BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence(IPV)is a major public health concern linked to psychiatric and physical morbidity.However,evidence from East Asia,particularly from registry-based and sex-inclusive analyses,remain...BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence(IPV)is a major public health concern linked to psychiatric and physical morbidity.However,evidence from East Asia,particularly from registry-based and sex-inclusive analyses,remains limited.We hypothesized that IPV survivors would have elevated risks of psychiatric disorders and stressrelated physical conditions.AIM To assess psychiatric and physical health risks following IPV exposure in Taiwan.METHODS We conducted a nationwide,registry-based case control study using data from Taiwan’s Health and Welfare Data Science Center.Adults aged 18-64 years with a first IPV report in 2019(n=43393)were matched 1:1 by sex and age to controls.Incident diagnoses within 1 year were identified from claims data.Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios(AORs).RESULTS Compared to controls,IPV survivors had higher risks of depressive disorders[AOR=4.18,95%confidence interval(CI):3.78-4.60,P<0.001],bipolar disorder(AOR=4.81,95%CI:3.83-6.10,P<0.001),schizophrenia(AOR=1.75,95%CI:1.46-2.10,P<0.001),and alcohol/substance use disorders(AOR=5.98,95%CI:2.21-8.50,P<0.001).The risk of asthma was modestly elevated(AOR=1.31,95%CI:1.08-1.60,P=0.006).No significant association was observed for irritable bowel syndrome(P=0.94).CONCLUSION IPV survivors in Taiwan face substantially increased psychiatric risk and a modestly elevated risk of asthma,warranting early screening and integrated mental and physical health care.展开更多
The recovery of Taiwan was the victorious outcome of the joint resistance against Japanese aggression by compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.Taiwan's return to China was an important part of the post-wa...The recovery of Taiwan was the victorious outcome of the joint resistance against Japanese aggression by compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.Taiwan's return to China was an important part of the post-war international order,and irrefutable historical evidence that both sides of the Strait belong to one and the same China.It proclaims the prevailing trend that both sides of the Taiwan Strait must and will be reunified.Lai Ching-te and the Democratic Progressive Party(DPP)authorities'attempts to downplay and distort the history of Taiwan's recovery cannot overturn the historical and legal fact that Taiwan is part of China.National reunification is a prevailing trend of China's historical development,an essential requirement for the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,and will be a sure result of China's development and progress.Compatriots on both sides of the Strait should remember the history of Taiwan's recovery and return to the motherland,firmly safeguard state sovereignty and territorial integrity,and resolutely oppose"Taiwan independence"separatist acts.The international community should also be fully aware of and show understanding for the confidence and determination of the Chinese people to achieve China's complete reunification.展开更多
BACKGROUND Anti-drug antibodies(ADAs)can reduce the effectiveness of biologics.While human leukocyte antigen(HLA)-DQA1*05 allele is linked to ADA formation in European Crohn’s disease patients,its relevance in non-Eu...BACKGROUND Anti-drug antibodies(ADAs)can reduce the effectiveness of biologics.While human leukocyte antigen(HLA)-DQA1*05 allele is linked to ADA formation in European Crohn’s disease patients,its relevance in non-European populations remains unclear.AIM To investigate HLA genotypes associated with the development of ADAs in Taiwan Region of China inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)patients treated with biologics.METHODS In this multicenter study,IBD patients treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor(TNF),anti-integrin,or anti-interleukin(IL)-12/23 therapies from April 2022 to June 2024 were enrolled.All participants underwent next-generation sequencing for HLA genotyping.ADA levels were measured via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.HLA allele frequencies were compared between ADA-positive and ADA-negative groups,and against general Taiwan Region of China population data.RESULTS Ninety-five IBD patients were included:58 received anti-TNF therapy(38 infliximab,20 adalimumab),27 antiintegrin,and 10 anti-IL-12/23.ADAs occurred only in the anti-TNF group(n=22):19 infliximab(50%)and 3 adalimumab(15%).No ADAs developed in patients on anti-integrin or anti-IL-12/23 agents.HLA-C*03:04:01 was significantly associated with anti-infliximab ADAs(31.6%vs 0%,P=0.02),and HLA-B*15:18:01 with anti-adalimumab ADAs(66.7%vs 0%,P=0.016).HLA-DQA1*05 was not associated with ADA formation.Frequencies of HLA-C*03:04:01(8.4%vs 10.5%)and HLA-B*15:18:01(1.6%vs 0.6%)in IBD patients were comparable to those in the general population.ADA titers were inversely correlated with serum drug levels.CONCLUSION In Taiwan Region of China IBD patients,HLA-C*03:04:01 and HLA-B*15:18:01 were significantly associated with ADA development to infliximab and adalimumab,respectively.HLA-DQA1*05 was not predictive,highlighting ethnic differences in genetic predisposition to immunogenicity.展开更多
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C and alcoholic liver disease are the principal causes of hepaticrelated morbidity and mortality.However,evidence of the associations between diabetes without the above risk factors and hepa...BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C and alcoholic liver disease are the principal causes of hepaticrelated morbidity and mortality.However,evidence of the associations between diabetes without the above risk factors and hepatic-related study endpoints is not well understood.In addition,the effects of associated metabolic dysfunction and exercise on hepatic outcomes are still not clear.AIM To investigate the incidence and relative hazards of cirrhosis of the liver,hepato cellular carcinoma(HCC),hepatic-related complications and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes(T2D)who were nonalcoholic and serologically negative for hepatitis B and C in Taiwan,China.METHODS A total of 33184 T2D patients and 648746 nondiabetic subjects selected from Taiwan’s,China adult preventive health care service were linked to various National Health Insurance databases,cancer registry,and death registry to identify cirrhosis of the liver,HCC,hepatic-related complications,and mortality.The Poisson assumption and Cox proportional hazard regression model were used to estimate the incidences and relative hazards of all hepatic-related study endpoints,respectively.We also compared the risk of hepatic outcomes stratified by age,sex,associated metabolic dysfunctions,and regular exercise between T2D patients and nondiabetic subjects.RESULTS Compared with nondiabetic subjects,T2D patients had a significantly greater incidence(6.32 vs 17.20 per 10000 person-years)and greater risk of cirrhosis of the liver[adjusted hazard ratio(aHR)1.45;95%CI:1.30-1.62].The aHRs for HCC,hepatic complications,and mortality were 1.81,1.87,and 2.08,respectively.An older age,male sex,obesity,hypertension,and dyslipidemia further increased the risks of all hepatic-related study endpoints,and regular exercise decreased the risk,irrespective of diabetes status.CONCLUSION Patients with T2D are at increased risk of cirrhosis of the liver,HCC,hepatic-related complications,and mortality,and associated metabolic dysfunctions provide additional hazard.Coordinated interprofessional care for high-risk T2D patients and diabetes education,with an emphasis on the importance of physical activity,are crucial for minimizing hepatic outcomes.展开更多
