Ji Wang

Background: This study evaluates the penetration and evolution of laboratory equipment in China’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCs) from 2021 to 2023, establishing benchmarks for optimal equipment configuration and operational capacity enhancement. Methods: Data were collected from CDCs at provincial, municipal, and county levels over three years using stratified sampling and structured questionnaires. These captured information on equipment penetration and user satisfaction. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests, ANOVA, and Fisher’s exact tests, identified trends and disparities in equipment distribution across administrative tiers. Results: Analysis of 540 questionnaires from 376 CDCs showed that essential equipment like Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs) and qPCR machines achieved over 95% penetration across all levels. Municipal CDCs reported the largest increases in equipment acquisition, followed by provincial CDCs, with minimal changes at the county level. The penetration of domestic qPCR machines rose from 21.8% in 2021% to 28.3% in 2023, with domestic brands closing the gap with international counterparts. Post-COVID-19, strategies for optimizing equipment utilization appear promising. Conclusion: This study provides a valuable dataset on microbiology laboratory equipment in China’s CDCs, revealing distinct patterns in equipment retention and acquisition. Disparities in qPCR machine and High-throughput Sequencer (HTS) penetration and satisfaction rates highlight a shift toward domestic manufacturing. The findings offer essential benchmarks for optimizing laboratory infrastructure and enhancing public health responses.

This study systematically characterizes the genetic diversity, phylogenetic relationships, recombination events, and structural variations of human adenovirus serotypes 40 and 41 (HAdV-F40/41) circulating in Shandong Province, China, between 2017 and 2019. A total of 2,221 stool samples were collected from patients presenting with acute gastroenteritis in Yantai. Enteric adenoviruses were identified using real-time quantitative PCR targeting the hexon gene. Whole-genome sequencing was performed via nanopore and Illumina platforms, enabling high-resolution phylogenetic reconstruction with IQ-TREE and the identification of recombination events using RDP5 and SimPlot. Evolutionary dynamics were inferred through Bayesian molecular clock analysis, while AlphaFold3-based structural modeling was used to assess the impact of genomic changes on the hexon protein. HAdV-F40/41 was detected in 94 samples (4.23%) with year-to-year variability in prevalence. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the co-circulation of multiple genetically distinct lineages, while recombination mapping identified key breakpoints, notably within the hexon and pVII genes. The estimated recent divergence of dominant lineages suggests ongoing adaptive evolution. Structural modeling of the recombinant strain SD376 identified 14 amino acid substitutions and three deletions relative to the reference strain OP378826.1, without substantial conformational alteration. These findings provide critical insights into the genomic plasticity and evolutionary potential of HAdV-F40/41, underscoring the importance of continuous genomic surveillance. The observed mutations and recombination patterns may facilitate immune escape and viral persistence, reinforcing the urgent need for improved monitoring strategies and the development of targeted vaccines. IMPORTANCE: Human adenovirus serotypes 40 and 41 (HAdV-F40/41) are among the leading viral causes of pediatric acute gastroenteritis worldwide, yet their genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics remain poorly characterized in many regions, including China. In this study, we systematically investigated HAdV-F40/41 strains circulating in Yantai, Shandong Province, from 2017 to 2019. Using a combination of real-time PCR, nanopore sequencing, and next-generation sequencing, we elucidated the phylogenetic relationships, recombination events, and structural features of circulating strains. Our results reveal extensive genetic variability and the emergence of recombinant lineages with altered antigenic profiles, underscoring the role of adaptive evolution and potential immune escape. The identification of key mutations and recombination hotspots in hexon and pVII genes provides important molecular markers for surveillance and risk assessment. These findings enhance our understanding of HAdV-F40/41 evolution and highlight the urgent need for continuous genomic monitoring and targeted vaccine development to mitigate the public health burden of adenoviral gastroenteritis.

This study aims to investigate the genomic epidemiological characteristics of enteric adenovirus types F40 and F41 circulating in Yantai from August 2022 to August 2023, with a focus on genetic diversity, recombination events, and their potential implications for public health and vaccine development. A total of 1200 stool specimens were collected from patients with suspected viral diarrhea, and 47 human adenovirus F subgroup positive samples in Yantai were analyzed. HAdV-F subgroup nucleic acid detection and whole-genome sequencing were performed to identify virus types and single nucleotide variants (SNVs). Phylogenetic and recombination analyses were conducted, and viral protein structures were predicted using AlphaFold3. HAdV-F40 strains exhibited relative genetic conservation, with mutations primarily localized to the fiber gene. In contrast, HAdV-F41 strains displayed pronounced genetic divergence, with a higher mutation burden in the hexon gene. Recombination analysis revealed clear intra-typic recombination events within HAdV-F41, particularly in the hexon gene region. Structural modeling indicated that although the overall protein architecture remained intact, amino acid changes in key antigenic regions may influence immune evasion. HAdV-F40 and HAdV-F41 strains circulating in Yantai show marked genetic diversity. Notably, HAdV-F41 undergoes significant recombination events that may enhance viral adaptability and immune escape. These findings provide important molecular evidence to inform future surveillance strategies and vaccine antigen design for HAdV-F subgroups.

