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Shallow bathymetry is important for ocean exploration, and the development of high-precision bathymetry inversion methods, especially for shallow waters with poor quality, is a major research aim. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image data benefit from a wide coverage, high measurement density, rapidity, and low consumption but are limited by low accuracy. Alternatively, multibeam data have low coverage and are difficult to obtain but have a high measurement accuracy. In this paper, taking advantage of the complementary properties, we use SAR image data as the content map and multibeam images as the migrated style map, applying the VGG19 neural network (optimizing the loss function formula) for bathymetric inversion. The model was universal and highly accurate for bathymetric inversion of shallow marine areas, such as turbid water in Taiwan. There was a strong correlation between bathymetric inversion data and measured data (R2 = 0.8822; RMSE = 1.86 m). The relative error was refined by 9.22% over those of previous studies. Values for different bathymetric regions were extremely correlated in the region of 20–40 m. The newly developed approach is highly accurate over 20 m in the open ocean, providing an efficient, precise shallow bathymetry inversion method for complex hydrographic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manila Trench is a critical region for revealing the tectonic evolution and source-to-sink process of the South China Sea, but the sediment provenance in the northern part of the trench remains unclear. In this study, we present a first detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology of sediments in the northern Manila Trench, in the vicinity of Northwestern Luzon Island, to identify the sediment provenance and understand the source-to-sink process in marginal sea The study shows that the sediments yielded multiple zircon age populations at ca. 123, 221, 443, 565, 906, and 1871 Ma. A detailed detrital zircon age study indicates that the sediments were derived mainly from Taiwan Island, China, rather than the nearby Luzon Island In comparison with the modern drainage systems surrounding northeastern South China Sea, this study further confirms that the sediments were primarily originated from the Gaoping River (ca. 45%), with subordinate contributions from the Lanyang River (ca. 24%) and Min River (ca. 19%). The study also elucidates two completely different sedimentary transport modes in the northern Manila Trench. The transportation of sediments from southwestern Taiwan Island is primarily related to the gravity-driven transport through the Gaoping submarine canyon. Furthermore, a quarter of detritus derived from eastern Taiwan Island might have been transported by the deep-water circulation of the Luzon Strait. This study highlights the provenance and transport pathway of sediments in the northern Manila Trench and provides a solution for understanding the source-to-sink process in the marginal sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to examine the combined associations of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and habitual exercise with pneumonia mortality. We included 384,130 persons aged ≥18 years from Taiwan, Republic of China, during 2001–2016. We followed participants until May 31, 2019, to obtain information on vital status. A time-dependent Cox regression model was used for statistical analysis. We found that risks of pneumonia mortality were reduced by 55% (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.45, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.36, 0.55) and 36% (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.80) in participants who engaged in high and moderate levels of exercise, respectively, as compared with inactive persons. By contrast, each 10-μg/m3 increase in chronic PM2.5 exposure was associated with a 30% (HR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.17, 1.45) higher risk of pneumonia mortality. Risk of pneumonia death was 72% lower (HR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.20, 0.41) for persons with a high exercise level and a low PM2.5 level. Lower risk of pneumonia mortality was associated with both higher exercise and lower PM2.5 air pollution levels. For adults exposed to different levels of PM2.5, exercise benefits remained. Our findings suggest that engaging in exercise is a safe and effective strategy for alleviating the burden of pneumonia mortality, even for people who reside in a moderately polluted area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonatum is a traditional and precious Chinese medicine in China, as well as a tradition at medicinal and food homologous material. It has a long history of cultivation and medicinal use. It not only has the effects of boosting qi and nourishing yin, nourishing the spleen and lungs, and tonifying the kidney, but also application value in food, health products, ornamental, cosmetics, etc. There are many varieties of Polygonatum resources all over China, which arc easy to be mixed. There are three species of medicinal Polygonatum recorded in the 2015 edition of Pharmacopeia of the People) Republic of China. In order to Sustainably use and fully develop Polygonatum medicinal resources, we conducted textual research on relevant data and research on the destitution of Polygonatum resources, germplasm metrification, genetic diversity and breeding research, so ad provide a reference for the selection and breeding of polygonatum, artificial cultivation and the development and utilization of potential Polygonatum resources and for the solution of the contradictor between supply and demand in the Polygooatum market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise may exacerbate the adverse health effects of air pollution by increasing the inhalation of air pollutants. We investigated the combined effects of long-term exposure to fine particle matter (PM2.5) and habitual exercise on deaths from natural causes in Taiwan.Methods: We recruited 384 130 adults (aged ≥ 18 yr) with 842 394 medical examination records between 2001 and 2016, and followed all participants until May 31, 2019. We obtained vital data from the National Death Registry of Taiwan. We estimated PM2.5 exposure using a satellite-based spatiotemporal model, and collected information on exercise habits using a standard self-administered questionnaire. We analyzed the data using a Cox regression model with time-dependent covariates.Results: A higher level of habitual exercise was associated with a lower risk of death from natural causes, compared with inactivity (hazard ratio [HR] 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.80-0.88 for the moderate exercise group; HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.62-0.68 for the high exercise groups), whereas a higher PM2.5 exposure was associated with a higher risk of death from natural causes compared with lower exposure (HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.98-1.07, and HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.20, for the moderate and high PM2.5 exposure groups, respectively). Compared with inactive adults with high PM2.5 exposure, adults with high levels of habitual exercise and low PM2.5 exposure had a substantially lower risk of death from natural causes. We found a minor, but statistically significant, interaction effect between exercise and PM2.5 exposure on risk of death (HR 1.03 95% CI 1.01-1.06). Subgroup analyses, stratified by PM2.5 categories, suggested that moderate and high levels of exercise were associated with a lower risk of death in each PM2.5 stratum, compared with inactivity.Interpretation: Increased levels of exercise and reduced PM2.5 exposure are associated with a lower risk of death from natural causes. Habitual exercise can reduce risk regardless of the levels of PM2.5 exposure. Our results suggest that exercise is a safe health improvement strategy, even for people residing in relatively polluted regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Located at the end of the northern Manila Trench, the Hengchun Peninsula is the latest exposed part of Taiwan Island, and preserves a