[The analysis of prevalence of pneumoconiosis and civil aid and medical care among xiangyang-chongqing railway construction workers in Chongqing from 2011 to 2018]

Objective: To analyze the prevalence of pneumoconiosis and civil aid and medical care among Xiangyang-Chongqing railway construction workers in Chongqing from 2011 to 2018, so as to provide scientific basis for prevention and control of pneumoconiosis. Methods: The Chongqing database of Xiangyang-Chongqing railway construction workers cases from 2011 to 2018 were subjected to systematic collected. SPSS 18.0 was adopted for statistical description and analysis. Results: From 2011 to 2018, a total of 7031 silicosis cases were diagnosed, and 5827 cases were existed, including 4056 cases of stage I, 1491 cases of stage II, and 280 cases of stage III. The cases were concentrated in the area along the southwest to northeast of Chongqing. The diagnosis age of silicosis patients was mainly 60~64 years old (69.73%) . Most silicosis cases were the drill workers and the stone workers. The exposure time of silicosis patients was short and concentrated in 3 years. The 5827 cases of pneumoconiosis in the Xiangyang-Chongqing railway were all treated with special civil aid and medical care for pneumoconiosis in the Xiangyang-Chongqing railway. Conclusion: The prevalence of silicosis among workers who participated in Xiangyang-Chongqing railway construction remained serious. Civil aid and medical care covers all silicosis patients. Occupational health surveillance for silicosis and assistance should be carried out in these workers.

[Epidemiological analysis of new pneumoconiosis among workers in coal industry in Chongqing]

Objective: To analyze the incidence of pneumoconiosis among workers in the coal industry in the past 13 years in Chongqing, understand the different epidemiological characteristics of new pneumoconiosis among workers in the coal industry in the city, provide basic evidence for the prevention and treatment of pneumoconiosis. Methods: Collecting new cases of pneumoconiosis diagnosed in the coal industry in Chongqing in January 2006-May 2018, and analyze its epidemiological characteristics. Results: In January 2006-May 2018, 25329 cases of pneumoconiosis were added to workers in the coal industry in Chongqing, and 23, 328 cases were present, all male. Among the existing cases: coal workers' pneumoconiosis accounted for 89.30%, silicosis accounted for 10.70%; age distribution was 50-59 years old. The main, accounting for 45.19%, the average age of onset was 52.21±7.45 years; the actual dusting age was mainly 10-19 years, the average actual working age was 17.52±8.47 years; the distribution of the work was mainly by the main coal mining (53.20%) ; There are more new cases in enterprises, accounting for 88.86%; distributed in 36 districts and counties. Conclusion: There was a large number of new pneumoconiosis diseases in the coal industry in Chongqing. Different measures should be taken according to the characteristics of different enterprises, and relevant enterprises should be urged to take the initiative to carry out occupational health surveillance, effectively protect the health of workers, improve the coordination mechanism, improve medical security, and gradually realize government assistance and Social care is combined.

[The analysis of prevalence of pneumoconiosis and assistance guarantee of the migrant workers of the district in Chongqing from 2006 to 2017]

Objective: To analyze the prevalence of pneumoconiosis and assistance guarantee of the migrant workers of the district in Chongqing from 2006 to 2017, so as to provide scientific basis for prevention and control of pneumoconiosis of the migrant workers. Methods: The database of new pneumoconiosis cases of the migrant workers and assistance guarantee of the district in Chongqing from 2006 to 2017 were subjected to systematic arrangement. SPSS 18.0 was adopted for statistical description and analysis. Results: From 2006 to 2017 a total of 2188 new cases of pneumoconiosis were diagnosed, including I (917, 41.91%) , II (1003, 45.84%) , III (268, 12.25%) . Most of new cases of pneumoconiosis were silicosis. The median length of seniority was 6 years. The mean diagnostic age was 44.25. Significant difference was found in diagnosis age between different stages (F=3.161, P=0.043) . 98.77% of migrant workers had no units. There were 5.07% of migrant workers who took out industrial injury insurance, 14.58% receiving civil aid, 31.12% receiving aid from poverty alleviation, and 93.46% participating medical insurance. Conclusion: The prevalence of pneumoconiosis of the migrant workers of the district in Chongqing was serious. The prevention and control of pneumoconiosis should be enhanced to reduce the harm of pneumoconiosis of the migrant workers in Chongqing.

[Association between elective cesarean delivery and duration of breastfeeding in Ma'anshan City from 2013 to 2014]

Objective: To analyze the correlation between elective cesarean delivery and duration of breastfeeding in Ma'anshan city from 2013 to 2014. Methods: From May 2013 to September 2014, a total of 3 474 pregnant women with the first prenatal checkup were recruited from Ma'anshan maternal and child health care hospital. Finally, 3 109 pregnant women were included after exclusion of those with terminated pregnancies, adverse birth outcomes, twin or multiple pregnancies, breech traction, breech midwifery and loss of delivery information. Demographic data of pregnant women, mode of delivery and breast feeding of children were collected through questionnaires and hospital records. Logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between elective cesarean delivery and duration of breastfeeding in children, with the mode of delivery as independent variable and the duration of breastfeeding as dependent variable. Results: The age of 3 109 subjects was (26.6±3.6) years old, the rate of vaginal delivery was 51.1% (1 589), and the rate of elective cesarean delivery was 46.4% (1 443), among which the rate of non-indicative elective cesarean delivery was 26.4% (820), the rate of indicative elective cesarean delivery was 20.0% (623), and the rate of emergency cesarean delivery was 2.5% (77). The proportion of breastfeeding lasting until 4, 12 and 18 months was 45.0% (1 348/2 998), 23.7% (702/2 962) and 5.2% (154/2 944), respectively. After adjusting the confounding factors, compared with vaginal delivery, the OR (95%CI) values of breastfeeding for 4 months in indicative elective cesarean delivery and non-indicative elective cesarean delivery women were 0.870(0.714-1.059), 0.795(0.665-0.949), and the OR (95%CI) values of breastfeeding for 12 months were 0.772(0.611-0.975), 0.755(0.610-0.934), respectively. Conclusion: Elective cesarean delivery may result in shorter duration of breastfeeding in children.

[Placental microbiota and pregnancy]

The role of microbes in regulating the metabolism and immune function of the body has been highlighted. The interactions of host-microbe and microbial-microbe have existed before the birth. However, the existence of placental microbiota and their regulatory effects on pregnancy are still controversial. It was found that placental microbes might be implanted into the placenta via urogenital-placental, gastrointestinal-placental, and oral-placental routes. Microbiome may play a role in promoting the outcome of benign pregnancy, and the placental microbiota in pathological pregnancy may be associated to adverse pregnancy outcome. Placenta and amniotic fluid microbes have been linked to abortion, chorioamnionitis, premature rupture of membranes, premature delivery and stillbirth in Cultivation-dependent and Cultivation-independent studies. Obesity, gestational diabetes mellitus, probiotics and antibiotics during pregnancy may be the main factors affecting placenta microbiology.

[Situation analysis of timing of first visit of anti-mitochondrial antibody-positive patients]

Objective: To understand the basic information of anti-mitochondrial antibody (anti-AMA)-positive patients after initial diagnosis, and to set groundwork for further exploring the clinical significance of AMA in various diseases. Methods: Demographic data and related clinical information recorded through the Information System of Peking University People's Hospital from January 2013 to December 2016 were collected. Patients whose AMA and/or AMA-M2 first- tested as positive were recorded. Complications were classified according to the International Classification of Diseases. Results: A total of 1323 AMA positive cases were discovered for the first time. Among them, 78.0% were women, and the age of initial diagnosis was 56.8 ± 16.0 years. The first three initially diagnosed departments were rheumatology and immunology (37.4%), liver Disease (15.9%) and hematology (15.9%) relevant to musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases (45.2%), hematology and hematopoietic organs and immune diseases (30.6%) and circulatory system diseases (29.7%). There were 297 newly confirmed cases of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC); accounting for 89.2% of women, and the age of initial diagnosis was 60.1 ± 12.4 years. The top three departments of initially diagnosed as PBC were liver disease (37.7%), rheumatology (33.0%) and gastroenterology (15.2%), of which 39.7% had musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases, 27.9% had circulatory diseases, and 24.9 % were combined with endocrine and metabolic diseases. Conclusion: Besides PBC and other autoimmune diseases, AMA and / or AMA-M2 positivity can be observed in a variety of diseases in several clinical departments, and its clinical significance remains to be further clarified.

