bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamifying Parenting Education Using an App Developed for Pacific and Other New Zealand Families (Play Kindly): Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Mairs Rebecca A , Bekker Marthinus J , Patolo Tony , Hopkins Sarah A , Cowley-Malcolm Esther T , Perese Lana M , Sundborn Gerhard B , Merry Sally N
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Play Kindly is a gamified animated app designed to address common behavioral problems in childhood. The interface is designed to appeal to Pacific people, a population group with a higher risk of developing clinically significant behavioral problems than most other ethnic groups in New Zealand.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to explore the opinions of parents and professionals about the acceptability, usability, and content of Play Kindly.

METHODS

We used qualitative and Pacific and Māori research methodologies. A total of five focus groups with 45 parents and 12 individual interviews with professionals were conducted. The five focus groups consisted of 2 pan-Pacific groups, 1 Māori group, 1 open group, and 1 group of young Pacific adults or prospective parents. The professionals were from a range of disciplines, and the majority had expertise in early childhood, parenting interventions, or research in this field.

RESULTS

Play Kindly appealed to both parents and professionals. Participants related to the scenarios, which were created in collaboration with a playwright and animator. Although most participants liked the Pacific feel, there was some disagreement about how culturally specific the app should be. A range of issues with usability and gamification techniques were highlighted, likely attributed to the low budget and lack of initial co-design with parents as well as professionals with specific expertise in parenting. A number of parents and professionals felt that the parenting strategies were overly simplified and did not take into account the context in which the behavior occurred. Professionals suggested narrowing the focus of the app to deliver two important parenting messages: playing with your child and positively reinforcing desired behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

Play Kindly is the first culturally adapted parenting app of its kind designed for Pacific parents and other New Zealanders with children 2-5 years of age. This app has potential in Pacific communities where there are limited culturally specific parenting resources. The results of this study will guide improvements of the app prior to testing it in an open trial.
A New System for Surveillance and Digital Contact Tracing for COVID-19: Spatiotemporal Reporting Over Network and GPS (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Shaoxiong , Ding Shuizi , Xiong Li
Published: June 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

The current pandemic of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has highlighted the importance of rapid control of the transmission of infectious diseases. This is particularly important for COVID-19, where many individuals are asymptomatic or have only mild symptoms but can still spread the disease. Current systems for controlling transmission rely on patients to report their symptoms to medical professionals and be able to recall and trace all their contacts from the previous few days. This is unrealistic in the modern world. However, existing smartphone-based GPS and social media technology may provide a suitable alternative. We, therefore, developed a mini-program within the app WeChat. This analyzes data from all users and traces close contacts of all patients. This permits early tracing and quarantine of potential sources of infection. Data from the mini-program can also be merged with other data to predict epidemic trends, calculate individual and population risks, and provide recommendations for individual and population protection action. It may also improve our understanding of how the disease spreads. However, there are a number of unresolved questions about the use of smartphone data for health surveillance, including how to protect individual privacy and provide safeguards against data breaches.
Cancer Patients’ Perceived Value of a Smartphone App to Enhance the Safety of Home-Based Chemotherapy: Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kongshaug Nina , Skolbekken John-Arne , Faxvaag Arild , Hofsli Eva
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Oral anticancer therapies can be self-administered by patients outside the hospital setting, which poses challenges of adherence to a drug plan and monitoring of side effects. Modern information technology may be developed and implemented to address these pertinent issues.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore how a smartphone app developed through a stepwise, iterative process can help patients using oral chemotherapy to take their drug, and to report adherence and side effects in a reliable and verifiable manner.

METHODS

Fourteen patients starting capecitabine treatment were included in this study and used the smartphone app in addition to regular follow up of capecitabine treatment. Nine of these patients fulfilled the treatment plan and were interviewed based on a semistructured interview guide and the System Usability Scale (SUS). In addition, two focus groups were completed with 7 oncologists and 7 oncology nurses, respectively. Interview data were analyzed in accordance with the principles of systematic text condensation. Features of the app were also assessed.

RESULTS

The smartphone app provided the patients with a feeling of reassurance regarding correct adherence of their oral chemotherapy treatment. They used the app as a memory tool about their treatment and possible serious side effects, as well as for treatment education. Patients expressed concerns about using the app to report side effects that were not considered to be obviously serious, fearing overreporting. The health personnel expressed an overall positive attitude to integrate this new tool in their everyday work.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients on oral chemotherapy treatment at home felt safe and found the app to be helpful. The app promoted learning about their treatment and made the patients more independent of the cancer clinic, reducing the need for the clinic’s limited resources for follow up of patients on oral anticancer medications.
Effectiveness of Virtual Medical Teaching During the COVID-19 Crisis: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Wilcha Robyn-Jenia
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

In December 2019, COVID-19 emerged and rapidly spread worldwide. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is high; as a result, countries worldwide have imposed rigorous public health measures, such as quarantine. This has involved the suspension of medical school classes globally. Medical school attachments are vital to aid the progression of students’ confidence and competencies as future physicians. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, medical schools have sought ways to replace medical placements with virtual clinical teaching.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to review the advantages and disadvantages of virtual medical teaching for medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic based on the current emerging literature.

