Casual associations between blood metabolites and colon cancer

BACKGROUND Limited knowledge exists regarding the casual associations linking blood metabolites and the risk of developing colorectal cancer.AIM To investigate causal associations between blood metabolites and colon cancer.METHODS The study utilized a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis to investigate the causal impact of 486 blood metabolites on colorectal cancer.The primary method of analysis used was the inverse variance weighted model.To further validate the results several sensitivity analyses were performed,including Cochran's Q test,MR-Egger intercept test,and MR robust adjusted profile score.These additional analyses were conducted to ensure the reliability and robustness of the findings.RESULTS After rigorous selection for genetic variation,486 blood metabolites were included in the MR analysis.We found Mannose[odds ratio(OR)=2.09(1.10-3.97),P=0.024],N-acetylglycine[OR=3.14(1.78-5.53),P=7.54×10^(-8)],X-11593-O-methylascorbate[OR=1.68(1.04-2.72),P=0.034],1-arachidonoylglycerophosphocholine[OR=4.23(2.51-7.12),P=6.35×10^(-8)]and 1-arachidonoylglycerophosphoethanolamine 4[OR=3.99(1.17-13.54),P=0.027]were positively causally associated with colorectal cancer,and we also found a negative causal relationship between Tyrosine[OR=0.08(0.01-0.63),P=0.014],Urate[OR=0.25(0.10-0.62),P=0.003],N-acetylglycine[0.73(0.54-0.98),P=0.033],X-12092[OR=0.89(0.81-0.99),P=0.028],Succinylcarnitine[OR=0.48(0.27-0.84),P=0.09]with colorectal cancer.A series of sensitivity analyses were performed to confirm the rigidity of the results.CONCLUSION This study showed a causal relationship between 10 blood metabolites and colorectal cancer,of which 5 blood metabolites were found to be causal for the development of colorectal cancer and were confirmed as risk factors.The other five blood metabolites are protective factors.

Causal associations between intermediate very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-to-total lipids ratio and peptic ulcer:A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND Previous epidemiologic investigations have consistently demonstrated a strong association between the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in medium very-lowdensity lipoprotein(VLDL)and the occurrence of peptic ulcers(PU).However,the precise causal relationship between these factors remains ambiguous.Consequently,this study aims to elucidate the potential correlation between the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in medium VLDL and the incidence of peptic ulcer.AIM To investigate the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in medium very-low-density lipoprotein(VLDL)association with PU via genetic methods,guiding future clinical research.METHODS Genome-wide association study(GWAS)datasets for the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in intermediate VLDL and peptic ulcer were retrieved from the IEU OpenGWAS project(https://gwas.mrcieu.ac.uk).For the forward Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis,72 single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)were identified as instrumental variables.These SNPs were selected based on their association with the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in intermediate VLDL,with peptic ulcer as the outcome variable.Conversely,for the inverse MR analysis,no SNPs were identified with peptic ulcer as the exposure variable and the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in intermediate VLDL as the outcome.All MR analyses utilized inverse variance weighted(IVW)as the primary analytical method.Additionally,weighted median and MR-Egger methods were employed as supplementary analytical approaches to assess causal effects.Egger regression was used as a supplementary method to evaluate potential directional pleiotropy.Heterogeneity and multiplicity tests were conducted using the leave-one-out method to evaluate result stability and mitigate biases associated with multiple testing.RESULTS The genetically predicted ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in medium VLDL was significantly associated with an elevated risk of peptic ulcer(IVW:OR=2.557,95%CI=1.274-5.132,P=0.008).However,no causal association of peptic ulcer with the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in medium VLDL was observed in the inverse Mendelian randomization analysis.CONCLUSION In conclusion,our study reveals a significant association between the ratio of cholesterol to total lipids in medium VLDL and an elevated risk of peptic ulcers.However,further validation through laboratory investigations and larger-scale studies is warranted to strengthen the evidence and confirm the causal relationship between these factors.

