Measurement of the Dynamics of the Decays D_{s}^{+}→η^{(')}e^{+}ν_{e}

Using e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.19  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of 4.178 GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fractions B_{D_{s}^{+}→ηe^{+}ν_{e}}=(2.323±0.063_{stat}±0.063_{syst})% and B_{D_{s}^{+}→η^{'}e^{+}ν_{e}}=(0.824±0.073_{stat}±0.027_{syst})% via a tagged analysis technique, where one D_{s} is fully reconstructed in a hadronic mode. Combining these measurements with previous BESIII measurements of B_{D^{+}→η^{(')}e^{+}ν_{e}}, the η-η^{'} mixing angle in the quark flavor basis is determined to be ϕ_{P}=(40.1±2.1_{stat}±0.7_{syst})°. From the first measurements of the dynamics of D_{s}^{+}→η^{(')}e^{+}ν_{e} decays, the products of the hadronic form factors f_{+}^{η^{(')}}(0) and the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element |V_{cs}| are determined with different form factor parametrizations. For the two-parameter series expansion, the results are f_{+}^{η}(0)|V_{cs}|=0.4455±0.0053_{stat}±0.0044_{syst} and f_{+}^{η^{'}}(0)|V_{cs}|=0.477±0.049_{stat}±0.011_{syst}.

Evidence of a Resonant Structure in the e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}D^{0}D^{*-} Cross Section between 4.05 and 4.60 GeV

The cross section of the process e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}D^{0}D^{*-} for center-of-mass energies from 4.05 to 4.60 GeV is measured precisely using data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring. Two enhancements are clearly visible in the cross section around 4.23 and 4.40 GeV. Using several models to describe the dressed cross section yields stable parameters for the first enhancement, which has a mass of 4228.6±4.1±6.3  MeV/c^{2} and a width of 77.0±6.8±6.3  MeV, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second ones are systematic. Our resonant mass is consistent with previous observations of the Y(4220) state and the theoretical prediction of a DD[over ¯]_{1}(2420) molecule. This result is the first observation of Y(4220) associated with an open-charm final state. Fits with three resonance functions with additional Y(4260), Y(4320), Y(4360), ψ(4415), or a new resonance do not show significant contributions from either of these resonances. The second enhancement is not from a single known resonance. It could contain contributions from ψ(4415) and other resonances, and a detailed amplitude analysis is required to better understand this enhancement.

[Progress in research of relationship between ambient air PM(2.5) and lung diseases]

Fine Particulate Matter (PM(2.5)-particles with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm) can penetrate deeply into the lung, deposit in the alveoli, and consequently impair lung function. Both short term and long term exposures to PM(2.5) are associated with the incidence of respiratory diseases (e.g. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer). This paper summarizes the effects of ambient air PM(2.5) exposure on human respiratory system revealed by epidemiological studies.

Determination of the Pseudoscalar Decay Constant f_{D_{s}^{+}} via D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ}

Using a 3.19  fb^{-1} data sample collected at an e^{+}e^{-} center-of-mass energy of E_{cm}=4.178  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the branching fraction of the leptonic decay D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ} to be B_{D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ}}=(5.49±0.16_{stat}±0.15_{syst})×10^{-3}. Combining our branching fraction with the masses of the D_{s}^{+} and μ^{+} and the lifetime of the D_{s}^{+}, we determine f_{D_{s}^{+}}|V_{cs}|=246.2±3.6_{stat}±3.5_{syst}  MeV. Using the c→s quark mixing matrix element |V_{cs}| determined from a global standard model fit, we evaluate the D_{s}^{+} decay constant f_{D_{s}^{+}}=252.9±3.7_{stat}±3.6_{syst}  MeV. Alternatively, using the value of f_{D_{s}^{+}} calculated by lattice quantum chromodynamics, we find |V_{cs}|=0.985±0.014_{stat}±0.014_{syst}. These values of B_{D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ}}, f_{D_{s}^{+}}|V_{cs}|, f_{D_{s}^{+}} and |V_{cs}| are each the most precise results to date.

