bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some suggestions for Australia to promote security in the East Sea
Authors: Huynh Sang Tam
Published: September 2018

From the beginning of the 21st century, Australia’s interests in the East Sea (The South China Sea to non-Vietnamese people) have been increasingly more evident. Among those, the benefits relating the status of a “middle power” and the tensions derived mainly from China's ambitions are the most prominent features. Regarding Australia’s interests in the East Sea, the author argues that Australia had better promote more practical contributions to accommodate its role and status in the Asia-Pacific region. In particular, Australia’s contributions should be based on code of conducts, international rules and norms. In this paper, the author focuses on three recommendations, including: (i) promoting cooperation in the East Sea complying with the principles and the respect for the law; (ii) promoting Security and Defense Policy in terms of soft alliances; (iii) coordinating with regional powers in search of solutions to manage conflicts in the East Sea.
The perceptions of gender roles in parenting: An in-depth interview study
Authors: Le Nhi Phuoc Thuc
Published: September 2018

This ethnographic research paper addresses gender roles changes in parenting as perceived by a diverse population at a U.S. university. Gender roles in parenting may seem simple at first glance with the traditional stereotype of mothers being the caregivers and the fathers breadwinners. However, this line between the genders and the roles they ought to play in parenting is gradually being blurred as society progresses. For a deeper insight into this movement, in-depth interview was used to understand perceptions of people from different age groups, genders, backgrounds, and nationalities from a U.S. university in a more holistic manner. Data were collected from interviews with 16 participants of American, Italian, Honduran, Croatian, Finnish, Indian, German-Nepali, Bosnian, Danish and Thai nationalities. The findings show that the perceptions of people towards parental gender roles have become more “equal” over the course of time and that there are various causes related to these changes including education, living environment, biological make-up and historical factors.
The role of family parentage in maintaining and developing traditional handicarft villages in Quang Tri
Authors: Bui Thanh Viet
Published: September 2018

Parentage plays an important role in traditional handicraft villages in Quang Tri, clearly demonstrating through training for next generations; supporting local produce, human resource as well as career orientation. These relationships are kept with conventions of villages and family; and families become the connections that perform the traditional rules of family from generation to generation. Considering the roles of parentage in promoting traditional handicraft villages in Quang Tri in accordance with the development of the villages is necessary for the government to plan a policy that can increase the development of such villages in the future.
Forms of belief relating Vietnamese people’s occupations in Quang Nam and their values in the current life
Authors: Le Huyen Thu , Tran Ny Thi Ngoc
Published: September 2018

The paper analyzes forms of belief relating Vietnamese people’s occupations in Quang Nam, Vietnam. These are beliefs related to agriculture, to fisheries and to craft system (carpentry, pottery). By describing the characteristics of belief, we clarify the impact of belief concerning occupations on the spiritual life of the people of Quang (Quảng in Vietnamese) in general.
Authorities in community management of the Cil in Langbiang biosphere reservation area (Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province)
Authors: Huynh Thu Ngoc
Published: September 2018

Using Weberian notion of types of authorities within a society, this paper attempts to examine contemporary community management issues of the Cil in Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province. By data collected through participation-observation at the community, together with questionnaires, the author depicts a vivid description of the division of different types of authorities in community management of the Cil. While one type of authority becomes prominent, others stay at their neutral roles and yet, still others lose their significance and turn into traditional symbolic authorities rather than real domination.
Funeral rites of the Chil in Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province
Authors: Vo Tu Tan
Published: September 2018

The study of the funeral rituals of an ethnic group is essentially an approach to traditional cultural values and its transformations under the influence of many from-objective-to-subjective factors from the general policy of the Party and the government to individual actions of each ethnic group. This paper deals with the funeral rituals of the Chil people living in Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province in the tradition as well as its current transformations on the basis of practical survey materials. Some other research materials are related to the Chil people.
Main motivating factors which affect employee satisfaction: Case studies in DongNai province inspectorate
Authors: Nguyen Thang Ngoc
Published: September 2018

This study aims to build a theoretical framework to explore some main motivating factors which affect employee satisfaction in DongNai Province Inspectorate. The researcher employs meta-analysis methods to utilise valuable findings from previous overseas and domestic studies. The proposed theoretical framework is based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (1943), ERG (1969), Kovach (1987), Public service motivation (1990). Simultaneously, there is a modification in order to fit into the context of DongNai Province Inspectorate. The suggested theoretical model indicates elements including promotion, social position, public serving, interesting work, good relationship and responsibilities. Employee satisfaction in DongNai Province Inspectorate is mostly affected by “interesting work”, because professional environment makes people feel secure to work in an organization. The impact of other factors is in a descending order as follows: promotion, public serving, social position, responsibilities and good relationship.
Non-official traditional institutions in current life
Authors: Ngo Le Van
Published: September 2018

