bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications and Applications of Fermi Scale Quantum Gravity
Authors: Seshavatharam U.V.S. , Lakshminarayana S.
Published: November 2019

To understand the mystery of final unification, in our earlier publications, we proposed two bold concepts: 1) There exist three atomic gravitational constants associated with electroweak, strong and electromagnetic interactions. 2) There exists a strong elementary charge in such a way that its squared ratio with normal elementary charge is close to reciprocal of the strong coupling constant. In this paper we propose that, can be considered as a compound physical constant associated with proton mass, electron mass and the three atomic gravitational constants. With these ideas, an attempt is made to understand nuclear stability and binding energy. In this new approach, nuclear binding energy can be fitted with four simple terms having one unique energy coefficient with a formula, where is an estimated mean stable mass number. With this new approach, Newtonian gravitational constant can be estimated in a verifiable approach with a model relation of the form, where is the Fine structure constant. Estimated and is 62 ppm higher than the CODATA recommended It needs further investigation. Proceeding further, an attempt is made to fit the recommended quark masses.
ANALISIS PENGARUH INFILL OVERLAP TERHADAP KARAKTERISTIK PRODUK HASIL 3D PRINTING DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN MATERIAL POLY LACTIC ACID (PLA)
Authors: Ardion Fajri Sri , Sukanto Heru , Triyono Joko
Published: November 2019

Rapid prototyping or commonly known as additive manufacturing uses metal and non-metal semi-liquid materials which are compacted layer by layer. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is one of the methods in the additive manufacturing process that uses thermoplastic filaments (PLA and ABS). Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) or poly lactic acid is an organic plastic or bioplastic made from renewable biomass sources such as corn starch, pea starch and vegetable oils. Important factors affecting the quality of 3D Printing results are nozzle diameter, nozzle temperature, bed temperature, infill patern, infill percentage, print speed, layer thickness and infill overlap. Infill overlap is the percentage of overlapping processes of the filament during the printing process. This research was conducted to determine the effect of infill overlapon the physical and mechanical properties of 3d printing products. The infill overlapvariations used are 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% of the nozzle diameter. 50% variation shows better quality when compared to other variations for density test, tensile test, and bending test.
Pengaruh Kualitas Pelayanan, Citra Perusahaan dan Lokasi terhadap Kepuasan Nasabah di PT. Taspen (Persero) Cabang Surakarta
Authors: Kustiyah Eny , Astuti Istiqomah Dwi , Pawenang Supawi
Published: November 2019

This study aims to analyze the influence of service quality, company image and location, simultaneously and partially on customer satisfaction in TASPEN (Persero) company of Surakarta. Determination of the sample using purposive sampling technique to sample as many as 100 people. Technique of collecting data in this study use questionnaires. Technical of analyzing used multiple linear regression, F test, t test, the coefficient of determination. The results of the analysis showed the quality of service, corporate image and the location, simultaneously and partially have positive effect and significant impact on customer satisfaction in TASPEN (Persero) company of Surakarta.
Pengaruh Budaya Organisasi dan Kompetensi terhadap Motivasi Kerja PT. Selaras Mitra Sejahtera
Authors: Solehudin Solehudin
Published: November 2019

This study aims to determine whether the Effect of Organizational Culture and Competence on Employee Work Motivation PT Selaras Mitra Sejahtera partially or simultaneously. This research was conducted using quantitative descriptive and verification methods, namely collecting, presenting, analyzing, and testing hypotheses, and making conclusions and suggestions. Samples were collected using Saturated Sampling method with 140 respondents from a population of 140 employees. Data collection techniques using questionnaires and observations. To see the effect, the analysis used is path analysis. So that the results of the study will be known partially variable Organizational Culture and Competence have a significant effect on Work Motivation. The research results can be concluded that there is an influence of organizational culture and competence on work motivation. And there is a simultaneous influence of Organizational Culture (X1) and Competence (X2) on Work Motivation (Y). This shows that motivation and work discipline together have an influence on the performance of employees of PT. Putra Bintang Sembada.
Analisis Preferensi Konsumen Muda terhadap Iphone di Kota Bandung
Authors: Sharif Osa Omar Omar , Hartalita Lita
Published: November 2019

This research aims to determine theconsumer preferences on iPhone’s attributes in Bandung 2015. Researcher used five attributes which are: durability, operating system, screen size, camera, and RAM. Research method used in this study is a descriptive method, by using nonprobability sampling techniquewith a sample of 387 respondents. This paperusing conjoint analysis for smartphone users which are interested usingiPhone in Bandung to find the most wanted iPhone preference by consumers. The results indicate that all respondents generally making durability attributes as the main preference in choosing an iPhone. Based on the conjoint analysis it can be seen thatiPhone that consumers want is more than five years durability, iOS 8 for its operating system, 5.5 inches for its screen size, two gigabytes RAM capacity, and 12 megapixels of camera resolution.
Pengaruh Insentif, Kepemimpinan dan Budaya Organisasi terhadap Semangat Kerja Karyawan pada PT. Sung Hyun Indonesia di Pasuruan
Authors: Mashudi Mashudi , Yani Muhammad , Setiandayani Dhinda Meidita
Published: November 2019