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance significantly impacts the treatment failure rates of Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infections.AIM To investigate the trends in primary antibiotic resistance of H.pylori in Taiwan of Chi...BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance significantly impacts the treatment failure rates of Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infections.AIM To investigate the trends in primary antibiotic resistance of H.pylori in Taiwan of China over the past six years.METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of H.pylori isolates from Taiwan residents,China who had not undergone previous treatments(n=1408),collected between January 1,2019 and December 31,2024.Susceptibility of these strains to amoxicillin,clarithromycin,levofloxacin,metronidazole,and tetracycline was tested using the Epsilometer test.We analyzed the trends in single and dual resistance profiles over the study period,and compared antibiotic resistance across different regions(northern,southern and eastern areas)of Taiwan of China.RESULTS The overall resistance rates for H.pylori to amoxicillin,clarithromycin,metronidazole,tetracycline,and levofloxacin in Taiwan of China were 1.3%,18.0%,31.0%,0.8%,and 28.7%,respectively.Tetracycline resistance increased significantly from 0%in 2019 to 3.5%in 2024(P value inχ^(2)test for linear trend:<0.001),while metronidazole resistance declined from 35.5%to 13.0%(P value inχ^(2)test for linear trend:<0.001).No significant changes of amoxicillin,clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistances were observed.The dual resistances to clarithromycin plus tetracycline,and metronidazole plus tetracycline both increased significantly from 0%to 1.7%from 2019 to 2024(P value inχ^(2)test for linear trend:<0.05).Furthermore,no significant regional differences in resistance frequencies except for levofloxacin were detected.CONCLUSION Primary antibiotic resistance to tetracycline in H.pylori has increased in Taiwan of China from 2019 to 2024,while resistance to metronidazole has decreased during the same period.The dual resistance to clarithromycin plus tetracycline and metronidazole plus tetracycline both increased significantly.展开更多
Background:Recent scholarly attention has increasingly focused on filial piety beliefs'impact on youth's psychological development.However,the mechanisms by which filial piety indirectly influences adolescent ...Background:Recent scholarly attention has increasingly focused on filial piety beliefs'impact on youth's psychological development.However,the mechanisms by which filial piety indirectly influences adolescent autonomy through depression and well-being remain underexplored.This study aimed to test a sequential mediation model among filial piety beliefs,depression,well-being,and autonomy in Taiwan region of China university students.Methods:A total of 566 Taiwan region of China undergraduate and graduate students,comprising 390 females and 176 males,and including 399 undergraduates and 167 graduate students,were recruited through convenience sampling.Data were collected via an online questionnaire.Validated instruments were employed,including the Filial Piety Scale(FPS),the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale(CES-D),the Chinese Well-being Inventory(CHI),and the Adolescent Autonomy Scale-Short Form(AAS-SF).Statistical analyses included group comparisons,correlation analyses,and structural equation modeling to examine the hypothesized relationships and mediation effects.Results:The results revealed that filial piety beliefs exerted a significant positive impact on adolescent autonomy,with depression and well-being serving as key mediators in this relationship.A sequential mediation effect was confirmed through structural equation modeling(β=0.052,95%CI[0.028,0.091]),with good model fit indices(x^(2)/df=4.25,RMSEA=0.076,CFI=0.968),supporting the hypothesized pathway from filial piety to autonomy via depression and well-being.In terms of demographic differences,male students showed significantly higher autonomy than females(p<0.001);students from single-parent families reported significantly higher depression levels than those from two-parent families(p<0.05);and graduate students exhibited significantly higher autonomy and well-being than undergraduates(p<0.05).Conclusions:These findings underscore not only the importance of filial piety beliefs for developing youth autonomy but also the critical role that mental health factors,such as depression and well-being,play in this process.The study concludes with a discussion of both theoretical implications and practical recommendations.These include strategies to foster reciprocal filial piety,strengthen parent-child relationships,and promote mental health.Additionally,the study outlines its limitations and proposes directions for future research.展开更多
This study examines Taiwan’s multifaceted efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of illegal,unreported,and unregulated(IUU)fishing,a challenge that gained urgency following the European Union’s yellow card warn...This study examines Taiwan’s multifaceted efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of illegal,unreported,and unregulated(IUU)fishing,a challenge that gained urgency following the European Union’s yellow card warning.Central reforms-including gear tagging initiatives,buy-back programs,and strengthened enforcement mechanisms-aim to address illegal catches,gear laundering,and fleet overcapacity while simultaneously promoting circular economy principles in fisheries governance.The research employs Fisheries Agency data(2022-2024)on gear tagging,returns,recovered volumes,and recycling rates,combined with stakeholder interviews and market analysis of recycled fishing gear materials,to highlight the complex relationship between IUU practices and abandoned,lost,or discarded fishing gear(ALDFG).A“follow-the-plastic”methodology,adapted from waste-tracing studies,is introduced to trace gear throughout its lifecycle from production to disposal,identifying leakage points linked to IUU activities.Policy effectiveness is critically evaluated,revealing persistent regulatory gaps,weak market incentives for recycling,and barriers to private-sector participation.The study proposes a conceptual framework that demonstrates how circular economy strategies can complement traditional enforcement by reducing gear loss,enhancing traceability,and improving compliance.Findings emphasize that international cooperation,adaptive governance,and local community engagement are essential to achieving sustainable fisheries.Taiwan’s experience suggests that coupling IUU enforcement with circular economy innovations provides a practical pathway to reduce ALDFG,strengthen marine biodiversity conservation,and foster environmentally sustainable resource use.The study concludes that integrated governance,combining legal enforcement with economic and social instruments,is vital for long-term marine ecosystem protection and resilience.展开更多
BACKGROUND Liver cancer poses a significant public health threat.The difference between disease patterns and national policies is crucial to elucidating factors influencing hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)incidence.AIM T...BACKGROUND Liver cancer poses a significant public health threat.The difference between disease patterns and national policies is crucial to elucidating factors influencing hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)incidence.AIM To investigate the secular trend and disease pattern of liver cancer in Taiwan of China,Poland,and Belgium.METHODS This population-based cohort study presents the incidence,period,and cohort effects in HCC incidence between 2000 and 2019 in Taiwan of China,Poland,and Flanders,Belgium.Data on HCC were obtained from cancer registry data from Taiwan of China,Poland,and regional data from Belgium.Age-standardized incidence rates(ASIRs),annual per-centage changes,and age-period-cohort analyses were conducted by sex and period.RESULTS Taiwan of China’s ASIR decreased from 2000 to 2019(males:55.17 to 43.42,females:21.91 to 16.20,per 100000).In Poland,ASIR declined from 2000 to 2019(males:3.21 to 2.77,females:1.95 to 1.32,per 100000).However,Flanders experienced an increase in ASIR from 2000 to 2019(males:2.66 to 5.63,females:1.40 to 2.20,per 100000).In Taiwan of China,the cohort effect rate ratio increased from 1915 to 1935(males:1.02 to 1.36,females:1.04 to 1.54)and decreased from 1935 to 1989(males:1.36 to 0.22,females:1.54 to 0.20).In Poland,rate ratios consistently decreased(males:1.75 to 0.25,females:3.46 to 0.26).Flanders exhibited an increase in both males(0.14 to 2.52,1915 to 1975)and females(0.53 to 3.66,1915 to 1989).CONCLUSION Taiwan of China and Poland’s declining ASIR may be due to effective hepatitis B virus immunization and viral hepatitis therapy.Flanders’persistent increase may be tied to higher HCC risk in high hepatitis C virus risk populations.展开更多
