Archive of Journal
Volume 74, Issue 5, May. 2018

QUALITY OF WORK LIFE - LINKAGE WITH JOB SATISFACTION: A STUDY OF EMPLOYEES IN YANBU INDUSTRIAL CITY, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.20

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Abstract: The world is changing very fast and all organizations are striving to gain a competitive edge by attracting and retaining its human capital. At this backdrop the present study examines the Quality of Work Life (QWL) in Yanbu Industrial City, K.S.A. in terms of how employees’ job satisfaction is impacted by various factors of QWL – work morale environment, job characteristics, income, teamwork, supervision style, and participation in decision making. The result indicates that QWL is high among the employees and the majority of employees have adequate confidence regarding their skills, job characteristics, opportunity in decision making process and relationship with the management, however; some employees complained about their income. Furthermore there is a significant relationship between working environment factors and job satisfaction. The regression analysis also reveals that QWL is fairly explained about 54 percentage of the variance in job satisfaction; thus it is a good predictor for job satisfaction. The present study contributes to the understanding of QWL and job satisfaction amongst the employees of Yanbu Industrial City, K.S.A.

Author(s): Abdulmonem H. Alzalabani

SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING NETT FARM REVENUE OF SMALLHOLDER FARMERS UNDER EXTREME CLIMATIC CONDITIONS IN THE EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.19

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Abstract: The Eastern Cape is one of the poorest provinces in South Africa. Agriculture remains an important sector in the province, and most smallholder farmers largely depend on it for both income and sustaining their livelihoods. Smallholder farming is usually constrained by numerous bio-physical and socio-economic challenges, resulting in low productivity and low income levels. This situation is worsened by the emerging global threat of extreme climatic events. This paper sought to determine the socio-economic factors that influence the nett farm revenue of smallholder farmers under extreme climatic conditions in the Eastern Cape province. Smallholder farmers were stratified into dry-land and irrigation farmers. Primary data was collected from 250 smallholder farmers (both crop and livestock) through structured questionnaires by means of convenience sampling from the Chris Hani and OR Tambo Districts. Data was analysed on Stata software. Descriptive statistics were employed to describe farmer characteristics and the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) multiple regressions were employed to determine the socio-economic factors influencing nett farm revenue of smallholder farmers. Results show that on average, the nett farm revenue of irrigation farmers was higher (ZAR11 868.06) than that of the dry-land farmers (ZAR7 904.85) per annum. Socio-economic factors such as gender, highest educational level, household size, farming experience and access to formal markets positively influenced nett farm revenue while distance to output markets negatively influenced nett farm revenue. It is recommended that smallholder farmers be supported and empowered, especially under extreme climatic conditions, through educational programmes and market development to enhance their production and boost their nett farm revenues.

Author(s): Melusi Sibanda, Lovemore Musemwa, Abyssinia Mushunje, Charles S. Mutengwa, Leocadia Zhou


PHILOSOPHY OF VALUES VS THEOLOGY OF VIRTUE

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.18

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Abstract: The concept of "value" in the socio-philosophical tradition has a long and sometimes ambiguous history of definition. Treating the "value" philosophers of different periods often apply the criterial approach, that is, differentiate the definition of the term depending on the chosen criterion. The choice of such a criterion, including the definition of the value characteristic of a thing (phenomenon), indicates the subjectivity of the approach. It is the subjectivity of the interpretation of the concept of "value" that gave rise to the multiplicity of philosophical approaches to its understanding. This article is devoted to the analysis of possible variants of the correlation of the concepts of virtue and value from the standpoint of both theoretical knowledge and empirical results of the author's monitoring research.

