bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh pengembangan karir terhadap motivasi kerja karyawan melalui kepuasan kerja
Authors: Safitri Farita Dian Sofa
Published: September 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pengembangan karir terhadap motivasi kerja, dan menganalisis kepuasan kerja sebagai mediasi pengembangan karir terhadap motivasi kerja. Merupakan penelitian Kuantitatif dengan jenis explanatory research, penelitian pada Balai Besar Pemberdayaan Masyarakat dan Desa di Malang. Dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 31 pegawai Balai Besar Pemberdayaan Masyarakat dan Desa di Malang. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner, yang disusun dengan Skala Likert. Analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis jalur (Path Analysis). Hasil menunjukkan bahwa pengembangan karir berpengaruh signifikan terhadap motivasi kerja karyawan,  dan kepuasan kerja memdiasi pengaruh pengembangan karir terhadap motivasi kerja karyawan.
Pengaruh pengetahuan kerja, kemampuan kerja dan pengalaman kerja terhadap kinerja karyawan PT. Muslimat Nusantara Utama Kabupaten Malang
Authors: Puspita Ria
Published: September 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh pengetahuan kerja, kemampuan kerja, dan pengalaman kerja, terhadap kinerja karyawan. Jenis penelitian eksplanaltory research, dilakukan pada PT. Muslimat Nusantara Utama Kabupaten Malang, dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 35 karyawan. Data dikumpulkan menggunakan kuesioner, yang disusun dengan Skala Likert 5 poin. Teknik analisa yang digunakan adalah regresi linier berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengetahuan kerja memberikan pengaruh signifikan  terhadap kinerja karyawan, kemampuan kerja memberikan pengaruh signifikan  terhadap kinerja karyawan, dan pengalaman kerja memberikan pengaruh signifikan  terhadap kinerja karyawan.
Pengaruh budaya organisasi terhadap loyalitas karyawan melalui komitmen organisasional sebagai variable intervening
Authors: Rose Venny
Published: September 2020

Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui pengaruh langsung  budaya organisasi terhadap loyalitas karyawan, dan pengaruh budaya organisasional terhadap loyalitas karyawan melalui komitmen organisasional. Penelitian dilakukan pada UKM Oyisam clothing, dengan menggunakan sampel seluruh karyawan yang berjumlah 35 orang. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner yang disusun dalam Skala Likert 5 point. Variabel budaya organisasi menggunakan indikator inovasi, perhatian detail, orientasi hasil, orientasi orang, orientasi tim, keagresifan, dan kemantapan. Loyalitas karyawan diukur dengan indikator ketaatan, tanggungjawab, memberikan sumbangan pemikiran, dan jujur. Komitmen diukur menggunakan indikator pesonal, karakteristik pekerjaan, struktur, dan pengalaman kerja. Teknik analisis data menggunakan Path Analysis. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa budaya organisasi berpengaruh secara langsung terhadap loyalitas karyawan, selain itu budaya organisasi berpengaruh terhadap loyalitas karyawan dimediasi oleh komitmen organisasional
Ekuitas merek berbasis pelanggan
Authors: Hawa Nur Laily
Published: September 2020

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui penilaian responden dan untuk mengetahui proses pengambilan keputusan kuliah di STIE Indocakti Malang serta untuk mengetahui pengaruh ekuitas merek terhadap keputusan mahasiswa kuliah di STIE Indocakti Malang. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskriptif dan penelitian verifikatif. Data dikumpulkan dengan teknik observasi, wawancara dan kuesioner dan di  uji validitas dan reliabilitasnya. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan analisis Structural Equation Modeling. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa ekuitas merek STIE Indocakti Malang termasuk kategori tinggi dan juga untuk pengambilan keputusan pembelian juga termasuk kategori tinggi. Ekuitas merek STIE Indocakti Malang memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap proses keputusan pembelian konsumen.
Faktor–faktor yang berpengaruh terhadap audit delay
Authors: Sucipto Hadi
Published: September 2020

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh ukuran perusahaan, profitabilitas, jenis pendapat auditor, ukuran kantor akuntan publik dan  debt to equity ratio terhadap Audit Delay di dalam perusahaan Sub Sektor Food and Beverages yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian kausal komparatif dengan menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Populasi dan sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah perusahaan sub sektor food and beverages yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia pada tahun 2014–2018. Pengujian dalam penelitian ini menggunakan program SPSS for windows. Penelitian menunjukan hasil bahwa ukuran perusahaan, profitabilitas dan ukuran kantor akuntan publik dan debt to equity ratio tidak berpengaruh terhadap audit delay. Sedangkan jenis pendapat auditor berpengaruh terhadap audit delay.
Drusen Characteristics of Type 2 Macular Neovascularization in Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Ahmed Daniel , Stattin Martin , Haas Anna-Maria , Graf Alexandra , Krepler Katharina , Ansari-Shahrezaei Siamak
Published: September 2020