[Prognostic significance of CLL-IPI for Chinese patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia]

目的

明确慢性淋巴细胞白血病国际预后指数（CLL-IPI）评分系统在中国慢性淋巴细胞白血病（CLL）患者中的预后评估价值。

方法

回顾性分析2002年1月至2017年11月诊断的215例初治CLL患者的临床资料，采用CLL-IPI评分系统进行危险分层和预后评估。

结果

①215例患者中，男143例，女72例，中位年龄60（16~85）岁。中位无治疗生存（TFS）和中位总生存（OS）时间分别为16（4~24）个月和180（145~215）个月。②按照CLL-IPI评分系统进行危险分层，低危组（60例）、中危组（50例）、高危组（45例）及极高危组（60例）的中位TFS时间分别为56、15、12及5个月，差异有统计学意义（P<0.001）。③中位随访48（1~192）个月，低危组、中危组、高危组及极高危组的中位OS时间分别为未达到和180、89、74个月，预计5年OS率分别为97.6%、83.7%、67.8%及55.2%，差异有统计学意义（P<0.001）。④多因素分析结果显示，免疫球蛋白重链可变区（IGHV）基因无突变（P=0.038）、β₂微球蛋白>3.5 mg/L（P<0.001）是影响患者TFS的独立危险因素；而TP53缺失和（或）突变（P=0.008）、IGHV基因无突变（P=0.017）、年龄>65岁（P=0.045）是影响患者OS的独立危险因素。

结论

CLL-IPI评分系统在中国初治CLL患者中具有较好的预后判断意义，可作为CLL有效的预后分层工具。

[Prognostic value of lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio in angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma]

目的

探究淋巴细胞/单核细胞比值（LMR）在血管免疫母细胞性T细胞淋巴瘤（AITL）患者中的预后价值。

方法

回顾性分析2009年6月至2017年7月南京医科大学第一附属医院收治的64例初诊AITL患者资料。采用ROC曲线计算LMR临界值，并以此将患者分为高LMR和低LMR组，采用Pearson卡方检验及Fisher精确概率法进行组间比较。采用Kaplan-Meier法和Cox回归分析影响无进展生存（PFS）和总生存（OS）的预后因素。

结果

64例患者中，男39例，女25例，中位年龄63（29~89）岁。LMR临界值为3.07。中位随访33（5~103）个月，低LMR与高LMR组比较，患者的PFS时间（9对13个月，P=0.044）和OS时间（16个月对未达到，P=0.014）差异均有统计学意义。多因素分析显示低LMR是影响患者PFS（HR=0.48, 95% CI 0.26~0.92，P=0.027）和OS（HR=0.38，95% CI 0.18~0.82，P=0.013）的独立预后不良因素。亚组分析结果显示，在中高危至高危[非特指型预后指数（PIT）评分2~4分]患者中，低LMR者有更短的PFS和OS时间（P值分别为0.013、0.031），而在低危至中低危（PIT评分0~1分）患者中其差异均无统计学意义（P值分别为0.949、0.238）。

结论

可根据PIT评分及LMR的状态初步评估患者的疾病风险。低LMR提示患者具有更差的预后。

First Measurement of the Form Factors in D_{s}^{+}→K^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} and D_{s}^{+}→K^{*0}e^{+}ν_{e} Decays

We report on new measurements of Cabibbo-suppressed semileptonic D_{s}^{+} decays using 3.19  fb^{-1} of e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data sample collected at a center-of-mass energy of 4.178 GeV with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII collider. Our results include branching fractions B(D_{s}^{+}→K^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})=[3.25±0.38(stat)±0.16(syst)]×10^{-3} and B(D_{s}^{+}→K^{*0}e^{+}ν_{e})=[2.37±0.26(stat)±0.20(syst)]×10^{-3}, which are much improved relative to previous measurements, and the first measurements of the hadronic form-factor parameters for these decays. For D_{s}^{+}→K^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}, we obtain f_{+}(0)=0.720±0.084(stat)±0.013(syst), and for D_{s}^{+}→K^{*0}e^{+}ν_{e}, we find form-factor ratios r_{V}=V(0)/A_{1}(0)=1.67±0.34(stat)±0.16(syst) and r_{2}=A_{2}(0)/A_{1}(0)=0.77±0.28(stat)±0.07(syst).