METHODS

A brief qualitative review based on the application and effectiveness of virtual teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic was conducted by referencing keywords, including medical student virtual teaching COVID-19, virtual undergraduate medical education, and virtual medical education COVID-19, in the electronic databases of PubMed and Google Scholar. A total of 201 articles were found, of which 34 were included in the study. Manual searches of the reference lists of the included articles yielded 5 additional articles. The findings were tabulated and assessed under the following headings: summary of virtual teaching offered, strengths of virtual teaching, and weaknesses of virtual teaching.

RESULTS

The strengths of virtual teaching included the variety of web-based resources available. New interactive forms of virtual teaching are being developed to enable students to interact with patients from their homes. Open-access teaching with medical experts has enabled students to remain abreast of the latest medical advancements and to reclaim knowledge lost by the suspension of university classes and clinical attachments. Peer mentoring has been proven to be a valuable tool for medical students with aims of increasing knowledge and providing psychological support. Weaknesses of virtual teaching included technical challenges, confidentiality issues, reduced student engagement, and loss of assessments. The mental well-being of students was found to be negatively affected during the pandemic. Inequalities of virtual teaching services worldwide were also noted to cause differences in medical education.

CONCLUSIONS

In the unprecedented times of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical schools have a duty to provide ongoing education to medical students. The continuation of teaching is crucial to enable the graduation of future physicians into society. The evidence suggests that virtual teaching is effective, and institutions are working to further develop these resources to improve student engagement and interactivity. Moving forward, medical faculties must adopt a more holistic approach to student education and consider the mental impact of COVID-19 on students as well as improve the security and technology of virtual platforms.
COVID-19–Induced Fear in Infoveillance Studies: Pilot Meta-analysis Study of Preliminary Results (Preprint)
Authors: Geronikolou Styliani , Chrousos George
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization named the phenomenon of misinformation spread through social media as an “infodemic” and recognized the need to curb it. Misinformation infodemics undermine not only population safety but also compliance to the suggestions and prophylactic measures recommended during pandemics.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this pilot study is to review the impact of social media on general population fear in “infoveillance” studies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) protocol was followed, and 6 out of 20 studies were retrieved, meta-analyzed, and had their findings presented in the form of a forest plot.

RESULTS

The summary random and significant event rate was 0.298 (95% CI 0.213-0.400), suggesting that social media–circulated misinformation related to COVID-19 triggered public fear and other psychological manifestations. These findings merit special attention by public health authorities.

CONCLUSIONS

Infodemiology and infoveillance are valid tools in the hands of epidemiologists to help prevent dissemination of false information, which has potentially damaging effects.
Leveraging Social Media Practices among Adolescent Cannabis Users to Develop a Mobile Health Intervention (Preprint)
Authors: Hodgdon Elizabeth , Bath Eraka , Eberhard Janelle , Bagot Kara
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Despite the universal adoption of mobile technology, adolescents generally do not use mobile health (mHealth) platforms. Those who do download mHealth applications have low retention rates.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to characterize patterns of Internet, smartphone and social media use among adolescent cannabis users to leverage youth behavioral patterns for future mHealth substance use intervention development.

METHODS

Four self-report questionnaires measuring illicit substance and mobile technology use were administered to cannabis-using adolescents aged 14-18.

RESULTS

Participants spent, on average, 4-6 hours per day using the Internet, including 1-3 hours spent on social media sites. Nearly every participant used multiple social media applications, most commonly, YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook. The primary reasons given for engaging with social media were boredom and staying connected with friends.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents are frequently engaging with their smartphones, primarily using social media as means to communicate and occupy time. Further examination of cannabis-using adolescents’ technological preferences may be valuable to promote adoption and retention of mHealth interventions.
Spanish Version of the System Usability Scale for the Assessment of Electronic Tools: Development and Validation (Preprint)
Authors: Sevilla-Gonzalez Magdalena Del Rocio , Moreno Loaeza Lizbeth , Lazaro-Carrera Laura Sofia , Bourguet Ramirez Brigette , Vázquez Rodríguez Anabel , Peralta-Pedrero María Luisa , Almeda-Valdes Paloma
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The System Usability Scale (SUS) is a common metric used to assess the usability of a system, and it was initially developed in English. The implementation of electronic systems for clinical counseling (eHealth and mobile health) is increasing worldwide. Therefore, tools are needed to evaluate these applications in the languages and regional contexts in which the electronic tools are developed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the original English version of the SUS into a Spanish version.

METHODS

The translation process included forward and backward translation. Forward translations were made by 2 native Spanish speakers who spoke English as their second language, and a backward translation was made by a native English speaker. The Spanish SUS questionnaire was validated by 10 experts in mobile app development. The face validity of the questionnaire was tested with 10 mobile phone users, and the reliability testing was conducted among 88 electronic application users.

