bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Finasteride Use and Risk of Male Breast Cancer: A Case–Control Study Using Individual-Level Registry Data from Denmark, Finland, and Sweden
Authors: Kjærulff Thora M. , Ersbøll Annette K. , Green Anders , Emneus Martha , Brasso Klaus , Iversen Peter , Pukkala Eero , Bolin Kristian , Thygesen Lau C. 
Published: March 2019

Abstract

Background:
In case reports, concerns have been raised as to whether finasteride use increases the risk of male breast cancer. Previous epidemiologic evidence on the potential link is conflicting. This study aimed to assess whether an association between finasteride use and male breast cancer exists after accounting for potential confounders.

Methods:
The source population consisted of all men (≥35 years) from Denmark (1995–2014), Finland (1997–2013), and Sweden (2005–2014). Cases with incident male breast cancer were identified in the cancer registries and matched with 50 density-sampled, age, and country-matched male population controls per case. Exposure information on finasteride use was derived from the prescription registries. Potential confounders were identified using the directed acyclic graph methodology and measured by use of information from nation-wide registries.

Results:
The study population comprised 1,005 male breast cancer cases and 43,058 controls. Confounder-adjusted odds of finasteride exposure were not statistically significantly increased [OR, 1.09; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.77–1.54] in breast cancer cases relative to controls. There was no evidence of a dose–response relationship, as the group with greatest exposure to finasteride was associated with lowest OR of male breast cancer [OR, 0.72 (95% CI, 0.40–1.30)]. Sensitivity analyses did not reveal marked changes in results with different exposure definitions or for specific subgroups.

Conclusions:
Results from this study provided no evidence that finasteride use was associated with male breast cancer.

Impact:
This large confounder-adjusted study supports the view that exposure to finasteride is not associated materially with male breast cancer risk.
Acrolein Is Involved in the Synergistic Potential of Cigarette Smoking– and Betel Quid Chewing–Related Human Oral Cancer
Authors: Tsou Han-Hsing , Hu Chih-Hung , Liu Jin-Hui , Liu Chung-Ji , Lee Chien-Hung , Liu Tsung-Yun , Wang Hsiang-Tsui 
Published: March 2019

Abstract

Background:
Cigarette smoking (CS) and betel quid (BQ) chewing are two known risk factors and have synergistic potential for the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in Taiwan. The p53 mutation characteristics in OSCC (G to A or G to T mutations) are similar to that of acrolein-induced DNA damage. Acrolein is a major cigarette-related carcinogen that preferentially causes p53 mutations and inhibits DNA repair function in lung cancer. We hypothesize that acrolein is associated with OSCC carcinogenesis.

Methods:
A total of 97 patients with OSCC and 230 healthy subjects with CS and/or BQ chewing histories were recruited. Slot blot analysis of Acr-dG adducts, an indicator of acrolein-induced DNA damage in buccal DNA, and LC/MS-MS analysis of 3-HPMA levels, urinary Acr metabolites, were performed.

Results:
Our results showed that the level of Acr-dG adducts in buccal cells was 1.4-fold higher in patients with OSCC than in healthy subjects with CS and/or BQ chewing histories (P &lt; 0.001). In addition, in healthy subjects, CS and BQ chewing were associated with significantly higher levels of 3-HPMA, indicating that CS and BQ chewing promotes acrolein absorption. However, 3-HPMA levels in patients with OSCC were significantly lower than those in healthy subjects, indicating impaired acrolein metabolism.

Conclusions:
In this study, we provide a novel mechanism by which increased acrolein uptake and impaired metabolism may contribute to the synergistic potential of CS and BQ-induced OSCC.

Impact:
Elevated acrolein-induced DNA damage (Acr-dG adducts) detected in buccal swabs may serve as an early indicator to identify patients at risk of developing OSCC.
Shift Work Patterns, Chronotype, and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Risk
Authors: Leung Lisa , Grundy Anne , Siemiatycki Jack , Arseneau Jocelyne , Gilbert Lucy , Gotlieb Walter H. , Provencher Diane M. , Aronson Kristan J. , Koushik Anita 
Published: March 2019

Abstract

Background:
Shift work causing circadian disruption is classified as a “probable carcinogen” and may contribute to the pathogenesis of hormone-sensitive cancers. This study investigated shift work exposure in relation to epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) risk.