BackgroundType 2 macular neovascularization (MNV) is supposed to be a rare condition in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The main purpose of this study was to assess accompanying factors of type 2 MNV in AMD.MethodsRetrospective data analysis of eyes previously diagnosed with neovascular AMD in a tertiary eye care center (Medical Retina Unit, Rudolf Foundation Hospital, Vienna, Austria) between June 2008 and December 2017. Drusen subtypes, fibrosis, atrophy and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) of both eyes in patients with type 2 MNV lesions were categorized based on multimodal imaging.ResultsType 2 MNV was diagnosed in 27 (3.2%) of 835 eyes (749 patients). Drusen characteristics in type 2 MNV were observed as followed: drusen < 63 mm in 2 eyes (7.4%), drusen ≥ 63 mm in 10 eyes (37%), subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDD) in 8 eyes (29.6%), cuticular drusen in 2 eye (7.4%) and no drusen were evident in 10 eyes (37%). Drusen distribution in 23 fellow eyes was detected as followed: drusen < 63 mm in 2 eyes (8.7%), drusen ≥ 63 mm in 9 eyes (39.1%), SDD in 5 eyes (21.7%), cuticular drusen in 1 eye (4.3%) and no drusen were evident in 9 eyes (39.1%). Mean SFCT was 140 ± 49 mm in affected eyes and 152 ± 41 mm in the fellow eyes. Patients with drusen or SDD were significantly younger (mean 70.88 ± 6.85, p=0.04) than patients without deposits (mean 77.40 ± 5.74). ConclusionsType 2 MNV remains a rare entity in AMD. It was frequently seen in the absence of drusen, a hallmark of AMD. These findings contribute to the heterogeneity of phenotypes related to pure type 2 lesions.
Mass radical treatment of a group of foreign workers to mitigate the risk of re-establishment of malaria in Sri Lanka
Authors: Marasinghe Manonath M , Karunasena Vissundara M , Senaratne Arundika S , Herath Hema D.B. , Fernando Deepika , Wickremasinghe Rajitha , Mendis Kamini , Ranaweera Dewanee
Published: September 2020

Background Following malaria elimination, Sri Lanka was free from indigenous transmission for six consecutive years, until the first introduced case was reported in December 2018. The source of transmission (index case) was a member of a group of 32 migrant workers from India and the location of transmission was their residence reporting a high prevalence of the primary vector for malaria. Despite extensive vector control the situation was highly susceptible to onward transmission if another of the group developed malaria. Therefore, Mass Radical Treatment (MRT) of the group of workers for Plasmodium vivax malaria was undertaken to mitigate this risk. Method The workers were screened for malaria by microscopy and RDT, their haemoglobin level assessed, and tested for Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) using the Care Start RDT and Brewers test prior to treatment with chloroquine (CQ) 25mg/kg body weight (over three days) and primaquine (PQ) (0.25mg/kg/day bodyweight for 14 days) following informed consent. All were monitored for adverse events. Results None of the foreign workers were parasitaemic at baseline screening and their haemoglobin levels ranged from 9.7 – 14.7 g/dl. All 31 individuals (excluding the index case treated previously) were treated with the recommended dose of CQ. The G6PD test results were inconclusive in 45% of the RDT results and were discrepant between the two tests in 31% of the remaining test events. Seven workers who tested G6PD deficient in either test were excluded from PQ and the rest, 24 workers, received PQ. No serious adverse events occurred. Conclusions Mass treatment may be an option in prevention of reintroduction settings for groups of migrants who are likely to be carrying latent malaria infections, and resident in areas of high receptivity. However, in the case of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale, a more reliable and affordable point-of-care test for G6PD activity would be required. Most countries which are eliminating malaria now are in the tropical zone and face considerable and similar risks of malaria re-introduction due to massive labour migration between them and neighbouring countries. Regional elimination of malaria should be the focus of global strategy if malaria elimination from countries is to be worthwhile and sustainable.
Infection of highly insecticide-resistant malaria vector Anopheles coluzzii with entomopathogenic bacteria Chromobacterium violaceum reduces its survival, blood feeding propensity and fecundity
Authors: Gnambani Edounou Jacques , Bilgo Etienne , Sanou Adama , Dabire Roch K. , Diabate Abdoulaye
Published: September 2020

