bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review on Rheumatoid Arthritis Interventions and Current Developments
Authors: Khanna Nikita , Kumar Anil , Pawar Sandip V.
Published: November 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation,
swelling, and joint destruction primarily affecting the peripheral joints. In recent years, RA has
become an alarming concern affecting more than 1.5% of the population worldwide. The majority
of the drugs in clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis are immunomodulatory. The development of
novel drugs for RA is impending and scientists are exploring new strategies through various
innovative approaches for RA drug development. Treat-to-target and window of opportunity
hypothesis are the new approaches that are used to treat, improve outcomes, and prevent long-term
use of ineffective therapy, respectively. Novel therapeutic agents (e.g. GM-CSF inhibitors, Matrix
metalloproteinase inhibitors) and delivery systems (e.g., Liposomes, Superparamagnetic iron oxide
nano particles (SPIONs)) are under investigation for more target based therapy with reduced side
effects and toxicity. The new drug discovery and repositioning of previously FDA-approved drugs
are also being considered for chronic inflammatory disorder. The review encompasses a vast array
of information, including genetics, etiology, clinical symptoms, current treatment, and newer
therapeutics approaches, focused on the development of RA interventions. The introduction of the
bioinformatics-based approach in RA has also been significantly discussed in the review. This
review provides a general understanding of the challenges and uncertainties in the treatment of RA
and summarizes the evolving scenario as well as innovative approaches taken into consideration
for drug development in rheumatoid arthritis.
Is Flow Diversion the Death of Simple Coiling or Stent-assisted Coiling? A Single-center Experience
Authors: Austerman Ryan J. , Sadrameli Saeed S. , Guerrero Jaime R. , Wong Marcus , Diaz Orlando , Klucznik Richard , Zhang Yi J. , Britz Gavin
Published: November 2020

Background::

Since the introduction of endovascular methods to treat cerebral
aneurysms, several technical advances have allowed a greater number of aneurysms to be treated
endovascularly as opposed to open surgical clipping. These include flow diverting stents, which do
not utilize coils and instead treat aneurysms by acting as an “internal bypass.” We sought to investigate
whether flow diversion is replacing coiling at our institution.

Methods::

A retrospective chart review on five years of data was conducted to investigate the possible
increasing use of flow diversion devices compared to traditional simple or stent-assisted coiling.

Results::

Over five years, the population revealed a trend toward an increased proportion of female
patients, increased frequency of basilar tip and internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm location, increased
hospital volume, and increased volume of patients treated by dual-trained neurosurgeons
over interventional radiologists. Patients were stratified by aneurysm location and statistically significant
differences were observed. Flow diversion devices were used with increasing frequency
when treating aneurysms arising from the proximal internal carotid artery (Odds ratio (OR)=1.24,
95% CI: 1.02-1.50; p = 0.03), and middle cerebral artery (OR=2.60, 95% CI: 1.38-4.88; p = 0.003).
Distal internal carotid artery aneurysm location came close to achieving statistical significance
(OR=1.3, 95% CI: 0.99-1.72; p = 0.063).

Conclusion::

In our single center experience at Houston Methodist Hospital, flow diversion devices
are being used more frequently for aneurysms arising from the proximal ICA, MCA, and likely distal
ICA (though this third location barely failed to achieve statistical significance.
The Effects on Angiogenesis of Relevant Inorganic Chemotherapeutics
Authors: Marzo Tiziano , La Mendola Diego
Published: November 2020

Angiogenesis is a key process allowing the formation of blood vessels. It is crucial for all the
tissues and organs, ensuring their function and growth. Angiogenesis is finely controlled by several
mechanisms involving complex interactions between pro- or antiangiogenic factors, and an imbalance
in this control chain may result in pathological conditions. Metals as copper, zinc and iron cover an
essential role in regulating angiogenesis, thus therapies having physiological metals as target have been
proposed. In addition, some complexes of heavier metal ions (e.g., Pt, Au, Ru) are currently used as
established or experimental anticancer agents targeting genomic or non-genomic targets. These molecules
may affect the angiogenic mechanisms determining different effects that have been only poorly
and non-systematically investigated so far. Accordingly, in this review article, we aim to recapitulate
the impact on the angiogenic process of some reference anticancer drugs, and how it is connected to the
overall pharmacological effects. In addition, we highlight how the activity of these drugs can be related
to the role of biological essential metal ions. Overall, this may allow a deeper description and understanding
of the antineoplastic activity of both approved or experimental metal complexes, providing
important insights for the synthesis of new inorganic drugs able to overcome resistance and recurrence
phenomena.
Xanthine Oxidase and Transforming Growth Factor Beta-activated Kinase 1: Potential Targets for Gout Intervention
Authors: Basnet Rajesh , Khadka Sandhya , Basnet Buddha Bahadur , Basnet Til Bahadur , Chidi Buddhi Bal , Nirala Sanjeev , Gupta Radheshyam , Sharma Bidur
Published: November 2020

Background:

Gout, inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of monosodium
urate crystals into affected joints and other tissues, has become one of the major health problems of
today's world. The main risk factor for gout is hyperuricemia, which may be caused by excessive
or insufficient excretion of uric acid. The incidence is usually in the age group of 30- 50 years, commonly
in males. In developed countries, the incidence of gout ranges from 1 to 4%. Despite effective
treatments, there has been an increase in the number of cases over the past few decades.

