[Rhabditis axei found in urine routine examination: a case report]

Rhabditis axei is a free-living nematode, which can occasionally invade into humans through drinking and contacting wastewater. It is usually parasitic in the digestive and urinary systems, causing the disease of rhabditelliasis axei. This paper reports a case of R. axei infection found in the urine routine examination.

Genetic parameter estimates for body conformation traits using composite index, principal component, and factor analysis

Information about genetic parameters is population specific and it is crucial for designing animal breeding programs and predicting response to selection. This study was carried out to estimate the genetic parameters for 23 body conformation traits of 45,517 Chinese Holstein reared in Eastern China from 1995 to 2017 with the Bayesian inference method using a linear animal mixed model. The methods to integrate these traits included (1) using the composite index from the Dairy Association of China and (2) applying principal component analysis and factor analysis to explore the relationship between the conformation traits. Estimates of heritability using the composite index were low (0.04; feet and legs) to moderate (0.23; body capacity). Strong genetic correlations were observed between the individual body conformation traits. Both principal components (1 to 7; eigenvalues ≥ 1) and latent factors (1 to 7; eigenvalues ≥ 1) explained 60.37% of total variability. Principal component 1 and factor 1 accounted for the traits that are usually associated with milk production. Moderate to low heritability were estimated through multi-trait analysis for principal components (from 0.07 to 0.21) and latent factors (from 0.07 to 0.23). Genetic correlations among the 2 multivariate techniques are typically lower compared with the one existing among the measured traits. Results from these analyses suggest the possibility of using both principal component analysis and factor analysis in morphological evaluation, simplifying the information given by the body conformation traits into new variables that could be useful for the genetic improvement of the Chinese Holstein population. This information could also be used to avoid analyzing large number of correlated traits, thereby improving precision and reducing computation burdens to analyze large and complex data.

Precision Measurement of the Branching Fractions of η^{'} Decays

Based on a sample of (1310.6±7.0)×10^{6}J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector, we present measurements of J/ψ and η^{'} absolute branching fractions using the process J/ψ→γη^{'}. By analyzing events where the radiative photon converts into an e^{+}e^{-} pair, the branching fraction for J/ψ→γη^{'} is measured to be (5.27±0.03±0.05)×10^{-3}. The absolute branching fractions of the five dominant decay channels of the η^{'} are then measured for the first time and are determined to be B(η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-})=(29.90±0.03±0.55)%, B(η^{'}→ηπ^{+}π^{-})=(41.24±0.08±1.24)%, B(η^{'}→ηπ^{0}π^{0})=(21.36±0.10±0.92)%, B(η^{'}→γω)=(2.489±0.018±0.074)%, and B(η^{'}→γγ)=(2.331±0.012±0.035)%, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second systematic.

Five-year survival outcomes for patients with advanced melanoma treated with pembrolizumab in KEYNOTE-001

BACKGROUND

Pembrolizumab demonstrated robust antitumor activity and safety in the phase Ib KEYNOTE-001 study (NCT01295827) of advanced melanoma. Five-year outcomes in all patients and treatment-naive patients are reported herein. Patients whose disease progressed following initial response and who received a second course of pembrolizumab were also analyzed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients aged ≥18 years with previously treated or treatment-naive advanced/metastatic melanoma received pembrolizumab 2 mg/kg every 3 weeks, 10 mg/kg every 3 weeks, or 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks until disease progression, intolerable toxicity, or patient/investigator decision to withdraw. Kaplan-Meier estimates of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated. Objective response rate and PFS were based on immune-related response criteria by investigator assessment (data cut-off, September 1, 2017).