RESULTS

The content validity index of the new Spanish SUS was good, as indicated by a rating of 0.92 for the relevance of the items. The questionnaire was easy to understand, based on a face validity index of 0.94. The Cronbach α was .812 (95% CI 0.748-0.866; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The new Spanish SUS questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool to assess the usability of electronic tools among Spanish-speaking users.
Postprandial effects of macronutrient composition meals on metabolic responses and arterial stiffness indexes in lean and obese men adults; a protocol study (Preprint)
Authors: Pahlavani Naseh , Firouzi Safieh , Rezvani Reza , Jarahi Lida , Malekahmadi Mahsa , Taghipour Ali , Ranjbar Golnaz , Taherzadeh Zhila , Safarian Mohammad
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Background: Prior studies have shown that meal composition is capable of effect on metabolic response and arterial stiffness indexes.

OBJECTIVE

Objective: A three-phase parallel study will design to investigate the effects of meal composition on metabolic parameters and arterial stiffness indexes among lean and obese adult. The planned study protocol is presented

METHODS

Methods/design: This is a parallel clinical trial targeting adults (aged 18–35 years, free from any diseases) selected by inclusion and exclusion criteria at Mashhad University Medical Sciences. Each subject will complete three interventions with a washout period of one week: high carbohydrate, high protein and high fat meal. The postprandial effect will be assessed during 360 minutes from each meal including energy expenditure component, pulse wave analysis and pulse wave velocity and blood sampling.

RESULTS

N/A

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic Responses, Macronutrients Composition, Arterial Stiffness, Study Protocol: The differences in postprandial response due to different meal composition could affect of metabolic and vascular parameters. This could provide necessary information for the establishment of new strategies in terms of nutritional education and metabolic and vascular improvement.

CLINICALTRIAL

Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20190818044552N1. Registered on August 26, 2019
How to Improve Compliance with Protective Health Measures During the Covid-19 Outbreak: Testing a Moderated Mediation Model and Machine Learning Algorithms (Preprint)
Authors: Mazza Cristina , Monaro Merylin , Muzi Laura , Colasanti Marco , Ricci Eleonora , Biondi Silvia , Ferracuti Stefano , Roma Paolo
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

In the wake of the sudden spread of COVID-19, much of the Italian population practiced behaviors that were incongruous with the protective health measures promoted by the Italian government.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed at examining psychological and psychosocial variables that could potentially predict behavioral compliance.

METHODS

An online survey was administered from 18–22 March 2020. There were 2,766 participants (71.7% female, 28.3% male), with an average age of 32.94 years (SD = 13.2; range 18–90 years). Paired sample t-tests were run to compare efficacy perception with behavioral compliance. Mediation and moderated mediation models were constructed to explore the association between perceived efficacy and compliance, mediated by self-efficacy and moderated by risk perception and civic attitudes. Machine learning algorithms were trained on all of the collected psychosocial variables to predict which individuals would be more likely to comply with COVID-19 protective measures.

RESULTS

The results indicated significantly lower scores in behavioral compliance (M = 41.7, SD = 6.20) relative to efficacy perception (M = 44.8, SD = 6.17). The introduction of risk perception and civic attitudes as moderators rendered the mediating effect of self-efficacy insignificant. The impact of perceived efficacy on the adoption of recommended behaviors varied in accordance with risk perception and civic engagement. The best pool of predictors (15 out of 199), identified using the correlation-based feature selector, produced a ROC area in the range of 0.83–0.93 for classifying individuals as high versus low compliance.

CONCLUSIONS

Government awareness communications and campaigns regarding COVID-19 and related protective measures should be tailored to specific segments of the population, as defined by age and level of education. Furthermore, they should emphasize the efficacy of the recommended measures in successfully preventing the virus spread. Finally, they should take into account risk perception and should highlight the importance of civic engagement.

CLINICALTRIAL

N/A
Twitter activity about treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic: case studies of remdesivir, hydroxychloroquine, and convalescent plasma. (Preprint)
Authors: Hamamsy Tymor , Bonneau Richard
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, the public has been eager for news about promising treatments, and social media has played a large role in information dissemination.

OBJECTIVE

In this paper, our objectives are to characterize the public discussion of treatments on Twitter, and demonstrate the utility of these discussions for public health surveillance.

METHODS

We pulled tweets related to three promising COVID-19 treatments (hydroxychloroquine, remdevisir and convalescent plasma), between the dates of February 28th and May 22nd using the Twitter public API. We characterize treatment tweet trends over this time period.

RESULTS

Most major tweet/retweet/sentiment trends correlated to public announcement made by the white house and/or to new clinical trial evidence about treatments. Most of the websites people shared in treatment-related tweets were non-scientific media sources that leaned conservative. Hydroxychloroquine was the most discussed treatment on Twitter, and over 10% of hydroxychloroquine tweets mentioned an adverse drug reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a gap between the public’s attention/discussion around COVID-19 treatments and their evidence. Twitter data can and should be used public health surveillance during this pandemic, as it is informative for monitoring adverse drug reactions, especially as many people avoid going to hospitals/doctors.
Effects of COVID-19 on College Students’ Mental Health in the United States: Interview Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Son Changwon , Hegde Sudeep , Smith Alec , Wang Xiaomei , Sasangohar Farzan
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Student mental health in higher education has been an increasing concern. The COVID-19 pandemic situation has brought this vulnerable population into renewed focus.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aims to conduct a timely assessment of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of college students.

