[Epidemiological investigation of iron deficiency among preschool children in 10 provinces, autonomous regions, or municipalities in China]

Objective: To understand the current status of anemia, iron deficiency, and iron-deficiency anemia among preschool children in China. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a multi-stage stratified sampling method to select 150 streets or townships from 10 Chinese provinces, autonomous regions, or municipalities (East: Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shandong, and Hainan; Central: Henan; West: Chongqing, Shaanxi, Guizhou, and Xinjiang; Northeast: Liaoning). From May 2022 to April 2023, a total of 21 470 children, including community-based children aged 0.5 to<3.0 years receiving child health care and kindergarten-based children aged 3.0 to<7.0 years, were surveyed. They were divided into 3 age groups: infants (0.5 to<1.0 year), toddlers (1.0 to<3.0 years), and preschoolers (3.0 to<7.0 years). Basic information such as sex and date of birth of the children was collected, and peripheral blood samples were obtained for routine blood tests and serum ferritin measurement. The prevalence rates of anemia, iron deficiency, and iron-deficiency anemia were analyzed, and the prevalence rate differences were compared among different ages, sex, urban and rural areas, and regions using the chi-square test. Results: A total of 21 460 valid responses were collected, including 10 780 boys (50.2%). The number of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers were 2 645 (12.3%), 6 244 (29.1%), and 12 571 (58.6%), respectively. The hemoglobin level was (126.7±14.8) g/L, and the serum ferritin level was 32.3 (18.5, 50.1) μg/L. The overall rates of anemia, iron deficiency, and iron-deficiency anemia were 10.4% (2 230/21 460), 28.3% (6 070/21 460), and 3.9% (845/21 460), respectively. The prevalence rate of anemia was higher for boys than for girls (10.9% (1 173/10 780) vs. 9.9% (1 057/10 680), χ2=5.58, P=0.018), with statistically significant differences in the rates for infants, toddlers and preschoolers (18.0% (475/2 645), 10.6% (662/6 244), and 8.7% (1 093/12 571), respectively, χ2=201.81, P<0.01), and the rate was significantly higher for children in rural than that in urban area (11.8% (1 516/12 883) vs. 8.3% (714/8 577), χ2=65.54, P<0.01), with statistically significant differences in the rates by region (χ2=126.60, P<0.01), with the highest rate of 15.8% (343/2 173) for children in Central region, and the lowest rate of 5.3% (108/2 053) in Northeastern region. The prevalence rates of iron deficiency were 33.8% (895/2 645), 32.2% (2 011/6 244), and 25.2% (3 164/12 571) in infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, respectively, and 30.0% (3 229/10 780) in boys vs. 26.6% (2 841/10 680) in girls, 21.7% (1 913/8 821), 40.0% (870/2 173), 27.1% (2 283/8 413), 48.9% (1 004/2 053) in Eastern, Central, Western, and Northeastern regions, respectively, and each between-group showed a significant statistical difference (χ2=147.71, 29.73, 773.02, all P<0.01). The prevalence rate of iron-deficiency anemia showed a significant statistical difference between urban and rural areas, 2.9% (251/8 577) vs. 4.6% (594/12 883) (χ2=38.62, P<0.01), while the difference in iron deficiency prevalence was not significant (χ2=0.51, P=0.476). Conclusions: There has been a notable improvement in iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia among preschool children in China, but the situation remains concerning. Particular attention should be paid to the prevention and control of iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia, especially among infants and children in the Central, Western, and Northeastern regions of China.

Melatonin in cancer biology: pathways, derivatives, and the promise of targeted delivery

Melatonin, historically recognized for its primary role in regulating circadian rhythms, has expanded its influence particularly due to its wide range of biological activities. It has firmly established itself in cancer research. To highlight its versatility, we delved into how melatonin interacts with key signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-Catenin, PI3K, and NF-κB pathways, which play foundational roles in tumor development and progression. Notably, melatonin can intricately modulate these pathways, potentially affecting various cellular functions such as apoptosis, metastasis, and immunity. Additionally, a comprehensive review of current clinical studies provides a dual perspective. These studies confirm melatonin's potential in cancer management but also underscore its inherent limitations, particularly its limited bioavailability, which often relegates it to a supplementary role in treatments. Despite this limitation, there is an ongoing quest for innovative solutions and current advancements include the development of melatonin derivatives and cutting-edge delivery systems. By synthesizing the past, present, and future, this review provides a detailed overview of melatonin's evolving role in oncology, positioning it as a potential cornerstone in future cancer therapeutics.

[Child with sitosterolemia initially presenting with hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia: a case repore and literrature review]

This article focuses on a case study of sitosterolemia in a child who initially presented with hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Sitosterolemia is a rare autosomal recessive lipid metabolism disorder, difficult to diagnose due to its non-typical clinical manifestations. The 8-year-old patient was initially misdiagnosed with pyruvate kinase deficiency. Comprehensive biochemical and molecular biology analyses, including gene sequencing, eventually led to the correct diagnosis of sitosterolemia. This case highlights the complexity and diagnostic challenges of sitosterolemia, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and accurate diagnosis in patients presenting with similar symptoms.

[To compare the efficacy and incidence of severe hematological adverse events of flumatinib and imatinib in patients newly diagnosed with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia]

Objective: To analyze and compare therapy responses, outcomes, and incidence of severe hematologic adverse events of flumatinib and imatinib in patients newly diagnosed with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) . Methods: Data of patients with chronic phase CML diagnosed between January 2006 and November 2022 from 76 centers, aged ≥18 years, and received initial flumatinib or imatinib therapy within 6 months after diagnosis in China were retrospectively interrogated. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed to reduce the bias of the initial TKI selection, and the therapy responses and outcomes of patients receiving initial flumatinib or imatinib therapy were compared. Results: A total of 4 833 adult patients with CML receiving initial imatinib (n=4 380) or flumatinib (n=453) therapy were included in the study. In the imatinib cohort, the median follow-up time was 54 [interquartile range (IQR), 31-85] months, and the 7-year cumulative incidences of CCyR, MMR, MR(4), and MR(4.5) were 95.2%, 88.4%, 78.3%, and 63.0%, respectively. The 7-year FFS, PFS, and OS rates were 71.8%, 93.0%, and 96.9%, respectively. With the median follow-up of 18 (IQR, 13-25) months in the flumatinib cohort, the 2-year cumulative incidences of CCyR, MMR, MR(4), and MR(4.5) were 95.4%, 86.5%, 58.4%, and 46.6%, respectively. The 2-year FFS, PFS, and OS rates were 80.1%, 95.0%, and 99.5%, respectively. The PSM analysis indicated that patients receiving initial flumatinib therapy had significantly higher cumulative incidences of CCyR, MMR, MR(4), and MR(4.5) and higher probabilities of FFS than those receiving the initial imatinib therapy (all P<0.001), whereas the PFS (P=0.230) and OS (P=0.268) were comparable between the two cohorts. The incidence of severe hematologic adverse events (grade≥Ⅲ) was comparable in the two cohorts. Conclusion: Patients receiving initial flumatinib therapy had higher cumulative incidences of therapy responses and higher probability of FFS than those receiving initial imatinib therapy, whereas the incidence of severe hematologic adverse events was comparable between the two cohorts.

