bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Blood pressure and risk of cancer: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chan Io Ieong , Kwok Man Ki , Schooling C. Mary 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
Previous large observational cohort studies showed higher blood pressure (BP) positively associated with cancer. We used Mendelian randomization (MR) to obtain less confounded estimates of BP on total and site-specific cancers.

Methods
We applied replicated genetic instruments for systolic and diastolic BP to summary genetic associations with total cancer (37387 cases, 367856 non-cases) from the UK Biobank, and 17 site-specific cancers (663–17881 cases) from a meta-analysis of the UK Biobank and the Kaiser Permanente Genetic Epidemiology Research on Adult Health and Aging. We used inverse-variance weighting with multiplicative random effects as the main analysis, and sensitivity analyses including the weighted median, MR-Egger and multivariable MR adjusted for body mass index and for smoking. For validation, we included breast (Breast Cancer Association Consortium: 133384 cases, 113789 non-cases), prostate (Prostate Cancer Association Group to Investigate Cancer Associated Alterations in the Genome Consortium: 79194 cases, 61112 non-cases) and lung (International Lung and Cancer Consortium: 10246 cases, 38295 non-cases) cancer from large consortia. We used asthma as a negative control outcome.

Results
Systolic and diastolic BP were unrelated to total cancer (OR 0.98 per standard deviation higher [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89, 1.07] and OR 1.00 [95% CI 0.92, 1.08]) and to site-specific cancers after accounting for multiple testing, with consistent findings from consortia. BP was nominally associated with melanoma and possibly kidney cancer, and as expected, not associated with asthma. Sensitivity analyses using other MR methods gave similar results.

Conclusions
In contrast to previous observational evidence, BP does not appear to be a risk factor for cancer, although an effect on melanoma and kidney cancer cannot be excluded. Other targets for cancer prevention might be more relevant.
Incidental neuroendocrine tumor of a complete subserosal appendix: an unusual presentation of a rare anatomical variation. A case report and review of literature
Authors: Cañizares Quisiguiña Stalin Isaías , Guamán Maldonado Lucía Vanessa , Hidalgo Jaramillo Iván Marcelo , Borja Herrera Tatiana Paola , Carrión Guzmán Cecilia de los Ángeles 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
Appendix’ anatomical variations are a rare occurrence which can mislead diagnosis and delay appropriate treatment.

Case presentation
We present a 9-year-old female patient that came with a clinical picture compatible with acute appendicitis. However, a cecal mass was identified instead of an inflamed appendix during surgery. Therapeutic decisions were extremely challenging due to clinical deterioration and an uncertain etiology. Only the histopathology report revealed the presence of a complete subserosal appendix which was responsible for the entire symptomatology. Here, we review all case reports regarding intramural, intracecal or subserosal appendixes. A discussion of the general approach to this specific case and the importance of consensual diagnostic criteria for these specimens are also presented. At last, an incidental finding is exposed and final treatment options are discussed given the overall presentation.

Conclusions
Considering these variants would guide physicians towards a more accurate approach to similar clinical pictures and hence an improved long-term prognosis.
Comparison of stresses in monoblock tilted implants and conventional angled multiunit abutment-implant connection systems in the all-on-four procedure
Authors: Zincir Özge Özdal , Parlar Ateş 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe All-on-four dental implant method is an implantology method designed to provide a comfortable prosthetic treatment option by avoiding advanced surgical procedures. This research aims to compare and evaluate the stress and tension values in conventional angled multiunit abutment-implant connection systems and monoblock dental implants used in the all-on-four procedure with finite element analysis.MethodsTwo master models were created by placing four implants connected to multiunit abutments (group A) in the interforaminal region of a completely edentulous mandible and four monoblock implants (group B) in the same region of another completely edentulous mandible. Group A implants were classified according to their diameter as follows: 3.5 mm (M1A), 4.0 mm (M2A), and 4.5 mm (M3A). Similarly, group B implants were classified as M1B, M2B, and M3B. In the six models rehabilitated with acrylic fixed prostheses, a 100 N force was applied to the anterior implant region, and a 250 N force was applied to the posterior cantilever in both axial and 30° oblique directions. Von Mises stresses were analyzed in the bone and implant regions of all models.ResultsM1A and M1B, M2A and M2B, and M3A and M3B were compared with each other under axial and oblique forces. The maximum Von Mises stresses in the bone around implants and the prosthesis screws, and the maximum and minimum principal stresses in the cortical and trabecular bone in group A models were significantly higher than those in group B models.ConclusionsIn monoblock implant systems under axial and oblique forces, higher stress is accumulated in the bone, prosthesis screw and implant compared to multiunit abutment-implant connection systems.
Feasibility of promoting physical activity using mHEALTH technology in rural women: the step-2-it study
Authors: Khare Manorama M. , Zimmermann Kristine , Lyons Rebecca , Locklin Cara , Gerber Ben S. 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
Rural women are more likely to be obese and have a higher risk for chronic disease than their non-rural counterparts. Inadequate physical activity (PA) at least in part contributes to this increased risk. Rural women face personal, social and environmental barriers to PA engagement. Interventions promoting walking among rural women have demonstrated success; however, few of these studies use text messaging to promote PA.

