bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Health Problems and Initiation of E-cigarette and Combustible Cigarette Use
Authors: Riehm Kira E. , Young Andrea S. , Feder Kenneth A. , Krawczyk Noa , Tormohlen Kayla N. , Pacek Lauren R. , Mojtabai Ramin , Crum Rosa M.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

During adolescence, mental health problems may increase the risk of initiating combustible cigarette use. However, it is unknown if this association extends to electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). We examined whether internalizing and externalizing problems were associated with initiation of e-cigarette, combustible cigarette, and dual-product use among adolescents.

METHODS:

Participants were drawn from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, a nationally representative longitudinal study of US adolescents followed from 2013 to 2015. The study sample included 7702 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years who at baseline reported no lifetime use of tobacco products. We examined the respective associations between baseline internalizing and externalizing problems and initiating use of e-cigarettes, combustible cigarettes, or both at 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS:

Compared with adolescents with low externalizing problems, adolescents with high externalizing problems were significantly more likely to initiate use of e-cigarettes (adjusted relative risk ratio [aRRR] = 2.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.76–4.40), combustible cigarettes (aRRR = 5.59; 95% CI: 2.63–11.90), and both products (aRRR = 2.23; 95% CI: 1.15–4.31). Adolescents with high internalizing problems were at increased risk of initiating use of e-cigarettes (aRRR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.12–2.33) but not combustible cigarettes or both products.

CONCLUSIONS:

Mental health problems are associated with increased risk for initiating e-cigarette, combustible cigarette, and dual-product use in adolescence. This association is more consistent for externalizing problems than internalizing problems. Addressing mental health problems could be a promising target for preventing initiation of nicotine- and/or tobacco-product use by adolescents.
CÁC GIẢI PHÁP ỔN ĐỊNH CỬA ĐẦM PHÁ VEN BIỂN MIỀN TRUNG VIỆT NAM
Authors: Thanh Tran Duc , Vinh Vu Duy , Nhon Dang Hoai , Vuong Bui Van
Published: June 2019

Of the 14 inlets belonging to 12 coastal lagoons in the coastal zone of Central Vietnam, the unstable group consists of 4 inlets; the less stable group comprises 4 inlets and the relatively stable group has 6 inlets. For the feasibility and effectiveness, the constructions of stabilizing lagoonal inlets must be multi-purpose and multi-benefit, such as maintenance of ecosystems, opening to the sea for ships and boats, flood drainage and pollution limitation. They need to be combined with other development activities to reduce costs and increase benefits, for example in conjunction with seaports, fishing harbours, typhoon shelters and tourism... Solutions to stabilise the lagoonal inlets consist of 5 groups: Constructing groins for control of inlets; dredging lagoonal inlets and bottom; preventing coastal erosion outside the lagoons; stabilizing the lagoon banks and the surrounding sandy areas; regulating water supplies in the catchments into the lagoons. Depending on the natural conditions and degrees of human impact, the priority solution has been proposed for each lagoonal inlet.
Sản lượng khai thác của nghề lưới kéo ở Kiên Giang năm 2014 - 2015
Authors: Hai Nguyen Van
Published: June 2019

In periods from July 2014 to June 2015, the Research Institute for Marine Fisheries collected data about yield from catch landing of the trawl fisheries in Kien Giang province. Total yield was calculated by Stamatopoulos Constantine’s method in 2002. The results indicated that the total yield of trawls in Kien Giang province was about 592.5 thousand tons one year. In which, the pair trawl’s yield was 84%, the otter trawl’s yield was 16%. The yield structure was different between pair trawl and otter trawl. Main yield components of pair trawl were trashfish and anchovy groups; and those of otter trawl were trashfish, mixed fish and mixed shrimp.
Infrastructure value maximisation: finance and insurance appraisal
Authors: Goodfellow-Smith Michael E , Rogers Christopher D F , Tight Miles R
Published: June 2019

The scale of projected infrastructure financing in the UK and internationally is enormous, while this infrastructure’s conception, design, procurement and construction will necessarily have a major impact on short-term and long-term sustainable development. This paper seeks to establish methods of finance and insurance selection that facilitate sustainable design and construction techniques to improve the liveability, sustainability and resilience of infrastructure and cities. Furthermore, it establishes criteria for the financing and insurance of infrastructure, to enable selection of organisations providing products and services that have sustainability at the heart of their operations and by extension mandate the retention of sustainability at the core of any infrastructure programme. This paper introduces the concept of ‘restorative infrastructure’ in city transformation and demonstrates that substantial savings are possible compared with the current practice with the introduction of improved financial and insurance selection.
Estilos de aprendizagem, desempenho acadêmico e avaliação docente
Authors: Lizote Suzete Antonieta , Alves Claudia Ribeiro , Teston Sayonara de Fátima , Olm Jaqueline Werner
Published: June 2019