复杂系统建模的ε机理论方法及应用研究

提出一种ε机理论发现复杂系统中隐含模式的新思路。该方法能在对系统内部结构无法知晓的情况下,不需要假设而根据系统自身的特性建模。先对时间序列进行符号化处理,生成符号序列。再采取因果态分割重构法重构ε机,重构后能够显示出原始序列中的隐含信息。通过对工程中配电网系统故障选线的多组实验证明,4个评判指标:熵率、统计复杂度、状态数和相对熵率能够一致地显示出各条线路的隐含信息,在几个关键影响因素改变的情况下均能有效地区分故障线路和非故障线路。从而验证了ε机理论在复杂系统建模中的优越性,为复杂系统建模提供了一种有效途径,也为配电网故障选线提供了一种新的方法。

A Comparative Analysis of Casual Conversation and Institutional Talk

This article reflects on the process of transcribing spoken interaction and makes a comparative analysis of two different varieties of spoken interaction(casual conver- sation and institutional talk). By doing so, it reveals how the different purposes of speech result in their distinctive characteristics, and shows how language is struc- tured to construct ideational meanings(Field) and interpersonal meanings(Tenor) that define each context.

Statistical Analysis and Evaluation of Macroeconomic Policies: A Selective Review

In this paper,we highlight some recent developments of a new route to evaluate macroeconomic policy effects,which are investigated under the framework with potential outcomes.First,this paper begins with a brief introduction of the basic model setup in modern econometric analysis of program evaluation.Secondly,primary attention goes to the focus on causal effect estimation of macroeconomic policy with single time series data together with some extensions to multiple time series data.Furthermore,we examine the connection of this new approach to traditional macroeconomic models for policy analysis and evaluation.Finally,we conclude by addressing some possible future research directions in statistics and econometrics.

Study on fault locating technology for satellite power system

It is currently prevalent to locate faults for a satellite power system based on an expert system, not utilizing all the available information provided by tests. The casual network model for a satellite power system is presented. Considerations for failure probability of each component of the power system, the cost of applying each test, the influence of a precedent test result on the next test selection, and an optimal sequential testing algorithm for fault location is presented. This program is applied to locate the failure component of the power system of a satellite. The results show this program is very effective and it is very fast to generate an optimal diagnosis tree.

Identifying Vibration Source and Propaganda Path by Using Casuality Analysis

The unit impulse response function of two-sided time domain for noncasual 1 DOF linear system is derived, and the FFT program is used in simulation of multi-DOF systems. The method of identifying vibration source and propaganda path by using causuality analysis of transmissbility is proposed.

Store Environment:Its Importance and Consumers'Expectations on Casual-wear Chain Stores in Honk Kong

This study attempted to examine the importance of storeenvironment in affecting consumers’store choice deci-sion;the relative importance among the three environ-mental factors;and consumers’expectations on store en-vironment for the casual-wear chain stores in HongKong.Julie Baker’s Three-category framework onstore environments namely ambient,design and socialfactors was adopted for investigation.The results indi-cated that the store environment was important in affect-ing consumers’selection of store for shopping.It alsorevealed that social factor was perceived relatively im-portant than ambient and design factors.Nine store ex-pectation dimensions were categorised and the resultdemonstrated that most respondents were concerned onthe social aspect in their expectation of having a satisfy-ing store environment.

Unprotected Sex with Casual Partners: A Neglected Source of HIV Transmission among Members of the Yi Minority in Southwestern China

The Yi are the largest and most disadvantaged ethnic minority population in southwestern China. This region contains over eight million Yi, with approximately 2.4 million living in the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture （Liangshan） in Sichuan Province. Liangshan is located along one of the main drug trafficking routes from the ＇Golden Triangle＇ to northwest and central China, making it one of the largest illicit drug production and distribution centers in China.