Observation of D^{+}→f_{0}(500)e^{+}ν_{e} and Improved Measurements of D→ρe^{+}ν_{e}

Using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2.93  fb^{-1} recorded by the BESIII detector at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV, we present an analysis of the decays D^{0}→π^{-}π^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} and D^{+}→π^{-}π^{+}e^{+}ν_{e}. By performing a partial wave analysis, the π^{+}π^{-} S-wave contribution to D^{+}→π^{-}π^{+}e^{+}ν_{e} is observed to be (25.7±1.6±1.1)% with a statistical significance greater than 10σ, besides the dominant P-wave contribution. This is the first observation of the S-wave contribution. We measure the branching fractions B(D^{0}→ρ^{-}e^{+}ν_{e})=(1.445±0.058±0.039)×10^{-3}, B(D^{+}→ρ^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})=(1.860±0.070±0.061)×10^{-3}, and B(D^{+}→f_{0}(500)e^{+}ν_{e},f_{0}(500)→π^{+}π^{-})=(6.30±0.43±0.32)×10^{-4}. An upper limit of B(D^{+}→f_{0}(980)e^{+}ν_{e},f_{0}(980)→π^{+}π^{-})<2.8×10^{-5} is set at the 90% confidence level. We also obtain the hadronic form factor ratios of D→ρe^{+}ν_{e} at q^{2}=0 assuming the single-pole dominance parametrization: r_{V}={[V(0)]/[A_{1}(0)]}=1.695±0.083±0.051, r_{2}={[A_{2}(0)]/[A_{1}(0)]}=0.845±0.056±0.039.

[Characteristics of acute myocardial infarction caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection in young female patients]

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of acute myocardial infarction caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection(SCAD) in young female patients. Methods: In this casecontrolstudy,127 young(≤55 years) female patients with acute myocardial infarction onset within 1 week in Nanjing first hospital, Xuzhou central hospital, affiliated hospital of Xuzhou medical university, and Lianyungang first people's hospital were enrolled between January 2013 and February 2017,and the clinical data were retrospectively analyzed. According to their clinical manifestations and coronary angiography(CAG) results,the patients were divided into coronary atherosclerosis disease(CAD) group(CAG evidenced atherosclerosis, n=83) and SCAD group(CAG detected coronary artery dissection,n=44).The SCAD patients were subdivided into definite group (the results affirmed from intravenous ultrasound or optical coherence tomography, n=21) and probable group (the CAG results highly confirmed to characteristics of SCAD,but no intravenous ultrasound or optical coherence tomography image affirmation,n=23). Then, according to the different treatment strategies, the SCAD patients were subdivided into conservative treatment group(treated with drugs,n=19) and interventional therapy group(treated with percutaneous coronary intervention,n=25). Results: (1)Compared to CAD group, patients in the SCAD group had less risk factors, such as hypertension history (25.0% (11/44) vs. 45.8% (38/83) , P=0.022) and diabetes history (6.8% (3/44) vs. 21.7% (18/83) , P=0.043),and had lower levels of fasting blood glucose (5.34(4.59,5.87) mmol/L vs. 7.12(5.18,8.60)mmol/L, P=0.001),total cholesterol((3.94±1.14) mmol/L vs. (4.91±1.50) mmol/L, P=0.001),triglyceride(1.42 (0.91,1.64) mmol/L vs. 1.89 (1.23,2.45) mmol/L, P=0.005),and low density lipoprotein cholesterol ((2.24±0.91) mmol/L vs. (2.94±1.16) mmol/L, P=0.001),CAG results showed that patients in the SCAD group had more single vessel lesion (88.6% (39/44) vs. 39.8% (33/83) , P=0.001), and their target lesion stenosis was less severe ( (79.2±22.4) % vs. (91.5±12.1) %, P=0.001). (2) The clinical risk factors such as hypertension history, diabetes history, smoking history, family history of cardiology disease, fasting blood glucose,total cholesterol,triglyceride and low density lipoprotein cholesterol were similar between definite group and probable group (all P>0.05). CAG results showed that prevalence of single vessel lesion (100% (21/21) vs. 78.3% (18/23) , P=0.050) and percent of target lesion stenosis ( (76.9±20.6) % vs. (81.2±24.1) %, P=0.529) were similar between definite group and probable group.(3)There were no significant difference in single vessel(84.0% (21/25) vs. 94.7% (18/19) , P=0.370), target lesion stenosis(85.0(70.0,100.0)% vs. 75.0(50.0,90.0)%, P=0.186),and survival rates in hospital(96.0% (24/25) vs. 100% (19/19) , P=1.000) between interventional therapy group and conservative treatment group. Conclusions: Prevalence of SCAD is highin young female patients with acute myocardial infarction. Acute myocardial infarction patients with less risk factors of CAD and with CAG showing smooth lesion of narrowing segment and normal finding in the other vessels, are more likely to be diagnosed with SCAD.Acute myocardial infarction patients caused by SCAD have high survival rate either receiving percutaneous coronary intervention or drug treatment.