Objective:

In recent years, the development of targeted drugs in gout has made significant achievements.
The global impact of gout continues to increase, and as a result, the focus of disease-modifying
therapies remains elusive. In addition, the characterization of available instrumental compounds
is urgently needed to explore the use of novel selective and key protein-ligand interactions
for the effective treatment of gout. Xanthine oxidase (XO) is a key target in gout to consider the
use of XO inhibitors in patients with mild to moderate condition, however, the costs are high, and
no other direct progress has been made. Despite many XO inhibitors, a selective potent inhibitor
for XO is limited. Likewise, in recent years, attention has been focused on different strategies for
the discovery and development of new selectivity ligands against transforming growth factor beta-
activated kinase 1 (TAK1), a potential therapeutic target for gout. Therefore, the insight on human
XO structure and TAK1 provides a clue into protein-ligand interactions and provides the basis
for molecular modeling and structure-based drug design.

Conclusion:

In this review, we briefly introduce the clinical characteristics, the development of
crystal, inhibitors, and crystal structure of XO and TAK1 protein.
Extraction Procedures and Analytical Methods for the Determination of Methylene Blue, Rhodamine B and Crystal Violet - An Overview
Authors: Hakami Afnan A.H. , Wabaidur Saikh M. , Khan Moonis A. , AlOthman Zeid A. , Siddiqui Masoom R.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Dyes have been a blessing to the mankind owing to its numerous applications in several industries
ranging from the textile, food, pharmaceuticals, paper, leather and many more. Al the same time these dye poses a
problem for mankind if they exceed their limit. This review is all about the determination and extraction of dyes in
different matrices.

Introduction:

Methylene blue, rhodamine B and crystal violet are the three dyes discussed in this review article. All the
three discussed dyes are cationic in nature and poses a threat to the human health if not detected and proper remediation
step be taken if exceeding the limit.

Methods:

The review article mentioned different analytical methods and different extraction techniques involved in the
determination of dyes.

Results:

Almost all the analytical methods reported involve proper extraction of the analyte which too finds a place in this
review article. Spectrophotometric and electrochemical methods are cost effective method although the former is less
sensitive than the later. LC method and LC MS method are capable of simultaneously determining a number of dyes

Conclusion:

This review article also offers a compilation of different mobile phase combinations that has been used for
the quantitative analysis of these three dyes. The article also contains listing of different solvents for the liquid-liquid
extraction and different types of the sorbent materials used during solid phase extraction of the reviewed dyes.
Pitting Corrosion of Biomedical Titanium and Titanium Alloys: A Brief Review
Authors: Cui Yu-Wei , Chen Liang-Yu , Liu Xin-Xin
Published: November 2020

Thanks to their excellent corrosion resistance, superior mechanical properties and good
biocompatibility, titanium (Ti) and Ti alloys are extensively applied in biomedical fields. Pitting
corrosion is a critical consideration for the reliability of Ti and Ti alloys used in the human body.
Therefore, this article focuses on the pitting corrosion of Ti and Ti alloys, which introduces the
growth stages of pitting corrosion and its main influencing factors. Three stages, i.e. (1) breakdown
of passive film, (2) metastable pitting, and (3) propagation of pitting, are roughly divided to introduce
the pitting corrosion. As reviewed, corrosive environment, applied potential, temperature and
alloy compositions are the main factors affecting the pitting corrosion of Ti and Ti alloys. Moreover,
the pitting corrosion of different types Ti alloys are also reviewed to correlate the types of Ti alloys
and the main factors of pitting corrosion. Roughly speaking, β-type Ti alloys have the best pitting
corrosion resistance among the three types of Ti alloys.
Synthesis of Medicinally Important Quinazolines and Their Derivatives: A Review
Authors: Sharma Sulochana , Sharma Kailash , Pathak Sakshi , Kumar Mahendra , Sharma Praveen Kumar
Published: November 2020

The study of biodynamic heterosystems has proved to be the most attractive and useful for the development of potential drugs with superior properties and works effectively for the treatment of a variety of diseases, including pandemic ones. Out of the thousand biodynamic heterosystems, the quinazoline heterosystem is one that exhibits wide-ranging biological and pharmacological properties. Synthesis of potential medicinal material is comparatively challenging and needed enough time for clinical trials, testing, permissions for concerned authorities, production and supply. Therefore, researchers usually focused on novel methods incorporated with a high yield of previously approved chemical compounds. This present review article has focused on the synthesis of medicinally important quinazolines and their derivatives, which produce reaction products in less time with high yields, including more attention with eco-friendly green synthesis approaches incorporating multicomponent reactions (MCR), ionic liquids and microwave irradiations.
Study on the Interaction of 4'-Hydroxychalcones and their Mannich Derivatives with Calf Thymus DNA by TLC and Spectroscopic Methods, a DNA Cleavage Study
Authors: Rozmer Zsuzsanna , Bernardes Aline , Pérez Caridad N. , Perjési Pál
Published: November 2020

Background:

Phenolic Mannich bases derived from hydroxychalcones show remarkable cytotoxic potencies towards cancer cell lines. However, the exact mechanism of action is still partially uncleared.