O entendimento dos estilos de aprendizagem se torna necessário para identificar como os discentes se concentram, absorvem e transformam as informações recebidas em conhecimento. Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar a relação entre os estilos de aprendizagem com o desempenho acadêmico em estudantes de Ciências Contábeis e com a avalição sobre os docentes. O material para realizar o estudo descritivo e relacional com abordagem quantitativa foi obtido com questionários de autopreenchimento junto a 257 estudantes de todos os períodos do curso de Ciências Contábeis de uma universidade comunitária do Sul do Brasil. Os métodos estatísticos usados foram teste t de Student, análise de variância e análise de correlação. Os resultados mostraram a predominância do estilo auditivo (37,4%), seguido do cinestésico (23,7%) no modelo Vark, e do convergente (43,6%), seguido do assimilador (40,1%) no modelo de Kolb (1984), e os menos representados foram, respectivamente para esses dois modelos, o visual (5,1%) e o divergente (2,7%). Os estilos com menores desempenhos para o curso como um todo foi o divergente, que teve uma nota média dos alunos de 7,28 e o acomodador, com 7,47. A avaliação que os alunos fazem dos professores que ministram as disciplinas em que estão matriculados indica que os períodos com menores desempenhos avaliam melhor os docentes e vice-versa. Por fim, a autoavaliação que os professores fazem é estatisticamente maior que a feita pelos alunos em relação às práticas docentes, entretanto, as diferenças diminuem na medida em que se analisam os dados dos últimos períodos.
Aproximación descriptiva al fenómeno del suicidio en el estado de Mérida, Venezuela
Authors: Crespo Freddy
Published: June 2019

El presente estudio es una aproximación descriptiva al suicidio en el estado de Mérida, Venezuela, con el objetivo de exponer y alertar sobre el comportamiento de este fenómeno y su tendencia diferenciada con las tasas de los demás estados en el lapso 1995-2012. Empleando una metodología complementaria, se expone la tendencia de suicidios a escala nacional y su diferenciación entre los diferentes estados. Igualmente, se efectuaron entrevistas en profundidad a los familiares de las personas suicidas. Los resultados demuestran que la tasa de suicidio de Mérida tiene un comportamiento diferente a la tendencia nacional y de los demás estados, pues constituye la más alta en el lapso en estudio. Por otro lado, las entrevistas muestran una desestructuración de la relación entre medios y metas sociales debido a la coyuntura por la que atraviesa el país, lo cual conlleva a la acumulación de tensión del individuo. La principal conclusión es que esta situación está generando nuevas morfologías para la expresión de la conducta violenta, entre las que el suicidio es una acción muy probable.

Abstract

The present study is a descriptive approximation to suicide in Merida, Venezuela, with the objective of exposing and alerting about the behavior of this phenomenon and its differentiated tendency with the rates of the other states of Venezuela in the period 1995-2012. Using a complementary methodology, the national suicide trend and its differentiation between the different states is exposed. Likewise, in-depth interviews were conducted with the relatives of the suicidal persons in the state. The results show that Merida's suicide rate behaves differently from the national trend and that of the other states, since it is the highest in the period under study. On the other hand, the interviews show a destructuring of the relationship between means and social goals due to the situation that the country is going through, which leads to the accumulation of tension of the individual. The main conclusion is that this situation is generating new morphologies for the expression of violent behavior, among which suicide is a very probable action.
Justicia restaurativa y reintegración social: retos procedimentales y estructurales
Authors: Vázquez Martínez Alejandro Ernesto , Bazán Mayagoitia Norma Deirdré
Published: June 2019

El artículo tiene como propósitos identificar y examinar los principales retos estructurales y procedimentales de la reintegración social para adolescentes en México, así como analizar la posible transformación del actual sistema de justicia para adolescentes, de carácter positivista, punitivo y sustentado en prácticas penitenciarias violatorias de los derechos humanos, en un sistema de justicia que sane y restaure las omisiones sociales e institucionales, al igual que las condiciones de exclusión y marginación que históricamente han caracterizado a los/las adolescentes en conflicto con la ley. Para ello, se utiliza el método etnográfico, por medio de observación participante, entrevistas y grupos focales con asociaciones civiles vinculadas al proceso de reintegración. El marco teórico se basa en la teoría crítica, fundamentalmente criminológica. Se concluye que, si bien la justicia restaurativa ha sido incorporada declarativamente a los mecanismos penitenciarios, el núcleo positivista del sistema penal todavía produce y permite violaciones a los derechos humanos, aun con la labor que desarrollan asociaciones civiles, centrada en la dimensión fundamental de la justicia restaurativa: el vínculo social entre jóvenes y comunidad.    