[Analysis of tuberculosis epidemiological characteristics and drug resistance among the floating population in Beijing in 2019]

Objective: To analyze the epidemic characteristics and drug resistance of pulmonary tuberculosis among the floating population in Beijing and to provide a scientific basis for formulating strategies for the prevention and control of tuberculosis among the floating population. Methods: Data of tuberculosis patients who were positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis culture was collected from 16 districts and one municipal institution of tuberculosis control and prevention in Beijing in 2019. The strain samples were tested for drug sensitivity by the proportional method. According to household registration location, patients were divided into the floating population and Beijing registration. SPSS 19.0 software analyzed tuberculosis patients' epidemic characteristics and drug resistance in the floating population. Results: In 2019, there were 1 171 culture-positive tuberculosis patients in Beijing, among the floating population, 593 (50.64%) patients were identified, with a male-to-female sex ratio of 2.2∶1 (409∶184). Compared to patients under household registration as Beijing residents, a higher proportion of young adults aged 20-39 years (65.09%,386/593) were noticed, with 55.65% (330/593) reported from the urban areas and 96.80% (574/593) were reported the first time. The differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). After completing the drug sensitivity test, 37 cases were with multiple drug-resistant tuberculosis, accounting for 6.24% (37/593). The rates of isoniazid resistance (42.11%,8/19) and multidrug resistance (21.05%,4/19) in floating population patients after retreatment were significantly higher than those in newly treated patients (11.67%, 67/574 and 5.75%, 33/574), and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Conclusions: Most patients with tuberculosis in the floating population in Beijing in 2019 were young males aged 20-39 years. The reporting areas were urban areas and the newly treated patients mainly. The patients with tuberculosis in the re-treated floating population were more likely to suffer from multidrug and drug resistance, which should be taken as the key population for prevention and control.

[Long-term evaluation and physical and mental effects of residual tinnitus following treatment of sudden hearing loss]

Objective: To clarify the long-term characteristics of tinnitus following treatment of sudden deafness and its long-term physical and mental effects on patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 88 patients (46 males and 42 females; Age from 11 to 89 years) with sudden deafness treated in Department of Otoscope Surgery of Peoples's Libration Army General Hospital in Beijing from April 2020 to January 2021, and the occurrence of tinnitus and treatment effect of all patients were analyzed. Follow-up was conducted for patients with residual tinnitus after treatment for more than 1 year by the investigation and filling in the survey information collection form, Tinnitus Evaluation Questionnaire (TEQ) and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). Descriptive statistics and SPSS 22.0 software were used for statistical data analysis. Results: In this study, 93.2% (82/88) of patients with sudden deafness were accompanied by tinnitus at the onset, and the proportion of long-term tinnitus after treatment was 90.2% (74/82). After 1 year of treatment for sudden deafness, the improvement of tinnitus was significant in low-frequency sudden deafness compared with those of high-frequency, flat and total deafness sudden deafness (χ2 value was 6.801, 4.568 and 4.038, all P<0.05). In patients with residual tinnitus, 9 (12.2%) patients felt minimal loudness or even no loudness, 34 (46.0%) patients felt slight loudness, 28 (37.8%) patients felt tinnitus was relatively loud, and 3 (4.1%) patients felt tinnitus was loud or noisy. Nine (12.2%) patients's sleep was often affected, 41 (55.4%) patients's sleep was sometimes affected, 9 (12.2%) patients's sleep was rarely affected, 15 (20.3%) patients's sleep was almost not affected. Twenty-eight (37.8%) patients basically completely adapted to tinnitus and 46 (62.2%) patients did not completely adapted to residual tinnitus. Eight (10.8%) patients had no impact on life, 39 (52.7%) patients had slight impact, 22 (29.7%) patients had moderate impact, and the other 5 (6.8%) patients had greater impact. According to tinnitus evaluation questionnaire(TEQ), there were 12 cases (16.2%) of grade Ⅰ, 26 cases (35.1%) of grade Ⅱ, 28 cases (37.8%) of grade Ⅲ, 7 cases (9.5%) of grade Ⅳ and 1 case (1.4%) of grade Ⅴ. According to tinnitus handicap inventory(THI), tinnitus disability was classified into grade Ⅰ, 22 cases (29.7%), grade Ⅱ, 14 cases (18.9%), Grade Ⅲ, 27 cases (36.5%) and grade Ⅳ, 11 cases (14.9%). Conclusion: The rate of residual tinnitus following treatment of sudden deafness is high. Some of the patients can completely adapt residual tinnitus after one year, but some of them will be affected when sleep, work and study. Residual tinnitus can lead to tinnitus disability in different degrees.

Development of a removable three-dimensional magnetic probe system for measuring field null on the NanChang Spherical Tokamak

The field null configuration of a poloidal magnetic field is one of the critical conditions for achieving Ohmic breakdown during the initial discharge of a new tokamak. The issue of the Ohmic breakdown on the NanChang Spherical Tokamak (NCST) is still not solved satisfactorily although plasma currents of about 2 kA were found. Hence, a removable three-dimensional magnetic probe (RTMP) system consisting of 25 magnetic probes was designed, calibrated, and constructed on the NCST to evaluate the field null inside a vacuum vessel. After repeated tests, the RTMP system exhibited outstanding performance in terms of accuracy and stability with errors of about 1%. Meanwhile, the RTMP system successfully measured the toroidal field (TF) coil ripples at the magnetic axis. During experiments, the stray field arising from the TF coil implied a strong link between the flexible connection of the TF coil and the Ohmic breakdown on the NCST. After the field null was effectively modified by using a new flexible connection of the TF coil and controlling the induced current in the poloidal field coil, the NCST tokamak reproducibly obtained 20 kA plasma current with the limiter configuration during the plasma current flat-top phase.

[Progress in research of 2019-nCoV infection in children and adolescents]

As 2019-nCoV vaccine is widely used in the adult population, children and adolescents have gradually become an important susceptible population to 2019-nCoV due to their low coverage of the vaccine and high contact degree. Understanding the characteristics of 2019-nCoV infection in minors is vital. This paper summarized the progress in the research of 2019-nCoV in minors by using the data from the retrieval of recently published literature. Furthermore, the key characteristics of 2019-nCoV infection in minors, including the susceptibility, transmissibility, prognosis and immune response were analyzed and the progress in child and adolescent vaccine development was introduced.

[Decoding the evolution of preventive chemotherapy schemes for schistosomiasis in China to improve the precise implementation of the WHO guideline on control and elimination of human schistosomiasis]

Preventive chemotherapy is one of the pivotal interventions for the control and elimination of schistosomiasis, which is effective to reduce the morbidity and prevalence of schistosomiasis. In order to promote the United Nations' sustainable development goals and the targets set for schistosomiasis control in the Ending the neglect to attain the Sustainable Development Goals: a road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021-2030, WHO released the guideline on control and elimination of human schistosomiasis in 2022, with major evidence-based updates of the current preventive chemotherapy strategy for schistosomiasis. In China where great success has been achieved in schistosomiasis control, the preventive chemotherapy strategy for schistosomiasis has been updated several times during the past seven decades. This article reviews the evolution of the WHO guidelines on preventive chemotherapy and Chinese national preventive chemotherapy schemes, compares the current Chinese national preventive chemotherapy scheme and the recommendations for preventive chemotherapy proposed in the 2022 WHO guideline on control and elimination of human schistosomiasis, and proposes recommendations for preventive chemotherapy during the future implementation of the 2022 WHO guideline, so as to provide insights into schistosomiasis control among public health professionals engaging in healthcare foreign aid.

