bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding User Behavior Through the Use of Unsupervised Anomaly Detection: Proof of Concept Using Internet of Things Smart Home Thermostat Data for Improving Public Health Surveillance
Authors: Jalali Niloofar , Sahu Kirti Sundar , Oetomo Arlene , Morita Plinio Pelegrini
Published: October 2020

Background

One of the main concerns of public health surveillance is to preserve the physical and mental health of older adults while supporting their independence and privacy. On the other hand, to better assist those individuals with essential health care services in the event of an emergency, their regular activities should be monitored. Internet of Things (IoT) sensors may be employed to track the sequence of activities of individuals via ambient sensors, providing real-time insights on daily activity patterns and easy access to the data through the connected ecosystem. Previous surveys to identify the regular activity patterns of older adults were deficient in the limited number of participants, short period of activity tracking, and high reliance on predefined normal activity.

Objective

The objective of this study was to overcome the aforementioned challenges by performing a pilot study to evaluate the utilization of large-scale data from smart home thermostats that collect the motion status of individuals for every 5-minute interval over a long period of time.

Methods

From a large-scale dataset, we selected a group of 30 households who met the inclusion criteria (having at least 8 sensors, being connected to the system for at least 355 days in 2018, and having up to 4 occupants). The indoor activity patterns were captured through motion sensors. We used the unsupervised, time-based, deep neural-network architecture long short-term memory-variational autoencoder to identify the regular activity pattern for each household on 2 time scales: annual and weekday. The results were validated using 2019 records. The area under the curve as well as loss in 2018 were compatible with the 2019 schedule. Daily abnormal behaviors were identified based on deviation from the regular activity model.

Results

The utilization of this approach not only enabled us to identify the regular activity pattern for each household but also provided other insights by assessing sleep behavior using the sleep time and wake-up time. We could also compare the average time individuals spent at home for the different days of the week. From our study sample, there was a significant difference in the time individuals spent indoors during the weekend versus on weekdays.

Conclusions

This approach could enhance individual health monitoring as well as public health surveillance. It provides a potentially nonobtrusive tool to assist public health officials and governments in policy development and emergency personnel in the event of an emergency by measuring indoor behavior while preserving privacy and using existing commercially available thermostat equipment.
Exploring the Role of Media Sources on COVID-19–Related Discrimination Experiences and Concerns Among Asian People in the United States: Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Yu Nan , Pan Shuya , Yang Chia-chen , Tsai Jiun-Yi
Published: October 2020

Background

Media coverage and scholarly research have reported that Asian people who reside in the United States have been the targets of racially motivated incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the types of discrimination and worries experienced by Asians and Asian Americans living in the United States during the pandemic, as well as factors that were associated with everyday discrimination experience and concerns about future discrimination that the Asian community may face.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted. A total of 235 people who identified themselves as Asian or Asian American and resided in the United States completed the questionnaire.

Results

Our study suggested that up to a third of Asians surveyed had experienced some type of discrimination. Pooling the responses “very often,” “often,” and “sometimes,” the percentages for each experienced discrimination type ranged between 14%-34%. In total, 49%-58% of respondents expressed concerns about discrimination in the future. The most frequently experienced discrimination types, as indicated by responses “very often” and “often,” were “people act as if they think you are dangerous” (25/235, 11%) and “being treated with less courtesy or respect” (24/235, 10%). About 14% (32/235) of individuals reported very often, often, or sometimes being threatened or harassed. In addition, social media use was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing discrimination (β=.18, P=.01) and having concerns about future episodes of discrimination the community may face (β=.20, P=.005). Use of print media was also positively associated with experiencing discrimination (β=.31, P<.001).

Conclusions

Our study provided important empirical evidence regarding the various types of discrimination Asians residing in the United States experienced or worried about during the COVID-19 pandemic. The relationship between media sources and the perception of racial biases in this group was also identified. We noted the role of social media in reinforcing the perception of discrimination experience and concerns about future discrimination among Asians during this outbreak. Our results indicate several practical implications for public health agencies. To reduce discrimination against Asians during the pandemic, official sources and public health professionals should be cognizant of the possible impacts of stigmatizing cues in media reports on activating racial biases. Furthermore, Asians or Asian Americans could also be informed that using social media to obtain COVID-19 information is associated with an increase in concerns about future discrimination, and thus they may consider approaching this media source with caution.
Design Features for Improving Mobile Health Intervention User Engagement: Systematic Review and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Wei Yanxia , Zheng Pinpin , Deng Hui , Wang Xihui , Li Xiaomei , Fu Hua
Published: October 2020

Background

Well-designed mobile health (mHealth) interventions support a positive user experience; however, a high rate of disengagement has been reported as a common concern regarding mHealth interventions. To address this issue, it is necessary to summarize the design features that improve user engagement based on research over the past 10 years, during which time the popularity of mHealth interventions has rapidly increased due to the use of smartphones.

Objective

The aim of this review was to answer the question “Which design features improve user engagement with mHealth interventions?” by summarizing published literature with the purpose of guiding the design of future mHealth interventions.

Methods

This review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) checklist. Databases, namely, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Ovid EMBASE, and Ovid PsycINFO, were searched for English and Chinese language papers published from January 2009 to June 2019. Thematic analysis was undertaken to assess the design features in eligible studies. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess study quality.