Background This is now a concern that malaria eradication will not be achieved without the introduction of novel control tools. Microbiological control might be able to make a greater contribution to vector control in the future. The interactions between bacteria and mosquito make mosquito microbiota really promising from a disease control perspective. Here, the impact of Chromobacterium violaceum infections, isolated from both larvae and adult of wild-caught Anopheles gambiae sensu lato mosquitoes in Burkina Faso, was evaluated on mosquito survival, blood feeding and fecundity.Methods To assess entomopathogenic effects of C. violaceum infection on mosquitoes, three different types of bioassays were performed in laboratory. These bioassays aimed to evaluate the impact of C. violaceum infection on mosquito survival, blood feeding and fecundity, respectively. During bioassays mosquitoes were infected through the well-established system of cotton ball soaked with 6% glucose containing C. violaceum.Results Chromobacterium violaceum kills pyrethroid resistant Anopheles coluzzii (LT80 of 8.78 days ± 0.18 at 108 bacteria cell/ml of sugar meal). Interestingly, this bacterium had other negative effects on mosquito lifespan by significantly reducing (~59%, P<0.001) the mosquito feeding willingness from day 4-post infection (~81% would seek a host to blood feed) to 9- day post infection (22 ± 4.62% would seek a host to blood feed). Moreover, C. violaceum considerably jeopardized the egg laying (~16 eggs laid/mosquito with C. violaceum infected mosquitoes vs ~129 eggs laid/mosquito with control mosquitoes) and hatching of mosquitoes (a reduction of ~22 % of hatching rate with C. violaceum infected mosquitoes). Compared to the bacterial uninfected mosquitoes, mosquitoes infected with C. violaceum showed significantly higher retention rates of immature eggs and follicles. Conclusion These data showed important properties of Burkina Faso C. violaceum strains, which are highly virulent against insecticide-resistant An. coluzzii, and reduce both mosquito blood feeding and fecundity propensities. However, additional studies as the sequencing of C. violaceum genome and the potential toxins secreted will provide useful information render it a potential candidate for the biological control strategies of malaria and other disease vectors.
Prevalence and perceived importance of racial matching in the psychotherapeutic dyad: A national survey of addictions treatment clinical practices
Authors: Steinfeldt Jesse A. , Clay Shondra L. , Priester Paul E.
Published: September 2020

Background: Despite conflicting results in the literature concerning its efficacy in practice, racial matching has been identified as a component of culturally sensitive treatment. Methods: This study examined the perceived importance and prevalence of racial matching by surveying a national sample of substance use disorder (SUD) centers from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Results: Using univariate statistical analysis, results for the prevalence of racial matching revealed that in 58% of the clinics, there was the potential to match a counselor with a racially similar client, while in 39% of the clinics, there was no potential to provide such a match. Among the agencies that displayed a potential for racial matching, 26% of the respondents indicated that they never racially matched clients and therapists, 71% reported that they sometimes practice racial matching, 15% indicated that they usually racially match, and only 7% purported to always racially match clients and therapists. Results for the perceived importance of racial matching revealed that in both situations where treatment centers had the potential for racial matching and did not have the potential for racial matching, supervisors reported that it was relatively important to provide culturally sensitive treatment but that it was not as important to match clients in SUD centers with racially/ethnically similar counselors. Conclusion: The topic of racial matching can be very complex and has shown variation amongst SUD centers; however, this study emphasizes the importance of providing culturally sensitive treatment and an appreciation of differences among members within each racial group.
Reaching the unreached: Effectiveness and Satisfaction with Community-Directed Distribution of Suphadoxine-Pyrimethamine for preventing Malaria in Pregnancy in rural South-East, Nigeria
Authors: Okedo-Alex Ijeoma Nkem , Akamike Ifeyinwa Chizoba , Alo Chihurumnanya , Agu Adaoha Pearl , Nzeh Chinyere Benedicta , Chinwendu Ndukwe Daniel , Okoro Odii Ogonna , Abateneh Dejene Derseh , Uneke Chigozie Jesse
Published: September 2020

Background: Innovative community strategies to increase Intermittent Preventive Treatment with Suphadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) coverage is advocated particularly in rural areas, where health infrastructure is weakest and malaria transmission highest. This study involved proof-of-concept implementation research to determine satisfaction with and effectiveness of community-directed distribution of IPTp-SP on uptake among pregnant women in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Methods: This before-and-after study was carried out in 2019 in a rural community in Ebonyi State Nigeria. The intervention involved advocacy visits, community-wide sensitisations on malaria prevention, house to house directly observed IPTp-SP administration, and follow-up visits by trained community-selected Community Directed Distributors (CDDs). Monthly IPTp-SP coverage was assessed over five months and data analysed using SPSS version 20.Results: During the study, 229 women received the first dose of IPTp while 60 pregnant women received 5 or more doses of IPTp. The uptake of ≥3 IPTp doses increased from 31.4% before the community-directed distribution of IPTp to 71.6% (P<0.001) by the 4th month post-initiation of the community-directed distribution of IPTp. Sleeping under Insecticide Treated Net (ITN) the night before the survey increased from 62.4% to 84.3% (P<0.001) while reporting of fever during pregnancy decreased from 64.9% to 17.0% (P<0.001). Although antenatal clinic utilisation increased in the primary health centre serving the community, traditional birth attendants, and patent medicine vendors in the community remained more patronised. Post-intervention, most mothers rated CDD services well (93.6%), were satisfied (97.6%), and preferred community IPTp administration to facility administration (92.3%).Conclusions: Community-directed distribution of IPTp-SP improved uptake of IPTp-SP and ITN use. Mothers were satisfied with the services. We recommend sustained large-scale implementation of community-directed distribution of IPTp with active community engagement.
Improvement of therapeutic capacity of insulin-producing cells trans-differentiated from human liver cells using engineered cell sheet
Authors: Lee Yu Na , Yi Hye-Jin , Seo Eun Hye , Oh Jooyun , Lee Song , Ferber Sarah , Okano Teruo , Shim Inkyong , Kim Song Cheol
Published: September 2020

