Responses of intestinal morphology, immunity, antioxidant status and cecal microbiota to the mixture of glycerol monolaurate and cinnamaldehyde in laying hens

This study was to determine the effects of the mixture of glycerol monolaurate and cinnamaldehyde (GCM) supplementation on the intestinal morphology, immunity, antioxidant status and cecal microbiota of laying hens. A total of 1,120 healthy laying hens (Jingfen-1 strain) at the age of 14 wk were randomly divided into 4 groups with 10 replicates of 28 layers in each and layers were fed diets containing 0 (control group), or 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg GCM for 12 wk. The results showed that dietary supplementation with GCM significantly increased intestinal villus height and villus height/crypt depth, duodenal villus area, total superoxide disumutase activities in the liver and jejunum, jejunal glutathione peroxidase activities while decreased duodenal and jejunal crypt depth, hydrogen peroxide content in the liver and jejunal malondialdehyde content of laying hens aging 28 wk (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, GCM addition significantly increased serum immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin M concentration of layers at the age of 20, 24, and 28 wk (P < 0.05). Moreover, it was observed in the 16S rRNA sequencing that the addition of GCM elevated the abundance and diversity of gut microbiota in laying hens. The predominant bacteria from each group were Bacteroidota and Firmicutes at the phylum level and Bacteroides and Lactobacillus were the dominant genera. The composition and structure of cecal microflora were changed by the addition of GCM to the diet of laying hens. In conclusion, the addition of GCM (500-1,000 mg/kg diet) can improve intestinal morphology, immune function, intestinal and liver antioxidant status and intestinal flora of laying hens, thereby improving intestinal digestion and absorption capacity. These findings provide a new way to further explore the mechanism of GCM improving intestinal health.

[Application of ultra-short echo time-T2* component analysis technology in monitoring morphological and biochemical changes of achilles tendon in amateur marathon athletes]

Objective: To explore the value of ultra-short echo time (UTE)-T₂* component analysis techniques in dynamic monitoring the morphological and biochemical changes in amateur marathon athletes' achilles tendon before and after the marathon. Methods: Twenty-nine amateur marathon runners were recruited between October 2020 and March 2021 in Zhuhai City, Guangdong Province, including 25 males and 4 females, aged from 24 to 50 (40±6) years old. All volunteers underwent bilateral achilles tendon MRI examination 1 week before the marathon, 48 hours after the race, and 1 month after the race. The shape and signal of the achilles tendon were evaluated by routine T1-weighted, proton density weighted with fat saturation sequence and different echo time (TE) UTE sequence, and the changes of achilles tendon after running was quantitatively analyzed by UTE-T2* sequence. The values of single-component analysis (T₂*_M), short T₂* components (T₂*_S), and long T₂* components (T₂*_L) and Fraction values were obtained using UTE-T₂* sequence. The value of the whole achilles tendon was measured on the sagittal images of achilles tendon, and the Achilles tendon was equally divided into three subregions [muscle-tendon junction (MTJ), middle (MID), and insertion (INS)]. The region of interest was delineated by two radiologists independently. The intra-group correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate the consistency of the data measured by two radiologists. Nonparametric Friedman M test was used to compare the differences of T₂*_M, T₂*_S, T₂*_L and Fraction values in different time points and different subregions. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare the difference between 48 h post-race and pre-race T₂*_S values (ΔT₂*_S) of different distance, different running posture, different pace and different amount of training, in which ΔT₂*_S equals the T₂*_S value of 48 h post-race minus the T₂*_S value of pre-race. Results: On the sequence of short TE (TE≤0.6 ms), achilles tendinopathy can manifest as scattered punctate hypointensity in areas of high signal intensity. The two radiologists showed a good consistency in measuring the T₂*_M, T₂*_S, T₂*_L and Fraction values of the achilles tendon, and the ICC values ​​were 0.96, 0.94, 0.83 and 0.94, respectively. The T₂*s values was significantly higher in the whole Achilles tendon, MTJ and MID segment at 48 h post-exercise compared to pre-exercise, and decreased after 1 month of exercise, [0.49 (0.45, 0.59) vs 0.54 (0.49, 0.59) vs 0.53 (0.49, 0.57), 0.48 (0.44, 0.54) vs 0.53 (0.47, 0.58) vs 0.50 (0.46, 0.57), 0.48 (0.43, 0.58) vs 0.54 (0.47, 0.59) vs 0.52 (0.46, 0.57); respectively, all P<0.05]. The changes in T₂*_M, T₂*_L and Fraction values are not statistically significant (all P>0.05). In different running gestures, the ΔT₂*_S of achilles tendon who using the postures of front-middle feet is higher than that using the postures of back feet (0.03(-0.05, 0.07) vs -0.03(-0.17, 0.11), P=0.001). Conclusion: The Bi-component analysis of UTE-T₂* technology is superior to single component analysis in monitoring the dynamic changes of achilles tendon before and after exercise, and T₂*_S is a more sensitive sequence to evaluate the subtle changes in the chemical composition of achilles tendon.

LncRNA NEAT1/miR-1224/KLF3 contributes to cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion in lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to detect the relationship between long-chain non-coding RNA (lncRNA) NEAT1 and microRNA-1224 (miR-1224) in lung cancer and to explore its underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression levels of lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-1224 in lung cancer tissues and cells were detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). The interaction between lncRNA NEAT1 with miR-1224, miR-1224, and KLF3 was detected by Dual-Luciferase Reporter Gene Assay. MTT 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and flow cytometry were used to detect the changes in the proliferative and apoptosis abilities of lung cancer cells after silencing lncRNA NEAT1 or up-regulating miR-1224, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with adjacent normal tissues, lncRNA NEAT1 was significantly up-regulated, while miR-1224 was significantly down-regulated in lung cancer tissues. LncRNA NEAT1 could specifically bind to the 3'UTR of miR-1224 and regulate its expression. The inhibition of lncRNA NEAT1 remarkably reduced the proliferation and enhanced the apoptosis of lung cancer cells. However, the upregulation of the expression of miR-1224 level could significantly inhibit proliferation and promote the apoptosis rate of lung cancer cells. Furthermore, miR-1224 could downregulate KLF3 expression by directly binding to its 3'UTR.

CONCLUSIONS

LncRNA NEAT1 can sponge the expression of miR-1224, thereby affecting the proliferation and apoptosis of lung cancer.

MiRNA-27a-3p promotes osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells through targeting ATF3

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate whether miRNA-27a-3p can promote osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs by targeting ATF3, thus alleviating osteoporosis symptoms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The serum levels of miRNA-27a-3p in osteoporosis patients (n=20) and normal controls (n=20) were detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) were subjected to osteogenic differentiation for 1, 3 and 7 days. Subsequently, mRNA levels of miRNA-27a-3p, ALP, and Bglap in hMSCs were determined by qRT-PCR. The regulatory effects of miRNA-27a-3p levels and the mRNA levels of ALP, Bglap, and Runx2 were detected. After the overexpression or knockdown of miRNA-27a-3p, we evaluated the changes in the osteogenic differentiation by alizarin red staining and ALP staining. Through Dual-Luciferase Reporter Gene Assay, we verified the binding relationship between miRNA-27a-3p and ATF3. Rescue experiments were finally conducted to prove whether miRNA-27a-3p regulated the osteogenic differentiation by targeting ATF3.