Methods
Step-2-It was a pilot study to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of text-messaging combined with a pedometer to promote PA, specifically walking among English-speaking women, aged 40 and older, living in a rural, northwest Illinois county. Enrolled participants completed baseline assessments, received pedometers and two types of automated text messages: motivational messages to encourage walking, and accountability messages to report pedometer steps. Participants engaged in 3, 6, 9, and 12-week follow-ups to download pedometer data, and completed post-intervention assessments at 12 weeks.

Results
Of the 44 enrolled participants, 35 participants (79.5%) completed the intervention. Among completers, the proportion meeting PA guidelines increased from 31.4% (11/35) at baseline to 48.6% (17/35) at post-intervention, those with no PA decreased from 20% (7/35) to 17.1% (6/35). During weeks 1-12, when participants received motivational text messages, average participant daily step count was 5926 ± 3590, and remained stable during the intervention. Pedometer readings were highly correlated with self-reported steps (r = 0.9703; p < 0.001).

Conclusion
Step-2-It was a feasible and acceptable walking intervention for older rural women. Technology, including text messaging, should be investigated further as an enhancement to interventions for rural women.
Trial Registration on Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04812756, registered on March 22, 2021
JNK signaling provides a novel therapeutic target for Rett syndrome
Authors: Musi Clara Alice , Castaldo Anna Maria , Valsecchi Anna Elisa , Cimini Sara , Morello Noemi , Pizzo Riccardo , Renieri Alessandra , Meloni Ilaria , Bonati Maurizio , Giustetto Maurizio , Borsello Tiziana 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a monogenic X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by loss-of-function mutations in the MECP2 gene, which lead to structural and functional changes in synapse communication, and impairments of neural activity at the basis of cognitive deficits that progress from an early age. While the restoration of MECP2 in animal models has been shown to rescue some RTT symptoms, gene therapy intervention presents potential side effects, and with gene- and RNA-editing approaches still far from clinical application, strategies focusing on signaling pathways downstream of MeCP2 may provide alternatives for the development of more effective therapies in vivo. Here, we investigate the role of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) stress pathway in the pathogenesis of RTT using different animal and cell models and evaluate JNK inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach.

Results
We discovered that the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) stress pathway is activated in Mecp2-knockout, Mecp2-heterozygous mice, and in human MECP2-mutated iPSC neurons. The specific JNK inhibitor, D-JNKI1, promotes recovery of body weight and locomotor impairments in two mouse models of RTT and rescues their dendritic spine alterations. Mecp2-knockout presents intermittent crises of apnea/hypopnea, one of the most invalidating RTT pathological symptoms, and D-JNKI1 powerfully reduces this breathing dysfunction. Importantly, we discovered that also neurons derived from hiPSC-MECP2 mut show JNK activation, high-phosphorylated c-Jun levels, and cell death, which is not observed in the isogenic control wt allele hiPSCs. Treatment with D-JNKI1 inhibits neuronal death induced by MECP2 mutation in hiPSCs mut neurons.

Conclusions
As a summary, we found altered JNK signaling in models of RTT and suggest that D-JNKI1 treatment prevents clinical symptoms, with coherent results at the cellular, molecular, and functional levels. This is the first proof of concept that JNK plays a key role in RTT and its specific inhibition offers a new and potential therapeutic tool to tackle RTT.
Influence of contextual factors on physical demands and technical-tactical actions regarding playing position in professional soccer players
Authors: Díez Adrián , Lozano Demetrio , Arjol-Serrano Jose Luis , Mainer-Pardos Elena , Castillo Daniel , Torrontegui-Duarte Marcelino , Nobari Hadi , Jaén-Carrillo Diego , Lampre Miguel 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
The aim of this study was to analyse the physical demands and technical-tactical actions for each playing position according to game location and final outcome in professional soccer players.

Methods
A convenience sample was obtained from twenty-one professional male soccer players, belonged to same soccer team of the Spanish Second Division. Players’ physical demands were monitored during each match using a portable 18 Hz GPS unit and 600 Hz triaxial accelerometer. These analysed demands were total distance, moderate speed running distance (>14.4 km·h-1), high-speed running distance (>19.8. km·h-1), sprint distance (>25.0 km·h-1), number of accelerations between 2 and 4 m·s-2 and above 4 m·s-2, and number of decelerations between 2 and 4 m·s-2 and above 4 m·s-2. The data related to technical-tactical actions were obtained from WyScout®, a computerized multiple-camera tracking system based on the OPTA® track analysis tool. The obtained indicators were general, defensive and offensive.