This study aims to determine whether significant incentives, leadership, and organizational culture to employee morale. And to know whether the inter-variable incentives, leadership, and organizational culture that has the most significant effect on employee morale. This research method is quantitative method. The analysis technique used in this research is multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS (Statistical Program for Social Science) version 16 for windows. The results obtained based on the validity test show all existing questions are valid. To test the reliability of all variables. Partial research results show the role, spirit and spirit of the organization. The simultaneous test results show that the spirit, leadership and organizational culture have a simultaneous influence on employee morale, and leadership variables have the most significant effect on employee morale because of the greatest .and least significance compared to other independent variables. Variable incentives, leadership and organizational culture have strong relationships and have an effect on employee morale.
Pengaruh Kualitas Pelayanan terhadap Kepuasan pada PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia Cabang Baubau
Authors: Abdullah Rudi
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this research is to know how the influence of service quality to satisfaction at PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Branch Baubau. With the initial hypothesis that the quality of service affect the satisfaction. With a sample size of 39 people using a simple regression analysis and then descriptive. Based on analysis of research results and discussion in this study, it can be concluded that the quality of service is very influential on satisfaction at PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Branch Baubau. This can be seen from the regression equation Y = 5.833 + 0.686 X This shows that if there is a change in service quality dimension of I unit, it will cause changes to the satisfaction of 68.6%. Quality of service influence on satisfaction can be seen from the significance value t on a simple regression analysis that sig t = 0.00 <a = 0.05. The value of correlation coefficient (R) of 0.809 can be interpreted that the correlation relationship between service quality independent variable (X) to satisfaction (Y) is positive.
Analysis Of Corporate Actions And Effect On Stock Trading The Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Fitriana Fitriana , Tahmat Tahmat , Firdaus Abang , Ahmaddien Iskandar
Published: November 2019

This study aims to look at the effect of the corporate action against trading on the Stock Exchange be something interesting to do research on five companies that perform corporate actions. Data were analyzed using descriptive methods and comparative analysis of the event study method with a different test two parties. Event windows use 15 days prior to the corporate action and 15 days after the corporate action. Results of research on five companies that perform corporate actions earned actions stock buy-backs, stock-dividend and stock split no significant effect on actual returns after the announcement date. On the trading frequency, action stock-buyback have significant differences, whereas stock dividend and stock-split not. On average trading value, action stock-dividend and stock-buyback not any significant difference, while stock-split showed a significant difference. The study results are not normal events of their return on stock dividends 7 days after the date of announcement of the action stock-split-return normal not occur on days 3 and 4, while on the corporate action buy-back not occur. Stock-dividend while the information content contained in stock-split and buy-back did not show a significant investor reaction.
Kajian Sosial, Ekonomi Dan Lingkungan Terhadap Perkembangan Wisata Delta Fishing Buduran Sidoarjo
Authors: Rizal As'at , Miftahorrotmat Agus , Indayani Lilik
Published: November 2019

Tourism has an influence on social, economic and environmental life for the people of the tourism area, both from positive and negative sessions, from the economic sector, there are a lot of jobs that arise starting from the provision of accommodation services, restaurants, tourism services, to souvenir businesses. This development will also have an impact on State and Regional revenues from the tax sector. Priono (2011), on the other hand, also changes in social society and the environment

The purpose of this study is to determine social, economic and environmental develop- ment of tourism objects. And examine social, economic and environmental development of tourist objects

This type of research survives with a qualitative approach, data collection techniques using in-depth interviews or in-depth interviews with informants including residents around the area, tourism and tourist managers and key informants include community leaders, youth organizations. Data analysis techniques used data triangulation and the Miless Hubermen method.

The results of the study show that: 1) the development of Delta Fishing tourism objects from social, economic and environmental studies on the area of tourism objects in gen- eral has a positive impact. 2). Social studies have shifted more openly to migrants. 3). An economic study shows medium business opportunities and provides economic activities such as food, rice stalls, parking lots. 4). Environmental studies have a negative impact on the environment due to tourist activities close to villages and access to village roads that cause pollution and are in the rice fields.
Fuzzy Mamdani Pada Tanaman Tomat Hidroponik
Authors: Prasetya Budi , Setiawan Aries Boedi , Hidayatulail Basitha Febrinda
Published: November 2019