Author(s): Vera A. Gnevasheva

AN EXPERIMENTAL DEMONSTRATION OF THE MATRIX EFFECT ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF HEPATITIS B IMMUNOGLOBULIN ON IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT LEVELS MEASURED WITH THE LC-MS/MS METHOD

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.4

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Abstract: Some of the liver transplant patients need to use hepatitis B immunglobulin (HBIG) preparations due to hepatitis B reinfections. Blood level measurement of immunosuppressants used to prevent rejection is performed by immunoassay methods and LC-MS/MS reference method. It is known that immunoassay methods are influenced by immunoglobulins. Therefore, the LC-MS/MS method should be preferred in order to minimize the risk of organ rejection. Although LC-MS/MS is the reference method, some molecules in the serum may cause incorrect measurement of the analyte through matrix effect that is changing ionization efficiency. The aim of this article is to investigate the exposure of immunosuppressant blood level to the matrix effect with HBIG drug used in liver transplant patients Experimentally, it was observed that low and medium blood concentrations of tacrolimus, everolimus, sirolimus and cyclosporin were significantly increased in the interference study by adding HBIG (Hepatect CP 50 IU) to the control materials. Amount of increase is between 15,38% - 35,61%. Incorrect laboratory results may lead clinicians to adjust the wrong blood drug dose. It is vital to keep the immunosuppressive drug levels in the therapeutic index in organ transplant patients. Immunosuppressants should be measured from blood sample that is taken prior to HBIG administration, since incorrect measurements caused by the matrix effect would increase the risk of liver rejection.

Author(s): Ataman GONEL, ismail KOYUNCU


EFFICIENT 3-TIER HYBRID ENCRYPTION MODEL FOR IMPROVED DATA SECURITY IN THE CLOUD LANDSCAPE

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.17

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Abstract: Cloud computing is a computing paradigm that offers several benefits such as scalability, reduced cost, mobile storage, ubiquitous access and energy saving. It is also faced with several challenges dominated by security, trust and privacy. Particularly, security challenges such as data security has been considered as a serious bottleneck and has impeded several individuals and organizations from migrating their businesses and data to the cloud. Users� data integrity and confidentiality are prone to unauthorized access and compromises. Albeit several solutions have been offered such as data encryption, cloud-end users� data is still at risk. Encryption has several algorithms either symmetric or asymmetric with each having its own strengths and weaknesses. However, due to the sophistication of today�s attacks, using individual algorithm is no longer sufficient to protect users� data and identifying which combination of the algorithms to use in reinforcing security strength at reduced computational and resource usage cost poses a challenging task. Therefore, this paper analyses the state-ofthe- art of encryption algorithms used for data encryption in cloud environment with the goal of identifying their strengths and weaknesses. We analyzed ten (10) articles which utilized hybrid algorithms with emphasis on 3 symmetric and 3 asymmetric algorithms. The analysis results shows that the symmetric techniques are mostly computational and resource-efficient than the asymmetric techniques. However, the asymmetric technique is considered a better option for data security to ensure users� data confidentiality and integrity. Furthermore, this paper proposes a 3-tier RSA-Blowfish-DES hybrid model to protect users� data stored in the cloud. The model was designed, developed and performance evaluated against a 2-tier RSABlowfish hybrid model. The evaluation was based on the security strength, time efficiency and the data size after encryption and decryption. The evaluation shows that both hybrid models were effective in the protection of data stored in the cloud compared to individual algorithms. The 2-tier model has a better time efficiency than the 3-tier model, while the data size was observed to slightly increase after encryption but assumed its original size after decryption. Nonetheless, the 3-tier RSA-DES-Blowfish model was found to be more secured. Consequently, the 3-tier model could be more preferable in ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of cloud users� data which in turn will reduce or eliminate existing skepticism about security of data stored in cloud.

Author(s): BASSEY ISONG, Koketso Ntshabele, Thusoyaone Moemi, Nosipho Dladlu, Naison Gasela


THE ATTITUDE OF MANAGERS AND OFFICE WORKERS OF THE \\r\\nERCIYES UNIVERSITY \\r\\nTOWARDS DISABILITY PEOPLE

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.15

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Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the attitudes of the managers and officers towards disabled people by using Questionnaire of Attitude Scale Towards Disabled (QASTD) and related factors. \\r\\nMethods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Erciyes University on 427 people working as managers and officers. Data were collected with a Socio-demographic data form and the Questionnaire of Attitude Scale Towards Disabled (QASTD). \\r\\nResults: The mean QASTD score was 77.94�19.74, while that of educational environment was 5.16�2.24, personal characteristics was 13.73�4.86, working life was 16.08�5.00, interpersonal relationships was 15.03�5.02, family life was 7.02�2.29, and competency-independent life was 20.90�6.40. Men, older age groups, secondary school graduates and those who have a disabled person in his/her life had more positive attitudes towards disabled people. \\r\\nConclusion: The mean scores obtained from the QASTD scale and subscales were lower than the cut-off points used for the division of negative and positive attitudes. \\r\\nKeywords: Disability, Attitude, QASTD score, Manager, Officer