Culture is the creation of an ethnic group. In the present context, as Vietnam is on the path of integration and development, the study of culture not only helps the reader to see the inheritance and creativity throughout history, but also to see the power of culture for today's development because “All social development must be linked to the inheritance and promotion of traditional culture and national identity. Any development away from the origin is subject to risk of deterioration. Going into the market economy, modernizing the country away from the traditional values will result in the lost of national identity, lost of oneself to become the shadow of others." (Do Muoi). In the present cultural life, in addition to the official institutions (state institutions), there are still certain influences and domination of the non-official traditional institutions – institutions associated with a community. Effective exploitation of non-official traditional institutions contributes to the well-being of cultural life in the present context is essential. Our paper presents the role of non-official traditional institutions in today’s cultural life.
The discourse of traditional Chinese poetics from the hermeneutic perspective
Authors: Duong Dung Ngoc
Published: September 2018

This article re-examines the system of discourses in traditional Chinese poetics from the German hermeneutical perspective extending from Chladenius to Heidegger. The author also conducts a comparative research on the Vietnamese counterpart with a view to illuminating several hidden assumptions that shaped the way scholars in China and Vietnam made a critical reading of literary works. If the objective of most modern poetics has been found in the attempt to clarify the intrinsic structure of a specific piece of literature, Chinese and, to a lesser extent, Vietnamese traditional poetics tended to underline the constant relationship between a poet, who was called upon to serve Tao and Tao or Seyn, using a Heideggerian term.
The language used by the Khmer community in Ha Tien town, Kien Giang province
Authors: Huynh Them Thanh
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we conducted a survey on the use of the language of the Khmer community using Khmer-Viet-Hoa in Ha Tien town, through questionnaires used in social survey study, then through the treatment of the data field surveys. Based on the data, we conducted the analysis and consideration of the capacity of the Khmer language by Gender, Age, Education, Occupation to see the percentage of the Khmer who know the Khmer language, the Vietnamese language, and the Chinese language, from which we form proposals and suggestions for appropriate language policies for the Khmer community in Ha Tien town, Kien Giang Province nowadays.
The new step towards the development of ASEAN and of Vietnamese Studies
Authors: Bui The Khanh
Published: September 2018

After 48 years of development (August 8th, 1967 - August 8th, 2015), ASEAN successfully expanded into a set of 10 nations. At the end of 2015, after a period of preparation, the ASEAN Economic Community was officially established. This is an association linking nations in the region, coming out prestigious into the world community. For each step forward in the development, Vietnam is closely related to it either directly or indirectly, and scholars in the field of Vietnamese studies are deeply interested in it.
The role of sea and islands in the resistance war to save the country in Thanh Hoa province (1946-1972)
Authors: Vu Anh Quy Tung
Published: September 2018

Thanh Hoa is one of the 28 provinces and cities in Vietnam which have sea and islands, which leads to Thanh Hoa’s involvement in Vietnam national maritime strategy. In the course of history, the two wars against the French colonialism and the US imperialism to defend the country have proved its vital role. The paper clarifies the role of the sea and islands in Thanh Hoa province, which means a great deal in Vietnam maritime strategy now.
The tradition of convent for filial piety of Khmer people in Soc Trang: values and changes
Authors: Huynh Trung Hieu
Published: September 2018

The tradition of convent for filial piety of Khmer people in Soc Trang is a long-standing tradition, demonstrating cultural values and education among the Khmer ethnic community. However, according to the changing circumstances of the society, the practice is no longer considered as important as before. This paper describes the practice and analyzes some of the causes for the decline in the number of monks: education in the temple for the intellectual needs of the Khmer youth; The impact of the market economy and the development of information technology; The early involvement of the Khmer youth due to shrinking agricultural land; and conversion activities of the Khmer Theravada Buddhist followers.
Trung Nghia temple (Chau Đoc - An Giang) and some Sino-Nom documents
Authors: Nguyen Trieu Dong , Nguyen Hoai Van
Published: September 2018

Trung Nghia temple (Chau Phu temple) is an ancient temple which is one of the biggest and the most beautiful ones in Mekong River Delta. It also preserves several precious Sino-Nom documents concerning the history of the temple and Nguyen Huu Canh’s role in expanding the country; simultaneously, through these Sino-Nom documents, we could understand the love and admiration for General Nguyen by Southern Vietnamese people. This paper briefly relates the history of building the temple and translates some typical Sino-Nom documents to recommend to the readers who are interested in this topic.
Radioterapi pada Tatalaksana Tumor Wilms
Authors: Sutedja Tirawan , Supriana Nana
Published: September 2018

Wilms’ tumor atau nefroblastoma merupakan keganasan ginjal tersering pada anak. Insidensinya mencapai 6% dari seluruh kasus keganasan pada anak. Gejala klinis pada mayoritas kasus Wilms’ tumor berupa asimtompatik massa pada abdomen, namun 20-30 persen dari kasus memberikan gejala nyeri abdomen, malaise, atau hematuria mikroskopik ataupun makroskopik. Gambaran umum dari Wilms’ tumor adalah adanya pseudocapsule yang mengelilingi tumor. Modalitas terapi untuk Wilms’ tumor adalah pembedahan, kemoterapi, dan terapi radiasi. Pembedahan merupakan tatalaksana terpenting dan prosedur operasi yang dijalankan dengan akurat dapat menentukan staging Wilms’ tumor dengan tepat serta rencana tatalaksana selanjutnya. Kemoterapi merupakan terapi ajuvan utama pasca radiasi ataupun terapi preoperatif. Radiasi eksterna merupakan terapi ajuvan pada Wilms’ tumor dengan stadium lanjut. Gabungan kemoterapi dan radiasi eksterna memberikan hasil yang lebih baik. Namun demikian patut diperhatikan efek samping kombinasi kedua modalitas terapi tersebut. Mengingat toksisitas jangka panjang, peran radiasi eksterna masih terbatas dan hanya  diberikan dengan dosis yang relatif rendah.
Vibrational spectra of 4-hydroxy-3-cyano-7-chloro-quinoline by Density Functional Theory and ab initio Hartree-Fock calculations
Authors: ARICI Kani
Published: September 2018