AIM： To examine whether peanut consumption is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in a prospective cohort with a 10-year follow-up. METHODS： In 1990-1992, residents （12026 men and 11917 women aged 3...AIM： To examine whether peanut consumption is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in a prospective cohort with a 10-year follow-up. METHODS： In 1990-1992, residents （12026 men and 11917 women aged 30 to 65 years） in 7 townships, Taiwan, were interviewed and recruited into a cancerscreening cohort and annually followed up. Colorectal cancer cases in this cohort were identified from cancer registry and death certificates. Incidence rates of this disease by the end of 2001 were calculated by gender for the primary study variable and covariates. The dietary intake was assessed by means of weekly food frequency measures, including frequently consumed food groups and folk dishes including sweet potato, bean products, peanut products, pickled foodstuffs, nitrated or smoked foodstuffs. RESULTS： During the study period, 107 new colorectal cancer cases （68 men and 39 women） were confirmed. The multivariate Cox＇s proportional hazard model showed that the relative risk （RR） of peanut consumption was 0.73 [95% confidence interval （CI） = 0.44-1.21] for men and 0.42 （95% CI = 0.21-0.84） for women. However, frequent intake of pickled foodstuffs was harmful for women （RR= 2.15, 95% CI=0.99-4.65）. The risk of colorectal cancer was also elevated among cigarette smokers but not significant （P〈 0.05）.CONCLUSION： This study suggests that frequent intake of peanut and its products may reduce colorectal cancer risk in women, demonstrating the anti-proliferating effect of peanut intake.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the effects of OGG1(Ser326Cys, 11657A/G, and Arg154His) and APE1(Asp148Glu, and T-656G) polymorphisms on colorectal cancer(CRC) risk.METHODS: We enrolled 727 cases newly diagnosed with colorectal aden...AIM: To evaluate the effects of OGG1(Ser326Cys, 11657A/G, and Arg154His) and APE1(Asp148Glu, and T-656G) polymorphisms on colorectal cancer(CRC) risk.METHODS: We enrolled 727 cases newly diagnosed with colorectal adenocarcinoma and 736 age- and sex-matched healthy controls from a medical center in Taiwan. Genomic DNA isolated from the buffy coat was used for genotyping through polymerase chain reaction. Unconditional logistic regressions were used for calculating ORs and 95%CIs to determine the association between the genetic polymorphisms and CRC risk. Haplotype frequencies were estimated using PHASE software. Moreover, stratification analyses onthe basis of sex, age at diagnosis, and tumor subsite and stage were performed.RESULTS: The CRC risk was higher in patients with the OGG1 326Ser/Cys + Cys/Cys genotype(OR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.03-1.85, P = 0.030), particularly high in patients with stage Ⅲ + Ⅳ cancer(OR = 1.48, 95%CI: 1.03-2.13) compared with patients with the Ser/Ser genotype. In addition, OGG1 11657 G allele carriers had a 41% reduced CRC risk among stage 0-Ⅱ patients(OR = 0.59, 95%CI: 0.35-0.98). The CRC risk was significantly higher among females with the APE1 Glu allele(OR = 1.41, 95%CI: 1.02-1.96). The APE1 148Glu/-656 G haplotype was also associated with a significant CRC risk in females(OR = 1.36, 95%CI: 1.03-1.78).CONCLUSION: OGG1 and APE1 polymorphisms are associated with stage- and sex-specific risk of CRC in the Taiwan Residents population.展开更多
BACKGROUND Barrett’s esophagus(BE)is a pre-malignant condition associated with the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma.The prevalence of BE in the general populations of Asian countries ranges from 0.06%to 1%.Ho...BACKGROUND Barrett’s esophagus(BE)is a pre-malignant condition associated with the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma.The prevalence of BE in the general populations of Asian countries ranges from 0.06%to 1%.However,with lifestyle changes in Asian countries and adoption of western customs,the prevalence of BE might have increased.AIM To determine the current prevalence of BE in Taiwan,and to investigate risk factors predicting the presence of BE.METHODS This retrospective study was conducted at the Health Evaluation Center of Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan.Between January 2015 and December 2015,3385 subjects undergoing routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy examinations as part of a health check-up at the Health Evaluation Center were included.Patient characteristics and endoscopic findings were carefully reviewed.Lesions with endoscopic findings consistent with BE awaiting histological evaluation were judged as endoscopically suspected esophageal metaplasia(ESEM).BE was defined based on extension of the columnar epithelium≥1 cm above the gastroesophageal junction and was confirmed based on the presence of specialized intestinal metaplasia(IM)in the metaplastic esophageal epithelium.Clinical factors of subjects with BE and subjects without BE were compared,and the risk factors predicting BE were analyzed.RESULTS A total of 3385 subjects(mean age,51.29±11.42 years;57.1%male)were included in the study,and 89 among them were confirmed to have IM and presence of goblet cells via biopsy examination.The majority of these individuals were classified as short segment BE(n=85).The overall prevalence of BE was 2.6%.Multivariate analysis disclosed that old age[odds ratio(OR)=1.033;95%confidence interval(CI):1.012-1.055;P=0.002],male gender(OR=2.106;95%CI:1.145-3.872;P=0.017),ingestion of tea(OR=1.695;95%CI:1.043-2.754;P=0.033),and presence of hiatal hernia(OR=3.037;95%CI:1.765-5.225;P<0.001)were significant risk factors predicting BE.The independent risk factor for the presence of IM in ESEM lesions was old age alone(OR=1.029;95%CI:1.006-1.053;P=0.014).CONCLUSION Current prevalence of BE among the general population in Taiwan is 2.6%.Old age,male gender,ingestion of tea and hiatal hernia are significant risk factors for BE.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the risk association and compare the onset age of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) patients in Taiwan with different genotypes of MDM2- SNP309. METHODS:We analyzed MDM2-SNP309 genotypes from 58 patient...AIM:To investigate the risk association and compare the onset age of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) patients in Taiwan with different genotypes of MDM2- SNP309. METHODS:We analyzed MDM2-SNP309 genotypes from 58 patients with HCC and 138 cancer-free healthy controls consecutively.Genotyping of MDM2-SNP309 was conducted by restriction fragment length polymor- phism assay. RESULTS:The proportion of homozygous MDM2- SNP309 genotype(G/G)in cases and cancer-free healthy controls was similar(17.2%vs 16.7%).Multi-variate analysis showed that the risk of G/G genotypeof MDM2-SNP309 vs wild-type T/T genotype in patients with HCC was not significant(OR=1.265,95% CI=0.074-21.77)after adjustment for sex,hepatitis B or C virus infection,age,and cardiovascular disease/ diabetes.Nevertheless,there was a trend that GG genotype of MDM2-SNP309 might increase the risk in HCC patients infected with hepatitis virus(OR=2.568, 95%CI=0.054-121.69).Besides,the homozygous MDM2-SNP309 genotype did not exhibit a significantly earlier age of onset for HCC. CONCLUSION:Current data suggest that the asso- ciation between MDM2-SNP309 GG genotype and HCC is not significant,while the risk may be enhanced in patients infected by hepatitis virus in Taiwan.展开更多
AIM： To assess the effectiveness and safety of ranibizumab 0.5 mg in Taiwan Residents patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy（PCV） by performing a retrospective exploratory subgroup analysis of the REAL stu...AIM： To assess the effectiveness and safety of ranibizumab 0.5 mg in Taiwan Residents patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy（PCV） by performing a retrospective exploratory subgroup analysis of the REAL study.METHODS： REAL was a 12-month, observational, prospective, non-interventional phase IV post-marketing surveillance study conducted at 9 centers in Taiwan. The study collected data as part of the routine patient visits from the medical records of patients with neovascular agerelated macular degeneration treated with ranibizumab 0.5 mg according to local standard medical practice and local label and/or reimbursement guidelines. The presence of PCV at baseline was determined using indocy received prior tanine green angiography. RESULTS： At baseline, PCV was diagnosed in 64 of the 303 enrolled patients（21.1%）. Of these, 41 patients（64.1%） hadreatment; 15（23.4%） patients had received ranibizumab. The intent-to-treat population included 58 patients; 47（80%） who received ranibizumab and 11（20%） who received ranibizumab plus photodynamic therapy（PDT; 9 patients received once, 2 patients received twice）. Bevacizumab was used as a concomitant medication in a similar percentage of patients who received ranibizumab（43%, n=20） or ranibizumab plus PDT（45%, n=5）. In patients who received ranibizumab, visual acuity（VA） at baseline was 50.1±12.9 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters, and the gain at month 12 was 1.1±17.8 letters. In patients who received ranibizumab plus PDT, VA at baseline was 51.4±15.9 letters, and there was a marked gain in VA at month 12（14.0±9.2 letters, P=0.0009）. In the intent-totreat population, the reduction in central retinal subfield thickness from baseline at month 12 was 69.6±122.6 μm（baseline： 310.8±109.8 μm, P=0.0004）. The safety results were consistent with the well-characterized safety profile of ranibizumab.CONCLUSION： In real-world settings, ranibizumab 0.5 mg treatment for 12 mo results in maintenance of VA and reduction in central retinal subfield thickness in Taiwan Residents patients with PCV. Improvements in VA are observed in patients who received ranibizumab plus PDT. There are no new safety findings.展开更多