complete sequence of accretionary deep‐sea turbidite sandstones. Combined with extensive field observations, a 'source‐to‐sink' approach was employed to systematically analyze the formation and evolutionary process of the accretionary prism turbidites on the Hengchun Peninsula. Lying at the base of the Hengchun turbidites are abundant mafic normal oceanic crust gravels with a certain degree of roundness. The gravels with U‐Pb ages ranging from 25.4 to 23.6 Ma are underlain by hundreds‐of‐meters thickness of younger deep‐sea sandstone turbidites with interbedded gravels. This indicates that large amounts of terrigenous materials from both the 'Kontum‐Ying‐Qiong' River of Indochina and the Pearl River of South China were transported into the deep‐water areas of the northern South China Sea during the late Miocene and further eastward in the form of turbidity currents. The turbidity flow drastically eroded and snatched mafic materials from the normal South China Sea oceanic crust along the way, and subsequently unloaded large bodies of basic gravel‐bearing sandstones to form turbidites near the northern Manila Trench. With the Philippine Sea Plate drifting clockwise to the northwest, these turbidite successions eventually migrated and, since the Middle Pleistocene, were exposed as an accretionary prism on the Hengchun Peninsula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated the joint associations of habitual physical activity (PA) and long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with the development of hypertension in a longitudinal cohort in Taiwan.Methods: We selected 140 072 adults (≥18 years of age) without hypertension who joined a standard medical screening program with 360 905 medical examinations between 2001 and 2016. PM2.5 exposure was estimated at each participant's address using a satellite data-based spatiotemporal model with 1 km2 resolution. Information on habitual PA and a wide range of covariates was collected using a standard self-administered questionnaire. We used the Cox regression model with time-dependent covariates to examine the joint associations.Results: The mean age of all observations was 41.7 years, and 48.8% were male. The mean value for systolic and diastolic blood pressure was 112.5 and 68.7mm Hg, respectively. Approximately 34.2% of all observations were inactive (0 metabolic equivalence values-hours), 29.8% had moderate-PA (median [interquartile range]; 3.75 [3.38 to 4.38] metabolic equivalence values-hours), and 36.0% had high-PA (15.7 [10.3 to 24.8] metabolic equivalence values-hours). The mean±SD of PM2.5 was 26.1±7.3 μg/m3. The prevalence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and cancer was 2.1%, 2.9%, and 1.5%, respectively. After adjusting for a wide range of covariates (including a mutual adjustment for PA or PM2.5), a higher PA level was associated with a lower risk of hypertension (hazard ratio [HR] for the moderate- and high-PA was 0.93 [95% CI, 0.89-0.97] and 0.92 [95% CI, 0.88-0.96], respectively, as compared with the inactive-PA), whereas a higher level of PM2.5 was associated with a higher risk of hypertension (HR for the moderate- and high-PM2.5 was 1.37 [95% CI, 1.32-1.43] and 1.92 [95% CI, 1.81-2.04], respectively, as compared with the low-PM2.5 group]. No significant interaction was observed between PA and PM2.5 (HR 1.01 [95% CI, 1.00-1.02]).Conclusions: A high-PA and low PM2.5 exposure were associated with a lower risk of hypertension. The negative association between PA and hypertension remained stable in people exposed to various levels of PM2.5, and the positive association between PM2.5 and hypertension was not modified by PA. Our results indicated that PA is a suitable hypertension prevention strategy for people residing in relatively polluted regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical activity (PA) increases a person's inhalation of air pollutants due to greater ventilation, possibly leading to larger adverse health effects. This study aims to investigate the combined effects of long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and habitual PA on lung function in adults.Methods: This was a longitudinal cohort study that included 278,065 Taiwan residents with an age of 20 years old or above who joined a standard medical screening programme between 2001 and 2014. Each participant received at least one medical examination (including spirometric, blood, and urinary tests and a standard self-administered questionnaire survey) during the study period. We estimated the 2-year average PM2.5 concentrations at each participant's address using a new physical model based on observational data. Information on the participants' PA was collected using the standard self-administrated questionnaire. Generalised linear mixed models were used to investigate the combined effects of PM2.5 and PA on pulmonary function. We also performed stratified analyses by different levels of PM2.5 exposure and habitual PA.Results: Each 10 MET-h increase in PA was associated with a higher level of 0.20%, 0.16%, and 0.19% in forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), and maximum mid-expiratory flow (MMEF), respectively, after adjusting for PM2.5 exposure and a wide range of covariates including age, sex education, body mass index, lifestyles, and health conditions. Each 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with a lower FVC, FEV1, and MMEF (2.43%, 2.78% and 3.10%, respectively). Negative interactions were observed, and PM2.5 exposure was associated with a greater reduction in lung function among the participants with higher PA levels.Conclusions: We found significant negative interaction effects between long-term exposure to PM2.5 and habitual PA, suggesting that the increased intake of PM2.5 due to PA may attenuate the benefits of habitual PA on lung function. However, the PA benefits generally remained stable at different stratum of PM2.5 in the stratified analyses, and habitual PA may still be recommended to people residing in relatively polluted regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Disasters may impair people's quality of life (QoL) indirectly through disaster risk perception. We intended to address this point by analyzing the correlation between disaster experience and QoL with a test of the mediating effects of risk perception at the example of earthquake.Methods: We employed the 2013 Taiwan Social Change Survey data as the data source (N = 1481). Unadjusted ordinal logistic regression models examined the correlation of disaster experience with QoL and earthquake risk perception at first. Another set of ordinal regressions were conducted to explore the mediating effect of earthquake risk perception between earthquake experience and QoL.Results: Earthquake experience had negative impact on QoL measured by self-reported happiness, general health status, and life satisfaction. People who had earthquake experience perceived higher earthquake risk compared to those who had never experienced an earthquake. Risk perception measured by perceived likelihood of future earthquake as a mediating factor for the impact of earthquake experience on QoL from the dimensions of both self-reported happiness and life satisfaction was confirmed.Conclusions: Findings are consistent with existing reports about the association between disaster experience and QoL. Research using multi-dimensional measures of disaster risk perception and QoL is needed to inform post-disaster recovery programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Long-term exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution may increase blood pressure and the risk of hypertension. However, epidemiological evidence is scarce and inconsistent. OBJECTIVES: We investigated the associations between long-term exposure to PM with an aerodynamic diameter <2:5 μm (PM2:5), blood pressure, and incident hypertension in a large Taiwanese cohort. METHODS: We studied 361,560 adults ≥18 y old from a large cohort who participated in a standard medical examination program during 2001 to 2014. Among this group, 125,913 nonhypertensive participants were followed up. A satellite-based spatiotemporal model was used to estimate the 2-y average PM2:5 concentrations at each participant's address. Multivariable linear regression was used in the cross-sectional data analysis with the 361,560 participants to investigate the associations between PM2:5 and systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and pulse pressure (PP), and Cox proportional hazard regression was used in the cohort data analysis with the 125,913 participants to investigate the associations between PM2:5 and incident hypertension. RESULTS: Each 10-μg=m³ increment in the 2-y average PM2:5 concentration was associated with increases of 0:45mmHg [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.40, 0.50], 0:07mmHg (95% CI: 0.04, 0.11), and 0:38mmHg (95% CI: 0.33, 0.42) in SBP, DBP, and PP, respectively, after adjusting for a wide range of covariates and possible confounders. Each 10-lg=m³ increment in the 2-y average PM2:5 concentration was associated with an increase of 3% in the risk of developing hypertension [hazard ratio=1:03 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.05)]. Stratified and sensitivity analyses yielded similar results. