bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Green Synthesize of Zinc Oxide Catalyst Using Pomegranate Peels Extract for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye
Authors: Alwash Atheel 
Published: September 2020

In this study, the zinc oxide NPs have been synthesized from the fresh pomegranate peels extract using the precipitation method. The ZnO nanoparticles were produced from the reaction of fresh peels extract with zinc acetate salt which was used as zinc source in the presence of 2 M NaOH. The green synthesized nanoparticles were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Atomic force microscopy (AFM). The XRD patterns confirm the formation of hexagonal wurtzite phase structure for ZnO synthesized using pomegranate peels extract with average crystalline size of 28 nm. FTIR spectra identify the presence of many active functional groups for the pomegranate extract which is ideal to bind with zinc acetate to produce the ZnO nanoparticles during the preparation method. The reflection spectra of green synthesis ZnO with pomegranate extract observed a blue shift towards lower wavelength with (8 nm) difference compared to ZnO without the addition of any extract. The provenance of such blue shift towards shorter wave length was due to the quantum size effect. The Atomic force microscopic (AFM) result shows average roughness value for ZnO nanoparticles of 6.26 nm. The decolorization efficiency of the methylene blue dye was investigated using the ZnO nanoparticles under sun light irradiation and it was compared with the bare ZnO synthesized without the addition of extract. The catalytic activity was about 88% after 60 min of sunlight irradiation for both prepared catalyst however, the decolorization efficiency of ZnO with the addition of extract was higher at the first 16 min compared to bare ZnO.
Improving the Durability of Streak and Thermal Insulation of Petroleum Pipes by Using Polymeric Based Paint System
Authors: Darwish Salih Younis , Majid Zuhair Naji , Dahham Ashwaq tariq 
Published: September 2020

This research deals with increasing the hardening and insulating the petroleum pipes against the conditions and erosion of different environments. So, basic material of epoxy has been mixed with Ceramic Nano Zirconia reinforcement material 35 nm with the percentages (0,1,2,3,4,5) %, whereas the paint basis of broken petroleum pipes was used to paint on it, then it was cut into dimensions (2 cm. × 2 cm.) and 0.3cm high. After the paint and percentages are completed, the samples were immersed into the paint. Then, the micro-hardness was checked according to Vickers method and thermal inspection of paint, which contained (Thermal conduction, thermal flux and Thermal diffusivity), the density of the painted samples was calculated,. The results of the research indicate that the concentration (5%ZrO2) gives the best results that the hardness of this concentration reached to (92 Hv). By contrast, the thermal conduction was continued at a insulation limit (2.4 W/m.K). The thermal diffusivity was (1.16 mm2/sec.), the thermal flux reached to (70.4 w.s 1/2/m2.K) and the density at the same percentage was (4.87 g/m3). This means that there is a linear proportionality and development with increasing in the percentage of Nano Zirconia additive to epoxy.
Trends in the incidence of diabetes mellitus: results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 and implications for diabetes mellitus prevention
Authors: Liu Jinli , Ren Zhen-Hu , Qiang Hua , Wu Jine , Shen Mingwang , Zhang Lei , Lyu Jun 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Backgroud: Diabetes mellitus is a common chronic disease and a severe public health issue. The incidence trends for type 1 diabetes (TIDM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) have rarely been studied on a global scale. We aimed to determine the temporal and geographical trends of diabetes globally.Methods: Data on diabetes mellitus, including incidence, prevalence from 1990 to 2017 were obtained from the 2017 Global Burden of Disease study. We calculated the estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) in age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of diabetes mellitus according to sex, region, and disease type.Results: The worldwide incident cases of diabetes mellitus has increased by 102.9% from 11,303,084 cases in 1990 to 22,935,630 cases in 2017 worldwide, while the ASIR increased from 233.58/100,000 persons (95% UI, 218.95–249.37) to 284.56/100,000 persons (95% UI, 262.17–309.71) in this period [EAPC=0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.79–0.96]. The global ASIRs of T1DM and T2DM both demonstrated significant increase during 1990-2017, with EAPCs of 0.34 (95% CI:0.30–0.39) and 0.89 (95% CI:0.80–0.97), respectively. The ASIR trends also varied considerably by regions and countries. The increase in ASIR was greatest in high sociodemographic index regions (EAPC=1.05, 95% CI:0.92–1.17) and lowest in low-SDI regions (EAPC=0.79, 95% CI:0.71–0.88).Conclusions: Both the number of incident cases and ASIR of diabetes mellitus increased significantly during 1990-2017 worldwide, but the temporal trends varied markedly across regions and countries.
