracted data. A risk-of-bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results: This study included 15 randomized controlled trials (1,127 participants) from China, Thailand and American. Most studies had a high risk of bias in the blinding of participants and researchers, one study had a high risk of bias in the random sequence generation and two studies had a high risk of bias in the incomplete outcome data. Compared with conventional therapy alone, traditional Chinese mind-body exercises significantly improved global cognitive function (p < 0.00001), and Baduanjin could improve the global cognitive function (p < 0.00001), memory function (p < 0.0001), and executive function (p < 0.0001) outcomes after treatment, and significantly improved some dimensional scores on the auditory verbal learning test after treatment (p = 0.04). Conclusion: Compared with conventional therapy, traditional Chinese mind-body exercises (Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Qigong) significantly improved global cognitive function, and Baduanjin could improve global cognitive function, memory function, and executive function in older adults with cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotional labor claims its significance as the key indicator both of the psychological health of contemporary employees, and the productivity of service-based businesses depending upon genuine emotional input of employees. By far, research on emotional labor of employees in an organizational context is still lacking. This study aims to explore the relationships among emotional labor, organizational support, career competences and career commitment to investigate how emotional labor interacts with the organizational context and affects the career management of the employee. Data were collected from a sample of 387 frontline employees working at two luxury hotel brands in China. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized to estimate the relationships among the constructs. It is demonstrated by the findings that organizational support mediates positively on emotional labor, which exerts positive influences on career competences and career commitment. Sound handling of emotional labor, boosted by a supportive organizational environment, has been ascertained to positively predict long-term career paths of the employees at the company. This study provides insights into how the tourism and hospitality industry can optimize the functions of emotional labor for in enhancing service quality and customer satisfaction, as well as promoting the psychological well-being of the employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate change has been widely recognized as important factors that threaten biodiversity. Rhododendron species are not only famous woody ornamental plants worldwide but are also indispensable components in alpine and subalpine vegetation in southwest China. However, the geographical distribution ranges response of this broad taxonomic group to future climate change remains not be fully understood. Herein, we studied the impact of climate change on the distribution of Rhododendron species in China by predicting the changes in their suitable habitats, centroid, and species richness under three climate change scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5) in the 2090s. The species richness changes of Rhododendrons along altitude were also evaluated. In addition, we calculated the phylogenetic signals of distribution response to climate change. We found that the distribution responses of Rhododendron to climate change have weak phylogenetic signals. In the 2090s, the suitable habitats of about 87% of Rhododendron species will be reduced, 77% of Rhododendron species are manifested as northward migration. The high species richness of Rhododendrons tends to migrate to transboundary areas with high altitudes in China. Some Rhododendron species with no concern previously should be taken seriously for their high risk of habitat loss under climate change. Thus, the urgent protection of Rhododendron species under climate change need to be paid more attention than previous acknowledged. We recommend carrying out the reintroduction of endangered species in future suitable habitat, strengthening the protection of transboundary areas with high species richness, and focusing on species with few concerns previously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsoil (0.2–1 m) organic carbon (C) accounts for the majority of soil organic carbon (SOC), and SOC turnover time (τ, year) is an important index of soil C stability and sequestration capacity. However, the estimation of subsoil τ and the identification of its dominant environmental factors at a regional scale is lacking in regards to forest ecosystems. Therefore, we compiled a dataset with 630 observations to investigate subsoil τ and its influencing factors in forest ecosystems across China using the structural equation model (SEM). The results showed a large variability of subsoil τ from 2.3 to 896.2 years, with a mean (± standard deviation) subsoil τ of 72.4 ± 68.6 years; however, the results of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that subsoil τ differed significantly with forest types (p = 0.01), with the slowest subsoil τ obtained in deciduous-broadleaf forests (82.9 ± 68.7 years), followed by evergreen-needleleaf forests (77.6 ± 60.8 years), deciduous-needleleaf forests (75.3 ± 78.6 years), and needleleaf and broadleaf mixed forests (71.3 ± 80.9 years), while the fastest subsoil τ appeared in evergreen-broadleaf forests (59.9 ± 40.7 years). Subsoil τ negatively correlated with the mean annul temperature, occurring about three years faster with a one degree increase in temperature, indicating a faster subsoil SOC turnover under a warming climate. Subsoil τ significantly and positively correlated with microbial activities (indicated by microbial C and nitrogen), highlighting the importance of microbial communities in regulating subsoil C dynamics. Climate, forest types, forest origins, vegetation, and soil variables explained 37% of the variations in subsoil τ, as indicated by the SEM, and the soil property was the most important factor affecting subsoil τ. This finding challenged previous perception that climate was the most important factor driving subsoil C dynamics, and that dominant drivers varied according to climate zones. Therefore, recognizing different dominant factors in predicting subsoil C dynamics across climate zones would improve our understanding and reduce the uncertainties regarding subsoil C dynamics in biogeochemical models under ongoing climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a main form of complementary and alternative medicine provides a potential possibility for demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (DDC) management and has been applied in considerable amounts of patients with this disorder. Nevertheless, powerful real-world evidences regarding the epidemiological and clinical characteristics, safety, and outcomes of TCM in DDC are lacking. The primary objective of the Demyelinating Diseases of the Central Nervous System Registry for Patients with Traditional Chinese Medicine (DATE-TCM) is to create an organized multicenter data collection structure to define integrative characteristics of DDC patients treated with TCM in an endeavor to fill these knowledge gaps to better inform clinical care and health policy. Method: This study provides a prospective and voluntary registry by using a web-based system. Baseline data will be recorded and subsequently regular follow-up visits will be implemented every 3–6 months for a total of 5 years. The primary outcome is Annualized Aggregate Relapse Rate at 5-year follow-up. Results: DATE-TCM is currently designed to capture the multidimensional (epidemiologic, demographic, clinical, etc.) features of DDC patients receiving TCM treatment, the type and long-term safety and efficacy of TCM intervenes in the DDC populations, as well as the interaction of TCM treatments and disease modifying therapies in the management of DDC, aiming to include 2000 eligible adult DDC patients with TCM intervenes from 35 participating centers, covering 77.4% of provincial