Author(s): Vesile SENOL, Fevziye Cetinkaya, Melis Nacar, Zeynep Baykan, Mehmet Dogan


ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF EXTERNAL CONDITIONS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF RUSSIAN PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTION

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.6

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Abstract: Today the Russian pharmaceutical industry is one of the high-tech industries of economy. The state industrial policy has encouraged high investment and innovative activity in the industry. Russian companies are actively involved in the implementation of the import substitution strategy, which will reduce the dependence of the Russian economy on imports and develop its own production. The objective of this research is identification of external environment factors influencing development of the entities of pharmaceutical industry for the evolvement of strategic directions for further development. This article carries out assessment of external factors which influence the entities of pharmaceutical industry. The correlation model is constructed and the actual factors influencing development of pharmaceutical production are revealed. The regression model reflecting the dependence of amounts of release of pharmaceutical products on the change of factors of an external environment in dynamics from 2006 to 2016 is constructed. The realistic scenario of the production scope change for major pharmaceutical groups is constructed. The interrelation between macrofactors of the Russian pharmaceutical industry development and the amounts of its production are confirmed and measured in the research. This research is a reason for discussion and further studying of development of reasonable recommendations in order to change or refine the state industrial policy. The directions of further researches are connected with deeper studying of causes of relationships between production volumes and macrofactors, as well as with the assessment of time distribution of macroeconomic consequences of purposeful impact on a size of the considered factors.

Author(s): N. Borscheva, Y.Fedorova, M.Glukhova, E. Fedorov


ANALYSIS OF THE REFORMS PROCESS IN UN FROM PRISM OF THE POLITICAL PERSONALITIES

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.14

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Abstract: To come to a conclusion when making the analysis of proposals on the reforms for reinforcement of the UN\'s activities in connection with changing historical and political situation is an actual problem. The new global problems emerged in the 90-es changed the character of UN operations.A few number of offers about reforms have been proposed in connection with their carrying out in the mechanism of prevention, solution to the regional conflicts. B.B.Qali, K.Annan note broadening the composition of the Security Council, preventing the veto right putting in order some conflicts. It is expedient to liquidate the veto right, to elect a representative of the Germany, Japan, India, Brazil, Turkey, Africa. It is possible to consider the thought of the High-level Group on Danger and Changes, to elect 8 members by a new category for period in 4 years as constant members of the Security Council. Problems discussed in the some organs must be brought to the General Assambly anew and must be decided with the majority of 3/2 voices. This rule will allow to affirm once again the sovereignty rights of the states represented in UN. Collaboration of the organizations having specialized, international finance institutes, non-governmental organizations with the General Assambly, Security Council, Economical and Social Council, Secretariat will promote carrying out efficiently peacemaking. The collaboration should be ashieved between the Security Council and International Court. If the Security Council can not define the aggression act, the International Court must implement this right. If the activities of the Military Staff Committee of UN strengthenes and if they have enough peace aim strength, the need in military power of the NATO will vanish.\r\nThe collaboration with the regional and subregional organizations must be implemented according to the VIIIth part of the Charter of UN. The greater state of a region will be able to work to implement special interests in the region. At the same time the regional organization cannot alone put in order conflicts.

Author(s): Dadashova Ramila

THE HUMAN CAPITAL OF THE COUNTRY MUST BE ASTRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OBJECT

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.8

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Abstract: The article focuses on the concept of human capital in the context of radical changes in society, theoretical models of impact of human capital on economic increase, the role of general education in the human capital, the traditional indicator of economic progress in the knowledge economy, the GDP of the state of the national economy in full reflect the economic development of the social factors that cannot be quantified precisely defined characteristics and emphasizes the need to develop the strategic management of human capital as the object is justified.

