Luopu Research Articles

Spatial differences of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among counties (cities) on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains

The county (city) located on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains is the primary area to solidify and extend the success of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China in poverty alleviation. Its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are intertwined with the concerted economic and social development of Xinjiang and the objective of achieving shared prosperity within the region. This study established a sustainable development evaluation framework by selecting 15 SDGs and 20 secondary indicators from the United Nations’ SDGs. The aim of this study is to quantitatively assess the progress of SDGs at the county (city) level on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains. The results indicate that there are substantial variations in the scores of SDGs among the nine counties and one city located on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains. Notable high scores of SDGs are observed in the central and eastern regions, whereas lower scores are prevalent in the western areas. The scores of SDGs, in descending order, are as follows: 62.22 for Minfeng County, 54.22 for Hotan City, 50.21 for Qiemo County, 42.54 for Moyu County, 41.56 for Ruoqiang County, 41.39 for Qira County, 39.86 for Lop County, 38.25 for Yutian County, 38.10 for Pishan County, and 36.87 for Hotan County. The performances of SDGs reveal that Hotan City, Lop County, Minfeng County, and Ruoqiang County have significant sustainable development capacity because they have three or more SDGs ranked as green color. However, Hotan County, Moyu County, Qira County, and Yutian County show the poorest performance, as they lack SDGs with green color. It is important to establish and enhance mechanisms that can ensure sustained income growth among poverty alleviation beneficiaries, sustained improvement in the capacity of rural governance, and the gradual improvement of social security system. These measures will facilitate the effective implementation of SDGs. Finally, this study offers a valuable support for governmental authorities and relevant departments in their decision-making processes. In addition, these results hold significant reference value for assessing SDGs at the county (city) level, particularly in areas characterized by low levels of economic development.

Molecular characterization of Blastocystis spp. in Hotan Black chickens in southern Xinjiang.

To determine the infection status and assess the zoonotic potential of Blastocystis spp. in Hotan Black chickens in southern Xinjiang, China, fecal samples were collected from 617 chickens on 18 large-scale farms. The presence of Blastocystis spp. was determined using polymerase chain reaction based on the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) locus. The results revealed an overall infection rate of 26.3% (162/617). Samples from Farm 1 in Luopu County showed the highest infection rate (76.3%, 29/38). The highest and lowest infection rates were detected in the <30-day (34.4%, 43/125) and > 90-day age groups (12.4%, 11/89), respectively. The infection rate decreased with increasing age. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the infection rates of Blastocystis spp. among the different sampling sites (p < 0.05) and age groups (p < 0.05). Four Blastocystis spp. subtypes (ST6, ST7, ST10, and ST23) were identified. The infection rates of the zoonotic subtypes, ST6 and ST7, were 3.2% (20/617) and 22.2% (137/617), respectively. The presence of Blastocystis spp. and zoonotic subtypes provided evidence for the potential transmission of this pathogen between Hotan Black chickens and humans, especially in animal handlers in this area.

Comparing the short-term results of the improved triangular anastomosis technique for complete laparoscopic radical resection of sigmoid colon cancer and laparoscopic-assisted small incision colon reconstruction: A CONSORT study.

The laparoscopic approaches using the triangular anastomosis technique for sigmoid colon cancer (SCC) are rare. This CONSORT study explored the short-term effects of laparoscopic radical resection of SCC with modified triangular anastomosis technique and laparoscopic-assisted small incision colon cancer reconstruction surgery. From April 2019 to January 2021, a total of 86 patients with SCC who were admitted to Luopu County People’s Hospital were selected and received radical resection. Patients were divided into 2 groups using a random number table method: in the control group, patients underwent laparoscopic-assisted small-incision reconstruction surgery, and patients in the observation group underwent complete laparoscopic surgery with modified triangular anastomosis technique. The 2 groups were compared in perioperative related indicators and postoperative complications. After 3 months follow-up, local tumor recurrence and metastasis, abdominal wall puncture and implantation, and death were observed. Compared to the control group, shorter operation time, gastrointestinal reconstruction time, postoperative exhaust time, hospitalization time, and less intraoperative blood loss, and lower probability of complications were observed in the observation group (P < .05). However, there was no significant difference in the number of lymph node dissections between the 2 groups (P > .05). After 3 months of follow-up, no local tumor recurrence, distant tumor metastasis, abdominal wall puncture implantation, and death were found in the 2 groups of patients. It is indicated that the improved triangular anastomosis technique for complete laparoscopic radical resection of SCC is effective in treatment for SCC.