RESULTS

KEYNOTE-001 enrolled 655 patients with melanoma; median follow-up was 55 months. Estimated 5-year OS was 34% in all patients and 41% in treatment-naive patients; median OS was 23.8 months (95% CI, 20.2-30.4) and 38.6 months (95% CI, 27.2-not reached), respectively. Estimated 5-year PFS rates were 21% in all patients and 29% in treatment-naive patients; median PFS was 8.3 months (95% CI, 5.8-11.1) and 16.9 months (95% CI, 9.3-35.5), respectively. Median response duration was not reached; 73% of all responses and 82% of treatment-naive responses were ongoing at data cut-off; the longest response was ongoing at 66 months. Four patients [all with prior response of complete response (CR)] whose disease progressed during observation subsequently received second-course pembrolizumab. One patient each achieved CR and partial response (after data cut-off). Treatment-related AEs (TRAEs) occurred in 86% of patients and resulted in study discontinuation in 7.8%; 17% experienced grade 3/4 TRAE.

CONCLUSIONS

This 5-year analysis of KEYNOTE-001 represents the longest follow-up for pembrolizumab to date and confirms the durable antitumor activity and tolerability of pembrolizumab in advanced melanoma.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01295827.

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}.

TUG1 promotes the development of prostate cancer by regulating RLIM

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the specific role of Taurine up-regulated gene 1 (TUG1) in the development of prostate cancer (PCa), and to explore its underlying mechanism.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The serum level of TUG1 in healthy subjects, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients and PCa patients was detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). The correlation between TUG1 expression and clinical indexes of PCa patients was analyzed. TUG1 expression in PCa cells and human normal prostate cells was determined by qRT-PCR as well. Overexpression or knockdown of TUG1 was achieved by liposomal transfection. Subsequently, the regulatory effects of TUG1 on the proliferative and migratory capacities of DU145 cells were accessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, colony formation assay and transwell assay, respectively. An online software was used to predict whether RLIM could be regulated by TUG1, which was further verified by qRT-PCR. After RLIM knockdown in DU145 cells, the proliferative and migratory capacities were also determined. Finally, Western blot was conducted to determine relative protein expressions in the TGF-β1/Smad pathway after altering TUG1 expression in DU145 cells.

RESULTS

TUG1 was highly expressed in serum samples of PCa patients when compared with healthy subjects and BPH patients. Besides, TUG1 expression in PCa patients with Gleason ≥ 7 was significantly higher than those with Gleason < 7. Meanwhile, TUG1 expression in PCa patients was remarkably higher than that of BPH patients at the PSA grey zone (4-10 ng/mg). ROC curves indicated that TUG1 might be a crucial hallmark to distinguish PCa patients from BPH patients and healthy subjects. The overexpression of TUG1 markedly promoted the proliferative and migratory capacities of DU145 cells. However, knockdown of TUG1 obtained the opposite results. QRT-PCR confirmed that TUG1 was positively correlated with RLIM at the mRNA level. RLIM knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferative and migratory capacities of DU145 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of TUG1 in DU145 cells markedly down-regulated TGF-β1 and p-Smad2, whereas up-regulated p-Smad7.

CONCLUSIONS

TUG1 is highly expressed in peripheral blood of PCa patients, which can serve as a potential diagnostic marker for PCa. The overexpression of TUG1 promotes the proliferative and migratory capacities of PCa cells. Furthermore, TUG1 promotes the development of PCa by regulating RLIM through the TGF-β1/Smad pathway.

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.

[Analysis of characteristics and influencing factors of fine particulate matters and submicron particulate matters in printing shop]

