Effective control and even elimination of endemic diseases in China benefits from the superior socialist system / 中华疾病控制杂志

On the occasion of 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the author reviews the historical course of endemic disease prevention and control in China in the past 70 years, combs the successful experience of endemic disease prevention and control in China and points out that the most fundamental reason for the effective control or elimination of endemic diseases in China lies in the firm leadership of the Communist Party of China, in the superior socialist system, in planning, guidance and overall consideration, in unremitting efforts of a number of researchers on endemic disease prevention and control and lies in the rapid development of China’s economy and society.

Serum Thyroglobulin-A Sensitive Biomarker of Iodine Nutrition Status and Affected by Thyroid Abnormalities and Disease in Adult Populations / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the usefulness of the thyroglobulin (Tg) level in adults as a nutritional biomarker of iodine status and to identify the factors related to the serum Tg level.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A cross-sectional study was conducted in adult populations of areas differing in iodine nutrition from three provinces (Autonomous Region) in China. Serum levels of thyroid hormones and Tg as well as thyroid autoantibodies were measured. The thyroid volume and nodule were measured by ultrasound. A multivariate linear regression analysis was used to assess iodine intake and other indeterminate factors associated with the serum Tg level.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>A total of 573 adults were recruited for this study. The serum Tg levels differed significantly among the three groups (22.27 μg/L, 9.73 μg/L and 15.77 μg/L in the excess, more-than-adequate, and deficient groups, respectively). The results of multivariate linear regression analysis indicate that excess and deficient iodine intake, goiter, thyroid nodule, hypothyroidism are significantly related with higher Tg level, and TgAb positivity is significantly related with lower serum Tg.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The serum Tg level reflects abnormal thyroid function and is a sensitive functional biomarker of iodine nutrition status.</p>

Annual monitoring report of national drinking-water-borne endemic arsenicosis in 2010 and 2011 / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To provide a basis for preventive strategies to national drinking-water-borne endemic arsenicosis through mastering the implementing progress of preventive measures and observing the dynamic changes.Methods Surveillances were carried out according to the provisions and requirements of The Surveillance Project for National Drinking-Water-Borne Endemic Arsenicosis(Trial).Total of 11 provinces(autonomous regions) and Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps were selected as the surveillance provinces (autonomous regions).Endemic arsenicosis villages with exposed population over 100 persons were chosen as monitoring villages in each province,81 villages in 2010 and 89 villages in 2011 were selected.Potential endemic arsenicosis villages with exposed population over 100 persons were included; 26 villages in 2010 and 19 villages in 2011 were selected.The operation of water-improving projects was investigated,the arsenic content in water from resident house was tested in potential endemic arsenicosis villages and the prevalence of endemic arsenicosis based on the residents who lived in monitoring villages was surveyed:Results ①Total of 225 water-improving projects in 45 counties were monitored,1349 villages were covered and 72.66 million persons were benefited in 2010.Total of 233 waterimproving projects in 48 counties were monitored,1576 villages were covered and 84.61 million persons were benefited in 2011.②)Total of 107 villages with high level of water arsenic were investigated and 81 villages had improved the water quality in these villages in 2010.The water-improving projects running normally reached 90.12％(73/81),intermittent operation rate was 9.88％ (8/81) and without abandoned projects.The projects with qualified water reached 86.42％ (70/81).Total of 108 villages with high level of water arsenic were investigated and 89 villages with water improved in 2011.Normally operated projects reached 86.52％ (77/89),intermittent operation rate was 11.24％ (10/89)and abandoned projects was 2.25％ (2/89).The projects with qualified water arsenic level reached 82.02％(73/89).In addition,26 villages without water-improvement were investigated in 2010,and the families with high level of water arsenic reached 66.01％(371/562).Total of 19 villages were surveyed in 2011,and the families with high level of arsenic reached 54.99％(204/371).③Total of 23 964 persons were examined in villages with improved water in 2010,the detection rate of patients with endemic arsenicosis was 4.43％ (1061/23 964),3964 persons were examined in the villages without water-improvement and the detection rate was 5.98％(237/3964),two new cases were diagnosed.Total of 25 225 persons were examined in villages with waterimproved,the detection rate was 4.68％(1181/25 225),3145 persons were examined in the villages without waterimprovement,and the detection rate was 2.26％(71/3145) in 2011,none new case was detected.Conclusions It is not optimistic about the operating status and quality of water-improving projects.The prevalence in water-improved villages remains higher than that in water-unimproved villages.The long-term mechanism of surveillance should be established and perfected as soon as possible,and the management and maintenance of water-improving projects also should be strengthened.