The role of tobacco and alcohol use in the interaction of social determinants of non-communicable diseases in Nepal: a systems perspective
Authors: Sharma Sudesh Raj , Matheson Anna , Lambrick Danielle , Faulkner James , Lounsbury David W , Vaidya Abhinav , Page Rachel 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Tobacco and alcohol use are major behavioural risks in developing countries like Nepal, which are contributing to a rapid increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This causal relationship is further complicated by the multi-level social determinants such as socio-political context, socio-economic factors and health systems. The systems approach has potential to facilitate understanding of such complex causal mechanisms. The objective of this paper is to describe the role of tobacco and alcohol use in the interaction of social determinants of NCDs in Nepal.

Method: The study adopted a qualitative study design guided by the Systemic Intervention methodology. The study involved key informant interviews (n=63) and focus group discussions (n=12) at different levels (national, district and/or community) and was informed by the adapted Social Determinants of Health Framework . The data analysis involved case study-based thematic analysis using framework approach and development of causal loop diagrams. The study also involved three sense-making sessions with key stakeholders.

Results: Three key themes and causal loop diagrams emerged from the data analysis. Widespread availability of tobacco and alcohol products contributed to the use and addiction of tobacco and alcohol. Low focus on primary prevention by health systems and political influence of tobacco and alcohol industries were the major contributors to the problem. Gender and socio-economic status of families/communities were identified as key social determinants of tobacco and alcohol use.

Conclusion: Tobacco and alcohol use facilitated interaction of the social determinants of NCDs in the context of Nepal. Socio-economic status of families was both driver and outcome of tobacco and alcohol use. Health system actions to prevent NCDs were delayed mainly due to lack of system insights and commercial influence. A multi-sectoral response led by the health system is urgently needed.
Sagittal alignment changes and postoperative complications following surgery for adult spinal deformity in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a multi-institutional retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kawabata Atsuyuki , Yoshii Toshitaka , Sakai Kenichiro , Hirai Takashi , Yuasa Masato , Inose Hiroyuki , Matsukura Yu , Morishita Shingo , Tomori Masaki , Torigoe Ichiro , Kusano Kazuo , Otani Kazuyuki , Arai Yoshiyasu , Shindo Shigeo , Okawa Atsushi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been reported to increase the risk of postoperative complications in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD). However, those studies are limited, and few have made direct comparisons with patients who do not have PD.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study. We retrospectively reviewed all surgically treated ASD patients with at least a 2-year follow-up. Among them, 27 had PD (PD(+) group). Clinical data were collected on early and late postoperative complications as well as any revision surgery. Radiographic parameters were evaluated before and immediately after surgery and at final follow-up, including sagittal vertical axis (SVA), thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, sacral slope, and pelvic tilt. We compared the surgical outcomes and radiographic parameters of PD patients with those of non-PD patients.
Results: For early complications, the PD(+) group demonstrated a higher rate of delirium than the PD(−) group. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism rates tended to be higher in the PD(+) group. With regard to late complications, the rate of pseudarthrosis was significantly higher in the PD(+) group. Rates of rod failure and revision surgery due to mechanical complications also tended to be higher, but not significantly, in the PD(+) group ( p = 0.17, p = 0.13, respectively). SVA at final follow-up and loss of correction in SVA were significantly higher in the PD(+) group.
Conclusion: Extra attention should be paid to perioperative complications, especially delirium and thrombosis, in PD patients undergoing surgery for ASD. Furthermore, loss of correction and rate of pseudarthrosis were greater in these patients.