Author(s): Muslim Nazarov

ASSESSMENT OF PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF WATER EXTRACT PROPOLIS AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF DROSHOPHYLA MELANOGASTER EXPOSED UV IRRADIATION

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.3

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Abstract: Levels of transaminase enzymes are influenced by environmental factors. These enzymes commonly measured as biomarkers for life health. The main aim of this study was to determine the effects of ultraviolet irradiations on serum levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase in Droshophyla melanogaster and was to evaluate the effect of water extract of propolis against UV treated D. melanogaster. Propolis biological activities have principally been attributed to its phenolic compounds, notable for significant antioxidant properties responsible for reducing the toxic effects of free radicals. UVA irradiation caused significant changes in both total soluble protein and transaminase enzymes as compared to control. The results indicated that level of aspartate transaminase has a significant decrease. Exposure to ultraviolet irradiations may lead to side effects. The data showed that propolis at 25 mg/ml concentrations exerted a certain influence on biochemical parameters studied. Treatment group (Propolis then UV irradiation) demonstrated the anticytotoxic properties of water extract of propolis on cross. The water extract of propolis exhibited protective effect against UVA irradiations. Poliphenols in propolis can reduce UV irradiation induced DNA damage.

Author(s): Meltem Maras, A. Kekillioglu, Y. Saygili, Selda Bahadir


THE INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES ON HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF FOUNDATION PHASE LEARNERS IN SIBASA CIRCUIT OF LIMPOPO PROVINCE

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.16

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Abstract: The school environment is caring and allows learners to develop good health and well-being during physical movement activities. Physical movement activities are essential for successful learning and happy lives for children. This paper aimed at exploring the role of movement activities on good health and well-being of Foundation Phase learners. The study adopted a qualitative case study design. All Foundation Phase teachers were part of this study, but only eight sampled teachers participated. Interviews were used as the main and sole data collection tool and data analysed thematically. The study found that in schools, some teachers use movement activities to make learners aware of certain basic concepts through movement. Some teachers were experiencing problem of enageing learners in movement activiries due to unauthentic environment. There were gaps that emerged from interviews as teachers were not aware that movement activities were associated with health outcomes in schools. The study recommends that teachers should be equipped with theoretical knowledge on how learners can learn through movement. teachers should be encouraged to engage learners in movement activities every day for their healthy development and well-being. Teachers should be motivated to implement correct programmes as stated in the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement which serves as a vital role in developing learner�s movement abilities. Keywords: Child Development, , Physical actvity, School Environment, Health promotion, cognitive development

Author(s): Shonisani Agnes Mulovhedzi, Ndileleni Paulinah Mudzielwana


THE ROLE OF ULTRASONICATION AND ROSE WATER ADDITION ON THE PRESERVATION OF A NOVEL COMPLEMENTARY FOOD FROM PERSIMMON PUREE AND HAZELNUT FLOUR: CERTAIN CHEMICAL, PHYSICAL AND MICROBIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.5

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Abstract: Complementary feeding practices are fundamental to infant's nutrition, health, and survival during the first two years of life, as well as the elder in the last. In this study, a novel complementary food, produced from persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki L.) and hazelnut (Corylus spp.) flour treated with ultrasonication and rose water (eau de rose) is developed to support the nutrition and life of the beings mentioned above. Persimmon fruit is an important source of phenolic compounds, vitamin C, antioxidants, glucose, dietary fiber, and carotenoids and has been shown to have the positive impact on cardiovascular and immune systems, decrease certain type of cancers and help maintain a healthy vision. On the other hand, hazelnut flour is a good source of protein, dietary fiber, and fat. Ultrasonication, a non-thermal method, solely or in combination with rose water displayed antimicrobial properties in a previous study conducted in our laboratories on fruit juices. According to our study, no pathogenic microorganisms were observed by the combination of ultrasound and rose water on the complementary food and this treatment positively affects the development of the consumer in terms of biochemical and nutritional composition. When compared to control, there were no significant differences in the treatment groups in terms of pH, fat, sugar, and total nitrogen. Moreover, no allergen and aflatoxin were detected. The taste panel showed that there were no significant differences between the treatment groups.