Anatomical data regarding the climbing modes and cambial variants of the stem transverse section in the Menispermaceae in Taiwan are lacking. Here, we examined the climbing modes and anomalous structure of climber ste...Anatomical data regarding the climbing modes and cambial variants of the stem transverse section in the Menispermaceae in Taiwan are lacking. Here, we examined the climbing modes and anomalous structure of climber stems in this family. Reviewing the previous reports of cambial variants in angiosperm liana families, a list of angiosperm liana families processing specified types of cambial variants and the terms based on description for the transverse section of a stem were provided. The results show that Cocculus laurifolius DC. is a shrub, Stephania cephalantha Hayata and Stephania longa Lour. are vines, and the remaining 13 species are lianas. In all species, the climbing mode was twining and dextrorse stems. The anomalous structure of the stem comprised successive cambia in Cocculus laurifolius, a combination of xylem in plates and dissected xylem in Cocculus orbiculatus (L.) DC., and xylem in plates in the remaining 14 species. In the genus Cyclea, parenchyma proliferation from the secondary xylem resulted in the development of 1 - 3 linear lobes in each collateral vascular bundle. The vessel diameter of C. laurifolius is <50 μm which is the smallest size due to shrub in its life stage. C. orbiculatus had the longest collateral vascular bundles, longest rays and widest rays. Cyclea ochiaiana (Yamam.) S. F. Huang & T. C. Huang had the widest collateral vascular bundles. Sinomenium acutum (Thunb.) Rehder & E. H. Wilson had the highest vessel density. Tinospora crispa (L.) Hook. F. et Thoms develops blunt tubercles on the epidermis and Stephania tetrandra S. Moore bears conspicuous phellem layer. Those findings, such as the climbing mode, the features of parenchyma proliferation, the features of collateral vascular bundles (number, width, length), dimorphic vessels, and size and density of vessels, highlight new anatomical characteristics for species identification in the Menispermaceae in Taiwan.展开更多
The cored sediments sampled by R/V Marion Dufrense in the active margin off southwestern Taiwan on the east side of the Manila Trench are mostly muds consisting mainly of quartz, feldspar, illite, chlorite ＋ kaolinit...The cored sediments sampled by R/V Marion Dufrense in the active margin off southwestern Taiwan on the east side of the Manila Trench are mostly muds consisting mainly of quartz, feldspar, illite, chlorite ＋ kaolinite with a trace amount of montmorillonite. The cored sediments have higher Fe, Ti, Cr, Cs, Li, Ni, and V but lower Ca, Na, Mn, Hf, Nb, Sr, Ta, U and Zr contents when compared with the upper continental crust（UCC, Taylor and McLennan, 1985）. The Eu/Eu＊ ratios of the sediments averaging 0.69 indicate that the recycling effect on the Eu anomaly may be minor and the contribution of mafic source rock was unimportant, which can also be depicted in the La-Th-Sc plot（Cullers, 1994） showing a ＂mixed origin＂ close to the felsic end member. The chemistry of the cored sediment can be explained by a mixing model designed by Ho and Chen（1996） with four end members i.e., greywacke, shale, quartzite and limestone, which are widely distributed in the Cenozoic formations of southern Taiwan with greywacke as the dominant contributor followed by shale.展开更多
The argument of this study is that social capital is a key factor of health literacy. Data came from an island-wide sample. Position generator was adopted to measure social capital. A regression model is constructed t...The argument of this study is that social capital is a key factor of health literacy. Data came from an island-wide sample. Position generator was adopted to measure social capital. A regression model is constructed to test the social capital which is known as a robust predictor of health literacy after controlling gender, age, education, income, and health communication ability. The results reveal that female, higher education, and better health communication ability are also correlated with health literacy. Implications for public health are discussed.展开更多
<span style="font-family:Verdana;">This study was used</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> to</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><...<span style="font-family:Verdana;">This study was used</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> to</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> lift nets and trap net fishing at intertidal zone of lagoon and estuarine regions of southern Taiwan. From July 2013 to July 2018, a total 420 specimens of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Pisodonophis</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> were analyzed, the average total body length (TL) and average body weight (W) of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> eels are 68.4 ± 11.9 cm and 140.4 ± 86.1 g (N = 194), respectively. Typically, </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> eels are smaller (TL = 52.8 ± 9.2 cm) and lighter (W = 107.9 ± 73.7 g [N = 119]) than </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> eels. The natural logarithmic linear relationships between the TL and W of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> are respectively expressed as ln(W)</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">b</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 2.4405 ln(TL) <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span> 5.4448 (R</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.796, N = 194) and ln(W)</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">c</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 3.2168 ln(TL) <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span> 8.2027, (</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">R</span></i><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.934, N= 119). </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> typically preys on shrimp, crab, and fish;lab assessment revealed that the frequencies of occurrence of these foods in their guts were 49%, 21%, and 15%, respectively (N = 100). The main catch months of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> were during the rainy season, and that of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> were the winter season in Taiwan. The average W values of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> from Jhuoshuei and Puzih estuaries were 343.2 ± 218.8 g (N = 91) and 140.4 ± 86.1 g (N = 194), respectively. Furthermore, the results of the study revealed that the Puzih estuary is overfished. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">We suggest that fishery management units should develop some protection measures for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems in estuarine regions. For example, </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">the </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> weighing less than 113 g will be released back to the estuary.</span></span>展开更多
Based on the analysis of newly collected data of plate tectonics, distribution of active faults and crustal deformation, the Taiwan Region is divided into two seismic regions and six seismic belts. Then, correlation f...Based on the analysis of newly collected data of plate tectonics, distribution of active faults and crustal deformation, the Taiwan Region is divided into two seismic regions and six seismic belts. Then, correlation fractal dimensions of all the regions and belts are calculated, and the fractal characteristics of hypocenteral distribution can be quantitatively analyzed. Finally, multifractal dimensions D q and f(α) are calculated by using the earthquake catalog of the past 11 years in the Taiwan Region. This study indicates that (1) there exists a favorable corresponding relationship between spatial images of seismic activity described with correlation fractal dimension analysis and tectonic settings; (2) the temporal structure of earthquakes is not single but multifractal fractal, and the pattern of D q variation with time is a good indicator for predicting strong earthquake events.展开更多
基金Supported by National Science and Technology Council,Taiwan,No.MOST 111-2629-H-227-001-MY2.