RESULTS

The serum level of miRNA-27a-3p remained lower in osteoporosis patients relative to controls. With the prolongation of osteogenic differentiation, the mRNA levels of miRNA-27a-3p, ALP, and Bglap gradually increased. The overexpression of miRNA-27a-3p upregulated mRNA and the protein levels of osteogenesis-related genes, increased ALP activity, and enhanced mineralization capacity. The knockdown of miRNA-27a-3p obtained the opposite trends. MiRNA-27a-3p could target ATF3, and the overexpression of ATF3 reversed the promotive effects of miRNA-27a-3p on osteogenic differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

MiRNA-27a-3p promotes the differentiation of hMSCs into osteoblasts by targeting ATF3, thus alleviating osteoporosis symptoms.

NGS-based profiling reveals a critical contributing role of somatic D-loop mtDNA mutations in HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis

BACKGROUND

Somatic mutations of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been extensively identified mainly by traditional Sanger sequencing technology in various cancer types. However, low detection sensitivity of traditional methods greatly limits the comprehensive profiling of mtDNA somatic mutations in cancers, especially in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Moreover, the functional roles of mtDNA mutation in HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis have not been systematically revealed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform was applied to profile the somatic mtDNA mutations of HCC and paired paratumor (non-HCC) tissues from a large cohort of 156 HBV-HCC patients.

RESULTS

Our data revealed the common existence of mtDNA mutation in both inflammatory and cancer tissues with significantly different mutation pattern. The mutation density (mutation number/region length) of D-loop region was much higher than that of other regions in both HCC and non-HCC tissues. Unexpectedly, the average mutation number in D-loop region of HCC tissues was significantly less than that of non-HCC tissues. In contrast, the heteroplasmy level of D-loop region mutations was significantly increased in HCC tissues, implying that the D-loop mutations might be positively selected in HCC tissues. Furthermore, our results indicated that the patients with D-loop mutations had a significantly lower mtDNA copy number and were more likely to relapse. In vitro experiments demonstrated that proliferation, invasion and metastasis ability of HCC cells with D-loop region mutations were significantly higher than those without D-loop region mutations.

CONCLUSION

These results emphasize the critical contributing role of somatic mtDNA D-loop mutations in HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis.

Observation of efficacy of TACE combined with HIFU on patients with middle-advanced liver cancer

OBJECTIVE

To study the efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in patients with middle-advanced liver cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 100 patients with middle-advanced liver cancer treated in our hospital from January 2015 to January 2018 were selected and randomly divided into TACE group (control group, n=50) and TACE combined with HIFU group (experimental group, n=50) according to different therapeutic regimens. The efficacy was observed after the operation, the blood was collected to detect the postoperative liver function indexes aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), the postoperative complications were observed. Also, the immune indexes cluster of differentiation 3+ (CD3+), CD4+, and CD8+ were determined. Moreover, the quality of life (QOL) score was compared between the two groups, the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were observed after the operation. Also, the changes in the levels of tumor markers α-L-fucosidase (AFU), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) were observed.

RESULTS

In experimental group, the levels of AST, ALT, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) after the operation were significantly decreased (p<0.05), while the postoperative efficacy was significantly superior to that in control group (p<0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications was significantly reduced (p<0.05), the levels of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and natural killer (NK) cells were markedly increased (p<0.05). Also, the QOL score was evidently better than that in control group (p<0.05) and the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5- year survival rates after the operation were evidently higher than those in control group (p<0.05). After treatment, the levels of AFU, AFP, CA19-9, and CEA were remarkably lower than those before treatment in both groups, while they were remarkably lower in experimental group than those in control group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

TACE combined with HIFU in the treatment of patients with middle-advanced liver cancer can restore the hepatic metabolism, enhance the immunity, improve the QOL, prolong the survival time of patients, and significantly reduce the tumor markers. Also, it has fewer adverse reactions and definite overall efficacy, which is worthy of popularization and application.

MMP-1 gene polymorphism in osteoporosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation of osteoporosis (OP) with matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) gene polymorphism.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 199 patients as observation group (OP) and 180 healthy subjects (control group) were enrolled in the study, and the general data, the expression levels of serum calcium, serum phosphate and MMP-1 were collected and determined. The bone mineral density was determined using a bone sonometer, and the method of TaqMan-MGB probe was adopted for the detection of gene polymorphism of MMP-1 rs494379.

RESULTS

The level of serum calcium and bone mineral density were lower in observation group than those in control group (p>0.05), while the levels of serum phosphate and MMP-1 were higher than those in control group (p>0.05). There were differences in rs494379 genotype and allele in MMP-1 gene between the two groups (p<0.05). In the analysis of the genetic model, the dominant models between the two groups were different (p<0.05), while there were no differences in the recessive model and additive model (p>0.05). The MMP-1 level was higher in rs494379 AA genotype than that in GG, GT genotype in MMP-1 gene.

CONCLUSIONS

Gene polymorphism of MMP-1 rs494379 has a correlation with the occurrence of OP.

Precise label-free leukocyte subpopulation separation using hybrid acoustic-optical chip

Leukocyte subpopulations contain crucial physiological information; hence, precise and specific leukocyte separation is very important for leukemia diagnosis and analysis. However, conventional centrifugation and immunofluorescence-based separation methods are inaccurate and inconvenient due to the overlapping cell size and density or complex marking processes. Herein, we report a new label-free technology for precise leukocyte subpopulation separation by synergy of acoustic and optical technologies. Standing surface acoustic wave (SSAW) solved the problem of gentle and precise focusing of cells in optical systems. In addition, SSAW was used for the separation of granulocytes, which have evident size distinction from other components. In case of lymphocytes and monocytes, which have overlap in size/density, optical force could distinguish them accurately based on the RI difference, with the convenience of acoustic pre-focusing. In this experiment, separation of three types of leukocyte subtypes with considerable throughput and purity was conducted, through which we obtained 99% pure lymphocytes, 98% pure monocytes, and 95% pure granulocytes. Experimental results prove that the device has robust ability in separating leukocyte phenotypes and have the advantages of being non-invasive, label-free and precise. In the future, this convenient hybrid method will be a potential powerful tool for auxiliary clinical diagnosis and analysis.

Efficient Capture and High Activity Release of Circulating Tumor Cells by Using TiO2 Nanorod Arrays Coated with Soluble MnO2 Nanoparticles

Effective capture and release of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) with high viability is still a challenge in medical research. We design a novel approach with efficient yield and high cell activity for the capture and release of CTCs. Our platform is based on TiO₂ nanorod arrays coated with transparent MnO₂ nanoparticles. We use hydrothermal synthesis to prepare TiO₂ nanorod arrays, the MnO₂ nanoparticles are fabricated through in situ self-assembly on the substrate to form a monolayer and etched by oxalic acid with low concentration at room temperature. Up to 92.9% of target cells are isolated from the samples using our capture system and the captured cells can be released from the platform, the saturated release efficiency is 89.9%. Employing lower than 2 × 10^-3 M concentration of oxalic acid to dissolve MnO₂, the viability of MCF-7 cancer cells exceed 90%. Such a combination of the two-dimensional and three-dimensional platforms provides a new approach isolate CTCs from patient blood samples.

