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There has always been controversy over how renewable energy technologies can play a role in reducing carbon emissions. Based on the energy patent data and the economic data of 244 prefecture-level cities from 2007 to 2017 in China, we explore the carbon reduction effect of renewable energy technology and its mechanism from the perspective of energy production, conservation, and management. The two-way fixed effect, instrumental variable, spatial Durbin, and mediation effect models are employed to explore empirical results. We found that (1) the impact of renewable energy technologies on carbon emissions is nonlinear, with an inverted U shape. However, this inverted U-shaped relationship only exists locally in cities and there are uncertainties in adjacent cities, which indicates that cross-regional cooperation in renewable energy technology needs to be improved. (2) The mechanism analysis shows that industrial agglomeration and energy consumption scale are the channels that renewable energy technologies affect carbon emissions. Thus, the implicit carbon emissions generated by industrial agglomeration and the failure to green upgrade energy consumption are the main reasons for the inverted U-shaped relationship. (3) The carbon reduction effect of renewable energy technologies of conservation type takes effect first, and renewable energy technologies of production type do not reduce carbon emissions in non-eastern cities, which means that non-eastern cities are likely to become pollution havens. This study provides evidence for renewable energy technologies to achieve efficient carbon emission reduction and cross-regional technical cooperation., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: To evaluate the current status of the registered pediatric drug or vaccine clinical trials in China for the purpose of providing a reference for the development of pediatric clinical trials in China. Methods: We collected the data about registered pediatric clinical trials that were conducted from September 6, 2013(Mandatory registration start date) to September 6, 2019 (Cut-off date) at Chinadrugtrials.org.cn platform. The survey items included trial name and number, drug classification, sponsor's information, current trial status, completion status, etc. The clinical trials were categorized by drug group (includes chemical medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and natural medicine, biological products) and by vaccine group. Results: During the six years 349 pediatric clinical trials were registered on the platform, including 162 pediatric drug trials and 187 vaccine trials. The numbers of chemical drugs and biological products registered in 2018 were 23 and 11, respectively, the highest in the history. The number of pediatric clinical trials of traditional Chinese medicine and natural medicine was 11 in 2014, but from 2015 to 2018 only 2 to 4 trials were registered each year. The overall completion rates of the registered drug and vaccine clinical trials were 22.8% (37/162) and 41.7%(78/187), respectively. Only 42 international multicenter pediatric clinical trial projects were registered on the platform. The numbers of drug and vaccine phase Ⅰ clinical trials were 4 and 46, respectively. Thirty-six pediatric endocrine system agent clinical trials were carried out, with the largest number of all the drug categories registered on the platform. Conclusions: In recent years the number of registered pediatric drug and vaccine clinical trials increased in China. However, the number is still very limited. It is urgent to further promote the development of pediatric clinical trials.

Background: Elevated serum uric acid (SUA) is associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) and all-cause mortality risk in the general population, but the impact of UA on mortality in hemodialysis patients is still controversial. The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between SUA and all-cause mortality and CV mortality in hemodialysis patients., Methods: This retrospective, observational cohort study included 210 HD patients with a mean age of 56.6 ± 16.6 years. All demographic and laboratory data were recorded at baseline. The Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression model were used to examine the association between SUA and all-cause mortality and CV mortality in HD patients., Results: With 420 µmol/L (20th percentile) and 644 µmol/L (80th percentile) as the boundary points, the patients were divided into three groups. After a median follow-up of 49.8 months, 68 (32.4%) all-cause deaths and 34 (16.2%) CV deaths were recorded. The Kaplan-Meier method showed that with a decrease in SUA, all-cause mortality (log rank χ 2 = 15.61, p  = .000), and CV mortality (log rank χ 2 =14.28, p  = .000) increased. Each 100 µmol/L increase in SUA was associated with lower all-cause mortality with an hazard ratio (HR) of 0.792 (0.645-0.972) and lower CV mortality with an HR of 0.683 (0.505-0.924) after adjusting for age, sex, and complications. Compared to the lowest quartile, all-cause mortality [HR 0.351(0.132-0.934), p  = .036] and CV mortality [HR 0.112 (0.014-0.925), p  = .042] were lower in the highest SUA quartile., Conclusion: A lower SUA level in HD patients was associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and CV mortality. Moreover, higher SUA concentrations may be cardioprotective in HD patients.