Results
For all players, higher total distance (p = 0.045; effect size [ES] = 0.24, small effect) was covered and greater deceleration 2-4 m·ss-2 (p = 0.001; ES = 0.68, medium effect) was performed when the team plays at home and lose and for all players, playing at home and winning demanded higher defensive volume (p =0.014; ES = − 1.49, large effect) and nº interceptions (p =0.031; ES = − 1.40, large effect) in comparison to playing at home and losing.

Conclusions
The physical demands and technical-tactical actions vary when contextual game factors (i.e., match location and final outcome) are considered. We can confirm that, although the training of physical demands does not influence the final result of the match, the training of technical tactical actions could help to achieve an optimal performance of the team to win matches.
Climate change and agriculture management: Western Balkan region analysis
Authors: Županić Franc Željko , Radić Danka , Podbregar Iztok 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
This paper aims to analyze the possibilities of the agricultural sector of the Western Balkan to assess compliance with the European Green Deal, which provides for the implementation of activities, which should enable the transition to sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation. This paper is among the first to present the causality of agriculture and climate change (status, mitigation, and perspectives) in general and in light of the European Green Deal for the Western Balkan territory.

Main text
Agricultural production is a leading industry in the Western Balkan. Climate change and predictions that temperatures will increase by 4 °C in the coming decades pose a risk not only to agricultural production but also to the safety of the population, because agriculture is the main source of income for a significant part of it. Uncontrolled floods and droughts caused by climate change are a particular danger for agriculture and human existence. This paper demonstrates that agriculture in the WB can be considered critically affected by climate change.

Conclusions
Unless appropriate measures are taken and risk management for water resources and agriculture is improved, there will be a further decrease in precipitation and an increase in dry days by 20%. Such a scenario endangers not only the already vulnerable climate sustainability and biodiversity of the region but also the existence of a population employed in agriculture and the contribution of the agricultural sector to the gross domestic product. However, future planning based on the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) and European Green Deal, the adoption of a related regulatory framework, the establishment and regular monitoring of supporting financing mechanisms, regional cooperation, and improving risk management (with emphasis on the local level) can mitigate the present impact and decrease the expected negative impact of climate change on agriculture and biodiversity in the WB region.
Pharmaceutical policies and regulations of oral antiviral drugs for treatment of hepatitis C in Egypt—case study
Authors: Teaima Mahmoud H. , Al-Nuseirat Adi , Abouhussein Dalia , Badary Osama A. , El-Nabarawi Mohamed A. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere are limited studies on the role of efficient regulatory mechanisms in facilitating greater access to Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. Evidence to support the importance of effective pharmaceutical policies and regulations in improving access to oral viral drugs towards the elimination of HCV is needed. This study aims to explore the adequacy of the implemented pharmaceutical policies and regulations in Egypt and their role to improve the availability and affordability of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to achieve universal access to the treatment of HCV.MethodsThe study adopts a qualitative methodology using desk review of regulatory and legislative information, literature review, and semi-structured interviews with key experts from the concerned governmental regulatory agencies, pharmaceutical industries, academic organizations, professional associations, civil society organizations, and clinicians who are working in researching treatments for hepatitis C.FindingsThe common DAAs available in the market are Daclatasvir, Sofosbuvir, and Sofosbuvir-based direct-acting antiviral combinations. Fast-track medicines registration pathway for marketing authorization of DAAs is used to reduce market access time frames. The pricing policies are supplemented using price negotiation to set up affordable prices that led to a reasonable price for DAAs. Using Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPs) flexibility and local production of quality generics DAAs at lower prices. In addition, political will and collaboration between the government, civil society, and pharmaceutical companies improved patients' access to affordable DAAs and succeeding hepatitis C treatment in Egypt.ConclusionsThe study findings indicated that the implemented pharmaceutical policies and regulations have an immense role in enhancing access to medicines towards the elimination of hepatitis C in Egypt.
Do our children learn enough in Sky Class? A case study: online learning in Chinese primary schools in the COVID era March to May 2020
Authors: Zhao Lina , Thomas Peter , Zhang Lingling 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAll human being’s ways of living, working and studying were significantly impacted by the Covid-19 in 2020. In China, the Ministry of Education reacted fast in ensuring that primary school students could learn online at home by promoting the Sky Class program from February 2020. Educators, parents, and students all faced the challenges of adapting to new online teaching and learning environments. In this small-scale case study, Sky Class’s content and the participants’ experiences, will be presented. Four primary school teachers and five primary school students and their parents participated in three-rounds of interviews sharing their perspectives and experiences of online learning. The study showed that the students gained more parental support and that they benefited from using multimedia functions, like replay, in their Sky Classes. However, the majority of participants reported that the students learnt less. By mapping the learning activities and themes from Sky Class against Cope and Kalantzis’ e-learning ecologies, our study found that only ubiquitous learning and multimodal meaning were achieved. We suggest the reason may be that high cognitive learning was not achieved due to less teachers’ supervision, lack of interaction, delayed feedback, shorter learning times and communication. In conclusion, innovative pedagogies, which can foster different types of learning from the e-learning ecologies may overcome the negative aspects reported about Sky Class. Further research is required for implementing online technology as a catalyst for educational change.
Recovery patterns in patients undergoing revision surgery of the primary knee prosthesis
Authors: Liu W. Y. , van der Steen M. C. , van Wensen R. J. A. , van Kempen R. W. T. M. 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Despite good survival rates of revised knee prostheses, little is known about recovery trajectories within the first 12 months after surgery. This retrospective observational study explored recovery trajectories in terms of pain, function and quality of life in patients after revision knee arthroplasty over 12 months.