A liquid thermal gradient refractive index lens and using it to trap single living cell in flowing environments

A gradient refractive index (GRIN) lens has a great potential for on-chip imaging and detection systems because of its flat surface with reduced defects. This paper reports a liquid thermal GRIN lens prepared using heat conduction between only one liquid, and uses it as a tunable optical tweezer for single living cell trapping in a flowing environment. This liquid GRIN lens consists of a trapezoidal region in the upper layer which is used to establish a GRIN profile by the heat conduction between three streams of benzyl alcohol with different temperatures, and subsequently a rhombus region in the lower layer with compensation liquids to form a steady square-law parabolic refractive index profile only in transverse direction. Simulations and experiments successfully show the real-time tunability of the focusing properties. The focal length can be modulated in the range of 500 μm with the minimum focal length of 430 μm. A considerable high enhancement factor achieves 5.4 whereas the full width at half maximum is 4 μm. The response time of the GRIN lens is about 20 ms. Based on this enhancement, tunable optical trapping for single human embryonic kidney 293 cell in the range of 280 μm is demonstrated by varying the focal length and working distance which is difficult for solid optical tweezers. The considerable quality of this liquid GRIN lens indicates on-chip applications especially in high quality optical imaging, detection and cells' handling.

Isolation and characterization of eighteen polymorphic microsatellite loci in Schizopygopsis younghusbandi Regan and cross-amplification in three other Schizothoracinae species

Eighteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from Schizopygopsis younghusbandi Regan and the characterization of these loci was assessed in 46 individuals collected from the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, China. The numberof alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 14. The expected heterozygosity and Shannon-Wiener diversity index ranged from 0.022 to 0.879 and from 0.059 to 2.313, respectively. The cross-species amplification and applicability of these loci were tested in three other Schizothoracinae species belonging to Schizothorax and Oxygymnocypris. These loci will be useful for the evaluation of genetic diversity and population genetic structure in S. younghusbandi and other related species.

Generation of Janus alginate hydrogel particles with magnetic anisotropy for cell encapsulation

A microfluidic approach for fabrication of Janus hydrogel particles with magnetic anisotropy is demonstrated. Using this technique, cells and magnetic beads (MBs) can be separately embedded in one hydrogel particle to maintain optical performance, and reduce the contact between cells and magnetic beads (nano- or submicron-particles). Alginate cell capsules prepared by this method can be easily controlled and manipulated by external magnetic fields and require no specific surface modification. Bio-degradability and super-paramagnetic properties of these hydrogel particles were also demonstrated experimentally.

MICA-STR, HLA-B haplotypic diversity and linkage disequilibrium in the Hunan Han population of southern China

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I chain-related gene A (MICA) is located 46 kb centromeric to HLA-B and encodes a stress-inducible protein. MICA allelic variation is thought to be associated with disease susceptibility and immune response to transplants. This study was aimed to investigate the haplotypic diversity and linkage disequilibrium between human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B and (GCT)(n) short tandem repeat in exon 5 of MICA gene (MICA-STR) in a southern Chinese Han population. Fifty-eight randomly selected nuclear families with 183 members including 85 unrelated parental samples were collected in Hunan province, southern China. HLA-B generic typing was performed by polymerase chain reaction-sequence-specific priming (PCR-SSP), and samples showing novel HLA-B-MICA-STR linkage were further typed for HLA-B allelic variation by high-resolution PCR-SSP. MICA-STR allelic variation and MICA gene deletion (MICA*Del) were detected by fluorescent PCR-size sequencing and PCR-SSP. Haplotype was determined through family segregation analysis. Statistical analysis was applied to the data of the 85 unrelated parental samples. Nineteen HLA-B specificities and seven MICA-STR allelic variants were observed in 85 unrelated parental samples, the most predominant of which were HLA-B*46, -B60, -B*13, and -B*15, and MICA*A5, MICA*A5.1 and MICA*A4, respectively. Genotype distributions of HLA-B, MICA-STR loci were consistent with Hardy-Weinberg proportions. The HLA-B-MICA-STR haplotypic phases of all 85 unrelated parental samples were unambiguously assigned, which contained 30 kinds of HLA-B, MICA-STR haplotypic combinations, nine of them have not been reported in the literature. Significant positive linkage disequilibria between certain HLA-B and MICA-STR alleles, including HLA-B*13 and MICA*A4, HLA-B*38 and MICA*A9, HLA-B*58 and MICA*A9, HLA-B*46 and MICA*A5, HLA-B*51 and MICA*A6, HLA-B*52 and MICA*A6, and HLA-B60 and MICA*A5.1, were observed. HLA-B*48 was linked to MICA*A5, MICA*A5.1 and MICA*Del. HLA-B*5801-MICA*A10 linkage was found in a family. Our data indicated a high degree of haplotypic diversity and strong linkage disequilibrium between MICA-STR and HLA-B in a southern Chinese Han population, the data will inform future studies on anthropology, donor-recipient HLA matching in clinical transplantation and HLA-linked disease association.

Frequent overexpression of cyclin D1 in sporadic pancreatic endocrine tumours

Pancreatic endocrine tumours (PETs) occur sporadically or are inherited as part of the multiple endocrine neoplasia type-1 syndrome. Little is known about the molecular events leading to these tumours. Cyclin D1, a key regulator of the G1/S transition of the cell cycle, is overexpressed in a variety of human cancers as well as certain endocrine tumours. We hypothesized that similar to other endocrine tumours, cyclin D1 is overexpressed in human sporadic PETs. Cyclin D1 protein overexpression was found in 20 of 31 PETs (65%) when compared with normal pancreatic tIssue. Furthermore, Northern blot analysis suggests that cyclin D1 up-regulation occurs at the post-transcriptional level in some PETs. Because the key cell growth signalling pathways p42/p44/ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase), p38/MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase), and Akt/PKB (protein kinase B) can regulate cyclin D1 protein expression in other cell types, pancreatic endocrine tumours were analysed with phospho-specific antibodies against the active forms of these proteins to elucidate a tIssue-specific regulatory mechanism of cyclin D1 in PETs. We found frequent activation of the p38/MAPK and Akt pathways, but down-regulation of the ERK pathway, in cyclin D1 overexpressing PETs. This study demonstrates that cyclin D1 overexpression is associated with human sporadic PET tumorigenesis, and suggests that this up-regulation may occur at the post-transcriptional level. These findings will direct future studies of PETs towards cell cycle dysregulation and the identification of key growth factor pathways involved in the formation of these tumours.