Results

A total of 35 articles were included. The investigated mHealth interventions were mainly used in unhealthy lifestyle (n=17) and chronic disease (n=10) prevention programs. Mobile phone apps (n=24) were the most common delivery method. Qualitative (n=22) and mixed methods (n=9) designs were widely represented. We identified the following 7 themes that influenced user engagement: personalization (n=29), reinforcement (n=23), communication (n=20), navigation (n=17), credibility (n=16), message presentation (n=16), and interface aesthetics (n=7). A checklist was developed that contained these 7 design features and 29 corresponding specific implementations derived from the studies.

Conclusions

This systematic review and thematic synthesis identified useful design features that make an mHealth intervention more user friendly. We generated a checklist with evidence-based items to enable developers to use our findings easily. Future evaluations should use more robust quantitative approaches to elucidate the relationships between design features and user engagement.
Mobile Phone Apps in Australia for Improving Pregnancy Outcomes: Systematic Search on App Stores
Authors: Musgrave Loretta M , Kizirian Nathalie V , Homer Caroline S E , Gordon Adrienne
Published: October 2020

Background

Women are increasingly turning to mobile health platforms to receive health information and support in pregnancy, yet the content of these platforms vary. Although there is great potential to influence health behaviors, little research has assessed the quality of these platforms or their ability to change behavior. In recent years, validated tools to assess app quality have become available.

Objective

To identify and assess the quality and ongoing popularity of the top 10 freely available pregnancy apps in Australia using validated tools.

Methods

A systematic search on app stores to identify apps was performed. A Google Play search used subject terms pregnancy, parenting, and childbirth; the iTunes search used alternative categories medical and health and fitness. The top 250 apps from each store were cross-referenced, and the top 100 found in both Google Play and iTunes were screened for eligibility. Apps that provided health information or advice for pregnancy were included. Excluded apps focused on nonhealth information (eg, baby names). The top 10 pregnancy apps were assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). A comparative analysis was conducted at 2 time points over 2 years to assess the ongoing popularity of the apps. The MARS score was compared to the download and star rating data collected from iTunes and Google Play in 2017 and 2019. Health behaviors including breastfeeding, healthy pregnancy weight, and maternal awareness of fetal movements were reviewed for apparent impact on the user’s knowledge, attitudes, and behavior change intentions using the MARS perceived impact section and the Coventry, Aberdeen, and London—Refined (CALO-RE) taxonomy.

Results

A total of 2052 free apps were screened for eligibility, 1397 were excluded, and 655 were reviewed and scored. The top 10 apps were selected using download numbers and star ratings. All 10 apps were suboptimal in quality, practicality, and functionality. It was not possible to identify a primary purpose for all apps, and there was overlap in purpose for many. The mean overall MARS app quality score across all 10 apps was 3.01 (range 1.97-4.40) in 2017 and 3.40 (range 2.27-4.44) in 2019. A minority of apps scored well for perceived impact on health behavior using the MARS tool. Using the CALO-RE 40 item taxonomy, the number of behavior change techniques used was low. The mean number of behavior change techniques for breastfeeding was 5 (range 2-11), for pregnancy weight was 4 (range 2-12), and for maternal awareness of fetal movements was 5 (range 2-8).

Conclusions

This review provides valuable information to clinicians and consumers about the quality of apps currently available for pregnancy in Australia. Consideration is needed regarding the regulation of information and the potential opportunity to incorporate behavior change techniques to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.
Weight Management Apps in Saudi Arabia: Evaluation of Features and Quality (Preprint)
Authors: Alshathri Dalal M , Alhumaimeedy Abeer S , Al-Hudhud Ghada , Alsaleh Aseel , Al-Musharaf Sara , Aljuraiban Ghadeer S
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Weight management apps may provide support and management options for individuals with overweight and obesity. Research on the quality of weight management mHealth apps among the Saudi population is insufficient despite frequent use.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to explore user perceptions of weight management apps, explore reasons for starting and stopping app use, appraise the quality of weight management apps available in the App Store, and compare the features currently available within the app market and those that are most desirable to weight management app users.

METHODS

A web-based survey consisted of 31 open and closed questions about sociodemographic information, general health questions, app use, app user perceptions, and discontinuation of app use. The quality of the weight management apps available on the App Store was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale and evidence-based strategies. We also used six sigma evaluations to ensure that the quality measured by the tools consistently meets customer expectations.

RESULTS

Data from the survey were analyzed. Of the respondents, 30.17% (324/1074) had used a weight management app, 18.16% (195/1074) used the apps and stopped, and 51.68% (555/1074) had never used a weight management app. Of apps mentioned, 23 met the inclusion criteria. The overall average Mobile App Rating Scale quality of apps was acceptable; 30% (7/23) received a quality mean score of 4 or higher (out of 5), and 30% (7/23) did not meet the acceptability score of 3 or higher. Evidence-based strategy results showed that feedback was not observed in any of the apps, and motivation strategy was observed in only 1 app. The sigma results of evidence-based strategies reflect that most of the apps fail to pass the mean.