文摘BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence(IPV)is a major public health concern linked to psychiatric and physical morbidity.However,evidence from East Asia,particularly from registry-based and sex-inclusive analyses,remains limited.We hypothesized that IPV survivors would have elevated risks of psychiatric disorders and stressrelated physical conditions.AIM To assess psychiatric and physical health risks following IPV exposure in Taiwan.METHODS We conducted a nationwide,registry-based case control study using data from Taiwan’s Health and Welfare Data Science Center.Adults aged 18-64 years with a first IPV report in 2019(n=43393)were matched 1:1 by sex and age to controls.Incident diagnoses within 1 year were identified from claims data.Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios(AORs).RESULTS Compared to controls,IPV survivors had higher risks of depressive disorders[AOR=4.18,95%confidence interval(CI):3.78-4.60,P<0.001],bipolar disorder(AOR=4.81,95%CI:3.83-6.10,P<0.001),schizophrenia(AOR=1.75,95%CI:1.46-2.10,P<0.001),and alcohol/substance use disorders(AOR=5.98,95%CI:2.21-8.50,P<0.001).The risk of asthma was modestly elevated(AOR=1.31,95%CI:1.08-1.60,P=0.006).No significant association was observed for irritable bowel syndrome(P=0.94).CONCLUSION IPV survivors in Taiwan face substantially increased psychiatric risk and a modestly elevated risk of asthma,warranting early screening and integrated mental and physical health care.
文摘The recovery of Taiwan was the victorious outcome of the joint resistance against Japanese aggression by compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.Taiwan's return to China was an important part of the post-war international order,and irrefutable historical evidence that both sides of the Strait belong to one and the same China.It proclaims the prevailing trend that both sides of the Taiwan Strait must and will be reunified.Lai Ching-te and the Democratic Progressive Party(DPP)authorities'attempts to downplay and distort the history of Taiwan's recovery cannot overturn the historical and legal fact that Taiwan is part of China.National reunification is a prevailing trend of China's historical development,an essential requirement for the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,and will be a sure result of China's development and progress.Compatriots on both sides of the Strait should remember the history of Taiwan's recovery and return to the motherland,firmly safeguard state sovereignty and territorial integrity,and resolutely oppose"Taiwan independence"separatist acts.The international community should also be fully aware of and show understanding for the confidence and determination of the Chinese people to achieve China's complete reunification.
基金Supported by Ministry of Science and Technology,Taiwan,No.MOST 111-2314-B-002-226Taiwan University Hospital,Hsin-Chu Branch,No.112-BIH017The Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation,Taiwan.
文摘BACKGROUND Anti-drug antibodies(ADAs)can reduce the effectiveness of biologics.While human leukocyte antigen(HLA)-DQA1*05 allele is linked to ADA formation in European Crohn’s disease patients,its relevance in non-European populations remains unclear.AIM To investigate HLA genotypes associated with the development of ADAs in Taiwan Region of China inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)patients treated with biologics.METHODS In this multicenter study,IBD patients treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor(TNF),anti-integrin,or anti-interleukin(IL)-12/23 therapies from April 2022 to June 2024 were enrolled.All participants underwent next-generation sequencing for HLA genotyping.ADA levels were measured via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.HLA allele frequencies were compared between ADA-positive and ADA-negative groups,and against general Taiwan Region of China population data.RESULTS Ninety-five IBD patients were included:58 received anti-TNF therapy(38 infliximab,20 adalimumab),27 antiintegrin,and 10 anti-IL-12/23.ADAs occurred only in the anti-TNF group(n=22):19 infliximab(50%)and 3 adalimumab(15%).No ADAs developed in patients on anti-integrin or anti-IL-12/23 agents.HLA-C*03:04:01 was significantly associated with anti-infliximab ADAs(31.6%vs 0%,P=0.02),and HLA-B*15:18:01 with anti-adalimumab ADAs(66.7%vs 0%,P=0.016).HLA-DQA1*05 was not associated with ADA formation.Frequencies of HLA-C*03:04:01(8.4%vs 10.5%)and HLA-B*15:18:01(1.6%vs 0.6%)in IBD patients were comparable to those in the general population.ADA titers were inversely correlated with serum drug levels.CONCLUSION In Taiwan Region of China IBD patients,HLA-C*03:04:01 and HLA-B*15:18:01 were significantly associated with ADA development to infliximab and adalimumab,respectively.HLA-DQA1*05 was not predictive,highlighting ethnic differences in genetic predisposition to immunogenicity.
基金Supported by The Far Eastern Memorial Hospital,No.FEMH-2022-C-015,No.FEMH-2022-C-017 and No.FEMH-2023-C-082.
文摘BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C and alcoholic liver disease are the principal causes of hepaticrelated morbidity and mortality.However,evidence of the associations between diabetes without the above risk factors and hepatic-related study endpoints is not well understood.In addition,the effects of associated metabolic dysfunction and exercise on hepatic outcomes are still not clear.AIM To investigate the incidence and relative hazards of cirrhosis of the liver,hepato cellular carcinoma(HCC),hepatic-related complications and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes(T2D)who were nonalcoholic and serologically negative for hepatitis B and C in Taiwan,China.METHODS A total of 33184 T2D patients and 648746 nondiabetic subjects selected from Taiwan’s,China adult preventive health care service were linked to various National Health Insurance databases,cancer registry,and death registry to identify cirrhosis of the liver,HCC,hepatic-related complications,and mortality.The Poisson assumption and Cox proportional hazard regression model were used to estimate the incidences and relative hazards of all hepatic-related study endpoints,respectively.We also compared the risk of hepatic outcomes stratified by age,sex,associated metabolic dysfunctions,and regular exercise between T2D patients and nondiabetic subjects.RESULTS Compared with nondiabetic subjects,T2D patients had a significantly greater incidence(6.32 vs 17.20 per 10000 person-years)and greater risk of cirrhosis of the liver[adjusted hazard ratio(aHR)1.45;95%CI:1.30-1.62].The aHRs for HCC,hepatic complications,and mortality were 1.81,1.87,and 2.08,respectively.An older age,male sex,obesity,hypertension,and dyslipidemia further increased the risks of all hepatic-related study endpoints,and regular exercise decreased the risk,irrespective of diabetes status.CONCLUSION Patients with T2D are at increased risk of cirrhosis of the liver,HCC,hepatic-related complications,and mortality,and associated metabolic dysfunctions provide additional hazard.Coordinated interprofessional care for high-risk T2D patients and diabetes education,with an emphasis on the importance of physical activity,are crucial for minimizing hepatic outcomes.