[Genes polymorphism of BIN1 and ApoE in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment from Enshi Tujia area]

Objective: To investigate the polymorphism of BIN1 and ApoE genes in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) patients in Tujia minority area of Enshi, Hubei. Methods: A total of 107 patients with aMCI (aMCI group) and 150 healthy people (healthy control group) during the same period were included between December 2016 and October 2017 in Affiliated Minda Hospital of Hubei University for Nationalities, who were all the Tujia nationality. Three single nucleotide polymorphic site of BIN1 gene rs744373, rs7561528, rs6733839, and two single nucleotide polymorphic site of ApoE gene rs429358, rs7412, and Genotyping and sub-genotyping of ApoE genes were tested using ligase detection reaction technique(LDR), and gene polymorphisms of BIN1 and ApoE were analyzed with Logistic regression analysis. Results: The basic information was not statistically significan different between healthy control group and aMCI group (P>0.05); there were no statistically significant in genotype distribution among the 3 SNPs of BIN1 gene(rs744373, rs7561528, rs6733839) and between the 2 SNPs of ApoE gene(rs429358, rs7412) and its allelic profile (P>0.05), which conformed to Hardy-Weinberg balance; BIN1 gene rs744373 polymorphic site allele C was the risk factor of aMCI (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.09-4.98, P=0.029), especially BIN1 gene rs744373 polymorphic site recessive model CC/CT+ TT increased the risk of aMCI disease (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.15-4.59, P=0.019). The difference in genotype distribution of ApoE sub-genotype ε2/2, ε2/3, ε2/4, ε3/3, ε3/4, ε4/4 and allele ε2, ε3, ε4 genes between two groups were significantly different (P<0.05), Carrying ApoEε2 may be a protective factor for aMCI (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.22-0.96, P=0.039) and carrying ApoE ε4 may be a risk factor for aMCI (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.18-3.83, P=0.012). Conclusions: The incidence of aMCI in Tujia region of Enshi may be related to the rs744373 polymorphic site of BIN1 gene, ApoEε2 is the protective factor and ApoEε4 is the risk factor for aMCI in Tujia region of Enshi, but it still needs to be further verified by a large sample population.

Study of the D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} Dynamics and Test of Lepton Flavor Universality with D^{0}→K^{-}ℓ^{+}ν_{ℓ} Decays

Using e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data of 2.93  fb^{-1} collected at center-of-mass energy sqrt[s]=3.773  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} with significantly improved precision: B_{D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}=(3.413±0.019_{stat}±0.035_{syst})%. Combining with our previous measurement of B_{D^{0}→K^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}, the ratio of the two branching fractions is determined to be B_{D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{0}→K^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.974±0.007_{stat}±0.012_{syst}, which agrees with the theoretical expectation of lepton flavor universality within the uncertainty. A study of the ratio of the two branching fractions in different four-momentum transfer regions is also performed, and no evidence for lepton flavor universality violation is found with current statistics. Taking inputs from global fit in the standard model and lattice quantum chromodynamics separately, we determine f_{+}^{K}(0)=0.7327±0.0039_{stat}±0.0030_{syst} and |V_{cs}|=0.955±0.005_{stat}±0.004_{syst}±0.024_{LQCD}.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction of the Inclusive Semileptonic Λ_{c}^{+} Decay

Using a data sample of e^{+}e^{-} collisions corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 567  pb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.6  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of the inclusive semileptonic Λ_{c}^{+} decay with a double-tag method. We obtain B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Xe^{+}ν_{e})=(3.95±0.34±0.09)%, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. Using the known Λ_{c}^{+} lifetime and the charge-averaged semileptonic decay width of nonstrange charmed mesons (D^{0} and D^{+}), we obtain the ratio of the inclusive semileptonic decay widths Γ(Λ_{c}^{+}→Xe^{+}ν_{e})/Γ[over ¯](D→Xe^{+}ν_{e})=1.26±0.12.