Tomato plants are one of the many agricultural commodities needed by the community. Most farmers grow tomatoes in conventional ways in the fields, fields or plantations without the control and measurement relying on experience and habitual factors, so the need for pH and temperature of the planting space of tomato plants cannot be given according to their needs, while the pH requirements of tomato plants range 6.5 and the planting room temperature is 28 °C, and soil moisture is 70%, using the hydroponic planting method which is automatically controlled by the Arduino-based microcontroller with the application of fuzzy mamdani making it easy to do pH setting of planting media using soil pH sensor as input and temperature of planting room using LM35 temperature sensor, and soil moisture sensor using humidity sensor fc28, as the system output fan and selenoid valve are used. To find out plant nutrition, one of the indicators is the pH value of soil media, room temperature and humidity of the planting medium.
Penjadwalan Pakan Dan Pengendalian Suhu Pada Kandang Babi Secara Otomatis Berbasis Arduino
Authors: Boro Aloysius Gonzaga Lai , Setiawan Aries Boedi , Dirgantara Wahyu
Published: November 2019

he research was conducted on the pig farm owned by Mr. Santo, at the West Bandulan, Sukun Sub District of Malang in East Java province for 4 weeks (1 month). This research uses 4 pigs where 2 tails are fed automatically and the 2 tail still uses manual way. The purpose of this research is to provide farmers with information on the effects of feeding timely on the increase in pig weight. The method used is the experiment (experimental) consisting of 2 experiments that were first performed automatic feeding of 2 pigs that both feed manually against 2 pigs so as to find a comparison of The experiment. Looking at this, then the author devised a tool scheduling and automatic feeding of Arduino-based Mega 2560. With this tool, the author hopes to help pig farmers in increasing pig weights and relieve breeder's work.  Thereby can improve the welfare of pig farmers. Results of the experiment showed the growth of pigs using the automated system better with the result 0.58 – 0.68 kg per day.
Real Time Clock Sebagai Tracking Sinar Matahari Pada Solar Cell Berbasis Mikrokontroler Untuk Lampu Taman
Authors: Qomaruddin Moch Nur , Khairi Matlubul
Published: November 2019

One of the new and renewable energy is the utilization of sunlight into electricity. which can be used to be converted into electrical energy using solar panels. Installation of solar panels that are installed for garden lights so far are often still placed in a static position (silent) at an angle of 90⁰, while the sun moves from sunrise to sunset. Because it will cause maximum energy absorption in solar panels placed in a static position only at12:00. To overcome this problem a system is needed to track the position of the sun so that it is always perpendicular to the surface of the solar panel. Design and build Garden lights with a solar light tracking system on a microcontroller-based solar panel will later be made to move as it follows the direction of the sun's movement every hour, from sunrise to sunset. This tool will detect the time setting inputted by Real Time Clock (RTC) which is then processed by a microcontroller to drive a servo motor that functions as a solar panel drive machine so that the position of the solar panel will always be perpendicular to the sun throughout the day and the absorption of energy in the solar panel will more leverage. From the results of tests that have been done, the increase in the voltage of solar panels using a tracking system compared to solar panels without using a tracking system is 7.85%.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Berfikir Kritis Dengan Pendekatan Problem Based Learning
Authors: Priawasana Endra , Waris Waris
Published: November 2019

Basically students have critical thinking skills. Students 'critical thinking skills that are still low are needed in a way so that students' critical thinking skills increase, With the Problem Based Learning learning model in the hope that students' critical thinking skills will increase. the purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness of problem based learning in improving students' critical thinking skills. This type of research is Action Research, with the stages of planning, action, observation and reflection. This research was conducted in two cycles, with each cycle consisting of two lessons. The subjects in this study were MTs students. In Ambulu sub-district. Data collection techniques use tests and non-tests. The results showed that student learning outcomes in the first cycle got a score of 45 with very low criteria, in cycle II it increased to 92.5 with very good criteria. Students' critical thinking skills in the first cycle experienced 36% classical completeness with very low criteria, in cycle II it increased to 80% with high criteria. The results of the study prove that the application of the Problem Based Learning model is very effective in improving students' critical thinking skills.
Reorientasi Masyarakat Bondowoso Dalam Memilih Lembaga Pendidikan Dasar Islam
Authors: Mas'ud Mas'ud , Prayogo Muhammad Suwignyo
Published: November 2019

The awareness of Bondowoso society about the importance of education in put their children into quality Islamic education which is labeled as Islamic schools is not an easy thing for parents to do, since the competition for basic Islamic education in the competitive era is more stringent. Hence, this research is conducted based on the academic anxiety about the Islamic educational, that is on the factors that motivate Bondowoso society in choosing representative basic Islamic education and represent advanced school /madrasah in Bondowoso region that is supported by strategies that have been conducted with its contribution to the society. This research is descriptive qualitative research. The object of this research is MI At-Taqwa Bondowoso. In collecting the data, the researcher uses non-participatory observation, in-depth interviews and is equipped with document and literature review. The technique in processing data is by data classification, filtering data, and analysing data by using interactive model of Miles, Huberman and Saldana, namely data condensation, data presentation and drawing conclusions. The results of this study showed that there are many factors which  is underlying Bondowoso society in choosing Islamic Education, especially in MI At-Taqwa Bondowoso, they are: 1) religious factors such as character education (both moral and performance), its religious / ubudiyah and its religious knowledge is better; 2) general knowledge factors. MI At-Taqwa is able to prove its various achievements to the public. The Parents' impression of MI At-Taqwa is the institution is able to cover the lessons well between general subjects and Religion, the commitment of educators / teachers in managing education has plus value for parents. While the contributions that have made by the school is the existence of various academic and non-academic achievements that have been produced by MI At-Taqwa as real evidence to the progress of Bondowoso society resources.
The effect of intraoperative lidocaine versus esmolol infusion on postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bajracharya Joshan Lal , Subedi Asish , Pokharel Krishna , Bhattarai Balkrishna
Published: November 2019