Background: Although pancreatic islet transplantation therapy is ideal for diabetes patients, several hurdles have prevented it from becoming a standard treatment, including donor shortage and low engraftment efficacy. In this study, we prepared insulin-producing cells trans-differentiated from adult human liver cells as a new islet source. Also, cell sheets formation could improve differentiation efficiency and graft survival.Methods: Liver cells were expanded in vitro and trans-differentiated to IPCs using adenovirus vectors carrying human genes for PDX1, NEUROD1 and MAFA. IPCs were seeded on temperature-responsive culture dishes to form cell sheets. Differentiation efficiency were confirmed by ß cell-specific gene expression, insulin production, and immunohistochemistry. IPCs suspension was injected by portal vein (PV), and IPCs sheet was transplanted on the liver surface of the diabetic nude mouse. The therapeutic effect of IPC sheet was evaluated by comparing blood glucose control, weight gain, histological evaluation and hepatotoxicity with IPCs injection group. Also, cell biodistribution was assessed by in vivo/ex vivo fluorescence image tagging.Results: Insulin gene expression and protein production were significantly increased on IPC sheets compared with those in IPCs cultured on conventional culture dishes. Transplanted IPC sheets displayed significantly higher engraftment efficiency and fewer transplanted cells in other organs than injected IPCs, and also lower liver toxicity, improved blood glucose levels, and weight gain. Immunohistochemical analyses of liver tissue revealed positive staining for PDX1 and insulin at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after IPCs transplantation.Conclusions: In conclusion, cell sheet formation enhanced the differentiation function and maturation of IPCs in vitro. Additionally, parameters for clinical application such as distribution, therapeutic efficacy, and toxicity were favorable. The cell sheet technique may be used with IPCs derived from various cell sources in clinical applications.
Prevalence and Genotype Distribution of Genital Human Papillomavirus Infection in Female Sex Workers in the World: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Farahmand Mohammad , Moghoofei Mohsen , Dorost Abolfazl , Abbasi Saeedeh , Monavari Seyed Hamidreza , Kiani Seyed Jalal , Tavakoli Ahmad
Published: September 2020

Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) are amongst the most susceptible groups to acquire human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and consequently, to develop cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical cancer. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to provide estimates of the pooled prevalence of HPV infection and the distribution of HPV types among FSWs across the world. Methods: Five computerized databases were searched for relevant studies published since the inception date of databases to September 2019. The pooled HPV prevalence was calculated by the random effect model described by DerSimonian-Laird. Subgroup analysis was performed to identify the probable sources of heterogeneity. The meta-analysis was performed using the “Metaprop” function in the R package Meta. Results: Sixty-two studies involving 21402 FSWs from 33 countries were included in this meta-analysis, and the pooled HPV prevalence was 42.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): 38.5%-46.7%). HPV-16 (10.1%, 95% CI: 8.2%–12.5%), HPV-52 (7.9%, 95% CI: 5.9%–10.7%), and HPV-53 (6.0%, 95% CI: 4.4%–8.1%) were the most common high-risk HPV types identified among FSWs. The pooled estimated prevalence of HPV infection among FSWs before and after 2010 were slightly different, 43.6% (95% CI: 36.1%-51.4%) and 41.9% (95% CI: 37.2%-46.8%), respectively. Conclusion: Due to the high prevalence of HPV infection, particularly with high-risk types, FSWs have a great susceptibility to the development of cervical and vaginal cancers. Furthermore, they can transmit their infection to their clients, which may result in a high prevalence of HPV and the incidence of HPV-associated malignancies among the general population.
Professionals’ perceptions of the establishment of a specialized brief therapy unit in a district psychiatric centre - a qualitative study.
Authors: Markussen Hilde Våbenø , Aasdahl Lene , Rise Marit By
Published: September 2020

Background: Increasing mental health problems and scarce treatment resources put pressure on mental health services to make innovations in service provision, such as developing differentiated services adapted to different needs. One innovation in differentiated service provision is brief or short-term treatment to patients with moderate mental health problems. Implementing a new unit in an organization usually faces many potential barriers and facilitators, and knowledge on how the professionals providing the services perceive the implementation of innovative approaches in mental health services is scarce. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the professionals’ perceptions of how the establishment of a specialized brief therapy unit had affected the organization, especially the everyday work in the outpatient clinics.Methods: Eleven professionals, five men and six women, took part in individual interviews. All participants were between 40 and 60 years old and had leading or coordinating positions in the organization. Their professional backgrounds were within psychology, nursing and medicine, most of them specialists in their field. Data was analyzed according to Systematic text condensationResults: The professionals’ experiences represented four main themes: (1) The brief therapy unit was perceived as successful and celebrated. (2) The general outpatient clinics, on the other hand, were described as “forgotten”. (3) The establishment process had elucidated different views on treatment in the outpatient clinics - and had set off (4) a discussion regarding the criteria for prioritizing in mental health services. Conclusion: Providing targeted treatment to patients with moderate mental health problems, while having a concurrent aim to solve broader problems in mental health services, entails a discussion regarding resource use and the appropriate level of treatment provision. Professionals should be more involved when innovative efforts are implemented, and the criteria for success must be conceptualized and evaluated. Longitudinal research on the implementation of innovative efforts in the services should include the professionals’ and the service user’s perspectives.
Deceased donor kidney allocation: an economic evaluation of contemporary longevity matching practices
Authors: Senanayake Sameera , Graves Nicholas , Healy Helen , Baboolal Keshwar , Barnett Adrian , Sypek Matthew P. , Kularatna Sanjeewa
Published: September 2020