Ultrasonic transducers using electron-irradiated vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene copolymers

Single-element, planar transducers have been fabricated using electron-irradiated poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) 80/20 mol% copolymers with different electron dosage. Electrical field-induced strain response of copolymer film with 100 Mrad dosage has been studied at 5 kHz and the electrostrictive coefficient was calculated. The transmitting response of the air-backing and epoxy-backing transducers was evaluated with the application of high DC bias voltages. Clear ultrasonic amplitudes and high frequency spectrum (>20 MHz) were observed when driven from a standard ultrasonic voltage source through a decoupling circuit. It has also showed that larger generation of ultrasonic waves will be induced under high DC bias field, which is due to the increase of induced d(33) piezoelectric coefficient. Two different polar bias voltages, positive and negative, were applied to the transducers and inverse waveforms were received, which was coincident with the theoretical analysis of the strain response of electrostrictive film.

Body composition estimates from NHANES III bioelectrical impedance data

BACKGROUND

Body composition estimates for the US population are important in order to analyze trends in obesity, sarcopenia and other weight-related health conditions. National body composition estimates have not previously been available.

OBJECTIVE

To use transformed bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) data in sex-specific, multicomponent model-derived prediction formulae, to estimate total body water (TBW), fat-free mass (FFM), total body fat (TBF), and percentage body fat (%BF) using a nationally representative sample of the US population.

DESIGN

Anthropometric and BIA data were from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III; 1988-1994). Sex-specific BIA prediction equations developed for this study were applied to the NHANES data, and mean values for TBW, FFM, TBF and %BF were estimated for selected age, sex and racial-ethnic groups.

RESULTS

Among the non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, and Mexican-American participants aged 12-80 y examined in NHANES III, 15 912 had data available for weight, stature and BIA resistance measures. Males had higher mean TBW and FFM than did females, regardless of age or racial-ethnic status. Mean TBW and FFM increased from the adolescent years to mid-adulthood and declined in older adult age groups. Females had higher mean TBF and %BF estimates than males at each age group. Mean TBF also increased with older age groups to approximately 60 y of age after which it decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

These mean body composition estimates for TBW, FFM, TBF and %BF based upon NHANES III BIA data provide a descriptive reference for non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks and Mexican Americans in the US population.

Cumulative effects of cardiovascular disease risk factors on quality of life

OBJECTIVES

The Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to assess the quality of life for adults who differed in level of risk for cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

Subjects were 51 men and 80 women from southwestern Ohio between the ages of 20 and 86 years. Individuals level of risk was based on the culmination of four cardiovascular disease risk factors: hypertension (i.e., systolic BP>or=140 mmHg or diastolic BP>or= 90 mmHg), obesity (i.e., BMI>or=30), high cholesterol (i.e., total cholesterol>or=240 mg/dL), and presence/absence of smoking.

RESULTS

Each risk factor was analyzed independently and cumulatively for effects on the SF-36 dimensions (i.e., Physical Functioning, Role-Physical, Bodily Pain, General Health, Vitality, Social Functioning, Role-Emotional, Mental Health). The data suggested that quality of life impairment (indicated by lower scores on the SF-36 dimensions) increased as the number of cardiovascular disease risk factors an individual had increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiovascular disease risk factors unknown to the participants had differential effects on the SF-36 dimensions, and quality of life decreased as the number of risk factors individuals had increased.

Comparison of percent body fat estimates using air displacement plethysmography and hydrodensitometry in adults and children

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to compare estimates of body density and percentage body fat from air displacement plethysmography (ADP) to those from hydrodensitometry (HD) in adults and children and to provide a review of similar recent studies.

METHODS

Body density and percentage body fat (% BF) were assessed by ADP and HD on the same day in 87 adults aged 18-69 y (41 males and 46 females) and 39 children aged 8-17 y (19 males and 20 females). Differences between measured and predicted thoracic gas volumes determined during the ADP procedure and the resultant effects of those differences on body composition estimates were also compared. In a subset of 50 individuals (31 adults and 19 children), reliability of ADP was measured and the relative ease or difficulty of ADP and HD were probed with a questionnaire.

RESULTS

The coefficient of reliability between %BF on day 1 and day 2 was 96.4 in adults and 90.1 in children, and the technical error of measurement of 1.6% in adults and 1.8% in children. Using a predicted rather than a measured thoracic gas volume did not significantly affect percentage body fat estimates in adults, but resulted in overestimates of percentage body fat in children. Mean percentage body fat from ADP was higher than percentage body fat from HD, although this was statistically significant only in adults (29.3 vs 27.7%, P<0.05). The 95% confidence interval of the between-method differences for all subjects was -7 to +9% body fat, and the root mean square error (r.m.s.e.) was approximately 4% body fat. In the subset of individuals who were asked to compare the two methods, 46 out of 50 (92%) indicated that they preferred the ADP to HD.

CONCLUSION

ADP is a reliable method of measuring body composition that subjects found preferable to underwater weighing. However, as shown here and in most other studies, there are differences in percentage body fat estimates assessed by the two methods, perhaps related to body size, age or other factors, that are sufficient to preclude ADP from being used interchangeably with underwater weighing on an individual basis.

[Analysis of the HLA A/B local haplotype among the females of Han nationality in Hunan province]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate and analyse HLA A/B local haplotype gene frequency (HGF) in the females of Han nationality in Hunan.

METHODS

HLA-A, B local antigen polymorphisms were investigated via microcytotoxicity assay. Haplotype was inferred by means of linkage disequilibrium parameter.

RESULTS

Among the 46 haplotypes, HGF high were: A11-B60 (HGF = 0.1381), A2-B60 (HGF = 0.0861), A24-B48 (HGF = 0.0709). Three haplotype's linkage disequilibrium parameter have significant difference, they are A2-B52, A11-B13, A24-B52.

CONCLUSION

The female of Han Nationality of Hunan HLA-A, B especially B local antigen frequency exists difference sompare with Han Nationality in Hunan and other areas in China of mix public of both sexes. When study relativity of the female disease of Han Nationality of Hunan with HAL, should notice HLA distributing particularity, be assure data veracity. Among the 46 haplotypes, A2-B52, A11-B13, A24-B52 three haplotypes exist significant linkage disequilibrium, probably they are own haplotypes at the female of Han Nationality in Hunan.

[Feasibility of the use of degraded inedible biomass of plants as a nutrient liquid for hydroponic cultivation]

Objective. To demonstrate that the recycled liquid, which originated from lettuce inedible biomass degraded by fixed microorganism (correction of microorgannism) and enzyme, can be used as a nutrient solution for lettuce hydroponic cultivation. Method. After biologically degrading the weighted, oven-dried and milled leaves and roots of lettuce in a biological reactor under aerobic condition, the original effluent and its supplemented effluent were used as nutrients for lettuce hydroponic cultivation. Result. The average dried weight (ADW) of lettuce from the original effluent group was approximately half of that from the control group, and the ADW from supplemented effluent group was about equal to that from the control group; some qualities of the lettuce such as a relatively lower content of NO3- from both the original effluent group and the supplemented effluent one improved, and some of those such as a relatively higher content of NO2- dropped. Conclusion. The biologically-degraded effluent was able to be used as nutrient solution for lettuce hydroponic cultivation, although the effects of the inorganic ion-supplemented effluent were much better; the plants of lettuce from the biologically-degraded effluent were safely edible.