administrative regions of mainland China. Conclusion: DATE-TCM is the first, largest, most geographically extensive, and standard registry-based observational study that systematically document the real-world data regarding the TCM application in the DDC populations, which will be extraordinarily important for clarifying the comprehensive characteristics and outcomes of TCM in DDC, further shed light on standardizing and optimizing the TCM measures for DDC management and establishing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for TCM application in DDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southwest mountainous region of China has been characterized as one of the worldwide biodiversity hotspots, but mechanisms underlying diversification of organisms in this region are still not clear. We assessed whether fragmented mountainous habitats and Pleistocene climate changes impacted the genetic diversity and diversification patterns of the hoary bamboo rat (Rhizomys pruinosus Blyth), a widely distributed species of rodent in SW China. Genetic diversity analyses were undertaken based on four mitochondrial DNA regions and 12 nuclear microsatellite loci (simple sequence repeats), representing 153 individuals from 24 populations across SW China. Moreover, we investigated correlations between genotype and geographical components, and predicted species distribution models for R. pruinosus under the historical and present climate conditions. Both mitochondrial DNA and simple sequence repeat markers revealed substantial genetic diversity and strong differentiation between populations. Phylogeographical analyses revealed two phylogenetic clades that were consistent with their geographical distributions (eastern and western clades). We inferred that the divergence of R. pruinosus was largely driven by Quaternary climatic oscillations and regionally fragmented mountainous habitats with environmental and geographical heterogeneity. Overall, our study revealed diversification patterns of R. pruinosus—patterns that may be shared by small alpine vertebrates in SW China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the use of the ideograph territorial sovereignty by the Times of India (TOI ; U.S./New Delhi editions) in its reports on China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Using McGee's (1980) notion of ideograph and Entman's (1993) framing theory, it uncovers a discursive strategy used by elite media for swaying public opinion regarding international and domestic information flow when promoting its preferred "Indian" understanding of the BRI. This study reviews historical uses of the ideograph territorial sovereignty to establish an analysis of the TOI 's use of it. Then, following framing theory and a synchronic structure, I explore the ideograph in 40 collected TOI reports by contextualizing relationships supporting and surrounding it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to limited time windows and technical requirements, only a small percentage of patients can receive reperfusion therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Previous studies have shown that LongShengZhi (LSZ) capsule can improve neurological outcomes in patients after AIS, yet those results have not been finally verified through rigorous randomized controlled trials. Thus, this trial was designed to further clarify the efficacy and safety of LSZ capsule for patients with AIS. Methods: LSZ capsule on Functional Recovery after Acute Ischemic Stroke (LONGAN) trial is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, superiority trial that enrolls patients from stroke and rehabilitation units in China. We will enroll 1,376 patients aged 18 years or older with AIS within 7 days of symptom onset and a National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score of 4-15. Eligible patients will be randomized to receive either 2 g LSZ capsules three times a day or placebo LSZ capsules for 90 days. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with favorable outcomes, as measured by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 90 days after randomization. The main safety outcome is the proportion of severe adverse events. Conclusion: This study will be the first randomized, double-blind trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of LSZ capsule in patients with AIS. In order to improve the transparency and reproducibility of the trial, the data will be analyzed in accordance with this pre-specified plan for statistical analysis to reduce bias due to selective analysis and reporting. This trial aims to provide high-quality evidence for the efficacy and safety of LSZ capsule for AIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: At present, a number of systematic reviews (SRs) on Xuebijing injection (a patent in China) in the treatment of acute pancreatitis (AP) or severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) have been published. However, the quality of evidence is uneven and has not been comprehensively evaluated. Aim: We evaluated the efficacy of Xuebijing injection for AP/SAP through an overview of SR, and to provide a scientific basis for its effectiveness and safety. Methods: We searched Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, SinoMed, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP comprehensively. The retrieval period from inception to 30 November 2021, and the two reviewers independently complete the literature retrieval, data extraction and evaluation. The Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2) and the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) were used to evaluate the methodological quality and reporting quality of the SRs, respectively. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool was used to evaluate the quality grading of outcomes and the risk of bias in SRs was evaluated by ROBIS Tool. Finally, the RCTs involved in SRs were synthesized. Stata15.1 was used for quantitative analysis of total effectiveness rate, time until relief of abdominal pain, time until relief of abdominal distension, and serum amylase level. Results: Nine eligible SRs were included, including 92 RCTs and 6,837 participants. The quality of SRs was relatively good, and the manuscript structures were relatively complete. However, the methodological quality of SRs was low or critically low. RoB rated 5 SRs as low risk of bias and 4 SRs as high risk of bias. In GRADE, a total of 47 results were included in the 9 SRs, of which 5 results (10.64%) were moderate quality, 22 results (46.81%) were low quality, and 20 results (42.55%) were very low quality. The results of data synthesis showed that Xuebijing injection combined treatment increased the total effectiveness rate of AP patients (RR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.17-1.23, p < 0.0001), and there was no heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.589). Compared with the control group, Xuebijing injection group shortened the abdominal pain and distension relief time in AP patients (WMD = -1.69, 95% CI -1.88--1.50, p < 0.0001; WMD = -1.48, 95% CI -1.74--1.23, p < 0.0001), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 84.3%, p = 0.000; I2 = 72.2%, p = 0.000). Serum amylase level was also reduced (WMD = -2.06, 95% CI -2.47--1.64, p < 0.0001), with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 71.6%, p = 0.000). A total of one SR reported adverse drug reaction (ADR), no ADRs were observed in the control group. Conclusion: Although the quality of the evidence is not high, it can still reflect the clinical value of Xuebijing injection as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of AP/SAP. Therefore, future clinical studies should focus on the long-term efficacy and adverse reactions of drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The use of selective dorsal neurectomy (SDN) as a surgical treatment of premature ejaculation (PE) has increased for many years in Asian countries. Objectives. To investigate the correlation between age and curative effects of SDN in primary premature ejaculation (PPE) in mainland China. Materials and methods. From September 2016 to September 2020, 65 patients with PPE treated with SDN were selected for study. All