[Single center experience of transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a simplified operative protocol]

Objective: To summarize the single center experience of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with a simplified operative protocol. Methods: Consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR (TF-TAVR) from July 2020 to December 2020 in Fuwai Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. We compared the baseline characteristic, procedure information, 30-day follow-up outcomes of the patients who underwent TF-TAVR without the simplified operative protocol (routine group) or with the simplified operative protocol (simplified protocol group). Results: 93 patients were collected, 42 patients belonging to routine group, 51 patients belonging to simplified protocol group. In simplified protocol group, there were 51 patients planned to use ultrasound-guided femoral access puncture, procedure was successful in all 51 patients (100%). There were 49 patients planned to use the radial artery as the secondary access, procedure was successful in 45 patients (92%). There were 48 patients planned to use the strategy of avoidance of urinary catheter, this strategy was achieved in 35 patients (73%). There were 12 patients planned to use the left ventricular guidewire to pace, procedure was successful in 11 patients (92%). There were no differences in baseline characteristics, major clinical endpoints and 30-day follow-up outcomes between the two groups. Meanwhile, the procedure time ((62.5±17.9)min vs. (78.3±16.7)min, P<0.001), operation room time ((133.7±25.1)min vs. (159.2±42.6)min, P<0.001), X-ray exposure time ((17.2±6.5)min vs. (20.2±7.7)min, P=0.027) were significantly shorten in simplified protocol group compared with the routine group. Conclusion: Our study results indicate that the simplified operative protocol of TF-TAVR is as effective and safe as the routine operative protocol, meanwhile using the simplified operative protocol can significantly increase the operative efficiency of TF-TAVR.

[Initial clinical experience of left bundle branch pacing after transcatheter aortic valve implantation]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of left bundle branch pacing(LBBP) in patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Methods: This is a retrospective study. A total of 35 patients underwent TAVI and received pacemaker implantation from January 2018 to December 2020 in Beijing Fuwai Hospital were enrolled. Patients were divided into LBBP group (n=12) and right ventricular apex pacing (RVAP) group (n=23) according to the pacing position. The success rate of operation in LBBP group was calculated, and the occurrence of complications were observed, and the parameters of pacemaker were measured on the 3rd day and 1, 3 and 6 months after operation. The N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), echocardiographic and ECG indexes were compared between the two groups on the 3rd day and 1, 3, and 6 months after pacemaker implantation. Result: A total of 35 patients were included, The age was (76.4±7.7) years, including 19 males (54.3%). The procedure time ((86.58±17.10)min vs. (68.74±9.18)min, P<0.001) and fluoroscopy duration ((20.08±4.44)min vs. (17.00±2.26)min, P<0.001) were significantly longer in LBBP group compared with RVAP group. The operation success rate of LBBP group was 11/12. There was no serious operation related complications such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, electrode dislocation, infection, and lower limb bleeding. The patients were followed up for 7.43 (5.21, 9.84) months. The programmed parameters of pacemaker were in the ideal range and stable during follow-up. At 3 and 6 months after operation, the left ventricular ejection fraction in LBBP group was higher than that in RVAP Group (at 3 months: (60.75±2.89)% vs. (57.35±3.33)%, P=0.004; at 6 months: (63.17±3.33)% vs. (56.17±3.97)%, P<0.001), NT-proBNP values was lower in LBBP group than that in RVAP Group (at 3 months: 822 (607, 1 150)ng/L vs. 1 052 (902, 1 536)ng/L, P=0.006; at 6 months: 440 (330,679)ng/L vs. 783 (588, 1 023)ng/L, P=0.001). At 1, 3 and 6 months after operation, the QRS duration was shorter in LBBP group than that in RVAP group (1 month: 99 (97, 107)ms vs. 126(124, 130)ms, P<0.001; 3 months: 98(96, 105)ms vs. 129(128, 133)ms, P<0.001; 6 months: 96(94, 104)ms vs. 130(128, 132)ms, P<0.001). Conclusions: For patients with permanent pacemaker indications after TAVI, LBBP is feasible, safe and reliable. It could improve the cardiac function in the short term, the long-term effect of LBBP needs to be further observed.

[Efficacy and safety of Kangbingdu granules in the treatment of influenza: a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, positive-drug parallel control multicenter clinical trial]

Objective: To observe the efficacy and safety of Kangbingdu granules (KBD) in the treatment of influenza. Methods: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, and positive-drug parallel control trial was conducted in 27 Grade ⅢA hospitals in China and the subjects were randomly assigned to the KBD test group or the oseltamivir phosphate capsule control group at a ratio of 1∶1. 200 subjects were planned to be enrolled in each group. The experimental group was given KBD (18g each time, 3 times a day) and oseltamivir phosphate simulator orally, while the control group was given oseltamivir phosphate capsule (75 mg each time, twice a day) and KBD simulator orally for 5 days. The primary efficacy indicators included the remission time of major clinical symptoms and the time of complete defervescence. The secondary efficacy indicators included dosage of acetaminophen, the change of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome score and the remission time of other important clinical symptoms. The efficacy of KBD in the test group and Oseltamivir phosphate control group were compared. Adverse events or adverse reactions were observed at the same time to evaluate the safety of KBD Granules. Results: A total of 393 subjects from 27 Grade ⅢA hospitals in China were enrolled. The experimental group included 195 subjects and 191 subjects (97.95%) completed the trial, While the control group included 198 subjects and 195 subjects (98.48%) completed the trial. There was no significant difference in the shedding rate and rejection rate between the two groups (P>0.05). In the Full Analysis Set (FAS), the mean age of the experimental group was (34.9±14.4) years old, with 83 males (42.78%). The mean age of the control group was (33.3±13.5) years old, with 78 males (39.59%). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in demographic data, physical examination, viral pathogen detection, total score of TCM syndromes and scores of each symptom at baseline (P>0.05). In the FAS, the remission time M (Q₁, Q₃) of major clinical symptoms was 3.0 (3.0, 4.0) days in the experimental group and 3.0 (3.0, 4.0) days in the control group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The time M (Q₁, Q₃) of complete defervescence was 34.0 (20.3, 49.0) hours in the experimental group and 36.5 (19.6, 48.8) hours in the control group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). KBD granules had the same effect as Oseltamivir phosphate capsule (P>0.05) in terms of acetaminophen dosage, TCM syndrome effect and disappearance rate of most important clinical symptoms. Meanwhile, the disappearance rate of dizziness and chest distress on day 3 in the KBD granules group was better than that of oseltamivir phosphate capsule (P<0.05). Conclusion: KBD granules have the same efficacy as Oseltamivir Phosphate capsule in the treatment of influenza and the drug safety is good.

[Evaluation and embolization strategy by ASITN/SIR grade for injured internal carotid artery of nasopharyngeal carcinoma]

Objective: To study the strategy of endovascular treatment for patients with the risks of internal carotid artery (ICA) rupture and bleeding during the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) based on American Society of Intervention and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology (ASITN/SIR) grade of collateral circulation. Methods: A total of 56 patients (45 males and 11 females, aged from 28 to 76 years old) diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University from July 2018 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 15 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 4, 24 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 3, 5 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 2, 5 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 1, and 7 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 0. The events of stroke and death were analyzed statistically. Results: ALL patients with ASITN/SIR grade 4 or 3 and some of patients with ASITN/SIR grades 2-0 passed balloon occlusion test and electrophysiological monitoring. ICA pseudoaneurysm was found in 35 patients, and one-stage ICA embolization was performed in 29 patients after evaluation. Among them, 8 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 4 and 10 cases of ASITN/SIR grade 3 with obvious posterior circulation compensation obtained successful one-stage ICA embolization without cerebral ischemia; cerebral ischemic events occurred in 5 (55.6%) of 9 patients with ASITN/SIR grade 3 and in 1(50.0%) of 2 patients with ASITN/SIR grade 2. The total incidence of ischemic events was 20.7% (6/29) and 1 case was disabled (1/29, 3.4%). Among patients with ASITN/SIR 3, there were statistically significant differences in stroke event rate between patients with obvious posterior circulation compensation and patients with slight or without posterior circulation compensation (0/10 vs. 5/9, χ(2)=4.95, P=0.026). Follow-up time was 10.1±7.8 months, and 46 patients were survival (46/56, 82.1%) and 10 patients died (10/56, 17.9%) with a mean survival time of 2.6±1.4 months. Conclusions: For NPC patients with ICA invasion, ASITN/SIR based on DSA can simplify the assessment process of cerebral blood flow compensation. ICA can be embolized directly in patients with ASITN/SIR 4 or 3 with obvious posterior communicating compensation.