METHODS

We conducted interview surveys with 195 students at a large public university in the United States to understand the effects of the pandemic on their mental health and well-being. The data were analyzed through quantitative and qualitative methods.

RESULTS

Of the 195 students, 138 (71%) indicated increased stress and anxiety due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Multiple stressors were identified that contributed to the increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depressive thoughts among students. These included fear and worry about their own health and of their loved ones (177/195, 91% reported negative impacts of the pandemic), difficulty in concentrating (173/195, 89%), disruptions to sleeping patterns (168/195, 86%), decreased social interactions due to physical distancing (167/195, 86%), and increased concerns on academic performance (159/195, 82%). To cope with stress and anxiety, participants have sought support from others and helped themselves by adopting either negative or positive coping mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the long-lasting pandemic situation and onerous measures such as lockdown and stay-at-home orders, the COVID-19 pandemic brings negative impacts on higher education. The findings of our study highlight the urgent need to develop interventions and preventive strategies to address the mental health of college students.
Evaluation of ReachOut.com, an Unstructured Digital Youth Mental Health Intervention: Prospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kahl Bianca Lorraine , Miller Hilary May , Cairns Kathryn , Giniunas Hayley , Nicholas Mariesa
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Young people experience a disproportionate burden associated with mental illness that Australia’s mental health care system is ill-equipped to handle. Despite improvements in the provision of mental health services, the rates of service utilization among young people remain suboptimal, and there are still considerable barriers to seeking help. Digital mental health services can overcome a number of barriers and connect young people requiring support; however, the evidence base of digital interventions is limited.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness of a brief, self-directed, unstructured digital intervention, ReachOut.com (hereafter ReachOut), in reducing depression, anxiety, stress, and risk of suicide.

METHODS

A cohort of 1982 ReachOut users participated in a 12-week longitudinal study, with a retention rate of 81.18% (1609/1982) across the duration of the study. Participants completed web-based surveys, with outcome measures of mental health status and suicide risk assessed at 3 time points across the study period.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that over the 12-week study period, young people using ReachOut experienced modest yet significant reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Significant, albeit modest, reductions in the proportion of participants at high risk of suicide were also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this research provide preliminary evidence of the promise of an unstructured digital mental health intervention, ReachOut, in alleviating symptoms of mental ill-health and promoting well-being in young people. These findings are particularly important given that digital services are not only acceptable and accessible but also have the potential to cater to the diverse mental health needs of young people at scale, in a way that other services cannot.
Impacto de los precios de los metales en la estructura de capital de las empresas minero-metalúrgicas en América Latina (2004-2014)
Authors: Santillán Salgado Roberto Joaquín , Fonseca Ramírez Alejandro , Venegas Martínez Francisco
Published: June 2020

Este trabajo examina los efectos de corto y mediano plazo de las fluctuaciones de los precios internacionales de varios productos minerales (oro, plata, cobre, zinc) y metalúrgicos (aluminio, acero) sobre la estructura de capital de las empresas de la industria minera y metalúrgica listadas en los mercados bursátiles de Argentina, Brasil, México y Perú. Se utilizan datos trimestrales para el periodo 2000-2014. Consistente con la teoría del Orden Selectivo de Preferencia Dinámico “Dynamic Pecking Order”, los resultados del análisis econométrico confirman que la rentabilidad y los precios de los productos se relacionan negativamente con en el apalancamiento financiero de las empresas.
Entre la vida parroquial y la militancia política: el espacio urbano para la Unión de Damas Católicas, 1912-1930
Authors: Crespo Reyes Sofía
Published: June 2020

El artículo analiza la forma en que la Unión de Damas Católicas Mexicanas (1912-1932) desarrolló su vida asociativa a partir de promover un programa de acción político-social utilizando diversas dimensiones del espacio urbano de la ciudad de México: la parroquia, la manzana, los barrios y las colonias. Igualmente, examina cómo sus acciones por la ciudad posibilitaron a la Unión construir un entramado social a través del cual actuaron en distintos campos de manera simultánea, múltiple y articulada. Así, mientras crearon un sistema catequístico, fundaron sindicatos, establecieron escuelas, instaurando una estructura material y espacial que les dio soporte para enfrentar pública y políticamente a los gobiernos posrevolucionarios. Se evalúa el papel de la parroquia como una institución fundamental en la composición y acomodo de las Damas Católicas en la estructura urbana.
Preparation and Evaluation of Sodium Alginate Microparticles using Pepsin
Authors: Bhattacharya Sankha , Puri Vishal , Sharma Shubham , Sahoo Debasish , Pal Pradeep Kumar , Kujur Sima , Goyal Gaurav , Singh Amandeep
Published: June 2020

Aim: The main aim of this article is to prepare and evaluate sodium alginate microparticles and evaluate on the basis of their characterization. The drug is dissolved, encapsulated or attached to a microparticles matrix. Depending upon method of preparation microparticles were obtained. Microparticles were developed as a carrier for vaccines and other disease like rheumatoid arthritis, cancer etc. Microparticles were developed to increase the efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredient to a specific targeted site.