CONCLUSIONS

App users desired a feature that allows them to communicate with a specialist, which is a missing in the available free apps. Despite the large number and accessibility of weight management apps, the quality and features of most are variable. It can be concluded from six sigma results that passing the mean does not ensure that the quality is consistently distributed through all app quality properties and Mobile App Rating Scale and evidence-based strategies do not give developers an indication of the acceptance of their apps by mobile users. This finding stresses the importance of reevaluating the passing criterion, which is ≥50% for designing an effective app.
Physical Distancing Measures and Walking Activity in Middle-aged and Older Residents in Changsha, China, During the COVID-19 Epidemic Period: Longitudinal Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Yilun , Zhang Yuqing , Bennell Kim , White Daniel Kenta , Wei Jie , Wu Ziying , He Hongyi , Liu Shaohui , Luo Xianghang , Hu Shuo , Zeng Chao , Lei Guanghua
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Physical distancing measures taken to contain COVID-19 transmission may substantially reduce physical activity levels and cause individuals to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine if there was any change in daily steps, an important component of daily physical activity, and examine risk factors for frequent low daily steps during the COVID-19 epidemic.

METHODS

We used data collected from the Step Study, a population-based longitudinal study of walking activity among residents aged ≥40 years in Changsha, China. Daily steps were collected via a smartphone linked to WeChat, a social networking platform. We plotted mean daily steps and the prevalence of low daily steps (≤1500 steps/day) 30 days before (reference period) and 30 days after (epidemic period) January 21, 2020 (date of the first COVID-19 case diagnosed in Changsha), and compared it with the same corresponding period from 2019. We examined the association of risk factors with the prevalence of frequent low daily steps (≤1500 steps/day for ≥14 days) using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among 3544 participants (mean age 51.6 years; n=1226 females, 34.6%), mean daily steps dropped from 8097 to 5440 and the prevalence of low daily steps increased from 3% (2287/76,136 person-day) to 18.5% (12,951/70,183 person-day) during the reference and epidemic periods, respectively. No such phenomenon was observed during the corresponding period in 2019. Older age (P for interaction=.001) and female sex (P for interaction<.001) were both associated with a higher prevalence of frequent low daily steps and were more pronounced during the epidemic period. More education was associated with a lower prevalence of frequent low daily steps during the reference period but not the epidemic period (P for interaction=.34). Body mass index or comorbidity were not associated with frequent low daily steps during either period.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily steps of Changsha residents aged ≥40 years dropped significantly during the COVID-19 period, especially among older adults and females. Although successful physical distancing, measured by the rapid downward trend in daily step counts of residents, played a critical role in the containment of the COVID-19 epidemic, our findings of an increase in the prevalence of frequent low daily steps raise concerns about unintended effects on physical activity.
Post Mugabe Era and Feasibility of Regime Change in Zimbabwe
Authors: Rusero Alexander M. , Mvundura Emaculate
Published: October 2020

Barely a year after Zimbabwe’s long serving President Robert Mugabe was ousted through a military coup which replaced him with his erstwhile trusted ally and vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa, the army shot six civilians caught up in the crossfire of protestors alleging ZANU PF electoral theft of the 2018 July 30 polls. Although the military has always been in the background of Zimbabwe’s politics in general and the ruling ZANU PF affairs in particular, the shooting of protestors incident which occurred on the 1st of August 2018 left the world shell-shocked on the prospects of any peaceful change of government or even transfer of power, confirming to all and sundry that Mugabe could have exited the political stage, but the system he presided over for 37 years is still intact, if not even more perfected in the aftermath. This has since rekindled debates on the feasibility of regime change in Zimbabwe and in that context the validity and essence of having an election in the first place if any outcome unfavourable to ZANU PF and its candidate is likely to witness the unleashing of armed soldiers and the subsequent killing of citizens in the process. With the security sector involved in politics in contrast to the old adage that politics lead the gun, it thus comes as a paradox that for the umpteenth time, regime change in Zimbabwe shall remain an elusive dream.
PENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN MENULIS EKSPOSISI MENGGUNAKAN MODEL PICTURE AND PICTURE SISWA SMP
Authors: Friska Lumban Gaol Fefi , Telaumbanua Sadieli , Siburian Panigoran
Published: October 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan meningkatkan kemampuan menulis eksposisi siswa kelas VIII-A SMP Imelda Medan dengan menggunakan model pembelajaran picture and picture. Keberhasilan penelitian ini dilihat dari tiga kriteria, 1) Kemampuan menulis eksposisi siswa sebelum menggunakan model picture and picture belum berhasil. Hal ini dilihat dari jumlah skor rata-rata yang diperoleh siswa 53 dan KKK siswa yang tuntas 12% dan tidak tuntas 88% . 2) Penggunaan model picture and picture setelah diberi tindakan pada siklus I belum mampu meningkatkan kualitas pembelajaran menulis eksposisi siswa. Hal ini ditunjukkan dari jumlah skor rata-rata yang diperoleh siswa 71 dan KKK siswa yang tuntas 70% dan tidak tuntas 30% . 3) Penggunaan model picture and picture setelah diberi tindakan pada siklus II dapat meningkatkan hasil kemampuan menulis eksposisi siswa. Hal ini dapat terlihat pada perolehan jumlah skor rata-rata 80 dan KKK siswa yang tuntas 91% dan tidak tuntas 9%. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan model picture and picture berhasil, mampu meningkatkan kemampuan menulis eksposisi siswa kelas VIII-A SMP Imelda Medan.
PENANAMAN NILAI-NILAI PENDIDIKAN KARAKTER DI SMP MUHAMMDIYAH 22 PAMULANG, TANGERANG SELATAN
Authors: Safi’i Imam , Tarmini Wini
Published: October 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperoleh data secara komprehensif tentang model penanaman nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter di salah satu satuan sekolah menengah pertama (SMP) swasta yang ada di di Kota Tangerang Selatan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan menerapkan metode etnografi. Berdasarkan penelitian yang telah dilakukan, dapat diketahui bahwa nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter yang ditanamkan mencakup empat aspek karakter, yaitu olah hati, olah pikir, olah raga/kinestetik, dan olah karsa. Pengitegrasian nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter secara eksplisit dilakukan melalui nasihat yang disampaikan secara langsung pada siswa saat mengikuti kegiatan sekolah, seperti upacara bendera, upacara peringatan hari-hari besar nasional, kegiatan perkemahan, outboand, kerja kakti, bakti sosial, dan salat berjamaah, serta berbagai nasihat lainnya yang diberikan pada saat kegiatan pembelajaran berlangsung. Penanaman nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter secara implisit dilakukan melalui proses penghayatan yang dintegrasikan ke dalam berbagai kegiatan yang dilangsungkan sekolah, baik berkaitan dengan proses pembelajaran maupun di luar pembelajaran. Penanaman nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter mengalir secara wajar dan alami karena siswa tidak merasa dinasihati atau digurui. Hasil penelitian ini dapat dimanfaatkan sebagai salah satu model dalam penanaman nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter di Sekolah Menengah Pertama agar berlangsung lebih efektif dan efesien.
ANALISIS BAHASA PADA FEATURE DALAM SURAT KABAR JAWA POS.COM
Authors: Shofiyatin Hayyin , Mulyaningsih Indrya , Itaristanti
Published: October 2020