of the patients were followed up from 12 to 56 (30.07 ±13.48) months. They were divided into 3 groups according to age: group A (22-30 years, n = 23), group B (31-37 years, n = 20) and group C (38-45 years, n = 22). The 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) results, erectile rigidity grade, intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT), ejaculation control abilities (ECA) scores, and sexual intercourse satisfaction (SIS) scores were assessed in the 3 groups before and after operation to evaluate the clinical efficacy of surgery. Results. Fifty-nine patients were finally followed up. The IIEF-5 scores and erectile rigidity grade of group A was significantly higher than that of groups B and C, both before and after surgery. The change of PEDT scores in group A was significantly higher than in groups B and C; the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The IELT, ECA and SIS scores in group A were significantly higher than in groups B and C (p < 0.05). Operational efficiency ratio in groups B and C (65%, 70%) was significantly lower than in group A (95.24%). Conclusions. The SDN as a treatment of PPE in different age groups allowed to achieve certain results. The highest surgical efficiency (95.24%) was observed in the 22-30 years age group and the lowest (65%) in the 38-45 years age group. Therefore, we believe that the best time for surgery is between 22 and 30 years of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the demand of the fast increasing population, enhancing the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield and resource use efficiency by optimizing water and nitrogen (N) management can greatly improve agricultural sustainability and enhance regenerative farming in developing countries such as China. Based on 126 studies conducted in China between 1996 and 2018, using meta-analysis in combination with decision regression tree modeling and life cycle assessment (LCA), this study aimed to (1) quantify the effect of water and N input on wheat yield, water productivity (WP c ), and N use efficiency (NUE f ), and evaluate the subsequent environmental impact in different regions using LCA; and (2) evaluate, model, and rank the roles of environmental (e.g., soil nutrient status and climatic factors) and agronomic factors (e.g., water and N management practices) affecting wheat yield, WP c , and NUE f . The results showed that irrigation and N addition increased the average yield and WP c by 40 and 15%, respectively, relative to control treatments with no irrigation or fertilizer application. The mean water saving potential (WSP) and N saving potential (NSP) in China were estimated at 11 and 10%, respectively. Soil nutrient status [e.g., initial soil phosphorus (P) and potassium (K)] and soil organic carbon content affected the wheat yield, WP c , and NUE f more significantly than climatic factors [mean annual temperature (MAT)] or water and N management practices. The structural equation-based modeling indicated that initial soil nutrient condition impacted productivity and resource use efficiency more at the below optimal water and N levels than above. The risk-factor-based feature ranking indicated that site-specific environmental and soil condition was highly informative toward model construction but split input of N or water had less impact on yield and input use efficiency. LCA demonstrated that to further mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, water- or N-saving management should be promoted in China. Collectively, our research implies that long-term soil health and nutrient enhancement should be more beneficial for increasing yield and resource use efficiency in wheat production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a nonenveloped RNA virus causing hepatitis E worldwide. The increase in transfusion-transmitted cases of HEV infections from asymptomatic blood donors causing serious illnesses among immunosuppressed recipients has been reported in the past few years. China is one of the most prevalent regions of HEV; as a result, it is important to evaluate the risk of transfusion-transmitted HEV. Methods: A total of 1864 serum samples (including demographic characteristics) from blood donors were randomly collected from February to March 2018 in Dali city. Anti-HEV IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies and HEV antigen were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). HEV RNA was detected by real-time PCR. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was used to examine the risk factors associated with HEV prevalence. Results: Overall, the positive rates of anti-HEV IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies were 13.36% (249/1864), 1.13% (21/1864), and 1.82% (34/1864), respectively. However, none of the 1864 serum samples were HEV antigen positive or HEV RNA positive. Females (16.69%) had a significantly higher HEV seroprevalence than males (13.04%) (odds ratio [OR] 1.34 [95% CI, 1.02–1.75]). Bai (18.85%) donors had a significantly higher HEV seroprevalence than Han (12.21%) blood donors (odds ratio [OR], 1.65 [95% CI, 1.24–2.19] for Bai). Conclusions: HEV showed a seroprevalence among blood donors in Yunnan Province, some of which were even recent infections, indicating a threat to the safety of blood transfusions. Whether to formulate a strategy for HEV screening in blood centres needs further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to ionosphere absorption and the interference ofnatural and artificial radio emissions, astronomicalobservation from the ground becomes very difficultat the wavelengths of decametre or longer, whichwe shall refer to as the ultralong wavelengths. Thisunexplored part of the electromagnetic spectrum hasthe potential for great discoveries, notably in the studyof cosmic dark ages and dawn, but also in heliophysicsand space weather, planets and exoplanets, cosmicray and neutrinos, pulsar and interstellar medium(ISM), extragalactic radio sources, and so on. Thedifficulty of the ionosphere can be overcome byspace observation, and the Moon can shield the radiofrequency interferences (RFIs) from the Earth. A lunarorbit array can be a practical first step to openingup the ultralong wave band. Compared with a lunarsurface observatory on the far side, the lunar orbitarray is simpler and more economical, as it does notneed to make the risky and expensive landing, canbe easily powered with solar energy, and the datacan be transmitted back to the Earth when it is onthe near-side part of the orbit. Here, I describe thediscovering sky at the longest wavelength (DSL)project, which will consist of a mother satellite and6–9 daughter satellites, flying on the same circularorbit around the Moon, and forming a linearinterferometerarray.The dataarecollectedby the mother satellite which computes the inter ferometric cross-correlations (visibilities) and transmits the data back to the Earth. The whole array can be deployed on the lunar orbit with a single rocket launch. The project is under intensive study in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article comprehensively categorizes the importance of coal mines that operated during the history of modern coal mining from 1840 to 1970 and evaluates the value of the tourism resources of each coal mine. By combining the values of coal mine tourism resources and the point data on coal-resource-exhausted cities, the nuclear density analysis method is used to form corresponding nuclear density distribution maps; nuclear density reclassification and assignment and overlay analysis are used to identify the key cities and regions suitable for the development of coal mine industrial heritage tourism. On this basis, the development sequence and measures for the development of coal mine industrial heritage tourism are proposed. The study found that the integration of multiple spatial technology analysis methods can effectively solve the problems of spatial identification of coal mine tourism resources. Coal mine tourism resources are mainly concentrated in five regions: the northeast region, northern Huang-Huai, the northeast of central China and northwest China, the east of northwest China, and central Jiangnan. In the future, industrial