BackgroundMatching survival of a donor kidney with that of the recipient (longevity matching), is used in some kidney allocation systems to maximize graft-life years. It is not part of the allocation algorithm for Australia. Given the growing evidence of survival benefit due to longevity matching based allocation algorithms, development of a similar kidney allocation system for Australia is currently underway. The aim of this research is to estimate the impact that changes to costs and health outcomes arising from ‘longevity matching’ on the Australian healthcare system. MethodsA decision analytic model to estimate cost-effectiveness was developed using a Markov process. Four plausible competing allocation options were compared to the current kidney allocation practice. Models were simulated in one-year cycles for a 20-year time horizon, with transitions through distinct health states relevant to the kidney recipient. Willingness to pay was considered as AUD 28000. ResultsBase case analysis indicated that allocating the worst 20% of Kidney Donor Risk Index (KDRI) donor kidneys to the worst 20% of estimated post-transplant survival (EPTS) recipients (option 2) and allocating the oldest 25% of donor kidneys to the oldest 25% of recipients are both cost saving and more effective compared to the current Australian allocation practice. Option 2, returned the lowest costs, greatest health benefits and largest gain to net monetary benefits (NMB). Allocating the best 20% of KDRI donor kidneys to the best 20% of EPTS recipients had the lowest expected incremental NMB. ConclusionOf the four longevity-based kidney allocation practices considered, transplanting the lowest quality kidneys to the worst kidney recipients (option 2), was estimated to return the best value for money for the Australian health system.
Depression and Experience of Incarceration in North Central Nigeria: A Situation Analysis at Makurdi Medium Security Prison
Authors: NWEFOH EMEKA , aguocha chinyere MIRIAN , RYAN GRACE , ODE PHILIP , Ighagbon FESTUS , Akinjola OYEDELE , OMOI SAMUEL , ABDULMALIK JIBRIL , AGBIR TERKURA , OBEKPA OBEKPA , OGBOLE SAMUEL , EATON JULIAN
Published: September 2020

Background: Human rights watchdogs have described conditions in Nigerian correctional facilities and detention centers as damaging to the physical and mental health of inmates. While the prevalence of mental disorders is high, access to appropriate healthcare is grossly inadequate. Understanding the current state of prison inmates’ mental health and well-being is an essential first step to addressing this important issue. This study aims to document the mental health and experiences of incarceration of inmates of the largest medium security prison in Nigeria’s Benue State. Methods: A cross-sectional survey and descriptive analysis was carried out with a random sample of 381 prison inmates of Benue State Makurdi Medium Security Prison. Survey tools included: (1) a structured questionnaire on participants’ experiences in prison, and (2) the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), a screening tool for depression. Results: Most participants were young men (95.5%, mean age 27.95) and had completed secondary school (63.5%). While prison authorities had identified only 27 participants as having a mental disorder, 144 (37.8%) screened positive for depression. Twenty six had received professional counseling while in prison. Of the six participants who were already taking a psychotropic medication at the time of imprisonment, four received medication after being imprisoned. Approximately half, (52%) of participants were dissatisfied with prison health care. Conclusions: Despite the high prevalence of depression among prison inmates, few cases are detected and treated. Prison staff may not recognize depression as a mental disorder, and the mental health care available is generally poor. Inadequate mental health and social care not only affects prison inmates’ well-being, but may also impact recidivism and health outcomes upon release. Prison inmates should be screened routinely for depression and other less-commonly recognized mental health conditions, and appropriate treatment made available.
Efficacy of Tong-Xie-Yao-Fang granule and its impact on whole transcriptome profiling in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Yan , Huang Yong-quan , Zhu Shui-lian , Zhang Chang-rong , Chen Xin-lin , Hou Qiu-ke , Liu Fengbin
Published: September 2020

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one kind of common functional bowel disease with obscure pathogenesis and exploration about whole transcriptome profiling in IBS-D is still negligible. Conventional medications have limited effects, which makes focus shifted to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Tong-Xie-Yao-Fang, as a classic herbal formula in TCM, is pretty effective and safe for the treatment of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), but the underlying therapeutic mechanism remains unknown. We aim to verify the efficacy and safety of TXYF granule (the formula particles mixed together) in IBS-D and elucidate the gene-level mechanism of IBS-D and therapeutic targets of TXYF granule based on whole transcriptome analysis. Methods/design: This is a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial consisting of 2 weeks run-in period, 12 weeks treatment period and 8 weeks follow-up period. We will enroll 120 participants with IBS-D, who will be randomly assigned to TXYF granule group and the placebo group and recruit additional 10 healthy individuals as controls for mechanistic outcome. The two groups respectively take TXYF granule or placebo orally for treatment. The primary outcome is the response rate of IBS-Symptom Severity Score (IBS-SSS). The secondary outcomes include adequate relief (AR), IBS-Quality of Life Questionnaire (IBS-QOL) and long-term efficacy. Mechanistic outcome is the whole transcriptome profiling of the intestinal mucosae from IBS participants before and after the treatment and healthy individuals. Discussion: This trial will prove the effectiveness and safety of TXYF granule with high-quality evidence and provide a penetrating and comprehensive perspective on the molecular mechanism of IBS-D by whole transcriptome analysis, which makes us pinpoint specific biomarkers of IBS-D and therapeutic targets of TXYF.
Malaria parasites in macaques in Thailand: Stump-tailed macaques (Macaca arctoides) are new natural hosts for Plasmodium knowlesi, P. inui, P. coatneyi and P. fieldi.
Authors: Fungfuang Wirasak , Udom Chanya , Tongthainan Daraka , Kadir Khamisah Abdul , Singh Balbir
Published: September 2020