Objective: To analyze the physical characteristics of fine particulate matters (PM(2.5)) and submicron particulate matters (PM(1)), and investigate the factors influencing the emission peak of printer particles. Methods: A 12-hour particle concentration monitoring for PM(2.5) and PM(1) was conducted in a printing shop on January 5(th), 2018. PM(2.5) in the air was analyzed after the monitoring process to figure out morphological characteristics and element composition of printer particles. Besides, experiments were carried out in an enclosed space to detect the number concentration peaks of PM(1) during every printing process. Influencing factors investigated in this study were printer types, toner coverages and interval time between different printing processes. Results: The 12-hour particles concentration monitoring showed that the number concentration of PM(1) and the mass concentration of PM(2.5) were 7.510×10(4) pt/cm(3) and 96.85 μg/m(3). The diameter of most PM(2.5) was less than 100 nm, with a fractal dimension of 2.591. Most PM(2.5) appeared as regular spheres with typical agglomeration phenomenon, while some were in rhabditiform or irregular shapes. Element analysis showed that PM(2.5) was mainly composed of C, O, Si, Ca, with less metallic element. The PM(1) emission peak values of three printers were 3.60×10(4), 3.43×10(4), 0.31×10(4) pt/cm(3), respectively and the difference was not statistically significant (χ(2)=5.42, P>0.05). When the page coverage rate was 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 10%, 20% and 50%, the PM(1) emission peak value of printer A was 6.74×10(4), 4.62×10(4), 3.82×10(4), 2.82×10(4), 1.00×10(4) and 1.08×10(4) pt/cm(3), and the difference was also not statistically significant (χ(2)=7.01, P>0.05). The natural logarithm of PM(1) emission peak value in printing work was associated with the resting time before printing and the change value of heating roller temperature (r value was 0.83 and 0.89, respectively, all P values<0.05). Conclusion: PM(2.5) and PM(1) in the printing shop stayed at a high level. Particles appeared as various shapes and element compositions were complex. The temperature change of heating roller was one of most important factors that lead to the increased number concentration peak of PM(1).

[A cohort study on the association between dynamics of thyroid volume and the changes of physical growth as well as the comparison of different thyroid volume indexes in school-aged children]

Objectives: To investigate the association between the dynamics of thyroid volume and the changes of physical growth in school-aged children as well as to compare the applicability of different thyroid volume indexes, so as to explore more reliable methods for the assessment of thyroid volume. Methods: In October 2012, a multi-stage cluster sampling method was used to select a primary school in Minhang district of Shanghai, Haimen city of Jiangsu province and Yuhuan city of Zhejiang province, respectively. In these areas, a total number of 784 students aged 8-10 years were enrolled in the cohort. Demographic data was collected, while height and weight were measured, with BMI and body surface area (BSA) were calculated. Thyroid volume was examined by B-ultrasonography. Height volume index (HVI), weight and height volume index (WHVI), BMI volume index (BMIV) and BSA volume index (BSAV) were all applied to correct the thyroid volume. All students were followed up, one year later. Results: A total of 769 students with complete data on thyroid volume and physical growth were enrolled, including 378 boys (49.16%) and 391 girls (50.84%). Thyroid volume showed an increase with age, while growth of thyroid volume reduced with the increase of age (P<0.001). The thyroid volume showed a correlation with the changes of physical growth. The growth of height appeared as the dominant influencing factor for thyroid volume growth in those aged 8 and 10 years (P<0.05), while the growth of weight, BMI and BSA were all influencing factors for thyroid volume on students aged 9 years (P<0.05). Conclusions: Thyroid volume in school-aged children was a factor not only associated with age but also with physical growth which had not been considered in the currently used criteria. The inclusion of items as iodine intake, age, physical growth into the thyroid volume indexes seemed to be more reliable, in practice. For the assessment of goiter, HVI for students aged 8 and 10 years and BMIV for students aged 9 years might serve as better indicators.

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.

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.

Computer-assisted osteotomy guides and pre-bent titanium plates improve the planning for correction of facial asymmetry

This study investigated the surgical outcomes and accuracy of computer-assisted osteotomy guides and pre-bent titanium plates in the treatment of patients with facial asymmetry. Thirteen patients with facial asymmetry undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were included. Virtual simulation of Le Fort I osteotomy, sagittal split ramus osteotomy, and genioplasty, if needed, was conducted on the preoperative three-dimensional model. Computer-assisted osteotomy guides and pre-bent titanium plates were produced and used in the actual operation. The postoperative outcome was assessed for facial symmetry and surgical accuracy. All patients were followed up for at least 18 months and their level of satisfaction was investigated. Use of the computer-assisted osteotomy guides and pre-bent titanium plates was successful in all patients. Maxillary canting, mandibular ramus inclination, and mandibular length were corrected on both sides postoperatively. Superimposition of the surgical simulation and postoperative images demonstrated favourable accuracy. Quantitative analysis revealed a mean linear difference of <0.60mm in the maxilla and 1.57mm in the mandible. All patients were satisfied with the surgical outcome; there were no complications or cases of relapse during follow-up. The application of computer-assisted osteotomy guides and pre-bent titanium plates achieved favourable outcomes and accuracy, improving planning for the correction of facial asymmetry.