Methods:
In a population-based case–control study with 496 EOC cases and 906 controls, lifetime occupational histories were collected and used to calculate cumulative years of shift work exposure, average number of night shifts per month, and average number of consecutive night shifts per month. ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations with EOC risk were estimated using logistic regression. Associations were also examined according to chronotype and menopausal status.

Results:
More than half of the cases (53.4%) and controls (51.7%) worked evening and/or night shifts. There was no clear pattern of increasing EOC risk with increasing years of shift work; the adjusted OR of EOC comparing the highest shift work category versus never working shift work was 1.20 (95% CI, 0.89–1.63). This association was more pronounced among those self-identified as having a “morning” chronotype (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.01–2.65). Associations did not greatly differ by menopausal status.

Conclusions:
These results do not strongly demonstrate a relationship between shift work and EOC risk.

Impact:
This study collected detailed shift work information and examined shift work patterns according to shift times and schedules. The findings highlight that chronotype should be considered in studies of shift work as an exposure.
Use of Emergency Medical Services and Timely Treatment Among Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Gu Hong-Qiu , Rao Zhen-Zhen , Yang Xin , Wang Chun-Juan , Zhao Xing-Quan , Wang Yi-Long , Liu Li-Ping , Wang Cai-Yun , Liu Chelsea , Li Hao , Li Zi-Xiao , Xiao Rui-Ping , Wang Yong-Jun ,   on behalf of the Chinese Stroke Center Alliance Investigators
Published: March 2019

Background and Purpose—
Emergency medical services (EMSs) are critical for early treatment of patients with ischemic stroke, yet data on EMS utilization and its association with timely treatment in China are still limited.

Methods—
We examined data from the Chinese Stroke Center Alliance for patients with ischemic stroke from June 2015 to June 2018. Absolute standardized difference was used for covariates’ balance assessments. We used multivariable logistic models with the generalized estimating equations to account for intrahospital clustering in identifying demographic and clinical factors associated with EMS use as well as in evaluating the association of EMS use with timely treatment.

Results—
Of the 560 447 patients with ischemic stroke analyzed, only 69 841 (12.5%) were transported by EMS. Multivariable-adjusted results indicated that those with younger age, lower levels of education, less insurance coverage, lower income, lower stroke severity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and peripheral vascular disease were less likely to use EMS. However, a history of cardiovascular diseases was associated with increased EMS usage. Compared with self-transport, EMS transport was associated with significantly shorter onset-to-door time, door-to-needle time (if prenotification was sent), earlier arrival (adjusted odds ratio [95% CIs] were 2.07 [1.95–2.20] for onset-to-door time ≤2 hours, 2.32 [2.18–2.47] for onset-to-door time ≤3.5 hours), and more rapid treatment (2.96 [2.88–3.05] for IV-tPA [intravenous recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator] in eligible patients, 1.70 [1.62–1.77] for treatment with IV-tPA by 3 hours if onset-to-door time ≤2 hours, and 1.76 [1.70–1.83] for treatment with IV-tPA by 4.5 hours if onset-to-door time ≤3.5 hours).

Conclusions—
Although EMS transportation is associated with substantial reductions in prehospital delay and improved likelihood of early arrival and timely treatment, rate of utilization is currently low among Chinese patients with ischemic stroke. Developing an efficient EMS system and promoting culture-adapted education efforts are necessary for improving EMS activation.
Persistent Spring Shortwave Cloud Radiative Effect and the Associated Circulations over Southeastern China
Authors: Li Jiandong , Wang Wei-Chyung , Mao Jiangyu , Wang Ziqian , Zeng Gang , Chen Guoxing 
Published: March 2019