Penelitian bertujuan untuk menemukan karakteristik bahasa yang digunakan feature pada surat kabar Jawa Pos.com dengan menganalisis gaya bahasa dan pola penulisan. Penelitian dilakukan karena terdapat perbedaan antara teori dan bukti di lapangan, yakni penulisan feature oleh Jawa Pos.com tidak sama dengan teori. Analisis pada feature ini menggunakan metode analisis bahasa jenis padan. Penelitian termasuk ke dalam jenis kualitatif deskriptif, yakni menjelaskan suatu fenomena dalam bentuk deskripsi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan feature pada surat kabar Jawa Pos.com memiliki karakteristik yang berbeda dari teori yang telah ada. Seperti dapat dilihat pada struktur yang membentuk pola tidak sama dengan teori. Yakni, karakteristik masing-masing struktur tidak terpenuhi. Hal ini secara ilmiah tidak menjadi masalah, karena hakikatnya sebuah karangan tidak dibatasi bahkan lebih baik menggunakan imajinasi yang luas.
ANALISIS PELANGARAN MAKSIM KESOPANAN DALAM RAPAT KARANG TARUNA DESA SONOHARJO KECAMATAN WONOGIRI
Authors: Saputra Dika
Published: October 2020

Penelitian yang berjudul “Analisis Pelanggaran Maksim Kesopanan dalam Rapat Karang Taruna Desa Sonoharjo Kecamatan Wonogiri” ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan bentuk pelanggaran maksim kesopanan pada rapat Karang Taruna di Desa Sonoharjo Kecamatan Wonogiri. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif kualitatif, yaitu dengan tahapan simak catat menggunakan alat perekam. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa dalam rapat karang taruna diketahui dalam teori pragmatik pada maksim penghargaan, maksim kecocokan, maksim kerendahan hati, maksim kebijaksanaan, dan maksim simpati yang sering digunakan adalah maksim penghargaan.
Peran Sastra Lisan Dalam Pengenalan Budaya Bangsa Indonesia
Authors: Idawati  , Verlinda Desnia
Published: October 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan memperoleh deskripsi utuh tentang manfaat sastra lisan dalam pengenalan budaya bangsa Indonesia. Dengan demikian, peran sastra lisan dalam pengenalan budaya bangsa Indonesia menjadi judul dalam penelitian ini. Penelitian inipun memiliki masalah dalam bagaimanakah peran sastra dalam pengenalan budaya bangsa Indonesia. Teori strukturalisme sastra dimanfaatkan dalam melakukan kajian ini. Penelitian kualitatif dengan metode penelitian deskriptif analisis ini dilakukan. Analisis data menunjuk adanya manfaat sastra lisan ini dalam penguatan pengenalan budaya bangsa Indonesia. Terlihat dari keempat aspek karya sastra yang memiliki kesamaan, yaitu pertama kesamaan motif cerita, kedua struktur cerita, ketiga tokoh cerita dan keempat tema cerita. Motif cerita dapat diambil sampel dari sastra lisan “Batu Betangkup” dan “Batu Menangis” dimana kedua cerita ini sama-sama mengandung tentang biogenetis. Melalui struktur cerita dari sastra lisan “Batu Betangkup” dan “Batu Menangis” yang menceritakan tentang anak yang durhaka kepada orang tua. Dengan adanya kesamaan motif, struktur, toko dan tema cerita menjadikan satu di antara wadah pemersatu bingkai kebhinekaan dalam kebahasaan bangsa Indonesia
Tindak Tutur Ilokusi Pada Iklan Fair and Lovely di Televisi
Authors: Sikana Arina Mana , Linda Fadillah Rahmadani
Published: October 2020