heritage tourism should be developed according to the law of gradient development. Priority should be given to the development of areas with exhausted resources and a high value of tourism resources to gradually form four clusters of coal mine industrial heritage tourism corresponding to tourism resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Strict medication guidance and lifestyle interventions to manage blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive patients are typically difficult to follow. Objective: To evaluate the 1-year effectiveness of lifestyle and drug intervention in the management of rural hypertensive patients. Design: Randomized community intervention trial. Participants: The control group comprised 967 patients who received standard antihypertensive drug intervention therapy from two communities, whereas the intervention group comprised 1945 patients who received antihypertensive drug and lifestyle intervention therapies from four communities in rural China. Main Measures: Data on lifestyle behaviors and BP measurements at baseline and 1-year follow-up were collected. A difference-in-difference logistic regression model was used to assess the effect of the intervention. Key Results: BP control after the 1-year intervention was better than that at baseline in both groups. The within-group change in BP control of 59.3% in the intervention group was much higher than the 25.2% change in the control group (P < 0.001). Along with the duration of the follow-up period, systolic and diastolic BP decreased rapidly in the early stages and then gradually after 6 months in the intervention group (P < 0.001). In the intervention group, drug therapy adherence was increased by 39.5% (from 48.1% at 1 month to 87.6% at 1 year) (P < 0.001), more in women (45.6%) than in men (31.2%; P < 0.001). The net effect of the lifestyle intervention improved the rate of BP control by 56.1% (70.8% for men and 44.7% for women). For all physiological and biochemical factors, such as body mass index, waist circumference, lipid metabolism, and glucose control, improvements were more significant in the behavioral intervention group than those in the control group (all P < 0.001). Conclusion: The addition of lifestyle intervention by physicians or nurses helps control BP effectively and lowers BP better than usual care with antihypertensive drug therapy alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Question: Do cumulative live birth rates (CLBRs) after one complete ART cycle differ between the three commonly used controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocols (GnRH antagonist, depot GnRHa (GnRH agonist) and long GnRHa) in normal responders undergoing IVF/ICSI?Summary Answer: There were similar CLBRs between the GnRH antagonist, depot GnRHa and long GnRHa protocols.What Is Known Already: There is no consensus on which COS protocol is the most optimal in women with normal ovarian response. The CLBR provides the final success rate after one complete ART cycle, including the fresh and all subsequent frozen-thawed embryo transfer (ET) cycles. We suggest that the CLBR measure would allow for better comparisons between the different treatment protocols.Study Design, Size, Duration: A prospective controlled, randomized, open label trial was performed between May 2016 and May 2017. A total of 819 patients were allocated to the GnRH antagonist, depot GnRHa or long GnRHa protocol in a 1:1:1 ratio. The minimum follow-up time from the first IVF cycle was 2 years. To further investigate the potential effect of COS with the GnRH antagonist, depot GnRHa or long GnRHa protocol on endometrial receptivity, the expression of homeobox A10 (HOXA10), myeloid ecotropic viral integration site 1 (MEIS1) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) endometrial receptivity markers was evaluated in endometrial tissue from patients treated with the different COS protocols.Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: Infertile women with normal ovarian response (n = 819) undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment were randomized to the GnRH antagonist, depot GnRHa or long GnRHa protocol. Both IVF and ICSI cycles were included, and the sperm samples used were either fresh or frozen partner ejaculates or frozen donor ejaculates. The primary outcome was the live birth rate (LBR) per fresh ET cycle, and the CLBR after one complete ART cycle, until the birth of a first child (after 28 weeks) or until all frozen embryos were used, whichever occurred first. Pipelle endometrial biopsies from 34 female patients were obtained on Days 7-8 after oocyte retrieval or spontaneous ovulation in natural cycles, respectively, and HOXA10, MEIS1 and LIF mRNA and protein expression levels in the human endometrium was determined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot, respectively.Main Results and the Role Of Chance: There were no significant differences in CLBRs between the GnRH antagonist, depot GnRHa or long GnRHa protocol (71.4 versus 75.5 versus 72.2%, respectively). However, there was a significantly higher LBR per fresh ET cycle in the depot GnRHa protocol than in the long GnRHa and GnRH antagonist protocols (62.6 versus 52.1% versus 45.6%, P < 0.05). Furthermore, HOXA10, MEIS1 and LIF mRNA and protein expression in endometrium all showed significantly higher in the depot GnRHa protocol than in the long GnRHa and GnRH antagonist protocols (P < 0.05).Limitations, Reasons For Caution: A limitation of our study was that both our clinicians and patients were not blinded to the randomization for the randomized controlled trial (RCT). An inclusion criterion for the current retrospective cohort study was based on the 'actual ovarian response' during COS treatment, while the included population for the RCT was 'expected normal responders' based on maternal age and ovarian reserve test. In addition, the analysis was restricted to patients under 40 years of age undergoing their first IVF cycle. Furthermore, the endometrial tissue was collected from patients who cancelled the fresh ET, which may include some patients at risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, however only patients with 4-19 oocytes retrieved were included in the molecular study.Wider Implications Of the Findings: The depot GnRH agonist protocol improves the live birth rate per fresh ET cycle, but not the cumulative live birth rate in normal responders. A possible explanation for the improved LBR after fresh ET in the depot GnRHa protocol could be molecular signalling at the level of endometrial receptivity.Study Funding/competing Interest(s): This project was funded by Grant 81571439 from the National Natural Sciences Foundation of China and Grant 2016YFC1000206-5 from the National Key Research & Development Program of China. The authors declare no conflict of interest.Trial Registration Number: The RCT trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, Study Number: ChiCTR-INR-16008220.Trial Registration Date: 5 April 2016.Date Of First Patient’s Enrollment: 12 May 2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing scholarship in feminist geography has worked to significantly delineate the concept of positionality. In this article, we continue in this tradition by considering the context of transnational research where researchers need to actively negotiate the effects of colonialist discourses in both interpersonal relationships and discourse production. We argue that empathy through imaginative reconstruction provides an opportunity for an emotional understanding to be approached in the absence of shared experience. Drawing on our own fieldwork experiences, we address moments where we worked to create relationships of empathy through imagination to highlight ways that imaginative reconstruction and empathy can be used to negotiate difference in the process of fieldwork. Relatedly, we address the need to take a third position and the role of the shame in this process. We also consider the dangers posed when using imaginative reconstruction, particularly over-identification and appropriation. We conclude by discussing the challenges and potential of using imaginative reconstruction to enrich transnational research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the genetic diversity and population structure of natural forest populations is essential for evaluating their ability to survive under future environmental changes and establishing conservation strategies. Pinus koraiensis is a conifer species with high ecological and economic value in Northeast China. However, its natural forests have been greatly reduced in recent years, mostly due to over exploitation and over utilization. Here, we evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of seven populations of P. koraiensis located throughout its native distribution. A total of 204 samples were genotyped with nine polymorphic nuclear SSR (simple sequence repeat) markers. The results showed high genetic diversity in all populations, with an average expected heterozygosity of 0.610, and the northern-most populations (Dailin (DL) and Fenglin (FL)) showed slightly higher diversity than the other five populations. The level of genetic differentiation among populations was very low (FST = 0.020). Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that only 2.35% of the genetic variation existed among populations. Moreover, STRUCTURE analysis clearly separated the seven populations into two clusters. Populations DL and FL from the Xiaoxinganling Mountains comprised cluster I, while cluster II included the five populations from the Changbai Mountains and adjacent highlands. Our research on the genetic diversity and population structure of P. koraiensis in natural forests of China can provide a basis for the implementation of programs for the conservation and utilization of P. koraiensis genetic resources in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a recently discovered cytokine that plays a role in immune suppression and has therefore been the subject of a great deal of research. A bibliometric analysis of the global research concerning IL-35, however, is rare. Objectives: The aim of this research was to assess the international scientific output of IL-35 research and explore its hotspots and frontiers from 2009 to 2018 by bibliometric analysis. Methods: Publications about IL-35 research from 2009 to 2018 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Citespace V was used to analyze years, journals, countries, research institutions, areas of exploration, research hotspots, and trends of publication. Results: We retrieved a total of 416 publications and observed a trend of publications increasing over the past decade. Original articles (351) were the most frequently occurring document type. The largest number of publications belonging to one country and one institution, respectively, was China (202) and Tianjin Medical University (17). Trending keywords may indicate frontier topics, including “infectious tolerance,” “autoimmune,” and “central nervous system.” Conclusion: This study provides valuable information on the study of IL-35 so that researchers may identify new research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of social media, more and more people use online tools to interact with others and to express their opinions and emotions. This study examined online expression on People's Daily's microblog site in response to a heavy rainfall in Wuhan, China during early July of 2016. We used a computer program to conduct a sentiment analysis to analyze 14 official posts on the site and 30,161 comments under these threads to investigate online expression of emotion in response to the heavy rainstorm. Results showed that online expression of emotion went through four stages, including emergence, peak, declination and extinction. More important, this cycle was repeated because of new development in the event. Additionally, both positive and negative emotions were present in the comments; however, unlike many previous studies, positive emotion was dominant in the comments. We also found that interaction among netizens influences emotional expression in the online discussions. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the “weekend warrior” pattern of physical activity (PA) where people perform all their PA in 1 or 2 sessions per week. We investigated the relationship of weekend warrior and other PA patterns with metabolic syndrome (MS) and its associated diseases. Data on sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics were collected from the Nantong Metabolic Syndrome Study that included 13,505 women and 6,997 men between 2007 and 2008. Compared with inactive participants, weekend warriors were at lower risk of MS, diabetes, and hypertension; respective odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for men and women were 0.58 (0.43-0.79) and 0.67 (0.52-0.86), 0.52 (0.34-0.79) and 0.52 (0.33-0.83), and 0.79 (0.63-0.99) and 0.71 (0.57-0.89). Similar results were observed with regular activity, at a frequency of >3 sessions per week. Both weekend warrior and regular PA patterns showed a 10-60% decrease in abnormal triglycerides, glucose, and blood pressure in both sexes; abnormal waist circumference in men only; and abnormal high-density lipoprotein in women only. Our observed cross-sectional relationships reflect that >150 min/week of moderate PA or 75 min/week vigorous-intensity PA is needed to prevent MS and its component diseases, even if in a short-bout, intermittent PA pattern. Abbreviations: MS: Metabolic syndrome; WC: Waist circumference; TG: Triglycerides; HDL-c: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol; BP: Blood pressure; SBP: Systolic blood pressure, DBP: Diastolic blood pressure; PA: Physical activity; JIS: Joint Interim Statement; CVD: Cardiovascular disease; ATP III: US Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program, the Adult Treatment Panel; IDF: International Diabetes Federation; IPAQ: International Physical Activity Questionnaire; BMI: Body mass index; CDC: the Nantong Centers for Disease Control; OR: Odds ratio; CI: Confidence interval; SD: Standard deviation; IQR: Interquartile range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loess Plateau agriculture, largely dependent on manual labor and precipitation water, exemplifies semiarid dryland agricultural systems in China, where better cropping systems and practices are essential for maintaining crop productivity and sustaining natural resources. An 11-year (2001–2011) study at the Xifeng, Gansu investigated the effects of different conservation tillage practices and straw mulching methods on yield, water productivity (WP), soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), energy expenditure and economic returns of a maize ( Zea mays L.)-winter wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.)-summer soybean ( Glycine max L.) rotation system. Treatments included conventional tillage (T) as control, conventional tillage followed by straw mulching (TS), no tillage (NT) and no tillage followed by straw mulching (NTS). On average, TS treatment had increased yield by 11, 22, and 4%; as well as WP by 13, 22, and 7% than T, NT and NTS treatments, respectively. Additionally, NTS indicated the greatest effect in increasing SOC and TN in the 0–10 cm soil layer. Our support vector machine (SVM)-based simulation modeling indicated great performance on predicting maize yield (R 2  = 0.76) and wheat WP (R 2  = 0.84) based on a 10-fold cross validation (10-fold CV). TS treatment provided the greatest net energy and net economic income, and NTS treatment indicated the greatest economic benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The superior vena cava (SVC) has been established as an important source of atrial fibrillation (AF). The role of SVC in long-standing persistent AF and the efficacy of empiric electrical isolation of the SVC are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to judge the role of SVC in catheter ablation of long-standing persistent AF.Methods and Results: A total of 102 consecutive patients with long-standing persistent AF were enrolled. All patients underwent circumferential pulmonary vein isolation, complex fractionated atrial electrograms ablation, and linear ablation during the index procedure. Superior vena cava-triggered AF and an SVC associated with the maintenance of AF were evaluated by mapping catheters