Objective:

Interaction of two hydroxychalcones and their Mannich derivatives with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) has been investigated.

Methods:

Thin-layer chromatography and UV-Vis spectroscopic method were used for studying the interaction. The binding constant has been determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometric titration. The DNA cleavage activity of the compounds was studied by agarose gel electrophoresis.

Results:

Interaction of the compounds with ctDNA exhibited relatively high intrinsic binding constant (4-5x104 M-1). The results indicate existence of weak, non-covalent interactions between the investigated derivatives with ctDNA. Some compounds showed a slight DNA cleavage activity with pBR322.

Conclusion:

The obtained results provide additional knowledge on the previously documented cytotoxicity against tumor cell lines of the hydroxychalcones and their Mannich-derivatives.
Rare Genetic Variant of Distal Myopathy with Posterior Leg and Anterior Hand Involvement: Case Report
Authors: Almalki Daifallah , Ali Abdulrahman
Published: November 2020

Distal myopathies are a heterogeneous group of genetic muscle disorders characterized by weakness of distal muscle groups of the upper and lower extremities. The various types of distal myopathies can be clinically differentiated based on age at onset, pattern of muscle involvement, disease severity, and the mode of inheritance. We described a case of slowly progressive muscle weakness that involved one of the patients’ hand and posterior leg muscles. Her genetic study showed a rare variant that likely contributed to distal myopathy with posterior leg and anterior hand involvement (distal actin-binding domain [ABD]-filaminopathy). The disease is due to mutations on the actin-binding domain of the FLNC gene that encodes filamin C. This variant has been described only in one Italian family. This rare variant will expand our knowledge about the rare phenotype of distal myopathy with posterior leg and anterior hand involvement.
Structural Performance of Straw Block Assemblies under Compression Load
Authors: Njike Manette , Oyawa Walter O. , Abuodha Silvester O.
Published: November 2020

Background:

In recent decades, the enduring interest and continued development of straw bale as a walling material are based on its beneficial properties. Straw bale is a biomaterial that contributes greatly to carbon footprint reduction and offers excellent thermal insulation. It is proved that plastered straw bale assemblies have good mechanical properties and can be used for the construction of a single storey building. It is known that straw bale presents high displacement in the assemblies; thus, pre-compression is a major step that helps to push down straw bale so as to avoid future structural failure in the wall. There is no clue yet if this method is structurally beneficial than to stabilized single straw bales before assembling them into a structural panel.

Objective:

This paper presents the structural performance of straw block assemblies under compression loads.

Method:

Straw blocks and mortar were used to construct plastered and un-plastered wall panels, which were tested under uniformly distributed compression load till failure.

Results:

The results obtained show that plastered straw block assemblies can support at least 286 KN/m2, which is higher than the minimum slab load 18.25KN/m2, including imposed load for a residential house. In addition, the strength of plastered straw block assemblies plastered with cement-gum mortar, 0.3 N/ mm2is greater than the strength of a single storey building (0.19N/mm2). Furthermore, results indicate that un-plastered and plastered straw block assemblies perform better than un-plastered and plastered straw bale assemblies. Plastered straw block assemblies support up to 52KN while plastered straw bale assemblies support only 41.1KN.

Conclusion:

Under compression load, straw block assemblies have a load carrying capacity greater than the minimum slab load. Therefore, Straw block can be used for the construction of a single storey building.
Moral reasoning, whistleblowing intention, and audit judgement moderate the effect of ethical sensitivity on internal audit quality
Authors: Badera I Dewa Nyoman , Jati I Ketut
Published: November 2020

Empirical research reveals the effect of ethical sensitivity on internal audit quality but it is not always linear because of the role of several contingency factors. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of ethical sensitivity on internal audit quality. Meanwhile, the specific objective of this research is to determine the ability of contingency factors, such as: moral reasoning, whistleblowing intention, audit judgment moderates the effect of ethical sensitivity on the quality of internal audit. The study population was the internal auditor of PT Bank BUMN "X" Kanwil Bali-Nusra, then the research sample was determined using the saturated sample method. Furthermore, the collected data were tabulated and analyzed using the Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA) technique. The results of this study reveal that: (1) Ethical sensitivity has a positive and significant effect on internal audit quality. (2) Moral reasoning strengthens the positive effect of ethical sensitivity on internal audit quality. (3) Whistleblowing intention strengthens the positive effect of ethical sensitivity on internal audit quality. (4) Audit judgment strengthens the positive effect of ethical sensitivity on internal audit quality.
Evaluación de la resiliencia ecológica de los bosques tropicales secos: una aproximación multiescalar
Authors: Guerra Martínez Francisco , García Romero Arturo , Martínez Morales Miguel Angel
Published: November 2020