Background: Certain species of macaques are natural hosts of Plasmodium knowlesi and P. cynomolgi, which can both cause malaria in humans, and P. inui, which can be experimentally transmitted to humans. A significant number of zoonotic malaria cases have been reported in humans throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand. There have been only two studies undertaken in Thailand to identify malaria parasites in non-human primates in 6 provinces. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of P. knowlesi, P. coatneyi, P. cynomolgi, P. inui and P. fieldi in non-human primates from 4 new locations in Thailand. Methods: A total of 93 blood samples from Macaca fascicularis, M. leonina and M. arctoides were collected from four locations in Thailand: 32 were captive M. fascicularis from Chachoengsao Province (CHA), 4 were wild M. fascicularis from Ranong Province (RAN), 32 were wild M. arctoides from Prachuap Kiri Khan Province (PRA), and 25 were wild M. leonina from Nakornratchasima Province (NAK). DNA was extracted from these samples and analysed by nested PCR assays to detect Plasmodium, and subsequently to detect P. knowlesi, P. coatneyi, P. cynomolgi, P. inui and P. fieldi.Results: Twenty-seven of the 93 (29%) samples were Plasmodium-positive by nested PCR assays. Among wild macaques, all 4 M. fascicularis at RAN were infected with malaria parasites followed by 50% of 32 M. arctoides at PRA and 20% of 25 M. leonina at NAK. Only 2 (6.3%) of the 32 captive M. fascicularis at CHA were malaria-positive. All 5 species of Plasmodium were detected and 16 (59.3%) of the 27 macaques had single infections, 9 had double and 2 had triple infections. The composition of Plasmodium species in macaques at each sampling site was different. Macaca arctoides from PRA were infected with P. knowlesi, P. coatneyi, P. cynomolgi, P. inui and P. fieldi. Conclusions: The prevalence and species of Plasmodium varied among the wild and captive macaques, and between macaques at 4 sampling sites in Thailand. Macaca arctoides is a new natural host for P. knowlesi, P. inui, P. coatneyi and P. fieldi.
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes among armed forces personnel: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fathalipour Mohammad , Taghdir Maryam , Hassanipour Soheil , Sepandi Mojtaba , Abbaszadeh Sepideh
Published: September 2020

Background: Previous studies of diabetes among armed forces personnel did not assess a comprehensive disease prevalence. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes among the military personnel and police officers. Methods: We carried out a systematic search on electronic databases from January 2000 to July 2020. All studies with a report of the prevalence of diabetes and/or prediabetes among armed forces personnel were selected. However, studies with inappropriate population, estimation of incidence, and non-English language were excluded. The Cochran test and I2 statistics were used to determine the heterogeneity of the studies. Random- or fixed-effects model, along with subgroup analysis on diabetes or prediabetes as well as the component of armed forces, was carried out to determine the overall prevalence. All analyses were conducted using STATA software. Results: Among 858 citations, 30 studies were entered into the meta-analysis, involving 1879170 individuals. The meta-analysis estimated the prevalence of type 2 diabetes among the military personnel (9.15%; CI: 5.35-12.96) and police officers (9.58%; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 5.98-13.18). The overall prevalence of prediabetes among the military personnel and the police officers were 7.32% (CI: 4.22-10.42) and 6.39% (CI: 4.54-8.23), respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes among armed forces were consistent with global reports among general population. These results will inform policy-makers and healthcare providers to find solutions, and help to take action to reduce diabetes risk factors on a wider scale, particularly among armed forces personnel.
Imbalance of laminar-specific excitatory and inhibitory circuits of the orbitofrontal cortex in autism
Authors: Liu Xuefeng , Bautista Julied , Liu Edward , Zikopoulos Basilis
Published: September 2020