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}.

Inside-Out 3D Reversible Ion-Triggered Shape-Morphing Hydrogels

Shape morphing is a critical aptitude for the survival of organisms and is determined by anisotropic tissue composition and directional orientation of micro- and nanostructures within cell walls, resulting in different swelling behaviors. Recent efforts have been dedicated to mimicking the behaviors that nature has perfected over billions of years. We present a robust strategy for preparing 3D periodically patterned single-component sodium alginate hydrogel sheets cross-linked with Ca²⁺ ions, which can reversibly deform and be retained into various desirable inside-out shapes as triggered by biocompatible ions (Na⁺/Ca²⁺). By changing the orientations of the patterned microchannels or triggering with Na⁺/Ca²⁺ ions, various 3D twisting, tubular, and plant-inspired architectures can be facilely programmed. Not only can the transformation recover their initial shapes reversibly, but also it can keep the designated shapes without continuous stimuli. These inside-out 3D reversible ion-triggered hydrogel transformations shall inspire more attractive applications in tissue engineering, biomedical devices, and soft robotics fields.

Erratum: Author Correction: RhMYB108, an R2R3-MYB transcription factor, is involved in ethylene- and JA-induced petal senescence in rose plants

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1038/s41438-019-0221-8.].

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.

[Analysis of antimicrobial resistance and risk factors of community-onset methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus infection]

Objective: To analyze risk factors and drug resistance of community-onset methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (CO-MRSA) infection through the investigation of patients infected with CO-MRSA. Methods: The clinical data of 97 cases infected with community-onset staphylococcus aureus (COSA) was collected in this hospital from July 2016 to June 2017. Epidemiological survey method and the variables were determined according to expert consultation, literature and practical work experience. Results: Among 97 patients infected with COSA, the diagnosis rate of CO-MRSA was 21.65%(21/97). The drug sensitivity results showed that: CO-MRSA was high resistant to erythromycin, tetracycline and clindamycin, and the drug resistance rate exceeded 50%. Multiple variables were analyzed by Logistic regression. The usage of antimicrobial agents in the past three months and the history of hospitalization within one year were the independent risk factors. The MRSA infection rate was 57.89%(11/19) of the persons who had taken antibacterial agents in the recent three months.The MRSA infection rate was 48.28%(14/29) of the persons who had been hospitalized in the past one year. OR value of two risk factors was respectively 10.006(95%CI: 2.200-45.519, P=0.030) and 11.519(95%CI: 2.405-55.177, P=0.002). Conclusions: Most COSA is sensitive to methicillin, but CO-MRSA is multidrug resistant and has more risk factors. The clinicians should reasonably use the antibacterial agents according to the drug sensitivity in order to prevent the occurrence of multidrug resistant MRSA.

[Epidemiological features of adult chronic kidney diseases in a community-based population in Songjiang district, Shanghai]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and associated factors of chronic kidney diseases (CKD) in adult residents living in a community of Songjiang district, Shanghai. Methods: A total of 9 257 residents aged 20-75 years old in Xinqiao township of Songjiang district were selected by random cluster sampling. All the participants were interviewed to complete a set of personal questionnaire and undergo physical examinations. Urine and blood tests including markers of kidney damage and related associated factors with CKD, were carried out. Results: Eligible data from 8 207 subjects were enrolled in the study. After adjustment for age and gender, the prevalence of CKD was 8.4% (95%CI: 7.8%-9.0%), with majority of the patients (76.5%) appeared in the early stage (Ⅰ and Ⅱ) of the disease. The prevalence of CKD increased with age and higher prevalence was seen in females than in males (P<0.001). Results from logistic regression analysis showed that factors as: being elderly or female, having hypertension, hyperuricemia, and hyperlipidemia were all independently associated with CKD. Conclusions: The prevalence of CKD appeared relatively high in adult residents of Xinqiao township, Songjiang district where CKD had become a public health problem. Factors as: being female or elderly, hypertension, hyperuricemia, and hyperlipidemia were found to be associated with CKD. Our findings suggested that early prevention and control on CKD to reduce the incidence of end-stage renal diseases and related complications had called for more urgent attention.