La resiliencia ecológica está integrada por dos componentes: resistencia y recuperación. En áreas de bosque tropical seco (BTS) donde se elimina la vegetación para establecer actividades agrícolas, la resistencia de la vegetación a este disturbio antrópico es irrelevante. Sin embargo, una vez que se abandonan los campos agrícolas, los sitios inician un proceso de recuperación de sus atributos ecológicos. El objetivo de este trabajo es proponer un marco metodológico para la evaluación de la resiliencia ecológica de los BTS mediante la combinación secuencial de la percepción remota y muestreos en campo, considerando el marco conceptual de la resiliencia y la ecología del BTS. Se plantea que la evaluación de la resiliencia ecológica del BTS tenga las siguientes aproximaciones: (1) la primera incluye un análisis de la recuperación de los atributos del BTS (e. g., cobertura, altura) a nivel regional y de paisaje, mediante insumos de percepción remota (e. g., imágenes de satelite) que muestren el cambio de cobertura y uso del suelo; (2) después, el análisis requiere abordar la recuperación desde una perspectiva a nivel local que implica el análisis de las variables ecológicas más relevantes como la estructura, la diversidad y la función ecológica; (3) finalmente, a partir de los insumos a nivel local, es posible retornar a niveles de trabajo menos detallados (e. g., regional y paisaje) y modelar los datos obtenidos en campo mediante índices de vegetación. Este planteamiento permite evaluar la resiliencia ecológica de un ecosistema y las causas que la promueven a diferentes escalas espaciales.
AKTIVITAS ANTIDIABETES METABOLIT SEKUNDER BAKTERI ENDOFIT ASAL KULIT KAYU MANIS (Cinnamomum burmannii)
Authors: Sarjono Purbowatiningrum Ria , Mahardika Hendra Dwipa Rifky , Mulyani Nies S. , Ngadiwiyana Ngadiwiyana , Prasetyawibowo Nor Basid Adi , Ismiyarto Ismiyarto
Published: November 2020

AbstrakDiabetes mellitus (DM) merupakan suatu kelainan metabolisme karbohidrat kronis serius yang memiliki dampak signifikan terhadap kesehatan seseorang. Salah satu metode pengobatan penyakit diabetes mellitus yang sedang berkembang saat ini adalah penghambatan aktivitas enzim α-glukosidase dengan suatu senyawa inhibitor α-glukosidase. Telah dilakukan penelitian tentang aktivitas antidiabetes metabolit sekunder bakteri endofit dari kulit kayu manis (Cinnamomum burmannii). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengisolasi bakteri endofit yang bersimbiosis dengan kulit kayu manis, mendapatkan data kemampuan inhibisi enzim α-glukosidase dari metabolit sekunder isolat bakteri endofit yang didapatkan, serta mendapatkan informasi mengenai kandungan kimia dari metabolit sekunder isolat bakteri endofit yang didapat. Aktivitas antidiabetes diuji menggunakan metode penghambatan enzim α-glukosidase. Hasil yang diperoleh pada penelitian ini adalah lima  isolat bakteri memiliki yang bentuk beragam yakni streptobacillus (isolat C1, isolat C4, dan isolat C5),diplobacillus (isolat C2), dan diplococcus (isolat C3). Kemampuan inhibisi α-glukosidase tertinggi dihasilkan oleh metabolit sekunder isolat C5 yakni sebesar 45,634% pada konsentrasi 100 ppm. Penapisan fitokimia pada penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa metabolit sekunder isolat C5 yang memiliki daya inhibisi tertinggi mengandung senyawa flavonoid, tanin, kuinon dan saponin. Kata kunci: Kulit kayu manis, bakteri endofit, metabolit sekunder, enzim α-glukosidase
PEMANFAATAN EKSTRAK DAUN Urtica dioica L. SEBAGAI ANTI-AGING ALAMI DALAM SEDIAAN KRIM
Authors: Maimunah Siti , Nasution Zuhairiah , Amila Amila
Published: November 2020

Di Indonesia, jelatang (Urtica dioica L.) umumnya hanya dianggap sebagai gulma. Daun jelatang mengandung senyawa metabolit sekunder yang bersifat antioksidan, diantaranya adalah flavonoid dan alkaloid sehingga berpotensi sebagai anti aging. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memformulasikan ekstrak daun jelatang dalam sediaan krim dan menguji efektivitas anti aging nya.  Penelitian diawali dengan membuat ekstrak daun jelatang  secara maserasi dengan pelarut etanol 96%, ekstrak dipekatkan dengan rotary evaporator. Ekstrak diformulasikan dalam sediaan krim dengan variasi konsentrasi 0,2% (B), 0,3% (C), 0,4% (D) dan 0,5% (E). Sebagai blanko (A) digunakan basis krim tanpa penambahan ekstrak, dan pembanding krim anti-aging yang beredar di pasaran (F). Selanjutnya dilakukan uji organoleptik, uji iritasi dan uji efektivitas anti aging sediaan. Pengamatan dilakukan selama 28 hari dengan mengaplikasikan sediaan krim ke kulit punggung tangan sukarelawan dan perubahan kondisi kulit diukur setiap minggu dengan alat skin analyzer. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ekstrak etanol daun Jelatang dapat diformulasikan dalam bentuk sediaan krim yang homogen, dengan pH 7, viskositas 28.000 cps, stabil dalam penyimpanan selama 28 hari, dan tidak mengiritasi kulit sukarelawan. Hasil analisis dengan skin analyzer menunjukkan perubahan kondisi kulit menjadi lebih baik yaitu kadar air bertambah, pori dan kerutan berkurang. Sediaan krim dengan konsentrasi 0,5% menunjukkan efektivitas anti aging terbaik.
SINTESIS HIDROGEN PEROKSIDA PADA PENGOLAHAN AIR KOLAM RENANG MENGGUNAKAN METODE ELEKTRODESINFEKTAN DENGAN ELEKTRODA TITANIUM DAN GRAFIT
Authors: Suyanta Suyanta , Utari Fika Deni
Published: November 2020

AbstrakPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui potensial dan waktu optimum proses elektrodesinfektan air kolam renangserta mengetahui kualitas air kolam renang berdasarkan parameter kadar hidrogen peroksida, pH dan TDS setelah proses elektrodesinfektan berdasarkan Peraturan Menteri Kesehatan RI No. 32/MENKES/PER/VI/2017.Optimasi potensial listrik menggunakan variasi 2, 4, 6, 8 dan 10 volt. Optimasi waktu yang digunakan adalah variasi 0,5; 1; 2; 3; dan 4 jam. Sampel dianalisis untuk mengetahui kadar hidrogen peroksida, pH dan TDS air kolam renang berturut-turut menggunakan metode spektrofotometri UV-Vis, pH meter dan TDS meter.Berdasarkan penelitian potensial optimumproses elektrodesinfektan sebesar 10 volt, sedangkan waktu optimum selama 4 jam dengan hidrogen peroksida yang dihasilkan sebesar 68,05 mg/L. Kualitas air kolam renang berdasarkan Peraturan Menteri Kesehatan RI No. 32/MENKES/PER/VI/2017 dikatakan baik karena memenuhi standar kualitas air kolam renang yaitu kadar hidrogrn peroksida kurang dari 0,3%, pH antara 7-7,8 serta nilai TDS air kolam renang turun dari 219 menjadi 216. Kata kunci: elektrodesinfektan, hidrogen peroksida, pH, TDS, elektroda titanium dan grafit. Abstract               This study aims to determine the level of hydrogen peroxide produced from electrodesinfection process in pool water samples and determine pool water quality based on the parameters of hydrogen peroxide, pH and TDS after electrodesinfection process based on RI Minister of Health Regulation No. 32/MENKES/PER/VI/2017.Electric potential optimization uses variations of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 volts. The time optimization used a variation of 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours. Determinaton of hydrogen peroxide levels, pH and TDS of pool water respectively using the spectrophotometer UV-Vis, pH meter, and TDS meter.The optimum potential and optimum time of electrodesinfection process at 10 volts and 4 hours with hydrogen peroxide up to 68,05 mg/L. Swimming pool water quality based on RI Minister of Health Regulation No. 32/MENKES/PER/VI/2017 are said to be good because the hydrogen peroxide level <0,3%, the pH of pool water between 7-7.8 and the TDS are decreased from 219 to 216. Keyword: electrodesinfection, hydrogen peroxide, pH, TDS, titanium and graphite electrodes.
County-Level Social Distancing and Policy Impact in the United States: A Dynamical Systems Model
Authors: McKee Kevin L , Crandell Ian C , Hanlon Alexandra L
Published: November 2020

Background

Social distancing and public policy have been crucial for minimizing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the United States. Publicly available, county-level time series data on mobility are derived from individual devices with global positioning systems, providing a variety of indices of social distancing behavior per day. Such indices allow a fine-grained approach to modeling public behavior during the pandemic. Previous studies of social distancing and policy have not accounted for the occurrence of pre-policy social distancing and other dynamics reflected in the long-term trajectories of public mobility data.

Objective

We propose a differential equation state-space model of county-level social distancing that accounts for distancing behavior leading up to the first official policies, equilibrium dynamics reflected in the long-term trajectories of mobility, and the specific impacts of four kinds of policy. The model is fit to each US county individually, producing a nationwide data set of novel estimated mobility indices.

Methods

A differential equation model was fit to three indicators of mobility for each of 3054 counties, with T=100 occasions per county of the following: distance traveled, visitations to key sites, and the log number of interpersonal encounters. The indicators were highly correlated and assumed to share common underlying latent trajectory, dynamics, and responses to policy. Maximum likelihood estimation with the Kalman-Bucy filter was used to estimate the model parameters. Bivariate distributional plots and descriptive statistics were used to examine the resulting county-level parameter estimates. The association of chronology with policy impact was also considered.

Results

Mobility dynamics show moderate correlations with two census covariates: population density (Spearman r ranging from 0.11 to 0.31) and median household income (Spearman r ranging from –0.03 to 0.39). Stay-at-home order effects were negatively correlated with both (r=–0.37 and r=–0.38, respectively), while the effects of the ban on all gatherings were positively correlated with both (r=0.51, r=0.39). Chronological ordering of policies was a moderate to strong determinant of their effect per county (Spearman r ranging from –0.12 to –0.56), with earlier policies accounting for most of the change in mobility, and later policies having little or no additional effect.