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a powerful tool for defining cellular diversity in tumors, but its application toward dissecting mechanisms underlying immune-modulating therapies is scarce. We performed scRNA-seq analyses on immune and stromal populations from colorectal cancer patients, identifying specific macrophage and conventional dendritic cell (cDC) subsets as key mediators of cellular cross-talk in the tumor microenvironment. Defining comparable myeloid populations in mouse tumors enabled characterization of their response to myeloid-targeted immunotherapy. Treatment with anti-CSF1R preferentially depleted macrophages with an inflammatory signature but spared macrophage populations that in mouse and human expresses pro-angiogenic/tumorigenic genes. Treatment with a CD40 agonist antibody preferentially activated a cDC population and increased Bhlhe40 + Th1-like cells and CD8 + memory T cells. Our comprehensive analysis of key myeloid subsets in human and mouse identifies critical cellular interactions regulating tumor immunity and defines mechanisms underlying myeloid-targeted immunotherapies currently undergoing clinical testing., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests X.Y., J.G.E., W.O., CM.L., D.L., D.B., D.S., J.O., A.K., L., L.W., S.A.OB., K.M.S are employees of Amgen Inc. X.H. and Z.Z. are founders of Analytical Biosciences Limited., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In this study, two bacterial strains designated B210 T and SEH01 T , isolated from coastal sediment sampled in Weihai, PR China, were characterized using a polyphasic approach. Strains were Gram-stain-negative, facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped and motile. According to the results of phylogenetic analyses based on their 16S rRNA genes, these two strains should be classified under the order Bradymonadales and they both show <90 % sequence similarities with Bradymonas sediminis FA350 T . Moreover, strain B210 T showed 98.6 % sequence similarity to strain SEH01 T . Genomic characteristics including average nucleotide identity and in silico DNA-DNA hybridization values clearly separated strain B210 T from strain SEH01 T . The sole quinone of these two strains was menaquinone MK-7, and the major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and an unidentified lipid. Iso-C 15 : 0 was the major fatty acid in both strains B210 T and SEH01 T , and iso-C 14 : 0 3-OH was also a major fatty acid for strain SEH01 T . Based on the polyphasic analysis, these two strains represent two novel species of a new genus within the family Bradymonadaceae . Consequently, the novel genus Lujinxingia gen. nov. is proposed, containing two new species Lujinxingia litoralis gen. nov. sp. nov. and Lujinxingia sediminis sp. nov., with strain B210 T (=KCTC 42951 T =CGMCC 1.16770 T ) and strain SEH01 T (=KCTC 42950 T =DSM 101859 T ) as the type strains, respectively.

A Gram-stain-negative, facultative anaerobic, motile, slightly bent rod-shaped bacterium, designated strain E4404 T , was isolated from coastal sediment sampled Weihai, China. According to phylogenetic analysis based on its 16S rRNA gene sequence, strain E4404 T shared the highest similarity with the type strain of Vibriovariabilis (97.0 %), followed by the type strains of Vibriomaritimus (96.1 %) and Vibrioeuropaeus (96.0 %). Multilocus sequence analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene and eight housekeeping genes (ftsZ, gapA, gyrB, mreB, pyrH, recA, rpoA and topA) showed that strain E4404 T formed a unique clade in the genus Vibrio. The average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain E4404 T and some other species in the genus Vibrio were 71.0-72.7 % and 20.4-22.4 %, respectively. Cells grew at 15-37 °C and pH 6.0-8.5 in the presence of 1.0-6.0 % (w/v) NaCl, with optimal growth at 33 °C and pH 7.0-7.5 in the presence of 3.0-3.5 % (w/v) NaCl. No growth was observed on thiosulfate citrate bile salts sucrose medium. The major fatty acids of strain E4404 T were summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or iso-C15 : 0 2-OH), C16 : 0 and summed feature 8 (C18 : 1ω6c and/or C18 : 1ω7c). The genomic DNA G+C content of strain E4404 T was 46.1 mol%. Based on the phylogenetic, genotypic, phenotypic, biochemical and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain E4404 T represented a novel species of the genus Vibrio, for which the name Vibrioalbus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is E4404 T (=MCCC 1H00197 T =KCTC 52890 T ).