Author(s): H. Dilek ULUSAN, Seyhun YURDUGUL, Hulya YAMAN


THE CHANGING FACE OF ORGANISATIONS: UNDERSTANDING HOW THE GENERATIONS DIFFER IN ORDER TO INTEGRATE THEM EFFECTIVELY

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.12

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Abstract: This study compares the perceptions of employees across generations of specific organisational dimensions, namely, external values/rewards, an interesting and motivating work environment, learning and diversity, flexible and efficient work arrangements, workplace fun and constant growth and advancement in the workplace. The population comprised of 300 employees in a municipal department from which a sample of 93 employees was drawn using cluster sampling. Data was collected using a questionnaire whose psychometric properties were assessed. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Significant differences and similarities were noted amongst Baby Boomers, Generation Xers and millennials regarding the dimensions of the study. Based on the results of the study, recommendations are made that contribute to integrating the various generations in the workforce more cohesively as they work towards goal accomplishment.

Author(s): Beatrice Elizabeth Nnambooze, Sanjana Brijball Parumasur


THE USE OF COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT (CAT) IN ASTHMATIC CHILDREN AND DETERMINATION OF AFFECTING FACTORS

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.10

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Abstract: ABSTRACT\\r\\nObjective: The study was designed to identify the status of using alternative treatment in families who had an asthmatic child and their reasons for applying an alternative treatment. Method: The universe of this descriptive study consisted of 339 families whose children were receiving treatment in Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit of a public hospital between December 2016 and March 2017 and who agreed to participate in the study. The data were collected using \\\"Questionnaire Form\\\" which was prepared by researchers in accordance with the literature. The data were evaluated in the SPSS 20.0 software. Averages and percentages were used for the evaluation. Findings: The average age of the cases was 6.78�3.37 and 41% of them were girls. 68.1% of the cases lived in the city center. About half of the parents were primary school graduates. The majority of the mothers were housewives, and about half of the fathers worked as a worker. A large majority of the cases with asthma complaints for 3.10�2.49 years in average used medication and nearly half of the parents of these children were satisfied with the medication that their children used. 49.3% of the cases used the complementary and alternative treatment (CAT) method. The most commonly used CAT methods were honey (20.4%) and honey and ginger mix (19.8%). Approximately half of the cases have been using CAT for less than 6 months. 68.9% of the cases began to use CAT because they believed that it would support the treatment. The proportion of the parents who used CAT for themselves (the majority of them used it for acute upper respiratory tract infections) was 16.8%. The most commonly used CAT methods by parents were herbal tea (29.8%) and honey (26.3%). Among the socio-demographic characteristics of the cases, the occupation of the parents was found to affect the use of CAT (p>0.05). Among the factors associated with the asthma treatment and the use of CAT, medication use, satisfaction with the medication used, and the use of CAT by parents were found to affect the use of CAT (p>0.05).Conclusion: Almost half of the cases were using CAT. The occupation of the parents, individual\\\'s use of medication, satisfaction with the medication used, and the use of CAT by the parents affected the use of CAT. Since the use of CAT is known to be able to affect the effect of medication used by individuals and the treatment process, it was suggested to give training to the parents of asthmatic children on the disadvantages of unconscious CAT use.\\r\\n\\r\\nKeywords: Asthma, child, use of CAT

Author(s): Eda unal, Aysel Ozdemir, Hicran Yildiz, Gurkan Kilic


NEED ANALYSIS OF THE STUDENTS OF GRADUATION IN ENGLISH THROUGH ERROR ANALYSIS

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.2

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Abstract: This study aims at conducting an analysis of the errors committed by the students of graduation in English and knowing their study needs. The sample of data, comprising of 50 answer books of the final term examination, was obtained from a small public sector university in the central Punjab (Pakistan). Findings of the study show that the students of such a higher level of studies still commit errors in their writing. It has been observed that the students commit 3 types of errors in their writing i.e. inter-lingual, intra-lingual and developmental errors with different frequency and percentage ratio. Total number of errors found was 1015. Out of which the frequency of inter-lingual, intra-lingual and developmental errors was 21, 34 and 45 percent respectively. In this way, inter-lingual and developmental errors were found to be minimum and maximum in percentage respectively. The study states various reasons in detail and suggests practicable remedies for these errors.