Conclusions

Chronological ordering, population density, and median household income were all associated with policy impact. The stay-at-home order and the ban on gatherings had the largest impacts on mobility on average. The model is implemented in a graphical online app for exploring county-level statistics and running counterfactual simulations. Future studies can incorporate the model-derived indices of social distancing and policy impacts as important social determinants of COVID-19 health outcomes.
Testing the Efficacy of a Multicomponent, Self-Guided, Smartphone-Based Meditation App: Three-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Goldberg Simon B , Imhoff-Smith Theodore , Bolt Daniel M , Wilson-Mendenhall Christine D , Dahl Cortland J , Davidson Richard J , Rosenkranz Melissa A
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

A growing number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest psychological benefits associated with meditation training delivered via mobile health. However, research in this area has primarily focused on mindfulness, only one of many meditative techniques.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of 2 versions of a self-guided, smartphone-based meditation app—the Healthy Minds Program (HMP)—which includes training in mindfulness (Awareness), along with practices designed to cultivate positive relationships (Connection) or insight into the nature of the self (Insight).

METHODS

A three-arm, fully remote RCT compared 8 weeks of one of 2 HMP conditions (Awareness+Connection and Awareness+Insight) with a waitlist control. Adults (≥18 years) without extensive previous meditation experience were eligible. The primary outcome was psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress). Secondary outcomes were social connection, empathy, compassion, self-reflection, insight, rumination, defusion, and mindfulness. Measures were completed at pretest, midtreatment, and posttest between October 2019 and April 2020. Longitudinal data were analyzed using intention-to-treat principles with maximum likelihood.

RESULTS

A total of 343 participants were randomized and 186 (54.2%) completed at least one posttest assessment. The majority (166/228, 72.8%) of those assigned to HMP conditions downloaded the app. The 2 HMP conditions did not differ from one another in terms of changes in any outcome. Relative to the waitlist control, the HMP conditions showed larger improvements in distress, social connectedness, mindfulness, and measures theoretically linked to insight training (d=–0.28 to 0.41; Ps≤.02), despite modest exposure to connection- and insight-related practice. The results were robust to some assumptions about nonrandom patterns of missing data. Improvements in distress were associated with days of use. Candidate mediators (social connection, insight, rumination, defusion, and mindfulness) and moderators (baseline rumination, defusion, and empathy) of changes in distress were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides initial evidence of efficacy for the HMP app in reducing distress and improving outcomes related to well-being, including social connectedness. Future studies should attempt to increase study retention and user engagement.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04139005; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04139005
LOTTERY GAMBLING TRADITION IN AMERICA AS PORTRAYED IN SHIRLEY JACKSON’S THE LOTTERY AND ITS IMPACTS ON THE LOTTERY DEVELOPMENT IN INDONESIA
Authors: Hutami Nestiani
Published: November 2020

Discussing about gambling practiced in western culture has always been a controversial phenomenon for there are abundant of both positive and negative effects. This phenomenon is portrayed in one of Shirley Jackson’s works which is interesting to notice that she who is known for her mysticism in most of her works put lottery gambling tradition into her iconic short story entitled “The Lottery”. However, although Jackson’s idea about performing lottery is quite different from American society in general, she tries to depict the value of lottery itself as one of the preserved traditions in the United States. The great development of lottery gambling in America assuredly contributes to the growth of this gambling around the world. It does not only give impacts on the life of American people, but also on the life of people of other countries, especially Indonesia.Keywords: lottery, tradition, controversy, value, development, impact.
THE SEAMY SIDE OF AMERICAN CAPITALISM IN JOHN STEINBECK'S THE GRAPES OF WRATH
Authors: Hasyim Fuad
Published: November 2020

This article is an attempt to study Steinbeck’s vision of the American system of capitalism during 1930’s as causing the greatest economic crisis in American history. The study particularly observes the growth of materialistic values in this era. The main discussion concerns the dramatic journey of Joad’s family toward California as reflected in The Grapes of Wrath.With an interdisciplinary approach, the study examines the novel to comprehend the author’s view about his social phenomena. This is a kind of qualitative research in which the researcher applied library research on The Grapes of Wrath. The data gathered from bibliographical sources was analyzed and written descriptively to describe the seamy side of capitalism in America.The result of this research shows that material success is not the human’s only orientation in his life. The great depression and tragic life of Oklahoma tenant farmers were viewed by the author as due to the impact of uncontrolled American Capitalism in 1930’s. The seamy sides of American Capitalism such as greed, selfishness, corruption, and consumptive behavior, etc. have been described by the author as source of the extensive destruction among American people.Keywords: capitalism, the great depression, materialism, dehumanization.
KENNEDY AND SOEKARNO IN POPULAR MOVIES: A TRANSNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Hernawati Mala
Published: November 2020

A leader is someone who is perceived to represent a community. In nations that apply democracy, where people can choose their president through general election, the chosen leader is certainly someone who can meet the majority’s taste and criteria. President Kennedy from the United States and President Sukarno from Indonesia are two examples of the popular leaders that have been adored by their people through generations. This research examines leadership representation of Kennedy and Sukarno in movies, how their characters are built on screen, and the significance of their appearance in movies. This research employs Representation Theory from Stuart Hall combined with Transnational Theory of New American Studies. This research is able to explain the connection between popular fiction and the social and political phenomena in both countries, the US and Indonesia, in the time before the general election. Besides, this research finds shared values and ideology in Kennedy’s and Sukarno’s leadership represented in movies. Keywords: leadership, movies, representation, ideology, transnational
GENDER WAGE DISPARITY IN THE UNITED STATES: SOCIO-CULTURAL CONTEXT V. LEGISLATIONS
Authors: Utami Agnes Nora Eko Wahyu
Published: November 2020