MiR-361-3p/Nfat5 Signaling Axis Controls Cementoblast Differentiation

The development of periodontal tissue is a complex process, including cementoblast proliferation and differentiation. Emerging reports suggest that microRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in gene regulatory networks governing numerous biological processes. However, how miRNAs modulate cementoblast proliferation and differentiation remains largely unknown. In a previous study, we performed miRNA microarray profiling to fully reveal the expression patterns of miRNAs involved in cementoblast differentiation. We focused on miR-361-3p, which decreased during cementoblast differentiation. Overexpression of miR-361-3p resulted in decreased cementoblast differentiation, whereas the functional inhibition of miR-361-3p yielded the opposite effect. The bioinformatics approach identified nuclear factor of activated T-cell 5 (Nfat5) as a potential target of miR-361-3p, which was further verified by dual luciferase assay. Meanwhile, the expression pattern of Nfat5 was verified both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, knockdown of Nfat5 mimicked the inhibitory effect of overexpressing miR-361-3p in cementoblasts. Moreover, multiple signaling pathways, including the Erk1/2, JNK, p38, PI3K-Akt, and NF-κB pathways, were notably activated, and the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway was blocked by downregulation of Nfat5 or forced expression of miR-361-3p in cementoblast differentiation. Finally, the complementary approach demonstrated that miR-361-3p regulated cementoblast differentiation via or partially via Erk1/2 and PI3K-Akt. Overall, our study elucidated that the JNK, p38, NF-κB, and Wnt/ß-catenin pathways act as balancing players in the miR-361-3p/Nfat5 signaling axis during cementoblast differentiation.

[Efficacy and safety of vandetanib on advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma: single center result from a phase Ⅲ study]

Objective: There is no effective therapy for patients with advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Vandetanib,a novel multitargeted receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has previously shown antitumor activity in phase Ⅱ studies of patients with advanced MTC. This study was to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of vandetanib on advanced MTC. Methods: This study was an open, international multi-center phase Ⅲ clinical trial and the study number was NCT01298323. The single-center study was a sub-group analysis of the international study, which was conducted on 9 pathologically confirmed advanced MTC patients by Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences between March 2012 and October 2017. Vandetanib (300 mg) was orally administered daily till death or withdrawal. The efficacy was evaluated according to RECIST criteria and the adverse events were evaluated according to NCI criteria. Results: The objective response rate was 3/9,and the disease control rate was 4/9. The median progression-free survival was 44 months. All patients who had the elevated levels of calcitonin (CTN) and carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA) before treatment began to show the decreases in the level of CTN and CEA after 3 months and later showed again the increases in the levels of both tumor markers with tumor progression. By ROC curve analysis, CTN was of statistically significance(P<0.05, 95%CI 0.558-0.834), but CEA was not(P>0.05). Adverse events were generally mild (grade 1 or 2),including hypertension (9 cases),skin rash (9 cases), and diarrhea (6 cases). Two patients developed grade 3 elevation of serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase and one patient developed grade 3 elevation of drug-related bowel disease. No grade 4 drug-related adverse event occurred. Conclusions: Vandetanib is effective and well tolerated for patients with locally advanced or metastatic MTC who have no chance for surgery. This indicates the increase of CTN is clinically relevant to disease progression, but the number of patients are extremely low, and, therefore further research is needed. Long-term use of vandetanib may cause resistance.

Alterations of the circular RNA profile in the jejunum of neonatal calves in response to colostrum and milk feeding

Circular RNA (circRNA) have been suggested to contribute to regulating gene expression in various tissues and cells of eukaryotes. However, little is known regarding the expression pattern of circRNA and their potential function in the small intestine of neonatal calves that receive colostrum. In the current study, jejunum tissue samples were collected from control calves (2 h after birth; CT; n = 3) and neonatal calves that ingested colostrum (24 h after birth; CO; n = 3) or milk (24 h after birth; MK; n = 3) to compare the circRNA expression patterns using a high-throughput RNA sequencing approach. A total of 21,213, 17,861, and 21,737 circRNA were identified in the CT, CO, and MK groups, respectively. Only 13,254 of these circRNA were common to the 3 groups, suggesting high specificity of circRNA expression depending on nutrient type. In total, 243, 249, and 283 circRNA were differentially expressed in the CO versus CT, CO versus MK, and MK versus CT comparisons, respectively. Gene ontology analysis showed that the differentially expressed circRNA and their predicted or known target genes from the CO and MK groups were mainly involved in macromolecule metabolic process, response to stress, and vesicle-mediated transport. Moreover, pathway analysis showed that the Rap1 signaling pathway, focal adhesion, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, and extracellular matrix-receptor interaction were the most significantly enriched pathways. These data collectively indicate that circRNA are abundant and dynamically expressed when calves receive colostrum and act as microRNA sponges to regulate their target genes for jejunum function during the early development of newborn calves.

[Clinical study on liver function, virology, serological changes and the safety of drug withdrawal in pregnant women who are chronic HBV carriers during pregnancy and postpartum]

Objective: To observe the changes of liver function, virology and serology and the safety of drug withdrawal in pregnant women who are chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers. Methods: A prospective clinical cohort was established to enroll pregnant women who are chronic HBV carriers and they were divided into the nucleoside/nucleotide analogs (NAs) intervention group and the non-NAs intervention group according to patients' wishes. Liver function, HBV DNA and HBV serological markers were detected at gestation, postpartum 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 24 weeks, 36 weeks and 48 weeks. Results: 351 patients were enrolled, 320 in the NAs intervention group and 31 in the non-NAs intervention group. The proportion of postpartum hepatitis flares in both groups was higher than that in pregnancy (39.4% vs 12.5%, P < 0.001; 38.7% vs 3.2%, P = 0.001). Six weeks postpartum was the peak period of hepatitis flares, and 96.0% (121/126) of the hepatitis flares occurred within 24 weeks postpartum. At 6 weeks postpartum, there were 6 cases of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≥ 10 times upper limit of normal (ULN) in the NAs intervention group. The rate of the hepatitis flare after drug withdrawal was 16.7% (34/203). Conclusion: Regardless of the presence or absence of NAs intervention, pregnant women who are chronic HBV carriers have a certain proportion of hepatitis flares during pregnancy and postpartum, and the hepatitis flare even have a tendency to be severe. Therefore, drug withdrawal after delivery is not always safe, which requires close observation and classification. At 6 weeks postpartum, the incidence of hepatitis flares was high, and those who meet the treatment indications can get better therapeutic effects if given appropriate treatment. The vast majority (96%) of postpartum hepatitis flares occur within 24 weeks, so it is recommended to follow up to at least 24 weeks postpartum after discontinuation.

[Management of liver dysfunction during pregancy and postpartum in pregnant women who are chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus]

The reports of liver dysfunction during pregnancy or postpartum have gradually increased in pregnant women who are chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus (HBV), but there is no consensus on when to intervene and how to deal with it. This article reviewed recent literature reports and found that pregnant women who are chronic carriers of HBV, regardless of intervention of nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs), have a certain proportion of hepatitis flares or severe disease during pregnancy and postpartum, suggesting that postpartum drug withdrawal is not always safe, and close follow-up is required. Furthermore, it recommends that treatment should be in accordance to the gestational weeks and ALT levels. NAs are the main treatment choice in the onset of hepatitis flares during pregnancy, however, postpartum hepatitis flares requires NAs or interferon therapy, and it have been reported that combination of NAs and interferon might achieve higher therapeutic response.

[Association between maternal tea consumption in pregnancy and birth outcomes]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between maternal tea consumption and birth outcomes. Methods: From January 2005 to December 2010, pregnant women were recruited from Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Hospital. The basic information and the situation of tea consumption during pregnancy were investigated using questionnaire and the birth outcomes of newborns were followed up. Finally, 500 pairs of mothers and infants with complete and standard-compliant data were included in the analysis. The differences of birth outcomes between the tea consumption group and the non tea consumption group were compared and the associations between tea consumption and birth outcomes were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Mother's tea consumption rate was 32.8% (164 cases) during pregnancy. The rate of low birth weight in the tea consumption group was (5.5%, 9 cases) and higher than that in the non-tea consumption group (2.1%, 7 cases) (P=0.042). There was no significant difference in the rate of premature birth, small for gestational age, fetal distress, and macrosomia between the two groups After the adjustment of maternal age, education level, family income, weight gain during pregnancy, pre-pregnancy BMI, parity, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, neonatal gender and gestational age, compared with non-tea consumption group, there was a positive effect on low birth weight, OR(95%CI) was 4.76 (1.06-21.48). The OR (95%CI) value of the low birth weight risk of the tea group was 5.30 (1.04-26.92) compared with the non-tea consumption group after the adjustment of additional factors such as passive smoking, coffee consumption, folic acid supplement, mineral supplement, carbonated beverage consumption. Simultaneously, compared with non-tea consumption group, there was no statistically significant association between tea consumption during pregnancy and premature birth, small for gestational age, fetal distress and macrosomia (P>0.05). Conclusion: Tea consumption during pregnancy was a risk factor for low birth weight in offspring.