Developing and implementing guidelines on culturally adapting the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination Version III (ACE-III): A qualitative illustration
Authors: Waheed Waquas , Mirza Nadine , Waheed Muhammed Wali , Malik Abid , Panagioti Maria 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Cognitive tests currently used in healthcare and research settings do not account for bias in performance that arises due to cultural context. At present there are no universally accepted steps or minimum criteria for culturally adapting cognitive tests. We propose a methodology for developing specific guidelines to culturally adapt a specific cognitive test and used this to develop guidelines for the ACE-III. We then demonstrated their implementation by using them to produce an ACE-III Urdu for a British South Asian population. Methods: This was a several stage qualitative study. We combined information from our systematic review on the translation and cultural adaptation of the ACE-III with feedback from previous ACE-III adaptors. This identified steps for cultural adaptation. We formatted these into question-by-question guidelines. These guidelines, along with feedback from focus groups with potential users were used to develop ACE-III Urdu questions. Clinical experts reviewed these questions to finalise an ACE-III Urdu. Results: Our systematic review found 32 adaptations and we received feedback from seven adaptors to develop the guidelines. With these guidelines and two focus groups with 12 participants a sample ACE-III Urdu was developed. A consensus meeting of two psychiatrists with a South Asian background and familiarity with cognitive tests and cultural adaptation finalised the ACE-III Urdu. Conclusions: We developed a set of guidelines for culturally adapting the ACE-III that can be used by future adaptors for their own language or cultural context. We demonstrated how guidelines on cultural adaptation can be developed for any cognitive test and how they can be used to adapt it.
Tickborne disease awareness and protective practices among U.S. Forest Service employees from the Upper Midwest, USA
Authors: Schotthoefer Anna , Stinebaugh Kathryn , Martin Michael , Munoz-Zanzi Claudia 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: People with occupations that require them to spend time working outdoors in suitable tick habitats are predicted to be at an increased risk for tick-borne diseases (TBDs). However, few studies have assessed the risks of outdoor employees in the United States.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey to collect data on exposure to ticks and TBD infections among U.S. Forest Service employees in a high TBD incidence region of northern Wisconsin, and to examine employee knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) regarding TBDs to help guide future education and prevention programs. Chi-square contingency tables, calculations of odds ratios, and logistic regression models were used to identify associations among self-reported employee factors, the proportion of correctly answered knowledge questions, their ranked concern for TBDs, practicing preventive behaviors, and willingness to pay for protective measures. Results: Ninety-five employees completed the survey. Nearly all respondents (97%) reported recent tick exposure, with 27% reporting encountering 10 or more ticks per week during peak tick season. Employee knowledge of TBD was high (median score: 80% correct). Fifty-nine percent of respondents had high concern for TBDs, and there was high adherence to conducting body checks for ticks (83% reported always doing them), but only moderate use of tick repellents (24% reported always and 60% reported occasionally using). High concern for TBD (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 6.32 [95% confidence intervals: 1.97 – 20.28]), a history of TBD diagnosis (aOR = 5.88 [1.41-24.55]), and older age (≥ 46 years) (aOR = 3.29 [1.00 – 10.84]) were positively associated with high practice adherence. Respondents suggested they would be willing to pay for personal protective methods and get a hypothetical vaccine for Lyme disease, but not community-wide efforts to control ticks. Conclusions: Our study provides evidence that U.S. Forest Service employees in Wisconsin represent a high risk group for TBD, and despite relatively high TBD knowledge and engagement in tick protection activities, efforts are needed to reduce their risks for tick bites. More generally, our findings suggest that studies to better understand the factors related to the adoption and effectiveness of public health interventions are needed.
The relationship between a microfinance-based healthcare delivery platform, health insurance coverage, health screenings, and disease management in rural Western Kenya
Authors: Rosenberg Molly , Amisi James Akiruga , Szkwarko Daria , Tran Dan N. , Genberg Becky , Luetke Maya , Kianersi Sina , Namae Jane , Laktabai Jeremiah , Pastakia Sonak 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Structural barriers often prevent rural Kenyans from receiving healthcare and diagnostic testing. The Bridging Income Generation through grouP Integrated Care (BIGPIC) Family intervention facilitates microfinance groups, provides health screenings and treatment, and delivers education about health insurance coverage to address some of these barriers. This study evaluated the association between participation in BIGPIC microfinance groups and health screening/disease management outcomes.