[Effect of integrated schistosomiasis control measures in Hunan Province from 2004 to 2019]

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of the integrated schistosomiasis control measures in Hunan Province from 2004 to 2019, so as to provide insights into the development of the schistosomiasis elimination strategy.

METHODS

The integrated schistosomiasis control measures implemented by the health, agriculture, water resources, forestry, land and resources sectors were retrospectively collected in Hunan Province from 2004 to 2019, and the completion of each measure, cost of control measures, Schistosoma japonicum infections in humans and bovines, and snail status were analyzed each year. An index system for assessing the integrated schistosomiasis control effect was constructed using the Delphi method to calculate the integrated schistosomiasis control effect index. In addition, a cost-effect analysis was performed in terms of the decline in the prevalence of S. japonicum infections in humans and bovines, areas with snails in inner embankments, and areas with infected snails.

RESULTS

A total of 7 110 926 500 Yuan were invested into the integrated schistosomiasis control program of Hunan Province from 2004 to 2019. During the 16-year period, a total of 277 437.12 hm² snail habitats received molluscicidal treatments, 6 927 230 person-times given expanded chemotherapy, 2 116 247 bovine-times given expanded chemotherapy, 954 850 harmless toilets built, 290 359 bovines fenced, 136 666 bovines eliminated, 141 905 machines used to replace bovines, 39 048.63 hm² water lands improved as dry lands, 724.12 km irrigation regions improved, 3 994 300 populations covered with safe water, 191 102.89 hm² forests planted and 38 535.27 hm² lands leveled. The prevalence of S. japonicum infections was 4.29% in humans and 4.48% in bovines in Hunan Province in 2004, with 2 449.37 hm² snail habitats in inner embankments and 3 423.74 hm² infected snail areas. In 2019, the prevalence of S. japonicum infections reduced to 0 in both humans and bovines, and areas of snail habitats reduced to 540.92 hm² (77.92% reductions), while the areas with infected snails reduced to 0. The overall integrated schistosomiasis control effect index appeared a tendency towards a rise over years since 2004, and the integrated schistosomiasis control effect index was 97.35 in 2019; the annual mean costs for a 1% reduction in the prevalence of S. japonicum infections in 100 populations and 100 bovines were 70.11 Yuan and 4 204.78 Yuan, and the annual mean costs for a 1% reduction in the snail areas in inner embankments and infected snail areas were 2 010.20 Yuan and 1 298.09 Yuan, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated control measures achieve remarkable effectiveness for schistosomiasis control in Hunan Province, with a remarkable decline in the prevalence of S. japonicum infections in humans and bovines and great shrinking of snail areas in inner embankments and infected snail areas. Adequate fund investment is required to improve the integrated schistosomiasis control measures and consolidate the control achievements.

[Endemic situation of schistosomiasis in national surveillance sites of Hunan Province from 2015 to 2019]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the changes in the endemic situation of schistosomiasis in national surveillance sites of Hunan Province, so as to provide scientific basis for the development of the schistosomiasis elimination programme in the province.

METHODS

According to the requirements of the National Guidelines for Schistosomiasis Surveillance in China (2014 version), a total of 41 national schistosomiasis surveillance sites were assigned in all disease-endemic counties (districts) across Hunan Province. During the period between 2015 and 2019, Schistosoma japonicum infections were monitored in local residents, mobile populations and livestock, and snail status was monitored. The morbidity due to schistosomiasis and snail status was compared between years.

RESULTS

The sero-prevalence of S. japonicum infections was 2.57% and 1.56% in local residents and mobile populations in national surveillance sites of Hunan Province from 2015 to 2019, respectively, and the sero-prevalence appeared a tendency towards a decline over years. A higher sero-prevalence rate of S. japonicum infections was seen in men than in women (P < 0.01). During the 5-year study period, the sero-prevalence rate of human S. japonicum infections appeared a tendency towards a decline in the marshland, embankment, inner embankment and hilly types of endemic areas over years. There were 44 and 19 egg -positives detected in local residents and 5 and 1 egg-positives in mobile populations in 2015 and 2016 respectively. A total of 9 346 domestic animals were monitored from 2015 to 2019, and 6 egg-positives were detected in 2015 and 2016 (all were bovine). A total of 0.155 billion m² settings were surveyed from 2015 to 2019, and the mean density of living snails appeared a tendency towards a decline over years, with a 45.79% reduction in 2019 as compared to 2015. However, no S. japonicum infections were identified in snails during the 5-year period. A total of 1 469 mixed snail samples were detected using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and 6 positive snail samples were identified in 2015 (one sample) and 2017 (5 samples).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall endemic situation of schistosomiasis appears a tendency towards a decline in Hunan Province, and the prevalence of S. japonicum infections is at a low level in humans and livestock; however, there is still a risk of schistosomiasis transmission. Improvements of health education, intensification of schistosomiasis examinations in mobile populations and reinforcement of the surveillance-response system is required to consolidate the achievements of schistosomiasis control in Hunan Province.

Influenza a virus and Streptococcus pneumonia coinfection potentially promotes bacterial colonization and enhances B lymphocyte depression and reduction

Influenza has frequently been epidemic in recent years. However, the mechanisms of severe pneumonia with postinfluenza Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP) secondary infection have not been fully understood. In this study, we explored the mechanisms of pneumonia in postinfluenza A virus (IAV) infection via a mouse model. Mice were intranasally inoculated with SP three days after IAV inoculation. We then collected samples at three time points to dynamically observe the pathological progression. In IAV infection alone, lymphocyte infiltration and widened alveolar intervals were observed. In the blood, levels of the CD19+, CD19+CD21+ and CD19+CD79β+B lymphocyte subpopulations were reduced, and IFN-γ and IL-10 were elevated. Slight atrophy was seen in the spleen, which was due to splenic B lymphocyteinitiated apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. When SP infection occurred after IAV infection, the pulmonary inflammation was significantly aggravated; a fair number of lymphocytes and neutrophils infiltrated simultaneously with exfoliated bronchial epithelial cells, vascular endothelial cells, widened alveolar septum and hemorrhaging. Increasing edema fluid and bacteria accumulated in the alveolar cavity. Decreased CD19+, CD19+CD21+ and CD19+CD79β+B lymphocyte subpopulations and increased interferon gamma (IFN-γ) or interleukin 10 (IL-10) were more prominent compared to those with viral infection alone. Spleen atrophy resulting from coinfection was more obvious because of massive splenic B lymphocyte apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway compared to viral infection alone. This study shows that although inflammation caused by SP infection alone was temporary, preceding IAV infection provided favorable conditions for SP colonization and multiplication by destroying lung structure and suppressing humoral immunity. Synergistic IAV-SP coinfection is likely to facilitate more SP colonization and promote B lymphocyte-suppression and reduction. Eventually, the pneumonia worsened.

Overexpression of paralogues of the wheat expansin gene TaEXPA8 improves low-temperature tolerance in Arabidopsis

Low temperature is one of the important factors limiting wheat yield in cold regions. Expansins are nonenzymatic proteins that loosen cell walls and play important roles in diverse biological processes related to cell wall modification, including development and stress tolerance. Many studies have shown that expansins are involved in resistance to various abiotic stresses, such as heat and drought. However, the role of expansins in response to low-temperature stress remains unclear. Based on our previous transcriptome data of a winter wheat cultivar Dongnongdongmai 2 (DN2), we found that one of the expansin genes, TaEXPA8, was significantly induced by low temperature, indicating a role for TaEXPA8 in cold resistance. In this study, the paralogous TaEXPA8 genes TaEXPA8-A, TaEXPA8-B and TaEXPA8-D were cloned by RT-PCR. These three genes were then transformed into Arabidopsis by the floral dip method. Expression patterns of TaEXPA8 genes in different tissues and in response to several abiotic stresses and hormones were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results showed that TaEXPA8-A and TaEXPA8-B were expressed mainly in roots, while TaEXPA8-D was expressed predominantly in flowers. TaEXPA8 genes were induced by low-temperature and drought. The overexpression of TaEXPA8-B and TaEXPA8-D enhanced low-temperature resistance and had increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activity and soluble protein, MDA and proline content. In summary, our study suggested that the expansins TaEXPA8-B and TaEXPA8-D are involved in the response to low temperature and possibly play a role in cold resistance by activating the protective enzyme system.