Material and Method: Microparticles of Sodium Alginate, Pepsin and Calcium Chloride were prepared in six batches (A-F) with different ratio of sodium alginate and calcium chloride respectively i.e. (0.25:2.5), (0.25:5), (0.25:7.5), (0.5:2.5), (0.5:5), (0.5:7.5) by using a homogenizing method. Microparticles were evaluated for particle size distribution, zeta potential and morphology.

Result and Discussion:  The normal particle size of each of the six batches were analyzed by Zeta Sizer (Delsa C Particle Analyzer) and it was found that the Batch B (0.25:5) delivered the best microparticles with size distribution of 1.2731 (µm). All batches were seen under Motic magnifying microscope by using the Sulforhodamine B (M.W. 479.02) color as staining dye. Microparticles was found to be semi spherical in shape.

Conclusion: Results of all the six batches was contrasted based on particle size investigation, zeta potential and morphology. Batch B (0.25:5) was considered as the best formulation.

Key words:  Micro Particle, Pepsin, Sodium Alginate and Calcium Chloride, Sulforhodamine B, Zeta Sizer.
GC-MS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemical Evaluation of the Ethanolic Extract of Gomphrena globosa L. Flowers
Authors: Esmat Azmat Unnisa , Mittapally Sirisha , Begum Safiya
Published: June 2020

Gomphrena globosa (L.) has high medicinal values. All parts are been used as folk medicines. The extract of whole plant / flowers has shown different phytochemical constituents with various clinical properties. These phytochemicals recognised are responsible for various activities such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, analgesic and cytotoxic. The ethanolic extract of Gomphrena globosa L. flowers of biochemical test indicates the presence of sterols, triterpenoid, tannins, phenols and flavonoids, and on GC-MS analysis it has shown 11 phytochemical compounds with different pharmacological activities. The major bioactive compounds are Docosanoic Acid, Docosyl Ester (25.404%) and Hexatriacontane (24.324%), has proven anti-inflammatory activity.

Keywords: Gomphrena globose L., phytochemical constituents, GC-MS and anti-inflammatory.
Acute and Sub-acute Toxic Effects of Algerian Peganum harmala L. Crud Extract
Authors: Rezzagui Abir , Merghem Mounira , Derafa Ismahane , Dahamna Saliha
Published: June 2020

The present study was carried out to evaluate the acute and sub-acute toxicity of Algerian Peganum harmala L. seeds (Zygophyllaceae). For the acute toxicity assessment, oral administration of P. harmala crud extract to mice in single doses of 0-12 g/kg caused dose-dependent general behavior adverse effects and mortality with LD50 of 2,86 g/kg. In the sub-acute study, daily oral administration of the crude aqueous extract for 28 consecutive days did not result no mortality. However, our results showed a significant difference in organs weights between control and treated animals. In the biochemical analysis, significant changes occurred in Bilirubin, uric acid (UA) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the treated animals when compared to the control ones. Hematological analysis showed differences in WBC count and Hemoglobin estimation. However, urinalysis was negative for all parameters except Glucose in the treated group. Pathologically, a few gross abnormalities and histological changes were observed in hepatic and nephritic tissues.

Keywords: Peganum harmala L., Acute and Sub-Acute Toxicity, Hematological parameters, Biochemical parameters
Validation of Stability Indicating Method and Degradation Kinetic Study of Apremilast
Authors: Patel Jitesha , Chokshi Parin , Mashru Rajashree
Published: June 2020

A novel stability indicating RP- HPLC method was developed for the estimation of Apremilast in bulk and marketed formulation. Separation was achieved by using Shimadzu HPLC Analytical Technologies Limited C18 (250 mm x 4.6 mm, 5µm) as stationary phase. The optimized mobile phase consist of potassium dihydrogen ortho phosphate (pH-3.2): acetonitrile in ratio of 40:60 %v/v with flow rate of 1mL/min by using methanol as diluent. Retention time of Apremilast was found to be 5.4 min which was estimated at wavelength 360nm. Linearity of Apremilast was observed in the concentration range of 50-400µg/mL with r² value of 0.9999. Assay of Apremilast tablet was found to be 99.14-100.75%. Stability indicating nature of RP- HPLC method was estimated by conducting degradation kinetic study. The forced degradation of Apremilast bulk indicate that degradation in acidic, alkali, oxidative and photolysis condition were found to be 21%, 6.5%, 25.7% and 3.9% respectively. The kinetic study of apremilast in alkali degradation followed first order kinetic study. The result indicate that the developed RP-HPLC method is suitable for estimation of Apremilast in presence of degradant product. The above method was validated as per ICH guideline.