As a part of multimodal analgesia for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, both intraoperative lidocaine and esmolol facilitate postoperative analgesia. Our objective was to compare these two emerging strategies that challenge the use of intraoperative opioids. We aimed to assess if intraoperative esmolol infusion is not inferior to lidocaine infusion for opioid consumption after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: In this prospective, randomized, double-blind, non-inferiority clinical trial, 90 female patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy received either intravenous (IV) lidocaine bolus 1.5 mg/kg at induction followed by an infusion (1.5 mg/ kg/hour) or IV bolus of esmolol 0.5 mg/kg at induction followed by an infusion (5-15 µg/kg/min) till the end of surgery. Remaining aspect of anesthesia followed a standard protocol apart from no intraoperative opioid supplementation. Postoperatively, patients received either morphine or tramadol IV to maintain visual analogue scale (VAS) scores ≤ 3. The primary outcome was opioid consumption (in morphine equivalents) during the first 24 postoperative hours. Pain and sedation scores, time to first perception of pain and void, and occurrence of nausea/vomiting were secondary outcomes measured up to 24 hours postoperatively. Results: Two patients in each group were excluded from the analysis. The postoperative median (IQR) morphine equivalent consumption in patients receiving esmolol was 1 (0-1.5) mg compared to 1.5 (1-2) mg in lidocaine group ( p =0.27). The median pain scores at various time points were similar between the two groups ( p >0.05). More patients receiving lidocaine were sedated in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) than those receiving esmolol (p<0.05); however, no difference was detected later. Conclusion: Infusion of esmolol is not inferior to lidocaine in terms of opioid requirement and pain severity in the first 24 hours after surgery. Patients receiving lidocaine were more sedated during their stay in PACU than those receiving esmolol.
The emotional labour of quality improvement work in end of life care: a qualitative study of Patient and Family Centred Care in England
Authors: Boulton Richard , Boaz Annette
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND
There is a growing emphasis on understanding patient experience in order to inform efforts to support improvement. This paper reports findings from an implementation study of an evidence-based intervention called Patient and Family Centred Care (PFCC) designed to tap into patient experiences as a basis for improvement. In this study the PFCC intervention was spread to a new service area (end of life care) and delivered at scale in England. The findings presented here focus specifically on one key aspect of the intervention: staff shadowing of patients, and the experiences of staff carrying out shadowing for the purposes of service improvements.
METHODS
The study methods were ethnographic observations of key events, semi-structured interviews with members of participating teams and the programme implementation support team and managers, and a review of the documents used in the set up and running of the programme.
RESULTS
One of the key strengths of the PFCC approach is to encourage staff through shadowing to engage with patient experience of services. Many staff described the process of shadowing as a transformative experience that alerted them to immediate areas where their services could be improved. However, engaging with patient experience of end of life care services also had unintended consequences for some staff in the form of emotional labour. Furthermore, we observed difficulties encountered by staff that are not accounted for in the existing PFCC literature relating to how care service structures may unevenly distribute the amount of ‘emotional labour’ that staff members need to invest in implementing the programme.
CONCLUSIONS
Connecting with patient experience is a crucial aspect of a number of quality improvement interventions that aim to help staff to engage with the lived experience of their services and reconnect their motivations for working in the health care system. However, there may be unintended consequences for health care service staff, particularly in sensitive areas of service delivery such as end of life care. The ‘emotional labour’ for staff of engaging in quality improvement work informed by patient experience should be considered in planning and supporting patient experience led quality improvement.
Comparison of standard and over-the-head method of chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation - a simulation study
Authors: Ćwiertnia Michał , Kawecki Marek , Ilczak Tomasz , Mikulska Monika , Dutka Mieczysław , Bobiński Rafał
Published: November 2019

Background: Maintaining highly effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be particularly difficult when artificial ventilation using a bag-valve-mask device, combined with chest compression have to be carried out by one person. The aim of the study is to compare the quality of CPR conducted by one paramedic using chest compression from the patient’s side with compression conducted from the ‘over-the-head’ position. Methods: The subject of the study were two methods of CPR – ‘standard’ (STD) and ‘over-the-head’ (OTH). The STD method consisted of cycles of 30 chest compressions from the patient’s side, and two attempts at artificial ventilation after moving round to behind the patient’s head. In the OTH method, both compressions and ventilations were conducted from behind the patient’s head. Results: Both CPR methods were conducted by 38 paramedics working in medical response teams. Statistical analysis was conducted on the data collected, giving the following results: the average time of the interruptions between compression cycles (STD 9.184 s, OTH 7.316 s, p < 0.001); the depth of compression 50–60 mm (STD 50.65%, OTH 60.22%, p < 0.001); the rate of compression 100–120/min. (STD 46.39%, OTH 53.78%, p < 0.001); complete chest wall recoil (STD 84.54%, OTH 91.46%, p < 0.001); correct hand position (STD 99.32%, OTH method 99.66%, p < 0.001). A statistically significant difference was demonstrated in the results to the benefit of the OTH method in the above parameters. The remaining parameters showed no significant differences in comparison to reference values. Conclusions: The higher quality of CPR in the simulated research using the OTH method by a single person justifies the use of this method in a wider range of emergency interventions.
KARAOKE: Krill oil versus placebo in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Laslett Laura L , Antony Benny , Wluka Anita , Hill Catherine , March Lyn , Keen Helen I , Otahal Petr , Cicuttini Flavia , Jones Graeme
Published: November 2019