 Abstract

The purpose of this article is to identify and examine the main structural and procedural challenges of social reintegration for adolescents in Mexico, as well as to analyze the possible transformation of the current justice system for adolescents (which is positivist, punitive and sustained in penitentiary practices that violate human rights), into a justice system that heals and restores social and institutional omissions, and also the conditions of exclusion and marginalization that historically have characterized adolescents in conflict with the law. For such purposes, the ethnographic method is used, through interviews and focus groups with organizations of civil society. The theoretical framework is based on critical theory, fundamentally criminological. It is concluded that, although restorative justice has been incorporated declaratively into penitentiary mechanisms, the positivist nucleus of the penal system still produces and allows violations of human rights, even with the work developed by civil associations focused on the fundamental dimension of restorative justice: the social bond between the youth and the community.
Policies and scenarios for Cape Town’s energy future: Options for sustainable city energy development
Authors: Winkler H , Borchers M , Hughes A , Visagie E , Heinrich G
Published: June 2019

This study examines a set of energy policy interventions, which can make a major contribution to sustainable development for the City of Cape Town – economically, environmentally and socially. Major energy savings can be made from modal shifts in the transport sector, and with efficient lighting. The savings make a contribution to economic development, by freeing up resources. The savings from energy efficiency also have important social benefits in energy savings, reducing energy bills for poor households. From an environmental point of view, implementing the city’s renewable energy target will have significant costs, but these can be partly off-set by selling carbon credits through the Clean Development Mechanism, and will result in indirect health benefits. Targeted interventions can reduce local air pollution, and help Cape Town become a leader in addressing greenhouse gas emissions. Apart from examining the social, economic and environmental dimensions of each policy, this paper compares policies to one another. Of particular interest for sustainable energy development are those policies which are viable in terms of costs, social benefits and the environment. Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) in residential, commercial and government sectors and heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) in commerce and government sectors stand out as policies that have benefits from every angle. The paper builds on previous work done on the ‘state of energy’ for Cape Town and develops a tool that can paint a picture of what might happen to energy in the future. Using the Long-Range Energy Alternatives Planning (LEAP) modelling tool, a set of energy policies have been simulated.
Household energy use: a comparison of household energy consumption and expenditure across three provinces
Authors: Aitken R.
Published: June 2019

This paper details and contrasts the patterns of household energy consumption from three sample groups across three provinces in South Africa. The three samples were selected from unelectrified areas in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, North West and the Eastern Cape. The paper shows the range of energy sources and carriers as well as the most prominent and common applications. Understand-ing patterns of household energy consumption and expenditure, as well as the energy burden of rural households can be used to shape and inform ener-gy interventions within these regions for both public and private sector concerns.
An analysis of a thermal power plant working on a Rankine cycle: A theoretical investigation
Authors: Kapooria R.K. , Kumar S. , Kasana K.S.
Published: June 2019

Today, most of the electricity produced throughout the world is from steam power plants. However, electricity is being produced by some other power generation sources such as hydropower, gas power, bio-gas power, solar cells, etc. One newly devel-oped method of electricity generation is the Magneto hydro dynamic power plant. This paper deals with steam cycles used in power plants. Thermodynamic analysis of the Rankine cycle has been undertaken to enhance the efficiency and reli-ability of steam power plants. The thermodynamic deviations resulting in non-ideal or irreversible func-tioning of various steam power plant components have been identified. A comparative study between the Carnot cycle and Rankine cycle efficiency has been analyzed resulting in the introduction of regen-eration in the Rankine cycle. Factors affecting effi-ciency of the Rankine cycle have been identified and analyzed for improved working of thermal power plants.
Potential transportation measures to reduce South Africa’s dependency on crude oil
Authors: Vanderschuren M. , Jobanputra R. , Lane T.
Published: June 2019

Transportation, including the movement of people and freight, accounts for over 60% of all oil con-sumed globally, and the world’s transportation sys-tems are over 90% dependent on oil and oil by-products. Oil represents the single largest item on South Africa’s import account. Gasoline and diesel fuels, which are almost exclusively used for trans-portation services, form a significant proportion of these imports.Globally, transport systems have been built on an over-reliance on cheap oil, allowing towns, cities and the movement of people and goods to be designed around the automobile. People in most South African cities require the use of motorised transport in order to travel efficiently, as public transport systems either do not exist, are too sparse or are difficult to use in many areas. The predicted depletion of oil and thus rising prices will significantly affect the choice of trans-portation systems and their use, as well as increase South Africa’s vulnerability to ‘oil shocks’. Transport planning policies must, therefore, prepare for the likelihood of such shocks and ameliorate them via policy options. A precautionary approach needs to be adopted to reduce our dependency on oil. This paper addresses the global shift towards the reduction of transport’s dependency on, or reduc-tion in, oil consumption and describes potential ways in which South Africa can reduce its oil dependency along with an indication of a timeframe for implementation.
Evaluating the costs and achievable benefits of extending technologies for uneconomical coal resources in South Africa: the case of underground coal gasification
Authors: Zieleniewski M. , Brent A.C.
Published: June 2019