Protective effect of aluminum on hair loss induced by fluoride in fluorosis mice / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To investigate the effect of aluminum on hair loss induc ed by fluoride in fluorosis mice.Methods Sixty male C57BL mice were divided into four groups according to body mass:control group,fluoride (F) group (F-100 mg/L),aluminum(Al) group(Al3+ 270 mg/L) and F + Al group(F-100 mg/L + Al3+270 mg/L).Mice were killed 1 month and 3 months after the experiment,respectively.Bone F content was detected by ion-selective electrode method.The level of bone Al was measured through inductively coupled plasma emission spectrum.Dental fluorosis and hair loss of mice were evaluated by visual method.Results One month after the experiment,no dental fluorosis and hair loss was found in all four groups.The content of bone F was the highest in F group [(2401.649 + 86.835) mg/kg],and the lowest in A1 group [(427.006 + 11.878) mg/kg].The levels of bone F in F + Al group and control group were (1210.332 + 19.531)mg/kg and (538.001 + 33.337)mg/kg,respectively.The difference was statistically significant between any two groups (all P ＜ 0.05).Three month after the experiment,all mice of F treatment group had dental fluorosis and hair loss(10/10).Alopecia areas were found in the neck and back regions only.There was no hair loss in control group,Al group and F + Al group.No dental fluorosis was found in both control and Al groups.Only 2 mice were found with dental fluorosis in F + Al group.The levels of bone F in F group,F + Al group,control group and Al group were (4098.645 + 58.842),(1888.165 ± 12.187),(876.258 + 14.462) and (662.385 ± 8.966) mg/kg,respectively.The difference was statistically significant between any two groups (all P ＜ 0.05).Conclusions The hair loss is found in fluorosis mice.Hair loss of mice is closely associated with the level of F exposure.Al can prevent the occurrence of hair loss induced by F in mice through reducing the accumulation of F.

National annual monitoring report of drinking-water-borne endemic fluorosis in 2010 and 2011 / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To grasp the operation quality of the water-improving projects for lowing fluoride level and to grasp the prevalence trend of fluorosis in drinking-water-borne fluorosis affected areas in China.Methods According to theSurveillance Scheme of Drinking-Water-Borne Endemic Fluorosis(Trial),314 counties were selected as monitoring counties in 2010 and 2011,respectively.Ten water-improving projects were randomly selected in each monitoring county every year.For each project,the operating condition was investigated and the fluoride level of tap water was determined.For each village,the fluoride level in drinking water was determined and the prevalence of dental fluorosis of all pupils aged 8-12 were surveyed.Dental fluorosis was diagnosed according to Dean method.Results ①A total of 1381 water-improving projects were monitored in 2010,among which normal operating projects accounted for 93.19％ (1287/1381) and those with qualified fluoride level accounted for 76.32％ (1054/1398).A total of 1408 water-improving projects were monitored in 2011.Normal operating projects accounted for 94.74％(1334/1408) and those with qualified fluoride level accounted for 79.26％ (1116/1408).②Total 319 villages with water-improving projects were monitored in 2010,and the number in 2011 was 327.The qualification rate of water fluoride content for 2010 and 2011 were 73.35％ (234/319) and 73.70％ (241/327),respectively.Total 84 villages without water-improving projects were monitored in 2010,and the number in 2011 was 88.Villages with fluoride level ＞ 1.2-2.0 mg/L,＞ 2.0-4.0 mg/L,and ＞ 4.0 mg/L in 2010 accounted for 47.62％ (40/84),42.86％ (36/84),and 9.52％ (8/84),respectively.The proportion in 2011 was 52.27％(46/88),38.64％(34/88),and 9.09％(8/88),respectively.③The detectable rates of dental fluorosis of children aged 8-12 in 2010 and 2011 were 26.97％(4347/16 119) and 24.98％(4027/16 123),respectively.In the monitored villages,the water-improving projects were under normal operation and fluoride content in water was qualified.And the rates for villages with water-improving projects under abnormal operation or fluoride content in water unqualified in 2010 and 2011 were 44.09％ (1721/3903) and 41.86％ (2188/5227),respectively.While the rates for villages without water-improving projects in 2010 and 2011 were 46.08％ (2802/6081) and 45.51％ (2804/6161),respectively.Conclusions The national normal operation rates of water-improving projects for lowing fluoride level are between 93％ and 95％.The qualification rate of fluoride content in drinking water is lower than 80％.The operation condition and water quality of the water-improving projects in China need to be improved.The prevalence of children dental fluorosis of affected villages has dropped significantly after low fluoride water is provided continuously.

Gene polymorphisms and distribution features of glutathione S-transferase Omega-1 gene in Ala140Asp site in 16 Chinese populations / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To investigate gene polymorphisms and distribution features of glutathione Stransferase Omega-1 (GSTO 1 ) gene in Ala 140Asp site in 16 Chinese populations.MethodsA total of 1369 samples were from the human genome project(HGP)-the establishment and preservation program of Chinese minority genetic resources.The phenotypes of Ala/Ala (C/C),Ala/Asp (C/A),and Asp/Asp (A/A) of GSTO1 Ala140Asp were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism(PCR-RFLP).With analysis of molecular variance(AMOVA),the genetic variation levels among nations and regions were analyzed by estimating the evolutionary distance of alleles or genotypes.ResultsOf the 1369 individuals analyzed,979 (71.51％) were carriers of the wild homozygous allele Ala/Ala(C/C),365 (26.66％) were heterozygotes Ala/Asp(C/A) and 25 (1.83％) were mutant homozygotes Asp/Asp(A/A),with an overall frequency of the GSTO 1 mutant allele A 15.16％ [ (365 +50)/( 1369 × 2)].AMOVA analysis showed that the difference was statistically significant(P ＜ 0.05) of genetic variations of GSTO1 gene Ala140Asp among the 14 ethnic groups,and was significant between the northem and southern populations (P ＜ 0.05 ).Conclusion In different regions and populations the GSTO1Ala140Asp mutant allele frequencies are different.