[Correlation between pregnancy-induced hypertension and age in pregnant women from Hebei province, 2016]

Objective: To analyze the correlation between age and pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) in pregnant women from Hebei province in 2016. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted by using the clinical data of 64 909 pregnant women, delivering in 22 hospitals in Hebei in 2016. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the general data and pregnancy outcomes of pregnant women, and χ(2) test was used to compare the incidence of PIH in different age groups, and logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors for PIH. Results: The incidence of PIH was lowest in 20-29 year old women, and increased obviously in those aged<20 and>35 years (P<0.05), and the incidence was positively correlated with age. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, times of pregnancy, number of previous cesarean section and fetus number of current pregnancy were the risk factors for PIH (OR=1.293, 1.153, 1.307, 3.607), while times of deliver and times of prenatal examination were the protective factors (OR=0.655, 0.951). Conclusion: Advanced age pregnancy and young age pregnancy would significantly increase the incidence of PIH. Prenatal care should be strengthened for pregnant women at risk for PIH.

[Application of chromosomal analysis for 29 cases of fetuses with nasal bone absence or hypoplasia]

Objectives: To explore the chromosomal analysis for fetuses with nasal bone absence or hypoplasia. Methods: This was a retrospective study on 29 pregnancies nasal bone absence or hypoplasia which underwent prenatal diagnosis, including chorionic villi (CV), amniotic fluid or cordocentesis.The indication of the procedures and results were evaluated. Result: Fifteen (51.7%, 15/29) of chromosome abnormities were diagnosed with indication of fetal nasal bone absence or hypoplasia, including eight with trisomy 21, two with trisomy 13, two with X chromosome aneuploidy and three with pathogenic copy number variations (CNVs) respectively.The incidence of chromosomal abnormalities in fetus with nasal bone hypoplasia (2/5, 40%) was lower than that in fetus with nasal bone absence (13/29, 54.2%). The incidence of chromosomal abnormalities in fetus with non-syndromic nasal bone absence or hypoplasia (4/13) was lower than that in fetus with syndromic nasal bone absence or hypoplasia (11/16). Conclusion: The incidence of chromosomal abnormalities in fetus with nasal bone absence or hypoplasia was higher and prenatal diagnosis was recommended for all types of the disease.For the fetus with nasal bone absence or hypoplasia, it is recommended to give priority to CNVs for prenatal diagnosis.

[Low-levels of HBsAg quantification at 48-week in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients are the advantageous population for HBsAg clearance]

Objective: To analyze the therapeutic effect on HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients treated with Peg-IFNα-2a combined with NAs to obtain the influencing factors for predicting HBsAg clearance. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to investigate the effect of pegylated interferon alpha-2a combined with nucleoside analogues (lamivudine/adefovir dipivoxil) on HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B. The treatment course was 96 weeks. Patients were followed up 120 weeks after the treatment. HBsAg clearance at 120 weeks was taken as the objective of the study. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis screened the related factors affecting HBsAg clearance. χ (2) test was used to compare count data. Results: 111 patients were treated with pegylated interferon alpha-2a combined with nucleoside analogues, and 107 patients completed the scheduled course of treatment and follow-up. HBsAg clearance rate at120 week was 29.0% (31/107). The influencing factors for analysis were: (1) gender had no effect on HBsAg clearance rate; age and baseline levels of HBV DNA and alanine aminotransferase had no significant effect on HBsAg clearance; low baseline level of HBsAg (< 3.023 lgIU/ml) was beneficial to HBsAg clearance. The area under the working characteristic curve of the subjects was 0.746, the positive predictive value was 44.4%, and the negative predictive value was 86.8%. (2) HBsAg quantification or decline in 24 weeks and 48 weeks of treatment had a good predictive effect on HBsAg clearance, and the 48 weeks predicted value was higher than 24 weeks. When the HBsAg quantification was≤2.070 lgIU/ml at 48 weeks, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.931, the positive predictive value was 52.8%, and the negative predictive value was 94.4%. When HBsAg decreased from baseline to≥0.991 lgIU/ml, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.888, the positive predictive value was 50.8%, and the negative predictive value was 97.9%. (3) The analysis of HBsAg subgroup levels at 48 weeks suggested that the "interval analysis" can forecast HBsAg clearance more exactly than "nodal analysis" .The final HBsAg clearance rate of 100 IU/ml < HBsAg≤1 000 IU/ml, 10 IU/ml < HBsAg≤100 IU/ml and HBsAg≤10 IU/ml groups reached 6.7%, 31.8% and 67.7%, respectively. (4) The ALT abnormal group in the course of treatment obtained a higher HBsAg clearance rate (48.0%, 12/25). Conclusion: 96-weeks long-term treatment with pegylated interferon-alpha -alpha-2a combined with nucleoside analogues for HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B has a good predictive value for HBsAg clearance at baseline and during treatment. The "interval level" of HBsAg at 48-weeks is more accurate in predicting HBsAg clearance, suggesting that HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients with low HBsAg levels at 48-weeks are the advantageous populations with HBsAg clearance. These patients are worthy of prolonged treatment to pursue "clinical cure".

[Accuracy analysis of computer assisted navigation for condylectomy via intraoral approach]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application accuracy of virtual preoperative plan after the condylectomy via intraoral approach under computer assisted surgical navigation, and to analyze the location and cause of the surgical deviation to provide reference for the surgical procedure improvement in the future.

METHODS

In the study, 23 cases with condylar hypertrophy (11 with condylar osteochondroma and 12 with condylar benign hypertrophy) in Department of Oral and Maxilloficial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Atomatology from December 2012 to December 2016 were treated by condylectomy via intraoral approach under computer assisted surgical navigation. The patient's spiral CT data were imported into ProPlan software before operation, and the affected mandibular ramus was reconstructed three-dimensionally. The condylar osteotomy line was designed according to the lesion range, and the preoperative design model was generated and introduced into the BrainLab navigation system. Under the guidance of computer navigation, the intraoral approach was used to complete the condylar resection according to the preoperative design of the osteotomy line. Cranial spiral CT of the craniofacial region was taken within one week after operation. three-dimensional reconstruction of the mandibular ramus at the condylectomy side was performed, and the condylar section was divided into six segments (anterolateral, anterior, anteromedial, posteromedial, posterior, and posterolateral) and the corresponding regional measurement points P1 to P6 were defined. Then the preoperative virtual model and the postoperative actual model were matched by Geomagic studio 12.0 to compare the differences and to analyze the accuracy of the operation.

RESULTS

All the patients had successfully accomplished the operation and obtained satisfactory results. Postoperative CT showed that the condyle lesion was completely resected, and the condylar osteotomy line was basically consistent with the surgical design. No tumor recurrence or temporomandibular joint ankylosis during the follow-up period. The postoperative accuracy analysis of the condylar resection showed that the confidence intervals measured by the six groups of P1 to P6 were (-2.26 mm, -1.89 mm), (-2.30 mm, -1.45 mm), (-3.37 mm, -2.91 mm), (-2.83 mm, -1.75 mm), (-1.13 mm, 0.99 mm), and(-1.17 mm, 0.17 mm), where P3 group was different from the other 5 groups. There was no significant difference between the P5 and P6 groups and the difference between the other four groups was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Under the guidance of computer navigation, the intraoral approach can be performed more accurately. The surgical deviation of each part of the osteotomy surface is mainly due to excessive resection. The anterior medial area of the anterior medial condyle represents the most excessive resection. The posterior and posterior lateral measurement points represent the posterior condylar area. The average deviation is not large, but the fluctuation of the deviation value is larger than that of the other four groups. The accuracy of computer-assisted subtotal resection has yet to be improved.