Plasma tumor necrosis factor-α is associated with sarcopenia in elderly individuals residing in agricultural and pastoral areas of Xinjiang, China.

BackgroundInflammatory reactions play a significant role in the occurrence and development of sarcopenia. Determining the association between specific cytokines and sarcopenia may reveal the disease’s pathophysiological mechanism(s). Accordingly, the present study aimed to investigate the association between sarcopenia and inflammatory cytokines among the elderly natural population in agricultural and pastoral areas of Xinjiang.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional epidemiological survey of the community-dwelling older people using a multi-stage random sampling method in Mulei County in northern Xinjiang and Luopu County in southern Xinjiang from September 2017 to May 2018. Of the 2,100 participants, the statistical analyses included 1,838 participants with complete data. Comparisons of living habits, disease status, biochemical indexes, and levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia participants were made in this study.ResultsOur study revealed no significant differences (i.e., P > 0.05) in sex, age, ethnicity, smoking and drinking habits, serum renal function, total cholesterol, and diabetes in the elderly between the sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups in Xinjiang. However, triglyceride levels (P = 0.004), hypertension (P = 0.019), and abdominal obesity (P < 0.001) in the sarcopenia group were significantly higher than those in the non-sarcopenia group. Moreover, the levels of IL-10 (P < 0.001), IL-4 (P < 0.001), and TNF-α (P < 0.001) in the sarcopenia group were higher than those in the non-sarcopenia group after adjusting for sex, age, hypertension, blood lipid concentration, and obesity. Furthermore, after adjusting for sex, age, hypertension, obesity, and IL-10, IL-4, and IL-6 levels, an increased TNF-α level was also significantly associated with sarcopenia.ConclusionThe results of the present study suggest that an increased plasma level of TNF-α is significantly associated with sarcopenia among elderly individuals residing in Xinjiang’s agricultural and pastoral areas. Further study is still needed to determine the physiological role of “immune aging” in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia.

Metastatic cancer along ancient Silk Road: A possible case from Xinjiang (China)

ObjectivePalaeopathological evidence of cancer, especially metastatic cancer, is rare in China. This paper describes and diagnoses a cranium with multiple lytic lesions recovered from the Sampula cemetery in Xinjiang, attempting to diagnose the type of disease that could have caused the pathological lesions observed. MaterialA cranium from an adult male (#00106) was recovered from the Sampula cemetery (dated to 55 BCE to 335 CE) located in the Luopu County, the Hotan River oasis on the southern edge of the Tarim Basin in southern Xinjiang. MethodsThe cranium was assessed macroscopically and radiographically (CT). ResultsMultiple osteolytic lesions with irregular and “moth-eaten” margins were detected in cranium #00106. CT scans revealed the development of the lesions began at the diploe and identified a “button sequestrum”. ConclusionsBased on lesion characteristics, metastatic carcinoma was likely the cause of lesions found in cranium #00106. SignificanceThis case has expanded our knowledge of the malignant neoplasms of ancient populations in northwest China and discusses the possible risk factors in the occurrence of cancer in the Sampula site, as well as the possible impacts of skeletal metastases on the individual. LimitationsThe distribution of osteolytic lesions over the complete skeleton cannot be observed because of the unavailability of postcranial bone. Suggestions for future researchWith the increasing number of reports describing diseases in ancient China, the patterns of diseases occurrence and development can be further explored from spatial and temporal perspectives.

A natural variation of an SVP MADS-box transcription factor in Triticum petropavlovskyi leads to its ectopic expression and contributes to elongated glume

A natural variation of an SVP MADS-box transcription factor in Triticum petropavlovskyi leads to its ectopic expression and contributes to elongated glume

Scientific Research of Colored Coffin Excavated from Bizili Cemetery in Luopu County of Xinjiang, China

Scientific Research of Colored Coffin Excavated from Bizili Cemetery in Luopu County of Xinjiang, China

The chemical composition and manufacturing technology of glass beads excavated from the Hetian Bizili site, Xinjiang

The Hetian Bizili site in Lop County, located on the southern route of the Silk Road in Xinjiang, China, was a trade and cultural hub between the East and the West in ancient times. In 2016, a large number of glass beads were unearthed from the 40 tombs excavated on this site. In this study we determined the chemical compositions and manufacturing technology of bodies and decorations of twelve glass beads from the M5 tomb of Bizili by using LA-ICP-AES, EDXRF, Raman Spectrometry, and SR-μCT. The chemical compositions of the beads were all Na2O–CaO–SiO2, with plant ash mainly used as a flux. Lead antimonate and lead stannate were used as the opacifying agents. We detected elevated levels of boron and high levels of phosphorus in some beads: this is discussed in the context of the type of flux used and the possible use of a P-rich opacifier. Some of the beads with high contents of aluminum may potentially come from Pakistan. In terms of manufacturing technology, the craftsmen made ‘eye’ beads in different ways and also trail decorated beads.