Capacity of a body shape index and body roundness index to identify diabetes mellitus in Han Chinese people in Northeast China: a cross-sectional study

AIM

To assess the capacity of a body shape index and body roundness index to identify people with diabetes mellitus and those with prediabetes, and to determine whether a body shape index and/or body roundness index is superior to the traditional overall adiposity index, BMI, in Han Chinese people in Northeast China.

METHODS

A total of 15 078 participants were enrolled from Jilin province in 2012 using a multi-stage stratified random cluster sampling method. Demographic data were collected, and anthropometric indices and biochemical indices were measured. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to compare the validity of each anthropometric index, and the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was calculated for each anthropometric index.

RESULTS

Body roundness index had the highest areas under the receiver-operating curve for prediabetes, diagnosed diabetes and undiagnosed diabetes in both men and women (all P<0.01). The optimum threshold values for body roundness index for prediabetes, undiagnosed diabetes and diagnosed diabetes, respectively, were 2.8, 3.7 and 3.3 in men, and 3.4, 3.8 and 3.6 in women. The cumulative proportions of prediabetes, undiagnosed diabetes and diagnosed diabetes identified by the optimum threshold values of body roundness index were 79.2%, 67.5% and 77.0% (82.3%, 62.5% and 75.3% in men; 74.6%, 74.9% and 78.3% in women), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI, a body shape index and body roundness index may identify the presence of diabetes. Among the three anthropometric indices, BMI had the weakest association with diabetes. Body roundness index is an alternative index for assessing diabetes in Han Chinese people in Northeast China.

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.

[Comparison of swept source anterior segment optical coherence tomography and ultrasound biomicroscopy in measurement of anterior chamber depth and anterior chamber angle data in age-related cataract patients]

Objective: To explore the difference and agreement in the measurement of anterior chamber depth (ACD) and anterior chamber angle data in age-related cataract patients between swept source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (SS-AS-OCT) and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM). Methods: A prospective study. Forty-five eyes from 45 age-related cataract patients were selected at Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University from November to December 2016. There were 23 males and 22 females aged (51±19) years. SS-AS-OCT and UBM were used to measure the ACD, angle opening distance (AOD 500) and trabecular-iris angle (TIA 500). The paired samples t-test and Pearson linear correlation were used for statistical analysis, and the Bland-Altman analysis was used to evaluate the measurement consistency of the two tools. Results: The ACD measured by SS-AS-OCT and UBM was (2.750±0.544) mm and (2.775±0.531) mm, respectively, the difference was statistically significant (t=2.109, P=0.040), and the measurement results were positively correlated (r=0.989, P<0.001). In the nasal, temporal, upper and lower positions, the AOD 500 and TIA 500 values measured by SS-AS-OCT and UBM had a significant difference [AOD 500: (0.451±0.201) mm vs.(0.421±0.194) mm, (0.499±0.229) mm vs. (0.465±0.207) mm, (0.390±0.215) mm vs. (0.355±0.208) mm, (0.441±0.226) mm vs. (0.423±0.215) mm, t=4.262, 4.350, 5.355, 4.415; TIA 500: 39.587°±14.698°vs. 36.944°±13.790°, 42.149°±14.138°vs. 40.289°±13.041°, 36.482°±15.887°vs. 35.600°±15.215°, 38.504°±14.805°vs. 36.818°±14.931°, t=5.131, 4.658, 4.174, 5.731; all P<0.001] and a significant linear correlation (AOD 500: r=0.971, 0.975, 0.979, 0.973; TIA 500: r=0.972, 0.957, 0.956, 0.970; all P<0.001). The Bland-Altman method showed that the two modalities had comparable results for the ACD, AOD 500 and TIA 500 (2.22%-6.67% of the measured value outside the 95% consistency boundaries). Conclusion: SS-OCT and UBM show a good agreement in the measurement of ACD and anterior chamber angle data in age-related cataract patients, though there is difference between them in measurement results. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2018, 54: 678-682).