休闲风格

所谓的休闲，就是将彻底的放松进行到底．只要心情好，随意即可。休闲风格可以是奢华的代表．也可以只做简单的点缀．没有固定的模式。所以．不用刻意装饰．觉得舒服就好。许多鞋类品牌近几年都在往Casual之余又Fashion的路线上走，女鞋如此，男鞋更是有突出表现。

Effect of vitamin supplementation on polycystic ovary syndrome and key pathways implicated in its development:A Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND Many epidemiologic investigations have explored the relationship between viatmins and polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS).However,the effectiveness of vitamin,vitamin-like nutrient,or mineral supplementation in reducing the risk of PCOS remains a subject of debate.AIM To investigate the impact of plasma levels of vitamins A,B12,D,E,and K on PCOS and key pathways implicated in its development,namely,insulin resistance,hyperlipidemia,and obesity,through Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.METHODS Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with vitamin levels were selected from genome-wide association studies.The primary analysis was performed using the random-effects inverse-variance-weighted approach.Complementary analyses were conducted using the weighted median,MR-Egger,MR-robust adjusted profile score,and MR-PRESSO approaches.RESULTS The results provided suggestive evidence of a decreased risk of PCOS with genetically predicted higher levels of vitamin E(odds ratio[OR]=0.118;95%confidence interval[CI]:0.071–0.226;P<0.001)and vitamin B12(OR=0.753,95%CI:0.568–0.998,P=0.048).An association was observed between vitamin E levels and insulin resistance(OR=0.977,95%CI:0.976–0.978,P<0.001).Additionally,genetically predicted higher concentrations of vitamins E,D,and A were suggested to be associated with a decreased risk of hyperlipidemia.Increased vitamins K and B12 levels were linked to a lower obesity risk(OR=0.917,95%CI:0.848–0.992,P=0.031).CONCLUSION The findings of this MR study suggest a causal relationship between increased vitamins A,D,E,K,and B12 levels and a reduced risk of PCOS or primary pathways implicated in its development.

Casual Sex, Sex Work and Unprotected Sex among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Clinical Trial —North-West Region of Tshwane, South Africa

Background: The gap in the understanding of the context of the sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and risky behaviours among men who have sex with men (MSM) could lead to the development and implementation of inappropriate interventions, which could exacerbate the rapid spread of STIs, especially HIV, among MSM. The aim of the study was to qualitatively assess the understanding of the STIs and the risky sexual behaviours of men who have sex with men in the North-West region of Tshwane. Methods: An exploratory qualitative design was employed to assess the STIs and the risky sexual behaviour of the MSM population. The study participants were enrolled in an HPV clinical trial at MECRU, which is a clinical research unit at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University. Data collection occurred from September 2016 to May 2017. A convenience sampling method was used and n = 30 participants were selected. Face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted on MSM 18 years and older, using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic content analysis was used for data analysis, using NVivo version 10 software. Results: The mean age of the sample was 26 years, and the age range was 18 to 44 years. All were unmarried, and all of them came from townships, rural villages and informal settlements in the vicinity of the clinical research unit. The high-risk behaviours noted among the majority of the MSM in this study were having multiple sexual partners and exchanging partners, alcohol abuse, inconsistent condom-use, having unprotected anal sex, and having transactional sex. There was a high level of knowledge of STIs in the heterosexual population with poor understanding of STIs affecting MSM through anal sex. Most of the MSM played a female or bottom role, which made them vulnerable because they could not successfully negotiate condom use, and they reported that they sometimes accepted gifts or money in exchange for anal sex. Conclusion: The study concludes that the MSM in this study had casual sex, and are involved in sex work without practising safe sex. There is a need for health promotion on STIs and risky behaviours among MSM in communities as well as in health facilities for MSM in the North-West region of Tshwane.