基金Supported by the An Nan Hospital,China Medical University,No.ANHRF114-20 and No.ANHRF114-21.
文摘BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance significantly impacts the treatment failure rates of Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infections.AIM To investigate the trends in primary antibiotic resistance of H.pylori in Taiwan of China over the past six years.METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of H.pylori isolates from Taiwan residents,China who had not undergone previous treatments(n=1408),collected between January 1,2019 and December 31,2024.Susceptibility of these strains to amoxicillin,clarithromycin,levofloxacin,metronidazole,and tetracycline was tested using the Epsilometer test.We analyzed the trends in single and dual resistance profiles over the study period,and compared antibiotic resistance across different regions(northern,southern and eastern areas)of Taiwan of China.RESULTS The overall resistance rates for H.pylori to amoxicillin,clarithromycin,metronidazole,tetracycline,and levofloxacin in Taiwan of China were 1.3%,18.0%,31.0%,0.8%,and 28.7%,respectively.Tetracycline resistance increased significantly from 0%in 2019 to 3.5%in 2024(P value inχ^(2)test for linear trend:<0.001),while metronidazole resistance declined from 35.5%to 13.0%(P value inχ^(2)test for linear trend:<0.001).No significant changes of amoxicillin,clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistances were observed.The dual resistances to clarithromycin plus tetracycline,and metronidazole plus tetracycline both increased significantly from 0%to 1.7%from 2019 to 2024(P value inχ^(2)test for linear trend:<0.05).Furthermore,no significant regional differences in resistance frequencies except for levofloxacin were detected.CONCLUSION Primary antibiotic resistance to tetracycline in H.pylori has increased in Taiwan of China from 2019 to 2024,while resistance to metronidazole has decreased during the same period.The dual resistance to clarithromycin plus tetracycline and metronidazole plus tetracycline both increased significantly.
文摘Background:Recent scholarly attention has increasingly focused on filial piety beliefs'impact on youth's psychological development.However,the mechanisms by which filial piety indirectly influences adolescent autonomy through depression and well-being remain underexplored.This study aimed to test a sequential mediation model among filial piety beliefs,depression,well-being,and autonomy in Taiwan region of China university students.Methods:A total of 566 Taiwan region of China undergraduate and graduate students,comprising 390 females and 176 males,and including 399 undergraduates and 167 graduate students,were recruited through convenience sampling.Data were collected via an online questionnaire.Validated instruments were employed,including the Filial Piety Scale(FPS),the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale(CES-D),the Chinese Well-being Inventory(CHI),and the Adolescent Autonomy Scale-Short Form(AAS-SF).Statistical analyses included group comparisons,correlation analyses,and structural equation modeling to examine the hypothesized relationships and mediation effects.Results:The results revealed that filial piety beliefs exerted a significant positive impact on adolescent autonomy,with depression and well-being serving as key mediators in this relationship.A sequential mediation effect was confirmed through structural equation modeling(β=0.052,95%CI[0.028,0.091]),with good model fit indices(x^(2)/df=4.25,RMSEA=0.076,CFI=0.968),supporting the hypothesized pathway from filial piety to autonomy via depression and well-being.In terms of demographic differences,male students showed significantly higher autonomy than females(p<0.001);students from single-parent families reported significantly higher depression levels than those from two-parent families(p<0.05);and graduate students exhibited significantly higher autonomy and well-being than undergraduates(p<0.05).Conclusions:These findings underscore not only the importance of filial piety beliefs for developing youth autonomy but also the critical role that mental health factors,such as depression and well-being,play in this process.The study concludes with a discussion of both theoretical implications and practical recommendations.These include strategies to foster reciprocal filial piety,strengthen parent-child relationships,and promote mental health.Additionally,the study outlines its limitations and proposes directions for future research.
基金Taiwan National Science and Technology Council financed this study(NSTC 112-2410-H-006-099,NSTC 114-2410-H-006-108-).
文摘This study examines Taiwan’s multifaceted efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of illegal,unreported,and unregulated(IUU)fishing,a challenge that gained urgency following the European Union’s yellow card warning.Central reforms-including gear tagging initiatives,buy-back programs,and strengthened enforcement mechanisms-aim to address illegal catches,gear laundering,and fleet overcapacity while simultaneously promoting circular economy principles in fisheries governance.The research employs Fisheries Agency data(2022-2024)on gear tagging,returns,recovered volumes,and recycling rates,combined with stakeholder interviews and market analysis of recycled fishing gear materials,to highlight the complex relationship between IUU practices and abandoned,lost,or discarded fishing gear(ALDFG).A“follow-the-plastic”methodology,adapted from waste-tracing studies,is introduced to trace gear throughout its lifecycle from production to disposal,identifying leakage points linked to IUU activities.Policy effectiveness is critically evaluated,revealing persistent regulatory gaps,weak market incentives for recycling,and barriers to private-sector participation.The study proposes a conceptual framework that demonstrates how circular economy strategies can complement traditional enforcement by reducing gear loss,enhancing traceability,and improving compliance.Findings emphasize that international cooperation,adaptive governance,and local community engagement are essential to achieving sustainable fisheries.Taiwan’s experience suggests that coupling IUU enforcement with circular economy innovations provides a practical pathway to reduce ALDFG,strengthen marine biodiversity conservation,and foster environmentally sustainable resource use.The study concludes that integrated governance,combining legal enforcement with economic and social instruments,is vital for long-term marine ecosystem protection and resilience.
文摘BACKGROUND Liver cancer poses a significant public health threat.The difference between disease patterns and national policies is crucial to elucidating factors influencing hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)incidence.AIM To investigate the secular trend and disease pattern of liver cancer in Taiwan of China,Poland,and Belgium.METHODS This population-based cohort study presents the incidence,period,and cohort effects in HCC incidence between 2000 and 2019 in Taiwan of China,Poland,and Flanders,Belgium.Data on HCC were obtained from cancer registry data from Taiwan of China,Poland,and regional data from Belgium.Age-standardized incidence rates(ASIRs),annual per-centage changes,and age-period-cohort analyses were conducted by sex and period.RESULTS Taiwan of China’s ASIR decreased from 2000 to 2019(males:55.17 to 43.42,females:21.91 to 16.20,per 100000).In Poland,ASIR declined from 2000 to 2019(males:3.21 to 2.77,females:1.95 to 1.32,per 100000).However,Flanders experienced an increase in ASIR from 2000 to 2019(males:2.66 to 5.63,females:1.40 to 2.20,per 100000).In Taiwan of China,the cohort effect rate ratio increased from 1915 to 1935(males:1.02 to 1.36,females:1.04 to 1.54)and decreased from 1935 to 1989(males:1.36 to 0.22,females:1.54 to 0.20).In Poland,rate ratios consistently decreased(males:1.75 to 0.25,females:3.46 to 0.26).Flanders exhibited an increase in both males(0.14 to 2.52,1915 to 1975)and females(0.53 to 3.66,1915 to 1989).CONCLUSION Taiwan of China and Poland’s declining ASIR may be due to effective hepatitis B virus immunization and viral hepatitis therapy.Flanders’persistent increase may be tied to higher HCC risk in high hepatitis C virus risk populations.