Magnetism study on a triangular lattice antiferromagnet Cu2(OH)3Br

Magnetism of Cu₂(OH)₃Br single crystals based on a triangular lattice is studied by means of magnetic susceptibility, pulsed-field magnetization, and specific heat measurements. There are two inequivalent Cu²⁺ sites in an asymmetric unit. Both Cu²⁺ sublattices undergo a long-range antiferromagnetic (AFM) order at [Formula: see text] K. Upon cooling, an anisotropy crossover from Heisenberg to XY behavior is observed below 7.5 K from the anisotropic magnetic susceptibility. The magnetic field applied within the XY plane induces a spin-flop transition of Cu²⁺ ions between 4.9 T and 5.3 T. With further increasing fields, the magnetic moment is gradually increased but is only about half of the saturation of a Cu²⁺ ion even in 30 T. The individual reorientation of the inequivalent Cu²⁺ spins under field is proposed to account for the magnetization behavior. The observed spin-flop transition is likely related to one Cu site, and the AFM coupling among the rest Cu spins is so strong that the 30 T field cannot overcome the anisotropy. The temperature dependence of the magnetic specific heat, which is well described by a sum of two gapped AFM contributions, is a further support for the proposed scenario.

Discrete Superconducting Phases in FeSe-Derived Superconductors

A general feature of unconventional superconductors is the existence of a superconducting dome in the phase diagram. Here we report a series of discrete superconducting phases in the simplest iron-based superconductor, FeSe thin flakes, by continuously tuning the carrier concentration through the intercalation of Li and Na ions with a solid ionic gating technique. Such discrete superconducting phases are robust against the substitution of 20% S for Se, but they are vulnerable to the substitution of 2% Cu for Fe, highlighting the importance of the iron site being intact. The superconducting phase diagram for FeSe derivatives is given, which is distinct from that of other unconventional superconductors.

[Clinical efficacy of of endoscopic assisted open pathway combined with radiotherapy in the treatment of advanced maxillary sinus malignant tumor]

Objective:The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical effect of endoscopic assisted open pathway combined with radiotherapy in the treatment of patients with advanced maxillary sinus malignant tumor.Method:A retrospective analysis was performed on the survival of 29 patients with advanced maxillary sinus malignant tumor treated by endoscopic assisted open approach combined with radiotherapy.Result:A total of twenty nine patients with cancer lesions were successfully resected, of which 7 cases underwent preoperative radiotherapy plus surgery plus postoperative radiotherapy, 22 cases were treated by surgery plus radiotherapy after operation. The median follow up time was 60 months (23-129 months). The 3 year and 5 year survival rate of the patients was 72% and 61%, respectively (90% and 80% was in Ⅱ stage respectively. 63% and 51% was in Ⅲ+Ⅳ stage respectively).Conclusion:Endoscopic assisted open pathway combined with radiotherapy is an effective method for the treatment of maxillary sinus carcinoma, and it can still be well treated with preoperative radiotherapy in patients with stage Ⅳ without distant metastasis.

Field implementation of long-distance quantum key distribution over aerial fiber with fast polarization feedback

Quantum key distribution with polarized qubits has not yet been realized over the aerial fiber, due to rapid polarization changes. Here, we report our recent work towards quantum communication through an aerial fiber channel. We designed a fast polarization feedback module featuring high efficiency, fast speed, and good stability. With this module, we implemented long-distance quantum key distribution over different types of aerial fiber links based on polarization encoding. Our work takes a significant step towards the application of quantum communications in complex environments.

Effect of live combined bifidobacterium, lactobacillus, and enterococcus powder plus lansoprazole on clinical symptoms and mental health in patients with peptic ulcer

AIM

To explore the effect of live combined bifidobacterium, lactobacillus, and enterococcus powder plus lansoprazole on the clinical symptoms and mental health in patients with peptic ulcer.

METHODS

One hundred and eighteen patients with peptic ulcer were admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology, Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital from June 2017 to May 2018. The patients were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group. Both groups were treated with lansoprazole, and the observation group was additionally given live combined bifidobacterium, lactobacillus, and enterococcus powder. The clinical symptoms, the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90) score, and the quality of life were compared between the two groups of patients before and after treatment.

RESULTS

The total score of SCL-90 and the scores of somatization, depression, anxiety, and hostility in patients with peptic ulcer were all higher than those of healthy ones (P < 0.05). After treatment, the scores of abdominal pain, abdominal distention, sour regurgitation, and belching in the two groups were lower than those before treatment, and abdominal pain score was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The scores of SCL-90 and somatization, depression, anxiety and hostility in both groups were significantly lower than those before treatment (P < 0.05), but the difference between the control group and the observation group was statistically significant (P < 0.05). After treatment, the quality of life scores in the two groups were significantly higher than those before treatment, and the quality of life scores in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Live combined bifidobacterium, lactobacillus, and enterococcus powder plus lansoprazole can improve the clinical symptoms, mental health, and quality of life in patients with peptic ulcer.

The association between subclass-specific IgG Fc N-glycosylation profiles and hypertension in the Uygur, Kazak, Kirgiz, and Tajik populations

Hypertension results from the interaction of genetic and acquired factors. IgG occurs in the form of different subclasses, of which the effector functions show significant variation. The detailed differences between the glycosylation profiles of the individual IgG subclasses may be lost in a profiling method for total IgG N-glycosylation. In this study, subclass-specific IgG Fc glycosylation profile was investigated in the four northwestern Chinese minority populations, namely, Uygur (UIG), Kazak (KZK), Kirgiz (KGZ), and Tajik (TJK), composed of 274 hypertensive patients and 356 healthy controls. The results showed that ten directly measured IgG N-glycan traits (i.e., IgG1G0F, IgG2G0F, IgG2G1FN, IgG2G1FS, IgG2G2S, IgG4G0F, IgG4G1FS, IgG4G1S, IgG4G2FS, and IgG4G2N) representing galactosylation and sialylation are significantly associated with hypertension, with IgG4 consistently showing weaker associations of its sialylation, across the four ethnic groups. We observed a modest improvement on the AUC of ROC curve when the IgG Fc N-glycan traits are added into the glycan-based model (difference between AUCs, 0.044, 95% CI: 0.016-0.072, P = 0.002). The AUC of the diagnostic model indicated that the subclass-specific IgG Fc N-glycan profiles provide more information reinforcing current models utilizing age, gender, BMI, and ethnicity, and demonstrate the potential of subclass-specific IgG Fc N-glycosylation profiles to serve as a biomarker for hypertension. Further research is however required to determine the additive value of subclass-specific IgG Fc N-glycosylation on top of biomarkers, which are currently used.

Field-Driven Quantum Criticality in the Spinel Magnet ZnCr_{2}Se_{4}

We report detailed dc and ac magnetic susceptibilities, specific heat, and thermal conductivity measurements on the frustrated magnet ZnCr_{2}Se_{4}. At low temperatures, with an increasing magnetic field, this spinel material goes through a series of spin state transitions from the helix spin state to the spiral spin state and then to the fully polarized state. Our results indicate a direct quantum phase transition from the spiral spin state to the fully polarized state. As the system approaches the quantum criticality, we find strong quantum fluctuations of the spins with behaviors such as an unconventional T^{2}-dependent specific heat and temperature-independent mean free path for the thermal transport. We complete the full phase diagram of ZnCr_{2}Se_{4} under the external magnetic field and propose the possibility of frustrated quantum criticality with extended densities of critical modes to account for the unusual low-energy excitations in the vicinity of the criticality. Our results reveal that ZnCr_{2}Se_{4} is a rare example of a 3D magnet exhibiting a field-driven quantum criticality with unconventional properties.