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and important cause of pain and disability, but interventions aimed at modifying structures visible on imaging have been disappointing. While OA affects the whole joint, synovitis and effusion have been recognised as having a role in the pathogenesis of OA. Krill oil reduces knee pain and systemic inflammation and could be used for targeting inflammatory mechanisms of OA. Methods: 260 patients with clinical knee OA, significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis present on MRI will be recruited in 5 Australian cities (Hobart, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth). They will be randomly allocated to the two arms of the study, receiving 2g/day krill oil or inert placebo daily for 6 months. MRI of the study knee will be performed at screening, and after 6 months. Knee symptoms, function and MRI structural abnormalities will be assessed using validated methods. Safety data will be recorded. Primary outcomes are absolute change in knee pain (assessed by visual analog score) and change in size of knee effusion-synovitis over 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes include improvement in knee pain over 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 weeks. The primary analyses will be intention-to-treat analyses of primary and secondary outcomes. Per protocol analyses adjusting for missing data and for treatment compliance will be performed as the secondary analyses. Discussion: This study will provide high-quality evidence to assess whether krill oil 2g/day reduces pain and effusion-synovitis size in older adults with clinical knee OA and knee effusion-synovitis. If krill oil is effective and confirmed to be safe, we will provide compelling evidence that krill oil improves pain and function, changes disease trajectory and slows disease progression in OA. Given the lack of approved therapies for slowing disease progression in OA, and moderate cost of krill oil, these findings will be readily translated into clinical practice.
Muscle building supplement use in Australian adolescent boys: Relationships with body image, weight lifting, and sports engagement
Authors: Yager Zali , McLean Sian A
Published: November 2019

Background:The extent and implications of muscle building protein supplement use among adolescents is relatively unknown. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of protein powder, creatine, and anabolic steroid use in a sample of 14-16 year-old boys in Australia, and the predictors of actual use, and intentions to use protein powder. Methods:Data were obtained from questionnaires with Australian adolescent boys aged 14-16 years from one independent boy’s school in Melbourne (N=237). Hierarchical linear and logistic regressions were used to determine the predictors of intentions, and actual use of protein powder. Results:49.8% of boys reported current use of, and 62% intended to use protein powder; 8.4% used creatine, and 4.2% used anabolic steroids. Higher levels of drive for muscularity, participation in weight training, and playing a greater number of sports were significant predictors of higher current use and intentions to use protein powder, but age, BMI, body esteem, and ethnicity were not. Conclusions: Prevalence of muscle building supplement use was relatively high among this adolescent population. This research has implications for intervention and prevention programs to educate young boys about muscle building supplements to reduce negative physical and psychological health effects of their use.
Tobacco Use and Associated Risk Factors in Burkina Faso: Results from a Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey.
Authors: Bonnechère Bruno , Kadari Cissé , Tiéba Millogo , Gautier Ouédraogo H. , Franck Garanet , Mariam Ouedraogo A. , Gabriela Boyle , Sékou Samadoulougou , Seni Kouanda , Fati Kirakoya-Samadoulougou
Published: November 2019

Tobacco is a leading preventable cause of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Studies characterizing the prevalence of tobacco use in low-income countries are lacking. This study describes the prevalence of tobacco use in Burkina Faso and its associated factors. Methods : Data from the 2013 Burkina Faso World Health Organization (WHO) Stepwise approach to Surveillance (STEPS) were analyzed. The prevalence of any tobacco product use, cigarette smoking, and other tobacco use was calculated. Logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with tobacco use. Overall, 4,691 people were included in this analysis. Results: The prevalence of any tobacco use was 19.8% (95% CI: 18.4–21.2). Tobacco use was higher for men (29.2% [27.0–31.5]) than women (11.8% [10.3–13.4]). The prevalence of smoked tobacco was 11.3% (10.3–12.4), with a significantly higher prevalence among men (24.5% [22.1–27.0]) than women (0.1% [0.01–0.3]). The overall prevalence of other tobacco use was 8.9% (7.4–10.7), with lower values for men (5.6% [4.1–7.2]) compared to women (11.7% [9.4–14.1]). Tobacco smoking among men was significantly associated with an increased age and alcohol consumption. The analysis of risk factors for other tobacco use stratified by gender showed that age, education, residence, and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with consumption for women, and age and alcohol consumption for men. Conclusion: Tobacco use is common in Burkina Faso. To effectively reduce tobacco use in Burkina Faso, a comprehensive tobacco control program should consider associated factors, such as gender, age, and alcohol consumption.
Predisposing factors influencing occupational injury among frontline building construction workers in Ghana
Authors: AMISSAH JOHN , Badu Eric , Agyei-Baffour Peter , Nakua Emmanuel Kwaku , Mensah Isaac
Published: November 2019