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term exposure to PM2:5 air pollution is associated with higher blood pressure and an increased risk of hypertension. These findings reinforce the importance of air pollution mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

‘Cross-Straits Relations’ is the title given by the protagonists to the relations that evolved in the past 20 years between Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China. Designed to create confidence-building measures and trust and avoid military confrontation in a frozen, abeyant intractable conflict, these ties have grown enormously in trade volume, investments and people’s exchange. The following article poses the question of whether such relations between two hostile regimes might serve as a model for future conflict management of the hot and active intractable conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, and eventually the Arab countries with which Israel does not yet have peace treaties. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Few studies have examined the effects of multi-pollutant air pollution on renal health, especially in children and adolescents. This study investigated the association between long-term ambient air pollution exposure and renal health in Asian children and adolescents. This study included 10,942 children and adolescents from Taiwan and Hong Kong between 2000 and 2017. PM 2.5 , NO 2 and O 3 concentrations were estimated using satellite-based spatiotemporal regression models. Two-year average concentrations, those of the year of visit and the preceding year, were used. Linear mixed models were used to examine the association between air pollution and yearly changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Cox regression models with time-dependent covariates were used to examine the association between air pollution and the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Median age of the participants was 19 years (range: 2–25). The overall average concentration of PM 2.5 , NO 2 and O 3 was 26.7 μg/m3, 44.1 μg/m3 and 51.1 μg/m3, respectively. The mean yearly change in eGFR was 0.37 μL/min/1.73 m2 and the incidence rate of CKD was 6.8 per 1,000 person-years. In single-pollutant models, each 10 μg/m3 increase in PM 2.5 was associated with a 0.45 μL/min/1.73 m2 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.28–0.63] reduction in the yearly increase in eGFR and 53% [hazard ratio (HR): 1.53 (95%CI: 1.07–2.2)] greater risk of incident CKD. Each 10 μg/m3 increase in NO 2 was associated with a 7% [HR (95%CI): 1.07 (1.00–1.15)] higher risk of incident CKD, while an equivalent increase in O 3 was associated with a 19% [HR (95%CI): 0.81 (0.67–0.98)] lower risk. Long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 and NO 2 was associated with a slower growth of eGFR and a higher risk of incident CKD in children and adolescents. Our findings suggest that air pollution control in early life is imperative to improve lifelong renal health and alleviate the CKD burden. • Novel study that investigated the associations between early-life exposure to air pollution and renal health in children. • Long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 and NO 2 was associated with a slower growth in eGFR and a higher risk of CKD. • Long-term exposure to ozone was associated with a lower risk of CKD. • Linear and monotonic concentration-response curves were found between air pollution and CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitual exercise may amplify the respiratory uptake of air pollutants in the lung, exacerbating the adverse effects of air pollution. However, it is unclear whether this can reduce the health benefits of habitual exercise (referred to as leisure-time exercise). Thus, the combined effects of habitual exercise and chronic exposure to ambient fine particulate matter 2.5 on cardiovascular mortality were examined among adults in Taiwan. A total of 384,128 adults were recruited between 2001 and 2016 and followed up to May 31, 2019. Participants' vital status was obtained by matching their unique identification numbers with records of cardiovascular death in the National Death Registry of Taiwan. A time-varying Cox regression model was used to analyze the data. Analyses were conducted in 2021. Cardiovascular death risks were inversely associated with habitual exercise and positively associated with chronic exposure to particulate matter 2.5. The beneficial effects of habitual exercise on cardiovascular mortality were not modified by chronic exposure to particulate matter 2.5. Inactive participants with high particulate matter 2.5 exposure exhibited a 123% higher risk of cardiovascular death than high-exercise-group participants exposed to low levels of particulate matter 2.5 (95% CI=89, 163). High level of habitual exercise combined with low exposure level of ambient particulate matter 2.5 is associated with the lowest risk of cardiovascular death. A higher level of habitual exercise is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular death at all levels of particulate matter 2.5 exposure studied. The results indicate that habitual exercise is a safe health promotion strategy even for people residing in relatively polluted regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: We investigated scientific publications in laboratory medicine originating from mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan over the past 10years. Methods: The information about articles published in the included journals were determined by computer-searching on PubMed and data were extracted independently and analyzed in relation to the number of articles. Results: From 2000 to 2009 there were 1166 articles published in laboratory medicine journals from the major Chinese regions (mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan). This exceeded Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom and France from 2005 onwards. Also, the number of articles from mainland China exceeded those from Hong Kong and Taiwan from 2004 onwards. The average impact factor (IF) from Hong Kong ranked the first, followed by mainland China, and then Taiwan. Clinica Chimica Acta seems to be the most popular laboratory medicine journal among Chinese authors. Conclusion: Over the past 10years, Chinese authors have been more and more active in the field of laboratory medicine. Mainland China seems to have caught up to Hong Kong and Taiwan regarding publication of papers in this field. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: Health2Sync (H2S) is a digital health technology platform that provides coaching and titration support to patients with diabetes. The Mallya cap converts a conventional insulin pen into a smart connected device that can automatically synchronize dose values and associated timestamps (upon injection) to the H2S platform. This single-arm real-world study evaluated the effectiveness of insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) combined with H2S and Mallya cap (Gla-300 + Cap + App program) on clinical outcomes among users with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Taiwan. Methods: Adults (aged ≥ 20 years) with T2D who were registered H2S users and initiated Mallya cap for a new/existing Gla-300 regimen (identification period May 1, 2021–May 31, 2022) were included in this retrospective cohort study. Follow-up data from H2S were collected for 90 days. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) change (baseline to follow-up) and HbA1c goal attainment were primary outcomes. Hypoglycemia incidence and usage metrics of Mallya cap were secondary outcomes. Results: Of 83 participants, 38.6% were new Gla-300 users. HbA1c was reduced in both new (− 2.4 [2.7] %, − 26.2 [29.5] mmol/mol) and previous Gla-300 users (− 0.5 [1.6] %, − 5.5 [17.5] mmol/mol). Reduction in HbA1c was significant (p < 0.05) in both groups. At follow-up, 43.4% of users had a reduction of > 0.5%. Mean HbA1c reductions increased numerically with higher baseline HbA1c and with longer duration of Mallya cap usage. Conclusions: Use of digital technology within a connected ecosystem such as Gla-300 + Cap + App program could help people with type 2 diabetes to improve their glycemic condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which characterized the glacial remains of some periods on the peak of Snow Mountain in Taiwan. Evidence of glacier existence; Discussion on the glacial development of its high mountains.

Riverine supply of largely terrestrial carbon is important to the carbon cycle chemistry of the oceans. Along a river-ocean continuum, sedimentary organic matter composition and distribution can provide insights to the balance of terrestrial input and in situ production of an estuary. In the Yangtze River estuary (YRE), this balance is especially important to understand as human impacts and climate change continue to modify processes along the continuum. Here we discuss the sources and spatio-temporal distributions of organic matter in the coastal ocean surface sediments and how environmental factors have affected changes there. The isotopic compositions (δ13C and δ15N), total organic carbon (TOC), and total nitrogen (TN) of surface sediments were investigated along with sediment grain size and bottom water temperature, salinity, and total suspended matter. Evidence suggests that fine sedimentary grain size, bottom water temperature, and the circulation dynamics of water masses such as Changjiang Diluted Water (CDW) and Taiwan Warm Current (TWC) were the main factors affecting spatial and temporal distributions, with organic matter concentrations in autumn showing higher than that in spring and nearshore areas higher than offshore. An isotopic-based two end-member mixing model suggests that terrigenous inputs were the main source (about 53%) of organic matter in the YRE, followed by autochthonous marine organic matter, in both seasons. Terrestrial organic matter distribution, controlled by the CDW, decreased seaward from the mouth, as expected, and the proportion of terrestrial organic carbon increased in autumn compared to spring. Intrusions of the TWC water likely contributed to the increase of marine components in a tongue-shaped area during both seasons. • Spatial changes in TOC and TN were significant differences in spring and autumn. • High values of sedimentary organic carbon and nitrogen were observed in autumn. • Terrigenous inputs were the main source of organic matter in the continuum in both seasons. • TOC and TN correlated best with fine sedimentary grain size, and the CDW also explained variations in their distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scale-to-scale kinetic energy (KE) cascade induced by the nonlinear interaction among topography, the Kuroshio, and mesoscale eddies is systematically investigated in the coarse-graining framework based on simulated data from the well-validated Regional Ocean Model System. The KE transfer exhibits inhomogeneous spatial and temporal distributions and varies with length scale. During current–topography interaction, the KE transfers downscale across larger scales and reversely across smaller scales with an inherent separation scale of 150 km northeast of Taiwan, resulting in a significant positive net KE flux for mesoscale motions. The transfer around Suao Ridge is consistently downscaled with significant seasonal variation that is stronger in summer and weaker in winter. South of Suao Ridge, the transfer is one order of magnitude weaker and changes greatly with time. The cyclonic (anticyclonic) eddy weakens (enhances) KE transfer in most study areas. In particular, the cyclonic eddy reverses the transfer direction around Suao Ridge. The anticyclonic eddy triggers a significant bidirectional transfer south of Suao Ridge. Analyses show that the special arc-shaped topographic feature and northwestward Kuroshio intrusion current are responsible for the nature of bidirectional KE transfer northeast of Taiwan. The direction of mean current relative to the topography gradient determines the Rossby number magnitude and the KE transfer direction. The large-scale circulation determines the transfer intensity by changing the horizontal shear and barotropic instabilities. The KE transfer caused by nonlinear dynamics contributes significantly to the total anticyclonic eddy-induced net KE flux changes. In particular, the inverse KE cascade plays a key role in net KE flux changes in mesoscale motions east of Taiwan. Significance Statement: In this work, we clarify the scale-to-scale kinetic energy transfer east of Taiwan. Energy transfer varies in different subareas. It is bidirectional northeast of Taiwan, consistently downscale around Suao Ridge, and weak and variable south of Suao Ridge. These transfer characteristics are closely related to the direction of mean flow relative to the topography gradient. Mesoscale eddies can trigger bidirectional transfer and even reverse the transfer direction. The reverse cascade is as important as the forward cascade for the total mesoscale energy change. This study not only shows an example of KE cascade when strong currents pass through continental slope, sea ridge, and open ocean, but also is of great significance for studying the dynamical and ecological environment variation of marginal sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is a large cohort study consisting of 385,650 adults aged ≥18 years in Taiwan. • PM 2.5 was associated with higher risk of gastrointestinal cancer mortality. • PM 2.5 was associated with higher risk of liver and colorectal cancers mortality. Information on the association between long-term exposure to PM 2.5 and gastrointestinal cancer mortality is scarce. This study investigated the association between long-term exposure to PM 2.5 and deaths from gastrointestinal cancer and its subtypes in adults in Taiwan. A total of 385,650 Taiwanese adults (≥18 years old) jointed a standard medical examination program between 2001 and 2014 and were followed up until 2016. Their vital data were obtained from the National Death Registry maintained by the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Taiwan. We estimated the ambient PM 2.5 concentration at individual's address utilising a satellite-based spatiotemporal model at a resolution of 1 km2. Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to investigate the associations between ambient PM 2.5 and deaths from gastrointestinal, stomach, colorectal and liver cancers. We found that each 10 µg/m3 increase in PM 2.5 was associated with an increased hazard risk (HR) of 1.09 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03–1.16) and 1.13 (95%CI: 1.02–1.24) in deaths from gastrointestinal and liver cancers, respectively. The association between PM 2.5 and death from colorectal cancer was marginally statistically significant [HR: 1.13 (95%CI: 1.00–1.26)]. We did not find significant associations between PM 2.5 and mortality from stomach cancer. Long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 was associated with an increased risk of deaths from gastrointestinal cancers, liver cancer and also potentially colorectal cancer. Air pollution control strategies are necessary to reduce the burden of gastrointestinal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It remains unknown whether reduced air pollution levels can prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this study, we investigated the associations between dynamic changes in long-term exposure to ambient fine particulate matter, defined as particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5), and changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels and incidence of type 2 diabetes. A total of 151,398 adults (ages ≥18 years) were recruited in Taiwan between 2001 and 2014. All participants were followed up for a mean duration of 5.0 years. Change in PM2.5 (ΔPM2.5) was defined as the value at a follow-up visit minus the corresponding value at the immediately preceding visit. The PM2.5 concentration in Taiwan increased during 2002–2004 and began to decrease in 2005. Compared with participants with little or no change in PM2.5 exposure, those with the largest decrease in PM2.5 had a decreased FPG level (β = −0.39, 95% confidence interval: −0.47, −0.32) and lower risk of type 2 diabetes (hazard ratio = 0.86, 95% confidence interval: 0.80, 0.93). The sensitivity analysis and analyses stratified by sex, age, body mass index, smoking, alcohol drinking, and hypertension generally yielded similar results. Improved PM2.5 air quality is associated with a better FPG level and a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A theme emerging from the current literature is that Chinese gay and bisexual men are likely to struggle to accept themselves because of the cultural emphasis on filial piety. However, our understanding of this culturally particular process remains partial because most research has operationalized filial piety as either a component of Chinese values or an aggregate construct itself. To pinpoint this mechanism, this study deconstructed filial piety into pragmatic obligations and compassionate reverence to test a mediation model in which internalized homonegativity served as a mediator between filial piety and depressive symptoms among Taiwanese gay and bisexual men. With the aid of Facebook advertisements, a total of 1,381 respondents (Mean age = 26.56, SD = 6) were recruited to complete a web-based survey comprising the Contemporary Filial Piety Scale, the Chinese Internalized Homophobia Scale, and the Patient Health Quesionanire-9. Structural equation modeling was performed to test the mediation paths. Results showed that pragmatic obligations are directly and negatively associated with depressive symptoms without yielding significant correlation with internalized homonegativity. A full mediation path was found in that compassionate reverence is positively correlated with internalized homonegativity and in turn associated with higher depressive symptoms. Whereas filial piety still assumes salience among Taiwanese gay and bisexual men, this study provides novel evidence for the intricate effect of the value of filial piety on Taiwanese gay and bisexual men's self-acceptance and mental health. The results highlight the importance of a relational and cultural focus to address mental health disparities among sexual minorities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence of the effects of long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) air pollution on the development of dyslipidaemia is limited. This study aimed to investigate the association between long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 and incident dyslipidaemia in a large cohort. We studied 66,702 participants aged ≥18 years belonging to a cohort from a standard medical examination programme conducted in Taiwan between 2001 and 2014. The PM 2.5 concentration at each participant's address was estimated using a satellite-based spatiotemporal model at a high resolution (1 km2). A time-varying Cox regression model was used to examine the association between long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 and the development of dyslipidaemia. Additionally, sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine the stability of these associations. Compared with participants exposed to the 1st tertile of PM 2.5 , participants exposed to the 2nd and 3rd tertiles of PM 2.5 had respective hazard ratios of 1.02 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.98–1.06] and 1.08 (95%CI: 1.04–1.13) for incident dyslipidaemia. Sensitivity analyses generally yielded similar results. Long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 is associated with a higher risk of dyslipidaemia. Global strategies for reducing air pollution are needed to prevent the development of dyslipidaemia. • This is the largest longitudinal cohort study consisting of 66,702 adults. • The mean PM 2.5 was 27.0 μg/m3 and the interquartile range was 9.6 μg/m3 with a range of 5.8–50.3 μg/m3 • Ambient PM 2.5 is associated with a higher risk of dyslipidaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise may increase the inhalation and deposition of air pollutants, which may counteract its beneficial effects. We thus examined the combined effects of chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and habitual exercise on the risk of death from cancer in Taiwan.Patients and Methods: A total of 384 128 adults (≥18 years of age) were recruited for a medical screening programme between 2001 and 2016, yielding 842 384 medical-examination records. All participants were followed up until 31 May 2019. Vital data were obtained from the National Death Registry of Taiwan and the ambient PM2.5 exposure was estimated using a satellite-based spatiotemporal model. Information on habitual exercise was collected using a standard self-administered questionnaire. The time-dependent Cox-regression model was used to evaluate the combined effects.Results: A greater amount of habitual exercise was associated with lower risk of death from cancer, whilst a higher level of PM2.5 exposure was associated with a higher risk of death from cancer. The inverse associations of habitual exercise with death from cancer were not modified by chronic exposure to PM2.5. The participants in the group with a high level of exercise and a low level of PM2.5 exposure exhibited a 35% lower risk of death from cancer than those in the group with a low level of exercise and a high level of PM2.5 exposure (95% confidence interval: 28%, 42%).Conclusions: Increased levels of exercise and reduced exposure levels of PM2.5 are associated with a lower risk of death from cancer. Habitual exercise reduces the risk of death from cancer regardless of the levels of chronic PM2.5 exposure. Our results indicate that habitual exercise is a suitable health-promotion strategy even for people who reside in moderately polluted regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The PM 2.5 levels in Taiwan peaked around 2004 and began to decrease since 2005. • Improvements in ambient PM 2.5 were associated with a better lung function. • Reduced in ambient PM 2.5 were associated with a decreased risk of COPD development. Several studies reported that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) was associated with an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It remains unclear whether reduced PM 2.5 can decrease the risk of COPD development. To investigate the associations of dynamic changes (including deterioration and improvement) in long-term exposure to ambient PM 2.5 with changes in lung function and the incidence of COPD. A total of 133,119 adults (aged 18 years or older) were recruited in Taiwan between 2001 and 2014. All participants underwent at least two standard medical examinations including spirometry test. We estimated PM 2.5 concentrations using a high-resolution (1 km2) satellite-based spatio-temporal model. The change in PM 2.5 (ΔPM 2.5) was defined as the difference in concentration of PM 2.5 between the respective visit and the previous visit. We used a multivariable mixed linear model and time-varying Cox model to investigate the associations of change in PM 2.5 with annual change of lung function and the incidence of COPD, respectively. The PM 2.5 concentration in Taiwan increased during 2002–2004 and began to decrease around 2005. Every 5-µg/m3/year decrease in the annual change of PM 2.5 (i.e., ΔPM 2.5 /year of 5 µg/m3/year) was associated with an average increase of 19.93 mL/year (95 %CI: 