Evidence of an Improper Displacive Phase Transition in Cd_{2}Re_{2}O_{7} via Time-Resolved Coherent Phonon Spectroscopy

We have used a combination of ultrafast coherent phonon spectroscopy, ultrafast thermometry, and time-dependent Landau theory to study the inversion symmetry breaking phase transition at T_{c}=200  K in the strongly spin-orbit coupled correlated metal Cd_{2}Re_{2}O_{7}. We establish that the structural distortion at T_{c} is a secondary effect through the absence of any softening of its associated phonon mode, which supports a purely electronically driven mechanism. However, the phonon lifetime exhibits an anomalously strong temperature dependence that decreases linearly to zero near T_{c}. We show that this behavior naturally explains the spurious appearance of phonon softening in previous Raman spectroscopy experiments and should be a prevalent feature of correlated electron systems with linearly coupled order parameters.

Three-dimensional magnetic interactions in quasi-two-dimensional PdAs2O6

Millimeter-sized PdAs₂O₆ single crystals are grown using the vapor transport technique. The magnetic order at [Formula: see text] K is studied by measuring magnetic properties, specific heat, and neutron single crystal diffraction. The anisotropic magnetic susceptibility and a metamagnetic transition observed in magnetic fields above 20 kOe suggest that the magnetic moment lies in the ab plane, consistent with the magnetic structure determined by neutron single crystal diffraction. Below 140 K, Pd²⁺ ions order ferromagnetically in the ab plane but antiferromagnetically along the crystallographic c axis. The ordered moment is refined to be 2.09(2) [Formula: see text]/Pd²⁺ using the fitted magnetic form factor of Pd²⁺ . A weak λ-type anomaly around T _N was observed in specific heat and the magnetic entropy change across T _N is 1.72 J mol^-1 K.This small entropy change and the temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility support the presence of short range correlations in a wide temperature range [Formula: see text] 250 K. The comparison with SrRu₂O₆ suggests that the magnetic interactions in PdAs₂O₆ are dominated by Pd-(O-[Formula: see text]-O)-Pd super-superexchange and three dimensional despite the quasi-two-dimensional arrangement of magnetic ions. The comparison with NiAs₂O₆ suggests that increasing covalency of isostructural compounds is an effective approach to design and to discover new materials with higher magnetic order temperatures in the localized regime.

Connexin 43 enhances oxaliplatin cytotoxicity in colorectal cancer cell lines

Oxaliplatin, a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent, is an important first-line drug in the treatment of colorectal cancers, but drug resistance causes treatment failure. It has been reported that gap junctional communication can enhance the cytotoxicity of platinum drugs.  The gap junction formed of connexin proteins provides a direct pathway for electrical and metabolic cell-cell interaction. The voltage-dependent gating of gap junction allows small hydrophilic molecules and ions to permeate to adjacent cells. Connexin 43 is a diagnostic marker for cancer therapy and the predominant connexin isoform in many cell types. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of connexin 43 in oxaliplatin activity by using colorectal cancer cell lines. LoVo and HCT116 cell lines were used for analysis. Connexin 43 expression was confirmed by western blot and immunocytochemistry. MTT, western blot, "Parachute" dye-coupling assays and reactive oxygen species measurement were used to detect cytotoxicity and the inhibition of connexin 43 expression induced by oxaliplatin. Results showed that connexin 43 enhanced oxaliplatin cytotoxicity through gap junctional communication function and high concentration of oxaliplatin inhibited connexin 43 expression to counteract its cytotoxicity. This study suggested that connexin 43 could be considered a molecular target of oxaliplatin activity in colorectal cancer.

[Analysis of newborn screening for galactosemia and genotype-phenotype of confirmed galatosemia cases]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of galactosemia(GAL), and the characteristics of genotype and phenotype of newborns who were confirmed with GAL in newborn screening in Zhejiang province. Method: The number of all live births, newborn screened infants and all clinical data of confirmed newborns with GAL from October 2013 to March 2015 were retrospectively analyzed by reviewing the data of Zhejiang Province screening center database. And the characteristics of genes and the clinical data of GAL cases who were confirmed by correlative gene test and enzyme activity measurement were analyzed. Result: The prevalence of GAL in Zhejiang province was 1/189 857. Among them, there was 1 case confirmed with GAL typeⅠ (prevalence, 1/759 428), with mutations of c. 904+ 1G>T and c. 687G>A, the enzyme activity of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (GALT) was 56.4% of controls. And there was 1 case of GAL typeⅡ(prevalence, 1/759 428), with mutations of c. 85G>T and c. 502G>A. There were 2 cases confirmed with GAL type Ⅲ(prevalence, 1/379 714), with mutations of c. 505C>T, c. 452G>A, c. 280G>A and c. 925G>A, the enzyme activity of UDP-galactose-4'-epimerase (GALE) were 42% and 38% of controls, respectively. All cases had different abnormal biochemical marks of liver function, and 1 case had combined hyperlactacidemia or hyperammonemia or increase of multiple kinds of amino acids, respectively. The newborn of GAL type Ⅱ had phacoscotasmus before treatment. All the cases were fed with lactose free milk powder, and all the abnormal parameters were improved during following up. Conclusion: The disease of GAL is rare in Zhejiang province, and its genotype distribution is scattered with comparatively mind clinical manifestations, and the cases with early treatment with lactose free milk powder have good prognosis. All cases needed to be treated and followed up for a life-long time. It is recommended that the high risk cases with GAL should be screened as soon as possible.

[Copy number variants analysis in whole-genome of patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome]

Objective: To explore the abnormality of chromosomes of patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome and the probable association between Copy Number Variations (CNV) and lipoma tethered cord syndrome. Methods: By using the Agilent SurePrint G3 Human CGH 8×60K Microarray Kit, we performed genome-wide screening for CNV on 11 patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome adopted by the Neurosurgery Department of Chinese PLA General Hospital and their healthy parents from March 2015 to May 2015. We analyze CNVs got by the kit against the gene databases. Unrelated confirmed polymorphisms contained in Database of Genomic Variants (DGV) were discarded. Database of Chromosomal Imbalance and Phenotype in Humans using Ensemble Resources (DECIPHER) helps us with similarity inquiry, and UCSC Genome Browser helps in identification of non-polymorphic CNV. Biological process, cellular component and molecular function enrichment of these genes were conducted to confirm the association between the CNV and lipoma tethered cord syndrome. Results: 17 CNV were discovered by aCGH in 11 patients. Chr8: 39258894-39386158 and Chr15: 20481702-22509254 showed a high frequency of 5/11. Angelman syndrome and Prader-Wolli syndrome were found to be associated with the CNV of Chr15. Gene function enrichment analysis revealed that ADAM5P and ADAM3A contained in CNV obtained from patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome was also associated with orofacial clefts. Conclusions: CNV in Chr8 and Chr15 of patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome had a higher frequency than that of common human. It revealed that there is probable association between these two pieces of CNV and lipoma tethered cord syndrome. To explorer related genes or CNV, focusing on certain type of NTDs may increase the research efficiency and get more accurate results.