The
infrared vibrational spectra of 4-hydroxy-3-cyano-7-chloro-quinoline
(4H3CN7CLQ) molecule in the solid phase were download from the NIST Chemistry
WebBook. In order to calculate the frequency of molecular vibrations the
4H3CN7CLQ molecule was optimized in the HF and DFT theories in the basic case.
All frequencies calculated with HF/6-311G(dp) and DFT/B3LYP/6-311G(dp) were
scaled to 0.9085 and 0.9669, respectively. All calculations were not limited
and performed on a personal computer using GaussView visualization and
GAUSSIAN09 program package. The frequencies values obtained by scaling were
compared with the experimental values one by one. Correlation graphs were drawn
between experimental and theoretical values. However, some modes of vibration
frequencies are also provided. The frequency values obtained from the HF and
DFT methods are seen in good agreement with the experimental data.
Co-Immobilization of pullulanase, glucoamylase and glucose isomerase together with cross-linked enzyme aggregates: Fructose conversion from three enzymes and starch in one step
Authors: AKKOÇ Yakup , TÜKEL S. Seyhan
Published: September 2018

In this study, in order
to obtain fructose syrup from starch, pullulanase (PUL), glucoamylase (GA) and
glucose isomerase (GI) were immobilized together with cross-linked enzyme
aggregates (CLEAs), and named as 'combi-CLEAs'. The values of Vmaxand Kmfrom
the kinetic parameters of combi-CLEAs [(GA + PUL) + GI] were found as 12      U g-1 and 0.1157 mg ml-1
in optimum conditions, respectively. After
50 uses, it was observed that the remaining activity of combi-CLEAs [GA + PUL +
GI] was preserved at 46%. The thermal stability of combi-CLEAs
[GA + PUL) + GI] was observed to be 44% and 30%, respectively, at 60 and 80 ° C
after 24 hours. At the end of 30 days, the
storage stabilities of combi-CLEAs [(GA + PUL) + GI] was determined as 56% and
13% at the temperatures of 4 and 25°C, respectively.
Treatment of Angle class I malocclusion with severe crowding by extraction of four premolars: A case report
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Nowrin Shifat A , Shahid Fazal , Haque Sanjida , Imran Anas , Fareen Nashid , Sujon Mamun Khan , Zaman Shaila , Islam Rafiqul , Nishi Shamima Easmin
Published: September 2018

Aims: To correct the Angle class I malocclusion with crowding via four premolar extractions.Presentation of case:A 19-year-old Malaysian female presented with the bimaxillary protrusion, crowding, high canines, midline deviation and edge-to-edge anterior bite. Upper lateral incisors were palatalized and in crossbite interactions with the opposite teeth.Discussion: Treatment was initiated using fixed orthodontic appliances followed by four 1st premolar extractions in both arches. Case was finished with good inter cuspation of the upper and lower teeth. Molars were finished in a Class I relationship with canine guidance, and ideal overjet and overbite were obtained.Conclusion: Successful finishing of a case with beautiful smile, obtained proper overjet and overbite, corrected cross bite, midline shifting and the improved soft tissue profile.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.17(4) 2018 p.683-687
Environment friendly management of mosquito: a short review
Authors: Riaz MA , Riaz A , Ijaz B , Rasool MS , Rahat S , Nisa Z Un
Published: September 2018

Despite the large scale use of insecticides, capacity building, municipality, community and metropolis awareness, and preventive measures to counter vector borne diseases which are mounting day-by-day, new tools are now been introducing to prevent the spread of mosquito transmitted diseases. The low efficacy status of chemical pesticides have lead to the interest of researchers in search of fresh and even more practicable vector control methodologies to be applied. In this regards, multiple alternatives have been monitoring to develop control practice measures for the eradication, observation and control of mosquitoes at larval level by the use of a sustainable biological monitoring and control by an ordinary constructive predator, to exercise monitoring and practical control measures over parasites at larval stages in environmental and eco-friendly techniques. In particular, bio-control measures to monitor and control practical practices, context predatory larvivorous fish, dragonfly nymph, frogs, copepods, turtle, Entomopathogenic bacillus, Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis are beings tried in different regions of world. The available research on the subject recommends that there exist multiple direct and indirect growth factors that could play a dynamic role in prey and predator’s survival. Species controphic that have an impact on concerned eco-relation reflect significant effect. In addition to this, certain eco-relations represent positive stimuli for the control of vector borne viral diseases. As a bio-control achieving feasible agent for vector monitoring, pointing, management and control predatory larvivorous fish, dragonfly nymph, frogs, copepods, turtle, Entomopathogenic bacillus, Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis are not only considered as a liberated intervention for disease vector control of practices and mechanical control cost deterrents as well. Further research has been suggested on the subject so as to find out even more practicable and effective mosquito monitoring and practical control practices.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res.53(3), 169-178, 2018
Analytical approach of an FSO Link with alamouti- type STBC considering weak atmospheric turbulence
Authors: Islam MS , Morshed M , Roy RC , Begum MHA
Published: September 2018