Background: The human orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is involved in assessing the emotional significance of events and stimuli, emotion-based learning, allocation of attentional resources, and social cognition. Little is known about the structure, connectivity and excitatory/inhibitory circuit interactions underlying these diverse functions in human OFC, as well as how the circuit is disrupted in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).Methods: We used post-mortem brain tissue from neurotypical adults and individuals with ASD. We examined the morphology and distribution of myelinated axons across cortical layers in OFC, at the single axon level, as a proxy of excitatory pathways. In the same regions, we also examined the laminar distribution of all neurons and neurochemically- and functionally-distinct inhibitory neurons that express the calcium-binding proteins parvalbumin (PV), calbindin (CB), and calretinin (CR). Results: We found that the density of myelinated axons increased consistently towards layer 6, while the average axon diameter did not change significantly across layers in both groups. However, both the density and diameter of myelinated axons were significantly lower in the ASD group compared with the Control group. The distribution pattern and density of the three major types of inhibitory neurons was comparable between groups, but there was a significant reduction in the density of excitatory neurons across OFC layers in ASD. Limitations: This study is limited by the availability of human post-mortem tissue optimally processed for high-resolution microscopy and immunolabeling, especially from individuals with ASD. Conclusions: The balance between excitation and inhibition in OFC is at the core of its function, assessing and integrating emotional and social cues with internal states and external inputs. Our preliminary results provide evidence for laminar-specific changes in the ratio of excitation/inhibition in OFC of adults with ASD, with an overall weakening and likely disorganization of excitatory signals and a relative strengthening of local inhibition. These changes likely underlie pathology of major OFC communications with limbic or other cortices and the amygdala in individuals with ASD, and may provide the anatomic basis for disrupted transmission of signals for social interactions and emotions in autism.
Predictive equations for evaluation for resting energy expenditure in Brazilian patients with type 2 diabetes: What can we use?
Authors: Grassi Thaiciane , Boeno Francesco Pinto , de Freitas Mauren Minuzzo , de Paula Tatiana Pedroso , Viana Luciana Vercoza , de Oliveira Alvaro Reischak , Steemburgo Thais
Published: September 2020

Background: Evaluation of the resting energy expenditure (REE) is essential to ensure an appropriate dietary prescription for patients with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this record was to evaluate the accuracy of predictive equations for REE estimation in patients with type 2 diabetes, considering indirect calorimetry (IC) as the reference method.Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in outpatients with type 2 diabetes. Clinical, body composition by electrical bioimpedance and laboratory variables were evaluated. The REE was measured by IC (QUARK RMR, Cosmed, Rome, Italy) and estimated by eleven predictive equations. Data were analyzed using Bland–Altman plots, paired t-tests, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients.Results: 62 patients were evaluated [50% female; mean age 63.1 ± 5.2 years; diabetes duration of 11 (1-36) years, and mean A1C of 7.6 ± 1.2%]. There was a wide variation in the accuracy of REE values predicted by equations when compared to IC REE measurement. In all patients, Ikeda and Mifflin St-Jeor equations were that most underestimated REE. And, the equations that overestimated the REE were proposed by Dietary Reference Intakes and Huang. The most accurate equations were FAO/WHO/UNO in women (-1.8% difference) and Oxford in men (-1.3% difference).Conclusion: In patients with type 2 diabetes, in the absence of IC, FAO/WHO/UNO and Oxford equations provide the best REE prediction in comparison to measured REE for women and men, respectively.
Effectiveness of Companion-Intensive Multi-aspect Weight Management in Chinese Adults with Obesity: A Six-Month Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Jiang Wanzi , Huang Shushu , Ma Shuai , Gong Yingyun , Fu Zhenzhen , Zhou Li , Hu Wen , Mao Guofang , Ma Zhimin , Yang Ling , Tang Guangfeng , Sun Xiaofang , Zhang Ping , Bai Jianling , Chen Lei , Shi Bimin , Ye Xinhua , Zhou Hongwen
Published: September 2020

Background: Obesity is a globally increasing health epidemic requiring early lifestyle intervention. Our main objective was to examine the effectiveness of companion-intensive multi-aspect weight management (CIMWM) in Chinese adults with obesity.Methods: In this 6-month, prospective, open-label, multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial, we recruited 272 obese adults aged 18–50 years with a body mass index (BMI) ≥28.0 kg/m2 and capable of using smartphones. CIMWM (n=136) offered both daily online instructions and monthly face-to-face guidance by physicians, dietitians, and health managers along with the provision of meal replacements in the first 3 months. Traditional multi-aspect weight management (TMWM, n=136) provided monthly face-to-face guidance by the same panel of professionals and the same meal replacements as CIMWM group, but required subjects to complete daily self-monitoring instead of offering daily online instructions. Body composition and metabolic parameters were assessed at baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months by physicians. Primary outcomes were the clinically-significant weight loss and changes in BMI and body composition.Results: Participants in both groups showed significantly reduced BMI, body fat mass (BFM), visceral fat area (VFA), and HOMA-IR (P<0.05). CIMWM was shown to be superior to TMWM in the improvement of clinically-significant weight loss, BMI, total cholesterol (TC), the body composition parameters BFM and the skeletal muscle mass-to-visceral fat area ratio (S/V) (P<0.05). The non-alcoholic fatty liver disease score (NFS) was negatively related to S/V at baseline. After weight management, NFS was lowered among individuals with levels in the highest tertile (P<0.05). Metabolic memory in terms of the continuous reduction of BMI, BFM, and TC was retained up to 6 months in spite of participants transferring to self-monitoring assessment in the final 3 months.Conclusions: The CIMWM strategy in obese Chinese adults is proved to be more effective than TMWM in weight loss, and motivates greater adherence to intervention and lifestyle reprogramming.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800017463, Registered July 31, 2018, retrospectively registry. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=29649
Knowledge, attitudes, anxiety, and preventive behaviors towards COVID-19 among health care providers in Yemen: an online cross-sectional survey
Authors: Alrubaiee Gamil Ghaleb , Al-Qalah Talal Ali Hussein , Al-Aawar Mohammed Sadeg A.
Published: September 2020