Author(s): Muhammad Ahmad, Muhammad Ahmad, Ammara Farukh, Muhammad Kamran Abbas Ismail, Marya Sarwar


THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IRANIAN LEARNING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (EFL) AND TEACHERS' AWARENESS OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE (ICC)

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.9

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Abstract: In this work, we have investigated the relationship between Iranian learning English as a Foreign Language teachers’ intercultural competence and their teaching efficacy regarding their experience, gender, and their education level. The research method including participants and sampling procedure, the research instruments, the data collection procedure, and the data analysis are described. The results indicate that, there is no significant relationship between Iranian learning English language as a Forein Language, EFL, teachers' intercultural communicative competence and their teaching efficacy with regards to their level of experience, their level of education is concerned, their gender, teachers’ intercultural communicative competence awareness. Our approaches in this study are in agreement with the previously reports.

Author(s): Hosein Rezaei Behbahani, Mohammad Bagher Shabani*


VOLUNTARY INGESTION OF A HIGH-FAT HIGH-CARBOHYDRATE DIET: A MODEL FOR PREDIABETES

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.11

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Abstract: Type 2 diabetes is normally preceded by pre-diabetes, a condition that is not well established in animal models for diabetes. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a high-fat high-carbohydrate diet in the development of prediabetes. Animals were randomly assigned to the following diets ad libitum during experimentation; standard rat chow (ND+H2O), modern high-fat high-carbohydrate (HFHC+Fructose), high-fructose (ND+Fructose) and a high-fat high-carbohydrate (HFHC+H2O). We measured blood glucose, total cholesterol and triglyceride concentration, OGT response and the HOMA-IR index. Body weight gain, food intake, fluid intake and caloric intake were also monitored. Plasma insulin, ghrelin, leptin and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were also measured. When compared to the other groups, the OGT response in correspondence with AUCglucose values in HFHC+Frucose group resulted in increased blood glucose concentration. This was accompanied by an increase in caloric intake, glucose, triglyceride and HbA1c concentration despite no difference in body weight gain. There was an increase in plasma insulin and ghrelin concentration while plasma leptin concentration was decreased. The HOMA-IR value was above 2.9 in the HFHC+Fructose group suggesting the presence of insulin resistance. Voluntary ingestion of a high-fat high-carbohydrate diet with fructose leads to sustained high blood glucose concentration despite increased plasma insulin concentration that is associated with increased HbA1c and ghrelin concentration suggesting reduced insulin sensitivity. This suggests that this model can be used to investigate pre-diabetes effects that emanate from voluntary ingestion of a high-fat high-carbohydrate diet with fructose thus opening new avenues for better understanding of this condition.

Author(s): Andile Khathi, Mluleki Luvuno, Musa Mabandla


THE EXPERIENCES OF FP TEACHERS IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF ANNUAL NATIONAL ASSESSMENT SURVEY: A CASE STUDY OF 3 RURAL SCHOOLS

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.13

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Abstract: There is abundant evidence from research and reports from the Department of Education that the quality of education in South Africa remains very poor. In an attempt to improve the quality of education, the South African government introduced the Annual National Assessment as a strategy to monitor the level and quality of basic education and to ensure that every child receives high quality education. This article seeks to explore experiences of Foundation Phase teachers in order to determine successes and hindrances in the effectiveness of Annual National Assessment as a strategy. This is a case study of three primary schools which adopted qualitative approach. Data were collected through focus group discussion. Content analysis was used to analyse data thematically. Ten teachers participated in the study. The findings highlighted that although teachers supported the implementation of Annual National Assessment as an assessment strategy, there were gaps and concerns raised by teachers, namely: lack of benefits to the learners, time consuming and waste of money. The article recommends that teachers must be consulted before the Department of basic Education takes such a decision; Annual National Assessment survey must not be a continuous process, but must be conducted every three years. Teachers must undergo professional development programmes in order to improve the quality and functionality of education.