High concentrations of particulate matter (PM) and ammonia (NH3) in poultry houses have adverse effects on the health of workers and animals. The present study investigated the distribution of the PM in different size fractions and NH3, as well as analyzing the physicochemical properties of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in an enclosed layer house. The detection was taken from 5:00 to 21:00 in every 2 h for a 7-d continuous monitoring using a DustTrak II model 8532 aerosol monitor for PM concentrations and a JK40-IV portable gas detector for NH3 concentrations. The concentrations of inhalable particulate matter (PM10), total suspended particles (TSP), and NH3 were significantly higher in the rear of the chicken house compared to the front (P < 0.05). The PM10, TSP, and NH3 concentrations inside the layer house were significantly higher than outside (P < 0.001). The concentrations of PM10 and TSP were both highest at the first feeding time at 7:00. The PM2.5/PM10, PM2.5/TSP, and PM10/TSP concentration ratios at 5:00 were highest with 0.84, 0.62, and 0.74, respectively. Airflow speed showed a significant correlation with other measured microclimatic variables. Organic carbon was the primary constituent of PM2.5 collected from the layer house. It was also observed that mass percentage of elements C and O were both the highest by energy spectrum diagrams of PM2.5. The ultrastructure of PM2.5 revealed that there were mineral particles derived from feed, feces, or the ground and that smoke polymers came from ambient air. In conclusion, air quality was better at the front than at the middle and rear of the layer house. Air quality outside was better than that inside the house. Chicken activities primarily caused the PM10 and TSP concentrations to increase in the chicken house. The main components of PM2.5 in the layer house were organic matter and minerals, which were mostly derived from feed, feces, and ground dust.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the urban drinking water distribution systems for two coastal cities (S City and L City) in China were analyzed. Health risk assessments of VOCs detected in tap water were performed, and the distribution characteristics of VOCs in the tap water pipe network were also investigated. Among 47 target VOCs, 16 compounds were detected, of which 11 were detected in both S City and L City. Halogenated hydrocarbons were the most commonly detected VOCs, with trihalomethanes (including bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform) having the highest detection frequencies (92%-100%). With the exception of bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane, the maximum concentrations of detected VOCs in both cities complied with the relevant limits regulated by the standards for drinking water quality (GB 5749-2006). For bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane, not only did their concentrations exceed the standard limits of GB 5749-2006 (60 μg·L -1 for bromodichloromethane and 100 μg·L -1 for dibromochloromethane), but their lifetime cancer risks (LCR) were estimated at unacceptable levels (>10 -4 ). Therefore, these two compounds should be given sufficient attention or be classified as priority control pollutants in municipal water supply networks. In addition, the spatial distribution of eight VOCs with high detection frequencies (>90%) in the tap water pipe network of S City was investigated. The concentrations of VOCs (excluding toluene) in this urban drinking water distribution system gradually decreased with increasing distance from the drinking water treatment plant.

A novel Gram-stain-positive, motile and facultatively anaerobic strain, designated NC2-31 T , was isolated from sediment from the coast of Weihai, PR China. Optimal growth occurred at 37 °C, pH 7.5 and with 2.0-3.0 % (w/v) NaCl. MK-7 was the major respiratory quinone. Meso-diaminopimelic acid was a diagnostic diamino acid in the peptidoglycan. The major polar lipids of NC2-31 T were diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). The genomic DNA G+C content of the strain was 46.3 mol%. The predominant cellular fatty acids (>10.0 %) of NC2-31 T were iso-C15 : 0 (18.9 %), anteiso-C15 : 0 (15.8 %), summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or iso-C15 : 0 2-OH) (15.3 %) and iso-C16 : 0 (10.3 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that NC2-31 T should be classified as representing a member of the genus Bacillus. Based on data from the current polyphasic study, NC2-31 T represents a novel species within the genus Bacillus, for which the name Bacillusmarinisedimentorum sp. nov. is proposed with type strain NC2-31 T (=KCTC 33721 T =MCCC 1K01239 T ).

Lung cancer is one of the main causes of cancer-related mortality in males and females worldwide. A pleiotropic effect has been observed in the interleukin 18 gene (IL18); its effects include the activation of natural killer cell cytotoxicity and the promotion of the Th1 immune response through the alteration of the expression of interferon-γ and TNF-α in humans. IL18 is therefore involved in the elimination of tumor cells in the human body. We recruited 357 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 414 controls to evaluate the correlation between two genetic variations (IL18-607C/A and IL18-137G/C) and the pathogenesis of NSCLC. We used polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism to genotype IL18-607C/A and IL18-137G/C. Statistical analysis revealed that individuals harboring the AA genotype of IL18-607C/A had an increased risk of NSCLC compared to those harboring the CC genotype (OR = 2.20, 95%CI = 1.30-3.74). Individuals expressing the A allele of IL18-607C/A had an elevated risk of developing NSCLC compared to those expressing the C allele (OR = 1.31, 95%CI = 1.06-1.62). In summary, our analysis shows that the IL18-607C/A genetic variation is related to the risk of NSCLC, whereas the IL18-137G/C variation is not. Therefore, the IL18-607C/A variation is related to the pathogenesis of NSCLC in the Chinese population studied.