An analytical approach is proposed to evaluate the bit error rate (BER) performance of a direct detection on-off keying (OOK) free space optical link over log-normal atmospheric turbulence-induced fading channels based on modified Alamouti code presented by Simon and Vilnrotter and maximal ratio combining (MRC) at the receiver. Simulations show that due to coding and diversity at the receiver, a significant improvement in the BER performance is obtained at a given BER. For diversity order of 2 in both transmitter and in receiver, the amount of BER improvement is 6.6dB at BER 10-5. Further increment of the receiver diversity from 2 to 4 gives additional 3dB improvement at the same BER. A drastic improvement of the BER performance is also possible for increasing number of receiver diversity which may increase hardware complexity. Simulation results are demonstrated to confirm the analytical results.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res.53(3), 205-210, 2018
Prevalence of clinical and subclinical caprine mastitis of northern region in Bangladesh
Authors: Ferdous J , Rahman MS , Khan MI , Khan MAHNA , Rima UK
Published: September 2018

Mastitis is a multifactorial and infectious disease of the udder of dairy animals. Infected animals suffer from pain and fever and causing damage in udder and changes in milk. The aim of this work was to determine the prevalence of clinical and sub-clinical caprine mastitis associated with bacterial pathogens during the period from January to June, 2017. A total of 120 lactating goats were randomly selected from different villages of Dinajpur district and 240 milk samples from each udder half were aseptically collected. The udders were examined and screened for the evidence of clinical and subclinical mastitis by clinical examination of udders and examining milk samples. Subclinical mastitis was detected by California Mastitis Test (CMT). Milk samples of all clinical and subclinical mastitis goats were cultured in/on bacteriological media for isolation and characterization of responsible bacterial pathogens. The overall prevalence of clinical and subclinical mastitis in goats was found to be 11.67% and 38.75%, respectively. Bacteriological examination of mastitic milk samples of caprine revealed Staphylococcus spp. (32.5%) as the major pathogen followed by Escherichia coli (22.5%), Pseudomonas spp. (12.5%), Klebsiella spp. (12.5%) and Bacillus spp. (5%). Results of this study indicated that about 50% of caprine udder were infected with mastitis (38.75%), which may render lowering milk production and mortality of goats and kids. It needs to screen milk sample of lactating goats by CMT, identify mastitic goats with infected bacteria, evaluate antibiotic sensitivity and design control strategy accordingly.Progressive Agriculture 29 (2): 127-138, 2018
Beckett's Brush with Joan Mitchell: Painterly Techniques in ‘One Evening’
Authors: Jeffery Lucy
Published: September 2018

This paper explores Samuel Beckett's creative relationship with the painter, Joan Mitchell. Through an analysis of Beckett's short text ‘One Evening’ (1980) and Mitchell's painting Tondo (1991), it explores the influence these artists had on each other's work. By drawing comparisons between their aesthetic approaches to their respective medium, it suggests that Beckett's self-reflexive, ambiguous, and carefully coloured late text shares similarities with the work Mitchell was producing around the same time. It uses art historical scholarship and close textual analysis to show how, in some instances, their creative processes reflects that of Paul Cézanne. Beckett's late style is seen as not simply becoming darker, but, like Mitchell's canvases, fluctuates between light and dark, colour and monochrome. The paper proposes that through their considered use of colour both Beckett and Mitchell's work intensifies rather than alleviates the essential tension that drives their aesthetic thought.
Influenza Vaccinations for All Pregnant Women? Better Evidence Is Needed
Authors: Donzelli Alberto
Published: September 2018

Pregnant women are a World Health Organization (WHO) priority group for influenza vaccination, but evidence of effectiveness and safety for pregnant women comes from observational studies, which are notoriously prone to confounding by indication and healthy-vaccinee bias. The latter type of bias leads to an overestimation of the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine, which may be what occurs in pregnant women. Indeed, better educated women with healthier behaviors and who seek better medical care may be more adherent to vaccinations recommended by doctors, scientific societies and health authorities. Therefore, it is fundamental to obtain information about vaccine effectiveness and safety from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Cochrane reviews have identified only one RCT with “low risk of bias”. Its results were unclear in terms of maternal, perinatal, and infant deaths and hospitalization, and showed a Number Needed to Vaccine (NNV) of 55 for mothers, with an excess of local adverse effects. A Cochrane review concluded that the inactivated influenza vaccine provides pregnant women with uncertain or very limited protection against influenza-like illnesses and influenza. Some observational studies have suggested possible adverse effects of the inflammation following the vaccination. Consistent with the Cochrane reviewers’ conclusions, further trials for influenza vaccines with appropriate study designs and comparison groups are required before promoting universal seasonal influenza vaccinations of pregnant women. Meanwhile, vaccination in second to third trimester should be offered while communicating the uncertainties that still exist, promoting informed choices. Vaccination in the first trimester is debatable and debated. This does not mean leaving women defenseless; many other useful behavioral and environmental measures can reduce infectious disease.
Protein Phosphatase (PP2C9) Induces Protein Expression Differentially to Mediate Nitrogen Utilization Efficiency in Rice under Nitrogen-Deficient Condition
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Feng Shizhong , Amjad Hira , Letuma Puleng , Zhan Wenshan , Li Zhong , Fang Changxun , Arafat Yasir , Khan Muhammad Umar , Tayyab Muhammad , Lin Wenxiong
Published: September 2018