Author(s): Ndileleni Paulinah Mudzielwana, Shonisani Agenes Mulovhedzi


OBESITY AND SEDENTARISM LEVELS ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY UNIVERSIDAD TECNICA DE AMBATO-INGAHURCO CAMPUS

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.7

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Abstract: The main cause of weight gain is sedentary lifestyle and physical inactivity. The sedentary lifestyle is considered a "deadly epidemic" as one of the four factors of greatest risk, estimating that 3.2 million people die because of this factor. Physical inactivity is increasing in the population; studies show that 60% of the population worldwide does not perform physical activity necessary to maintain their health, in part due to sedentary behavior during work and domestic activities (WHO). This has become a public health problem that presents a large mortality risk factor. Remaining several hours a day in front of a computer doing administrative work activities is also a cause that contributes to weight gain and obesity. Our study proposes the analysis of body composition, the level of physical activity and / or sedentary lifestyle in the administrative workers belonging to the Ingahurco campus of Universidad T�cnica de Ambato, for which an analytical, descriptive design with a quantitative approach was used, through the application of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the calculation of the Body Mass Index (BMI) in 219 study subjects. The results show that 46.66% present overweight problems and obesity, 26.48% do not perform any type of walk, while 66.21% of administrative workers work in a sitting position between seven and eight hours a day, confirming in 96.35% the need to implement a plan of active breaks.

Author(s): Julio Mocha Bonilla, Dennis Jose Hidalgo Alava, J. Mauricio Vizuete Munoz, Nathaly Jhoana Vaca Castro


IS INFINITY PURELY ARITHMETICAL IN NATURE?

Volume 74, May 2018
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2018.5.1

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Abstract: In this article we highlight some of the main contours of the urge towards the infinite in order to focus on the twofold role of infinity in mathematics. Our brief discussion of the discovery of the wholeparts relation explains the switch from infinity as endlessness to infinity turned �inwards�, evinced in the infinite divisibility of (spatial) continuity. The traditional Aristotelian distinction between the potential infinite and the actual infinite constitutes the background of our subsequent analysis which touches upon Zeno's paradoxes and Aristotle's objections to the actual infinite. Since Descartes mathematicians increasingly reverted the relation between the potential infinite and the actual infinite by considering the latter as the basis of the former. The historical dominance of the potential infinite was eventually challenged by Cantor in his transfinite arithmetic. Weyl even portrayed mathematics as the science of the infinite. However, this view prompts us to analyse in more detail what the difference between the potential infinite and the actual infinite really is. Cantor's own definition of these two kinds of infinity serves as the starting-point of our ensuing analysis. It is argued that set theory (while employing the actual infinite) crucially depends upon �borrowing� (imitating) key features from space, namely the just-mentioned whole-parts relation and the spatial (time) order of simultaneity (at once). A spatially deepened account of the nature of real numbers has to consider them as being present at once. Attention is also given to the objections raised by Paul Bernays, the coworker of David Hilbert, regarding the assumed arithmetization of modern mathematics. Bernays argues that it is the totality character of continuity (which is originally a geometrical notion) resisting a complete airthmetization of mathematics. It is striking that the spatial feature of wholeness receives opposing interpretations in the thought of Bernays and Brouwer. The former explores the totality character of the continuum whereas the latter focuses on the whole-parts relation. Ultimately the impossibility to articulate the nature of the at once infinite without (implicitly or explicitly) exploring key elements of space therefore uproots the claims of arithmeticism. Although the potential infinite is purely arithmetical in nature, the actual infinite is not, because no single account of it succeeded in avoiding the above-mentioned key spatial characteristics. Lorenzen aptly points out that arithmetic provides no motif for introducing the at once infinite. Therefore the question posed in the title of this article, namely: �Is infinity purely arithmetical in nature?� should be answered in a twofold way: (i) The potential infinite (successive infinite) is a purely arithmetical concept, whereas (ii) the actual infinite (at once infinite) is not purely numerical in nature. Some of the key elements of the argument is captured in the Figure inserted in paragraph 22.

Author(s): Danie Strauss