Differential expression of serum proteins in chromic arsenic exposed population / 中国地方病学杂志

Objectives To screen the differentially expressed proteins in serum of population chronically exposed to arsenic in drinking water,thus to provide candidate protein biomarkers for arsenic exposure and arsenicosis.Methods Subjects were selected from the drinking water type of endemic arsenicosis areas in Shanxi province,China.Demographic characteristics,history of arsenic exposure,cigarette smoking,alcohol drinking,health and other information were collected using questionnaire.The subjects were divided into low-arsenic group (with arsenic in drinking water ＜ 10 μg/L),medium-arsenic group( 10 - 50 μg/L),high-arsenic group( ＞ 50 μg/L),and arsenicosis group(the drinking water with arsenic ＞ 50 μg/L was replaced by low arsenic water ＜ 10 μg/L).The number of cases in each group was 30.The arsenicosis patients were diagnosed according to “Standard of Diagnosis for Endemic Arsenism” (WS/T 211-2001 ).With the principle of informed consent,blood samples were collected.Differentially expressed serum proteins of different arsenic exposure groups and arsenicosis group were screened by two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis(2-D DIGE),and further identified by mass spectrometry (MS).Results An average of (1299 ± 167) protein spots were identified in 6 gel images and 688 protein spots were discovered repeatedly in at least 5 gels.There were 33 protein spots differentially expressed among low-,medium- and high-arsenic groups P ＜ 0.01).Fifty four protein spots were significantly different among low-,medium-,high-arsenic exposure groups and arsenicosis group(P ＜ 0.01 ).Twenty five protein spots were selected for MS analysis,and13 protein spots were identified.Compared with low-arsenic group,the expressions of apolipoprotein A-Ⅳ,retinol binding protein,and estrogen receptor hypothalamic isoform in medium- and higharsenic exposure groups were down regulated,and the expressions of component 4A and 4B were up regulated.Compared with low-,medium- and high-arsenic groups,the expressions of beta-2-glycoprotein Ⅰ,Keratin 1,hemopexin,complement C1r subcomponent,and ficolin-3 in arsenicosis group were down regulated,and the expressions of pigment epithelial-differentiating factor,alpha-1-microglobulin and carboxypeptidase N catalytic chain were up regulated.Conclusions Chronic arsenic exposure can significantly change population's serum protein expression.Differentially expressed proteins in arsenicosis patients will not decline with the decline of arsenic in a short term.Whether or not the differentially expressed proteins identified in this study can be used as biomarkers for arsenic exposure and arsenicosis needs to be further verified.

Protective effect of all-trans retinoic acid on injury of human immortalized hepatocytes induced by sodium arsenite / 中国地方病学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the protective effect of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on injury of human immortalized hepatocytes (HHL-5 cells ) induced by sodium arsenite and possible mechanisms.Methods After cultured for 48 h,HHL-5 cells were divided into four groups:normal group,ATRA group,sodium arsenite group and ATRA + sodium arsenite group.HHL-5 cell viability was tested by using cell proliferation experiment (WST).Superoxide dismutase(SOD),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px) activity,malondialdehyde(MDA) content,and aspartate aminottransferase (AST) activity in each group were determined by biochemical method.The microstructure of HHL-5 cells in each group was observed under transmission electron microscopy.ResultsHHL-5 cell viability(0.57 ± 0.02) of sodium arsenite group was compared with that of normal group(0.70 ± 0.01 ),the difference was statistically significant(P ＜ 0.05).Levels of SOD,GSH-Px,MDA and AST[ (153.84 ± 2.35),(0.08 ±0.02)U/mg Prot,(4.15 ± 0.50)nmol/mg Prot,(265.43 ± 4.62) × 103 U/L] of sodium arsenite group were compared with that of normal group[(237.41 ± 18.30),(0.93 ± 0.02)U/mg Prot,(2.26 ± 0.40)nmol/mg Prot,(177 ± 9.85) ×103 U/L],and the difference was statistically significant (all P ＜ 0.05).HHL-5 cell viability (0.65 ± 0.04) of ATRA + sodium arsenite group was compared with that of sodium arsenite group, and the difference was statistically significant (P ＜ 0.05).Levels of SOD,GSH-Px,MDA and AST[ (286.85 ± 3.39),(0.56 ± 0.09)U/mg Prot,(3.36 ± 0.37)nmol/mg Prot, (220.02 ± 1.07) × 103 U/L] of ATRA+ sodium arsenite group were compared with that of sodium arsenite group,the difference was statistically significant(all P ＜ 0.05).Compared with normal group and ATRA group,the surface microvilli of HHL-5 cells of sodium arsenite group decreased,double-membrane structure was unclear,vacuolar degeneration was seen in the cytoplasm,and glycogen was aggregated.The damage level of ATRA + sodium arsenite group was decreased.ConclusionsATRA plays a protective role through increasing intracellular antioxidant enzyme activity of HHL-5 cells,removal or reduction of oxygen free radicals produced by sodium arsenite.