Keywords: Apremilast, RP-HPLC, Validation, Forced Degradation Study, Alkali Degradation Kinetic study
Evaluation of the anti-diabetic effect of the methanol leaf extract and fractions of Dennettia tripetala G. Bak (Annonaceae) in alloxan- induced diabetic mice
Authors: Abonyi Uchenna Collins , Omoiri Moses A , Akah Peter A
Published: June 2020

This study evaluated the anti-diabetic properties of the methanol extract and fractions of Dennettia tripetala leaves in alloxan diabetic rats. The crude  methanol extract (ME), n-hexane  (NF), ethyl acetate  (EAF), butanol  (BF) and water  (WF) fractions,  were tested for anti-diabetic activity in  alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The extracts and its fractions were screened for phytochemical constituents. Glibenclamide was used as the standard anti-diabetic treatment   Fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were determined using a glucometer.  Lipid profile parameters were also assessed.  Histopathological examination of the pancreas was performed. The presence of glycosides, saponins, reducing sugars, fats and oil, alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, proteins and tannins were detected in ME, and the fractions. Treatment of the rats with the extract and its fractions reduced FBG levels significantly (p < 0.05) within 10 hours of acute treatment and 14 days short term treatment.  The highest reduction was by the crude extract,( ME 500 mg/kg) with percentage reduction of 62.89 %. The study revealed  significant (p < 0.05) reductions in serum triglyceride, serum cholesterol and LDL levels  by the extracts and its fractions  while a significant (p <  0.05) increase  in HDL levels was evident .  The effect of the extract and fractions on body weight indicated a moderate weight gain. Treatment with high dose of the extract and fractions (500 mg/kg) resulted in marked rejuvenation of the pancreatic β cells. The results of this study suggest that the leaves of Dennetia tripetala are endowed with potent anti-diabetic and antilipidemic properties.  

Keywords: Dennetia tripetala, Antidiabetic, Alloxan, Lipid profile, Histopathplogy.
Expressions of biomarkers in MCF7 Breast and Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Rao Poorima BN , Deeba Farah
Published: June 2020

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death which accounts for 13% of total deaths, worldwide.  Colorectal and Breast cancer fall under main categories according to World Health Organisation (WHO) cancer facts sheet 1. The need to understand the expression of clinical biomarkers in breast cancer and colon cancer is necessary for diagnosis and therapeutic response. In this article, the expressions of histone H1 and TP53 biomarkers were established for four different colon cancer cell lines and compared with the expressions of MCF7 cell line. The results show varied expression of Histone H1 along with TP53 markers among the cell lines. The results suggest that the linker Histone H1 has shown nuclear localization in HCT 116p53 wt (wild type) cancer cell line whereas it has shown cytoplasmic distribution in the respective null type cell line with intense expression. The result also suggests that a localized distribution in HRA19 cells and a diffused distribution in SNU-C2B cell line. These established results were compared with the expression of the biomarkers in MCF7 in order to get a better understanding.

Keywords: Tumour Proteins, p53, H1, MCF-7 cell, HCT116, HRA19.
Religiosity of the urban community in Kazakhstan
Authors: Alimbekova G. T. , Shabdenova A. B. , Lifanova T. Yu.
Published: June 2020

Religious values as the most important component of the worldview can significantly affect various aspects of human life - from everyday practices to political preferences. The analysis of changes in religiosity shows that in the post-Soviet space, there is a clear tendency of the transition from atheistic attitudes to the religious revival. In the contemporary Kazakhstan society, a complex model of religious identity develops - it combines ideals and norms of religious consciousness with ideas of spirituality and national revival, but the confession values can often only be of an external, declarative nature. According to different studies, in Kazakhstan, the share of believers following religious practices increases. The question is whether people really observe religious rites and traditions and follow religious regulations. The article summarizes the results of the study conducted by the Center for the Study of Public Opinion to assess the religiosity of the Almaty urban community. The survey showed that the share of people who identify themselves as a part of some confession is significant; however, this is not a direct indicator of the increase in the number of true believers seeking to actively follow all religious rules and practices. The article presents the data on the activity of respondents in religious practices, their knowledge and understanding of some religious postulates. The study showed that the religious renaissance among the youth can be accompanied by undeveloped religious consciousness and insufficient religious knowledge, which provides grounds for the dissemination of pseudo-religious ideas including the extremist ones.
Assessment of risks of occurrence and consequences of oil spill in the area of the Cheboksary river port
Authors: Plastinin Andrey E. , Domnina Olga L. , Zakharov Vasily N. , Safarov Ayrat M.
Published: June 2020

Due to the significant number of oil spill incidents, spill forecasting plays an important role in developing plans for their prevention and response. In this article, the authors propose an analysis of the risk of oil pollution from ships in the region of the Cheboksary river port. The analysis was performed by determining the frequency of oil spills in the vicinity of the specified port, assessing the consequences (losses) and summarizing the estimates. At the same time, using mathematical modeling of oil spills in the region of the Cheboksary river port, the authors developed regression models for assessing damaging factors and calculated the size of the damage to the components of the environment (water, soil, air). The results of the studies performed in this work can be used in the development of measures to prevent or reduce the adverse effects of emergency situations, taking into account the natural and climatic conditions.
A review in Southeastern Nigeria: environmental problems and management solutions
Authors: Kalu Nwankwo Nnabueze , Zakirova Yulia L.
Published: June 2020