Nitrogen (N) is an essential element usually limiting in plant growth and a basic factor for increasing the input cost in agriculture. To ensure the food security and environmental sustainability it is urgently required to manage the N fertilizer. The identification or development of genotypes with high nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) which can grow efficiently and sustain yield in low N conditions is a possible solution. In this study, two isogenic rice genotypes i.e., wild-type rice kitaake and its transgenic line PP2C9TL overexpressed protein phosphatase gene (PP2C9) were used for comparative proteomics analysis at control and low level of N to identify specific proteins and encoding genes related to high NUE. 2D gel electrophoresis was used to perform the differential proteome analysis. In the leaf proteome, 30 protein spots were differentially expressed between the two isogenic lines under low N level which were involved in the process of energy, photosynthesis, N metabolism, signaling, and defense mechanisms. In addition, we have found that protein phosphatase enhances nitrate reductase activation by downregulation of SnRK1 and 14-3-3 proteins. Furthermore, we showed that PP2C9TL exhibits higher NUE than WT due to higher activity of nitrate reductase. This study provides new insights on the rice proteome which would be useful in the development of new strategies to increase NUE in cereal crops.
Ca2+ Signaling and IL-8 Secretion in Human Testicular Peritubular Cells Involve the Cation Channel TRPV2
Authors: Eubler Katja , Herrmann Carola , Tiefenbacher Astrid , Köhn Frank-Michael , Schwarzer J. Ullrich , Kunz Lars , Mayerhofer Artur
Published: September 2018

Peritubular cells are part of the wall of seminiferous tubules in the human testis and their contractile abilities are important for sperm transport. In addition, they have immunological roles. A proteomic analysis of isolated human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs) revealed expression of the transient receptor potential channel subfamily V member 2 (TRPV2). This cation channel is linked to mechano-sensation and to immunological processes and inflammation in other organs. We verified expression of TRPV2 in peritubular cells in human sections by immunohistochemistry. It was also found in other testicular cells, including Sertoli cells and interstitial cells. In cultured HTPCs, application of cannabidiol (CBD), a known TRPV2 agonist, acutely induced a transient increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels. These Ca2+ transients could be blocked both by ruthenium red, an unspecific Ca2+ channel blocker, and tranilast (TRA), an antagonist of TRPV2, and were also abolished when extracellular Ca2+ was removed. Taken together this indicates functional TRPV2 channels in peritubular cells. When applied for 24 to 48 h, CBD induced expression of proinflammatory factors. In particular, mRNA and secreted protein levels of the proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8/CXCL8) were elevated. Via its known roles as a major mediator of the inflammatory response and as an angiogenic factor, this chemokine may play a role in testicular physiology and pathology.
Ocular Drug Delivery: Role of Degradable Polymeric Nanocarriers for Ophthalmic Application
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Han , Wang Peng-Yuan , Lin I-Chan , Huang Hu , Liu Guei-Sheung , Tseng Ching-Li
Published: September 2018

Ocular drug delivery has been a major challenge for clinical pharmacologists and biomaterial scientists due to intricate and unique anatomical and physiological barriers in the eye. The critical requirement varies from anterior and posterior ocular segments from a drug delivery perspective. Recently, many new drugs with special formulations have been introduced for targeted delivery with modified methods and routes of drug administration to improve drug delivery efficacy. Current developments in nanoformulations of drug carrier systems have become a promising attribute to enhance drug retention/permeation and prolong drug release in ocular tissue. Biodegradable polymers have been explored as the base polymers to prepare nanocarriers for encasing existing drugs to enhance the therapeutic effect with better tissue adherence, prolonged drug action, improved bioavailability, decreased toxicity, and targeted delivery in eye. In this review, we summarized recent studies on sustained ocular drug/gene delivery and emphasized on the nanocarriers made by biodegradable polymers such as liposome, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), chitosan, and gelatin. Moreover, we discussed the bio-distribution of these nanocarriers in the ocular tissue and their therapeutic applications in various ocular diseases.
Altered Glucosinolate Profiles and Expression of Glucosinolate Biosynthesis Genes in Ringspot-Resistant and Susceptible Cabbage Lines
Authors: Abuyusuf Md. , Robin Arif Hasan Khan , Kim Hoy-Taek , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Park Jong-In , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: September 2018