Measurement of the Branching Fraction For the Semileptonic Decay D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and Test of Lepton Flavor Universality

Using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2.93  fb^{-1} taken at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV with the BESIII detector operated at the BEPCII collider, we perform an analysis of the semileptonic decays D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}μ^{+}ν_{μ}. The branching fractions of D^{0}→π^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and D^{+}→π^{0}μ^{+}ν_{μ} are measured to be (0.272±0.008_{stat}±0.006_{syst})% and (0.350±0.011_{stat}±0.010_{syst})%, respectively, where the former is of much improved precision compared to previous results and the latter is determined for the first time. Using these results along with previous BESIII measurements of D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}e^{+}ν_{e}, we calculate the branching fraction ratios to be R^{0}≡B_{D^{0}→π^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{0}→π^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.922±0.030_{stat}±0.022_{syst} and R^{+}≡B_{D^{+}→π^{0}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{+}→π^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.964±0.037_{stat}±0.026_{syst}, which are compatible with the theoretical expectation of lepton flavor universality within 1.7σ and 0.5σ, respectively. We also examine the branching fraction ratios in different four-momentum transfer square regions, and find no significant deviations from the standard model predictions.

Acute Cellular Rejection and Infection Rates in Alemtuzumab vs Traditional Induction Therapy Agents for Lung and Heart Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Heart and lung transplantation is a high-risk procedure requiring intensive immunosuppressive therapy for preventing organ rejection. Alemtuzumab, a CD52-specific monoclonal antibody, is increasingly used for induction therapy compared with conventional agents. However, there has been no systematic review comparing its efficacy with traditional therapeutic drugs.

METHODS

PubMed and EMBASE were searched to October 1, 2017, for articles on alemtuzumab in cardiothoracic transplant surgery. Of the 433 studies retrieved, 8 were included in the final meta-analysis.

RESULTS

In lung transplantation, alemtuzumab use was associated with lower odds of acute cellular rejection compared with antithymocyte globulin (odds ratio [OR], 0.21; 95% CI, 0.11-0.40; P < .001), lower acute rejection rates (OR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.03-0.55; P < .01), and infection rates (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.35-1.36; P = .33) when compared with basiliximab. Multivariate meta-regression analysis found that mean age, male sex, single lung transplant, double lung transplant, cytomegalovirus or Epstein-Barr virus status, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, and mean ischemic time did not significantly influence acute rejection outcomes. For heart transplantation, alemtuzumab use was associated with lower acute rejection rates when compared with tacrolimus (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.30-0.66; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Alemtuzumab use was associated with lower rejection rates when compared with conventional induction therapy agents (antithymocyte globulin, basiliximab, and tacrolimus) in heart and lung transplantation. However, this was based on observational studies. Randomized controlled trials are needed to verify its clinical use.

Observation of the Semileptonic Decay D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e} and Evidence for D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}

Using an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample of 2.93  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV by the BESIII detector at BEPCII, we report the observation of D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e} and evidence for D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} with significances of 6.4σ and 2.9σ, respectively. The absolute branching fractions are determined to be B(D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e})×B(a_{0}(980)^{-}→ηπ^{-})=[1.33_{-0.29}^{+0.33}(stat)±0.09(syst)]×10^{-4} and B(D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})×B(a_{0}(980)^{0}→ηπ^{0})=[1.66_{-0.66}^{+0.81}(stat)±0.11(syst)]×10^{-4}. This is the first time the a_{0}(980) meson has been measured in a D^{0} semileptonic decay, which would open one more interesting page in the investigation of the nature of the puzzling a_{0}(980) states.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction of the Inclusive Decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X

Based on an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 567  pb^{-1} taken at the center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.6  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of the inclusive decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X to be B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)=(38.2_{-2.2}^{+2.8}±0.9)% using the double-tag method, where X refers to any possible final state particles. In addition, we search for direct CP violation in the charge asymmetry of this inclusive decay for the first time, and obtain A_{CP}≡[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)-B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]/[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)+B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]=(2.1_{-6.6}^{+7.0}±1.6)%, a statistically limited result with no evidence of CP violation.