KLF11 promotes gastric cancer invasion and migration by increasing Twist1 expression

Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of global cancer-related death. The incidence and mortality rates of gastric cancer in China are second and third ranked in all forms of malignant tumors. Krüppel-like factor11 (KLF11) is a member of the KLF family, and previous studies have shown it significantly influences epithelial ovarian, pancreatic and liver cancer proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. However, the expression and some biological functions of KLF11 in GC are still unclear. We therefore collected and analyzed the mRNA and protein expressions of KLF11 in 59 paired gastric cancer tissues and matched healthy gastric tissue samples. We then investigated the KLF 11 biological functions and potential mechanisms in BGC823 and HGC27 gastric cancer cell lines. Analysis of KLF11 in gastric cancer specimens confirmed up-regulation compared to adjacent healthy gastric tissues, and similar results were evident in the GC cell lines. Ectopic expression of KLF11 was significantly associated with GC cell invasion and migration. KLF11 functions were most effective in Twist1 expression and knockdown, and also in KLF11 up-regulation which was accompanied by corresponding change in Twist1 expression; but these effects were inhibited when KLF11 was silenced by the small interfering RNA (siRNA). The relative Twist1 promoter region activity increased gradually with increasing KLF11 plasma, and KLF11 therefore has a critical role in regulating gastric cancer migration and invasion by increasing Twist1 expression. Finally, the results of this study should improve understanding of the KLF11 and EMT regulating network and KLF11's use as a potential therapeutic target in gastric cancer.

Applying the zero-inflated Poisson model with random effects to detect abnormal rises in school absenteeism indicating infectious diseases outbreak

Records of absenteeism from primary schools are valuable data for infectious diseases surveillance. However, the analysis of the absenteeism is complicated by the data features of clustering at zero, non-independence and overdispersion. This study aimed to generate an appropriate model to handle the absenteeism data collected in a European Commission granted project for infectious disease surveillance in rural China and to evaluate the validity and timeliness of the resulting model for early warnings of infectious disease outbreak. Four steps were taken: (1) building a 'well-fitting' model by the zero-inflated Poisson model with random effects (ZIP-RE) using the absenteeism data from the first implementation year; (2) applying the resulting model to predict the 'expected' number of absenteeism events in the second implementation year; (3) computing the differences between the observations and the expected values (O-E values) to generate an alternative series of data; (4) evaluating the early warning validity and timeliness of the observational data and model-based O-E values via the EARS-3C algorithms with regard to the detection of real cluster events. The results indicate that ZIP-RE and its corresponding O-E values could improve the detection of aberrations, reduce the false-positive signals and are applicable to the zero-inflated data.

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.

[Follow-up study of 116 cases of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the treatment of cirrhotic portal hypertension]

Objective: To investigate the incidence rate of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) complications in the treatment of cirrhotic portal hypertension, and analyze the cause of complication to management methods. Methods: Data of 116 patients obtained from Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University were retrospectively analyzed. Portal venous pressure, routine blood test, coagulation test, liver and kidney function test, ammonia blood test, imaging and endoscopy reports were collected before and after procedure. The incidence rate of hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites and shunt dysfunctions were observed. Data were expressed as mean ± Standard deviation and analyzed by t-test. A chi-squared test was used for comparison between categorical variables. Results: The success rate of TIPS operation was 97.41% (113/116). Two patients underwent prompt TIPS procedure due to active bleeding. Bleeding was successfully stopped. Portal venous pressure of 113 patients decreased from (42.73 ± 7.64) cmH(2)O to (24.92 ± 7.60) cmH(2)O, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). Twenty cases were of hepatic encephalopathy. Preoperative level of Child-pugh class C patients was more susceptible to hepatic encephalopathy within 3 months after procedure than class A and B. After TIPS procedure, there were 22 cases of gastrointestinal bleeding, 18 cases of shunt dysfunctions and 26 cases of disease related death. Conclusion: Rational patient selection strategies can effectively reduce portal venous pressure, incidence of hepatic encephalopathy, improve mid-and long-term therapeutic effects, and provide opportunities for liver transplantation.