Effects of aluminum on serum, bone and urinary fluoride content of rats with fluorosis / 中国地方病学杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the changes of fluoride content in serum,bone and urine after rats were exposed to single fluoride,single aluminum or fluoride combined with aluminum and to investigate the effects of different doses of aluminum on fluoride accumulation and excretion in rats.Methods Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 9 groups based on 3 × 3 factorial design.Different doses of fluoride(NaF,0,50,200 mg/L)and(or) aluminum(AlCl3,0,100,200 mg/L) were administered to rats in each group by drinking water.The rats took food and water ad libitum during the experimental period.After feeding for 18 weeks,rats with obvious dental fluorosis were determined as successful establishment of animal model.The fluoride content in the serum,bones and urine were measured.Results Fluoride affected the fluoride content in serum,bones and urine(F=166.74,577.81,160.96,all P ＜ 0.01 ).The interaction of fluoride and aluminum on serum,bone and urinary fluoride were statistically significant (F =7.95,5.13,6.94,all P ＜ 0.01 ).When the fluoride level was 50 mg/L,the serum fluoride contents were [ (0.08 ± 0.03) and (0.08 ± 0.02) mg/L] in the aluminum levels of 0 and 100 mg/L groups,which was higher than that of the aluminum level of 200 mg/L group[ (0.04 ± 0.01)mg/L,F=7.14,5.78.all P＜ 0.05].The bone fluoride content in the 0 mg/L aluminum level group[ (1996.53 ± 383.73) mg/kg] was higher than that of the 100 and 200 mg/L groups[(1252.51 ± 189.08),( 1160.63 ± 129.63) mg/kg,F=20.54,24.56,all P ＜ 0.01 ].When the fluoride level was 200 mg/L,the bone fluoride contents were decreased with the increasing doses of aluminum[ (4668.70 ± 887.67),(3920.30 ± 528.31 ),(3297.64 ± 396.04) mg/kg].Between any two groups,the differences were statistically significant (F =15.59,52.31,14.38,all P ＜ 0.01 ).When the fluoride level was 50 mg/L,the urinary fluoride content in the 0 mg/L aluminum level group[ (34.054 ± 9.30)mg/L] was higher than that of the 100,200 mg/L groups[( 14.81 ± 6.32),(14.67 ± 3.42) mg/L,F =25.30,24.32,all P ＜ 0.01 ].When the fluoride level was 200 mg/L,the urinary fluoride contents in the 0,100 mg/L aluminum level groups[ (57.14 ± 21.38),(51.75 ± 8.39)mg/L] were higher than that of the 200 mg/L group[(34.839 ± 9.30) mg/L,F=30.04,20.31,all P ＜ 0.01 ].ConclusionsAluminum is an antagonist of fluoride.The antagonism could be enhanced as the dose of aluminum increased.In this study,aluminum could effectively counteract the absorption of fluoride in rat model when the ratio of fluoride to aluminum is 1 ∶ 2.

Effects of sodium arsenite on mRNA transcription of keratinizing related and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 genes in HaCaT cells / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To observe the influences of different doses of sodium arsenite on mRNA transcription of keratinizing related and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2(Nrf2) genes in HaCaT cells.Methods Cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8(CCK-8) assay after the HaCaT cells were exposed to 0.00,3.13,6.25,12.50,25.00,50.00,75.00,100.00 μ mol/L sodium arsenite for 48 h,respectively.Based on the previous results of cell proliferation,0.00(control),6.25,12.50,and 25.00 μmol/L of sodium arsenite were selected to treat HaCaT cells for 48 h,respectively.The mRNA expression of keratin 1,keratin 10,involucrin,loricrin and Nrf2 were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR.ResultsCompared with the control group (100.05％),HaCaT cell proliferation rates(83.06％,51.04％,39.52％,24.51％,16.99％ and 9.04％) were significantly lower in 6.25,12.50,25.00,50.00,75.00 and 100.00 μ mol/L of sodium arsenite groups and the 50％ inhibiting concentration was 12.38 μmol/L.Compared with the control group( 1.06 ± 0.28,1.00 ± 0.12,1.00 ± 0.08),the mRNA expression of keratin 1,involucrin and loricrin (0.08 ± 0.04,0.13 ± 0.12,0.05 ± 0.03;0.47 ± 0.11,0.21 ± 0.09,0.10 ± 0.15; 0.50 ± 0.27,0.31 ± 0.10,0.57 ± 0.23) were significantly decreased(all P ＜ 0.05) in HaCaT cells treated with 6.25,12.50,25.00 μmol/L sodium arsenite,respectively.But keratin 10 mRNA expression showed a rise trend and the 6.25 μmoL/L sodium arsenite group (1.83 ± 0.45) was significantly higher than that of the control( 1.07 ± 0.14,P ＜ 0.05 ).The Nrf2 mRNA expressions of HaCaT cells in 12.50,25.00 μmol/L sodium arsenite groups(0.13 ± 0.07,0.69 ± 0.33) were significantly lower than that of the control ( 1.00 ± 0.09,all P ＜ 0.05 ).ConclusionsThe cellular proliferation and keratinization are decreased when HaCaT cells are exposed to sodium arsenite,which may be regulated by lowering Nrf2 mRNA transcription.