Objective
This study aims to examine the predisposing factors influencing occupational injuries among frontline construction workers in Ghana. A cross-sectional survey was carried out with 634 frontline construction workers in Kumasi metropolis of Ghana using a structured questionnaire. The study was conducted from December 2016 to June 2017 using a household-based approach. The respondents were selected through a two-stage sampling approach. A multivariate logistics regression model was employed to examine the association between risk factors and injury. Data was analyzed employing descriptive and inferential statistics with STATA version 14.

Results
The study found an injury prevalence of 57.91% among the workers. Open Wounds (37.29%) and fractures (6.78%) were the common and least injuries recorded respectively. The proximal factors (age, sex of worker, income) and distal factors (eg. work structure, trade specialization, working hours, job/task location, and monthly off days) were risk factors for occupational injuries among frontline construction workers. The study recommends that policymakers and occupational health experts should incorporate the proximal and distal factors in the design of injury prevention as well as management strategies.
Associations of mental disorders and neurotropic parasitic diseases: a meta-analysis in developing and emerging countries
Authors: Daré Labanté Outcha , Bruand Pierre-Emile , Gérard Daniel , Marin Benoît , Lameyre Valérie , Boumédiène Farid , Preux Pierre-Marie
Published: November 2019

Although they are declining worldwide, neurotropic parasitic diseases are still common in developing and emerging countries. The aim of this study was to estimate the pooled prevalence and pooled association measures of comorbidities between mental disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia) and neurotropic parasitic diseases (malaria, cysticercosis, toxoplasmosis, human African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease, and human toxocariasis) in developing and emerging countries.

As the first meta-analysis on this topic, this study was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (N°CRD42017056521). The Medline, Embase, Lilacs, and Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology databases were used to search for articles without any restriction in language or date. We evaluated the quality of studies independently by two investigators using the Downs and Black assessment grid and pooled estimates using the random-effects method from CMA (Comprehensive Meta Analysis) Version 3.0.

In total, 18 studies published between 1997 and 2016 met our inclusion criteria. We found that the prevalence of anxiety and depression in people suffering from Chagas disease and/or neurocysticercosis was 44.9% (95% CI, 34.4 – 55.9). In 16 pooled studies that included 1,782 people with mental disorders and 1,776 controls, toxoplasmosis and/or toxocariasis were associated with increased risk of schizophrenia and/or bipolar disorders (odds ratio = 2.3; 95% CI, 1.7 – 3.2). Finally, toxocariasis and/or toxoplasmosis were associated with an increased risk of the onset of schizophrenia (odds ratio = 2.4; 95% CI, 1.7 – 3.4).

Our pooled estimates show that the associations between diseases studied are relatively high in developing and emerging countries. This meta-analysis supports the hypothesis that toxoplasmosis could be the cause of schizophrenia. These findings could prove useful to researchers who want to further explore and understand the associations studied.

Keywords: Meta-analysis, association, co-morbidities, mental disorders, neurotropic parasitic diseases.
A Trial Protocol for the Effectiveness of Digital Interventions for Preventing Depression in Adolescents: The Future Proofing Study
Authors: Werner-Seidler Aliza , Huckvale Kit , Larsen Mark E. , Calear Alison L. , Maston Kate , Johnston Lara , Torok Michelle , O’Dea Bridianne , Batterham Philip J. , Schweizer Susanne , Skinner S. Rachel , Steinbeck Katharine , Ratcliffe Julie , Oei Ju-Lee , Patton George , Wong Iana , Beames Joanne , Wong Quincy J. J. , Lingam Raghu , Boydell Katherine , Salmon Allison M. , Cockayne Nicole , Mackinnon Andrew , Christensen Helen
Published: November 2019