17.42,22.43) in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1), 12.76 mL/year (95 %CI: 9.84,15.66) in forced vital capacity (FVC), 70.22 mL/s/year (95 %CI: 64.69,76.16) in midexpiratory flow between 25 and 75% of the forced vital capacity (MEF25-75), 0.27%/year (95 %CI: 0.21%, 0.32%) in FEV 1 /FVC/year. Every 5 µg/m3 decrease in PM 2.5 (i.e., ΔPM 2.5 of 5 µg/m3) was associated with a 12% (95 %CI: 7%, 17%) reduced risk of COPD development. The stratified and sensitivity analyses generally yielded similar results. An improvement in PM 2.5 pollution exposure was associated with an attenuated decline in lung function parameters of FEV 1 , FVC, MEF25-75, and FEV 1 /FVC, and a decreased risk of COPD development. Our findings suggest that strategies aimed at reducing air pollution may effectively combat the risk of COPD development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study conducted to investigate the prevalence of smoking among Korean-Chinese adolescents. It discusses various factors that affect adolescent smoking behavior such as increased alcohol use, poor school performance and lower socioeconomic status. The article discusses the influence of parental and peer smoking on adolescent smoking initiation and the effect of perceived smoking environment on the intention to smoke.

Enterovirus 71 (EV-A71) is one of the most pathogens to hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) as well as neurological complications in young children. Molecular characteristic of EV-A71 is important to prevent the virus outbreak. Here, the complete genomes of EV-A71 from China between 1998 and 2019 were downloaded from GenBank. The phylogenetic trees were developed by MEGA7.0 software, and the complete genetic epidemiological characteristics and amino acid mutations of EV-A71 from China were also analysed. The results showed that major epidemic EV-A71 subtype was C4b before 2004, while it turned to C4a after 2004 in mainland China, and C4 and B5 were major subtypes in Taiwan. VP1, VP4, 2C, 3C, 3D, and complete genome sequence can be used for virus genotyping, and VP1, VP4, and complete genomes have obvious advantages over other segments. There were many significant mutations in the viral complete genome sequence. This study indicated that the major C4 and B5 subtypes will contribute to the development of vaccines and drugs of EV-A71 for prevention and monitoring of EV-A71-associated HFMD in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce the newly developed Formosan Language Archive and show how it has been built up through examples drawn from Rukai, a Formosan language spoken across southern Taiwan and including six main dialects (Mantauran, Maga, Tona, Budai, Labuan, and Tanan) that exhibit great variation. After displaying the layout of the archive, we explain how texts and sound files are recorded and digitalized, how words are tagged, and what the purpose of the search system is. Last, we compare the Formosan language archive to other well-established language archives and show how and why we have adopted a layout that is somewhat different but enables us to capture, through thorough linguistic analysis, the variations displayed in the Rukai dialects (and in Formosan languages in general). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated the combined effects of chronic PM2.5 exposure and habitual exercise on the decline of renal function and the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a large cohort in Taiwan.Methods: The present data analysis included a total of 108,615 participants aged 18 years or above who were recruited between 2001 and 2016. All participants underwent at least two medical examinations. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. The incident of eGFR decline ≥30% was defined as a decline in eGFR of ≥30% during the study period, while the incident CKD was defined as an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or a newly self-reported physician-diagnosed CKD in the subsequent visits. The satellite-based spatiotemporal model was used to estimate PM2.5 exposure at each participant's address. Information on habitual exercise was collected using a standard self-administered questionnaire. The Cox regression model with time-dependent covariates was used for data analyses.Results: Higher habitual exercise was associated with lower risks of renal function decline and CKD development, whereas higher PM2.5 exposure was associated with higher risks of renal function decline and CKD development. We found no significant interaction effect between PM2.5 and habitual exercise, with an HR (95% CI) of 1.02 (0.97, 1.07) for incident eGFR decline ≥30% and 1.00 (0.95, 1.05) for CKD development. Compared to participants with inactive-exercise and high-PM2.5, participants with high-exercise and low-PM2.5 had 74% and 61% lower risks of renal function decline and CKD development, respectively.Conclusion: Increased habitual exercise and reduced PM2.5 exposures are associated with lower risks of renal function decline and CKD development. Habitual exercise reduces risks of renal function decline and CKD development regardless of the levels of chronic PM2.5 exposure. Our study suggests that habitual exercise is a safe approach for kidney health improvement even for people residing in relatively polluted areas and should be promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Xisha Trough situated in the northwestern South China Sea (SCS), plays a pivotal role in transporting sediments from the Red River into the deep-sea basin of the SCS, and thus is a critical place to examine variations in source-to-sink process of the Red River-derived sediments associated with past climate and oceanography changes. In this study, we analyzed clay minerals, grain size composition, and specific XRF core scanning elements of sediment core XT-1, retrieved from the northern slope of the Xisha Trough, to assess changes in sediment provenance and their primary influencing factors in the studied area over the last ∼30 ka. The results show that clay minerals are primarily composed of illite+chrolite with a mean of 89%, followed by kaolinite with a mean of 9%; smectite occurs as a minor component. The mean grain size and XRF core scanning elements exhibit a three-phase change that corresponds well to variations in sediment source since the last glacial period. Over the last 29.8 ka, sea level fluctuations are the primary factor controlling changes in provenances and their contributions in the northern slope of the Xisha Trough. During the last glacial from 29.8 to 20.2 ka with lower sea levels, both the Red River and Taiwan were the primary contributors of fine-grained sediments in the lower continental slope of the Xisha Trough. However, with marine transgressions from the last deglaciation, Taiwan gradually became the dominant source of fine-grained sediments, followed by the Red River. Additionally, during the Last Glacial Maximum and the early to middle Holocene periods, the strengthened deep-water current (DWC) and East Asian summer monsoon, respectively, exerted strong impacts on the contribution of Taiwanese sediments to the Xisha Trough. The changing pattern of primary provenance in the studied core is roughly in line with those observed in the northern SCS, while differing from those in the southern regions of the western Xisha Trough. This discrepancy is likely caused by varying influences of the DWC on these regions. • Taiwan is the primary provenance for the Xisha Trough over the last ∼30 ka, followed by the Red River. • Sea level controls changes in the provenance of fine-grained sediment on the north slope of the Xisha Trough. • The DWC is responsible for consistent clay mineral records in lower slope regions of the Xisha Trough and the northern SCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although plate motion models for the Philippine Sea Plate (PSP) are relatively well established, they remain to be confirmed by reliable geological records. Oblique convergence between Eurasia and the PSP has resulted in the uplift of Taiwan Island along the plate boundary. As the latest exposed portion of Taiwan, the Hengchun Peninsula features well-preserved deep-sea turbidites with rounded mafic conglomerate