[Epidemiological characteristics and related risk factors on placental abruption in Hebei province]

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors and epidemiological characteristics of placental abruption (PA) in Hebei province. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data on 218 880 pregnant women who were hospitalized in 22 hospitals which were under a monitoring program, in Hebei province, from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2016. Data regarding epidemiological characteristics as time distribution, population distribution and related risk factors of placental abruption were gathered and analyzed. Results: In this cohort study, 218 880 women were included, with 669 (0.31%) of the pregnant women having PA. The overall prevalence rates were higher in the South than in the north parts of the area and higher in more developed regional economic centers. The average age of women having the episode was (27.87±4.50) years and presented "J" distribution on the prevalence of maternal age. Results from the multivariate regression analysis showed that the following factors were independently at risk for placental abruption: pregnancy the including hypertension (OR=1.65, 95%CI: 1.09-2.50), mild preeclampsia (OR=3.65, 95%CI: 2.40-5.56), severe preeclampsia (OR=4.72, 95%CI: 3.86-5.76) and anemia (OR=2.41, 95%CI: 2.05-2.83) which were all increased in pregnant women with PA compared with the normal female population without placental abruption. Conclusions: Placental abruption seemed to be associated with a moderate increasing risk of age, and was seen higher in those population older than 35 or younger than 20 year-olds. It was suggested that appropriate inoculation programs should be taken in different regions, especially on high-risk groups. Health education on related disease was of great significance for improving the prenatal outcome.

[Clinical assessment of the radiotherapy and chemotherapy combined with cetuximabin in the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma]

Objective:The aim of this study is toinvestigate the clinical effect of radiotherapy and chemotherapy combined with cetuximab in the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.Method:Seventy-eight cases of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients were divided into control group(n=42) and treatment group(n=36).The control group was treated with radiotherapy and diamminedichloroplatinum;the treatment group was treated with radiotherapy and diamminedichloroplatinum combined with cetuximab.Short-term efficacy,survival time,and adverse reactions were documented during following up in both groups.Result:The efficiency in the treatment group (94.44%) was significantly higher than that in the control group(78.57%),P <0.05.There were no significant difference of adverse reaction including radiodermatitis,oral mucosa reaction,bone marrow inhibition,radiation induced brain injury between the two groups,P >0.05.The medium survival time of the treatment group(55 months) was significantly longer than that of the control group(48 months),P <0.05.4-year survival rate in treatment group(88.89%) was significantly higher than that in the control group(69.05%),P <0.05.4-year diseases free survival(DFS) rate in treatment group(75%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (59.52%),P <0.05.Conclusion:Radiotherapy and chemotherapy combined with cetuximab can significantly improve the treatment efficiency in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma,while do not lead to higher rate of adverse reactions.This treatment is worth being promoted in clinical application.

[The analysis of the epidemiological characteristics of pneumoconiosis notified in Chongqing from 2011 to 2015]

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and the harmfulness situation of pneumoconiosis notified in Chongqing from 2011 to 2015, so as to provide scientific basis for prevention and control of pneumoconiosis. Methods: The Chongqing database of new cases of pneumoconiosis reported from 2011 to 2015 was subjected to systematic arrangement. SPSS 18.0 was adopted for statistical description and trend test. Results: From 2011 to 2015 a total of 24903 new cases of pneumoconiosis were diagnosed, including I (16 294 cases, 65.43%), II (6 520 cases, 26.18%), III (2 089 cases, 8.39%). Of all patients, 98.93% were cases of coal-workers' pneumoconiosis and silicosis. 13 383 (53.74%) were coal-workers' pneumoconiosis cases, and 11 253 (45.19%) were silicosis cases. The pneumoconiosis cases were distributed mainly in Fengjie County (3 329 cases, 13.37%), Yongchuan District (2 849 cases, 11.44%), and Chengkou County (2 584 cases, 10.38%). Most cases were centered in mining industry (17 575 cases, 70.57%) and construction industry (6 613 cases, 26.56%). The median lengths of service at the onsets of new cases of pneumoconiosis, silicosis, coal-workers' pneumoconiosis were 7.0, 3.0, and 16.0 years, respectively. The median age at the onset of pneumoconiosis was shortened from 2011 to 2015. The median ages at the onsets of new cases of pneumoconiosis, silicosis, coal-workers' pneumoconiosis were 53.0, 62.0, and 49.0 years, respectively. Conclusion: The research results showed obvious diseases, regions and industries distribution. The median length of service at the onset of pneumoconiosis was on the low side, and a shortening trend showed in age at the onset of pneumoconiosis. Based on the epidemiological characteristics of pneumoconiosis, the prevention and control of pneumoconiosis should be enhanced in key industries such as mining industry and construction industry.

Ultraviolet lasing in Zn-rich ZnO microspheres fabricated by laser ablation

Zinc (Zn) surface plasmons (SPs) have been widely reported for their impressive performance in improving the optical properties of semiconductors. Zn is an effective metal with SPs response in the ultraviolet region, but the disadvantage of strong metal activity limits the application mentioned above. Here, in order to ensure the stability of metal Zn, ZnO/Zn microspheres were synthesized by an one-step laser ablation method to distribute Zn nanoparticles simultaneously on both inner and outer surfaces of ZnO microspheres. Lasing performance enhancement and a lower threshold were obtained in the composite which originates from the coupling between Zn SPs and the excitation light source. Accompanied by the lasing emission measurements, the coupling mechanism was explained through time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy (TRPL) for the samples by rapid annealing in situ. This work displays the results of lasing enhancement and the physical process of Zn SPs resonance in the ZnO/Zn microsphere.

[Cervical pharyngeal syndrome: a case report]

Summary Cervical pharyngeal syndrome is characterized by the symptom such as sore throat, foreign body sensation or swallowing discomfort which caused by the pathological changes of cervical intervertebral disc and intervertebral structure nonspecific injury. Because of the lack of obvious specificity, it is easy to misdiagnose. Here, we reported a case of cervical pharyngeal syndrome. The symptom were obviously improved after conservative treatment, but the follow-up time is short, and further follow-up is needed. In the process of diagnosis and treatment, in order to reduce misdiagnosis and mistreatment, we should strengthen the understanding of the disease, broaden the clinical thinking, and understand the anatomical relationship between the pharynx and the surrounding organs.

High stocking density alters bone-related calcium and phosphorus metabolism by changing intestinal absorption in broiler chickens

Live performance, bone health and metabolic responses to the interaction among stocking density and dietary concentrations of total calcium (TCa) and non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) were determined on 2,232 Ross 308 female broilers over a 3-wk experimental period. From 22 d of age, birds were randomly divided into 48 groups and provided with different corn-soybean meal-based diets varying in TCa (0.70% or 0.90%) and NPP (0.28% or 0.36%) content at 1 of 2 stocking densities [28.6 (LSD, 13 broilers/m2) and 39.6 (HSD, 18 broilers/m2) kg of predicted final BW/m2 floor space], according to a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design with 6 replications in each treatment. Regardless of NPP supplementation, a high-TCa (0.90%) diet aggravated the impact of HSD on growth (BW gain and feed efficiency, P < 0.001) and motility (gait score, P < 0.001). This might be explained by deteriorating tibia quality (relative weight, mineral composition and biomechanical property; P < 0.01), due to the involvement of decreasing duodenal absorption (type IIb sodium-phosphate co-transporter mRNA, P < 0.001) in reduced phosphorus retention (P < 0.001). On the contrary, increasing dietary NPP (0.36%), particularly if high in TCa (0.90%), boosted TCa retention (P < 0.05) by improving absorption (calcium-binding protein D28k transcription, P < 0.05) for LSD chickens, hence enhancing bone development (relative tibia weight and tibia breaking strength, P < 0.05) and leg health (walking ability, P < 0.05). Together, HSD and LSD birds show an impaired TCa tolerance and a higher TCa+NPP threshold, respectively, to allow the optimization of bone quality via altered intestinal absorption.

[Advances in the research of zinc deficiency and zinc supplementation treatment in patients with severe burns]

Zinc is one of the essential trace elements in human body, which plays an important role in regulating acute inflammatory response, glucose metabolism, anti-oxidation, immune and gastrointestinal function of patients with severe burns. Patients with severe burns may suffer from zinc deficiency because of insufficient amount of zinc intake from the diet and a large amount of zinc lose through wounds and urine. Zinc deficiency may affect their wound healing process and prognosis. This article reviews the characteristics of zinc metabolism in patients with severe burns through dynamic monitoring the plasma and urinary concentration of zinc. An adequate dosage of zinc supplemented to patients with severe burns by an appropriate method can increase the level of zinc in plasma and skin tissue and improve wound healing, as well as reduce the infection rates and mortality. At the same time, it is important to observe the symptoms and signs of nausea, dizziness, leukopenia and arrhythmia in patients with severe burns after supplementing excessive zinc.

[Metabolic Characteristics of Lethal Bradycardia Induced by Myocardial Ischemia]

OBJECTIVES

To explore the metabolic characteristics of lethal bradycardia induced by myocardial ischemia in rat's serum.