＂Marikana Has Come to the Farms!!!＂： An Analysis of the Socio-Economic Impact of the November 2012-January 2013 Farm Workers＇ Strike in the Western Cape

In August 2012 a bloody strike broke out at the Marikana platinum mine, close to Rustenburg in the Northwest Province. The strike, involving 3,000 African miners, became violent and police opened fire and killed 34 people. The issue of minimum wages and union recognition, inter alia, were underlying causes of this strike. The much televised Marikana strike had a knock-on effect and a few months later a widespread strike broke out among workers in the agricultural sector of the Western Cape. Large-scale destruction of property and crop damage took place on farms reaching levels of militancy never previously encountered in this sector. As in the case of the Marikana strike the root causes of the strike action in the Western Cape seemed to be the question of minimum wages, and, to a lesser extent, union recognition and other social issues involving political undertones. This article explores the socio-economic causes of the strike and its ramifications for labour and agriculture in the province.

Analysis and Causal Formulation Proof of an Optimal Iterative Learning Algorithm

Iterative learning control (ILC) is used to control systems that operate in a repetitive mode, improving track-ing accuracy of the control by transferring data from one repetition of a task, to the next. In this paper an op-timal iterative learning algorithm for discrete linear systems is analyzed and a solution for its attainment is proposed. Finally the mathematical proof of the algorithm’s causal formulation is also provided in its com-plete form, since its implementation requires its causal formulation.

国际休闲家具协会

美国：一个在世界范围推广休闲家具的新协会International Casual Furnishings Assn（ICFA）宣布，协会已启动了联合全行业，以应对未来的挑战的计划，新协会的使命是转播高质量的休闲家具的概念和为之创造需求，所有从事休闲家具牛产的都可成为协会的成员。协会将提供开放论坛，使业内认识趋于一致，

“国粹网游戏平台”开发纪实

本文按照开发的流程，将一款休闲网游平台从无到有的设计历程叙述出来，按项目制作阶段分为“立项篇”、“设计篇”、“研发篇”三部分，如此可比较清晰地看出每一个阶段会涉及到的环节。同时将各个阶段当时的思想及遇到的问题悉数献上，希望读者无论是从事Casual Game的制作，还是MMQG的建立，都能有所借鉴，限于篇幅，“测试篇”和“运营篇”部分就不在此列出了，今后有机会再撰文探讨。

暇步士品牌60周年庆成都完美落幕

近日全球休闲舒适缔造品牌商暇步士,在有着“休闲之都”美誉的成都举办品牌创立60周年庆典。暇步士品牌1958年创立于美国,是全球唯一提出“We Invented Casual““!休闲由我创“的全新休闲理念的品牌,为当时的消费者希望享受更多的休闲时光带来全新的3C理念,品牌以可爱的巴吉度猎犬为LOGO,表达了品牌注重忠诚与陪伴、注重家庭与爱的另一面。

Adidas Originals秋冬捎来复古正点流行风

将运动品牌引入流行领域是Adidas Originals的最大特色。今年秋冬推出的Clean Casual纯色休闲系列，维持一贯的品牌基调．结合Black ＆ White纯色调，多彩的学院时尚．军绿色系与徽饰的Army军装风格，使消费者不必大动脑筋就可以出色地展现年轻自信的青春风貌。而Sleek系列除保有经典元素外．

ECCO高尔夫发布限量版弗雷德·卡波斯“1992签名款”纪念高尔夫球鞋

ECCO 全球领先的北欧丹麦鞋履品牌ECCO正式宣布，其备受赞誉的ECCO Casual Hybrid休闲混合系列高尔夫球鞋将推出弗雷德·卡波斯（Fred Couples）签名款，并在4月初，通过指定零售商在全球进行发售。

达芙妮联手高圆圆推女鞋品牌ONDUL圆漾

8月18日，由高圆圆和达芙妮品牌联手推出的都市女鞋品牌0NDUL圆漾在上海开设了品牌首家线下直营店，店铺位于上海新天地时尚购物中心。该品牌分为DRESS时尚派对系列、OL大方职业系列以及CASUAL潮流中性系列，满足都市女性在不同场台的需求。而作为创始人，品牌每一双鞋子的设计都由高圆圆亲自把关。