Background: The current rapid prevalence of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic over the world is associated with a considerable level of scared, anxiety and panic among the public, in particular, healthcare providers (HCPs) as the most vulnerable group at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. To protect and enhance HCPs' capacity to carry out their duties in responding to COVID-19, healthcare authorities should keep them away from stress and anxiety and improve their knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19 to ensure their compliance to infection control precautions. Therefore, this study aimed to explore knowledge, attitudes, anxiety, and preventive behaviours among Yemeni HCPs towards COVID-19. Methods: A descriptive, web-based-cross-sectional study was conducted among a number of 1231 Yemeni HCPs. The COVID-19 related questionnaire was designed using Google forms. The responses were coded and analysed using the software package (IBMSPSS), version 22.0. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were also used in this study. A p-value of < 0.05 levels with a 95% confidence interval was considered as statistically significant.. The data collection started on 22nd April 2020, at 6 PM and closed on 26th April 2020 at 11 AM. Results: The results indicated that out of 1231 of the HCPs participating in this study, 61.6% were male and 67% were in the age group of 20 to 30 years old with a mean of 29.29±6.75. Most of them (86%) had a bachelor degree or above and had 10 years of working experience or less (88.1%). Besides, although 57.1% of the respondents obtained their information via social and news media and 60.0% had never attended lectures/discussions about COVID-19, the results revealed that the majority of respondents had an adequate level of knowledge, an optimistic attitude, moderate anxiety and high performance in preventive behaviors (69.8%, 85.10%, 51.0& 87.70%, respectively) toward the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Although the Yemeni HCPs exhibited an adequate level of knowledge, an optimistic attitude, moderate anxiety and high performance in preventive behaviours toward the COVID-19 pandemic, the results showed gaps in some themes, particularly in their knowledge and attitude on COVID-19 pandemic which need to be updated or refreshed.
"A loving man has a very huge responsibility": A mixed methods study of Malawian men's knowledge and beliefs about cervical cancer
Authors: Lewis Samuel , Moucheraud Corrina , Schechinger Devon , Mphande Misheck , Banda Ben Allan , Sigauke Hitler , Kawale Paul , Dovel Kathryn , Hoffman Risa M.
Published: September 2020

ABSTRACTBackground: In Malawi, numerous barriers may prevent women from accessing cervical cancer screening services — including social factors such as male partner involvement. We conducted surveys that included open- and closed-ended questions with married Malawian men to evaluate their knowledge and beliefs about cervical cancer. Methods: HIV-positive adult (≥18 years) men (married or in a stable relationship) were recruited from an antiretroviral therapy clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi. Men were asked a series of survey questions to assess their knowledge about cervical cancer, experience with cervical cancer, their female partner’s screening history, and their beliefs about gender norms and household decision-making. Following the survey, participants responded to a set of open-ended interview questions about cervical cancer screening, and men’s role in prevention.Results: 120 men were enrolled with average age 44 years and 55% having completed secondary school or higher education. Despite only moderate knowledge about cervical cancer and screening (average assessment score of 62% correct), all men expressed support of cervical cancer screening, and most (86%) believed they should be involved in their female partner’s decision to be screened. Over half (61%) of men said their female partner had ever previously been screened for cervical cancer, and this was positively correlated with the male respondent having more progressive gender norms around sexual practices. Some men expressed concerns about the screening process, namely the propriety of vaginal exams when performed by male clinicians, and whether the procedure was painful.Conclusions: Male partners in Malawi want to be involved in decisions about cervical cancer screening, but have limited knowledge about screening, and hold rigid beliefs about gender norms that may affect their support for screening. Messaging campaigns addressing men’s concerns may be instrumental in improving women’s adoption of cervical cancer screening services in Malawi and similar settings.
Genome-wide characterization, evolution and expression profiling of UDP-glycosyltransferase family in pomelo (Citrus grandis) fruit
Authors: Wu Boping , Liu Xiaohong , Xu Kai , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2020

Background: Pomelo is one of the three major species of citrus. The fruit accumulates a variety of abundant secondary metabolites that affect the flavor. UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) are involved in the glycosylation of secondary metabolites. Results: In the present study, we performed a genome-wide analysis of pomelo UGT family, a total of 145 UGTs was identified based on the conserved plant secondary product glycosyltransferase (PSPG) motif. These UGT genes were clustered into 16 major groups through phylogenetic analysis of these genes with other plant UGTs (A-P). Pomelo UGTs were distributed unevenly among the chromosomes. At least 10 intron insertion events were observed in these UGT genome sequences, and I-5 was identified to be the highest conserved one. The expression profile analysis of pomelo UGT genes in different fruit tissues during development and ripening was carried out by RNA-seq. Conclusions: We identified 145 UGTs in pomelo fruit through transcriptome data and citrus genome database. Our research provides available information on UGTs studies in pomelo, and provides an important research foundation for screening and identification of functional UGT genes.