Comparison of Single Piece of Dandruff DNA Extraction under Microscope and EZ-tape Method

OBJECTIVES

To collect single piece of dandruff with microscopes to improve the regular EZ-tape method for DNA extraction and genotyping, increase the utilization of samples, reduce the miss rate as well as the proportion of genotyping results of mixed stains.

METHODS

The insides of the hats worn by two volunteers were stuck by EZ-tape and scotch tape respectively. DNA on EZ-tape was directly extracted using traditional method. Single piece of dandruff was collected from the scotch tapes under microscope. The two kinds of methods were both performed under continuous oscillation and standing digestion, respectively. DNA was extracted through Chelex-100 method, and STR genotypes were obtained after amplification and electrophoresis. The results of STR genotypes obtained by EZ-tape method and single piece of dandruff analytical method were compared.

RESULTS

Miss detections happened in 11 samples （45.8%） by EZ-tape method and only single-source typing results were obtained. Ten samples （41.7%） showed the genotype results of mixed stain and six of which showed allele insertions and deletions. The genotype results were obtained successfully using the single piece of dandruff analytical method, and two samples showed mixed stain genotype. The number of exact typing processed by oscillation was higher than that by standing digestion （ P<0.05）.

CONCLUSIONS

The oscillation during the DNA extraction process is in favour of the DNA releasing. Single piece of dandruff analytical method can be used to obtain single-source STR genotype with high successful ratio and low miss rate. This method can be a collection method of special samples such as dandruff in forensic practice.

Clofazimine improves clinical outcomes in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

We carried out a randomized multicentre study in China to investigate whether the clofazimine would improve the efficacy of the standardized regimen in patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).

METHODS

Patients with MDR-TB managed in 17 TB specialist hospitals in China between September 2009 and September 2011 were randomly assigned to the treatment groups at enrolment. In the intervention group, 100 mg clofazimine per day was added to the standardized regimen. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with successful outcomes.

RESULTS

From the 156 patients that were screened, 74 were assigned to the control group and 66 to the clofazimine group. Of the 66 cases analysed for clinical outcome in the clofazimine group, 36 patients were cured, and seven completed treatment, yielding a favourable outcome rate of 65.1%. The proportion of patients with favourable outcomes receiving the control regimen was 47.3% (35/74), which was significantly lower than that in the clofazimine group (p 0.034, relative risk 0.661, 95% CI 0.243-0.949).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of clofazimine to the standard regimen improved the treatment of MDR-TB.

Observation of a_{0}^{0}(980)-f_{0}(980) Mixing

We report the first observation of a_{0}^{0}(980)-f_{0}(980) mixing in the decays of J/ψ→ϕf_{0}(980)→ϕa_{0}^{0}(980)→ϕηπ^{0} and χ_{c1}→a_{0}^{0}(980)π^{0}→f_{0}(980)π^{0}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0}, using data samples of 1.31×10^{9}  J/ψ events and 4.48×10^{8}  ψ(3686) events accumulated with the BESIII detector. The signals of f_{0}(980)→a_{0}^{0}(980) and a_{0}^{0}(980)→f_{0}(980) mixing are observed at levels of statistical significance of 7.4σ and 5.5σ, respectively. The corresponding branching fractions and mixing intensities are measured and the constraint regions on the coupling constants, g_{a_{0}K^{+}K^{-}} and g_{f_{0}K^{+}K^{-}}, are estimated. The results improve the understanding of the nature of a_{0}^{0}(980) and f_{0}(980).