Assessing the Spatial Pattern of Irrigation Demand under Climate Change in Arid Area

Studying the pattern of agricultural water demand under climate change has great significance for the regional water resources management, especially in arid areas. In this study, the future pattern of the irrigation demand in Hotan Oasis in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in Northwest China, including Hotan City, Hotan County, Moyu County and Luopu County, was assessed based on the general circulation models (GCMs) and the Surface Energy Balance System model (SEBS). Six different scenarios were used based on the GCMs of BCC_CSM1.1, HadGEM2-ES and MIROC-ESM-CHEM under the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and RCP 8.5. The results showed that the method integrating the GCMs and SEBS to predict the spatial pattern was useful. The irrigation demand of Hotan Oasis will increase in 2021–2040. The annual irrigation demand of Hotan City is higher, with 923.2 and 936.2 mm/a in 2021–2030 and 2031–2040, respectively. The other three regions (Hotan County, Moyu County and Luopu County) are lower in the six scenarios. The annual irrigation demand showed a spatial pattern of high in the middle, low in the northwest and southeast under the six scenarios in 2021–2040. The study can provide useful suggestions on the water resources allocation in different regions to protect water resources security in arid areas.

Related factors and prevalence for the essential tremor disease of Uygur residents in Hetian, Xinjiang UygurAutonomous Region

To explore the prevalence and related factors of essential tremor (ET) in permanent residents of Hetian, Xinjiang. By cluster random sampling, the local residents ( ≥ 10 years) at the age of 45 years and above in Hetian, Xinjiang received an epidemiological survey covering 1 city and 7 counties. Hetian City, Yutian County, Moyu County and Luopu County were randomly selected. According to the diagnostic standard of ET, the ET patients were screened face-to-face to understand the factors related to the pathogenesis of ET. And for this case control study, a ratio of 1: 1 was used to randomly select healthy subjects without ET as the control group. Both groups were matched with regards to gender, nationality and age ( ± 2 yr). The EpiData 3.1 software was employed. And the data were independently entered to analyze the prevalence of ET in various age groups. The statistical software SPSS 19.0 was used for single factor analysis and multivariate conditional Logistic regression analysis. P < 0.05 was statistically significant. A total of 5 932 patients responded to the questionnaire and there were 216 cases of ET patients. The total prevalence rate of ET was 3.64% in those aged over 45 years old and the prevalence rate over 45 years of age was 3.76% for males and 3.52% for females. The prevalence of 45-54, 55-64, 65-74 and ≥ 75-year old were 3.08%, 3.72%, 4.08% and 4.31% respectively. Multivariate conditional Logistic regression analysis showed: the pesticide exposure history (B = 2.664, χ(2) = 86.773, P < 0.05, OR = 14.347, 95% CI 8.192-25.127) and family history (B = 3.191, χ(2) = 61.430, P < 0.05, OR = 24.303, 95%CI 10.943-53.972) were associated with increased risk of ET while occupation, education, sports, social activities, drinking tea, eating habits and the incidence of ET had no obvious correlation. ET has a prevalence rate of 3.64% in Hetian, Xinjiang, And it has a rising trend with advancing age. The pathogenesis of ET is probably correlated with age, pesticide exposure history and family history. Thus theoretic rationales may be provided for early prevention and treatment of ET in the area.