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.

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).

The AP2/ERF transcription factor CmERF053 of chrysanthemum positively regulates shoot branching, lateral root, and drought tolerance

We find that the DREB subfamily transcription factor, CmERF053, has a novel function to regulate the development of shoot branching and lateral root in addition to affecting abiotic stress. Dehydration-responsive element binding proteins (DREBs) are important plant transcription factors that regulate various abiotic stresses. Here, we isolated an APETALA2/ethylene-responsive factor (AP2/ERF) transcription factor from chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium 'Jinba'), CmERF053, the expression of which was rapidly up-regulated by main stem decapitation. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that it belongs to the A-6 group of the DREB subfamily, and the subcellular localization assay confirmed that CmERF053 was a nuclear protein. Overexpression of CmERF053 in Arabidopsis exhibited positive effects of plant lateral organs, which had more shoot branching and lateral roots than did the wild type. We also found that the expression of CmERF053 in axillary buds was induced by exogenous cytokinins. These results suggested that CmERF053 may be involved in cytokinins-related shoot branching pathway. In this study, an altered auxin distribution was observed during root elongation in the seedlings of the overexpression plants. Furthermore, overexpress CmERF053 gene could enhance drought tolerance. Together, these findings indicated that CmERF053 plays crucial roles in regulating shoot branching, lateral root, and drought stress in plant. Moreover, our study provides potential application value for improving plant productivity, ornamental traits, and drought tolerance.

Stable actively Q-switched single-frequency fiber laser at 1.5 μm based on self-injecting polarization modulation

A new technique for the realization of a stable Q-switched operation in a single-frequency fiber laser based on self-injecting polarization modulation is demonstrated, for the first time to the best of our knowledge. A piezoelectric fiber stretcher was utilized to introduce periodic stress-induced polarization changes. Then the modulation of polarization state transformed into Q switching by virtue of a designed distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) resonant cavity with polarizations loss anisotropy. Finally, a stable actively Q-switched single-frequency fiber laser at 1.5 μm with Gaussian-shape pulse output was achieved. We experimentally found that, the repetition frequency (several hundred kHz) coincided with the working frequency of the polarization modulation, and the pulse width (several hundred ns) reduced with the increasing of the modulating frequency, the modulating amplitude, as well as the pump power. This stable Q-switched single-frequency fiber laser is promising for applications in optical time-domain reflectometry, coherent Doppler wind radar, and optical coherent detection. More importantly, this novel Q-switched technology may be applicable to other DBR single-frequency fiber lasers.

[Effects of RhoA on the adherens junction of murine ameloblasts]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the regulation mechanism of RhoA signaling pathway during the enamel formation by using the EGFP-RhoA^{Dominant Negative} (EGFP-RhoA^DN) transgenic mice model, from the aspect of adherens junctions, and to provide a theory basis for mechanism of enamel development defects.

METHODS

The enamel thickness of mandibular first molars of EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice and wild type (WT) mice were observed by scanning electronic microscopy at 20 kV, and the enamel thickness of the distal face of the central cusp was measured at 10 locations via analysis by ImageJ (Rasband, 1997-2009). The enamel organs from mandibular first molars from postnatal-4-day (P4) EGFP-RhoA^DN mice and wild type mice were isolated, and the total RNA and protein were extracted from the epithelium of the enamel organs. The expression level of the adherens junctions components in ameloblasts layer of the postnatal-4-day EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice and wild type mice mandibular first molars were detected by real-time PCR and Western blot assay.