Background: Precompetition nervous syndrome comprises an excessive nervous and anxiety response to the high-pressure environment preceding a sporting competition. The use of acupuncture as a treatment option for anxiety, and wrist-ankle acupuncture (WAA) specifically in this instance, has been identified as a growing trend within the Western world. In our previous study, we have confirmed the efficacy of WAA for pre-examination anxiety. In this paper, we present a randomized controlled single-blind trial evaluating the use of WAA for precompetition nervous syndrome, comparing it with the intervention of sham acupuncture., Methods/design: The study was designed as a randomized controlled single-blind trial to evaluate the effects of WAA for precompetition anxiety. The trial will be conducted in annual track and field events of Shanghai University of Sport. A total of 100 participants who meet inclusion criteria are randomly assigned by computerized randomization to receive WAA therapy or sham acupuncture. The group allocations and interventions are concealed to participants and statisticians. The Competition State Anxiety Scale (CSAI-2) is used as the primary outcome measure, while heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory frequency, tension syndrome curative effect evaluation and participants' feeling of acupuncture questionnaire are applied as secondary outcome measures., Discussion: The results of this trial will confirm whether WAA is effective to treat precompetition anxiety in annual track and field events., Trial Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (identifier: ChiCTR-TRC-13003931; registration date: 22 October 2013).

DNA sequencing, nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism were used to investigate mutations in the coding regions of the bovine myeloid antimicrobial peptide-28 (BMAP-28) and mannan-binding lectin-associated serine protease-2 (MASP-2) genes in 249 Chinese Holstein dairy cows. The associations between the polymorphisms and somatic cell score (SCS) were analyzed to determine the potential of these genes as genetic markers for breeding mastitis-resistant dairy cattle. The results revealed a C-86G synonymous mutation in the BMAP-28 gene that caused no alteration in the amino acid sequence. G553A mutation was found in the MASP-2 gene that led to the substitution of glycine with serine. The chi-square test showed that the G553A mutation was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the Chinese Holstein dairy cows, whereas the C-86G mutation was not. The variance analysis of the influence of group loci and different genotypes on the SCS showed that the SCS of genotype CC was significantly lower than those of genotypes CG and GG (P < 0.05) of the C-86G mutation, and that the SCS of genotype GG was significantly lower than those of genotypes GA and AA (P < 0.05) of the G553A mutation. Genotype combination analysis showed that the combination of the BMAP-28 genotype CC and the MASP-2 genotype GG was the best one, in which the SCS was significantly lower than those in the other combinations. Thus, this combination might be useful as a molecular and genetic marker of mastitis in Chinese Holstein dairy cows.

Objective: To explore the extraction and purification technology of total saponins from the effective parts of Liriope spicata., Methods: Orthogonal design was used. Macroporous resin was selected to separate and purify total saponin from the effective parts of Liriope spicata. The process validation was conducted. The total saponins was determined by Ultraviolet Spectrophotometry., Results: The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: 10 times the amount of ethanol (70%) for each occasion and hot reflux (3 x 2 h). Total saponins was purified by D101 macroporous resin. The concentration of eluting ethanol was 50% - 70%. Ethanol (70%) was selected as the best eluent. The result of process validation was consistent with the study., Conclusion: The process is simple and stable enough to significantly improve the extraction rate of the effective parts. The study can provide reference for the research and production of effective parts of traditional Chinese medicine such as Liriope spicata.

Objective: To investigate the polymorphisms of rs4906902 and rs8179184 loci in the promoter of the gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) receptor A, beta3 subunit gene (GABRB3), and their relevance with schizophrenia., Methods: PCR and DNA sequencing were used to detect the polymorphisms of rs4906902 and rs8179184 loci in 210 healthy individuals (control group) and 206 schizophrenic patients (case group) of the Han population in northern China. The chi2 test was used to identify Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium of the genotype distribution in the control group followed by comparing differences in genotype and haplotype frequency distributions between two groups., Results: Distributions of the genotype frequencies fit the law of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the control group. rs4906902 and rs8179184 loci were in linkage disequilibrium and showed two haplotypes which were T-G and C-A. The differences of genotypic frequencies and haplotype frequencies were statistically significant between the two groups (P < 0.05). The frequency of haplotype C-A in the case group was significantly higher than in the control group. Genotypic and haplotype frequencies in the maternal line and paternal line were statistically significant in the case group (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: The haplotype of C-A in rs4906902 and rs8179184 loci in the promoter of GABRB3 gene may be maternally inherited and positively associated with schizophrenia and may be a useful tool in the forensic identification of schizophrenia.

Objective: To detect genetic mutations associated with autosomal dominant congenital stationary night blindness (ADCSNB) in a family from Henan province., Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of 14 family members. Based on 3 genes reported previously, PCR primers were designed and corresponding exons containing the mutation sites were amplified with PCR. PCR products were purified and directly sequenced., Results: A c.281C>T heterozygous missense mutation was detected in RHO gene in all of the patients. This mutation can cause a change of the protein structure (p.Thr94Ile). The same mutation was not detected in normal individuals from the family and 50 normal controls., Conclusion: A c.281C>T mutation in RHO gene is responsible for the onset of ADCSNB in this Chinese family and results in symptoms of night blindness.