基金Supported by the Grant NSC 2000-2314-B-002-373, NSC 2001-2320-B-002-123 and NSC 2002-2320-B-002-121 from the National Science Council, Taipei, Taiwan, China
文摘AIM： To examine whether peanut consumption is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in a prospective cohort with a 10-year follow-up. METHODS： In 1990-1992, residents （12026 men and 11917 women aged 30 to 65 years） in 7 townships, Taiwan, were interviewed and recruited into a cancerscreening cohort and annually followed up. Colorectal cancer cases in this cohort were identified from cancer registry and death certificates. Incidence rates of this disease by the end of 2001 were calculated by gender for the primary study variable and covariates. The dietary intake was assessed by means of weekly food frequency measures, including frequently consumed food groups and folk dishes including sweet potato, bean products, peanut products, pickled foodstuffs, nitrated or smoked foodstuffs. RESULTS： During the study period, 107 new colorectal cancer cases （68 men and 39 women） were confirmed. The multivariate Cox＇s proportional hazard model showed that the relative risk （RR） of peanut consumption was 0.73 [95% confidence interval （CI） = 0.44-1.21] for men and 0.42 （95% CI = 0.21-0.84） for women. However, frequent intake of pickled foodstuffs was harmful for women （RR= 2.15, 95% CI=0.99-4.65）. The risk of colorectal cancer was also elevated among cigarette smokers but not significant （P〈 0.05）.CONCLUSION： This study suggests that frequent intake of peanut and its products may reduce colorectal cancer risk in women, demonstrating the anti-proliferating effect of peanut intake.
基金Supported by Chang Gung Memorial Hospital,No.CMRPD190071,No.CMRPD190072 and No.CMRPD190073NIEHS center,No.P30 ES009089
文摘AIM: To evaluate the effects of OGG1(Ser326Cys, 11657A/G, and Arg154His) and APE1(Asp148Glu, and T-656G) polymorphisms on colorectal cancer(CRC) risk.METHODS: We enrolled 727 cases newly diagnosed with colorectal adenocarcinoma and 736 age- and sex-matched healthy controls from a medical center in Taiwan. Genomic DNA isolated from the buffy coat was used for genotyping through polymerase chain reaction. Unconditional logistic regressions were used for calculating ORs and 95%CIs to determine the association between the genetic polymorphisms and CRC risk. Haplotype frequencies were estimated using PHASE software. Moreover, stratification analyses onthe basis of sex, age at diagnosis, and tumor subsite and stage were performed.RESULTS: The CRC risk was higher in patients with the OGG1 326Ser/Cys + Cys/Cys genotype(OR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.03-1.85, P = 0.030), particularly high in patients with stage Ⅲ + Ⅳ cancer(OR = 1.48, 95%CI: 1.03-2.13) compared with patients with the Ser/Ser genotype. In addition, OGG1 11657 G allele carriers had a 41% reduced CRC risk among stage 0-Ⅱ patients(OR = 0.59, 95%CI: 0.35-0.98). The CRC risk was significantly higher among females with the APE1 Glu allele(OR = 1.41, 95%CI: 1.02-1.96). The APE1 148Glu/-656 G haplotype was also associated with a significant CRC risk in females(OR = 1.36, 95%CI: 1.03-1.78).CONCLUSION: OGG1 and APE1 polymorphisms are associated with stage- and sex-specific risk of CRC in the Taiwan Residents population.
基金Supported by the In-Hospital Research Project Funding of Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital,No.VGHKS107-040
文摘BACKGROUND Barrett’s esophagus(BE)is a pre-malignant condition associated with the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma.The prevalence of BE in the general populations of Asian countries ranges from 0.06%to 1%.However,with lifestyle changes in Asian countries and adoption of western customs,the prevalence of BE might have increased.AIM To determine the current prevalence of BE in Taiwan,and to investigate risk factors predicting the presence of BE.METHODS This retrospective study was conducted at the Health Evaluation Center of Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan.Between January 2015 and December 2015,3385 subjects undergoing routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy examinations as part of a health check-up at the Health Evaluation Center were included.Patient characteristics and endoscopic findings were carefully reviewed.Lesions with endoscopic findings consistent with BE awaiting histological evaluation were judged as endoscopically suspected esophageal metaplasia(ESEM).BE was defined based on extension of the columnar epithelium≥1 cm above the gastroesophageal junction and was confirmed based on the presence of specialized intestinal metaplasia(IM)in the metaplastic esophageal epithelium.Clinical factors of subjects with BE and subjects without BE were compared,and the risk factors predicting BE were analyzed.RESULTS A total of 3385 subjects(mean age,51.29±11.42 years;57.1%male)were included in the study,and 89 among them were confirmed to have IM and presence of goblet cells via biopsy examination.The majority of these individuals were classified as short segment BE(n=85).The overall prevalence of BE was 2.6%.Multivariate analysis disclosed that old age[odds ratio(OR)=1.033;95%confidence interval(CI):1.012-1.055;P=0.002],male gender(OR=2.106;95%CI:1.145-3.872;P=0.017),ingestion of tea(OR=1.695;95%CI:1.043-2.754;P=0.033),and presence of hiatal hernia(OR=3.037;95%CI:1.765-5.225;P<0.001)were significant risk factors predicting BE.The independent risk factor for the presence of IM in ESEM lesions was old age alone(OR=1.029;95%CI:1.006-1.053;P=0.014).CONCLUSION Current prevalence of BE among the general population in Taiwan is 2.6%.Old age,male gender,ingestion of tea and hiatal hernia are significant risk factors for BE.
基金Supported by The Department of Health in Taipei City Government,Grant No.95003-62-129a grant from Ministry of Education,aim for the Top University PlanNational Science Council Grant(NSC 96-2321-B-010-006-MY3)
文摘AIM:To investigate the risk association and compare the onset age of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) patients in Taiwan with different genotypes of MDM2- SNP309. METHODS:We analyzed MDM2-SNP309 genotypes from 58 patients with HCC and 138 cancer-free healthy controls consecutively.Genotyping of MDM2-SNP309 was conducted by restriction fragment length polymor- phism assay. RESULTS:The proportion of homozygous MDM2- SNP309 genotype(G/G)in cases and cancer-free healthy controls was similar(17.2%vs 16.7%).Multi-variate analysis showed that the risk of G/G genotypeof MDM2-SNP309 vs wild-type T/T genotype in patients with HCC was not significant(OR=1.265,95% CI=0.074-21.77)after adjustment for sex,hepatitis B or C virus infection,age,and cardiovascular disease/ diabetes.Nevertheless,there was a trend that GG genotype of MDM2-SNP309 might increase the risk in HCC patients infected with hepatitis virus(OR=2.568, 95%CI=0.054-121.69).Besides,the homozygous MDM2-SNP309 genotype did not exhibit a significantly earlier age of onset for HCC. CONCLUSION:Current data suggest that the asso- ciation between MDM2-SNP309 GG genotype and HCC is not significant,while the risk may be enhanced in patients infected by hepatitis virus in Taiwan.