RESULTS

The EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice had decreased enamel thickness in their bilateral mandibular first molars versus those of control group (n=20), and enamel thickness was (84.60±0.20) μm vs. (106.24±0.24) μm, P<0.05. The protein expressions of E-cadherin, α-E-catenin and pan-cadherin in ameloblasts layer of postnatal-4-day EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice molars were down-regulated, and the protein level of β-catenin in ameloblasts layer of P4 EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice molars was up-regulated. The mRNA level of E-cadherin in ameloblasts layer of P4 EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice molars was down-regulated versus that of WT mice, and the gene expression of E-cadherin was 0.93±0.01 vs. 1.00±0.02, P<0.05. The mRNA level of β-catenin in ameloblasts layer of P4 EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice molars was up-regulated versus that of WT mice, and the gene expression of β-catenin was 1.23±0.03 vs. 1.00±0.05, P<0.05.

CONCLUSION

In the mandibular first molars of EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice, the enamel formation was disrupted and the adherens junctions of EGFP-RhoA^DN transgenic mice ameloblasts were implicated during amelogenesis. RhoA signaling pathway may play a critical role in enamel development by altering the adherens junctions in ameloblasts.

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.

Discovery of 4 exonic and 1 intergenic novel susceptibility loci for leprosy

Seven new risk coding variants have been identified through an exome-wide association study (EWAS), which studied the contributions of protein-coding variants to leprosy susceptibility. But some potential susceptibility loci were not studied in the previous EWAS study because of the project consideration. Seventeen unstudied potential susceptibility loci of the previous EWAS were validated in 3169 cases and 9814 controls in this study. Four disease-associated exonic loci were identified: rs671 in ALDH2 (P = 2.0 × 10^-20 , odds ratio [OR] = 1.35), rs13259978 in SLC7A2 (P = 1.74 × 10^-8 , OR = 1.28), rs925368 in GIT2 (P = 9.18 × 10^-17 , OR = 1.44), and rs75680863 in TCN2 (P = 8.37 × 10^-21 , OR = 0.74). Potentially implicating ZFP36L1 as a new susceptibility gene, 1 intergenic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs1465788 (P = 7.81 × 10^-6 , OR = 0.88), was also suggested to be associated with leprosy. A luciferase reporter assay showed that the rs1465788 risk allele notably decreased the transcription activity of the flanking sequence. These findings suggest the possible involvement of lipid metabolism, NF-κB homeostasis and macrophage antimicrobial pathways in leprosy pathogenesis.

Identification of eight new MHC-DPB1 alleles in the Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana)

We report here the identification of eight new Math-DPB1 alleles in the Tibetan macaques.

Global transcriptome analysis to identify critical genes involved in the pathology of osteoarthritis

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify key pathological genes in osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

We searched and downloaded mRNA expression data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of joint synovial tissues from OA and normal individuals. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were used to assess the function of identified DEGs. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and transcriptional factors (TFs) regulatory network were used to further explore the function of identified DEGs. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to validate the result of bioinformatics analysis. Electronic validation was performed to verify the expression of selected DEGs. The diagnosis value of identified DEGs was accessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

A total of 1085 DEGs were identified. KEGG pathway analysis displayed that Wnt was a significantly enriched signalling pathway. Some hub genes with high interactions such as USP46, CPVL, FKBP5, FOSL2, GADD45B, PTGS1, and ZNF423 were identified in the PPI and TFs network. The results of qRT-PCR showed that GADD45B, ADAMTS1, and TFAM were down-regulated in joint synovial tissues of OA, which was consistent with the bioinformatics analysis. The expression levels of USP46, CPVL, FOSL2, and PTGS1 in electronic validation were compatible with the bio-informatics result. CPVL and TFAM had a potential diagnostic value for OA based on the ROC analysis.

Conclusion

The deregulated genes including USP46, CPVL, FKBP5, FOSL2, GADD45B, PTGS1, ZNF423, ADAMTS1, and TFAM might be involved in the pathology of OA.

Cite this article: X. Zhang, Y. Bu, B. Zhu, Q. Zhao, Z. Lv, B. Li, J. Liu. Global transcriptome analysis to identify critical genes involved in the pathology of osteoarthritis. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:298–307. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.74.BJR-2017-0245.R1.