It is very important to investigate the change of nutrient in Three Gorges Reservoir for analyzing the influence after normal storage and proposing reasonable management methods. The water quality parameters were determined monthly from March in 2008 to February in 2009. Six horizontal monitoring sites and one vertical site were set in Three Gorges Reservoir. The period was separated into two different periods with taking account of the water level after the Three Gorges Reservoir storaged water, which were October-February and March-September respectively. Then, the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of nutrient and environmental features in different periods were studied with the water quality data. The results showed that there were no significant differences of water quality parameters except DO in different periods. There were also no significant differences of the vertical distribution of hydrology, water quality indexes among the three observed levels. The concentration of DO in high water level (8.29 mg/L)was higher than that in low water level (7.49 mg/L) and the mean of saturation degree of DO was 83.5%. Total nitrogen (TN), NH4+ -N, total phosphorus (TP) values were 1.42-2.23 mg/L, 0.15-0.36 mg/L, 0.08-0.14 mg/L respectively, and plane of nutrition in high water level was higher than that in low water level. The main factor influenced the concentrations of TN, NH4+ -N and TP were rainfall runoff process. Significantly positive correlation was observed by correlation analysis between nutrients fluxes and the flux at the section Cun Tan. The fluxes of TN, NH4+ -N, TP were 368.4, 97.2, 29.5 thousands tons respectively, and the non-point pollution accounts for more than 55.5%.

We identified and characterized a Chinese family with autosomal dominant Brachydactyly type B1 (BDB1). Linkage analysis revealed that the disease gene of the Chinese BDB1 family was linked to ROR2 locus. Mutational hot spot of ROR2 gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced directly. A c.2265C>A heterozygous mutation was detected in all of the patients. This mutation led to the change of p.Y755X in protein level and a truncated ROR2 protein losing integrant domains was generated. The mutation was detected in all the patients, but not in all the normal individuals of this family and 50 normal controls. This paper for the first time reported a c.2265C>A mutation in ROR2 gene of a family with BDB1 in China, which enriches ROR2 gene mutation spectrum in Chinese with BDB1.

Objective: To investigate the polymorphism of cholecystokinin (CCK) gene -45C/T of schizophrenia and its application in forensic medicine., Methods: Bidirectional allele specific PCR was used to detect CCK gene -45C/T polymorphisms in 207 schizophrenic patients (case group) and 202 healthy individuals (control group) of the Han population in northern China. The chi2 test was used to identify Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium of the genotype distribution in control group. The differences of genotype and allele frequencies distributions were compared between two groups., Results: Distributions of the genotype frequencies satisfied the law of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in control group. The differences between genotypic frequencies and allele frequencies were not statistical significance in case group and control groups (P > 0.05). Gender-stratified analysis showed that frequency of allele T in female case group was statistically higher than that in female control group (P = 0.044)., Conclusion: CCK gene -45C/T locus T allele may be positively associated with schizophrenia in female population and useful in schizophrenia identification.

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of the phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene mutations in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) in Henan province, China, in order for providing basic information for clinical genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis., Methods: All the exons and partial flanking introns of the PAH gene were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and bi-directional sequencing in 34 patients with PKU from Henan province., Results: A total of 23 different disease-causing mutations were identified which corresponded to 92.65% (63/68) of the PAH alleles, including 12 missense mutations, 4 nonsense mutations, 4 splicing junction mutations, and 3 deletion mutations. Among them, A156P and P69&#95;S70delinsP(delCTT) were novel mutations; IVS2+ 5G to C, G332E, IVS10-14C to G and L367 to Wfs were reported in Chinese population for the first time according to the PAH database (www.pahdb.mcgill.ca). Among all the 13 exons, exon 7 harbored the most type of mutations, exon 11 and exon 5 the second. The most common mutations included R243Q (17.65%, 12/68), V399V (11.76%, 8/68), IVS4-1G to A (8.82%, 6/68), R400T(7.35%, 5/68), Y166X(5.88%,4/68) and G247R(5.88%, 4/68). In addition, 9 other gene variations were found in this study., Conclusion: The mutation spectrum and frequency of the PAH gene of patients with phenylketonuria in Henan province were slightly different from those from other parts of China.