This article aims at understanding the environmental problems in the Southeastern part of Nigeria and how they affect public activities and values. It is meant to highlight the standard of living, environmental conditions, and the possible solutions with challenges to sustaining the environment. The Southeastern part of Nigeria is becoming heavily influenced by climate change. Problems and difficulties are stretching from persistent flooding to destruction of natural habitat and environmentally related health issues. In other words, this article answers questions related to environmental problems and reveals the reason why there are frequent occurrences of these problems. Another crucial part is in the explanation of the social behaviour and complex risks associated with ignorance of indirect human activities, focusing more on the issues which could be in the water, soil, and air. In concerns towards environmental problems in Southeastern Nigeria, this article will lay more emphasis on the most persistent environmental issues and concerns affecting these areas and how to manage them.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Multi Layered Magnetic Nanoparticles as Versatile Carrier for Anti-Cancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Subbiah Latha  , Palanisamy Selvamani  , Thangavelu Prabha  , Jawahar Natarajan
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study is to develop a passive targeting of multilayered nanoparticles encountering multiple obstacles on the way to their target due to the mucosal barrier, nonspecific uptake of the drug. To prevent the nonspecific drug toxicity and combination chemotherapy for synergistic effect, multifunctional ferromagnetic properties were successfully fabricated by the layer-by-layer assembly (LBL) technique. The drug-loaded magnetic chitosan nanospheres were coated alternatively with sodium alginate and chitosan up to 3 layers incorporated with melphalan and methotrexate. The core-shell type  composites  consisting  of  magnetic  nanoparticles  decorated  with  biological  substances  are  interesting  for  various biomedical applications. The magnetic property investigation reveals that drug-loaded nanomaterials exhibit superparamagnetic behavior. The uniformly distributed magnetic nanoparticles were also observed in scanning electron microscopic images to characterize the synthesized product. The thin film consisting of chitosan nanospheres was coated alternatively with sodium alginate and magnetic nanoparticles had a conductivity of two formulations F1a and F2a were 35.2 emu/g and 43.4 emu/g respectively. The formulation was evaluated for its particle size, size distribution, zeta potential, and in-vitro drug release in the pH of 1.2 and 7.0 fitted in kinetic release studies. The developed magnetic nanoparticles showed promising results with better- delayed drug action and will be an enhanced therapeutic means in combating the infections of cancer therapy.
Business ethics: A connection to good corporate governance implementation
Authors: Kesuma Sambas Ade , Risanty Risanty , Mubarok Muhammad Husni , Marisa Citra
Published: June 2020

The main purpose of this study is to discuss business ethics and good corporate governance implementation. Business ethics is the foundation of good corporate governance implementation in a company. The existence of ethics in the company is expected to be a benchmark for measuring moral values, especially policies. It is also expected that the application of good business ethics elevates the implementation of good corporate governance. The establishment of supervisory institutions in public sector organizations is also expected to be the best way to eliminate the ethical violation. Thus, good business practices and the environment in Indonesia can be achieved.
Empowerment of rural community through the development of renewable electricity
Authors: Rachmawatie Dessy , Rustiadi Ernan , Fauzi Akhmad , Juanda Bambang
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to analyze the empowerment of electricity beneficiaries through community empowerment activities following the use of wind and solar renewable energy (PLTH) in Pantai Baru. To achieve these objectives, the data collection in this study was carried out using a structured research questionnaire to 68 PLTH electricity beneficiaries in Pantai Baru, where they are also managers of tourism business in Pantai Baru.This study uses a frequency distribution analysis method to identify: (1) the profile of renewable electricity beneficiaries and (2) determine the extent of empowerment renewable energy electricity beneficiaries in Pantai Baru. The results showed that the characteristics of the beneficiaries were generally of a mature age, had a clear direction of life and goals, and had and adequate level of education. Furthermore, in terms of the empowerment indicators used in this study, they are rated as high. Thus, this study indicates that the community empowerment activities through the development of renewable energy have an impact to the empowerment of PLTH electricity beneficiaries in Pantai Baru.
IMPACT OF SUBSIDIES ON THE FINANCIAL POSITION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT BUDGETARY ESTABLISHMENTS IN POLAND
Authors: Sołtyk Piotr
Published: June 2020

The article presents an assessment of the impact of subsidies received from the budget of a local government unit on the financial situation of local government budgetary establishments in Poland. As a result of the change in the financial law in 2009, budgetary establishments operate only at the local government level. Despite the fact that legislators decided that the sphere of tasks of budgetary establishments is strictly defined in the law, it is justified to assess the impact of the subjective subsidy transferred from the local government budget on the generated revenues. The article verifies the hypothesis, that the amount of the subsidy depends on the generated revenues. The hypothesis was verified using Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient vector and Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance. All analyses were performed with the Statistica v.12 package.
FOOD SELF-SUPPLY IN NEW CONSUMER TRENDS
Authors: Trębska Paulina
Published: June 2020