Molecular and genetic mechanisms of tumorigenesis in multiple endocrine neoplasia type-1

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is a rare but informative syndrome for endocrine tumorigenesis. Since its isolation, several groups have begun to determine the role of menin, the protein product of MEN1, in sporadic endocrine tumors as well as tumors of the MEN1 syndrome. Mutations of menin have been reported in more than 400 families and tumors, most of which are truncating mutations, thus supporting the function of menin as a tumor suppressor. The exact function of menin is unknown, but overexpression of menin inhibits proliferation of Ras-transformed NIH3T3 cells. Since menin interacts with proteins from both the TGF beta and AP-1 signaling pathways, perhaps its tumor suppressor function is related to these key cell growth pathways. In this review we will discuss the various clinical manifestations of MEN1 syndrome, potential mechanisms of MEN1 tumorigenesis, and mutations associated with MEN and sporadic endocrine tumors.

Management of burn injuries during pregnancy

Burns suffered during pregnancy is rare and can be a devastating injury. The presence of a fetus creates many special maternal physiological changes, and the burn wound places additional great stress on systems that are already highly modified. Most of the literature has come from developing countries, and most reports from developed countries have come before 1980 and do not reflect the current standard of care. We have compiled a retrospective review of eight patients burned during pregnancy. The total body surface area (TBSA) burned ranged from 1 to 85% in these patients, and all survived the injury. All patients gave birth to healthy children except the most severely burned patient, whose child suffers from cerebral palsy. Based on our experience as well as a review of the literature, management recommendations are proposed. These include: (1) early pregnancy test for all female patients of childbearing age, (2) prompt and aggressive fluid resuscitation, (3) early supplemental oxygen and low threshold for mechanical ventilatory support, (4) early delivery of the fetus if the pregnancy is in the third trimester, and (5) high suspicion for venous thrombosis and sepsis, with early and aggressive treatment.

Total body water reference values and prediction equations for adults

BACKGROUND

The clinical interpretation of total body water (TBW) necessitates the availability of timely comparative reference data. The prediction of TBW volume in renal disease is critical in order to prescribe and monitor the dose of dialysis in the determination of Kt/V. In clinical practice, urea distribution (V) is commonly predicted from anthropometric equations that are several decades old and for white patients only. This article presents new reference values and prediction equations for TBW from anthropometry for white and black adults.

METHODS

The study sample included four data sets, two from Ohio and one each from New Mexico and New York, for a total of 604 white men, 128 black men, 772 white women, and 191 black women who were 18 to 90 years of age. The TBW concentration was measured by the deuterium or tritium oxide dilution method, and body composition was measured with a Lunar DXA machine. An all-possible-subsets of regression was used to predict TBW. The accuracy of the selected equations was confirmed by cross-validation.

RESULTS

Blacks had larger TBW means than whites at all age groups. The 75th TBW percentile for whites approximated the TBW median for blacks at most ages. The white men and black men and women had the largest TBW means ever reported for healthy individuals. The race- and sex-specific TBW prediction equations included age, weight, and stature, with body mass index (BMI) substituted for weight in the white men. The root mean square errors (RMSEs) and standard errors for the individual (SEIs) ranged from approximately 3.8 to 5.0 L for the men and from 3.3 to 3.6 L for the women. In both men and women, high values of TBW were associated with high levels of total body fat (TBF) and fat-free mass (FFM).

CONCLUSION

: TBW in these healthy adults is relatively stable through a large portion of adulthood. There are significant race and sex differences in TBW. These accurate and precise equations for TBW provide a useful tool for the clinical prediction of TBW in renal disease for white and black adults. These are the first TBW prediction equations that are specific for blacks.

[Principle demonstration of nutrient delivery system in a space vegetable planting prototype facility]

Objective. To develop a nutrient delivery system for space vegetable planting prototype facility to be used in future space station, and to preliminarily testify its feasibility through ground-based demonstration experiments. Method. A nutrient delivery system in a space vegetable planting prototype facility was designed and fabricated, and ground based demonstration experiments of plant cultivation were conducted. Result. Nutrient could be steadily delivered to plant cultivation matrixes through capillary action, water content of planting matrixes could be controlled automatically and maintained constant, and the planted material lettuce showed basically normal morphology and color. Conclusion. The nutrient delivery system in a space vegetable planting prototype facility could basically meet the requirements for plant nutrient delivery under space microgravity environmental condition.

Racial differences in the sums of skinfolds and percentage of body fat estimated from impedance in black and white girls, 9 to 19 years of age: the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study

OBJECTIVES

This National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study report assesses racial differences in fat patterning in black and white girls ages 9 to 19 years, comparing the sum of triceps and subscapular skinfolds (SSFs) and percentage of body fat (%BF) from impedance as two indices of adiposity. It is hypothesized that racial differences in fat patterning manifest during puberty.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES

SSF and %BF were measured annually. Racial differences in SSF and %BF were evaluated by age. Associations between %BF and SSF were evaluated using the Pearson's correlations coefficient. Classification agreement was evaluated using the kappa-statistic. Effects of pubertal stage and race on classification agreement were examined using multivariate models.

RESULTS

White girls had a greater mean %BF at 9 to 12 years of age; black girls had a greater %BF thereafter. Black girls had a greater mean SSF at every age. The correlation coefficient between SSF and %BF was 0.79, and there was good agreement between %BF and SSF in separating high (>85th percentile) from not high (kappa = 0.60 for whites and 0.66 for blacks). SSF associated more with %BF in prepuberty and early puberty than in late puberty.

DISCUSSION

Despite good correlations between %BF and SSF, the two methods indicate different fat patterns in black and white girls.

[Prospect of the Advanced Life Support Program Breadboard Project at Kennedy Space Center in USA]

The Breadboard Project at Kennedy Space Center in NASA of USA was focused on the development of the bioregenerative life support components, crop plants for water, air, and food production and bioreactors for recycling of wastes. The keystone of the Breadboard Project was the Biomass Production Chamber (BPC), which was supported by 15 environmentally controlled chambers and several laboratory facilities holding a total area of 2150 m2. In supporting the Advanced Life Support Program (ALS Program), the Project utilizes these facilities for large-scale testing of components and development of required technologies for human-rated test-beds at Johnson Space Center in NASA, in order to enable a Lunar and a Mars mission finally.

Anomalous overexpression of p27(Kip1) in sporadic pancreatic endocrine tumors

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the cellular defects and molecular mechanisms leading to pancreatic endocrine tumors (PETs). p27(Kip1) is a universal cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI), which acts as a tumor suppressor and a negative regulator of cell cycle. From previous reports, quiescent cells show high levels of p27(Kip1) expression while neoplastic and proliferating cells show no detectable p27(Kip1) expression. We hypothesize that in malignant sporadic PETs, p27(Kip1) expression would be decreased compared with benign PETs and normal pancreatic tissue.

METHODS

Western analysis was performed on 28 PETs (7 malignant, 21 benign), 2 nonendocrine cell lines, and 5 endocrine cell lines. Signal intensities were quantitated using densitometry and standardized to normal pancreas.

RESULTS

Unexpectedly, increased p27(Kip1) expression as compared with control was seen in both benign and malignant tumors, as well as in all four pancreatic islet tumor cell lines, but not fibroblast or pituitary cell lines, evaluated. There was no difference in p27(Kip1) level between benign and malignant tumors.