[Clinical, biochemical and gene mutation characteristics of short chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency by neonatal screening]

Objective: To investigate the incidence, clinical, biochemical and gene mutation characteristics of short chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (SCADD). Method: From January, 2009 to October, 2015, a retrospective analysis of the urine organic acids and acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (ACADS) gene mutation characteristics of patients diagnosed as SCADD by newborn screening using tandem mass spectrometry in Department of Genetics and Metabolism (Newborn screening Center of Zhejiang Province), Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Dietary guidance, life management and supplementation of L-carnitine were conducted, and growth and intelligence development were observed during follow-up among the SCADD patients. Result: A total of 1 430 024 neonates, seventeen cases were diagnosed with SCADD with an incidence of 1/84 117. All patients had no clinical symptoms, and intelligence and physical development were normal. Blood butylacyl-carnitine (C4) levels and the ratios increased, C4 0.713.14 μmol/L(reference value 0.03-0.48 μmol/L), C4/C2 0.07-0.23(reference value 0.01-0.04), C4/C3 0.65-2.04(reference value 0.05-0.39). Thirteen with increased urinary ethyl malonic acid (9.30-90.99 mg/g creatinine (reference value 0-6.20 mg/g creatinine )), one patient was accompanied by increased methyl succinic acid (12.33 mg/g creatinine(reference value 0-6.40 mg/g creatinine)), one subject with increased acetylglycine (3.52 mg/g creatinine(reference value 0-0.70 mg/g creatinine)). A total of 13 known mutations were detected in the ACADS gene, 1 homozygous mutation (c.1031A>G), the others are compound heterozygous mutations. One frameshift mutation (c.508_509delGC) and 12 missense mutations were detected. Common mutation were c. 1031A>G(35.3%), c. 164C>T(20.6%) and c. 991G>A(11.8%). SCADD in newborn screening program had no clinical symptoms and normal growth development after 8-42 months follow-up. Conclusion: Cases with SCADD had no clinical symptoms with an incidence of 1/84117. The c. 164C>T and c. 1031A>G may be the common mutations.

A new method to induce molecular low bias negative differential resistance with multi-peaks

According to a first-principles study of the transport properties of two thiolated anthracene-9,10-diono molecules sandwiching ethyl, a new method to induce molecular low bias negative differential resistance with multi-peaks for strong n- or p-type molecules is proposed. The anthracene-9,10-diono molecule shows strong n-type characteristics when in contact with Au and Ag electrodes via a thiolate. The multiple negative differential resistance effect originated from the molecule-electrode couple is different between Ag and Au electrodes. Our investigations may promise potential for applications in molecular devices with low power dissipation and multifunction in the future.

[Relationship and clinical significance between mutated BRAF with prophylactic central-neck nodal dissection in papillary thyroid carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the molecular diagnosis marker of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), the relationship between lymphatic metastasis of central neck compartment PTC, and the operation indication of prophylactic central neck dissection.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study, including 275 PTC patients and detected their BRAF mutation rates during 2012 and 2014 and explored the risk factors of the central node lymphatic metastasis by Logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Of the 275 PTC patients, 224 (81.5%) were female and 51 (18.5%) were male. BRAF mutational rates were 53.8% (148/275) and lymphatic metastasis 57.8% (159/275). Multivariate analysis showed calcification (OR(adjusted)=1.47, 95%CI: 1.10-1.98, P=0.01), tumor diameter (OR(adjusted)=1.48, 95%CI: 1.04-2.30, P=0.048) and age (OR(adjusted)=1.48, 95%CI: 1.04-2.30, P=0.048) were associated with lymphatic metastasis. In stratified analysis, BRAF mutation (OR(adjusted)=3.19, 95%CI: 1.18-9.43, P=0.023) in clear boarder group and BRAF mutation (OR(adjusted)=4.84, 95%CI: 1.68-13.84, P=0.003) in calcification group were more likely to have lymphatic metastases.

CONCLUSION

Central neck metastasis takes up a high ratio in papillary thyroid cancer patients, BRAF mutation in papillary thyroid carcinoma is a characteristic molecular event. Furthermore, patients with calcification under ultrasound detection, lower age group and longer tumor diameter are more susceptible to suffer central neck metastasis. Especially for stratified analysis, non-calcified BRAF mutation or BRAF mutation with clear border under ultrasound detection are more susceptible to suffer central neck metastasis, and radical prophylactic central neck dissection should be carried on for these patients.

Thermal conductivity of the diamond-chain compound Cu₃(CO₃)₂(OH)₂

Thermal conductivity (κ) of a distorted spin diamond-chain system, Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2, is studied at low temperatures down to 0.3 K and in magnetic fields up to 14 T. In zero field, the κ(T) curve with heat current along the chain direction has very small magnitudes and shows a pronounced three-peak structure. The magnetic fields along and perpendicular to the chains change the κ strongly in a way having good correspondence to the changes of magnetic specific heat in fields. The data analysis based on the Debye model for phononic thermal conductivity indicates that the heat transport is due to phonons and the three-peak structure is caused by two resonant scattering processes by the magnetic excitations. In particular, the spin excitations of the chain subsystem are strongly scattering phonons rather than transporting heat.

shRNA inhibits the expression of chicken telomerase reverse transcriptase in MDCC-MSB1 cells

Here, we investigated the effects of blocking chicken telomerase reverse transcriptase (chTERT) in MDCC-MSB1 cells, using small-hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) to interfere with gene expression. shRNAs specific to chTERT mRNA were designed, cloned into DNA plasmid vectors, and transfected into MDCC-MSB1 cells. The transfected chTERT RNAs were expressed by the RNA polymerase machinery of the MDCC-MSB1 cells. mRNA expression in transfected MDCC-MSB1 cells was detected using real-time PCR. After transfection, telomerase activity was monitored via a modified telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay, and cell cycle analysis was performed using a flow cytometer. At 72 h after transfection, chTERT expression was considerably reduced in cells transfected with shRNA; the highest inhibition rate was 89%. Compared with the control group, telomerase activity was significantly reduced and the cells failed to progress to S phase. shRNA effectively reduced telomerase activity and prohibited the transition of MDCC-MSB1 cells from G2/M to S phase.

[Relationship between serum adiponectin and bone mineral density in preterm infants]

OBJECTIVE

To examine serum adiponectin level in preterm infants and to evaluate the relationship between serum adiponectin and bone mineral density in preterm infants.

METHODS

Seventy-two appropriate-for-gestational-age neonates were classified into three groups according to their gestational ages: early preterm (31-33(+6) weeks, 13 cases), late preterm (34-36(+6) weeks, 16 cases), and full-term (37-42 weeks, 43 cases). Venous blood was collected at one week of their life to measure serum adiponectin concentration. During the period, omnisense ultrasound bone sonometer was applied to measure speed of sound (SOS) of the left tibia.

RESULTS

The median of tibia SOS in the early preterm group was significantly lower than in the late preterm and full term groups (P<0.05), and the median of tibia SOS in the late preterm group was lower than in the full-term group (P<0.05). Serum adiponectin level was lowest in the early preterm group, and the full-term group had the highest serum adiponectin level. Serum adiponectin level was positively correlated with tibia SOS in preterm infants (r=0.664, P<0.05). According to the result of multivariate linear stepwise regression analysis, serum adiponectin and birth weight were independent predictor of tibia SOS in preterm infants.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum adiponectin level is lower in preterm infants than that in full-term infants. There is a positive correlation between serum adiponectin and bone mineral density in preterm infants.