AbstractClouds strongly modulate regional radiation balance and their evolution is profoundly influenced by circulations. This study uses 2001–16 satellite and reanalysis data together with regional model simulations to investigate the spring shortwave cloud radiative effect (SWCRE) and the associated circulations over southeastern China (SEC). Strong SWCRE, up to −110 W m−2, persists throughout springtime in this region and its spring mean is the largest among the same latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. SWCRE exhibits pronounced subseasonal variation and is closely associated with persistent regional ascending motion and moisture convergence, which favor large amounts of cloud liquid water and resultant strong SWCRE. Around pentad 12 (late February), SWCRE abruptly increases and afterward remains stable between 22° and 32°N. The thermal and dynamic effects of Tibetan Plateau and westerly jet provide appropriate settings for the maintenance of ascending motion, while water vapor, as cloud water supply, stably comes from the southern flank of the Tibetan Plateau and South China Sea. During pentads 25–36 (early May to late June), SWCRE is further enhanced by the increased water vapor transport caused by the march of East Asian monsoon systems, particularly after the onset of the South China Sea monsoon. After pentad 36, these circulations quickly weaken and the SWCRE decreases accordingly. Individual years with spring strong and weak rainfall are chosen to highlight the importance of the strength of the ascending motion. The simulation broadly reproduced the observed results, although biases exist. Finally, the model biases in SWCRE–circulation associations are discussed.
Large-Scale Circulation Anomalies Associated with Extreme Heat in South Korea and Southern–Central Japan
Authors: Xu Ke , Lu Riyu , Kim Baek-Jo , Park Jong-Kil , Mao Jiangyu , Byon Jae-Young , Chen Ruidan , Kim Eun-Byul 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThe large-scale circulation anomalies associated with extreme heat (EH) in South Korea and southern–central Japan are examined using data during the time period 1979–2016. Statistical analysis indicates that EH days in these two regions are concentrated in July and August and tend to occur simultaneously. These EH days are therefore combined to explore the physical mechanisms leading to their occurrence. The composite results indicate that the anomalous atmospheric warming during EH days is dominantly caused by a significant subsidence anomaly, which is associated with a deep anomalous anticyclone over East Asia. Further investigation of the evolution of circulation anomalies suggests that the anomalous anticyclone over East Asia related to EH is primarily initiated by wave trains originating from upstream regions, which propagate eastward along the Asian westerly jet in the upper troposphere. These wave trains can be categorized into two types that are characterized by the precursor anticyclonic and cyclonic anomalies, respectively, over central Asia. The distinction between these two types of wave train can be explained by the wavenumbers of the Rossby waves, which are modulated by both the intensity and the shape of the Asian westerly jet as the background basic flow.
On Internal Waves Propagating across a Geostrophic Front
Authors: Li Qiang , Mao Xianzhong , Huthnance John , Cai Shuqun , Kelly Samuel 
Published: March 2019

AbstractReflection and transmission of normally incident internal waves propagating across a geostrophic front, like the Kuroshio or Gulf Stream, are investigated using a modified linear internal wave equation. A transformation from depth to buoyancy coordinates converts the equation to a canonical partial differential equation, sharing properties with conventional internal wave theory in the absence of a front. The equation type is determined by a parameter Δ, which is a function of horizontal and vertical gradients of buoyancy, the intrinsic frequency of the wave, and the effective inertial frequency, which incorporates the horizontal shear of background geostrophic flow. In the Northern Hemisphere, positive vorticity of the front may produce Δ ≤ 0, that is, a “forbidden zone,” in which wave solutions are not permitted. Thus, Δ = 0 is a virtual boundary that causes wave reflection and refraction, although waves may tunnel through forbidden zones that are weak or narrow. The slope of the surface and bottom boundaries in buoyancy coordinates (or the slope of the virtual boundary if a forbidden zone is present) determine wave reflection and transmission. The reflection coefficient for normally incident internal waves depends on rotation, isopycnal slope, topographic slope, and incident mode number. The scattering rate to high vertical modes allows a bulk estimate of the mixing rate, although the impact of internal wave-driven mixing on the geostrophic front is neglected.
The Great Plains Low-Level Jet during PECAN: Observed and Simulated Characteristics
Authors: Smith Elizabeth N. , Gebauer Joshua G. , Klein Petra M. , Fedorovich Evgeni , Gibbs Jeremy A. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractDuring the 2015 Plains Elevated Convection at Night (PECAN) field campaign, several nocturnal low-level jets (NLLJs) were observed with integrated boundary layer profiling systems at multiple sites. This paper gives an overview of selected PECAN NLLJ cases and presents a comparison of high-resolution observations with numerical simulations using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model. Analyses suggest that simulated NLLJs typically form earlier than the observed NLLJs. They are stronger than the observed counterparts early in the event, but weaker than the observed NLLJs later in the night. However, sudden variations in the boundary layer winds, height of the NLLJ maximum and core region, and potential temperature fields are well captured by the WRF Model. Simulated three-dimensional fields are used for a more focused analysis of PECAN NLLJ cases. While previous studies often related changes in the thermal structure of the nocturnal boundary layer and sudden mixing events to local features, we hypothesize that NLLJ spatial evolution plays an important role in such events. The NLLJ is shown to have heterogeneous depth, wind speed, and wind direction. This study offers detailed documentation of the heterogeneous NLLJ moving down the slope of the Great Plains overnight. As the NLLJ evolves, westerly advection becomes significant. Buoyancy-related mechanisms are proposed to explain NLLJ heterogeneity and down-slope motion. Spatial and temporal heterogeneity of the NLLJ is suggested as a source of the often observed and simulated updrafts during PECAN cases and as a possible mechanism for nocturnal convection initiation. The spatial and temporal characteristics of the NLLJ are interconnected and should not be treated independently.
Service Tyre and Tube Division: Strategic Capabilities for Business Growth
Authors: Chatha Kamran A. 
Published: March 2019