CONCLUSION

This represents the first report of anomalous p27(Kip1) overexpression in sporadic PETs, and is part of a growing literature describing the paradoxical overexpression of p27(Kip1) in human tumors that includes other endocrine tumors. These studies suggest a unique molecular pathway leading to endocrine tumorigenesis.

Assessing the body composition of 6-17-year-old Black and White girls in field studies

The purpose of the study was to develop ethnic-specific equations for fat-free mass (FFM) from selected anthropometric dimensions and bioelectrical impedance measures of resistance (R) and reactance (Xc) for use in the NHLBI Growth and Heath Study. Using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measures of body composition as the dependent variable and field measures of body composition by anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance as the explanatory variables, ethnic-specific prediction equations were developed on a sample of girls representing a wide range of ages and BMI. The equations were cross-validated using (1) the Prediction of Sum of Squares (PRESS) statistic and (2) an independent sample of 20 girls of each race from a study conducted at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). Subjects were 65 White and 61 Black girls 6-17 years of age. The best race-specific equations for FFM each explained 99% and 97% of the variance in the White and Black girls, respectively. Root mean square errors (RMSE) ranged from 1.14 to 1.95 kg. The equation for Black girls used Stature2/Resistance (R), weight, and reactance (Xc) as predictor variables; the equation for White girls used Stature2/R, weight, and triceps skinfold thickness. The results indicate that (1) equations to predict FFM in girls should be ethnic-specific and that (2) accurate values for TBF and %BF can be calculated from the predicted FFM.

Childhood body composition in relation to body mass index

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to describe body composition in relation to body mass index (BMI; body weight/stature(2)) to provide health care professionals insight into the meaning, significance, and limitations of BMI as an index of adiposity during childhood.

METHODS

Data from 387 healthy, white children 8 to 18 years of age from the Fels Longitudinal Study were analyzed. Measurements were scheduled annually and each child was examined 1 to 11 times, totaling 1748 observations. Total body fat (TBF) and fat-free mass (FFM) were determined from hydrodensitometry. Stature and weight were measured using standard methods and BMI and the components of BMI, TBF/stature(2), and FFM/stature(2) were calculated. Analyses included correlations between BMI and body composition variables; age-related patterns of BMI, TBF/stature(2), and FFM/stature(2); and annual changes in BMI, TBF/stature(2), and FFM/stature(2).

RESULTS

Generally, correlations between BMI and body composition variables were strong and significantly different from zero. Means for BMI throughout childhood were similar for boys and girls, although significantly larger values were observed for girls at ages 12 to 13 years. Age-related patterns of TBF/stature(2) and FFM/stature(2) differed between sexes. In each sex, annual increases in BMI were driven primarily by increases in FFM/stature(2) until late adolescence, with increases in TBF/stature(2) contributing to a larger proportion of the BMI increases in girls than in boys.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike adults, annual increases in BMI during childhood are generally attributed to the lean rather than to the fat component of BMI. Because the properties of BMI vary during childhood, health care professionals must consider factors such as age and sex when interpreting BMI.

Age of puberty: data from the United States of America

In an attempt to determine whether the secular trend toward an earlier onset of puberty has continued over recent decades in the United States of America, published reports concerning the age of attainment of pubertal events have been reviewed. Such reports are very limited and vary in both design and inclusive ages of study subjects. Among females, two recent large cross-sectional studies indicate that fifty percent of females in the United States attain Tanner breast stage 2 at 9.5 to 9.7 years of age. This is younger than previously thought, although adequate earlier studies of girls in the United States are not available for comparison. These two studies also indicate that about 14% of girls attain Tanner stage 2 while 8 years of age; one study extends earlier reporting that about 6% exhibit onset of breast development while 7 years of age. There is no evidence that the age of menarche or the attainment of adult (Tanner 5) breast development has decreased over the past 30 years. The data also suggest an earlier onset of Tanner stage 2 pubic hair but no change in attainment of stage 5. Among males, pubic hair may be appearing at younger ages, but data are inadequate or too inconsistent to allow firm interpretation. The lack of standardization of genital criteria of pubertal onset in the male makes any conclusions regarding secular trends impossible. In summary, earlier secular trends over recent decades related to better health, improved nutrition or socio-economic status, or any putative influence by endocrine disrupters cannot be verified.

Evaluation of anthropometric equations to assess body-composition changes in young women

BACKGROUND

Healthy young women who engage in an exercise program may lose fat that is not reflected in body weight changes because of concurrent gains in fat-free mass (FFM).

OBJECTIVE

This study addressed the question of how well anthropometry-based predictive equations can resolve these changes.

DESIGN

Several widely used skinfold-thickness- or circumference-based equations were compared by using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to study 150 healthy young women before and after 8 wk of Army basic combat training (average energy expenditure: 11.7 MJ/d).

RESULTS

Women lost 1.2 +/- 2.6 kg fat (mean +/- SD) and gained 2.0 [corrected] +/- 1.5 kg FFM. Fat loss (r = 0.47), but not FFM gain (r = 0.01), correlated with initial fatness. Thus, for many women who lost fat, body weight did not change or increased. Fat loss was associated with a reduction in abdominal circumference but this alone was not a consistent marker of fat loss. One circumference equation and one skinfold-thickness equation yielded the smallest residual SDs (2.0% and 1.9% body fat, respectively) compared with the other equations in predicting body fat. The sensitivity and specificity of the best equations in predicting changes in percentage body fat were not better than 55% and 66%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that for women, anthropometry can provide better estimates of fatness than body mass index but it is still relatively insensitive to short-term alterations in body composition. Not surprisingly, the circumference equation that includes the most labile sites of female fat deposition (ie, waist and hips instead of upper arm or thigh) proved to be the most reliable.

Sex differences in bone mass acquisition during growth: the Fels Longitudinal Study

Risk of osteoporosis in later life may be determined during adolescence and young adulthood. The present study used longitudinal data to examine the accumulation of bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) in Caucasian subjects ages 6-36 yr. Growth in BMC and BMD (measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry; Lunar, Madison, WI) of 94 males and 92 females was monitored for a mean period of 4.29 yr. The main findings were that there were no sex differences in BMC or BMD during the prepubertal stage; however, females had significantly higher BMD of the pelvis and BMC and BMD of the spine during puberty, and postpubertal males generally had significantly higher BMC and BMD than their female counterparts. In addition, the longitudinal rate of bone accumulation in both sexes increased rapidly during childhood and adolescence and was nearly complete at the end of puberty. Finally, peak BMC and BMD was achieved between the ages of 20 and 25 and occurred earlier in females than in males. The rates of growth and timing of peak bone mass as reported here define the crucial period during which intervention protocols should be developed for maximizing skeletal mass to prevent the development of osteoporosis.

Body mass index during childhood, adolescence and young adulthood in relation to adult overweight and adiposity: the Fels Longitudinal Study

BACKGROUND

Childhood overweight develops during 'critical periods', but the relationship of body mass index (BMI) patterns during 'critical periods' from childhood into adulthood with subsequent overweight and adiposity has not been previously investigated. BMI patterns during early childhood, pubescence and post-pubescence and their independent effects on overweight and body fatness at 35-45 y of age were examined along with birth weight and the effects of adult lifestyle factors.