Methods: From November 2018 to March 2019, we interviewed a sample of 300 members of two rural communities in Western Kenya, 100 of whom were BIGPIC microfinance members. We queried participants about their experiences with health screening and disease management for HIV, diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, and cervical cancer. We used log-binomial regression models to estimate the association between microfinance membership and each health outcome, adjusting for key covariates.

Results: Microfinance members were more likely to be screened for most of the health conditions we queried, including those provided by BIGPIC [e.g. diabetes: aPR (95% CI): 3.46 (2.60, 4.60)] and those not provided [e.g. cervical cancer: aPR (95% CI): 2.43 (1.21, 4.86)]. Microfinance membership was not significantly associated with health insurance uptake and disease management outcomes.

Conclusions: In rural Kenya, a microfinance program integrated with healthcare delivery may be effective at increasing health screening. Interventions designed to thoughtfully and sustainably address structural barriers to healthcare will be critical to improving the health of those living in low-resource settings.
Determinants of life satisfaction and self-rated health in Iranian children and adolescents: A structure equation model
Authors: Angoorani Pooneh , Mahmoodi Zohreh , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Heshmat Ramin , Motlagh Mohammad Esmaeil , Qorbani Mostafa , Kelishadi Roya 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Life satisfaction (LS) and self-rated health (SRH) are related with health outcomes. It is expected that these items are also related to healthy behaviors. Therefore, this study was conducted in order to find out the main determinants of LS and SRH in nationwide representative sample of Iranian children and adolescents.Methods: This study was performed on 13834 students aged 7-18 years who were selected by multistage, stratified cluster sampling method from 30 provinces of Iran. LS and SRH were assessed through a questionnaire based on World Health Organization-Global School-based Student Health Survey protocols. Path analysis was applied to evaluate the relationships among the study variables using the structural modeling. Results: LS was directly affected by age (-0.037 in boys & -0.028 in girls); sedentary time (0.055 in boys & 0.048 in girls); school satisfaction (0.249 in boys & 0.250 in girls); and well-being (0.186 in boys & 0.176 in girls). SRH was directly affected by LS (0.28 in boys & girls) and school satisfaction (0.21 in boys & 0.22 in girls); and indirectly affected by age (-0.046 in boys & -0.017 in girls); sedentary time (-1.99 in boys & -0.145 in girls); family size (-0.005 in boys & -0.014 in girls); and socio-economic status (0.015 in boys & 0.058 in girls). Conclusions: This study indicated that school satisfaction had the greatest positive direct effect on both LS and SRH.
Clinicopathological study of mixed cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis secondary to Hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: LI CHAO , LI HANG , SU WEI , WEN YU-BING , YE WEI , YE WEN-LING , CAI JIAN-FANG , QIN XU-ZHEN , LI XUE-MEI , LI XUE-WANG 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background Cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis (CryoGn) caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection was rarely reported. Our study aimed to investigate the clinical features, renal pathology findings, and prognosis in patients with HBV related CryoGn. Methods This was a retrospective study including seven Chinese patients with HBV related CryoGn in a tertiary referral hospital from April 2016 to March 2019. The clinical and pathological data were collected and analyzed.Results Age at renal biopsy was 47±12 years, with female/male ration 3/4. Urine protein was 5.6(3.0, 6.6) g/d and five cases presented with nephrotic syndrome. The baseline eGFR was 23.5 (20.2, 46.3) ml/min per 1.73m2. The extrarenal manifestations included purpura (n=6), arthralgia (n=1), peripheral neuropathy (n=1), and cardiomyopathy (n=1). Six cases had type II cryoglobulinemia with IgMκ, the other one had type III. The median cryocrit was 4.0 (1.0, 15.0) %. Renal pathologic findings on light microscopy: endocapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis (Gn) (n=3), membranoproliferative Gn (n=3), and mesangial proliferative Gn (n=1). On immunofluorescence microscopy, the predominant type of immunoglobulin deposits was IgM(n=5). HBsAg and HBcAg deposits were found in one case. Ultrastructural studies showed granular subendothelial and mesangial electron-dense deposits in all patients and microtubules in one case. All patients received antiviral medications. They were given corticosteroid alone (n=2) or combined with cyclophosphamide (n=4) or mycophenolate mofetil (n=1). Two patients received plasmapheresis. The median follow-up time was 18 (6, 37) months. Four patients got remission, two patients died of pneumonia, and one progressed to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). At endpoint of follow-up, 24hUP was 2.1 (0.8-5.2) g/d, and eGFR was 55.3 (20.7, 111.8) ml/min per 1.73m2. The median cryocrit decreased to 1.0 (0, 5.75) %.Conclusions The etiology of mixed CryoGn should be screened for HBV infection. Endocapillary proliferative Gn and membranoproliferative Gn were the common pathologic patterns. Diagnosis and treatment in early-stage benefit patients’ renal outcomes. Immunosuppressive therapy should be considered for severe renal disease, based on efficient antiviral therapy.