This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of viral diarrhea in Yantai City, Shandong Province, from 2017 to 2020. A total of 2,773 suspected cases of infectious diarrhea were collected from healthcare institutions across 13 districts and counties in Yantai. Specimens were tested for astrovirus, enteric adenovirus, norovirus genogroups I and II (GI and GII), rotavirus, and sapovirus using nucleic acid detection kits. Positive cases were analyzed to characterize the pathogen spectrum and epidemiological features. Statistical analyses were conducted using chi-square and Mann–Whitney U tests. The detection rates of viral diarrhea were higher during spring and winter. The positivity rates for astrovirus, adenovirus, norovirus GI, norovirus GII, rotavirus, and sapovirus were 1.23%, 3.64%, 1.44%, 8.11%, 17.42%, and 0.61%, respectively. Among these, rotavirus and norovirus GII showed consistently high detection rates across the study period. Children under six years of age had the highest pathogen detection rates, with rotavirus being the predominant agent. The viral spectrum remained relatively consistent across age groups, and no significant changes in age distribution were observed over time. In conclusion, viral diarrhea in Yantai exhibited a clear seasonal pattern, with peaks in spring and winter. The overall detection rate showed an upward trend followed by a decline, with notable changes occurring between 2018 and 2019. Rotavirus was the most prevalent pathogen identified. Children under six years old represented the most affected population. These findings highlight the importance of strengthened surveillance for infectious diarrhea, particularly viral diarrhea among young children.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of biosafety in microbiology laboratories worldwide. In response, China has ramped up its efforts to enhance biosafety measures within its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) laboratories. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of biosafety practices across provincial, city, and county levels of CDC microbiology laboratories in China.Methods: We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey from 2021 to 2023, targeting staff from microbiology laboratories within CDCs at all administrative levels in China. Stratified sampling was employed to select respondents, ensuring a representative mix across different CDC hierarchies, job titles, and academic qualifications. The survey encompassed questions on biosafety training, the presence of BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratories, adherence to general biosafety guidelines, and management practices regarding specimens, reagents, and consumables. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences in biosafety practices among different CDC levels.Results: A total of 990 valid responses were received, highlighting a nearly universal presence (98.69%) of BSL-2 laboratories and a significant yet varied presence of BSL-3 laboratories across the CDC network. The survey revealed high levels of biosafety training (98.69%) and adherence to biosafety protocols. However, challenges remain in the consistent application of certain safety practices, especially at lower administrative levels. Notable differences in the management of specimens, reagents, and consumables point to areas for improvement in ensuring biosecurity.Conclusion: Our findings indicate a robust foundation of biosafety practices within CDC microbiology laboratories in China, reflecting significant advancements in the wake of the Biosecurity Law's implementation. Nevertheless, the variability in adherence to specific protocols underscores the need for ongoing training, resources allocation, and policy refinement to enhance biosafety standards uniformly across all levels. This study's insights are crucial for guiding future improvements in laboratory biosafety, not just in China but potentially in other countries enhancing their public health infrastructures.

Purpose: Rotavirus (RV) ranked first among infectious diarrhea-causing pathogens in Yantai from 2017 to 2019. This study investigated the seroserotypes of RV in Yantai, Shandong, from 2017 to 2019 to identify the dominant serotypes and explore the epidemic pattern, aiming to effectively reduce the infection rate, better guide vaccination, and help in epidemiological prevention and control. Methods: A total of 2227 human diarrhea samples were collected from 2017 to 2019 in Yantai. The VP7 (G serotype) and VP4 (P serotype) genes of 467 RV-positive samples were amplified using two-round nested reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction for G/P genotyping. Results: The genotyping results of RV in Yantai from 2017 to 2019 revealed that G9 was the dominant serotype for all G serotypes, P[8] was the dominant serotype for all P serotypes, and G9P[8] was the dominant serotype for all G/P combinations. G9 serotype accounted for 60.84%, 95.65%, and 83.76% of the total RV samples collected in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. P[8] accounted for 75.52%, 94.69%, and 88.89% of the RV-positive samples collected in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. G9P[8] accounted for 60.84%, 94.69%, and 83.76% of the total RV samples collected in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. Of the total 467 samples from 2017 to 2019, G2P[4] accounted for 3.64% (17/467), G3P[8] for 1.28% (6/467), and G1P[8] for 0.86% (4/467). Conclusion: This study revealed the epidemiological characteristics of RV infection and the development pattern of dominant serotypes in Yantai in recent years, guiding the selection of RV vaccines. The prioritization of vaccines containing G9 serotype for infants in Yantai in recent years is recommended.