The inhabitant's iodine nutrition status of some coastal areas in China: a cross-sectional study / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To study whether the measure of consumption of iodized salt to prevent iodine deficiency disorders could lead to residents excessive iodine intake in the coastal areas in China.Methods A large population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in four typical costal provinces along the coastline from north to south,including Liaoning,Shanghai,Zhejiang and Fujian.In addition to survey all of its area of Shanghai,the other three provinces' investigation was carried out at urban and rural levels,respectively,including 5 costal cities,5 costal villages and 3 inland rural areas(as a control point) in each province.In each investigated spot,the local water iodine,residents qualified iodized salt consumption rate,per capita daily intake of salt and urinary iodine levels in different populations were investigated.Results A total of 7552 copies of drinking water samples,7996 salt samples and 9873 urine samples of different populations(adults,lactating women,pregnant women and children) were collected from the 4 provinces.Except the coastal cities and counties of Zhejiang province,the qualified iodized salt consumption rates at household were all greater than 90％ in the investigated spots.The median urinary iodine(MUI) of adults and children investigated in the costal areas were in the range of 100 - 299μg/L.The MUIs of lactating women of all investigated areas were all greater than 100 μg/L.The MUI of pregnant women was at an insufficient iodine level which was lower than 150 μg/L in Shanghai,the costal cities of Zhejiang and the coastal counties of Fujian.Conclusions The overall level of iodine nutrition of coastal residents is appropriate; and it is insufficient among pregnant women in some coastal areas; coastal areas should adhere to the salt iodization measures to control iodine deficiency disorders.

Survey of adult carotid atherosclerosis in water-related endemic fluorosis areas in Heilongjiang province in 2008 / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To investigate the disease situation of adult carotid atherosclerosis in water-related endemic fluorosis areas in Heilongjiang province in 2008 so as to explore the relationship between water-related endemic fluorosis and incidence of carotid atherosclerosis disease. Methods A total of 266 participants over the age of 40 from four villages in Zhaozhou county with water fluoride ≥ 1.0 mg/L in a fluorosis area and 283 residents over the age of 40 from four villages in Tailai county with water fluoride ＜ 1.0 mg/L in a nonfluorosis area were investigated. A portable-type B mode color ultrasound was used to examine the left carotid artery of all participants.The carotid atherosclerosis was diagnosed and graded through the ultrasonograms. Results The prevalence rates of carotid atherosclerosis in the 4 fluorosis villages(Xinfeng, Taipingshan, Baochan and Houzheng villages) were 47.3% (35/74), 63.5%(40/63), 73.3%(33/45) and 60.7%(51/84), respectively, and in the 4 nonfluorosis villages(Hala,Qianxing, Sanjia and Ailin villages) were 32.7% (17/52), 32.9% (24/73), 39.2% (31/79) and 30.4% (24/79),respectively. The prevalence rates of carotid atherosclerosis in every villages standardized by age were 47.3% ,63.5%,73.3% ,60.7% and 34.7% ,36.3% ,43.0% ,41.3%, respectively. Statistic method used was Wilcoxon two sample test and the differences were significant(T = 26, P ＜ 0.05 ). Total carotid atherosclerosis positive rate standardized by age in the 4 fluorosis villages was significantly higher than that in the 4 nonfluorosis villages[57.5%(153/266) ,37.8% (107/283), x2 = 21.36, P ＜ 0.01 ]. After standardized by age, the severity of carotid atherosclerosis was significantly different between fluorosis villages and nonfluorosis villages (x2 = 36.15, P ＜ 0.01 ). Conclusion The prevalence rate of carotid atherosclerosis in endemic fluorosis area is higher than that in nonfluorosis area.

Survey of adult carotid atherosclerosis in drinking-water type of endemic high arsenic area in Shanxi province in 2009 / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To investigate the relationship between drinking-water type of endemic arsenicosis and adult carotid artery atherosclerosis. Methods In 2009, 285 participants aged over 40 from drinking-water type of endemic arsenism areas and 293 residents aged over 40 from control areas were investigated in Yingxian county,Shanxi province. Portable-type B mode color ultrasound was used to examine the carotid artery of all participants.The carotid atherosclerosis were diagnosed and graded through the ultrasonograms. Content of water arsenic and hair arsenic of 10 people randomly selected in every villages were detected. Results A total of 5 villages with drinkingwater type of endemic arsenicosis as observation group and 5 villages without drinking-water type of endemic arsenicosis as control group were investigated. The prevalence rates of adult carotid atherosclerosis within observation group were 35.09%(20/57), 55.74%(34/61), 38.46%(20/52), 36.51%(23/63) and 46.15%(24/52), respectively,and standardized prevalence rates were 32.5%, 33.8%, 34.9%, 46.2% and 47.3%, respectively and the prevalence rates of adult carotid atherosclerosis within control group were 18.18%(10/55), 30.77%(16/52), 20.00%(10/50),18.67% (14/75) and 21.31% ( 13/61 ), respectively; the standardize prevalence rates were 22.4%, 17.7%, 10.7%,24.6%, 18.9%, respectively. The standardize prevalence rates were higher in observation group [39.50%(113/285) ]than that in control group[39.50%(113/285), T = 26, P ＜ 0.01 ]. The severity of adult carotid atherosclerosis (composition of 4 - 7 scores ) was compared between observation group [ 17.70%(20/113 )] and control group [ 14.06% (9/64) ], and the difference was insignificant(x2 = 0.26, P ＞ 0.05). Conclusions The prevalence rate of carotid atherosclerosis in drinking-water type of endemic arsenicosis areas is higher than that of the control areas.The study provides evidence that arsenic poisoning can cause atherosclerosis.