METHODS

BMI parameters describing the timing, velocity minimum (min) and maximum (max) values from 2 to 25 y of age were related to adulthood BMI values and total and percentage body fat (TBF, %BF) at 35-45 y. These data were from 180 males and 158 females in the Fels Longitudinal Study.

RESULTS

There was no sex difference in the timing of BMI rebound, but the age of BMI maximum velocity and maximum BMI were both earlier in girls. Children with an earlier BMI rebound had larger BMI values at rebound and at maximum velocity. Children who reached maximum BMI at later age had larger maximum BMI values. Maximum BMI was a strong predictor for adult BMI and in females, a strong predictor of adulthood TBF and %BF. Maximum BMI was closely related to maximum BMI velocity in females and in males, BMI at maximum velocity is a strong predictor of TBF and %BF.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in childhood BMI were related to adult overweight and adiposity more so in females than males. BMI rebound is a significant important period related to overweight at 35-45 y in females but not in males. However BMI patterns during and post-adolescence were more important than the BMI rebound for adulthood TBF and %BF status. There is marked tracking in BMI from approximately 20 y into 35-45 y. The pattern of BMI changes from 2 to 25 y had stronger effects on subsequent adult overweight than birth weight and adult lifestyle variables.

Assessment and prevalence of obesity: application of new methods to a major problem

Overweight and obesity are major health problems worldwide. A body mass index of > or =25 has been classified as overweight and of > or =30 as obesity. However, national and epidemiologic data on overweight and obesity are not based on actual measures of body fat because of the difficulty of collecting such data from large groups and especially from the obese. There are now numerous direct and indirect methods to assess body fat. Anthropometric techniques are the most common indirect methods used in epidemiologic and clinical assessments, but these are restricted in the obese to circumferences. The other methods of assessing body fat are bioelectrical impedance, body density, total body water, and dual X-ray absorptiometry, all of which have advantages and limitations when applied to the obese. All these methods make use of statistical models in calculating body composition. There are several sources of available reference data for anthropometric measures for the US population, but no direct measures of body fat are currently available. There is a clear need for the continued development and validation of new and existing techniques to determine levels of fat.

[Development of an experimental facility for waste treatment by microorganism]

Objective. To construct an experimental facility for microorganism waste processing, which will be used to recover plant nutrient liquids from plant inedible biomass essential for growth and development of plants. Method. After technical parameters and performance requirements were defined, plan demonstration, drawing design, fabrication, debug and preliminary plant inedible residue-biodegradation tests of microorganisms were conducted. Result. The temperature, stirring speed and gas-supplying flow of bioreactor of the facility were controlled automatically, as well as the pH and dissolved oxygen concentration were measured automatically and controlled manually, testifying that its performance reached the requirements of predetermined technical indexes. The 15-d test showed that the facility ran smoothly, its above-mentioned parameters could be measured and controlled precisely, and the biodegradation rate of lettuce's inedible biomass approximately attained 90%. Conclusion. The facility holding reasonable technical indexes, smooth and dependable performances, is capable of being utilized to biodegrade plant inedible biomass. It is expected that if the above-mentioned parameter combinations are optimized further, the results should be better.

Lifetime overweight status in relation to serial changes in body composition and risk factors for cardiovascular disease: The Fels Longitudinal Study

OBJECTIVE

The aims were to determine if 1) individuals who became and maintained overweight during their entire lifetime differ from those who were never-overweight in terms of annual changes in adiposity and concurrent changes in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors; 2) the changes and their relationships to each other varied between these groups or by sex within the groups; and 3) alcohol usage, smoking habits, and level of physical activity differed between groups.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Data from 16,315 examinations of 414 individuals were utilized to assess lifetime overweight (body mass index [BMI] > 25 kg/m2) status. A regressive analytic approach was used to determine the average annual changes for each individual over an adult serial interval ranging from 4 to 20 years.

RESULTS

Men and women who have become and maintained overweight have higher blood pressure and a poorer lipid/lipoprotein risk profile than those who have never been overweight. There is an accelerated deterioration in the atherogenic profile of overweight men and women as indicated by annual changes in CVD risk factors about double that of their never-overweight counterparts. In women, increased risk is derived from increasing systolic and diastolic blood pressure, whereas in men the increased risk comes not only from increasing diastolic blood pressure but also cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and, to a lesser extent, decreasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

DISCUSSION

The reduced physical activity observed in the overweight adults may be related to their accumulation of adipose tissue at a rate about double their never-overweight counterparts, and this may be driving the higher rate of increase of CVD risk factors in the overweight groups.

Effects of self-perceived hair loss in a community sample of men

BACKGROUND

Few studies have quantified the psychosocial effects of hair loss using standardized instruments in men not seeking treatment for hair loss.

OBJECTIVE

Examine self-perception of hair loss and its effects on men from the community.

METHODS

Men 18-50 years of age recruited without regard to hair loss, from households near Dayton, Ohio, completed a questionnaire assessing self-perception of hair loss, satisfaction with hair appearance, hair-loss-specific effects and general health status.

RESULTS

Men with greater hair loss had more bother, concern about getting older, perceived noticeability to others and greater dissatisfaction with their hair appearance than men with less hair loss. These effects decreased with age for men with hair loss, but regardless of age, perceived noticeability of hair loss increased monotonically with degree of hair loss.

CONCLUSIONS

Men with greater hair loss report more negative effects due to their hair loss across all age groups, but the effects were more pronounced in younger men.

[Effects of CO2 concentration on growth and development of lettuce in controlled environment]

Objective. To study the tolerance of lettuce to elevated CO2 concentration in Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS). Method. Lettuce was cultivated in the Ground-based Experimental Facility for Higher Plant Cultivation in Space (GEFHPCS), in which many parameters were kept unchanged, while concentration of CO2 was controlled at 5 different levels (2000-10000 micromoles mol-1). During the growing periods, the morphologies of lettuce were observed every day, the replenished amounts of CO2 to GEFHPCS and water to the nutrient fluid box as well as the amounts of condensed water collected from GEFHPCS were all recorded every day. After harvest, the output and photosynthetic rate were calculated and lots of constituents of lettuce were analyzed. Result. The growth of lettuce were relatively ideal when CO2 concentration was at 6000 micromoles mol-1, but an obviously withering appearance was found when CO2 concentration increased 10000 micromoles mol-1, this time the output and quality of lettuce were unsatisfactory. Conclusion. It would be optimal when CO2 concentration is controlled at about 6000 micromoles mol-1 in a lettuce-cultivating chamber.

Childhood weight, stature, and body mass index among never overweight, early-onset overweight, and late-onset overweight groups

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of timing of onset of overweight (OW) on childhood anthropometric adiposity levels using long-term serial data from the Fels Longitudinal Study.

CLASSIFICATION

OW was defined as body mass index (BMI; kg/m(2)) >25, and the age at first measurement of BMI >25 was the age of onset of OW. Early onset of OW (early-OW) and late onset of OW (late-OW) were defined as having onset of OW before and after 25 years of age, respectively, whereas never OW (never-OW) was defined as never having a BMI >25.