Xiao-jiang, with a basin area of almost 5,276 km(2) and a length of 182.4 km, is located in the center of the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, and is the largest tributary of the central section in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, farmland accounts for a large proportion of Xiao-jiang watershed, and the hilly cropland of purple soil is much of the farmland of the watershed. After the second phase of water storage in the Three Gorges Reservoir, the majority of sub-rivers in the reservoir area experienced eutrophication phenomenon frequently, and non-point source (NPS) pollution has become an important source of pollution in Xiao-jiang Watershed. Because dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus non-point source pollution are related to surface runoff and interflow, using climatic, topographic and land cover data from the internet and research institutes, the Semi-Distributed Land-use Runoff Process (SLURP) hydrological model was introduced to simulate the complete hydrological cycle of the Xiao-jiang Watershed. Based on the SLURP distributed hydrological model, non-point source pollution annual output load models of land use and rural residents were respectively established. Therefore, using GIS technology, considering the losses of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus in the course of transport, a dissolved non-point source pollution load dynamic model was established by the organic coupling of the SLURP hydrological model and land-use output model. Through the above dynamic model, the annual dissolved non-point source nitrogen and phosphorus pollution output as well as the load in different types were simulated and quantitatively estimated from 2001 to 2008, furthermore, the loads of Xiao-jiang Watershed were calculated and expressed by temporal and spatial distribution in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area. The simulation results show that: the temporal changes of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus load in the watershed are close to the inter-annual changes of rainfall runoff, and the different land-use type distribution has great impacts on the spatial changes of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus load in the watershed; The nitrogen and phosphorus load of different land-use types in size with descending order is, glebe and mixed land, paddy, grassland, urban land, forestland; however, for the phosphorus load, the unit area output load of glebe and mixed land is almost the same as for paddy fields; The output contribution of nitrogen and phosphorus pollution load from land-use accounts for 78%-85%, while the output contribution from livestock and poultry occupies 13%-20%. The established load model was verified by observation data, simulation results show that the established model is reasonable, simulation accuracy is higher.

Objective: To investigate the sequence features of FUT2/01 locus and its polymorphic distribution in Chinese population, and to discuss its application potential in forensic medicine., Methods: The alleles on FUT2/01 locus were amplified by PCR and then were sequenced. Furthermore, polymorphic distribution of the locus was analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The genotypes were characterized with fluorescence labeling followed by automatic detection system., Results: The sequencing results only showed the length differences which were determined by the tandem repeats variance of the core sequence. There were 9 alleles and 28 genotypes identified from 162 individuals. The discrimination power and excluding probability of paternity were 0.9639 and 0.6266, respectively. In addition, the locus could be genotyped by automatic analysis very well., Conclusion: The FUT2/01 locus exhibits high heterozygosity and individual identification power in Chinese Han population, and may be a valuable STR system for application in forensic medicine.

Objective: To understand the prevalence and risk factors for both HIV infection and prevalence rates of syphilis infection among men who exclusively have sex with men (MSM/M) or with both men and women (MSM/W) in Chongqing municipality, China., Methods: Cross-sectional studies were conducted in Chongqing. Structured questionnaire-based interviews were conducted to provide information about demographic characteristics, behavior, HIV related health services and sexual transmitted infections (STIs). Blood samples were tested for HIV and syphilis infections., Results: Of 1691 participants, 21.6% were MSM/W, with HIV prevalence as 16.1% which was significantly higher than that among MSM/M (9.4%, P < 0.001). Factors independently associated with HIV infection among MSM/W included being separated/divorced/widowed (AOR = 14.8, 95%CI: 3.1 - 71.6), having multiple male sex partners (AOR = 5.4, 95%CI: 1.8 - 16.3), unprotected anal sex behaviors (AOR = 4.6, 95%CI: 1.5 - 13.9) and syphilis infection (AOR = 4.4, 95%CI: 1.1 - 17.3). Factors independently associated with HIV infection among MSM/M were as follows: lower education (AOR = 2.6, 95%CI: 1.6 - 4.5), older age (AOR = 2.0, 95%CI: 1.3 - 3.3, 26 - 35 years vs. < 26 years; AOR = 1.9, 95%CI: 1.1 - 3.5, > 35 years vs. < 26 years), being recruited from bath house/sauna (AOR = 2.5, 95%CI: 1.1 approximately 5.6) syphilis infection (AOR = 1.9, 95%CI: 1.0 - 3.4), multiple male sex partners (AOR = 1.8, 95%CI: 1.1 - 2.9), and STIs infection (AOR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.0 - 2.7). Heterosexual behaviors independently associated with married/cohabiting (AOR = 6.5, 95%CI: 4.4 - 9.8), self-identified as bisexual/heterosexual (AOR = 3.9, 95%CI: 2.8 - 5.5), first lifetime female sex partners (AOR = 2.2, 95%CI: 1.5 - 3.0), lack of HIV related knowledge (AOR = 1.9, 95%CI: 1.1 - 3.2), being recruited from bars/night clubs/tea bars (AOR = 1.6, 95%CI: 1.0 - 2.6), older age at sex debut (AOR = 0.6, 95%CI: 0.4 - 0.8), not offering sex for money for anal intercourses in the past six months (AOR = 0.5, 95%CI: 0.3 - 1.0) and HIV infection (AOR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.1 - 2.7)., Conclusion: HIV prevalence had reached a high level among men who have sex with men and women in Chongqing, China. Multiple sex partners and other high risk behaviors when having sex with men or women among MSM/W represented a unique risk group within the population of MSM that might have bridged the HIV transmission between HIV high risk group and general population. More attention need to be specifically paid to prevent HIV transmit from HIV high risk group to general population.