Iklan merupakan salah satu inovasi yang dilakukan produsen dalam memasarkan suatu produk atau jasa yang ada. Salah satu karakteristik dari bahasa iklan ialah persuasif. Adanya bahasa iklan yang persuasif dan mampu menarik konsumen terhadap produk atau jasa yang dipasarkan tidak luput dari peran tindak tutur yang digunakan oleh produsen. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bentuk tindak tutur ilokusi yang ada pada iklan produk kecantikan Fair and Lovely. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kualitatif berupa tuturan kata dan kalimat pada iklan Fair and Lovely dengan menggunakan teknik  rekam, simak, dan catat. Penggunaan analisis dalam penelitian ini adalah analisis interaktif. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan terdapat lima wujud tindak tutur ilokusi pada iklan produk kecantikan Fair and Lovely, yaitu tindak tutur ilokusi asertif sejumlah tiga data, tindak tutur ilokusi direktif terdapat empat data, tindak tutur ilokusi komisif terdiri empat data, tindak tutur ilokusi ekspresif terdapat satu data, dan tindak tutur ilokusi deklaratif sejumlah satu data.
Review on Antityrosinase Activity of Some Indian Medicinal Plants and their Phytoconstituents
Authors: Gupta Ruchi , Saxena Rajiv , Patidar Archana , Chourasiya Yashu , Malviya Neelesh
Published: October 2020

Tyrosinase (polyphenolic oxidase) is a multifunctional and copper containing enzyme. Tyrosinase is an enzyme which is responsible for melanin biosynthesis which is responsible for color of the skin. Melanin is synthesised in melanocyte cells by melanogenesis process.  Melanogenesis protects skin surface from harmful ultraviolet radiations. Melanin is mainly synthesized in plants, micro organisms and mammalian cells. Melanin pigment is responsible for hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. When melanin is present in very less amount it causes local vitiligo and posttraumatic hypopigmentation. When melanin is present in very less amount it causes local vitiligo and posttraumatic hypopigmentation. Abnormal amount of melanin deposit in the specific sites of skin causes abnormal skin colored patches like solar lentigos, chloasma, freckles, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation etc. Tyrosinase is also responsible for color changes in fruits due to enzymatic reactions. Tyrosinase inhibitor compounds are used in cosmetics, food, agriculture science and also used in remedy for imbalance in pigmentations. Some Indian herbal plants and agents like Aloe barbedensis, Crocus sativus, Curcuma longa, Camellia sinensis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycine max, Nelumbo nucifera, Hemidesmus indicus, Vitis Vinifera, Broussonetia papyrifera, resorcinol, arbutin, kojic acid, hydroquinone and ascorbic acid have antityrosinase enzymatic activity. So these plants and inhibitory agents are used in cosmetic industries due to their tyrosinase inhibitory effects or antityrosinase activity or antihyperpigmentation effects.

Keywords: Anti-hyperpimentation, Tyrosinase Inhibitor, Melanin, Herbal drugs.
Acute and Subacute Oral Toxicity Studies and Anti-Sickling Activity Assessment of FACA® Syrup
Authors: OUEDRAOGO Geoffroy Gueswindé , ILBOUDO Sylvain , OUEDRAOGO Salfo , OUEDRAOGO Jean Claude Romaric Pingdwendé , SOMDA Gaëtan Donzéo , TRAORE Sidiki , BELEMNABA Lazare , OUEDRAOGO Noufou , KINI Félix Bondo , LOMPO Marius , GUISSOU Innocent Pierre , OUEDRAOGO Sylvin
Published: October 2020

Sickle cell disease remains a major public health problem in Burkina Faso and Africa. For the management of this pathology in young children, the Institute for Research in Health Sciences has developed an herbal drug called FACA® syrup. The objective of this study was to verify the safety and pharmacological efficacy of this formulation for its use in the management of sickle cell disease. Acute and subacute oral toxicity tests were performed on Wistar rats in accordance with Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development test guidelines and anti-sickling activity of FACA® syrup was evaluated according to the Emmel test. In the acute test, FACA® syrup didn’t cause mortality or any behavioral change at dose of 2000 mg/kg/b.w suggesting that the test product estimated LD50 is 5000 mg/kg b.w. The results of subacute toxicity study indicate that the daily administration of FACA® syrup during 28 days did not result in significant change on physical, haematological and biochemical parameters up to dose of 1000 mg/kg b.w. The evaluation of effect of FACA® syrup in vitro on sickling revealed that, FACA® syrup possesses a real antisickling activity. Regarding these results FACA® syrup would be considered as safe in both acute and subacute exposure and could be used in the management of sickle cell diseases.
Keywords: FACA® syrup, oral toxicity, sickle cell anemia, Antisickling activity
Method Development and Validation for Multicomponent Analysis of Rosuvastatin Calcium and Losartan Potassium in Bulk Drug by RP-HPLC
Authors: Kumar Pramod , Ankalgi Amar Deep , Kaushal Pooja , Ashawat Mahendra Singh
Published: October 2020

A simple, sensitive and specific liquid chromatographic method was developed for the simultaneous estimation of Rosuvastatin calcium and Losartan potassium in bulk form. Chromatographic conditions included the  Column C-18 (Shim-pack) 250 x 4.6 mm, particle size 5 µm , mobile phase acetonitrile,  methanol and water pH 3 (orthophosphoric acid) in the ratio 20:25:55 recorded  at 233 nm. The retention time were found to be   3.55 and 4.64 min and average percentage recovery 99.42% and 99.63% for Rosuvastatin calcium and Losartan potassium respectively. The proposed method was found to comply with ICH guidelines.