This study aimed at investigating the contributing factors to the persistence of gender pay disparity in American workforce despite decades of the enactment of progressive, federal legislations concerning on women’s wage. This study employed sociological approach and utilized qualitative research to achieve its predetermined objectives. Utilizing library research, data were gathered and analyzed using gender theory, particularly the theory of devaluation of women’s work. The results of this study indicated that prevalent American cultural values on gender roles and pay secrecy interfere with the federal legislations concerning on women’s wage. Meaning to say, the socio-cultural context where the legislations are applied and enforced seems to be, in some ways, contradictory to the legislations. The data of this study showed that in the workplace, cultural values on gender roles affected the decisions in hiring and during the employment, which further resulted in gender discriminatory practices (in general) and gender wage discrimination (in specific). Meanwhile, the prevalence of cultural values of not talking about salary reinforced employer’s policy against salary disclosure (PSC rules), which led to the hindrance of wage transparency that is in fact, in contradictory to what the legislations suggested. As a conclusion, gender wage disparity could not be cured solely with the enactment of federal legislations. Evolutionary changes in cultural values of the society are also significant in eliminating the gender wage disparity in American workforce.Keywords: gender wage disparity, socio-cultural context, cultural values, federal legislations, pay secrecy
WOMEN ISSUES IN HILLARY CLINTON’S SPEECHES
Authors: Leba Elsa Emiria
Published: November 2020

Women’s rights to contribute freely in many life spheres are now granted by law. Yet, Hillary Clinton as a U.S. prominent politician still discusses about women’s issues in her speeches. This article discusses about Hillary’s views, types, and solutions of women’s issues that are found in her political speeches from the year 2007 until 2013.This research is conducted under American Studies applying an interdisciplinary approach, which uses anthropology, sociology, and historical-biographical disciplines, as well as reconciliation of tenses approach that bridges past, present, and future. The data are selected based on purposeful sampling with maximum variation sampling is used as the approach to show various perspectives about women’s issues in Hillary’s speeches.The research finds that Hillary considers it important to overcome women’s issues in all life spheres; education, economy, health, politics, and social that emerge due to the patriarchal system. It also finds that Hillary regards all issues in those spheres as interconnected thus they have to be dealt simultaneously. Hillary expects all society members, men and women, to be involved in overcoming those issues since women’s empowerment supports human advancement as well.Keywords: Hillary Clinton, women issues, women empowerment.
SERIAL KILLER IN POPULAR LITERATURE: A FORMULA ANALYSIS OF HANNIBAL LECTER SERIES
Authors: Endah Dian Nur
Published: November 2020

Using textual analysis, this research attempts to find out the formula of Hannibal Lecter novels. These formula is analyzed and studied to acquire convention and invention in Hannibal Lecter characterization compared to other serial killer fictions. These two aspects are the foremost things that enable Hannibal Lecter novel series become acceptable and popular in American society. The result of this research is that there are some aspects in Hannibal Lecter characterization that are defined as convention of serial killer genre; 1) depiction of serial killer as white male, 2) depiction of serial killer as being highly intelligent and strong. Meanwhile, aspects that show invention of serial killer characerization are; 1) Depiction of serial killer as person who commits killing to bad people, 2) Performing cannibalism practice as civilized action, 3) Being woman lover, not misogynist, and 4) Being sociable man.Keywords: serial killer, formula, convention, invention, crimes
Formulating Black Womanhood: A Study on Beyoncé’s Hip-Hop Song Lyrics in Beyoncé Platinum Edition Album
Authors: Larasati Ika Ayu
Published: November 2020

This article aims at understanding the Black womanhood concept through Hip-Hop song lyrics, since song lyrics are not only a part of art but also a media to express people’s feelings, education, therapy and entertainment. This article also helps the readers to understand that sexuality portrayed in Hip-Hop song lyrics stands for something and has a function because music is related to the social background, message, function, and effect generated from the artwork.The qualitative method and interdisciplinary approach are used in conducting this article, which involves the literature, history, culture, sociology, and to enhance the understanding of multi-ethnic America, especially about Black womanhood. The article starts with introduction, a discussion about African American culture in general. To produce an up to date writing, the article choses the recent popular singer, Beyonce. In finding Black womanhood concepts in Beyonce’s lyrics. One thing that also needs to be highlighted is Black women’s sexuality.The findings are about Black womanhood from Beyonce’s standpoint, such as the Black woman’s self-definition, the sisterhood, the relationship between mother and daughter, and the relationship with Black men. In addition, since it highlights the Black woman’s sexuality in Hip-Hop that is based on Beyonce’s songs, it indicates that recently Black women began to realize that they have power over their own body.Keywords: Black womanhood, sexuality, Hip-Hop music, Lyrics
AMERICAN AND INDONESIAN SITCOMS: A TRANSNATIONAL ANALYSIS ON “FRIENDS” AND INDONESIAN SITCOMS
Authors: Pramadya Teguh Puja
Published: November 2020