TNFAIP8 inhibits the proliferation of gastric cancer cells by inhibiting mTOR-Akt-ULK1 signal pathway and activating autophagy
Authors: Chen Zheng , Zhang Jianguo , Dong Chenyang , Li Dongsheng , Yin Yuehan , Yu Wenhai , Chen Yuezhi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background : The purpose of this article was to study the role of TNFAIP8 in gastric cancer.
Methods : RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of TNFAIP8 mRNA and protein level in normal gastric mucosa cells and four gastric cancer cell lines. TNFAIP8 was silenced or overexpressed in two cell lines, CCK-8 cell viability was used, transwell experiment was used to detect cell invasion capability, and flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis. TNFAIP was silenced or overexpressed in a cell line, and nude mice were inoculated to form transplanted tumors. HE staining and immunohistochemistry staining were used to detect the histopathological changes of tumors.
Results : The mRNA and protein expression of TNFAIP8 was significantly up-regulated in GC patients and cells. After silencing and overexpressing TNFAIP8, gastric cancer cells with high expression increased, apoptosis decreased, and cell invasion increased. Expression of mTOR-Akt-ULK1 signal pathway was inhibited and autophagy signal was activated.
Conclusions : Our findings indicate that TNFAIP8 inhibited gastric cancer cells by inhibiting mTOR-Akt-ULK1 signal pathway and activating autophagy signal.
Patients’ perceptions of frequent hospital admissions: A qualitative study with older people above 65 years of age.
Authors: Huang Miaolin , Borght Carolien Van der , Leithaus Merel , Flamaing Johan , Goderis Geert 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Although ‘frequent flyer’ hospital admissions represent barely 3 to 8% of the total patient population in a hospital, they are responsible for a disproportionately high percentage (12 to 28%) of all admissions. Moreover, hospital admissions are an important contributor to health care costs and overpopulation in various hospitals. The aim of this research is to obtain a deeper insight into the phenomenon of frequent flyer hospital admissions. Our objectives were to understand the patients’ perspectives on the cause of their frequent hospital admissions and to identify the perceived consequences of the frequent flyer status.
Methods
This qualitative study took place at the University Hospital of Leuven. The COREQ guidelines were followed to provide rigor to the study. Patients were included when they had at least four overnight admissions in the past 12 months, an age above 65 years and hospital admission at the time of the study. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and encoded in NVivo.
Results
Thirteen interviews were collected. A total of 17 perceived causes for frequent hospital admission were identified, which could be divided into the following six themes: patient, drugs, primary care, secondary care, home and family. Most of the causes were preventable or modifiable. The perceived consequences of being a frequent flyer were divided into the following six themes: body, daily life functioning, social participation, mental status and spiritual dimension. Negative experiences were linked to frequent flying and could be situated mainly in the categories of social participation, mental status and spiritual dimensions.
Conclusions
Frequent hospital admissions may be conceived as an indicator, i.e., a ‘red flag’, of patients’ situations characterized by physical, mental, spiritual and social deprivation in their home situation.