A and MdMYB1 allele-specific markers controlling apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.) skin color and suitability for marker-assisted selection

Pre-selection for fruit skin color at the seedling stage would be highly advantageous, with marker-assisted selection offering a potential method for apple pre-selection. A and MdMYB1 alleles are allele-specific DNA markers that are potentially associated with apple skin color, and co-segregate with the Rf and Rni loci, respectively. Here, we assessed the potential application of these 2 alleles for marker-assisted breeding across 30 diverse cultivars and 2 apple seedling progenies. The red skin color phenotype was usually associated with the MdMYB1-1 allele and A(1) allele, respectively, while the 2 molecular markers provided approximately 91% predictability in the 'Fuji' x 'Cripps Pink' and 'Fuji' x 'Gala' progenies. The results obtained from the 30 cultivars and 2 progenies were consistent for the 2 molecular markers. Hence, the results supported that Rf and Rni could be located in a gene cluster, or even correspond to alleles of the same gene. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that red/yellow dimorphism is controlled by a monogenic system, with the presence of the red anthocyanin pigmentation being dominant. In addition, our results supported that the practical utilization of the 2 function markers to efficiently and accurately select red-skinned apple cultivars in apple scion breeding programs.

Molecular cloning and characterization of the pseudorabies virus UL31 gene

We amplified a 816-bp sequence of the UL31 gene from the pseudorabies virus (PRV) Becker strain genome. Evidence that this was the UL31 gene was confirmed by cloning and sequencing. The PRV UL31 gene encodes a putative protein of 271-amino acid residues, which was designated the UL31 protein. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that PRV UL31 contains a conserved PHA03328 domain, closely related with the herpes virus nuclear egress lamina protein UL31 family and highly conserved among counterparts encoded by herpes UL31 genes. Nucleic acid sequence and amino acid sequence alignments demonstrated that PRV UL31 has a relatively higher homology with UL31 homologous proteins of subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae than other subfamilies. In addition, phylogenetic analysis showed that PRV UL31 has a close evolutionary relationship with members of the subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae, especially bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), BoHV-5, equine herpesvirus 4 (EHV-4), EHV-9 and EHV-1. Antigen prediction demonstrated that several potential B-cell epitopes are located in PRV UL31. Additionally, secondary structure and three-dimension structure prediction revealed that PRV UL31 predominantly consists of α-helix. Taken together, these results provide insight on the function and mechanism of UL31 during PRV infection.

Experimental observation of ferrielectricity in multiferroic DyMn2O5

One of the major breakthroughs associated with multiferroicity in recent years is the discovery of ferroelectricity generated by specific magnetic structures in some magnetic insulating oxides such as rare-earth manganites RMnO3 and RMn2O5. An unresolved issue is the small electric polarization. Relatively large electric polarization and strong magnetoelectric coupling have been found in those manganites of double magnetic ions: magnetic rare-earth R ion and Mn ion, due to the strong R-Mn (4f-3d) interactions. DyMn2O5 is a representative example. We unveil in this work the ferrielectric nature of DyMn2O5, in which the two ferroelectric sublattices with opposite electric polarizations constitute the ferrielectric state. One sublattice has its polarization generated by the symmetric exchange striction from the Mn-Mn interactions, while the polarization of the other sublattice is attributed to the symmetric exchange striction from the Dy-Mn interactions. We present detailed measurements on the electric polarization as a function of temperature, magnetic field, and measuring paths. The present experiments may be helpful for clarifying the puzzling issues on the multiferroicity in DyMn2O5 and other RMn2O5 multiferroics.

Effects of exogenous 5-aminolevulinic acid on PIP1 and NIP aquaporin gene expression in seedlings of cucumber cultivars subjected to salinity stress

Aquaporins play a direct role in plant water relation under salt stress, but the effects of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) on aquaporin gene expression in salt-treated plants remain unknown. This study investigated the potential effects of exogenous ALA (50 mg/dm3) on aquaporin expression levels under salt stress (75 mM NaCl) in the salt-sensitive (Jinchun No.4) and the relatively salt-tolerant cucumber (Jinyou No.1) seedlings. The expressions of cucumber PIP aquaporin gene (CsPIP1:1) and cucumber NIP aquaporin gene (CsNIP) were analyzed in 20-day-old seedling leaves at 2, 4, 8, 16, and 24 h after ALA treatment. After treatment with saline alone and ALA alone, CsPIP1:1 and CsNIP gene expression levels in the 2 cucumber cultivars increased to maximum at 2 h. The aquaporin gene expression in salt-treated cucumber seedling leaves was considerably higher than that in leaves subjected to exogenous ALA. Further, the aquaporin expression levels in Jinchun No.4 were higher than those in Jinyou No.1, reaching 5.20- and 2-fold induction levels, respectively. After treatment with both ALA and NaCl, the CsNIP gene expression was downregulated in both the cucumber cultivars, while that of CsPIP1:1 decreased at 2 h and then increased to 3.8-fold in Jinchun No.4. In Jinyou No.1, CsPIP1:1 gene expression gradually increased to 2.3-fold at 4 h, followed by a decline in expression. The results indicated that ALA might delay and counteract the upregulated expression of CsPIP1:1 and CsNIP genes in cucumber seedlings under NaCl stress. Thus, salt tolerance of cucumber seedlings might be enhanced by ALA application.

Molecular characterization of the pseudorabies virus UL2 gene

A 948-bp sequence of the UL2 gene was amplified from the pseudorabies virus (PRV) Becker strain genome using polymerase chain reaction, and the gene identity was confirmed through further cloning and sequencing. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that the PRV UL2 gene encodes a putative polypeptide with 315-amino acid residues. Its encoding protein, designated UL2, has a conserved uracil-DNA glycosylase (UDG)_F1 domain, which is closely related to the herpesvirus UDG family and is highly conserved among its counterparts encoded by UDG genes. Multiple nucleic acid and amino acid sequence alignments suggested that the product of PRV UL2 has a relatively higher homology with UL2-like proteins of Alphaherpesvirinae than that of other subfamilies of Herpesviridae. In addition, phylogenetic analysis showed that PRV UL2 had a close evolutionary relationship with members of Alphaherpesvirinae, especially members of the genus Varicellovirus of bovine herpesvirus 1 and bovine herpesvirus 5. Antigen prediction indicated the presence of several potential B-cell epitopes in PRV UL2. In addition, secondary structure and 3-dimensional structure prediction revealed that PRV UL2 consisted predominantly of an α-helix. Taken together, these results provide molecular biological insight for the further study of the function and mechanism of UL2 during PRV infection.

[Relationship between bone turnover markers and bone sound of speed in appropriate-for-gestational-age neonates]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation of gestational age (GA) with carboxyterminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PICP), deoxypyridinoline (DPD), and bone sound of speed (SOS) in appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) neonates, as well as the relationship between bone turnover markers and bone SOS.

METHODS

Sixty-five AGA neonates were included in the study. The neonates were divided into three groups: preterm infant (GA ≤3 4 weeks, 14 cases), late preterm infant (34 weeks<GA<37 weeks, 13 cases), and full-term infant (GA ≥ 37 weeks, 38 cases). Birth weight and length were measured in all cases, and Ponderal index (PI) was used to estimate their nutritional status. Venous blood was collected within 7 days after birth to measure blood PICP concentration. Urine was collected to measure urinary DPD and creatinine (Cr) levels. Omnisense 7000P ultrasound bone sonometer was applied to measure the SOS of the left tibia in all cases within 7 days after birth.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in GA (F=140.199, P<0.001), birth weight (F=47.042, P<0.001), birth length (F=46.877, P<0.001), and PI (F=11.898, P<0.001) between the three groups; the higher the GA, the higher the birth weigh, birth length, and PI. There were significant differences in PICP (F=30.384, P<0.001), DPD/Cr (F=21.761, P<0.001), and SOS (F=20.052, P<0.001) between the three groups; the higher the GA, the lower the PICP and DPD/Cr and the higher the bone SOS. PICP and DPD/Cr were negatively correlated with GA, birth weight and bone SOS (P<0.01), while bone SOS was positively correlated with GA and birth weight (P<0.01), which still held true after adjustment for GA and birth weight.

CONCLUSIONS

Among AGA neonates, bone turnover markers are negatively correlated with GA, birth weight and bone SOS. High bone turnover is bad for bone health in AGA neonates.