The fact that Indonesia adopts many programs from American popular culture, especially the situation comedy format, makes reruns and reduplications at the national level, and makes them into primetime programs on most of the private television at stations demonstrates the strength of American cultural influence in Indonesia. Although, there are differences and adjustments in some parts of the program, modifying to the culture and customs of the people of Indonesia. The question arises, whether the entertainment producers in Indonesia nowadays were deliberately imitating and duplicating some imported variety and comedy format for the sake of popularity in public television in Indonesia or whether the traditional format of comedy in Indonesia is now being replaced with variety and comedy formats imported from America.This study is carried out in the framework of American Studies. To carry out the analysis, the writer made use of the grounded research and comparative study approach and Stuart Hall's theory of representation, to see the scope for negotiation and opposition on the part of the audience as an active part of the media consumption and how audience members make meanings and understand reality through their use of cultural symbols in both print and visual media. The object of the study is limited to the representation in Friends, as an example of an American sitcom, and to the representation in four Indonesian sitcoms, namely Keluarga Masa Kini, Tetangga Masa Gitu, Saya Terima Nikahnya and The East.The findings of selected episodes in Friends and Indonesian sitcoms, indicate some similarities and differences towards the trends that sitcoms have used. It is likely that American and Indonesian sitcoms use almost the same conventions of sitcom narrative, but, they also show some differences towards the content of the show, several changes and transformations in the narrative structures can be seen, especially in terms of the locality of each sitcom in depicting the values from the social and cultural construction where the sitcom is made. Another important thing to be taken into account is the way each society has a different construction of gender roles and sexuality, family values and so on, that lead to a different cultural product although they use and share the same conventions and characteristics of the sitcom.Keywords: sitcom, representation, social construction, gender, family
TRACKING DOWNS CHRISTIAN DIOR IN AMERICAN POST-WWII FASHION UNTIL EARLY 1950s
Authors: Haris Nurina Aulia
Published: November 2020

This article studied the accomplishment of Christian Dior during his business venture in American market by using his autobiography as the main source of the research and qualitative research used as the method of study. Graves’s thought on Consumer Behavior are used as the approach of study under the umbrella of Transnational American Studies.The success of Dior in the American market is not solely because of his dresses but there are other factors that support the success of his business especially the post-World War II situation where people need something new that can make them remember the times before the war, in addition, the promotion and assessment of fashion experts through fashion and lifestyle magazines also affect people's assessment of Dior's dresses and make them affected to own his collections. Based on the theory described by Graves, people tendency to imitate others is capable to influence one's expenses and this can be seen from the phenomena occurring in American society toward Dior’s works.Concisely, the result of this research shows that the success of Dior in American market happened because of 2 things. First is the nature of human being that loves beauty, neatness, and things which make them happy. Second is the timing of his debut which was post war era where people were researching the pride they lost during the war caused by the limitation applied by the government and the condition itself therefore when Dior came with his collections they saw it as if it was their way to get back their pride as by wearing Dior’s collection it can show their social status. Keywords: Christian Dior, Fashion, Societies, World War II
Backpacking’s Run-In with McDonaldization Theory
Authors: Amalia Rizky
Published: November 2020

Vacation, unconsciously, has been one of the basic needs in human’s life. It provides a break from the usual routine activity which somehow can trap the doer into an autopilot mode; leaving them to encounter a seemingly never ending task. Thus, vacation’s purpose is to experience a different setup that is not usually found in everyday lives. This study focuses on how vacation has been set up in such a way that violates its initial purpose. Using the theory of McDonaldization proposed by George Ritzer, the discussion will flow into breaking down four concepts of the theory to be matched with the premise of backpacking; in which suggests a possibility of deconstructing vacation concept that is familiar in modern setting. However, with the development of era, backpacking slowly transforms into following the concept of McDonaldization in tourism, giving a glimpse on how modernity has touched every aspect of human’s life and making what was once a breakthrough in tourism world a cliché that falls through some anticipated pattern. Keywords: Backpacking, McDonaldization, Vacation
MAGISTERIUM AS THE ENEMY OF LIBERAL THOUGHTS IN PHILLIP PULLMAN’S NORTHERN LIGHTS
Authors: Bakri Nabil
Published: November 2020

Pullman’s Northern Lights is considered by many as a representation of negative criticism toward religion, especially Christianity, for its depictions of the Magisterium. Many researches aim to unravel Pullman’s criticism and prove whether or not the novel is about ‘killing God’, resulting in the general perception that Northern Lights is a condemnation of religion.  By comparing the novel to the history of Medieval Church and the power of Magisterium to the Bible, this analysis means to prove whether or not the criticism is addressed to religion and to figure out who really ‘kills God’ that becomes the essential point of Pullman’s criticism in the novel. Using Marxism and its relation to power abuse, this analysis attempts to relate Pullman’s Magisterium to the real Magisterium and how the institution gains its power from God as mentioned in the holy Bible. Magisterium in Northern Lights does not represent God’s will. It serves instead as a critic of who kills God and therefore, it is not a form of literature to condemn religion.Keywords: magisterium; medieval church; scripture; fantasy; power abuse