Ringspot, caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella brassicicola, is a serious disease of Brassica crops worldwide. Despite noteworthy progress to reveal the role of glucosinolates in pathogen defense, the host–pathogen interaction between cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and M. brassicicola has not been fully explored. Here, we investigated the glucosinolate profiles and expression of glucosinolate biosynthesis genes in the ringspot-resistant (R) and susceptible (S) lines of cabbage after infection with M. brassicicola. The concomitant rise of aliphatic glucoiberverin (GIV) and indolic glucobrassicin (GBS) and methoxyglucobrassicin (MGBS) was linked with ringspot resistance in cabbage. Pearson’s correlation and principle component analysis showed a significant positive association between GIV contents and the expression of the glucosinolate biosynthesis gene ST5b-Bol026202 and between GBS contents and the expression of the glucosinolate biosynthesis gene MYB34-Bol017062. Our results confirmed that M. brassicicola infection induces the expression of glucosinolate biosynthesis genes in cabbage, which alters the content of individual glucosinolates. This link between the expression of glucosinolate biosynthesis genes and the accumulation of their respective glucosinolates with the resistance to ringspot extends our molecular sense of glucosinolate-negotiated defense against M. brassicicola in cabbage.
Aloe Genus Plants: From Farm to Food Applications and Phytopharmacotherapy
Authors: Salehi Bahare , Albayrak Sevil , Antolak Hubert , Kręgiel Dorota , Pawlikowska Ewelina , Sharifi-Rad Mehdi , Uprety Yadav , Tsouh Fokou Patrick Valere , Yousef Zubaida , Amiruddin Zakaria Zainul , Varoni Elena Maria , Sharopov Farukh , Martins Natália , Iriti Marcello , Sharifi-Rad Javad
Published: September 2018

Aloe genus plants, distributed in Old World, are widely known and have been used for centuries as topical and oral therapeutic agents due to their health, beauty, medicinal, and skin care properties. Among the well-investigated Aloe species are A. arborescens, A. barbadensis, A. ferox, and A. vera. Today, they account among the most economically important medicinal plants and are commonly used in primary health treatment, where they play a pivotal role in the treatment of various types of diseases via the modulation of biochemical and molecular pathways, besides being a rich source of valuable phytochemicals. In the present review, we summarized the recent advances in botany, phytochemical composition, ethnobotanical uses, food preservation, and the preclinical and clinical efficacy of Aloe plants. These data will be helpful to provide future directions for the industrial and medicinal use of Aloe plants.
Islamophobia, “Clash of Civilizations”, and Forging a Post-Cold War Order!
Authors: Bazian Hatem
Published: September 2018

Islamophobia, as a problem, is often argued to be a rational choice by the stereotypical media coverage of Islam and Muslims, even though it points to the symptom rather than the root cause. Islamophobia reemerges in public discourses and part of state policies in the post-Cold War period and builds upon latent Islamophobia that is sustained in the long history of Orientalist and stereotypical representation of Arabs, Muslims, and Islam itself. The book What is Islamophobia? Racism, Social Movements and the State, edited by Narzanin Massoumi, Tom Mills, and David Miller offers a unique contribution to how best to define and locate the problem of demonizing Islam and Muslims in the contemporary period. The three scholars provide a more critical and structural approach to the subject by offering what they call the “five pillars of Islamophobia”, which are the following: (1) the institutions and machinery of the state; (2) the far-right, incorporating the counter-jihad movement; (3) the neoconservative movement; (4) the transnational Zionist movement; and (5) the assorted liberal groupings including the pro-war left and the new atheist movement. The UK-based research group correctly situates Islamophobia within existing power structures and examines the forces that consciously produce anti-Muslim discourses, the Islamophobia industry, within a broad political agenda rather than the singular focus on the media. Islamophobia emerges from the “Clash of Civilizations” ideological warriors and not merely as a problem of media stereotyping, representation, and over-emphasis on the Muslim subject. In this article, I maintain that Islamophobia is an ideological construct that emerges in the post-Cold War era with the intent to rally the Western world and the American society at a moment of perceived fragmentation after the collapse of the Soviet Union in a vastly and rapidly changing world system. Islamophobia, or the threat of Islam, is the ingredient, as postulated in Huntington’s “Clash of Civilizations” thesis that is needed to affirm the Western self-identify after the end of the Cold War and a lack of a singular threat or purpose through which to define, unify, and claim the future for the West. Thus, Islamophobia is the post-Cold War ideology to bring about a renewed purpose and crafting of the Western and American self.
Bandwidth Enhancement and Frequency Scanning Array Antenna Using Novel UWB Filter Integration Technique for OFDM UWB Radar Applications in Wireless Vital Signs Monitoring
Authors: Rahman MuhibUr , NaghshvarianJahromi Mahdi , Mirjavadi Seyed Sajad , Hamouda Abdel Magid
Published: September 2018