The case describes the growth challenges faced by Service Industries Limited (SIL) in the year 2014. There were a number of strategic growth options available to the firm, some related to product diversification and some related to product extension, and SIL had to devise the best plan in order to tap into these strategic growth options. Since 2011, SIL was continuously on the growth path where its domestic and international sales had increased. This had been made possible through improving virtually every aspect of its value chain as well as activities in the market and product development sides. However, recently, the domestic sector which gave the lion’s share of its sales was undergoing a stagnation, and thus SIL was exploring new avenues of growth in both the domestic and the international markets. These avenues included venturing into tractor tyres and tubes business, auto spare parts business (in which SIL had already embarked) and export business. Each of these growth options had its own peculiarities and implications on various sections of its value chain. This might disturb the very recipe of its internal systems that had given SIL significant growth since 2011 in the first place. Arif Saeed, Managing Director of SIL Tyre and Tube Division had to take steps in a careful and cautious manner in order to further grow.
Multimodal imaging in an idiopathic spontaneously absorbed cataractous lens: A rare case report
Authors: Deshmukh Saurabh , Gupta Krati , Bhattacharjee Harsha 
Published: March 2019

Purpose: To report an unusual and rare case of idiopathic spontaneous absorption of the cataractous lens and its multimodal imaging features. Methods: A 56-year-old female presented with a complaint of diminution of vision in both eyes (OU). Slit lamp examination of the right eye (OD) revealed Morgagnian cataract with a normal anterior segment. Slit lamp examination of the left eye (OS) revealed absorbed cataractous lens with intact lens capsule with clear visual axis. Fundus examination OS was unremarkable. No history of trauma, past ocular surgery or any ocular or systemic disease. Ultrasonography B-scan OU was unremarkable. Her blood examination was normal. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed increased anterior chamber depth OS. It also showed Morgagnian cataractous lens with nucleus in the bag OD and absorbed cataractous lens with thin adhered capsular bag OS. Scheimpflug imaging also showed decreased densitometry OS. She underwent successful phacoemulsification in OD with in-the-bag placement of intraocular lens. For OS with absorbed lens, she underwent phacoemulsification with anterior circular curvilinear capsulorhexis using a capsulotomy forceps. The cortical matter in the bag area was aspirated with implantation of intraocular lens in the ciliary sulcus over the intact capsule rim. Results: The patient underwent phacoemulsification with anterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis with intraocular lens placement in the ciliary sulcus OS. Conclusions: This case is first of its kind in the literature. The role of ultrasound B-scan, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, and Scheimpflug imaging in the preoperative evaluation of capsulolenticular status and subsequent successful management is discussed.
Pharmacological inhibition of Bax-induced cell death: Bax-inhibiting peptides and small compounds inhibiting Bax
Authors: Jensen Kelsey , WuWong David Jasen , Wong Sean , Matsuyama Mieko , Matsuyama Shigemi 
Published: March 2019

