[Determination of the serum mannose binding lectin levels in 738 Han ethnic group children].

Objective: To investigate the distribution of serum mannose binding lectin (MBL) levels in Han ethnic group children.

Methods: The concentrations of MBL in serum were measured by ELISA in 268 umbilical cord blood specimens from Chongqing, Wuhan and Urumqi as well as in serum of 470 normal children aged from 0 to 6 years and 87 adults in Chongqing.

Results: The distribution of serum MBL levels in children (28 days to 6 years) was abnormal but there was no significant difference in MBL serum levels in subjects of different ages and genders.

[Human metapneumovirus infection in children with acute respiratory tract inflammation in Urumuqi].

Objective: To understand whether human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is one of the pathogens leading to the children's respiratory infections in Urumqi.

Methods: A total number of 209 samples were collected in the People's General Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from November 2006 to April 2007 with some from the hospitalized children, while the others from outpatient clinic. Specimens included nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPA) and swabs were analyzed.