METHODS

A rat myocardial ischemia-bradycardia-sudden cardiac death （MI-B-SCD） model was established, which was compared with the sham-operation group. The metabolic profile of postmortem serum was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry （GC-MS）, coupled with the analysis of serum metabolic characteristics using metabolomics strategies.

RESULTS

The serum metabolic profiles were significantly different between the MI-B-SCD rats and the control rats. Compared to the control rats, the MI-B-SCD rats had significantly higher levels of lysine, ornithine, purine, serine, alanine, urea and lactic acid; and significantly lower levels of succinate, hexadecanoic acid, 2-ketoadipic acid, glyceraldehyde, hexendioic acid and octanedioic acid in the serum. There were some correlations among different metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS

There is obvious metabolic alterations in the serum of MI-B-SCD rat. Both lysine and purine have a high value in diagnosing MI-B-SCD. The results are expected to provide references for forensic and clinical applications of prevention and control of sudden cardiac death.

[Identification and evaluation of T cell epitopes of Rv0585c from Mycobacterium tuberculosis]

Objective: To investigate the human T cell epitopes of Mycobacterium (M.) tuberculosis Rv0585c protein antigen and their immunogenicity and provide evidence for the development of specific tuberculosis immune diagnostic techniques and tuberculosis vaccine. Methods: We synthesized peptides from M. tuberculosis Rv0585c protein antigen predicted by TE-predict and IEDB human T cell epitope prediction tool. The cellular immunoreactivity of the predicted peptides was evaluated through ELISpot assay with the peripheral blood monouclear cells (PBMC) of clinical tuberculosis patients. In animal experiments, BALB/c mice were respectively immunized with high dose (100 μg/mice) and low dose (50 μg/mice) of the peptides of Rv0585c, at the same time, high dose (50 μg/mice) and low dose (20 μg/mice) of Ag85B protein were used in positive control group. The levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4 and IL-10 were tested with ELISA kit respectively. Results: By means of bioinformatics technique, 66 human T cell epitopes of Rv0585c were predicted, from which9 peptides concentrated epitopes were synthesized for the animal immune experiments. Peptides P10110, P10112 and P10117 were confirmed to be antigenic. The sensitivity and specificity of P10110, P10112 and P10117 were 14.00%, 12.00%, 6.00% and 100.00%, 100.00%, 97.96% respectively when they were used as diagnostic reagents of tuberculosis. The sensitivity and specificity were 22.00% and 97.96% when the epitopes were combined together. The results of animal immunity test showed that high levels of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4 and IL-10 were induced by high and low dose of P10110, and high levels of IFN-γ、IL-2 and IL-10 were induced by high and low dose of P10112, which were much higher than that in negative controls, respectively (P<0.001). Conclusion: Rv0585c, including its human T cell epitopes, has good immunogenicity and immunoreactivity, stimulating the body to produce a stronger cellular immune response and has better potential application value in cellular diagnosis of tuberculosis and the development of new type of tuberculosis vaccine.

Expression and localization of Yap and Taz during development of the mandibular first molar in rats

Yes-associated protein (Yap) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (Taz) are two downstream factors in the Hippo signaling pathway. Yap and Taz participate in regulating organ size, stem cell self-renewal, proliferation and differentiation. We investigated the spatial-temporal expression and relative expression levels of Yap and Taz using immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction. We found Yap and Taz in the oral epithelium and mesenchyme at embryonic (E) day 14.5 (E14.5) and E16.5. By E18.5, Yap and Taz were detected in the dental papilla and the entire enamel organ. At postnatal (P) day 0 (PN0), PN3 and PN7, Yap and Taz expression was localized in ameloblasts, odontoblasts and stratum intermedium. Yap and Taz were expressed in Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) at PN7. At PN3, PN7 and PN14, Yap was detected in the enamel matrix. From PN21 to PN28, Yap and Taz were absent from differentiated ameloblasts, but they were expressed in odontoblasts. From PN0 to PN10, the Yap and Taz mRNA expression increased, then decreased. We found that Yap and Taz may influence the differentiation of ameloblasts and odontoblasts; they also may contribute to enamel mineralization, crown morphogenesis and root formation.

[Expression of sal-like 4 in primary hepatocellular carcinoma and its association with epithelial-mesenchymal transition]

Objective: To investigate the expression of sal-like 4 (SALL4) in tissues of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its association with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and clinicopathological characteristics. Methods: Immunohistochemistry and nucleic acid in situ hybridization were used to measure the mRNA expression of SALL4, epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin), vimentin, and Snail in 72 HCC samples, 2 fetal liver samples, and 2 normal adult liver tissue samples. Results: Strong expression of SALL4 was observed in hepatoblasts in fetal liver, but SALL4 expression was not observed in primitive hematopoietic cells and normal adult hepatocytes or biliary epithelial cells. In the HCC samples, the positive rate of SALL4 was 47.2% (34/72), showing focal positive nuclear staining. The HCC patients with microscopic microvascular tumor thrombus and portal vein tumor thrombus, a serum alpha-fetoprotein level of≥ 350 ng/ml, International Union Against Cancer (UICC) stage III+IV, and an age of < 46 years showed higher positive expression of SALL4 than those with no microscopic microvascular tumor thrombus or portal vein tumor thrombus, a serum alpha-fetoprotein level of < 350 ng/ml, UICC stage I+II, and an age of≥46 years. The HCC patients with positive SALL4 showed lower postoperative disease-free survival rate and overall survival rate than those with negative SALL4 (P < 0.05). Sixty percent of the patients with microvascular tumor thrombus (21/35) showed positive expression of SALL4. The positive rate of SALL4 was negatively correlated with E-cadherin (r = -0.434, P < 0.01), but positively correlated with vimentin and Snail (vimentin: r = 0.516, P < 0.01; Snail: r = 0.571, P < 0.01). Conclusion: In patients with primary HCC, the expression of SALL4 greatly affects EMT, which helps with the research on invasion and metastasis of liver cancer and prognostic evaluation.

[A randomized, single-blind, parallel-controlled and multicentre study: compare the efficacy and safety of domestic and imported human recombinant FSH in WHO group Ⅱ anovulatory infertility]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of domestic human recombinant FSH(rhFSH)in women with anovulation of WHO group Ⅱ.

METHODS

A randomized, blind, parallel-controlled, non-inferiority and multicenter study was performed. A total of 534 admitted to 13 hospitals from May 2008 to August 2009. There were 531 women with ovulatory disorder was included in the statistical analysis, were randomly divided into test group(domestic rhFSH, n=352)and control group(imported rhFSH, n=179). Percentage of cycle with mature follicle, ovulation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS)and adverse events were observed.

RESULTS

No statistical significant differences(P>0.05)were observed between the two groups in terms of the efficiency on mature follicle[91.8%(323/352)versus 88.8%(159/179)], ovulation rate[91.3%(295/323)verus 90.6%(144/159)], clinical pregnancy rate[19.2%(62/323)verus 18.2%(29/159)], the number of the follicles<14 mm, the level of serum LH and progesterone, the thickness of endometrium on the day of hCG administration. The number of follicle≥18 mm and 14 mm≤follicle<18 mm and the level of serum estradiol on the day of hCG in the test group were significantly higher than those in the control group(P<0.05). The number of days of rhFSH administration in the test group was significantly less than that in the control group[(9.8±2.2)versus(11.4± 0.6)days, P<0.05], the dosage of rhFSH was significantly lower than that in the control group[(879 ± 419)versus(1 043±663)U, P<0.05]. The multiple pregnancy rate in the test group was significantly higher than that in the control group[21%(13/62)versu 10%(3/29), P<0.05]. The incidence of OHSS and adverse events were similar between the two groups(P>0.05), and no other adverse events were observed in test group during treatment.

CONCLUSION

Ovarian stimulation with domestic rhFSH is effective, safe and economical in women with anovulation of WHO group Ⅱ.

Seasonal and photoperiodic regulation of reproductive hormones and related genes in Yangzhou geese

This study aimed at the reproductive endocrine profile under a natural photoperiod in Yangzhou female geese. Geese in the breeding industry were exposed to a natural photoperiod and the results showed the breeding season of Yangzhou geese initiated in autumn, reached peak in February and March, and terminated in June. Fifteen female geese were randomly selected for blood collection samples monthly. The results showed serum luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations in female geese were higher in the breeding season than in the non-breeding season. The concentrations of Prolactin (PRL) were also high in the breeding season. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations were high from March to May and decreased to low levels in other periods. Furthermore, 6 female birds were selected randomly monthly, sacrificed, and the hypothalamus and pituitary isolated. The expressions of FSH were also high in the breeding season, while the expressions of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) fluctuated. These results indicated that the reproductive hormones and their transcript expressions were closely related to the reproductive activities in Yangzhou geese.