Investigation on the approach of delivery after previous cesarean section of Xinjiang Uyghur women

To explore the appropriate approach of delivery after cesarean section of Uyghur women in primary hospitals in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. A total of 5 154 women delivered in Luopu County People Hospital, Hetian Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region from January 2011 to December 2012. Among them, 178 Uyghur women had cesarean section history. The interval between the previous cesarean section and this delivery varied from 1 year to 17 years. The number of cases attempting vaginal labor and the indications of the previous cesarean section were recorded. The indications for the second cesarean section were analyzed. The gestational weeks at delivery, blood loss in 2 hours after delivery, neonatal birth weight, newborn asphyxia, the rate of postpartum fever (≥ 38 °C) and hospitalization days were compared between the two approaches of delivery. (1) Among the 178 cases, 119 cases attempted vaginal labor, the rate of attempting vaginal labor was 66.9% (119/178). A total of 113 cases succeeded in vaginal delivery (the vaginal delivery group), with the successful rate of attempting vaginal delivery of 95.0% (113/119), and the successful rate of vaginal delivery was 63.5% (113/178). For those 119 women succeeded in vaginal delivery, the indications of the previous cesarean sections were as following: pregnancy complications (68.1%, 81/119), macrosomia(5.0%, 6/119), dystocia (14.3%, 17/119), pregnancies complicated with other diseases (5.0%, 6/119) and cesarean section on maternal request (7.6%, 9/119). (2) 15 cases in the cesarean section group had postpartum hemorrhage, with the incidence of 13.3% (15/113). The mean total labor time was (507 ± 182) minutes. 6 cases attempting vaginal delivery failed and turned to cesarean section. (3) 59 cases received the second cesarean section (the cesarean section group). The rate of second cesarean section was 33.1% (59/178). The indications of the second cesarean section were as following: contracted pelvis (5%, 3/59), pregnancy complications (42%, 25/59), macrosomia (20%, 12/59), short interval between the two cesarean sections (≤ 2 years); (12%, 7/59) and cesarean section on maternal request (20%, 12/59). (4) Gestational weeks at delivery, rates of newborn asphyxia in the vaginal delivery and cesarean section groups showed no significant statistical difference (P > 0.05). In the vaginal delivery group, the average blood loss in 2 hours after delivery was (259 ± 213) ml, the rate of postpartum fever was 10.6%, the mean fetal birth weight was (3 272 ± 477)g and the mean hospitalization was (1.8 ± 1.6) d. In the cesarean section group, they were (400 ± 320) ml, 54.2%, (3 539 ± 500)g and (8.7 ± 2.2)d, respectively. There was significant statistical difference (P < 0.01) between the two groups. Vaginal delivery after cesarean section could be attemped in Uyghur pregnant women in Xinjiang primary hospitals, if doctors could choose the indications strictly and monitor closely. These could increase the success rate and safety of vaginal delivery and therefore reduce the cesarean section rate.

Study on Patterns of Woolen Costumes Unearthed from Sampula Tombs in Xinjiang - For Example Woolen Ribbon, Skirt Decorated with Plait

Sampula tombs located 14 km southwest of the Sampula Township, Lop County, Hotan City, Xinjiang. Lop County located south of the Tianshan，southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert, the northern foot of the Kunlun Mountains. The era of the tombs is about Western Han Dynasty late to the Eastern Jin Dynasty. There are four times excavation from 1983 to 1996, 68 tombs and 2 martyrdom horse tombs were excavated, among them nearly 130 pieces of woolen clothing. Which unearthed large quantities, complete styles, diverse patterns and rich themes are skirts of silk ribbon and belts.This paper mainly analyzes the patterns of the two kinds of the most representative clothing .

The Inscriptions on the Carpets Found at Shanpula, Luopu (Lop) County, Xinjiang

The Inscriptions on the Carpets Found at Shanpula, Luopu (Lop) County, Xinjiang

ASRWM: an arid/semiarid region water management model

Water shortage resulting from both natural conditions and human activities has been proved to be a bottleneck that chokes development in arid and semiarid regions. Systems analysis provides an effective way of clarifying conflicts between water supply and demand. In this study, an arid/semiarid region water management (ASRWM) model is developed for sound planning of a water resources system. The proposed model is founded on interval-fuzzy multiobjective programing (IFMOP) for effectively reflecting complexities of the study system and expediently facilitating solution of the model. Member-ship functions for modeling objectives and constraints are formulated to reflect uncertainties in different system components and their interrelationships. To evaluate the applicability of the proposed model, a case study for the Luopu County in northwestern China has been undertaken. The modeling outputs generated through scenario analyses are based on in-depth examination of several sensitive issues including farming, horticulture, stockbreeding, spring water allocation, pasture expansion, and land exploitation. The obtained results lead to two alternatives that provide an useful basis for formulating desired policies of sustainable development in the region. Through the case study, the proposed model is proved to have reasonable computational requirements and to be applicable to large-scale practical planning problems.