This paper presents the bandwidth enhancement and frequency scanning for fan beam array antenna utilizing novel technique of band-pass filter integration for wireless vital signs monitoring and vehicle navigation sensors. First, a fan beam array antenna comprising of a grounded coplanar waveguide (GCPW) radiating element, CPW fed line, and the grounded reflector is introduced which operate at a frequency band of 3.30 GHz and 3.50 GHz for WiMAX (World-wide Interoperability for Microwave Access) applications. An advantageous beam pattern is generated by the combination of a CPW feed network, non-parasitic grounded reflector, and non-planar GCPW array monopole antenna. Secondly, a miniaturized wide-band bandpass filter is developed using SCSRR (Semi-Complementary Split Ring Resonator) and DGS (Defective Ground Structures) operating at 3–8 GHz frequency band. Finally, the designed filter is integrated within the frequency scanning beam array antenna in a novel way to increase the impedance bandwidth as well as frequency scanning. The new frequency beam array antenna with integrated band-pass filter operate at 2.8 GHz to 6 GHz with a wide frequency scanning from the 50 to 125-degree range.
A Disposable and Multi-Chamber Film-Based PCR Chip for Detection of Foodborne Pathogen
Authors: Bae Nam Ho , Lim Sun Young , Song Younseong , Jeong Soon Woo , Shin Seol Yi , Kim Yong Tae , Lee Tae Jae , Lee Kyoung G. , Lee Seok Jae , Oh Yong-Jun , Park Yoo Min
Published: September 2018

Since the increment of the threat to public health caused by foodborne pathogens, researches have been widely studied on developing the miniaturized detection system for the on-site pathogen detection. In the study, we focused on the development of portable, robust, and disposable film-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) chip containing a multiplex chamber for simultaneous gene amplification. In order to simply fabricate and operate a film-based PCR chip, different kinds of PCR chambers were designed and fabricated using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) adhesive film, in comparison with commercial PCR, which employs a stereotyped system at a bench-top scale. No reagent leakage was confirmed during the PCR thermal cycling using the film PCR chip, which indicates that the film PCR chip is structurally stable for rapid heat cycling for DNA amplification. Owing to use of the thin film to fabricate the PCR chip, we are able to realize fast thermal transfer from the heat block that leads to short PCR amplification time. Moreover, using the film PCR chip, we could even amplify the target pathogen with 10 CFU mL−1. The artificially infected milk with various concentration of Bacillus cereus was successfully amplified on a single film PCR chip. On the basis of the reliable results, the developed film PCR chip could be a useful tool as a POCT device to detect foodborne pathogens via genetic analysis.
GNSS Trajectory Anomaly Detection Using Similarity Comparison Methods for Pedestrian Navigation
Authors: Peltola Pekka , Xiao Jialin , Moore Terry , Jiménez Antonio R. , Seco Fernando
Published: September 2018

The urban setting is a challenging environment for GNSS receivers. Multipath and other anomalies typically increase the positioning error of the receiver. Moreover, the error estimate of the position is often unreliable. In this study, we detect GNSS trajectory anomalies by using similarity comparison methods between a pedestrian dead reckoning trajectory, recorded using a foot-mounted inertial measurement unit, and the corresponding GNSS trajectory. During a normal walk, the foot-mounted inertial dead reckoning setup is trustworthy up to a few tens of meters. Thus, the differing GNSS trajectory can be detected using form similarity comparison methods. Of the eight tested methods, the Hausdorff distance (HD) and the accumulated distance difference (ADD) give slightly more consistent detection results compared to the rest.
Transfer Learning for Soil Spectroscopy Based on Convolutional Neural Networks and Its Application in Soil Clay Content Mapping Using Hyperspectral Imagery
Authors: Liu Lanfa , Ji Min , Buchroithner Manfred
Published: September 2018

Soil spectra are often measured in the laboratory, and there is an increasing number of large-scale soil spectral libraries establishing across the world. However, calibration models developed from soil libraries are difficult to apply to spectral data acquired from the field or space. Transfer learning has the potential to bridge the gap and make the calibration model transferrable from one sensor to another. The objective of this study is to explore the potential of transfer learning for soil spectroscopy and its performance on soil clay content estimation using hyperspectral data. First, a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) is used on Land Use/Land Cover Area Frame Survey (LUCAS) mineral soils. To evaluate whether the pre-trained 1D-CNN model was transferrable, LUCAS organic soils were used to fine-tune and validate the model. The fine-tuned model achieved a good accuracy (coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.756, root-mean-square error (RMSE) = 7.07 and ratio of percent deviation (RPD) = 2.26) for the estimation of clay content. Spectral index, as suggested as a simple transferrable feature, was also explored on LUCAS data, but did not performed well on the estimation of clay content. Then, the pre-trained 1D-CNN model was further fine-tuned by field samples collect in the study area with spectra extracted from HyMap imagery, achieved an accuracy of R2 = 0.601, RMSE = 8.62 and RPD = 1.54. Finally, the soil clay map was generated with the fine-tuned 1D-CNN model and hyperspectral data.
Reliability and Maintenance Analysis of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Petritoli Enrico , Leccese Fabio , Ciani Lorenzo
Published: September 2018

This paper focuses on the development of a new logistic approach based on reliability and maintenance assessment, with the final aim of establishing a more efficient interval for the maintenance activities for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). In the first part, we develop an architectural philosophy to obtain a more detailed reliability evaluation; then, we study the intrinsic reliability at the design stage in order to avoid severe critical issues in the UAV. In the second part, we compare different maintenance philosophies for UAVs and develop the concepts of preventive and corrective maintenance that consider the system subjected (until real “hard failure”) to partial performance degradation (“soft failure”). Finally, by evaluation of the uncertainty through the confidence interval, we determine the new soft failure limits, taking into account the general knowledge of the systems and subsystems in order to guarantee the proper preventive maintenance interval.
Aggression towards the GP: can we profile the GP–victim? A cross-section survey among GPs
Authors: Demeur Vince , Devos Sarah , Jans Esther , Schoenmakers Birgitte
Published: September 2018

Background

Aggression against GPs has increased in the past decade. Depending on experience, interpretation, and personality, the interpretation of aggressive patient behaviour will differ among doctors.