Objective: To examine the prevalence and predictors of HIV and syphilis infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Chongqing municipality, China., Methods: Cross-sectional studies were conducted in three districts of Chongqing municipality from July to September, 2006 and 2007, respectively. Questionnaire-based interviews were conducted to provide information on demographic characteristics, behaviors on sex and drug use, and HIV and sexually transmitted diseases (STD) related health services. Blood samples were tested for HIV and syphilis infections., Results: Of 1773 participants, 10.6% were HIV-positive and 8.4% were sero-positive for syphilis infection. Factors independently associated with HIV infection included older age (26-35 year: AOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1-2.6; >35 years of age: AOR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4-3.8), low level of education (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.5-3.5), having had multiple male sex partners (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2-2.8), venues of recruitment from bathhouses/sauna (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.1-4.7), with self-reported STD symptoms in the past 12 months (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2-2.7) and syphilis infection (AOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1-2.9)., Conclusion: The prevalence rates on both HIV and syphilis infections were considered to be high among MSM in Chongqing city. Unprotected anal sex and multiple sex partners were common in this group. Education, condom promotion, combination of HIV and STD screening, and treatment to the diseases are essential to this population in Chongqing. However, MSM had not hitherto been perceived to be in the epidemic mainstream in this area.

After the Three Gorges Reservoir storaged water in June 2003, total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), chlorophyll a (Chl-a), potassium permanganate index and Secchi depth (SD) were determined in 12 tributaries bay in Three Gorges Reservoir. Trophic states were assessed and output fluxes of TN, TP and potassium permanganate index were calculated. The results showed that value of TN,TP, potassium permanganate index, SD and Chl-a were different in each tributary bay. SD, TN, TP, potassium permanganate index and Chl-a value were 0.10-3.5m, 0.535-7.47 mg x L(-1), 0.016-0.835 mg x L(-1), 1.55-5.88 mg x L(-1) and 1.38-23.7 mg x m(-3) respectively. The water body of tributaries is polluted at various levels. The concentration of TN is abundant. The rate of TN and TP showed that a part of tributaries eutrophication were limited by TP. The correlation of nutrient and Chl-a were researched. It indicated there was a significant positive correlation (r = 0.6242) between chlorophyll a and potassium permanganate index. Utilizing the method of integrated nutrition state index, it assessed the trophic states degree of tributaries bay. The integrated nutrition state index ranged from 33.3 to 66.1. Among all of the studied tributaries, 5 tributaries are eutrophic in May and 8 tributaries are eutrophic in June. The rest of tributaries are mesotrophic. The degree of eutrophication is more serious than before the Three Gorges Reservoir impoundment. The nutrient fluxes load was calculated by discharge and concentration of each tributary. The nutrient fluxes load of TN, TP, potassium permanganate index and NH4(+)-N are 668, 26.7, 890 and 99.2 g x s(-1) respectively. After the Three Gorges Dam was completed in 2009, eutrophication trend of tributaries estuaries will be more serious with the more slow flow velocity.

Objective: To study the distribution of the tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) gene-T457C locus polymorphism in Han ethnic group in northern China and to find its applicable value in forensic science., Methods: Genomic DNA samples, extracted from 180 unrelated individuals in northern Chinese Han population, were analyzed by PCR-RFLP., Results: The discrimination power (DP) value and the power of exclusion (PE) value of the TPH gene-T457C locus were 0.624 and 0.187, respectively. The allele frequency showed significant difference from that of French people (P=0.04)., Conclusion: Polymorphism of the TPH gene-T457C locus could show ethnic and regional differences. It has a potential to be used in forensic science.