Keyword: Rosuvastatin calcium, Losartan potassium, RP-HPLC, accuracy and linearity.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Etiology, Treatment and Animal Models
Authors: Chaudhary Archana , Vinay Pandit
Published: October 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain and damage throughout your body. About 75% of Rheumatoid arthritis patients are women. In fact, 1 – 3% of women may get rheumatoid arthritis in their lifetime. The disease most often begins between the ages of 30 and 50. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround your joints. The resulting inflammation thickens the synovium, which can eventually destroy the cartilage and bone within the joint. The tendons and ligaments that hold the joint together weaken and stretch. Gradually, the joint loses its shape and alignment. It also affects other organs of body like: skin, eyes, heart, kidneys, and lungs.  The main risk factors that cause Rheumatoid arthritis are Age, Gender, Genetics, weight, smoking, diet, etc. Three main ways to treat rheumatoid arthritis are Drugs, physical therapies and surgery. There are four main groups of drugs that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs  and steroids (also known as corticosteroids). Collagen induced arthritis and Adjuvant arthritis are the most commonly used standard animal models in Rheumatoid arthritis.  This literature review assessed the sign & symptoms, risk factors, etiology, treatment and standard animal models for Rheumatoid arthritis.

Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis, Inflammation, Antirheumatic drugs, Adjuvants, Rat, Mice.
Comparative Antimicrobial Activities of Alchornea cordifolia Leaf Crude Extracts and Cephalosporin Antibiotics on Some Pathogenic Clinical Isolates
Authors: Agboke A. A. , Nwosu C. N. , Obindo D. O. , Ekanem M. H. , Edet E. V. , Ubak I. F.
Published: October 2020

Comparative antimicrobial activities of the aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts of Alchornea cordifolia and some Cephalosporin antibiotics of different generations available in Uy, LGA of Akwa Ibom state of Nigeria were evaluated using macro dilution assay to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of the plant aqueouse and ethanol leaf extracts and of the Cephalosporin antibiotics against some pathogenic Gram positive and Gram negative organisms. Results: The extraction yielded 59.9g for aqueouse leaf extract (ALE) and 74.10 g of the ethanol leaf extract. The MIC of the leaf extracts ranging from (1.953 mg/mL - 15.625 mg/ mL) and MBC ranging from (3.906 mg/mL – 62.50 mg/mL). The cephalosporin antibiotics; Ceftriaxone (Chupet®) MIC ranging from (0.0078-0.25 mg/mL), MBC (0.0312 mg/mL – 0.25 mg/mL), Cephalexin (Sporidex®) MIC ranging from (0.009766 mg/ mL - 0.625 mg/ mL), MBC (0.01953 mg/ mL -2.50 mg/ mL) and Cefuroxime with MIC ranging from (0.0078 mg/mL-0.25 mg/mL) and MBC (1.25 mg/mL - 2.5 mg/mL). Antimicrobial substances are considered as bactericidal agent when the ratio MBC/MIC ≤ 4 and bacteriostatic when the ratio MBC/MIC is > 4. The antimicrobial activities evaluated increased in the following order of potency; A. cordifolia leaf extracts > Ceftriaxone > Cefalexin > Cefuroxime considering the values of MBC/MIC. Keywords: Antimicrobial activities, bacteriostatic, bactericidal, cephalosporin, comparative.
Formulation and Evaluation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles of Olanzapine for the Treatment of Psychosis
Authors: Daswadkar Shubhangi C. , Atole Abhijit Vasant
Published: October 2020

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) are typically spherical with an average diameter between 1 nm to 1000 nm in range. It is alternative carrier systems to tradition colloidal carriers, such as liposomes emulsions and polymeric micro and nanoparticles. Olanzapine (OZP) is an atypical antipsychotic agent which is used for treatment of Schizophrenia. Its oral bioavailability is around of 40%. OZP is a class II drug so it having low aqueous solubility. To overcome that problem and to increase its bioavailability, the solid lipid nanoparticles of olanzapine are prepared. Formulation batches designed by modifying type of surfactant ( Span 80, Tween 80), concentration of surfactant, Concentration of co-surfactant, type of lipid ( glyceryl monostearate, Stearic acid), Lipid concentration, speed of stirring and time of stirring using customised design  of DOE. The SLN were prepared by high speed homogenization technique, and then characterized by particle size analysis, Drug entrapment efficiency and Drug diffusion study. A formulation containing GMS as a lipid stabilised with tween 80 as surfactant show good drug release, smaller particle size, as compared with other formulations with different lipid and surfactant. The present research findings indicate that OZP loaded solid lipid Nano particulate system for delivery of OZP with better efficacy with minimum adverse effects. Keywords: Olanzapine, SLN, GMS, high speed homogenization and DOE.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Microbial Potential of Plumbago zeylanica L.: A Review
Authors: Aleem Mohd
Published: October 2020

Plumbago zeylanica L. (Pz) is one of the most important medicinal plant belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae. It is a perennial shrub, growing throughout India and most places of Sri Lanka. It contains various bioactive compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, naphthoquinones, glycoside, saponins, steroids, tri-terpenoids, coumarins, phenolic compounds etc. Of all the chemical constituents, plumbagin is the principal active compound. Plumbagin (5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1, 4-naphthoquinone-C11H8O3) is primarily present in roots in higher amounts with only about 1% in the whole plant. The literature reveals that the root and root bark have a wider claim in traditional medicines against various diseases as a memory enhancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, wound healing, anti-malarial, anti-infertility, anticancer, blood coagulation, and anti-oxidant activities. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of this plant.