Aim

To investigate how often GPs experience aggression in a 1-year time span and what the relationship is between the GP's personality (based on the 'Big Five' personality traits) and the reporting of aggression. Secondly, to investigate how personality is related to feeling safe.

Design & setting

Flemish (Belgian Federal State) GPs were questioned in a cross-sectional design by online survey. GPs were recruited and questioned in their professional environment.

Method

Outcome measures were the 'Big Five' personality traits ('reserved' versus 'outgoing', 'compassionate' versus 'challenging', 'efficient' versus 'careless', 'confident' versus 'nervous', and 'cautious' versus 'innovative', based on Cattel's 'Big Five' model of personality), the type of aggression, the reporting of aggression, and feeling safe.

Results

Both (n= 247) male and female doctors considered physical contact and verbal intimidation as aggression. Female doctors were more likely to consider sexual harassment as aggression. The majority of GPs were confronted with verbal aggression. More than half considered physical aggression as the most threatening. GPs with 'reserved' and 'careless' personality types were more likely to experience aggression. GPs with 'innovative', 'challenging', or 'confident' personality types were also at increased risk, but to a lesser extent than those with 'reserved' and 'careless' personalities. GPs with 'efficient' and 'innovative' personalities were more likely to report incidents. Male GPs and those with 'efficient' personalities felt safer. GPs with 'confident' and 'cautious' personalities were more likely to feel unsafe.

Conclusion

The results of this study might help future interventions and support strategies (designed to prevent aggressive incidents or help GPs cope with them) to target the vulnerable groups. Further research should therefore explore the results of these data in depth and on a larger sample size.
Etude stratigraphique et sédimentologique de l'Aquitanien de la Calanque du Petit Nid (Sausset, Bouches-du-Rhône, France). Découverte d'un squelette d'Halitherium Kaup
Authors: Anglada Roger , Arnaud Michel , Catzigras France , Colomb Emile , Delcourt André , Maurel-Ferrandini Michelle
Published: September 2018

Ce travail, entrepris à la suite de la découverte d'un squelette Halitherium, présente une étude stratigraphique et sédimentologique de l'Aquitanien dans un nouveau secteur du littoral de la Nerthe.

Des corrélations sont proposées avec la coupe de Carry-le-Rouet, qui pourrait être utilisée comme coupe auxiliaire de référence du stratotype de l'Aquitanien.
La transgression cénomanienne dans le Bassin Occidental portugais
Authors: Berthou Pierre-Yves
Published: September 2018

Paleogeographical study of the western basin of Portugal based on the synthesis of the stratigraphical works. One fallows the progression of the cenomanian transgression since the Upper Albian. One describes too the post Cenomanian evolution of the basin. The paleogeographical correlations with the spanish Upper Cenomanian are proposed.
Les principaux Foraminifères benthiques du Cénomanien de Charente-Maritime et de Provence : répartition comparée
Authors: Moreau Pierre , Neumann M. , Tronchetti Guy
Published: September 2018

Ce travail est une mise au point relative à la présentation du cadre stratigraphique, plus particulièrement en Charente-Maritime où la transgression était depuis longtemps considérée comme Cénomanien supérieur et à la comparaison de la répartition des espèces entre la Provence et la Charente-Maritime.
Stratigraphie et paléoécologie des formations à Rudistes du Cénomanien : l'exemple de la Provence
Authors: Philip Jean
Published: September 2018

In Provence three Rudists bearing formations may be identified, the first one dated as upper Albian-early Cenomanian, the second one as middle Cenomanian-upper Cenomanian, the third one as upper Cenomanian-early Turonian. The abundance of Rudists and Foraminiferas, the existence of index Ammonites allow one to realize a minute biostratigraphic investigation. Each one of these formations displays a regressive sedimentologic and paleoecologic evolution, "margino-littoral" populations replacing reef populations. The Caprinidae are dominating in the three formations. According to d'Orbigny's conceptions, the Rudists may be used to work out a biozonation of the Cenomanian and to settle its limits. The Cenomanian-Turonian boundary is characterized by the apparition of the Hippuritidae. The comparison of this biozonation to those of other regions belonging to the mesogean domain will enable one to make more precise the extent and the boundaries of sub-provinces. The position of the Ceno-manian-Turonian boundary within the eastern province is debated on the ground of these new observations. out a biozonation of the Cenomanian and to settle its limits. The Cenomanian-Turonian boundary is characterized by the apparition of the Hippuritidae. The comparison of this bio¬ zonation to those of other regions belonging to the mesogean domain will enable one to make more precise the extent and the boundaries of sub-provinces. The position of the Ceno-manian-Turonian boundary within the eastern province is debated on the ground of these new observations.