TP, TN, chlorophyll a, potassium permanganate index and secchi depth (SD) and phytoplankton were determined in 15 tributaries of Three Gorges Reservoir. Trophic states were assessed and output fluxes of TN, TP and potassium permanganate index were calculated. The results showed that value of TN, TP, potassium permanganate index, SD and Chla were different in each tributary. SD, TN, TP, potassium permanganate index and Chla value are 0.45 - 1.5 m, 0.65 - 4.27 mg x L(-1), 0.011 - 0.432 mg x L(-1), 0.657 - 5.37 mg x L(-1) and 0.57 - 12.2 mg x m(-3) respectively. The water body of tributaries is polluted at various levels. The concentration of TN is abundant. The rate of TN and TP showed that a part of tributaries eutrophication are limited by TP. Utilizing the method of integrated nutrition state index, it assessed the trophic states degree of tributaries. All of the studied tributaries, 3 tributaries are eutropher, 10 tributaries are mesotropher and 2 tributaries are oligotropher respectively. 129 species of phytoplankton are identified, which belongs to 7 division and 67 genera. The dominant species are Bacillariophyceae, Chiorophyceae and Cyanophyta. The type of phytoplankton community is Bacillariophyceae-Chlorophyceaetype, Bacillariophyceae-Cyanophytatype and Cyanophyta-Chlorophyceaetype. The species and numbers of phytoplankton are various in different tributaries. The nutritive peculiarity belongs to responding type of phytoplankton. The nutrient fluxes load was calculated by discharge and concentration of each tributary. The nutrient fluxes load of TN, TP and potassium permanganate index are 3.14 x 10(5) t, 1.76 x 10(4) t and 2.74 x 10(5) t respectively in one year. After the Three Gorges Dam was completed in 2009, eutrophication trend of tributaries estuaries would be more serious with the decreasing of flow velocity.

Objective: To elucidate the genotype distribution of HLA-DRB1 polymorphisms in the Han race population in Liaoning of China and to evaluate its value on forensic medicine., Methods: The blood DNA samples from 13265 unrelated Chinese individuals of Han race population in Liaoning province were investigated and HLA-DRB1 alleles were genotyped with PCR-SSP and PCR-SSOP in low resolution level., Results: Thirteen HLA-A alleles were found, in which HLA-DRB1*15, 09, 12, 07 were the commonest but HLA-DRB1*03(18), HLA-DRB1*14(8) were absent. The population data conformed to the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium(chi-square was 73.34, df was 78, P> 0.5). The exclusion probability of paternity was 64.7%, the power of discrimination was 97.9% and the heterozygosity was 89.4%., Conclusion: The HLA-DRB1 polymorphism of Liaoning Han populations show the special characters and HLA-DRB1 genotyping is useful genetic marker to paternity testing and personal identification.

Objective: To establish a method for detecting the polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR)., Methods: The MTHFR was amplified, and the amplified products were detected by denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC), and the amplified MTHFR was confirmed by sequencing and restriction enzyme digesting., Results: A total of 334 individuals of Han people in southern China were recruited in our study, and their polymorphisms of MTHFR were detected. The accurate rate of the DHPLC method, that was very sensitive with 100% detection rate available, was over 99%. The frequencies of CC, CT and TT genotypes were 56.9%, 38.3% and 4.8% individually, and the frequencies of T and C alleles were 23.95% and 76.05% individually., Conclusion: The DHPLC method can detect polymorphism of MTHFR rapidly, effectively and economically. And there is the existence of different MTHFR polymorphisms in area and race.

The concentrations of ozone (O3) and carbon monoxide (CO) on the top of Taishan Mountain were monitored, and the variations and correlation were studied. The results show that the frequency of O3 hourly concentrations more than the first-degree of National Ambient Air Quality Standard(GB-3095-1996, NAAQS) was 15.81%, and the frequency of CO concentrations more than the first-degree of NAAQS was zero. The variation of O3 concentrations appears in a narrow scope, which indicates that there is scarcely influenced by the pollution of industry around. The diurnal variation of the concentrations of O3 and that of CO both present two peaks with the peaks of O3 in the behind of CO, which indicates that the concentration variations of O3 and its precursor CO are primarily controlled by local photochemical reaction process. The daily concentrations of O3 correlated well with CO.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) in adults aged over 20 years in Changchun city, providing epidemiological data for treatment and prevention of the disease., Methods: 3,960 subjects were derived from a stratified cluster and random sampling of the population in two districts of Changchun city. They were asked to answer the questions from a questionnaire in their houses. According to the degree of snoring, 200 subjects with a snoring score >or= 2 degree were selected to undergo polysomnography for a whole night and the prevalence of the disease was estimated., Results: A total of 3,648 (97.64%) validated questionnaires was collected. Of them 31.00% had a snoring score >or= 2 degree, the prevalence was higher in males (40.07%) than in females (21.76%). The prevalence of snoring was higher in drivers (42.47%) than in other occupations. The estimated prevalence of OSAHS defined by apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) >or= 5, Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) >or= 9 and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO(2)) < 90% was 4.81%., Conclusions: The estimated prevalence of OSAHS in adults aged over 20 years in Changchun city was 4.81%. Doctors should pay more attention to the disease and the ordinary people should be informed of the health impact of snoring and OSAHS.