The article presents premises inscribing food self-supply in new trends occurring in consumer behavior and shows the opinions of consumers on food self-supply. The analysis used research conducted in 2017 in the Mazowieckie voivodship among representatives of rural households. Food self-supply is part of the concept of sustainable development and sustainable consumption. It is an example of the greening of consumption, and of conscious and collaborative consumption. The most important factors entering food self-supply into new consumer trends are natural and healthy food produced in accordance with sustainable development, care for health and the natural environment, cultivating traditions, but also product individualization related to the use of free time.
Rezerwy walutowe - „Rzecz Święta”
Authors: Zaleska Małgorzata
Published: June 2020

Celem opracowania jest uwypuklenie roli rezerw walutowych i wskazanie możliwości ich rzetelnego oraz prawidłowego gromadzenia i wykorzystania. Celami szczegółowymi są m.in. porównanie rezerw walutowych z innymi rodzajami rezerw bankowych oraz identyfikacja podstawowych rodzajów ryzyka związanych z zarządzaniem rezerwami walutowymi, w tym zmian w odpowiedzi na ostatni globalny kryzys finansowy, a ponadto określenie istoty i charakteru interwencji walutowych oraz identyfikacja ich rodzajów. W dobie zwiększania wydatków na cele polityczne i społeczne rośnie bowiem pokusa niewłaściwego wykorzystania rezerw walutowych. Do tego dochodzą wysokie globalne ryzyko polityczne oraz duża zmienność na rynkach finansowych, a także nowoczesne kanały (np. media społecznościowe) ataku na kursy walutowe. Czynniki te sprawiają, że zarządzanie rezerwami walutowymi nie należy do łatwych zadań i jest „wiedzą tajemną” banków centralnych.
Metodyczne i rynkowe aspekty ratingu listów zastawnych – doświadczenia z rynku niemieckiego
Authors: Lepczyński Błażej , Gostomski Eugeniusz
Published: June 2020

Rating międzynarodowych agencji ratingowych odgrywa szczególną rolę na rynku listów zastawnych. Z uwagi bowiem na duży stopień skomplikowania emisji listów zastawnych w zdecydowanej większości przypadków emisje listów zastawnych mają rating przyznany przez przynajmniej jedną międzynarodową agencję ratingową. Oznacza to, że rating stanowi ważną determinantę rozwoju rynku listów zastawnych. Nasze badania w odniesieniu do rynku niemieckiego potwierdzają tezę o dużym znaczeniu ratingu w rozwoju rynku listów zastawnych. W aspekcie metodycznym rating listów zastawnych jest kombinacją elementów ilościowych, jakościowych, a na końcowy wynik procedury ratingowej wpływ ma wynik oceny standingu finansowego emitenta listów zastawnych oraz jakości puli aktywów zabezpieczających. Z przeprowadzonych badań wynika, że poziom ocen ratingowych niemieckich listów zastawnych jest wysoki i co równie ważne stabilny w czasie. Jednak pomimo wysokiego bezpieczeństwa listów zastawnych rating poszczególnym emisjom jest często nadawany przez dwie lub trzy agencje, co przesądza o dużym znaczeniu ratingu jako czynnika rozwojowego, przede wszystkim wspierającego wiarygodność i przejrzystość rynku.
Efekt dźwigni finansowej a struktura źródeł finansowania przedsiębiorstw w Polsce w latach 2005-2018
Authors: Łach Katarzyna
Published: June 2020

Mechanizm dźwigni finansowej należy do podstawowych zagadnień zarządzania finansami przedsiębiorstwa, a dokładniej kształtowania struktury źródeł finansowania. Literatura poświęca temu zjawisku sporo uwagi, ale przede wszystkim od strony teoretycznej. Niewiele jest jednak badań empirycznych, w których zbadane by było czy mechanizm i efekt dźwigni finansowej jest znany i wykorzystywany przez praktyków. Celem niniejszego artykułu jest analiza racjonalności decyzji o stopniu zaangażowania kredytów i pożyczek w finansowaniu przedsiębiorstw z punktu widzenia efektu dźwigni finansowej. Analizą objęto lata 2005-2018, zbadano czy przedsiębiorstwa w Polsce miały możliwość wykorzystywania długu do zwiększania rentowności kapitałów własnych oraz sprawdzono czy decyzje o zaciąganiu kredytów i pożyczek były skorelowane z poziomem nadwyżki rentowności operacyjnej aktywów nad oprocentowaniem długu, co jest warunkiem pozytywnego efektu dźwigni finansowej. Wykazane zostało, że w większości badanych lat przedsiębiorstwa mogły podwyższać osiągane stopy zwrotu z kapitałów własnych poprzez zwiększanie udziału długu w finansowaniu, nie stwierdzono jednak, aby decyzje te były podejmowanie przy uwzględnianiu zjawiska i efektu dźwigni finansowej.