Analysis on the present running status of water-improving project in Anda city,Heilongjiang province in 2008 / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To understand the running status and distribution of water-improving pmjects in Anda city.Methods The running and management of the water-improving projects were investigated and located the position by Global Positioning Systerm(GPS)in Anda city.Results Among 317 water-improving projects,16.09%were either long-term projects or in poor management or had already stopped usage,77 projeets were broken,accounting for 24.29%;all inadequate supply of equipment and pipeline,83 projects had never been started,accounting for 26.18%;now,106 projects were running,accounting for 33.44%.In only 46 projects,the water fluoride concentration was lower than 1.00 mg/L,accounting for 14.51%,as a result 36 thousand people benefited.Conclusions The running status of water-improving projects was unacceptable,most of them stopped running and endemic fluorosis control was still severe in Anda city.

Analysis of field survey results for iodine deficiency disorders in high-risk areas of China / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To investigate the occurrence of new cretinism cases and the prevalence of endemic goiter, and the reason of lower coverage rate of iodized salt in the iodine deficiency disorders(IDD) high-risk areas of China, so as to put forward target prevention measures for these areas. Methods A hundred and one counties from 11 provinces(autonomous regions, municipality), such as Tibet, Qinghai, Xinjiang, Gansu, Ningxia, Sichuan, Hainan, Chongqing, Yunnan, Guangxi, Inner Mongolia, were chosen into the survey by simple random sampling. In the counties of high risk, typical sampling principle was used. In the selected townships, searching for new cretinism cases were carried out in the children under 10 years old, the thyroid volume of children aged 8-10 years old were determined by B-ultrasonography methods and their urinary iodine (UI) were determined by As3-Ce<'4+> catalytic spectrophotometry, the intelligence quotient(IQ) values of children aged 8-10 years old were measured by the combined Raven Test in China. In the household survey, the housewives were asked to fill in the questionnaire, the iodized salt coverage rates and the UI levels of child-bearing age women were investigated, the salt iodine content was determined using self-quantitative kit. Epi Info software was used to analyze the determination results. Results In the 101 high-risk counties, 249 were diagnosed as new cretinism cases from 4122 suspected cases searched. The goiter rate of children aged 8-10 years old by B-ultrasound was 8.28% (4434/53 541), 44 counties had goiter rates in the range of 5%-20%, 5 counties had goiter rates in the range of 20%-30%, and 3 counties had goiter rates of 30%. The mean IQ of children was 85.44, and the percentage of IQ value less than 70 was 16.52%(8713/52 745). The median urinary iodine(MUI) of children was 154.69 μg/L, the percentage of UI less than 50 μg/L was 17.26% (9069/52 558). Twenty-five counties had a MUI of children less than 100 μg/L. The MUI of housewives was 107.14 μg/L, the percentage of UI less than 50 μg/L was 27.50% (3722/13 534). MUI of housewives in 46 counties were less than 100.0 μg/L. The coverage rate of iodized salt at household level was 77.85%(13 150/16 891). The coverage rate of iodized salt was 52.80%(1585/3002), 44.72% (631/1411) and 72.82% (1850/2506) in Tibet, Hainan and Qinghai, respectively. More than 10% residents of Tibet, Sichuan, Hainan, Gansu and Qinghai complained that iodized salt was not convenient to buy. There were 71.39%(7652/10 719) of observed people ate crude salt. The average price of crude salt price(0.30-1.20 Yuan/kg) was lower than iodized salt(1.20-3.00 Yuan/kg). Conclusions In these IDD high-risk areas, the risk of endemic goiter and cretinism prevalence is threatening. The IDD monitoring should be carried out successively in these high-risk areas. The prevention measures, increasing iodized salt coverage rate and establishing the sustainable mechanism for eliminating IDD should be strengthened. Emergent iodine fortification measure for high risk region people should be implemented as soon as possible, a long term effective mechanism of eliminating IDD should be established.