As the South African economy relies heavily on its coal resources, these resources should be utilised and managed in the best possible manner. Underground coal gasification (UCG) is one of the leading technologies used where conventional min-ing techniques are uneconomical. UCG delivers gas suitable for synthesis, production of fuels and elec-tricity, or for home usage. The method is perceived as being environmentally friendly and safer than traditional mining. The study summarised in this paper was conducted so as to create a simple model that would allow for the evaluation of UCG process-related costs versus expected benefits in a wider context and under different circumstances. The parameters of the model are: feasibility definition, i.e. maximum possible gas calorific value, based on geological surveys and gasification agents for a pre-defined need; direct process-related costs that are derived from the expected capital and operational expenditures and compared to the value and vol-ume of the gas produced; and assessment of exter-nality costs, i.e. the indirect economic value of envi-ronmental, safety and health benefits. The external-ities concept should encourage governmental agen-cies to consider further investment in UCG technol-ogy as a vehicle for delivering, potentially, high sav-ings in terms of the reduction in the costs of envi-ronmental damage resulting from gaseous emis-sions into the atmosphere, specifically expenditure on national health.
Performance analysis for flat plate collector with and without porous media
Authors: Yousef B.A.A. , Adam N.M.
Published: June 2019

The present work involves a theoretical study to investigate the effect of mass flow rate, flow channel depth and collector length on the system thermal performance and pressure drop through the collec-tor with and without porous medium. The solution procedure is performed for flat plate collector in sin-gle and double flow mode. The analysis of the results at the same configuration and parameters shows that the system thermal efficiency increases by 10-12% in double flow mode than single flow due to the increased of heat removal, and increase by 8% after using porous medium in the lower channel as a result of the increase of heat transfer area. At the same time the pressure drop will be increased. All collectors show improved efficiency obtained when the collector operates at relatively high flow rates, and at relatively low collector tem-perature rise since the collector losses will be less in low temperature difference.
Vibration Vest - Pilot Study with Participants with Reduced Periphal Vision v1
Authors: Brown Ffion , Sutton Janice , M Yuen Ho , Green Dylan , Van Dorn Spencer , Braun Terry , J. Cree Angela , R. Russell Stephen , J. Lotery Andrew
Published: June 2019

Many individuals with advanced glaucoma and retinal dystrophies have functional difficulty due to a loss of their peripheral vision. These individuals may have sufficient central vision to read and perform visual tasks in a controlled situation, but are often unable to function in a cluttered, unstructured or chaotic environment (i.e. a normal social situation). This is because they lack the ability to be visually alerted to an incentive or threat outside the narrowed region of their central vision. Some groups of these patients, for example those with a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa, also experience nyctalopia (night blindness) meaning that time of day can alter their functional ability. Currently, there are limited options to aid these patients. Intel Corporation has developed a computer-based assistive device that may be useful for these individuals. Intel has recently made the design details and software available via the internet. The device consists of a vest or shirt with an attached depth-sensing camera, a computer and vibration transducers (6 on the vest and one on each foot). The transducers vibrate to alert the wearer to objects that are approaching them, or if they are walking, alert them to objects that they may be approaching. We propose to test subjects wearing the device to determine its usefulness. This will consist of participants with known reduced peripheral vision walking through simple maze scenarios first using their normal visual aid (if required) and then wearing the vibration vest. Variations of the maze will be carried out in both bright and dim lighting, equalling four mazes per subject. Each subject will also answer two short questionnaires, one before and one after using the device, to help determine the possible benefits and drawbacks of the device. The results will then be analysed to conclude whether an electronic device such as this could be useful to patients with reduced peripheral vision.
Prepare NGM plates for nematode, with peptone, without fungizone v1
Authors: Research UK / Wellcome Gurdon Institute media kitchen Cancer
Published: June 2019

Prepare NGM plates for nematodes, with peptone, without fungizone
La Performance y los Laboratorios de la Utopía: Oskar Schlemmer y la Creación de la Noción de Performance
Authors: Navarro Segura Maria Isabel (Maisa) , Camerino Parra Angélica
Published: June 2019

The main emphasis of the article is on the origins of performative manifestations until they reached a conscious conceptual development with repercussions on contemporary artistic practices. Here we will see how the figure of Oskar Schlemmer, who had started as an artist in the visual arts,was gradually metamorphosed until concreting performative and action experimentations that carried out representative expressions of the utopian laboratories within the vanguards of the first half of the twentieth century; thus contributing to the creation of the notion of performances with a wideand rich possibility of using materials and with a conceptual depth of great depth in constant relation with the most groundbreaking philosophical currents of the time. In addition, he processed and carried out, alone or with the collaboration of several artists, all the known modalities of creative expressions that occurred in parallel with the technological development. And to this was added the research component on the body, human syche, biocentrism, color, materials, music, lighting and prosthetics, among otherpoints of interest, and on which will delve into the present work.
Relations on Taxes Imposition as General Regulatory Tax Relations
Authors: Yadrikhinskiy S. A.
Published: June 2019