Precision Study of η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} Decay Dynamics

Using a low background data sample of 9.7×10^{5}  J/ψ→γη^{'}, η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} events, which are 2 orders of magnitude larger than those from the previous experiments, recorded with the BESIII detector at BEPCII, the decay dynamics of η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} are studied with both model-dependent and model-independent approaches. The contributions of ω and the ρ(770)-ω interference are observed for the first time in the decays η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} in both approaches. Additionally, a contribution from the box anomaly or the ρ(1450) resonance is required in the model-dependent approach, while the process specific part of the decay amplitude is determined in the model-independent approach.

Exploiting soil moisture, precipitation and streamflow observations to evaluate soil moisture/runoff coupling in land surface models

Accurate partitioning of precipitation into infiltration and runoff is a fundamental objective of land surface models tasked with characterizing the surface water and energy balance. Temporal variability in this partitioning is due, in part, to changes in pre-storm soil moisture, which determine soil infiltration capacity and unsaturated storage. Utilizing the NASA Soil Moisture Active Passive Level-4 soil moisture product in combination with streamflow and precipitation observations, we demonstrate that land surface models (LSMs) generally underestimate the strength of the positive rank correlation between pre-storm soil moisture and event runoff coefficients (i.e., the fraction of rainfall accumulation depth converted into stormflow runoff during a storm event). Underestimation is largest for LSMs employing an infiltration-excess approach for stormflow runoff generation. More accurate coupling strength is found in LSMs that explicitly represent sub-surface stormflow or saturation-excess runoff generation processes.

First detection of foot-and-mouth disease virus O/ME-SA/Ind2001 in China

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in China and is predominantly due to foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) serotype O Mya-98 lineage. In recent years, FMDV O/ME-SA/Ind2001 lineage has spread from the Indian subcontinent to South-East Asia, Middle East and Africa, which may pose potential threats for future trans-regional livestock movements. In this study, we identified the appearance of FMDV O/ME-SA/Ind2001 in China; the first time that this virus lineage has been found there. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of VP1 sequences revealed that this newly determined strain belongs to O/ME-SA/Ind2001 sublineage d and is closely related to strains that have caused recent outbreaks of FMD in Nepal, Myanmar, Russia and South Korea. The results suggest extensive movements of the current O/ME-SA/Ind2001 sublineage d viruses and provide essential information for an effective national FMDV control programme in China.

Epigenetics as a mechanism linking developmental exposures to long-term toxicity

A variety of experimental and epidemiological studies lend support to the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept. Yet, the actual mechanisms accounting for mid- and long-term effects of early-life exposures remain unclear. Epigenetic alterations such as changes in DNA methylation, histone modifications and the expression of certain RNAs have been suggested as possible mediators of long-term health effects of environmental stressors. This report captures discussions and conclusions debated during the last Prenatal Programming and Toxicity meeting held in Japan. Its first aim is to propose a number of criteria that are critical to support the primary contribution of epigenetics in DOHaD and intergenerational transmission of environmental stressors effects. The main criteria are the full characterization of the stressors, the actual window of exposure, the target tissue and function, the specificity of the epigenetic changes and the biological plausibility of the linkage between those changes and health outcomes. The second aim is to discuss long-term effects of a number of stressors such as smoking, air pollution and endocrine disruptors in order to identify the arguments supporting the involvement of an epigenetic mechanism. Based on the developed criteria, missing evidence and suggestions for future research will be identified. The third aim is to critically analyze the evidence supporting the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in intergenerational and transgenerational effects of environmental exposure and to particularly discuss the role of placenta and sperm. While the article is not a systematic review and is not meant to be exhaustive, it critically assesses the contribution of epigenetics in the long-term effects of environmental exposures as well as provides insight for future research.

A novel HLA-B allele, HLA-B*40:245 was identified in a patient with hepatitis B virus infection

A novel allele HLA-B*40:245 was discovered in a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected patient.

Removing a metal foreign object successfully from a patient's retroperitoneal space using laparoscopy and a novel navigation system

Trauma with foreign objects retained within the human body has become a common surgical emergency condition. Traditional surgical methods often involve creating large incisions in soft tissue and may lead to additional complications during wound healing. We have developed a new method of removing foreign bodies from patients' abdomens by using laparoscopy with the help of a novel navigation system that provides accurate positioning. This approach is minimally invasive and simple. This is the first combination of both technologies in this field.