Bax is an essential mediator of mitochondria-dependent programed cell death. Bax belongs to the Bcl-2 family of proteins and its activities are regulated through interaction with other member proteins in the Bcl-2 family. To date, several apoptosis-inducing drugs activating Bax have been developed, and some of them are already in the market as therapeutics against cancer. However, at present, there are no clinically effective pharmacological Bax inhibitors protecting essential cells. Previously, we developed Bax-Inhibiting Peptides (BIPs) that belong to the peptide group of Cell-Penetrating Peptides (CPPs). CPPs have the ability to deliver cargo molecules into the cell. In this review, we will describe the mechanism of action of BIPs together with the recent applications of BIPs in disease models in vitro and in vivo. However, BIPs have several limitations in their use to treat human diseases, and other types of Bax inhibitors need to be developed for future therapeutics. Recently, several groups reported the successful development of novel small compounds inhibiting Bax. We will review these Bax inhibitors to discuss current strategies to develop pharmacological Bax inhibitors.Impact statementBax induces mitochondria-dependent programed cell death. While cytotoxic drugs activating Bax have been developed for cancer treatment, clinically effective therapeutics suppressing Bax-induced cell death rescuing essential cells have not been developed. This mini-review will summarize previously reported Bax inhibitors including peptides, small compounds, and antibodies. We will discuss potential applications and the future direction of these Bax inhibitors.
Surgery for scar revision and reduction: from primary closure to flap surgery
Authors: Ogawa Rei 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
Scars are the final result of the four processes that constitute cutaneous wound healing, namely, coagulation, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Permanent scars are produced if the wounds reach the reticular dermis. The nature of these scars depends on the four wound healing processes. If the remodeling process is excessive, collagen degradation exceeds collagen synthesis and atrophic scars are produced. If the inflammation phase is prolonged and/or more potent for some reason, inflammatory/pathological scars such as keloids or hypertrophic scars can arise. If these pathological scars are located on joints or mobile regions, scar contractures can develop. When used with the appropriate timing and when selected on the basis of individual factors, surgical techniques can improve mature scars. This review paper focuses on the surgical techniques that are used to improve mature scars, burn scars, and scar contractures. Those methods include z-plasties, w-plasties, split-thickness skin grafting, full-thickness skin grafting, local flaps (including the square flap method and the propeller flap), and expanded flaps, distant flaps, regional flaps, and free flaps.
Racial disparities in late-stage prostate cancer: A SEER database analysis 2005–2015.
Authors: Lin Jianqing , Rodriguez Stephanie , Zhou Hanbing , Sparks Andrew D , Simmens Samuel J. , Amdur Richard 
Published: March 2019

115 Background: Incidence of metastatic prostate cancer in U.S. males has increased over the past ten years, but it is unknown how this trend varies over time within different racial and ethnic populations. Methods: We identified all men first diagnosed with prostate cancer from 2005-2015 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program of the National Cancer Institute, which monitors 18 population-based cancer registries. Yearly cancer diagnosis frequency from 2005 to 2015 was categorized and analyzed by stage (in situ/localized, regional, and distant), race/ethnicity [White, Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI), Black], and age group (45-54, 55-69, 70-75). Chi-square tests, multivariable logistic regression models were used for data analysis with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: In the 10-year study period, the proportion of regional-stage prostate cancer increased from 14.2% to 16.6% of cases (p < .0001) and distant-stage increased from 3.3% to 5.8% (p < .0001). The odds of being diagnosed with regional-stage prostate cancer in 2013-2015 compared to 2005-2008 were 1.3 times higher for Black men (95% CI: 1.2-1.5), 1.3 times higher for AAPI men (95% CI: 1.1-1.5), and 1.2 times higher for White men (95% CI: 1.2-1.3). The odds of being diagnosed with distant-stage prostate cancer in 2013-2015 compared to 2005-2008 were 1.6 times higher for Black men (95% CI: 1.4-1.9), 1.8 times higher for AAPI men (95% CI: 1.5-2.3), and 2.1 times higher for White men (95% CI: 1.9-2.2). Conclusions: The incidence of late-stage prostate cancer has increased significantly in all US male despite race and ethnicity. However, reginal-stage prostate cancer increased the most over time in AAPI and Black men, while newly-diagnosed distant prostate cancer increased the most over time in White men.