In the paper the author attempts to define the legal nature of relations regarding establishment and introduction of taxes and fees in the Russian Federation. The author refutes the traditional ideas about the absolute model of such legal relations, as the alleged circle of obligated persons does not have the potential to prevent implementation of the sovereign right of the authorized party. It is concluded that relations concerning the imposition of taxes amount to general regulatory relations with broader legal relations, where the right of the authorized person corresponds to the legal status manifesting connectedness, dependence of the opposing subject as the actions of the authorized entity inevitably affect his or her interest. The author identifies the subjects (participants) in such relations and analyzes the peculiarity of their interaction that is manifested in a bilateral (mutual) legal relationship. The paper demonstrates the rights-obligations status of the participants of such relations through direct and reverse legal relations. The State acts not only as a holder of power, but also as the main guarantor of the rights and legitimate interests of all citizens. The article scrutinizes the content of the legitimate interest of the taxpayer based on the fundamental principles of tax law and determining the lawmaker’s behavior.

Based on the analysis of the legal relationship between a public law entity and the taxpayer, the author outlines the boundaries of discretionary powers and criteria of discretion of the legislator in the process of imposition of taxes. The tools of reasonable deterrence of fiscal appetite include legal requirements, as well as constitutional and legal justification of legislative decisions.

The author emphasizes the importance of active involvement of the taxpayer in the process of regulatory control of legislative provisions.
Form of Government in Countries around the World: Classification Problems and their Possible Solutions
Authors: Nechkin A. V.
Published: June 2019

The main purpose of the paper is to develop a unified classification of the states of the world according to the form of government. The author considers the existing approaches, and the classification of the world states in the form of government in the theory and practice of state-building.

Further, the author gives examples of states whose forms of government cannot be classified within the framework of traditional approaches. To solve this problem of classification, the author proposes, in addition to the typical (traditional) forms of government — monarchy and republic, to allocate atypical forms of government — a monarchy with a republican element and a republic with a monarchical element, and within the republican form of government, in addition to the traditional (classical) varieties — presidential, parliamentary and semi-presidential republics. It is proposed to allocate non-traditional (non-classical) varieties — hybrid, superpresidential, socialist and Islamic. In addition, the author distinguishes the mixed republic in two varieties (semipresidential and semi-parliamentary republics) as a kind of watershed between traditional and non-traditional varieties of the republican form of government. Within the framework of the paper, the author also touches upon the question of correlation of the categories «form of government», «state and political regime», concluding that they are independent but interrelated categories. In conclusion, the author summarizes the findings of the study and, for clarity, offers a scheme of his own approach to the classification of the States of the world in the form of government.
REC.: Zaratustrianizm, czyli kwestia interpretacji – refleksje na marginesie książki: Marta Jaworek, Mit dziecka – Korczak – Nietzsche – Zaratustra, Warszawa: Wydawnictwo SBP, 2016, ss. 196
Authors: Janusz-Lorkowska Monika
Published: June 2019

 

 
Don Quijote en la literatura infantil y juvenil serbia
Authors: Stojanović Jasna
Published: June 2019

El Quijote viene adaptándose en Serbia para uso juvenil/infantil desde 1882. A partir de este momento, las versiones se están multiplicando, principalmente traducidas del francés, alemán y ruso (una). Un número elevado de estos libros se publica en los años 30 del siglo XX (por razones que iremos explicando) y sigue publicándose después de 1945, aunque con otro material ilustrativo. Presentamos estas adaptaciones en detalle, examinando su influencia en la vida cultural y literaria serbia, y subrayamos la necesidad de nuevos Quijotitos a la altura del siglo XXI.
Sustainable practices in the bed and breakfast industry
Authors: Hugo Nichole , Plunkett Daniel
Published: June 2019

The trend of moving towards more environmentally friendly and community based operations, for reasons such as to showcase corporate social responsibility and for improved public image, has been found within hotel industry. However, research within the B &B industry on this subject is lacking, making it unclear if this sector of the lodging industry is aware of implementing such practices. This study utilized an online questionnaire to participants of a Midwest B&B conference in order to better understand what sustainable practices their establishments have implemented and the barriers that are keeping from implementing in the future.
Procedimientos de impersonalización en la ciudad de Sevilla: el caso del pronombre "uno"
Authors: Repede Doina , León-Castro Gómez Marta
Published: June 2019

El objetivo de este artículo consiste en describir el uso del pronombre uno como mecanismo de impersonalización en la comunidad urbana de Sevilla, en concreto, en una muestra de habla compuesta por 72 entrevistas del sociolecto alto, medio y bajo, pertenecientes al Corpus PRESEEA-Sevilla. Esta forma pronominal adquiere en el contexto diferentes funciones semánticas que van desde la generalización (inclusiva o exclusiva) hasta el encubrimiento pragmático del hablante, cuya finalidad consiste en proteger su imagen, buscar acuerdo social o criticar. Además, estos grados de impersonalidad están relacionados con factores sintácticos (la clase semántica del verbo), pragmáticos (temática de la conversación, secuencia discursiva), estilísticos (la relación entre los participantes en la interacción) y, en menor medida, con los criterios sociales (edad, sexo o nivel de instrucción).
The Origins of Behavioral Neuroscience from a Learning and Memory Perspective
Authors: Clark Robert E.
Published: June 2019