Keyword: Plumbago zeylanica; Sheetraj; Chitrak; Anti-inflammatory; Antimicrobial; Traditional uses
A Review of an Ayurvedic Polyherbal Formulation Mustadi Kwatha
Authors: Khanal Hari , Joshi Ram Kishor , Upadhyay Abhishek
Published: October 2020

Mustadi Kwatha is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation. It is a widely prescribed drug and is used in all types of Prameha (Diabetes mellitus), Mutrakrichha (Urinary System related disease) and Santarpanjanya Vyadhi (disease due to over nutrition). Several studies have suggested that Mustadi Kwatha possesses anti-hyperlipidemic, anti- hyperglycemic and anti-oxidant activity. The present review explains the pharmacological potential of Mustadi Kwatha. In addition, this study investigates the pharmacological activities of each of the ingredients used in the formulation. It is believed that this review helps the researcher to further explore about this important Ayurvedic formulation.

Keywords: Mustadi Kwatha, Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperlipidemia, Obesity, Ayurvedic Polyherbal Formulation.
Hepatotoxicity Induced by Anti-Tubercular Drugs Therapy: A Case Report
Authors: Bangwal Rohit , Hussain Mashud Mohd. Essar , Saklani Saurabh , Mathur Prashant , Joshi Yogesh
Published: October 2020

Anti-tubercular therapy induced liver injury (ATTILI) is the most important risk for the past many years. Many pre-existing factors and conditions like persisting liver injury, female gender, alcohol abuse etc. are important risk factors for the ATT induce liver injury. I read many case reports and literature review for the drugs induce liver injury, and concluded the results, ATT drugs are the most responsible for the liver injury during the therapy periods. The present case was 42-year-old male patient and known case of pulmonary tuberculosis, patients were on the ATT drugs therapy in the last 14 days. After few days of therapy, he produced signs of vomiting (multiple episode), fever (high grade), abdomen pain, coughing, loss of appetite, epigastric discomforts & generalized weakness. On general examination the patient was found to produce signs of Jaundice with yellowish appearance of the sclera. Pulmonologist had firstly withdrawal the anti-tubercular drugs therapy and started the modified anti-tubercular drugs therapy. As a Clinical pharmacist we advise the patients & patients relatives, proper monitoring of liver and renal function test should also be carried out by the health care professional specialist from time to time in order to avoid critical situations.

Keywords: Anti-tubercular therapy, Anti-tubercular therapy induced liver injury, Pulmonologist, Hepatotoxicity.
Ocular Allergy: A Review on Ocular Effects of Cosmetic Products
Authors: Neena Cherakkulath C , Sreejith K. , Athulnadh B , Thasneem K.V. Musaina , Maniyan Namitha , Faris P.P. Muhamed
Published: October 2020

The eyes are the windows to the body, healthy brain function needs healthy eyesight. Recently so many problems arise due to the unsafe use of ocular cosmetics. Eye cosmetics can cause ocular allergy or toxicity. It produces mild discomfort to serious vision threatening problems. This review focus on the reason as well as problems associated with ocular cosmetics. Based on the data from various reviews and research shows that preservatives, metals & fragrances include in the products are the main causative agents for ocular allergy. The main adverse reactions were found to be allergic blepharo conjunctivitis, disruption of the tear film and other inflammatory reactions. The purpose of this article is to give a general awareness about the safe use of ocular cosmetics to get rid of ocular allergy.

Keywords: Ocular cosmetics; Ocular Allergy; Allergic contact blepharo conjunctivitis; inflammatory reactions.
Razões de isótopos estáveis em um testemunho de firn do manto de gelo da Antártica Oriental
Authors: TAVARES Flavia A. , SIMÕES Jefferson C. , BERNARDO Ronaldo T. , GERHARD Nicoli P. , CASASSA Gino , MARQUETTO Luciano
Published: October 2020

O testemunho de firn IC-02 (88°01’21,3"S e 82°04’21,7"W), atingindo 41,82 m de profundidade, foi coletado no manto de gelo da Antártica Oriental, durante uma travessia científica chileno-brasileira no verão austral de 2004/2005. Este estudo visou à determinação da variabilidade sazonal das razões isotópicas de oxigênio e hidrogênio (ẟ18O e ẟD) e da taxa anual de acumulação de neve. O testemunho foi subamostrado em um sistema de fusão contínua e o conteúdo isotópico determinado por espectrometria a laser de cavidade ressonante do tipo ring-down (WS-CRDS, sistema Picarro). A série de ẟ18O varia entre ‑50,77‰ e ‑41,40‰ (média -46,39 ± 1,37‰), enquanto o ẟD varia entre -408,18‰ e ‑323,85‰ (média -367,43 ± 12,51‰). O excesso de deutério (d) tem média de 4,36 ± 2,66‰. O testemunho representa 85 ± 3 anos de acumulação de neve, ou seja, uma taxa média de 152 ± 64 mm ano‑1 em equivalente d'água. A partir da década de 1990 ocorreu a diminuição da média anual de δD concomitante com o aumento da taxa de acumulação de neve (17% entre 1974 e 2003). O aumento desta acumulação poderia estar associado à maior mobilização de neve à deriva (drift snow) até o sítio de deposição, associada à maior advecção de massas de ar oceânicas vindas dos mares antárticos (Amundsen, Bellingshausen, Weddell e Lazarev). Tal interpretação é apoiada pelo aumento da velocidade dos ventos zonais, conforme observado nos campos de anomalias de altura geopotencial, vento zonal e temperatura em 500 mb da reanálise NCEP/NCAR.
Insectos asociados al agroecosistema de café bajo sombra en el Distrito de Milpuc, Amazonas, Perú
Authors: Huaman Pilco Angel Fernando , Leiva Espinoza Santos Triunfo , Oliva Cruz Segundo Manuel , Hernández May Manuel Alberto
Published: October 2020