Objective: Starting 31 July 2021, a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak occurred in Yantai, Shandong Province. The investigation showed that this outbreak was closely related to the epidemic at Nanjing Lukou Airport. In view of the fact that there were many people involved in this outbreak and these people had a complex activity area, the transmission route cannot be analyzed by simple epidemiological investigation. Here we combined the SARS-COV-2 whole-genome sequencing with epidemiology to determine the epidemic transmission route of Yantai.Methods: Thirteen samples of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak cases from 31 July to 4 August 2021 were collected and identified by fluorescence quantitative PCR, then whole-genome deep sequencing based on NGS was performed, and the data were analyzed and processed by biological software.Results: All sequences were over 29,000 bases in length and all belonged to B.1.617.2, which was the Delta strain. All sequences shared two amino acid deletions and 9 amino acid mutations in Spike protein compared with reference sequence NC_045512.2 (Wuhan virus strain). Compared with the sequence of Lukou Airport Delta strain, the homology was 99.99%. In order to confirm the transmission relationship between patients, we performed a phylogenetic tree analysis. The results showed that patient 1, patient 2, and patient 9 belong to an independent branch, and other patients have a close relationship. Combined with the epidemiological investigation, we speculated that the epidemic of Yantai was transmitted by two routes at the same time. Based on this information, our prevention and control work was carried out in two ways and effectively prevented the further spread of this epidemic.

Background: This study aimed to assess the correlation between Norovirus (NoV), diarrhea, and raw oysters from the eastern coastal areas of Yantai, Shandong, China. Methods: Marine oysters were selected from the three aquatic markets in Laishan district, Yantai City, in March 2019. Meanwhile, 100 fecal samples were collected from patients with diarrhea from the same areas during the same period. Nucleic acids were extracted from these samples and detected by employing reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for NoV GI/GII. The VP1 gene of the coat protein of NoV was amplified by semi-nested RT-PCR and sequenced. Sequence comparison of VP1 was performed with BioEdit software, and the evolutionary tree was constructed with Mega7.0 software. Results: Of the 151 oysters, 42 (27.8%) were positive for NoV. Among them, 32 (21.2%) were GII-positive, 10 (6.6%) were GI-positive, and one GI VP1 sequence was obtained in the oyster samples. Of 100 fecal samples from patients with diarrhea, 38 were GII-positive and 17 were GI-positive. Totally, 19 GII VP 1 sequences and eight GI VP 1 sequences were obtained. Two G1 VP 1 sequences in two fecal samples showed 98.7% nucleotide sequence identity and 99.1% amino acid sequence identity G1 VP 1 acquired in the oyster sample. Conclusions: The results suggest that oysters may be responsible for the spread of NoV in Yantai, Shandong province, China.

This study aimed to analyse the pathogenic spectrum and epidemiological characteristics of infectious diarrhea in Yantai City, Shandong Province, China and provide a reference for its prevention and control. A total of 713 stool specimens collected within 3 days of diarrhea onset from January to December 2017 at secondary or higher hospitals in Yantai City were tested for 10 causative pathogens, using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The top two rotaviruses and norovirus were analysed for typing and geographical distribution. The total positive rate was 46.56% (332/713), and 268 of 713 specimens contained at least one pathogen; 64 had at least two pathogens, accounting for 19.28% of the positive specimens (64/332). The positivity rates of rotavirus (RV), norovirus (NoVs) GI, norovirus (NoVs) GII, enterovirus universal (EV), enteric adenoviruses (EAdV), sapovirus (SaV), astrovirus (Astv), Salmonella (SE), Listeria monocytogenes (LiMo), and Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) were 20.06% (143/713), 1.82% (13/713), 12.84% (89/713), 10.66% (76/713), 4.07% (29/713), 0.42% (3/713), 2.38% (17/713), 1.54% (11/713), 1.82% (13/713), and 1.54% (11/713), respectively. Infectious diarrhea showed a high prevalence in young children aged 1-5 years, accounting for 48.6% of the total number of cases. Bacterial diarrhea was predominant in summer, and viral diarrhea was distributed throughout the year, without a significant seasonal pattern. Rotavirus is dominated by G9P, accounting for 81.82%, while norovirus is dominated by the GII type and has diverse characteristics. The aetiology of infectious diarrhea in Yantai is mainly viral, with RV, NoVs, EV, EAdV, and Astv being the most frequent pathogens. Continuous surveillance of infectious diarrhea diseases can help us understand its epidemiological and pathogenic characteristics, thereby taking targeted preventive and control measures in different seasons.