The discipline of behavioral neuroscience grew out of earlier incarnations such as biological psychology, physiological psychology, and psychobiology. All of these labels essentially refer to the idea that the principles of biology could be productively applied to the study of topics that had been studied before, but only from a more psychological perspective. These topics would include, but are not limited to, motivation, sensation, perception, sleep, emotion, and learning and memory. In this brief review, I focus on the topic of learning and memory and provide a history of the important milestones in the development of ideas about how the brain biologically accomplishes the task of learning and memory. Included are the early ideas of Plato, René Descartes, Théodule Ribot, et al. The review continues to the modern era of learning and memory research that begins with the description of H.M. by Brenda Milner, as well as the gradual discovery that the brain contains multiple learning and memory systems that operate in fundamentally different ways and that are supported by anatomically discrete brain structures. I conclude with a brief description of the work that lead to 2000 Nobel Prize being awarded to Eric Kandel and the 2014 Nobel Prize being awarded to John O’Keefe, Edvard Moser, and May-Britt Moser.
The Relationship of Mindfulness, Psychological Hardiness and Spirituality with Depression in Mothers
Authors: Ghasemi Zahra , Kajbaf Mohammad Bagher
Published: June 2019

Background: In recent years, the incidence of depression in people, especially women, has been growing, making it essential to study psychological correlates with the disorder. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the relationship of mindfulness, psychological hardiness and spirituality with depression in mothers.
Methods: The statistical population of this correlational study included all mothers aged 30 - 50 years in Isfahan in 2016 - 2017. To this end, 300 mothers were selected by convenience sampling. Data collection instruments were Mindfulness Skills Measures, Psychological Hardiness Questionnaire, Spirituality Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory. For data analysis, the descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis) were used.
Results: Mindfulness (-0.48), psychological hardiness (-0.39) and spirituality (-0.55) had a significant, inverse correlation with depression in mothers (P-value < 0.001). These components could significantly predict depression in mothers (P-value < 0.001).
Conclusion: Given the significant role of the subscales mindfulness, psychological hardiness and spirituality in predicting mothers' depression, it is suggested that the education of these components to mothers be taken into consideration to prevent the occurrence of depression.
The Effectiveness of Hope Therapy on Improving the Elderly Quality of Life
Authors: Zareei Mahmoodabadi Hassan , Nourian Mansoreh , Reza Javadian Seyed Reza , Fallah Tafti Elahe
Published: June 2019

Background: Elderly is an era of life, which affects quality of life; aging changes the thinking ways and reduces the self-confidence.
The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of hope therapy on the elderly quality of life in Mehriz, Yazd in 2016 - 2017.
Methods: In this controlled study with pre-test post-test design, the study population consisted of all elderly people who referred to daily care centers of Mehriz. The sample consisted of 24 elderly women in the daily care centers, who were divided into two groups of experimental (n = 12) and awaiting (n = 12).Hope therapy was provided in eight sessions for the experimental group. The instrument used in this research was Quality of Life Scale for the Elderly.
Results: The MANOVA results showed a significant difference between the experimental and awaiting groups. In the experimental group, physical function, depression, anxiety, mental performance, and life satisfaction improved, but education did not affect the sex dimension. Hope therapy, was effective on improving the elderly quality of life.
Conclusion: The studied training can be used as an effective treatment to improve the elderly quality of life.
Effect of 6 weeks aerobic training on peripheral neuropathic pain and expression of NOTCH1 pathway genes in posterior spinal cord of diabetic male rats
Authors: Askarabadi Siros Hosseini , Mirnasouri Rahim , Rahmati Masoud
Published: June 2019

Introdution: Neuropathic pain is one of the most important factors affecting the quality of life of people with diabetes mellitus; regular exercises may have a role in reducing the pain associated with diabetes. The purpose of this study was the effect of six weeks aerobic training on environmental neuropathic pain and expression of the NOTCH1 pathway in the spinal cord of diabetic male rats.
Methods: 40 male Wistar rats (age: 8 weeks old; weight 220-250g) were randomly divided into 4 groups: diabetic neuropathy training (DNT), diabetic neuropathy control (DNC), healthy training (HT) and healthy control (HC).The diabetic groups were induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) and two weeks after induction of diabetes, behavioral pain tests were administered and endurance training protocol was performed for 6 weeks and 5 sessions per week. .The data were analyzed via  SPSS software version 19 and one-way ANOVA with a significant level (P <0.05)
Results: After 6 weeks of aerobic training, the expression of NOTCH1 HES1 and il6 genes in diabetic neuropathy training group was significantly lower than the diabetic neuropathy control group (P≤0/05). The mean weight of the diabetic neuropathic training group was more than the diabetic neuropathy control group (p=0/001). Also, exercise significantly decreased blood glucose levels in the diabetic neuropathy group (P=0/237).
Conclusion: It seems that aerobic exercise on rats with diabetic neuropathy can affect on pain sensation as well as the levels of NOTCH1, HES1 and il6 factors, and aerobic exercise is a suitable method for preventing, controlling and treating pain associated with diabetes.
Evaluation of comparison of clinical outcome treated oocyte with ionomycin and strontium chloride in infertile couple with previous failed in vitro fertilization
Authors: Norozi-Hafshejani Marziyeh , Tavalaee Marziyeh , Nasr- Esfahani Mohammad Hossein
Published: June 2019