Background Depression frequently first emerges during adolescence, and one in five young people will experience an episode of depression by the age of 18 years. Despite advances in treatment, there has been limited progress in addressing the burden at a population level. Accordingly, there has been growing interest in prevention approaches as an additional pathway to address depression. Depression can be prevented using evidence-based psychological programs. However, barriers to implementing and accessing these programs remain, typically reflecting a requirement for delivery by clinical experts and high associated delivery costs. Digital technologies, specifically smartphones, are now considered a key strategy to overcome the barriers inhibiting access to mental health programs. The Future Proofing Study is a large-scale school-based trial investigating whether Cognitive Behaviour Therapies (CBT) delivered by smartphone application can prevent depression.Methods A randomized controlled trial targeting up to 20,000 Year 8 Australian secondary school students will be conducted. In Stage I, schools will be randomized at the cluster level to receive either the CBT intervention app (SPARX) or to a non-active control group comparator. The primary outcome will be symptoms of depression and secondary outcomes include psychological distress, anxiety and insomnia. At the 12-month follow-up, participants in the intervention arm with elevated depressive symptoms will participate in an individual-level RCT (Stage II) and be randomised to receive a second CBT app which targets sleep difficulties (Sleep Ninja) or a control condition. Assessments will occur at post-intervention (both trial stages), and at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48- and 60-months post-baseline. Primary analyses will use an intention-to-treat approach and compare changes in symptoms from baseline to follow-up relative to the control group using mixed effect models.Discussion This is the first trial testing the effectiveness of smartphone apps delivered to school students to prevent depression at scale. Results from this trial will provide much needed insight into the feasibility of this approach. They stand to inform policy and commission decisions concerning if and how such programs should be deployed in school-based settings in Australia and beyond.
Effects of alternate-day fasting on body weight and dyslipidaemia in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Cai Hua , Qin Yue-Lan , Shi Ze-Ya , Chen Jin-Hui , Zeng Min-Jie , Zhou Wei , Chen Ru-Qun , Chen Zhi-Yuan
Published: November 2019

Background: Alternate-day fasting (ADF) is a novel diet therapy that may achieve reduction in body weight and improvement of dyslipidaemia, but the impact of this diet on patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ADF on the body weight and lipid profile of individuals with NAFLD.
Methods: NAFLD patients (n=271) were randomised to the ADF group, time-restricted feeding (TRF) group, or the control group and subjected to the respective diet for 12 weeks. Anthropometric measurements (body weight, fat mass/fat-free mass) were performed, and plasma lipids were analysed enzymatically.
Results: Within 4 weeks, the body weight decreased significantly (P<0.001) in the ADF group by 4.56±0.41 kg (6.1 ± 0.5%) and the TRF group by 3.62±0.65 kg (4.83±0.9%) compared to the control group, and it decreased even more after 12 weeks in both groups (ADF: -4.04±0.54 kg, 5.4±0.7%; TRF: -3.25±0.67 kg, 4.3±0.9%). Fat mass was significantly reduced by ADF (-3.49±0.37 kg; 11±1.2%) and TRF (-2.91±0.41 kg; 9.6±1.3%), with ADF leading to a further reduction in fat mass after 12 weeks (-3.48±0.38 kg; 11±1.2%). Total cholesterol was significantly decreased at both time points in the ADF group (-0.91±0.07 mmol/L; 18.5±1.5%) compared to the control and TRF groups. Both ADF (-0.64±0.06 mmol/L; 25±1.9%) and TRF (0.58±0.07 mmol/L; 20±1.7%) achieved a significant reduction in serum triglycerides (P<0.001) after 12 weeks. Changes in fat free mass, HDL, LDL, fasting insulin, glucose, liver stiffness, and systolic or diastolic blood pressure did not differ between the groups.
Conclusions: ADF appears to be an effective diet therapy for individuals with NAFLD that can achieve weight loss and improvement of dyslipidaemia within a relatively short period of time (4 to 12 weeks). Potential preventive effects of ADF on cardiovascular disease need to be confirmed by future investigations.Trial registration: ChiCTR1900024411, this trial was retrospectively registered on July 10, 2019
Short-term and long-term unintended impacts of a pilot reform on Beijing's zero markup drug policy: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Zeng Jianying , Chen Xiwen , Fu Hongqiao , Lu Ming , Jian Weiyan
Published: November 2019

In September 2012, Beijing, the capital of China, selected five tertiary hospitals as pilots to remove the previously allowed 15% markup for drug sales. However, while most research demonstrated the significant decrease in drug sales, the core issue of high health expenditure was not well solved because of the unintended policy impact. This study aimed to empirically evaluate the short-term and long-term unintended impacts on controlling medical expenses of Beijing’s zero markup drug policy from 2012 to 2015.Methods This study extracted 2012-2015 individual-level data from the Beijing Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (UEBMI) database and performed a propensity score-matched analysis to evaluate the short-term and long-term impacts on controlling medical expenses. All inpatients in the 5 pilot reform hospitals were selected as the intervention group, while inpatients in other tertiary hospitals were selected as the control group.Results A total of 520,996 inpatients were extracted in this study. For patients in the pilot hospitals, the total expenditures per admission decreased from 17,140.3 yuan in 2012 to 15,430.1 yuan in 2013 and then increased to 16,789.8 yuan in 2015. Expenditure on drugs reduced from 5,811.7 yuan in 2012 to 3,903.4 yuan in 2015. However, a significant substitution effect of medical consumables was first observed in the third quarter of 2014, which undermined the impact of the policy. In the long-term, the intervention group and control group demonstrated the same trend.Conclusion After the zero markup drug policy, expenditure on drugs revealed a continuous decline. However, the decline in total expenditure was weakened by the substitution effect of medical consumables in the long term.
Diagnostic potential of ultrasound in carpal tunnel syndrome with different etiologies: correlation of sonographic median nerve measures with electrodiagnostic severity.
Authors: Elnady Basant , Rageh Elsayed M , Ekhouly Tohamy H. , Fathy Sabry M. , Alshaar Mohamed , Fouda El Saeed , Attar Mohammed , Abdelaal Ahmed M. , Tantawi Ahmed El , Algethami Mohammed M , Bong David Andrew
Published: November 2019

BackgroundCarpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the commonest entrapment neuropathy. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy and validity of high resolution musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of CTS in the Saudi population.MethodsSixty patients were diagnosed clinically to have CTS involving 89 wrists that were confirmed by neurophysiologic studies. Each affected wrist was characterized as idiopathic or associated with either diabetes mellitis or hypothyroidism and were assigned a severity grade based on results of neurophysiologic studies. Seventy-six healthy wrists from fifty age, sex and BMI matched healthy subjects were included in the control group. High resolution ultrasound (US) was performed to assess median nerve cross sectional area distal (CSAd) at the entry to the carpal tunnel and proximally (CSAp) at the level of pronator quadratus muscle with a further calculation of their difference (ΔCSA) and their mean average or CSAd+CSAp/2 (CSApd).ResultsThere was a significant difference between both groups regarding mean±SD of CSAd, CSAp, ∆CSA, and CSApd (p = 0.0001). A positive significant correlation was also found between the CSAd, ∆ CSA and the CSApd measurements with neurophysiologic severity grade of CTS (P=0.001). A ∆CSA threshold of 2.5 mm2 showed the highest sensitivity and specificity to diagnose CTS in Saudis. Conclusion High resolution ultrasound is a valid and accurate diagnostic modality in carpal tunnel syndrome and correlated to CTS severity. A ∆CSA greater than 2.5 mm2 is considered a valid diagnostic value for CTS in our Saudi population. CTS in our patients with diabetes tend to have greater median nerve US measurement values.
Protocol for a Randomized Control Trial of the Caregiver Support Intervention with Syrian Refugees in Lebanon
Authors: Miller Kenneth E , Arnous Maguy , Tossyeh Fadila , Chen Alexandra , Bakolis Ioannis , Koppenol-Gonzalez Gabriela V. , Nahas Nayla , Jo Mark J.D.
Published: November 2019

Background Chronic stress has been shown to negatively impact parenting among refugees and other war-affected communities. Persistent parental stress and distress may lead to unresponsive, anxious, or overly harsh parenting and a corresponding increase in emotional and behaviour problems among children. Most parenting interventions emphasize the acquisition of knowledge and skills; however, this overlooks the deleterious effects of chronic stress on parenting. The Caregiver Support Intervention (CSI) aims to strengthen quality of parenting skills by lowering stress and improving psychosocial wellbeing among refugee parents of children aged 3-12, while also increasing knowledge and skills related to positive parenting. The CSI is a 9-session psychosocial group intervention delivered by non-specialist providers. It is intended for all adult primary caregivers of children in high-adversity communities, rather than specifically targeting caregivers already showing signs of elevated distress.Methods The primary objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the CSI through a parallel group randomized controlled study with Syrian refugee families in North Lebanon. Participants will be primary caregivers of children ages 3-12, with one index child per family. Families will be randomized to the CSI or a waitlist control condition. A total of 240 families (480 caregivers) will be recruited into the study. Randomization will be at the family level, and CSI groups will be held separately for women and men. The study will be implemented in two waves. Outcomes for both arms will be assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and at a three-month follow-up. The primary outcome is quality of parenting skills. Secondary outcomes include parental warmth and sensitivity, harsh parenting, parenting knowledge, and child psychosocial wellbeing. Putative mediators of the CSI on parenting are caregiver stress, distress, psychosocial wellbeing, and stress management.Discussion This trial may establish the Caregiver Support Intervention as an effective intervention for strengthening parenting in families living in settings of high adversity, particularly refugee communities.
Application of Multidisciplinary Intervention Model in Nursing of Older patients with Diabetes
Authors: Zhao Zhonghong , Wang Xiaoyun
Published: November 2019

Objective To evaluate the application of multidisciplinary treatment (MDT) model in nursing of elderly patients with diabetes.Methods A total of 166 elderly diabetic patients were retrospectively selected. They were randomly and equally divided into the MDT group and the control group. The patients in the control group were treated with the traditional nursing method. And the patients in the MDT group were treated with a multidisciplinary team. The hospitalization time, hospital costs, incidence of diabetes-related complications, and nursing satisfaction were analyzed and compared.Results The hospitalization time and hospitalization costs were significantly lower in the MDT group than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The satisfaction rate of MDT group (98.3%) was significantly higher compared with the control group (86.6%; P < 0.05). Besides, the incidence of complications was significantly lower in the MDT group (10.8%) when comparing to the control group (40.1%; P < 0.05).Conclusion The application of MDT model in elderly diabetic care was superior to traditional routine nursing model, shortening the hospital stay and hospitalization costs, decreasing the incidence of complications and improving the nursing satisfaction of patients and their families, thereby improving the long-term prognosis and life quality of elderly diabetic patients.