SUBJECTS

Subjects consisted of 67 males and 47 females in early-OW groups, 62 males and 48 females in late-OW groups, and 80 males and 114 females in never-OW groups.

RESULTS

Levels of weight and BMI in early-OW males and females were significantly greater than those in never-OW and late-OW males and females beginning at the time of adiposity rebound, which generally occurs between 4 and 8 years of age. Median BMI and weight patterns between never-OW and late-OW males were similar throughout childhood. However, significant differences in median levels of BMI for never-OW and late-OW females began at 11 years of age, although onset of OW was not until >25 years of age in the latter group.

CONCLUSIONS

For both males and females, adiposity rebound is likely an effective time in a child's development to detect and initiate prevention for childhood and early adulthood onset of OW. Although later-onset OW needs additional study, puberty seems to be a critical phase in the development of later adult onset of OW in females.

CDC growth charts: United States

OBJECTIVES

This report presents the revised growth charts for the United States. It summarizes the history of the 1977 National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) growth charts, reasons for the revision, data sources and statistical procedures used, and major features of the revised charts.

METHODS

Data from five national health examination surveys collected from 1963 to 1994 and five supplementary data sources were combined to establish an analytic growth chart data set. A variety of statistical procedures were used to produce smoothed percentile curves for infants (from birth to 36 months) and older children (from 2 to 20 years), using a two-stage approach. Initial curve smoothing for selected major percentiles was accomplished with various parametric and nonparametric procedures. In the second stage, a normalization procedure was used to generate z-scores that closely match the smoothed percentile curves.

RESULTS

The 14 NCHS growth charts were revised and new body mass index-for-age (BMI-for-age) charts were created for boys and girls (http://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts). The growth percentile curves for infants and children are based primarily on national survey data. Use of national data ensures a smooth transition from the charts for infants to those for older children. These data better represent the racial/ethnic diversity and the size and growth patterns of combined breast- and formula-fed infants in the United States. New features include addition of the 3rd and 97th percentiles for all charts and extension of all charts for children and adolescents to age 20 years.

CONCLUSION

Created with improved data and statistical curve smoothing procedures, the United States growth charts represent an enhanced instrument to evaluate the size and growth of infants and children.

Epidemiological applications of body composition. The effects and adjustment of measurement errors

The amounts of fat and fat-free mass (FFM) are functions of lifestyle, diseases, increasing age, and genetics. The levels of these body compartments are established risk factors for cardiovascular and related chronic diseases. Body composition can be assessed by several methods. The measurements for each method have inherent variations, which can be due to error in the measurement or biological variation. This presentation focuses on the reliability and precision of body composition measurements and the impact of these errors on epidemiological and population-based studies. The effects of these errors in applying body composition to epidemiological studies include the following: (1) the association of cardiovascular risk factors with body composition in cross-sectional studies; (2) changes in body composition in longitudinal or intervention studies; (3) association of changes in body composition with cardiovascular risk factors; and (4) comparison of levels of body composition among subgroups in cross-sectional studies and in intervention studies.

[Allelic polymorphism of HLA-DQA1 locus in Han nationality in Hunan province]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the genetic polymorphism of HLA-DQA1 locus in Han nationality in Hunan province.

METHOD

Sixty samples randomly selected from healthy individuals of Han nationality in Hunan province were typed for HLA-DQA1 by PCR/SSP in combination with silver-staining PCR/SSCP.

RESULTS

Ten types of HLA-DQA1 alleles were found in all 60 samples, HLA-DQA1*0302, *0501, *0102 were the common alleles with gene frequencies of 0.2254, 0.2254, and 0.2041 respectively. Twenty-six kinds of genotypes were found, and the genotype distribution fitted the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium test (P > 0.05). Five samples which had ambiguity in their PCR/SSP typing were further clarified with PCR/SSCP analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Normal gene frequency values of HLA-DQA1 alleles in Han nationality in Hunan province are provided; PCR/SSCP can be used to eliminate the ambiguity which might exist in PCR/SSP typing for HLA-DQA1 locus.

[Correlative study on HLA-DR2 allelic polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus in the Han nationality in Hunan province]

Fifty-eight systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and 59 normal controls of the Han nationality in Hunan province were involved in this study to analyze the correlation between HLA-DR2 group specific amplification in combination with HLA-DRB generic amplification PCR/SSCP technique to detect the sequence variation within exon 2 of HLA-DR2 alleles outside the sequence specific primer matching positions. The results were that HLA-DR2 was strongly correlated with SLE (RR = 2.71, P < 0.01); and HLA-DRB1 * 1501 was the allele correlated with disease (RR = 3.01, Pc < 0.05). In addition, PCR/SSCP showed that there was not any novel sequence variation in exon 2 of HLA-DR2 alleles in the Han nationality in Hunan province.

[Development of a ground-based experimental facility for space cultivation of higher plant]

A ground-based experimental facility was developed for conducting initial ground-based simulation study of Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS). The facility is composed of a main chamber, O2 and CO2 composition control subsystems, plant cultivation subsystem and whole data management subsystem. The growth room, being composed of a inner wall of mirror-face stainless steel, holds a volume of 1.8 m3 and a growing area of 1.2 m2; electronic fluorescent lamps were used as lighting sources and polyvinyl formal was used for root matrixes; the environmental parameters of the growing room such as temperature, relative humidity, O2 concentration, CO2 concentration, lighting period and irradiance intensity and the nutrient parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen concentration, liquid level of nutrient storage tank and flow rate of nutrient were all controlled automatically; all of the above-mentioned parameters can be inspected, collected, stored and printed regularly and dynamically. The results of a combined debugging and preliminary plant cultivation verified that the technical target of the facility had reached its initial design requirements, it can be used to conduct ground-based simulation studies of space cultivation of higher plants.

Aging, body composition, and lifestyle: the Fels Longitudinal Study

BACKGROUND

Changes in body composition in men and women occur with age, but these changes are affected by numerous covariate factors.

OBJECTIVE

The study examined patterns of change in body composition and determined the effects of long-term patterns of change in physical activity in older men and women and in menopausal status and estrogen use in women.

DESIGN

Serial measures of height, weight, body mass index (BMI), total body fat (BF), percentage BF, and fat-free mass (FFM) from underwater weighing of 102 men and 108 women enrolled in the Fels Longitudinal Study were analyzed. Physical activity levels and menopausal status were included as covariates.

RESULTS

There were significant age-related decreases in FFM and height and increases in total BF, percentage BF, weight, and BMI. Physical activity was associated with decreases in total BF, percentage BF, weight, and BMI in men and were associated with increases in FFM and decreases in total BF and percentage BF in women. Postmenopausal women had significantly higher total BF and percentage BF than did pre- and perimenopausal women. The longer the time since menopause the greater were the increases in weight, BMI, total BF, and percentage BF; however, estrogen use attenuated these increases.

CONCLUSIONS

Low FFM can be improved by increased physical activity. The effects of an intervention program on body composition can be masked if only body weight or BMI is measured. The effects of physical activity were more profound in postmenopausal than in premenopausal women, and estrogen use had beneficial effects on body composition.