Introduction: Several factors are involved in failed fertilization following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which could be related to sperm, oocyte factors and/or both. Failure in oocyte activation is considered as the most important factor in failed fertilization after ICSI. To overcome this shortcoming, artificial oocyte activation (AOA) after ICSI has been suggested. Commonly, ionomycin and strontium chloride are used as the most efficient agents for oocyte activation in the clinic. In this study, for the first time, the clinical results of ionomycin and strontium chloride were compared on sister oocytes of couples who previously have had fertilization failure after ICSI.
Methods: In this intervention study, 14 couples with male factor infertility and previous failed fertilization after ICSI were included in this study. Oocytes of their wives were divided into two groups. Half of the oocytes after ICSI were treated with ionomicin and other half were treated with strontium chloride. Then, fertilization rate, embryo quality and pregnancy status were compared through SPSS 18 software, Paired sample t-test and chi-square test.
Results: Percentage of fertilization rate was significantly higher in oocytes that were activated using strontium chloride compared to those that were activated with ionomycin (p<0.0001). Although, the pregnancy rate was insignificantly higher in strontium chloride group than ionomycin group (p=0.387), but the quality of embryo was similar between the two groups (p=0.924).
Conclusion: In infertile men with previous failed fertilization after ICSI, the use of strontium chloride can also be recommended for oocyte activation.
EFFECTS OF TOP MANAGEMENT SUPPORT ON KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER AND SHARING: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF TRUST
Authors: Meddour Houcine , Saoula Oussama , Abdul Majid Abdul Halim , Abu Auf Mohamed Abdellatif
Published: June 2019

Purpose: This paper examines the relationship between top management support and knowledge transfer and sharing in Multimedia Super Corridor MSC status organizations, using trust as a mediator. A theoretical model was tested through a survey carried out by 132 middle managers in MSC status organizations in Malaysia.

Methodology: Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed for data analysis.

Results: The obtained results show that the top management support will facilitate knowledge transfer and sharing.

Implications: The empirical evidence confirmed that the direct and indirect relationships between top management support, trust and knowledge transfer, and sharing were found to be fully supported, including the relationship between trust and knowledge transfer and sharing. Finally, trust fully mediates the relationship between top management support and knowledge transfer and sharing.
CRITICAL FACTORS OF THE NATURAL RUBBER PRICE INSTABILITY IN THE WORLD MARKET
Authors: Khin Aye Aye , Leh Bin Raymond Ling , Keong Ooi Chee , Win Yie Foo , Liang Ng Jye
Published: June 2019

Purpose:  Natural rubber (NR) production has a long history and has been contributing as one of the most important economic sectors in Malaysia recently. In enhancing the Malaysian rubber economy, it is crucial to find a balance between supply-side and demand-side considerations in order to stabilize the NR price in the worldwide market.  This has raised the motivation and objectives of this research is to investigate the critical factors affecting the NR price instability in the world market, and to estimate and predict the NR price instability and to examine the most related factors that influence the price model by using ex-post and ex-ante forecast analysis.  Methodology:  Number of profound research methods Vector Error Correction Method (VECM) by Gujarati and Porter; cointegration rank test by Dwyer; and ex-post forecast method by Pindyck and Rubinfeld have been utilized in this study. The data used from 2008 January to 2016 December: monthly time series data.  Results: The results show that the explanatory variables of NR production, total NR consumption, crude oil price, and Shanghai NR price indicate a significant relationship with Malaysian NR price (SMR20), on the contrary, the exchange rate is not significant.  Implications: The outcome of the study is closely related to the current situation of the exchange rate appreciation in the late of 2017 that may benefit the decision-making process of economic planning for the NR production stability, and price in the worldwide NR market as well.
Identification of new sources of resistance in Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) against powdery mildew (Erysiphe polygoni) and stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) diseases
Authors: Mishra R. K. , Parihar A. K. , Basvaraj T. , Kumar Krishna
Published: June 2019

Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is one of the important legume crops of North and Central India. This crop is commonly affected by most devastating diseases like powdery mildew and stem rot. Therefore, identification of new resistance source is urgently needed to achieve potential yield. In present investigation fifty-two genotypes of rajmash comprising landraces, cultivars and exotic genotypes were screened against powdery mildew and stem rot diseases under natural field conditions during rabi 2014-15 and 2015-16. The results revealed that, out of 52 genotypes screened against powdery mildew disease, four genotypes/cultivars were free from powdery mildew disease, 16 were found resistant, 12 were moderately resistant, 4 were moderately susceptible, 10 were susceptible and 6 lines were highly susceptible. In case of Sclerotinia stem rot disease, out of 52 genotypes 20 genotypes exhibited resistance, 12 moderately resistance, 7 found susceptible and 5 genotypes were highly susceptible. Furthermore, only four genotypes viz., EC150250, BLF101, EC 565673A and GPR 203 demonstrated resistance reaction against both powdery mildew and stem rot disease. Thus, these genotypes could be used in breeding programme as donor for development of disease resistant varieties against powdery mildew and stem rot disease in future.
Cowpea genetic resources and its utilization: Indian perspective – A review
Authors: Tripathi Kuldeep , Gore P. G. , Ahlawat S. P. , Semwal D. P. , Gautam N. K. , Kumar A.
Published: June 2019

Cowpea is a multipurpose food legume of the tropics and is a crucial source of nutrition for rural and tribal communities in Africa and Asia. High protein content, nitrogen-fixing ability, drought tolerance and adaptability to challenging environment make cowpea, a promising climate resilient food legume of 21st century. This crop is grown as sole or mix-crop and in agro-forestry combinations for diverse uses as pulse, vegetable and fodder. Although cowpea has been used by indigenous people for centuries, its full potential has never been realized. Its production did not increase over the years due to narrow genetic base, biotic and abiotic stresses and non-adaptation to changing climate. Ultimate solution lies in its genetic resource which are the reservoir of useful genes. Lack of information on germplasm characterization and evaluation restricts the effective use of germplasm stored in the genebanks. Introgression of genes from closely related Vigna species and application of modern molecular tools may facilitate broadening the genetic base of cowpea.
Understanding UCEs: A Comprehensive Primer on Using Ultraconserved Elements for Arthropod Phylogenomics
Authors: Zhang Yuanmeng , Williams Jason , Lucky Andrea
Published: June 2019

Targeted enrichment of ultraconserved elements (UCEs) has emerged as a promising tool for inferring evolutionary history in many taxa, with utility ranging from phylogenetic and phylogeographic questions at deep time scales to population level studies at shallow time scales. However, UCEs are underutilized in arthropod phylogenomics, and the methodology can be daunting for beginners. Our goal is to introduce UCEs phylogenomics to a wider audience by summarizing recent advances in UCE phylogenomics in arthropod research to familiarize readers with background theory and steps involved in UCEs phylogenomics. We define terminology used in association with the UCE approach, evaluate current laboratory and bioinformatic methods and limitations, and finally provide a roadmap of steps in the UCEs pipeline to assist phylogeneticists in making informed decisions as they employ this powerful tool. The UCEs pipeline can be divided into the following steps: 1) probe selection and design 2) wet lab work and sequencing, 3) bioinformatics, and 4) phylogenomic analyses. we provide quality-control tips to ensure that best results in data collection and downstream analyses. Our hope is to encourage increased adoption of UCEs in phylogenomics studies, deepen our understanding of the function of UCEs themselves across widely divergent taxa, and toward increased understanding of the tree of life.
The Mysterious, and Potentially Revolutionary, Immunological Properties of Transfer Factor: A Review
Authors: Root-Bernstein Robert
Published: June 2019

Transfer factor is the name given to material derived from activated lymphocytes that is probably composed of a complex of a peptide and a short segment of RNA and which has the reported ability to transfer specific T cell immunity to uncommitted lymphocytes. Many independent groups around the world reported isolating transfer factors between 1955 and 1990 and demonstrating their ability to transfer passive immunity from one animal or individual to another, often within 24 hours of inoculation. Such activity is potentially revolutionary both in making T cell vaccines readily manufacturable and also because the existence of transfer factors would undermine the basic assumptions of the clonal selection theory, which currently dominates immunological theory. Unfortunately, lack of the microanalytical and synthetic techniques required to properly identify transfer factors, combined with safety factors associated with it derivation from blood sources susceptible to HIV and prion infections, put an end to transfer factor research after 1990. This paper reviews the evidence supporting transfer factor activity and suggests that this potentially revolutionary concept be resurrected and subjected to renewed scrutiny in light of CRISPR-Cas mechanisms and because of its potential to make possible T cell vaccination and provide a novel basis for understanding immunological function.
The Dark Sector in the Baryon Phase Transition Cosmology
Authors: Mayer Frederick J.
Published: June 2019

This brief communication considers and illustrates dark matter and dark energy within the Baryon Phase Transition (BPT) cosmological model as well as some experiments that may confirm (or deny) the validity of the model.