Protective role of tea polyphenols in oxidative stress damage of the rat articular cartilage tissue caused by brick-tea fluorosis / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To explore the protective mechanism of tea polyphenols (TPs) ion oxidative stress damage of the rat articular cartilage tissue caused by brick-tea fluorosis. Methods One hundred and twenty wistar male rats were randomly divided into 6 groups according to body mass: fluoride group with drinking water containing 100.00 mg/L F-, fluoride plus TPs group treated with 100.00 mg/L F- and 10.0 g/L TPs, fluoride plus aluminum group fed with 100.00 mg/L F- and 200.00 mg/L Al3+, fluoride plus aluminium and TPs group treated with 100.00 mg/L F-,200.O0 mg/L Al3+ and 10.0 g/L TPs;brick-tea group treated with drinking water containing 100.00 mg/L F-,215.00 mg/L Al3+ and 9.2 g/L TPs, which was steeped by the brick-tea;control group treated with tap water. The animals were bred for three months and then sacrificed. The level of SOD,T-AOC and MDA in blood serum were detected,also the level of NO and cytokine IL-1β and IL-6, the expression of iNOS mRNA and protein in articular cartilage were respectively analyzed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Results Blood serum SOD level in the fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group[(664.009 ± 29.589)kU/L] was higher compared with that in the fluoride group[(625.328 ± 27.199)kU/L], fluoride plus aluminum group[(652.282±13.926)kU/L], although no statistically significant differences was found(P > 0.05) ;blood serum T-AOC level of the fluoride plus TPs, fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group, brick tea group[(10.874 ± 0.721), (11.871 ± 0.941), (10.380 ± 2.747)kU/L] was higher compared with fluoride group, fluoride plus aluminum group [(8.849 ± 1.887), (8.210 ± 1.740)kU/L], the differences all being statistically significant(P < 0.05) ;blood serum MDA level in the fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group[(3.235 ± 0.446)μmol/L] had significances compared with fluoride group, fluoride plus aluminum group [(3.889 ± 0.387), (4.580 ± 0.474)μmol/L, all P < 0.05)];blood serum NO level in fluoride plus Tps group, fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group, brick-tea group[(23.278 ± 2.386), (20.643 ± 2.623), (24.367 ± 6.072) μmol/L] had tatistical differences compared with fluoride group, fluoride plus aluminum group[(32.962 ± 8.268), (34.909 ± 6.288)μmol/L, all P < 0.05];blood serum IL-1β level of fluoride group, fluoride plus aluminum, fluoride plus Tps, fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group and brick-tea group [(4.728 ± 0.297), (4.412 ± 0.229), (4.432 ± 0.285), (4.516 ± 0.351), (4.614 ±0.2270)n/L] did not have inter-group differences (F = 2.314,P > 0.05);the blood serum IL-6 level of fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group, brick-tea group[(7.231 ± 0.596), (7.325 ± 0.290)ng/L] had statistical differences compared with fluoride plus aluminum[(8.256 ± 0.635)ng/L, P < 0.05]. The iNOS mRNA correspondent expression content of fluoride plus Tps group, fluoride plus aluminum and TPs group, brick-tea group(0.482 ± 0.021,0.447±0.021,0.491 ± 0.022) had statistical differences compared with fluoride group, fluoride plus aluminum group (0.562 ± 0.025,0.591 ± 0.020, all P < 0.05). Cells with positive iNOS protein expression of control group were mainly distributed at the surface layer of joint, while the cells of experiment groups were distributed both at the surface layer and the intermediate layer. Conclusions Tea polyphenols could alleviate oxidative stress damage on the articular cartilage, exerting protection against brick-tea fluorosis on rats through cleaning up free radicals, elevating total anti-oxidation capability, diminishing the generation of lipid peroxide.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinases-13 in the damage process of rat articular chondrocyte induced by fluoride and aluminium / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To observe the influence of fluoride and aluminum on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-13(MMP-13) in rat articular chondrocytes. Methods Original generation chondrocytes of rats was cultured and divided into fluoride group, aluminum group, fluoride plus aluminum group and control group. NaF and A1C13 at concentrations of 1 mmol/L and 2 mmol/L were administered to intoxicate the cells for 24, 48, 72 h respectively. Cells were extracted to undergo reverse transcription the polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR) at different times to observe mRNA expression of MMP-13, and protein expression was detected by Western-blot. Results In 24 h, the content of MMP-13 mRNA in fluoride group(0.830±0.043), aluminum group(1.279±0.060) and fluoride plus aluminum group(0.983±0.028) was higher than that in the control group(0.707±0.026, P<0.05), and relative expression of MMP-13 mRNA in aluminum group was the highest. In 48 h, the content of MMP-13 mRNA in fluoride group (0.964±0.180), aluminum group (1.333±0.105) and fluoride plus aluminum group (0.915±0.137) was higher than that in the control group(0.660±0.055, P<0.05), and the relative expression in aluminum group was the highest. In 72 h, the content of MMP-13 mRNA in fluoride group(0.866±0.115), aluminum group(0.846±0.089) and fluoride plus aluminum group(0.967±0.196) had no statistical significance(P>0.05) compared with the control group(0.809±0.179). In 24 h, the content of MMP-13 protein in fluoride group(1.050±0.084), aluminum group(1.010±0.113) and fluoride plus aluminum group(0.977±0.202) had no statistical significance(P>0.05) compared with the control group(0.860±0.038). In 48 h, the content of MMP-13 protein in fluoride group(0.671±0.020), aluminum group(1.134±0.094) and fluoride plus aluminum group (0.923±0.087) was higher than that in the control group (0.647±0.025, P<0.05), but no significant difference being observed between groups (P>0.05). In 72 h, the content of MMP-13 protein in fluoride group(0.672±0.022), aluminum group(1.088±0.072) and fluoride plus aluminum group(0.772±0.030) was higher than that in the control group(0.577±0.026, P<0.05). It was the highest in the aluminum group, the intra-group difference had statistical significance(P<0.05). Conclusions Fluoride and aluminum damage chondrocytes to some extent, toxicity of aluminum itself is greater than fluoride and fluoride plus aluminum. Abnormal expression of MMP-13 can be observed in the chondrocyte damage process induced by fluoride and aluminum.