clasts. We apply an integrated source-to-sink analysis and broad field investigations to generate a reliable kinematic reconstruction linking the Hengchun turbidite outcrops with South China Sea (SCS) borehole sediments. Deposited in the lowermost turbidite layer, the Hengchun rounded gabbro and basalt clasts resemble the SCS oceanic crust based on our U–Pb geochronological (~23.6–25.4 Ma) and elemental geochemical results (normal mid-ocean ridge basalts), along with previous magnetic anomaly constraints. The multimodal U–Pb spectra of the matrix-supported sandstones suggest a mixed provenance including central Vietnam, the Pearl River tributaries and potential intrabasinal uplifts, which have not received prior consideration. During the late Miocene, abundant terrigenous sediments from the eastward-flowing "Kontum-Ying-Qiong River" and Pearl River were transported into the submarine environment. The extensive turbidity currents scoured and eroded the SCS mid-ocean ridges, which feature numerous low-angle detachment faults. These materials of various sources were transported eastwards for thousands of kilometers prior to their incorporation into the accretionary prism adjacent to the Manila Trench. From the late Miocene to Pleistocene, the PSP moved northwestward at estimated velocities of ~61–65 mm/yr, facilitating the final uplift and exposure of the accretionary prism. • Rounded mafic conglomerates within Hengchun turbidites are from South China Sea mid-ocean ridges (~23.6–25.4 Ma). • Terrigenous sediments together with eroded South China Sea oceanic crust were transported to the Manila Trench. • During the late Miocene-Pleistocene the Philippine Sea Plate migrated at estimated velocities of ~61–65 mm/yr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is the most commonly implicated causative agent of severe outbreaks of paediatric hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD).VP1 protein, a capsid protein of EV71, is responsible for the genotype of the virus and is essential for vaccine development and effectiveness. However, the genotypes of EV71 isolates in China are still not completely clear. Methods: The VP1 gene sequences of 3712 EV71 virus strains from China, excluding repetitive sequences and 30 known EV71 genotypes as reference strains, between 1986 and 2019 were obtained from GenBank. Phylogenetic tree, amino acid homology, genetic variation and genotype analyses of the EV71VP1 protein were performed with MEGA 6.0 software. Results: The amino acid identity was found to be 88.33%–100% among the 3712 EV71 strains, 93.47%–100% compared with vaccine strain H07, and 93.04%–100% compared with vaccine strains FY7VP5 or FY-23 K-B. Since 2000, the prevalent strains of EV71 were mainly of the C4 genotype. Among these, the C4a subgenotype was predominant, followed by the C4b subgenotype; other subgenotypes appeared sporadically between 2005 and 2018 in mainland China. The B4 genotype was the main genotype in Taiwan, and the epidemic strains were constantly changing. Some amino acid variations in VP1 of EV71 occurred with high frequencies, including A289T (20.99%), H22Q (16.49%), A293S (15.95%), S283T (15.11%), V249I (7.76%), N31D (7.25%), and E98K (6.65%). Conclusion: The C4 genotype of EV71 in China matches the vaccine and should effectively control EV71. However, the efficacy of the vaccine is partially affected by the continuous change in epidemic strains in Taiwan. These results suggest that the genetic characteristics of the EV71-VP1 region should be continuously monitored, which is critical for epidemic control and vaccine design to prevent EV71 infection in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Holocene sedimentary evolution in the northern South China Sea has significant implications for sedimentary records resulting from combinations of climate change, sea level rise, and changes in surface circulation. U-Pb geochronology and Lu-Hf isotopes of detrital zircons from the Holocene sediments at the head of the Shenhu submarine canyons, integrated with onshore geochronological data reveal variations in provenance related to these factors. The detrital zircons exhibit a wide range of U-Pb ages from 3829.7 to 41.5 Ma characterized by peak ages centered on 140–154 Ma, 240–258 Ma, 425–452 Ma and 738–991 Ma. Zircon Hf isotopic compositions show a broad range of 176Hf/177Hf ratios from 0.2800714 to 0.282924, with ε Hf (t) values ranging from −27.8 to +14.3. Our results suggest that the Holocene sediments were primarily derived from the Pearl River system and the drainage systems in Taiwan, and the sources in Hainan and Luzon are not represented in these sediments. A rapid shift from Pearl River-dominated to Taiwan-dominated provenance occurred between 4.91 and 4.45 ka BP, which is interpreted to be caused by sea level rise and variations in the surface circulation in the northern South China Sea during the Holocene. Our study also reveals that the reworking of ancient continental crust dominated the evolution of the South China Craton, including tectonic-magmatic events at ca. 2491 Ma, 1843 Ma, 968 Ma, 810 Ma, 440 Ma, 251 Ma and 147 Ma. In contrast, Neoproterozoic accretion of the Cathaysia and Yangtze blocks was accompanied by juvenile additions to crustal growth. • Detrital zircon revealed a variable provenance in the Shenhu submarine canyons • Quantitative analysis indicated Pearl River and Taiwan were the major sources • Shift in provenance was related to the sea level rise and surface circulation • Reworking of ancient crust dominated the South China Craton since Archean [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early Cenozoic rift basins developed commonly on the Mesozoic basement along the SE Asia Continent. However, Eocene–Oligocene sequences were only exposed widely onshore Taiwan. We study benthic foraminifera and determine U–Pb geochronology of detrital zircon grains in the Early Cenozoic sequence onshore Taiwan for understanding if there was any significant change in faunal content and sediment provenance between the Eocene syn-rift sequences and the overlying Oligocene post-rift strata across the breakup unconformity. The Eocene syn-rift sequences are mostly of thick, cross-bedded sandstones of fluvial-deltaic depositions without marine fauna. Intensive study on the Eocene stratigraphy in more than ten sections all over the Taiwan mountain belt in the last three decades, shallow marine benthic foraminifera of Gaudryina hayasakai-Hanzawaia asterizana-Planularia okinoshimaensis-Heterolepa praecinta assemblage were found only in very limited exposures in the Western Foothills, central Taiwan. This study shows that the Eocene benthic foraminiferal assemblage is similar to the Shihtsaoan fauna in the overlying Oligocene post-rift marine strata. This indicates no significant faunal break across the breakup unconformity. As a consequence, Gaudryina hayasakai Zone of the Shihtsaoan age can extend downward to the Eocene and the Shihtsaoan Stage would be equivalent to the Hsuehshanian Stage established previously from northern Taiwan. The Taiwan Eocene marine sequences could be deposited in a normal-fault bounded narrow seaway or gulf connecting southeastward to the open Huatung Basin. U–Pb geochronology of detrital zircons in the Taiwan Eocene syn-rift sandstones shows a prominent age peak centered in Yenshanian (100–155 Ma) similar to the Paleocene–Oligocene fluvial-deltaic deposits in the East China Sea and is also comparable to the U–Pb zircon age spectrum of modern river sands of the Fujian Province, SE China. Petrographic study also suggests a prevailing sediment provenance of the Cathaysia granites and volcanics. These Cathaysia detritals were transported to the Taiwan Eocene grabens through some SE-flowing rivers. Structural reconstructions in previous study indicated that the mountain belt with the Eocene sequences in NE Taiwan had been shortened by imbricated thrusting westward for 160–200 km wide during the arc-continent collision in the last 6.5 Ma. Integrating paleontology and sedimentology evidence reveal that the Eocene coast was located along the modern shelf break of the East China Sea ~ 350–400 km east off the modern Chinese coast line. This implies that in the Eocene time (~ 40 Ma) there was no wide Asian epi-continental marginal seas off Chinese coast until the onset sedimentation of the Oligocene post-rift strata during opening of the South China Sea in the Early Oligocene time (~ 33 Ma). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the effects of four factors on perceptions of fairness in access to outpatient services: proportions of walk-in versus scheduled registration, consultation queues, regulations for late patients and particular categories of patients getting better access. Methods: A total of 124 young adults were asked to consider nine different scenarios and report their views of the fairness of each one. Results: As regards the balance of types of patients, 60% walk-in registration was seen as fair to both walk-in and scheduled patients. The fairness to both types of patients was higher in the queue with a 1:1 ratio of walk-in to scheduled patients. The policy that a late patient should wait for three on-time patients to be seen was considered to be fair to both on-time and late patients. Immediate consultation for some particular categories of patient (e.g. the elderly) was fair, but for other categories was unfair (e.g. paying an addition amount). Conclusions: Fairness in outpatient care is based on equality and need principles. Shorter waiting time does not mean patients view the system as fairer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The northern shelf of South China Sea is an important passageway for the transportation of sediments from the terrigenous source to the oceanic sink, but the provenance and dispersal patterns of sediments remain largely unclear. Here we report the results of zircon grain-size analysis and U-Pb geochronology to investigate the sediment provenance and illustrate the transport and dispersal patterns of sediments on the continental shelf of the northern South China Sea. The results show that detrital zircon U-Pb ages within sediments are characterized by a major peak at ca. 150 Ma, as well as three minor age populations at ca. 240 Ma, 400–500 Ma, and 900–1000 Ma. A detailed provenance study suggests that these sediments were primarily derived from both the Pearl River catchment and the drainage systems in Taiwan Island. Our study confirms that the transportation and dispersion of sediments were largely controlled by both topography and hydrodynamics of sea. The sediments in the inner continental shelf were transported from the Pearl River drainage system and subject to the Guangdong Coastal Current, whereas the sediments in the middle and outer continental shelf were markedly influenced by the South China Sea warm current. This study elucidates the transport and dispersal patterns of detrital sediments in the marginal sea by comprehensive analyses of detrital zircon grains. • Zircon grain-size and U-Pb dating were utilized to decipher the provenance and dispersal patterns. • The sediments were primarily derived from the sources of Pearl River and Taiwan Island. • Redistribution of sediments was influenced by the shelf current as the rising of sea level. • Different mineral grain sizes settling differentially can affect sediment provenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During November 2012-July 2013, a marked increase of adenovirus type 7 (Ad7) infections associated with severe disease was documented among pediatric patients in Singapore. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close genetic links with severe Ad7 outbreaks in China, Taiwan, and other parts of Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to explore variations in how contemporary couples from five different Asian regions negotiate disagreements. Video recordings of 50 couples (10 each from Japan, Korea, Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong) discussing unresolved disagreements provided raw data for quantitative and qualitative analyses. First, teams of coders from each region used a common protocol to make quantitative ratings of content themes and interaction patterns for couples from their own region. An interregional panel of investigators then performed in-depth qualitative reviews for half of these cases, noting cultural differences not only in observed patterns of couple behavior but also in their own perceptions of these patterns. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed clear regional differences on dimensions such as overt negativity, demand-withdraw interaction, and collaboration. The qualitative results also provided a richer, more nuanced view of other (e.g., gender-linked) conflict management patterns that the quantitative analyses did not capture. Inconsistencies between qualitative and quantitative data and between the qualitative observations of investigators from different regions were most pronounced for couples from Korea and Japan, whose conflict styles were subtler and less direct than those of couples from the other regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we cross-examine anomalies before four major earthquakes, Sumatra (Indonesia) 2004.12.26 M9.3; Pingtung (Taiwan) 2006.12.26 M7.0×2; Chuetsu Oki (Japan) 2007.7.16 M6.8; and Wenchuan (China) 2008.5.12 M8.0. Measurements of the crustal stress, infrasonic wave, and budgerigar jumping rate recorded at Institute of Earthquake Prediction are used to monitor in the lithosphere and atmosphere, while the total electron content over the four epicenters are employed to detect anomalies in the ionosphere. These cross-examinations allow us to have better understanding on the leading time of the four observed anomalies, the earthquake preparation process, and the lithosphere–atmosphere–ionosphere coupling before the earthquakes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, analysis of mineralogy and geochemistry of fifteen surface sediment samples from four hydrothermal fields in the middle and southern Okinawa Trough is presented. Sediment samples can be divided into two types: (1) Metalliferous group (MS group) containing large amounts of sulfides and sulfate are enriched in Pb, Zn, Cu, Fe, Au, Ag, Ba, As, Hg, Se, Sb, Mo, slightly enriched in U, V, and have rare earth elements (REE) patterns similar to those of hydrothermal vent fluids and sulfides, indicating formation by a complex combination of wasting and erosion primary massive sulfide deposits and plume fallout of sulfides and sulfate. The occurrence of sphalerite with high contents of Fe and of co-existing pyrrhotite as major Fe-sulfide indicate that these minerals are formed at high temperature with low-sulfur fugacity in the Clam and Jade hydrothermal sites. The enrichment of Pb, Zn, Cu, Au, Ag, Ba, As, Hg, Se, Sb, and Mo is related to the presence of galena, sphalerite, Cu-sulfides, stibnite, and realgar in the sediments. (2) Non-metalliferous group (non-MS group) containing small amounts of pyrite are slightly enriched in Pb, Zn, Cu, Au, Ag, As, Hg, Se, Sb, and Mo relative to the East China Sea (ECS) continental shelf sediments, with REE exhibiting a "shale-like flat" patterns and close to Taiwan sediments in a REE discrimination plot, indicating formation by a large amount of terrigenous materials originated from Taiwan Island and a small amount of particles of sulfides in the hydrothermal nonbuoyant plume. The slight enrichment of Pb, Zn, Cu, Au, Ag, As, Hg, Se, Sb, and Mo maybe caused by co-precipitation with the fine-grained sulfides settling from the nonbuoyant plume. The positive relationships between the HREE fractionation index (Gd/Yb) N, heavy mineral proportion, and δEu suggest that (Gd/Yb) N can be used as a sensitive indicator for reflecting the effect of hydrothermal activity on the sediments. • Hydrothermal surface sediments from the middle and southern Okinawa Trough were researched. • Metalliferous sediments were mainly formed by wasting and erosion of primary massive sulfide deposits. • Non-metalliferous sediments were mainly formed by terrigenous materials with a small amount of fine-grained sulfides from plume. • The presence of sulfides and sulfate cause the enrichment of Pb, Zn, Cu, Au, Ag, Ba, As, Hg, Se, Sb, and Mo. • (Gd/Yb) N can be used to reflect the effect of hydrothermal activity on the sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]