Maternal dietary linoleic acid supplementation promotes muscle fibre type transformation in suckling piglets

As meat quality is basically dependent on muscle fibre characteristics, it is important to know how muscle fibres are regulated and transformed. This study aimed to investigate the effect of maternal dietary supplementation on muscle fibre types using 3% saturated fatty acid (palmitic acid, PA) or 3% unsaturated fatty acid (linoleic acid, LA) from 80 days of gestation to the weaning of offspring (25 days post-natal). The results indicated that higher mRNA levels of MyHCI type genes were found in the soleus muscles of piglets that suckled from LA-supplemented sows than from PA-supplemented sows. In addition, LA treatment increased the gene expression of the type I muscle fibre marker troponin I (p < 0.01), suggesting that LA promoted muscle fibre type transformation to type I fibres. Moreover, PGC-1α (p < 0.01) and MEF2c (p < 0.05) mRNA levels were higher in the piglets from the LA treatment group than in those from the PA treatment group. Furthermore, LA supplementation also significantly increased AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) mRNA levels (p < 0.05), which is an upstream regulator of PGC-1α. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that maternal dietary LA supplementation promoted muscle fibre transformation to type I fibre and that this process may be mediated through an AMPK-dependent pathway.

[Evaluation of therapeutic effect of virtual design for correcting facial asymmetry of skeletal Class Ⅲ deformity]

Objective: To establish a computer-aided surgical simulation procedure based on the natural head position(NHP) for orthognathic surgery and to access the effect for correcting facial asymmetry for skeletal Class Ⅲ deformity. Methods: Thirty-five patients(male: 14 and female: 21, mean age: [21.5±2.3] years) of skeletal Class Ⅲ deformity with facial asymmetry were included and divided into virtual group (16 patients) and control group(19 patients). The computer-aided surgical simulation procedure was used in the virtual group and the intermediate and final splints were fabricated using the rapid protyping technique. The traditional model surgery based on plaster casts was used in control group, and the splints were handmade. To evaluate the symmetry, three-dimensional(3D) photos were taken for all the patients before operation and 6 months after operation using the 3dMD face imaging system. Coordinate system was built based on mirror-original alignment method on the 3D photo. Thirteen soft tissue landmarks were marked on each 3D photo. The asymmetry index(AI) of those soft tissue landmarks was calculated. Results: There was no significant difference in the AI values between the two groups before surgery. Sixth month after operation, the mean AI values in the virtual group were (0.81±0.50) mm for subnasale, (1.01±0.80) mm for labiale superius, (1.94±1.30) mm for crista philtri, (1.60±1.20) mm for pogonion and (5.68±2.25) mm for gonion. The mean AI values in the control group were (1.49±1.10) mm for subnasale, (1.79±1.33) mm for labiale superius, (3.52±2.50) mm for crista philtri, (2.79±2.08) mm for pogonion and (8.43±3.94) mm for gonion and those indexes were significantly different between the two groups(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the AI values of the pronasale, alare, labiale inferius and cheilion between the two groups sixth month after operation. Conclusions: The introduced procedure of the virtual design based on the estimated NHP could more effectively correct the asymmetry deformity for the skeletal Class Ⅲ patients.

[Effects of prenatal maternal seizure on hippocampal damage and cognitive deficits in offspring rats]

Objective: To observe hippocampal damage and cognitive impairment of offspring exposed to prenatal maternal seizure induced by amygdala kindling, and to explore the underlying mechanism by the detection of pathological changes of placenta. Method: Adult female SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group(8 rats), kindling group(12 rats) and sham group(8 rats). All the rats were allowed to mate after one week's fully kindling. The pregnant rats in kindling group received electric stimulation every 48 h. Dams were allowed to deliver naturally. Effects of maternal seizure on the number of offspring, the survival rate and body weight of pups were observed. HE staining was used to visualize histopathological changes of placenta. Morris water maze test was used to assess the cognitive function and Nissal's staining to detect hippocampal morphology of the offspring. One-way ANOVA analysis and χ² test were used. Result: Compared with the sham group (95%(78/82)) and the control group (95%(82/86)), the survival rate of pups in kindling group(81%(66/82))was much lower (χ²=13.817, P=0.001). There were no significant differences in the number of pups per litter and pups birth-weight between kindling group and sham group or control group(F=0.312 and 0.257, P=0.736 and 0.776). HE staining showed that placental tissues from control and sham groups were normal whereas the histologic abnormalities of placentas from kindling group were characterized by thickening of the villus vascular walls, luminal stenosis, trophoblasts hyperplasia, abnormalities of trophoblasts with nuclear pyknosis and karyorrhexis and accumulation of inflammatory lymphocytes in labyrinthine zone. Nissl staining showed that neurons in hippocampus of P₀(0 d after birth) and P₈₄(84 d after birth) offspring from control and sham groups were normal, but neuronal damages were obvious in hippocampus of P₀ and P₈₄ offspring from kindling groups, and the damages in P₀ pups were severe with a marked loss of neuron, shrinkage of cells and nuclear pyknosis and karyorrhexis. In the Morris water maze, compared with the sham group ((29±8), (19±9), (10±4)s) and the control group ((25±6), (17±5), (14±4)s) rats in the kindling group ((36±8), (29±8), (30±11)s) exhibited significantly longer escape latency from the 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th days (F=6.276, 7.518, 18.422, P=0.030, 0.003, 0.000), significant less time in the target quadrant ((27±8) vs.(58±11)and(68±13)s, F=35.993, P=0.000) and reduced number of crossing the platform ((4.4±1.7) vs. (7.2±1.6) and (8.5±1.3)times, F=18.377, P=0.000). In addition, there was no significant difference between control and sham groups(P all >0.05). Conclusion: The prenatal maternal seizures induced significant pathological damages to hippocampus and cognitive impairment of offspring. Hypoxia-ischemia of placenta might play an important role in this process.

Mapping QTLs for drought tolerance in an F2:3 population from an inter-specific cross between Gossypium tomentosum and Gossypium hirsutum

Cotton is one of the most important natural fiber crops in the world. Its growth and yield is greatly limited by drought. A quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis was therefore conducted to investigate the genetic basis of drought tolerance in cotton (Gossypium spp) using 188 F2:3 lines developed from an inter-specific cross between a wild cotton species, G. tomentosum, and an upland cotton, G. hirsutum (CRI-12). A genetic map was constructed using 1295 simple sequence repeat markers, which amplified 1342 loci, distributed on 26 chromosomes, covering 3328.24 cM. A field experiment was conducted in two consecutive years (2014 and 2015) and 11 morphological and physiological traits were recorded under water-limited (W1)/well-watered (W2) regimes at three growth stages (bud, flowering, and full boll). The traits measured included chlorophyll content, plant height, leaf area, leaf number, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, boll weight, number of bolls per plant, and the number of fruiting branches. Sixty-seven and 35 QTLs were found under the W1 and W2 conditions, respectively. Of these, the majority exhibited partial dominance or over-dominance genetic effects for increasing the trait values. Four consistent QTLs were found under the W1 treatment on chromosomes 5, 8, 9, and 16, whereas no consistent QTL was found in W2. Thirteen QTL clusters were also identified on nine chromosomes (2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 14, 15, 16, and 21). These results will help to elucidate the genetic basis of drought tolerance in cotton.

[Imaging analysis of temporomandibular joint anatomy changes after intraoral condylectomy combined with orthognathic surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To quantitatively analyze the changes of facial symmetry and temporomandibular joint structure at different periods after intraoral condylectomy combined with orthognathic surgery, and to evaluate the long-term stability after the operation.

METHODS

Spiral CT data of 10 cases treated by intraoral condylectomy combined with orthognathic surgery were collected, and then reconstructed by ProPlan software. Mark points were drawn on the 3D-images reconstructed immediately after the operation, and 6 months and 12 months after the operation. The measurements parameters included condylar axis angle in three dimensions, condylar-glenoid relative position and condylar facial morphology related indicators. The results were statistically analyzed by the consistency test and the variance of repeated measurement data.