Report on the surveillance of endemic arsenicosis in China in 2006 Collaboration Group of National Endemic / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To investigate the prevalence of endemic arsenicosis and the progress made of control measures in China in 2006 so as to provide basis for endemic arsenicosis control in China.Methods The surveillance was carried out according to"the National Survey Scheme of Endemic Arsenicosis".The surveillance was carried out according to the national survey scheme of endemic arsenicosis.14 drinking water type of and 3 coal-burning type of endemic areas were selected.The fulfillment and effects of control measures,and prevalence of arsenicosi were sarveyed.Arsenic contents in drinking water,corn,chilli,coal and urine were detected by silver Burveyed had improved water was 1.04%(3/288)0f tlle pmjects fail to work,86.67%(247/285)of water arsenic concentration was aualifted.All the 8746 stoves were improved in the survey spots of coal-burning area.The rate of using high arsenic coal in survey spots was 51.08%(355/695).The qualified rate of stove was 75.05%(358/477), Among 14 survey spots,water arsenic concentrations of 6 spots were within safety threshold≤0.05 mg/L,in a rate of 42.86%.Arsellic concentration in some ofthe coal samples from Shiyakou Village,Anlong County was over 100 mg/kg. All chilli arsenic contents(mean)of 3 survey spots outnumbered national standard(≤0.5 mg/kg)and corn arsenic in drinking water areas in 2006,some of the pmjects are running out.The population of survey spots is still exposed of coal store tends to decline.Food arsenic pollution is mitigated compared with last year,especially chili.

A cross-sectional survey on drinking brick-tea type fluorosis in China / 中国地方病学杂志

Objectives To clarify the basic data such as prevalent range,regiohal characteristics and the population at risk of drinking brick-tea type fluorosis in China.Methods Comprehensive survey for basic information was conducted in the provinces and autonomous regions where drinking brick-tea type fluorosis Wag prevalent,ineluding Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,Tibet Autonomous Region, Sichuan Province,Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province,Gansu Province,Ningxia Autonomous Region and Yunan Province.The survey included the number ot counties(cifies)and townships(towns)where the people were accustomed to drinking brick-tea,pepulation,ethnic minority composition,the production and living style,sales and the kinds of brick-tea aIn so on.Results Two hundred and forty-one counties and 3246 townships were found to haye the habit 0f drinking brick-tea,among which 87.46%(2839/3246)had the habit for more than 30 years.There were 31 684 administrative vilages(residents' committees),15 047 elementary schools and 2873 temples surveyed,coveting a total population of 31 052 398 and 122 739 monks.Fifty-three ethnic minorities were involved.Han accounted for 44.86%(12 902 710/31 052 398), Uighur ethnic for 20.98%(7 416 474/31 052 398),Tibetan ethnic for 13.34%(4 323 272/31 052 398),Muslim ethnicfor 8.15%(2 767 603/31 052 398),Mongolian ethnic for 4.61%(1 400 206/31 052 398),Kazak ethnicfor 3.45% (1 218 272/31 052 398),of the population of drinking brick-tea,farmer population accounted for 64.13%(19 912 833/ 31 052 398),herdsman population for 8.79%(2 728 418/31 052 398),farmer-herdsman population for 12.53%(3 889 678/ 31 052 398)and town population for 14.56%(4 521 169/31 052 398).There Was 3926.74 tons of brick-tea sold per year in the investigated regions,mainly of Fu brick-tea,Green brick-tea and Black brick-tea.Areas with high brick- tea consumption distributed mainly in farmer region and farmer-herdsman region.Annual per capita consumption of brick-tea for farmers was 3.77 kg,and for farmer-herdsman population was 2.05 kg.Conclusions Begions with the habit of drinking brick-tea distributes extensively in western China and cover a huge population,and the herdsmen and farmer-herdsman are the main risk population.Drinking brick-tea type fluorosis is a seriolls public health issue in western China.

Effect of subchronic fluoride intoxication on inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in rat bone tissue / 中国地方病学杂志

Objective To observe the expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS) in the progress of rat subchronic fluorosis,and analyse the mechanism of nitric oxide(NO) free radical injnry in bone.Methods Male wistar rats were divided randomly by body weight into two groups.i.e.sodium fluoride group and control group.Sodium fluoride group was given drinking water with 150 mg/L sodium fluoride,and control group was given tap water only.The animals were bred for 24 weeks.Every four weeks some rats were killed.The contents of serum and bone fluoride were examined and analyzed.The levels of serum NO were determined by Griess Reagent.The expressions of iNOS mRNA and protein were analyzed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.Results The serum NO contents significantly increased(t=9.36,P＜0.01) in NaF-treated rats after 8 weeks[(19.94±3.04)nmol/L],but significantly decreased(t=10.47,4.46,P＜0.01) after 20 weeks[(11.55±3.54)nmol/L]and 24 weeks[(20.83±2.49)nmol/L],compared with control group[(9.11±1.21,31.13±3.93,33.10±7.37)nmol/L].The expression of iNOS mRNA significantly increased(t=13.09,4.82,14.23,4.64,7.82,5.29,P＜0.01)in rats treated with sodium fluoride[(1.87±0.11),(1.87±0.78),(1.90±0.29),(1.93±0.67),(1.88±0.38),(1.84±0.03)],compared with control group[(0.41±0.25),(0.30±0.17),(0.18±0.06),(0.63±0.15),(0.66±0.04),(0.65±0.55)],and these proteins mainly appeared in hyperplasie zone and hypertrophic zone cells of epiphyseal plate,cartilages,articular cartilage cells,osteoblasts and ligament cells.Conclusions High dose fluoride might persistentlv induce the expressions of iNOS and catalyze synthesis of NO,then regulates osteoblast and osteoclast activitv and finally influences bone turnover.