文摘AIM： To assess the effectiveness and safety of ranibizumab 0.5 mg in Taiwan Residents patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy（PCV） by performing a retrospective exploratory subgroup analysis of the REAL study.METHODS： REAL was a 12-month, observational, prospective, non-interventional phase IV post-marketing surveillance study conducted at 9 centers in Taiwan. The study collected data as part of the routine patient visits from the medical records of patients with neovascular agerelated macular degeneration treated with ranibizumab 0.5 mg according to local standard medical practice and local label and/or reimbursement guidelines. The presence of PCV at baseline was determined using indocy received prior tanine green angiography. RESULTS： At baseline, PCV was diagnosed in 64 of the 303 enrolled patients（21.1%）. Of these, 41 patients（64.1%） hadreatment; 15（23.4%） patients had received ranibizumab. The intent-to-treat population included 58 patients; 47（80%） who received ranibizumab and 11（20%） who received ranibizumab plus photodynamic therapy（PDT; 9 patients received once, 2 patients received twice）. Bevacizumab was used as a concomitant medication in a similar percentage of patients who received ranibizumab（43%, n=20） or ranibizumab plus PDT（45%, n=5）. In patients who received ranibizumab, visual acuity（VA） at baseline was 50.1±12.9 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters, and the gain at month 12 was 1.1±17.8 letters. In patients who received ranibizumab plus PDT, VA at baseline was 51.4±15.9 letters, and there was a marked gain in VA at month 12（14.0±9.2 letters, P=0.0009）. In the intent-totreat population, the reduction in central retinal subfield thickness from baseline at month 12 was 69.6±122.6 μm（baseline： 310.8±109.8 μm, P=0.0004）. The safety results were consistent with the well-characterized safety profile of ranibizumab.CONCLUSION： In real-world settings, ranibizumab 0.5 mg treatment for 12 mo results in maintenance of VA and reduction in central retinal subfield thickness in Taiwan Residents patients with PCV. Improvements in VA are observed in patients who received ranibizumab plus PDT. There are no new safety findings.
文摘Anatomical data regarding the climbing modes and cambial variants of the stem transverse section in the Menispermaceae in Taiwan are lacking. Here, we examined the climbing modes and anomalous structure of climber stems in this family. Reviewing the previous reports of cambial variants in angiosperm liana families, a list of angiosperm liana families processing specified types of cambial variants and the terms based on description for the transverse section of a stem were provided. The results show that Cocculus laurifolius DC. is a shrub, Stephania cephalantha Hayata and Stephania longa Lour. are vines, and the remaining 13 species are lianas. In all species, the climbing mode was twining and dextrorse stems. The anomalous structure of the stem comprised successive cambia in Cocculus laurifolius, a combination of xylem in plates and dissected xylem in Cocculus orbiculatus (L.) DC., and xylem in plates in the remaining 14 species. In the genus Cyclea, parenchyma proliferation from the secondary xylem resulted in the development of 1 - 3 linear lobes in each collateral vascular bundle. The vessel diameter of C. laurifolius is <50 μm which is the smallest size due to shrub in its life stage. C. orbiculatus had the longest collateral vascular bundles, longest rays and widest rays. Cyclea ochiaiana (Yamam.) S. F. Huang & T. C. Huang had the widest collateral vascular bundles. Sinomenium acutum (Thunb.) Rehder & E. H. Wilson had the highest vessel density. Tinospora crispa (L.) Hook. F. et Thoms develops blunt tubercles on the epidermis and Stephania tetrandra S. Moore bears conspicuous phellem layer. Those findings, such as the climbing mode, the features of parenchyma proliferation, the features of collateral vascular bundles (number, width, length), dimorphic vessels, and size and density of vessels, highlight new anatomical characteristics for species identification in the Menispermaceae in Taiwan.
基金supported by the Central Geological Survey of the Ministry of Economic Affairs under grant 5226902000-05-94-02, No. NRF-2012R1A1A2005044 and 5226902000-95-02
文摘The cored sediments sampled by R/V Marion Dufrense in the active margin off southwestern Taiwan on the east side of the Manila Trench are mostly muds consisting mainly of quartz, feldspar, illite, chlorite ＋ kaolinite with a trace amount of montmorillonite. The cored sediments have higher Fe, Ti, Cr, Cs, Li, Ni, and V but lower Ca, Na, Mn, Hf, Nb, Sr, Ta, U and Zr contents when compared with the upper continental crust（UCC, Taylor and McLennan, 1985）. The Eu/Eu＊ ratios of the sediments averaging 0.69 indicate that the recycling effect on the Eu anomaly may be minor and the contribution of mafic source rock was unimportant, which can also be depicted in the La-Th-Sc plot（Cullers, 1994） showing a ＂mixed origin＂ close to the felsic end member. The chemistry of the cored sediment can be explained by a mixing model designed by Ho and Chen（1996） with four end members i.e., greywacke, shale, quartzite and limestone, which are widely distributed in the Cenozoic formations of southern Taiwan with greywacke as the dominant contributor followed by shale.
文摘The argument of this study is that social capital is a key factor of health literacy. Data came from an island-wide sample. Position generator was adopted to measure social capital. A regression model is constructed to test the social capital which is known as a robust predictor of health literacy after controlling gender, age, education, income, and health communication ability. The results reveal that female, higher education, and better health communication ability are also correlated with health literacy. Implications for public health are discussed.
文摘<span style="font-family:Verdana;">This study was used</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> to</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> lift nets and trap net fishing at intertidal zone of lagoon and estuarine regions of southern Taiwan. From July 2013 to July 2018, a total 420 specimens of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Pisodonophis</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> were analyzed, the average total body length (TL) and average body weight (W) of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> eels are 68.4 ± 11.9 cm and 140.4 ± 86.1 g (N = 194), respectively. Typically, </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> eels are smaller (TL = 52.8 ± 9.2 cm) and lighter (W = 107.9 ± 73.7 g [N = 119]) than </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> eels. The natural logarithmic linear relationships between the TL and W of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> are respectively expressed as ln(W)</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">b</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 2.4405 ln(TL) <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span> 5.4448 (R</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.796, N = 194) and ln(W)</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">c</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 3.2168 ln(TL) <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span> 8.2027, (</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">R</span></i><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.934, N= 119). </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> typically preys on shrimp, crab, and fish;lab assessment revealed that the frequencies of occurrence of these foods in their guts were 49%, 21%, and 15%, respectively (N = 100). The main catch months of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> were during the rainy season, and that of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">cancrivorus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> were the winter season in Taiwan. The average W values of </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> from Jhuoshuei and Puzih estuaries were 343.2 ± 218.8 g (N = 91) and 140.4 ± 86.1 g (N = 194), respectively. Furthermore, the results of the study revealed that the Puzih estuary is overfished. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">We suggest that fishery management units should develop some protection measures for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems in estuarine regions. For example, </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">the </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">P</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">boro</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> weighing less than 113 g will be released back to the estuary.</span></span>
基金the Joint Earthquake Science Foundation grant number 100070 the NationalNatural Science Foundation of Chinagrant number40272111.
文摘Based on the analysis of newly collected data of plate tectonics, distribution of active faults and crustal deformation, the Taiwan Region is divided into two seismic regions and six seismic belts. Then, correlation fractal dimensions of all the regions and belts are calculated, and the fractal characteristics of hypocenteral distribution can be quantitatively analyzed. Finally, multifractal dimensions D q and f(α) are calculated by using the earthquake catalog of the past 11 years in the Taiwan Region. This study indicates that (1) there exists a favorable corresponding relationship between spatial images of seismic activity described with correlation fractal dimension analysis and tectonic settings; (2) the temporal structure of earthquakes is not single but multifractal fractal, and the pattern of D q variation with time is a good indicator for predicting strong earthquake events.