RESULTS

The facial asymmetry of the patients was corrected after operation, the height of the affected mandibular ascending ramus(T1: [67.81±6.95]mm, T2: [64.49±6.24]mm, T3: [63.05±7.07]mm)as well as the degree of pogonion deviation decreased(T1: [2.79±4.93]mm, T2: [0.37±4.20]mm, T3: [0.33 ± 3.97]mm)(P<0.05). But the tilt angle of the occlusion plane and the degree of mandibular height asymmetry had no significant difference between all the post-operative periods(P>0.05). The post-operative 3D changes of the position and shape of the resected and its contralateral condylar showed that the bilateral condylar axis angle in the horizontal plane gradually grew after operation(affected condyle: 71.95° ± 7.47°, 74.73°±8.44°, 76.56°±5.22°; control condyle: 72.60°±5.56°, 76.00°±5.30°, 77.19°±6.20° and had significant difference between all the post-operative periods)(P<0.05), the condyle moved slowly upward on both sides(superior space on the affected side: [8.78±4.38]mm, [4.11±2.49]mm, [3.27±1.96]mm; on the control side: [3.63±1.49]mm, [2.52±1.19]mm, [2.38±1.11]mm)(P<0.05), and moved inward only on the affected side(P< 0.05). All the above changes slowed down over time, and the disc-condyle-fossa relative position tended to be stable over time as well. The condyle diameter on the inside-outside direction gradually decreased on the affected side(T1: [14.98±2.39]mm, T2: [14.04±2.68]mm, T3: [13.74±2.89]mm)(P<0.05), and the surface morphology of the resected condyle was similar to the normal side. There were also some condylar surface morphological changes on the control side, but no statistical significance was found between different periods after the peration(P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The intraoral condylectomy combined with orthognathic surgery can eliminate condylar lesions effectively and correct the facial asymmetry caused by condylar benign tumor and hyperplasia. The facial symmetry can be maintained well after the operation, and the post-operative condylar morphology changes tended to be stable six months after the operation.

Association of XRCC1 gene polymorphisms and pancreatic cancer risk in a Chinese population

We conducted a case-control study to assess the role of the XRCC1 Arg399Gln, Arg280His, and Arg194Trp gene polymorphisms in pancreatic cancer susceptibility in a Chinese population. A total of 152 patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and 264 control subjects were enrolled in this study between March 2012 and October 2014. XRCC1 Arg399Gln, Arg280His, and Arg194Trp were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. As determined by the chi-squared test, a statistically significant difference was observed between pancreatic cancer patients and control subjects in regard to the genetic distribution of XRCC1 Arg399Gln (χ(2) = 16.13, P < 0.001). Using an unconditional regression analysis, we found that the TT genotype of Arg399Gln was associated with a significantly increased risk of pancreatic cancer (OR = 2.33, 95%CI = 1.20-4.51), and that the CT+TT genotype also significantly increased pancreatic cancer risk (OR = 1.58, 95%CI = 1.04-2.41), compared to the wild-type genotype. In conclusion, we found that XRCC1 Arg399Gln genetic variations are associated with pancreatic cancer development, whereas the XRCC1 Arg280His and Arg194Trp polymorphisms did not affect pancreatic cancer risk.

miR-218 tissue expression level is associated with aggressive progression of gastric cancer

The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical significance of microRNA-218 (miR-218) in gastric cancer. We enrolled 112 patients having undergone surgery for gastric cancer between May 2008 and June 2014. Expression of miR-218 was determined by real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by the log-rank test. We found that miR-218 expression was significantly downregulated in gastric cancer tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.001). Low miR-218 expression was significantly associated with tumor differentiation (P < 0.001), depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.006), and tumor node metastasis stage (P < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with low miR-218 levels showed significantly lower 5-year overall survival than those demonstrating high expression (P = 0.04). Multivariate Cox regression analyses indicated that low miR-218 expression constitutes an independent molecular biomarker for prediction of poor overall survival of gastric cancer patients (hazard ratio = 3.187, 95% confidence interval = 1.551-8.365, P = 0.037). In conclusion, miR-218 was remarkably downregulated in gastric cancer tissues and may serve as a prognostic biomarker for patients suffering from this disease.

[Effectiveness and safety of conversion therapy with the combination of sirolimus with low dose cyclosporine in renal transplantation recipients: a five-year clinical observation]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness and safety of the conversion therapy from traditional cyclosporine (CsA) triple immunosuppression therapy to sirolimus (SRL) combined with low dose CsA and prednisone (Pred) in renal transplantation recipients in a five-year follow-up period.

METHODS

A prospective, open-label non-randomized study was performed with 46 renal allograft recipients who visited Tongji Hospital regularly for follow-up visits between January 2007 and May 2011 and were taking CsA+ mycophenolate mofetil (MMF)+ Pred. Conversion therapy to SRL+ low dose CsA+ Pred was initiated after renal transplantation. The recipients were allocated to 2 groups according to their renal function and proteinuria before the conversion: active conversion group [n=27, serum creatinine (SCr) ≤ 140 μmol/L with no or minimal proteinuria] and passive conversion group [n=19, SCr>140 μmol/L with less than moderate proteinuria]. After conversion, dosages of SRL and CsA were adjusted for trough levels of 5-7 μg/L and 20-60 μg/L, respectively. SCr and urine protein were compared before and after the conversion in five-year follow-up. Incidence of acute rejection, renal graft survival and SRL-related adverse effects of the immunosuppressive regimen were also observed.

RESULTS

After conversion, an average 63% dose reduction of CsA was achieved in all the patients. In the active conversion group, the mean SCr level was (110±19) μmol/L at the time of conversion. Eight patients in this group withdrew from the study during the follow-up period for the following reasons: arthralgia (1 case), deteriorated proteinuria (2 cases), chronic diarrhea (2 cases), mild or suspicious acute rejection (2 cases), and recurrent fever (1 case). The rest patients (19/27) with a mean follow-up time of 5 years had a stable SCr level [(103±12) μmol/L] and a 100% 5-year graft survival. In the passive conversion group, the mean SCr level was (205±45) μmol/L at the time of conversion. There were 4 patients quitting the study, 2 for deteriorated proteinuria and 2 for lost to follow-up. Chronic allograft failure developed in 10 patients in this group 1-50 months after conversion, while the remaining 5 patients had a stable SCr during the 5-year follow-up period [(218 ±46) μmol/L before conversion vs (205±73) μmol/L 5 years after conversion]. The overall 5-year graft survival after the conversion therapy in the passive conversion group was 33.3%, significantly lower than that of the active conversion group (P<0.001). Acute rejection was observed in 2 cases in the active conversion group, while not observed in the passive conversion group. None of the patients developed leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, oral ulcer, or pneumonia in the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination therapy of SRL and low dose of CsA is overall a safe and effective maintenance immunosuppressive regimen, but it is important to initiate at an appropriate stage. More favourable long-term benefits may be obtained from the conversion therapy in patients with normal or only slightly impaired renal graft function. It may offer an option of individualized immunosuppressive therapy after renal transplantation.

Increased expression of CXCR3 and its ligands in patients with vitiligo and CXCL10 as a potential clinical marker for vitiligo

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by loss of melanocytes from the epidermis. A recent study reported that CXCL10 is critical for the progression and maintenance of depigmentation in a mouse model of vitiligo, but there is very limited clinical data regarding this issue and little is known about the dynamic changes or correlations with disease severity of these chemokines throughout the disease course.

OBJECTIVES

To present clinical data that supports and identifies the pathway of CXCR3 and its ligands in T-lymphocytic cell recruitment in vitiligo.

METHODS

Cytometric bead array, flow cytometry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistology were used to examine their systemic and local expression in 80 patients with vitiligo and 40 controls.

RESULTS

We showed that serum CXCL9 and CXCL10 were significantly elevated in patients with vitiligo and were higher in patients in progressive stages than in stable stages. The relative expression of CXCR3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was higher in vitiligo. There were higher percentages of both circulating CXCR3(+) CD4(+) and CXCR3(+) CD8(+) T cells in patients with progressive vitiligo compared with controls, while only the expression of CXCR3(+) CD8(+) T cells increased in patients with stable vitiligo. Histological findings also demonstrated an abundance of CXCR3(+) cells within vitiligo lesions. Furthermore, serum CXCL10 levels were associated with Vitiligo Area Scoring Index scores of patients with progressive vitiligo and were reduced after successful treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The CXCL10/CXCR3 axis mediates T-cell recruitment into the skin in progressive vitiligo. Blocking this chemotactic mechanism may present a new form of therapy. Serum CXCL10 may be a novel biomarker in monitoring disease activity and guiding treatment of progressive vitiligo.

[Manganese enhanced magnetic resonance imaging investigation in the central auditory pathway of the cat]

OBJECTIVE

To compare enhancement of the central auditory pathway in cats receiving auditory stimulation between manganese enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) with intraperitoneal manganese injection route and MEMRI with intratympanic manganese injection route, and investigate the optimal method for displaying enhancement of the central auditory pathway.