during the procedure. The arrhythmogenicity of the SVC was confirmed in only 1 of the patients (0.98%). At the end of 12 months follow-up, the arrhythmia-free survival rate after a single procedure was 43.1%. After the last procedure (mean 1.47 ± 0.58 procedures), sinus rhythm was maintained in 71 (69.6%) patients, 63 of whom without antiarrhythmic drugs. The patients in AF recurrence group had higher rates of right atrium enlargement (71 vs. 34%, P = 0.03), ≥2 procedures (65 vs. 34%, P < 0.05), longer AF duration (84 ± 46 vs. 45 ± 34 months, P < 0.05), and larger left atrium diameter (50 ± 5 vs. 45 ± 6 mm, P < 0.05). In the multivariate analysis, left atrium diameter and AF duration were independent predictors of AF recurrence.Conclusion: The arrhythmogenic SVC is rarely detected in patients with long-standing persistent AF. Empiric SVC electrical isolation in the stepwise approach of long-standing persistent AF seems unnecessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pancreatic cancer is rare but highly malignant. Studies have shown that surgeons' knowledge closely links to the correct diagnosis and treatment outcomes of pancreatic cancer. The purpose of this study was to survey current surgeons' knowledge regarding pancreatic cancer.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 705 surgeons who attended the 2011 China Surgical Week's meeting in Beijing. A questionnaire regarding the risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of pancreatic cancer was used. Surgeons' answers were analyzed and compared among different regions, levels of hospital, and professional ranks.Results: Most surgeons had a correct knowledge toward the risk factors, diagnosis, and management of pancreatic cancer. However, several knowledge gaps were identified. They include "The association between type 2 diabetes and pancreatic cancer", "The most common histologic type of pancreatic neoplasm", "the typical clinical symptoms of pancreatic cancer", "The accuracy of ultrasound in screening pancreatic cancer", "Enhanced CT in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer", and "Which is more superior between MRI and CT in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer". We also found that overall surgeons' responses did not depend on their geographic locations, but on hospital levels and professional ranks. Surgeons working at level three hospitals had better knowledge than others in certain areas and resident surgeons had fewer correct answers in some areas.Conclusions: Although most surgeons have a good knowledge in most areas related to the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer in China, certain knowledge gaps exist, particularly among trainees and those from low level hospitals. Continuing medical education programs to improve these knowledge gaps should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Height-diameter relationship is one of the most important stature characteristics of trees. It will change with climatic conditions because height and diameter growth displays different sensitivities to climatic factors such as temperature. Detecting and understanding changes in the stature of trees growing along altitudinal gradients up to their upper limits can help us to better understand the adaptation strategy of trees under global warming conditions. On Changbai Mountain in northeastern China, height-diameter datasets were collected for 2723 Erman's birch (Betula ermanii Cham.) in the alpine treeline ecotone in 2006 and 2013, and for 888 Erman's birch, spruce (Picea jezoensis Siebold & Zucc. Carr.), larch (Larix olgensis A. Henry), and fir (Abies nephrolepis Trautv. ex Maxim.) along an altitudinal gradient below the alpine treeline in 2006. These datasets were utilized to explore both changes in the stature of birch at the alpine treeline over time and variations in tree stature of different tree species across altitudes at a given time point (2006). Results showed that birch saplings (<140 cm in height) became stunted while birches with a height of >140 cm became more tapered in the alpine treeline ecotone. The stature of birch along the altitudinal gradient became more tapered from 1700 to 1900 m above see level (a.s.l.) and then became more stunted from 1900 to 2050 m a.s.l., with 1900 m a.s.l. being the altitudinal inflection point in this pattern. The treeline birch, due to its great temperature magnitude of distribution, displayed higher stature-plasticity in terms of its height-diameter ratio than the lower elevation species studied. The stature of birch is strongly modulated by altitude-related temperature but also co-influenced by other environmental factors such as soil depth and available water, wind speed, and duration and depth of winter snow cover. The high stature-plasticity of birch makes it fare better than other species to resist and adapt to, as well as to survive and develop in the harsh alpine environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The glabrous assimilating branch of xerophytes can absorb atmospheric water resources. • The water taken up by the branches could be transported downward through the xylem. • The uptake of atmospheric water mitigated the drought stress in Calligonum mongolicum. • Foliar water uptake improved the photosynthetic capacity in Calligonum mongolicum. Atmospheric water is among the most important water sources for plants in arid ecosystems and plays an important role in facilitating drought stress survival in plants. However, little is known about the specific physiological benefits of foliar water uptake (FWU) for woody plants inhabiting arid desert areas. The objective of this study was to explore the physiological responses of Calligonum mongolicum to atmospheric water uptake by the assimilating branches, with a special focus on the FWU effect on shoot water status and photosynthesis. To this end, the canopies of natural C. mongolicum plants in a desert region of northwestern China were humidified in a field in-situ misting experiment and a long-term wetting experiment, during which physiological measurements of plant water relations and photosynthetic capacity were performed, alongside the observation of FWU by H 2 18O isotopic tracing. Following the in-situ misting experiment, the water potential of the assimilating branches was significantly higher than that of the secondary branches at midnight, suggesting that FWU resulted in a reverse water potential gradient in C. mongolicum at the branch level. The 18O isotope was markedly enriched in the assimilating branches, secondary branches, and trunk xylem following the foliar uptake of 18O labeled water, indicating that the water uptake from the atmosphere by the assimilating branches could replenish the stem. The relative water content and water potential of the assimilating branches were significantly increased by FWU. The net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and maximum photochemical efficiency of C. mongolicum plants were markedly increased following the wetting treatment. Our results clearly show that C. mongolicum is capable of FWU, and that the absorbed water could be transported downward through the xylem and improve the branch water status and photosynthetic capacity. These findings provide a new perspective for deepening our understanding of the drought survival mechanism of plants in arid environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autonomic dysfunction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may increase the risks of arrhythmia and sudden death. We studied cardiac autonomic function in patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD).Methods: Patients with AECOPD were classified into ventricular tachycardia (VT) and non-VT groups according to the presence or absence of VT. The following parameters derived from 24-h Holter monitoring were compared between groups: average heart rate, heart rate deceleration capacity (DC), heart rate acceleration capacity (AC), standard deviation of normal RR intervals (SDNN), standard deviation of average RR interval in 5-min segments (SDANN), root mean square of standard deviations of differences between adjacent normal RR intervals (rMSSD), low-frequency power (LF), high-frequency power (HF) and LF/HF ratio.Results: Seventy patients were included, 22 in the VT group and 48 in the non-VT group. The groups had similar clinical characteristics (except for more common amiodarone use in the VT group, P < 0.05) and general ECG characteristics. DC, SDNN, SDANN and rMSSD were lower and AC higher in the VT group (P < 0.05). In the VT group, DC was correlated positively with SDNN (r = 0.716), SDANN (r = 0.595), rMSSD (r = 0.571) and HF (r = 0.486), and negatively with LF (r = -0.518) and LF/HF (r = -0.458) (P < 0.05). AC was correlated negatively with SDNN (r = -0.682), SDANN (r = -0.567) and rMSSD (r = -0.548) (P < 0.05).Conclusions: DC decreased and AC increased in patients with AECOPD and VT, reflecting an imbalance in autonomic regulation of the heart that might increase the risk of sudden death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conjunctive model was established to regulate surface water and groundwater allocations in an arid river basin in northwest China. In the model, water data for the current year was used to calculate the optimal water resources allocation in the basin for a future year. Results showed that the current water resources were sufficient to meet the highest priority water needs (daily life, industry, ecological environment), but there was insufficient water to meet the needs of arable agriculture, including irrigation, in its current form. The model results highlight the need for reduced groundwater exploitation, agricultural planning and protection of the ecological environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poststroke cavovarus foot greatly affects patients' activities of daily life and raises the risks of falls and consequent fractures. Acupuncture appears to be safe and effective in promoting motor functions and enhancing the activities of daily life among patients with poststroke cavovarus foot. The current study aims to study the biomechanical effect of acupuncture for poststroke cavovarus foot with objective outcome measurements. Methods/design: This is an assessor and analyst-blinded, randomized, controlled pilot study. A total of 60 eligible patients with poststroke cavovarus foot will be allocated by a 1:1 ratio into an acupuncture treatment group and a control group. Patients in the control group will receive conventional rehabilitation therapies, whereas a combination of acupuncture and conventional rehabilitation therapies will be applied in the acupuncture group. The primary outcome measures are three objective biomechanical parameters from the RSSCAN gait system: varus angle, dynamic plantar pressure distribution, and static plantar contact area. Scores of the Berg Balance Scale, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, and the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale, as well as other biomechanical parameters such as the step length and width, step time phase, and weight shifting phase will be selected as secondary outcome measurements. All assessments will be conducted at baseline, 4 weeks after the treatment course, and after a follow-up period of 3 months. Discussion: Results of the current study will provide detailed interpretations of the biomechanical effect of acupuncture for stroke rehabilitation and foundations for future larger clinical studies. Trial Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-IPC-15006889 (8 August 2015). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the need for international climate change negotiation and national sustainable development increases, China has announced its energy conservation and emission reduction target, in which building energy consumption is an important part. The energy consumption and total energy consumption of classified buildings in China during 2004-2013 are calculated, taking into consideration the characteristics of China's building sector. The LMDI (Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index) method is adopted to carry out the factor decomposition research and discussion of the four factors influencing the energy consumption (comprising different building types of GFA (gross floor area) per capita, the energy consumption per unit GFA, the urban population proportion, and the total population) of China's building sector. The results show that the continuous increase of GFA per capita is the primary factor influencing the increase in China's building energy consumption and the increase of urbanization ratio is the secondary factor. Meanwhile, controlling building energy consumption per unit GFA is the effective way to decrease the total energy consumption. The core method of controlling the energy consumption demands of China's building sector in the future is to reasonably control the future GFA per capita and to simultaneously take corresponding measures to reduce the building energy consumption per unit GFA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hundreds of millions of people around the world are currently exposed to excessive amounts of fluoride (F-) in drinking water. Although the factors controlling the spatiotemporal distribution of F- contents have been analyzed, their contributions have rarely been quantified. In this study, 510 water samples were collected in the dry and wet seasons in China's Loess Plateau to investigate the spatial and seasonal distribution, controlling factors, and potential health risks of F- in natural water. High-F- waters were mainly distributed in valley areas of the Loess Plateau, and more severe fluoride pollution of streamwater and groundwater was found in the wet and dry seasons, respectively. Mineral dissolution, competitive adsorption, adsorption/desorption and cation exchange jointly controlled F- enrichment. Spatiotemporal distribution of high-F- levels was mainly determined by climate and streamwater-groundwater connectivity in the dry season, with contribution rates of 41.7% and 37.6%, and by terrain and anthropogenic activities in the wet season, with contribution rates and 49.9–55.6% and 30.7%, respectively. Fluoride in groundwater through oral intake posed the greatest health risks to infants, followed by children, teenagers and adults in the dry and wet seasons. This study provides a scientific basis for the effective management of high-F- water in arid regions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2000, there has been an ambitious governmental effort to protect China's grassland resources through new, often controversial, policies and programs backed up by massive capital investments and subsidies. The policies are intended to protect pastoral ecological systems while allowing the pasture-based husbandry sector to continue to evolve in ways that assure acceptable revenues to affected families and regions. This article reports results of a case study conducted in Songpan County of western Sichuan during the fall of 2013 specifically focused on these issues and interactions. The mixed-method research combines remotely sensed MODIS vegetation indices (EVI), livestock counts by type, and grassland area estimates at the township scale from 2000-2012, with depth interviews with local herding families and husbandry officials to determine how the husbandry sector has changed in the past 12 years under post-2000 policy interventions. Results for Songpan indicate that pasture coverage has improved slightly as grazing livestock density per hectare declined, but herders and local officials report that some of the new laws and programs have important unanticipated negative impacts on pasture quality, pasture ecology, and economic returns from herding for some families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study was to demonstrate the therapeutic effects and mechanism of TDJW, a modern Chinese medicine prescription developed based on the basic traditional Chinese medicine theory of "tonifying the kidney essence," on the Aβ25-35-induced AD rats. The AD model was established by the intracerebroventricular administrations of Aβ 25-35 into the hippocampus CA1 tissue of SD male rats. 72 rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham operation, AD model, donepezil, high TDJW group, medium TDJW group, and low TDJW group. After oral administration of TDJW, the results of Morris water maze and step-down test showed that the learning and memory abilities of AD rats were significantly improved. And biochemical measurement demonstrated that Ach and Glu in hippocampus tissues of AD rats were increased as well. Moreover, the Aβ deposits and p-Tau aggregations in hippocampus CA1 tissues of AD rats were attenuated as observed in the micrographs of immunohistochemistry study, and the results of ELISA indicated that the expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in hippocampus tissues were significantly decreased. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that TDJW could be used as a promising therapeutic agent for the clinical applications of AD treatment in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heterogeneous uptake processes of sulfur dioxide on two types of Chinese mineral dust (Inner Mongolia desert dust and Xinjiang sierozem) were investigated using both Knudsen cell and smog chamber system. The temperature dependence of the uptake coefficients was studied over a range from 253 to 313 K using the Knudsen cell reactor, the initial uptake coefficients decreased with the increasing of temperature for these two mineral dust samples, whereas the steady state uptake coefficients of the Xinjiang sierozem increased with the temperature increasing, and these temperature dependence functions were obtained for the first time. In the smog chamber experiments at room temperature, the steady state uptake coefficients of SO2 decreased evidently with the increasing of sulfur dioxide initial concentration from 1.72 × 1012 to 6.15 × 1012 mol/cm3. Humid air had effect on the steady state uptake coefficients of SO2 onto Inner Mongolia desert dust. Consequences about the understanding of the uptake processes onto mineral dust samples and the environmental implication were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2010, a cluster of suicides at the electronics manufacturing giant Foxconn Technology Group sparked worldwide outcry about working conditions at its factories in China. Within a few short months, 14 young migrant workers jumped to their deaths from buildings on the Foxconn campus, an all-encompassing compound where they had worked, eaten, and slept. Even though the language of workplace dignity was invoked in official responses from Foxconn and its business partner Apple, neither of these parties directly examined workers' dignity in their ensuing audits. Based on our analysis of media accounts of life at Foxconn, we argue that its total institution structure imposed unique indignities on its workers that both raised questions of their self-respect and self-worth, as well as gave rise to multiple episodes of disrespectful communication. We interpret our findings in light of the larger cultural context and meanings of work in China to understand more fully the experience of dignity of Foxconn's migrant workforce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The transmission of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is influenced by population dynamics of its main host, rodents. It is therefore important to better understand rodents’ characteristic in epidemic areas. Methodology/Principal Findings: We examined the potential impact of food available and climatic variability on HFRS rodent host and developed forecasting models. Monthly rodent density of HFRS host and climate data in Changsha from January 2004 to December 2011 were obtained. Monthly normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and temperature vegetation dryness index (TVDI) for rice paddies were extracted from MODIS data. Cross-correlation analysis were carried out to explore correlation between climatic variables and food available with monthly rodent data. We used auto-regressive integrated moving average model with explanatory variables to examine the independent contribution of climatic variables and food supply to rodent density. The results indicated that relative rodent density of HFRS host was significantly correlated with monthly mean temperatures, monthly accumulative precipitation, TVDI and NDVI with lags of 1–6 months. Conclusions/Significance: Food available plays a significant role in population fluctuations of HFRS host in Changsha. The model developed in this study has implications for HFRS control and prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the need for the Chinese government to improve access to anti-schistosome treatment. Schistosomiasis, caused by trematode blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma, is considered the second most prevalent disease after malaria in the tropical and subtropical world. Among five schistosome species, Schistosoma japonicum is the most deadly, mainly because of its high egg output. This parasite is endemic in mainland China, the Philippines and Indonesia. Details on the symptoms of this disease are also highlighted.

Background: Recently, an infant and child feeding index (ICFI) constructed on brief recalls of breastfeeding, feeding frequency and food diversification was assumed to provide long-term prediction about child feeding practices. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the cross-sectional ICFI (CS-ICFI) or longitudinal ICFI (L-ICFI) and child anthropometric indices in downtown Shanghai, China. Methods: The prospective cohort study included 180 infants aged 5-7 mo with their main caregivers who were visited 3 times every 6 months over 12 months. A CS-ICFI was constructed for each visit by using data on feeding practices based on 24-h and 7-d recalls. An L-ICFI was constructed with use of the 3 CS-ICFIs. The associations between ICFI and length-for-age z score (LAZ), weight-for-age z score (WAZ), and weight-for-length z score (WLZ) were examined. The stability of the CS-ICFI was assessed by using repeatability coefficient (RC). Results: The L-ICFI was positively associated with LAZ and WAZ at Visit 3(beta = 0.151, P = 0.040 and beta = 0.173, P = 0.024, respectively). Moreover, the CS-ICFI at Visit 1 was positively associated with LAZ, WAZ and WLZ (beta = 0.160, P = 0.029; beta = 0.191, P = 0.009; beta = 0.176, P = 0.020) at Visit 3, and the CS-ICFI at Visit 3 was also positively associated with LAZ (beta = 0.176, P = 0.016). Stability of the CS-ICFI was shown by the value of 0.14 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.31) of the RC, which differed significantly from 0 (P<0.05). Conclusions: The ICFI constructed on brief recalls based on cross-sectional studies can be used to evaluate the effects of child feeding practice on child growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper elaborated the facility management present condition and existent question of Jinan city urban municipal services, and surrounded “safety, service, supervision” three subjects of municipal services, proposed the construction object of “Digital Municipality” and discussed “Digital Municipality” design concept and design content based on hierarchical architecture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper analyses the economic, social and ecological benefits of projects of the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) in China during the past two-and-a-half decades. An investigation was carried out through field visits to Jilin, Anhui, Shaanxi and Qinghai provinces and a comprehensive assessment was made of 12 IFAD projects in 13 provinces. The authors offer a systematic examination of the projects' impact on China's rural poverty reduction in five respects: food security, women and vulnerable groups, government policies on poverty reduction, state policies on rural finance, and institutional and capacity building of the Chinese government and the community. It is concluded that IFAD projects have achieved outstanding results and far-reaching impacts, and have played an important role in rural poverty reduction. Finally, with regard to policy recommendations, the authors propose that the Chinese government should: (a) continue to cooperate with IFAD for rural poverty reduction; (b) play IFAD's demonstrative role in other poor areas of China; and (c) facilitate the institutional reform of China's rural financial system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]