Introducción: Los agroecosistemas de C. arabica bajo sombra son de los cultivos que se consideran no dañinos para la biodiversidad, sin embargo, dada la importancia ecológica que tienen en el resguardo de muchas especies son escasos los estudios en este cultivo en la zona. Objetivo: Proporcionar información sobre la diversidad y la fluctuación de insectos asociados al agroecosistema de café bajo sombra, mediante un estudio faunístico. Métodos: Los insectos se recolectaron sobre diez plantas de C. arabica divididas en tres estratos (bajo, medio y alto) cada 15 días durante los meses de junio a octubre del 2018, utilizando la red de golpeo, el aspirador y trampas Pitfall. Resultados: Recolectamos 1, 923 especímenes pertenecientes a 40 géneros, 35 familias y ocho órdenes. Hemiptera fue el orden con más riqueza de familias registradas (9) y más géneros (13). Coleoptera registró la mayor abundancia con 538 (27,98%). Apis sp y Canthon sp fueron los géneros con la mayor abundancia ambos con 108 individuos. La mayor riqueza, abundancia y diversidad se registró en el estrato medio con 35 especies, 756 individuos y con 1D= 28,53, 2D=25,56. La máxima abundancia de los insectos coincide con la precipitación y humedad alta, y con los valores de temperatura baja. La curva de acumulación se estabilizó a partir del muestreo cinco. Conclusión: Presentamos el primer estudio sobre la entomofauna en un agroecosistemas de C. arabica con manejo orgánico, mostrando que alberga una alta diversidad y que es importante para el refugio y la conservación de insectos benéficos.
Bridging the Digital Divide and the Impact on Poverty in Nigeria
Authors:   Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria, Akanbi B.E. , Akanbi C.A.
Published: October 2020

This paper examined the issue of the gap in access to Information and Communication Technology(ICT) known as the digital divide and its linkages to poverty in Nigeria. The study found that the contributions of access to the use of ICTs to poverty in Nigeria has been marginal. This was also found out to be partly due to some teething problems such as poor quality of service caused primarily by network capacity constraints, lack of physical and transmission infrastructure, scarce spectrum resources, unreliable electric supply e.t.c which are still confronting ICT usage in Nigeria. Finally, a summary with some policy recommendations are presented.
Improving the growth and yield of okra by intercropping with varying populations of legumes
Authors: Ajayi Emmanuel , Okonji Christopher , Ayanlola Olamide , Olofintoye Temidayo , Oyelowo Deborah
Published: October 2020

An experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm of the National
Horticultural Research Institute, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, in the
rain-forest agro-ecological zone in 2016 and 2017 to determine suitable
cropping systems to increase the yield of okra. The seed of okra
(Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench), cv. LD-88, was planted at a spacing of
60 ? 40 cm as an intercrop and monocrop to produce an average density of 4.2
plants?m-2; the intercrops cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), var. Ife
brown, and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), var. Kampala, were planted to
provide average densities of 5.6 plants?m-2, 4.2 plants?m-2, 3.3 plants?m-2
and 2.7 plants?m-2. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves,
leaf area, stem diameter and fruit yield of okra. Year affected plant
height, number of leaves, leaf area, stem diameter and fruit yield of okra
intercropped with legumes at different densities. Legume densities affected
plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter, leaf area and fruit yield.
The interaction of year ? legume densities affected plant height, number of
leaves, stem diameter, leaf area and fruit yield of okra. Intercropping okra
with peanut at the density of 2.7 plants?m-2 enhanced its growth and yield
and appeared to be the best configuration for these crops.
Class II subdivision with skeletal transverse maxillary deficit treated by single-sitting bone-borne appliance:
Authors: Lombardo Luca , Palone Mario , Maino Giuliano , Paoletto Emanuele , Carlucci Antonella , Siciliani Giuseppe
Published: October 2020

This case report describes orthodontic treatment including both skeletal maxillary expansion and unilateral distalization by means of a single bone-borne appliance followed by clear aligner therapy in a young adult patient. A surgical guide was digitally designed and three-dimensionally printed to facilitate the placement of four miniscrews in the palatal vault. The miniscrews were fitted and the bone-borne appliance was delivered in a single clinical appointment. The postexpansion photographic records and models demonstrate the opening of the palatal median suture, the pure skeletal expansion, and the resolution of the left crossbite after 40 activations. Specifically, left molar Class I was obtained in about 5 months without any loss of anterior anchorage, and the subsequent aligner phase achieved all of the objectives established in the treatment plan. This case report shows clearly how careful digital planning of miniscrew insertion and the delivery of a pure bone-borne appliance in a single sitting enabled good clinical outcomes to be achieved in an acceptable timeframe, without side effects, even in a young adult patient.