METHODS

Twenty-seven normal hearing adult cats were randomly divided into three groups, receiving intraperitoneal manganese injection, left intratympanic manganese injection or left intratympanic gadolinium injection respectively.All cats received white noise stimulation of 80 dB in twenty-four hours after injection.Three dimensionally coronal T1-weighted imaging of the cat brain was obtained with an animal dedicated MRI scanner.The signal noise ratios (SNRs) of bilateral cochlear nuclei (CN), dorsal nuclei of the trapezoid bodies (DNTB), caudal colliculi (CC) and auditory cortices (AC) were measured on reconstructed images and compared.

RESULTS

Obvious increased SNRs on both sides were shown in intraperitoneal mangasese injection group while left predilection was shown in intratympanic manganese injection group: left CN 45.7±6.0, 37.4±11.9, 23.9±2.7, F=17.694, P=0.000; left DNTB 50.5±11.2, 37.1±11.2, 27.6±7.3, F=11.781, P=0.000; left CC 37.6±3.9, 22.6±3.1, 17.9±0.7, F=111.898, P=0.000; left AC 27.7±2.5, 17.3±2.3, 14.5±1.0, F=105.132, P=0.000; right CN 42.7±8.3, 23.9±3.0, 22.7±2.1, F=41.492, P=0.000; right DNTB 44.1±8.3, 21.9±3.0, 23.9±4.0, F=27.862, P=0.000; right CC 38.0±4.0, 21.9±3.0, 17.6±0.9, F=120.032, P=0.000; right AC 26.7±3.4, 17.1±2.9, 14.9±1.3, F=64.587, P=0.000.Compared with the left intratympanic gadolinium injection group, the intraperitoneal manganese injection group showed higher SNRs in bilateral CN and CC (P<0.05), and the left intratympanic manganese injection group showed higher SNRs in left CN, AC and bilateral CC.The SNRs of right CN, bilateral DNTB, CC and AC were significantly higher in the intraperitoneal manganese injection group than those in the left intratympanic manganese injection group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

MEMRI with intraperitoneal manganese injection might be the optimal method for displaying enhancement of the central auditory pathway in cats receiving auditory stimulation.

High dietary biotin levels affect the footpad and hock health of broiler chickens reared at different stocking densities and litter conditions

Responses to stocking density (SD), dietary biotin concentration and litter condition were evaluated on 2016 Ross 308 male broilers in the fattening period (day 22-day 42). The birds were placed in 48 pens with either dry or wet litter to simulate the final stocking density of 30 kg (12 broilers/m² ; normal stocking density, NSD) and 40 kg (16 broilers/m² ; high stocking density, HSD) of body weight (BW)/m² floor space. A corn-soybean meal-based diet was supplemented with biotin to provide a normal (NB; 155 μg/kg) or high (HB, 1521 μg/kg) level of dietary biotin. There were six repetitions per treatment. The inappropriate moisture content of litter associated with HSD was avoided (p < 0.05) by good management (SD difference: dry litter, 6.65% vs. wet litter, 13.23%; 42 days), which made it advantageous (p < 0.01) for footpad (SD difference: dry litter, 0.118 vs. wet litter, 0.312; weekly average value) and hock health (SD difference: dry litter, 0.090 vs. wet litter, 0.303; weekly average value) of HSD birds, but not (p > 0.05) for growth and processing yield. In HSD, the biotin effect (gains, FCR) was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than in NSD. The similar response of HSD birds to supplemental biotin was observed (p < 0.05) for lesion scores of footpad and hock in particularly finishing chickens, and a significant interaction (p < 0.01) among stocking density, biotin supplementation and litter condition existed from 35 to 42 days of age. Taken together, increasing dietary biotin improves the performance and well-being of broiler chickens stocked at high densities in litter-independent and litter-dependent manners respectively.

Effects of Graded Levels of Isomaltooligosaccharides on the Performance, Immune Function and Intestinal Status of Weaned Pigs

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of graded levels of isomaltooligosaccharides (IMO) on the performance, immune function and intestinal microflora and intestinal mucosal morphology of weaned pigs. In a 28-day experiment, one hundred eighty, twenty eight-day-old, crossbred (Duroc×Large White×Landrace), weaned pigs, with an initial body weight of 8.19±1.45 kg, were fed either an unsupplemented corn-soybean meal based diet or similar diets supplemented with 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, or 0.8% IMO added at the expense of corn. Each treatment was replicated six times with six pigs (three barrows and three gilts) per pen. From day 0 to 14, weight gain was linearly increased (p<0.05), while gain:feed (p<0.05) was linearly improved and diarrhea rate (p = 0.05) linearly declined as the IMO level increased. On d 14, the level of the immunoglobulins IgA, IgM, and IgG in the serum of pigs were linearly increased (p<0.05) with increasing IMO supplementation. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was linearly (p<0.05) and quadratically (p<0.05) decreased as IMO intake increased. From day 15 to 28, there was a trend for weight gain to be linearly increased, and IL-2 was linearly (p<0.05) increased as IMO supplementation increased on d 28. Over the entire experiment, weight gain was linearly increased (p<0.05), while gain:feed (p<0.05) was linearly improved and diarrhea rate (p<0.05) was linearly decreased as the IMO level increased. Supplementation with IMO had no effect on the intestinal microflora of pigs in the ileum and cecum of pigs, as well as the villus height and crypt depth in the ileum and jejunum (p>0.05). These results indicate that dietary inclusion of IMO increases weight gain, gain:feed and enhanced the immune status of pigs, and could be a valuable feed additive for use in weaned pigs, particularly during the period immediately after weaning.

[Oncological intensive care: 2013 and 2014 years'review]

The objective of this paper is to review the literature published in 2013 and 2014 in the field of intensive care and emergency related to oncology. Are discussed because of new original publications: prognosis, life-supporting techniques, septic shock and infectious complications, anticancer treatment in intensive care, tumoral lysis syndrome, respiratory, thromboembolic and vascular, digestive and hepatic, and neurologic complications, oncologic emergencies, therapeutic limitations.

Construction and characterization of a bacterial artificial chromosome library for the allotetraploid Gossypium tomentosum

Gossypium tomentosum is a wild allotetraploid species with the (AD)5 genome. It is characterized by many useful traits including finer fiber fineness, drought tolerance, and Fusarium and Verticillium resistance. We constructed the first bacterial artificial chromosome library for Gossypium tomentosum. With high quality and broad coverage, this library includes 200,832 clones, with an average insert size of about 122 kb and fewer than 3% empty clones. Our library is approximately 10-fold the size of the (AD)5-genome (2400 Mb) and provides a 99.7% probability of isolating genes of interest or their sequences. Seven of eight simple sequence repeats markers that are located on five different chromosomes and linked with resistance to Verticillium wilt could amplify the 50 superpools and obtained one to five hits. This high capacity library will be an important genomic resource for classifying and analyzing the evolution of allotetraploid cotton species as well as for isolating disease-resistance and drought-tolerance genes.

Genetic diversity and relationship analysis of Gossypium arboreum accessions

Simple sequence repeat techniques were used to identify the genetic diversity of 101 Gossypium arboreum accessions collected from India, Vietnam, and the southwest of China (Guizhou, Guangxi, and Yunnan provinces). Twenty-six pairs of SSR primers produced a total of 103 polymorphic loci with an average of 3.96 polymorphic loci per primer. The average of the effective number of alleles, Nei's gene diversity, and Shannon's information index were 0.59, 0.2835, and 0.4361, respectively. The diversity varied among different geographic regions. The result of principal component analysis was consistent with that of unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean clustering analysis. The 101 G. arboreum accessions were clustered into 2 groups.

Characterization and development of chloroplast microsatellite markers for Gossypium hirsutum, and cross-species amplification in other Gossypium species

Cotton is an important economic crop worldwide; its fiber, commonly known as cotton lint, is the main natural source for the textile industry. Sixty chloroplast microsatellites were identified and characterized from the complete sequence of the Gossypium hirsutum chloroplast genome using a bioinformatic approach. Twenty chloroplast microsatellite loci were polymorphic in the 66 Gossypium germplasm accessions. A total of 85 alleles were detected, with allele numbers varying from 2-7 per locus. Polymorphism information content varied from 0.02-0.66, with a mean of 0.48. Additionally, transferability of the 20 polymorphic chloroplast microsatellite primers was evaluated in other 31 Gossypium species. Sixteen markers were successfully amplified across all species tested, while the remaining 4 markers cross-amplified in most species tested. These polymorphic chloroplast microsatellite markers may be useful tool for studies of individual identification, genetic diversity, evolution, conservation genetics, and molecular breeding in Gossypium.