Methods
Eighty-eight revision knee arthroplasty patients rated changes in daily physical functioning using the anchor question (0: very much worsened; 7: very much improved). Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) of pain (range 0–10), function (Oxford Knee Score) and quality of life (EQ-5D-3L) were assessed preoperatively, at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Four recovery trajectories were identified using the anchor question at 3 and 12 months postoperatively: no improvement, late improvement, early improvement, and prolonged improvement. Repeated measures ANOVA was conducted with recovery trajectories as dependent variable and PROM assessments as independent variables.

Results
Sixty percent reported improvement in daily physical functioning at 12 months postoperatively. Age and reason for revision differed between groups. Pain, function and EQ-5D-3L differed between groups over time. Late and prolonged improvement groups improved on all PROMs at 12 months. The early improvement group did not report improvement in daily physical functioning at 12 months, while improvements in function and pain during activity were observed.

Conclusions
Different recovery trajectories seem to exist and mostly match PROMs scores over time. Not all patients may experience beneficial outcome of revision knee arthroplasty. These findings are of importance to provide appropriate information on possible recovery trajectories after revision knee arthroplasty to patients.

Level of evidence
III
Seasonal and regional differences in migration patterns and conservation status of Swan Geese (Anser cygnoides) in the East Asian Flyway
Authors: Damba Iderbat , Zhang Junjian , Yi Kunpeng , Dou Huashan , Batbayar Nyambayar , Natsagdorj Tseveenmyadag , Davaasuren Batmunkh , Cao Lei , Fox Anthony David 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
The Swan Goose (Anser cygnoides) breeds across Mongolia and adjacent China and Russia and winters exclusively in China. It is globally threatened, showing long-term major range contractions and declining abundance, linked to habitat loss and degradation. We remain ignorant about the biogeographical subpopulation structure of the species and potential differences in their migration timing, stopovers and schedules, information that could be vital to effective conservation of different elements of the species population, which we address here with results from a telemetry study.

Methods
In 2017–2018, we attached GPS/GSM telemetry devices to 238 Swan Geese on moulting sites in three discrete parts of their summering area (Dauria International Protected Area, Central Mongolia and Western Mongolia), generating 104 complete spring and autumn migration episodes to compare migration speed and nature between birds of different summer provenances.

Results
Birds from all three breeding areas used almost completely separate migration routes to winter sympatrically in the Yangtze River floodplain. Although many features of the spring and autumn migrations of the three groups were similar, despite the significantly longer migration routes taken by Western Mongolian tagged birds, birds from Dauria Region arrived significantly later in winter due to prolonged staging in coastal areas and took longer to reach their breeding areas in spring. Among birds of all breeding provenances, spring migration was approximately twice as fast as autumn migration. Areas used by staging Swan Geese (mainly wetlands) in autumn and spring almost never fell within national level protected areas, suggesting major site safeguard is necessary to protect these critical areas.

Conclusions
This study showed the discreteness of migration routes taken by birds of different summer provenances and differences in their migratory patterns, highlighting key staging areas (Yalu River Estuary in China/North Korea for Dauria Region breeding birds, Daihai Lake for Central Mongolian and Ordos Basin for Western Mongolian birds). Based on this new knowledge of the biogeographical subpopulation structure of the Swan Goose, we need to combine data on subpopulation size, their distribution throughout the annual life cycle and conservation status, to develop more effective conservation strategies and measures to reverse population decline throughout the range.