Precision Measurement of the e^{+}e^{-}→Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} Cross Section Near Threshold

The cross section of the e^{+}e^{-}→Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} process is measured with unprecedented precision using data collected with the BESIII detector at sqrt[s]=4574.5, 4580.0, 4590.0 and 4599.5 MeV. The nonzero cross section near the Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} production threshold is cleared. At center-of-mass energies sqrt[s]=4574.5 and 4599.5 MeV, the higher statistics data enable us to measure the Λ_{c} polar angle distributions. From these, the Λ_{c} electric over magnetic form-factor ratios (|G_{E}/G_{M}|) are measured for the first time. They are found to be 1.14±0.14±0.07 and 1.23±0.05±0.03, respectively, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.

[X-linked immunodeficiency with magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and neoplasia: report of a family and literature review]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features and genetic characteristics of cases with X-linked immunodeficiency with magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, and neoplasia (XMEN). Methods: Characteristics of clinical material, immunological data and gene mutation of two cases with XMEN in the same family in China were retrospectively analyzed. The related reports literature were searched by using search terms'MAGT1 gene'or'XMEN'. Results: The proband, a 2-year-eight-month old boy, was admitted due to 'Urine with deepened color for two days and yellow stained skin for one day'. He had suffered from recurrent upper respiratory tract infection and sinusitis previously. Hemoglobin level was 38 g/L. The absolute count of reticulocytes was 223.2×10(9)/L. Urobilinogen level was 38 μmol/L (3-16 μmol/L). Coomb's test was positive. Both total (77.2 μmol/L) and indirect bilirubin (66 μmol/L) levels were elevated. There was an inverted CD4(+)/CD8(+)T cell ratio (0.89). The gene sequencing results showed MAGT1 gene c.472delG, p.D158Mfs*6 mutation. His 1-year-6-month old brother, was also identified to have MAGT1 gene c.472delG, p.D158Mfs*6 mutation.The younger brother mainly suffered from recurrent upper respiratory tract infection, accompanied by an inverted CD4(+)/CD8(+)T cell ratio (0.45), an elevated ratio and number of total B cells (45.7%). A total of 7 reports were retrieved including 11 male cases caused by MAGT1 gene mutation. These 11 cases were characterized by EBV viremia (11 cases), recurrent upper respiratory tract infection, otitis media or sinusitis (10 cases), secondary neoplasia diseases (8 cases), reduction of CD4(+)/CD8(+) T cell ratio (7 cases),and autoimmune thrombocytopenia or hemolytic anemia (2 cases). Conclusion: XMEN often manifests as male onset, recurrent upper respiratory tract infection, otitis media or sinusitis, EBV viremia, lymphoproliferative disease or lymphoma, autoimmune diseases and reduction of CD4(+)/CD8 (+)T cell ratio. NKG2D expression in NK cells is significantly reduced, and gene sequencing analysis shows a pathogenic mutation in MAGT1 gene.

Synergistic inhibition of cell proliferation by combined targeting with kinase inhibitors and dietary xanthone is a promising strategy for melanoma treatment

α-Mangostin is a dietary xanthone that displays various biological activities, and numerous reports have shown its efficacy in cancer prevention and inhibition. As most agents have been shown to be ineffective as single-agent therapy for malignant melanoma (MM), the principle of targeted chemotherapy for MM is to use effective inhibitors and combination methods. In this study, we tested the cytotoxicity of several kinase inhibitors, including the glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3 inhibitor CHIR99021, and rapamycin, in combination with a dietary xanthone, α-mangostin, by screening from a kinase inhibitor library for melanogenesis in SK-MEL-2 MM cells, and verified these by clone formation efficiency, terminal dUTP nick end labelling, and expression of apoptosis-related proteins. We also explored the molecular mechanisms for the apoptosis-inducing effects reported. We found a marked synergistic effect of CHIR99021 or rapamycin in combination with α-mangostin, which we verified through apoptosis-related methods. These data provide a strong rationale for the use of α-mangostin as an adjunct to GSK-3 inhibitor or mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor treatment. The intrinsic mechanism behind α-mangostin might be inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT signalling and autophagy, and induction of reactive oxygen species generation.