Archive of Journal
Volume 72, Issue 7, Jul. 2016

INTRODUCING TABLET DEVICES DURING MATHEMATICS EDUCATION: "IS IT REALLY A MAGICAL LEARNING TOOL?”

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.30

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Abstract: This paper reports on the introduction of the tablet device as a mobile learning tool during the course mathematics. This study involves nine classes with 164 seventh grade students in total. A comparison is made between students who use tablet devices during the course mathematics (experimental condition) and students who attain this course in a traditional (no device) way (control condition). Based on the self-determination theory, students� motivation towards learning, the perceived individual support and students� achievement on a mathematic test is measured. Results show that experiencing higher levels of support leads to higher levels of autonomous motivation to learn mathematics. Higher levels of autonomous motivation lead in turn to higher scores on the mathematics test. While students� perceptions towards learning with tablets are positive, results show that students in the experimental condition performed lower compared to students in the control condition, despite experiencing more individualized support when they learn with tablets. As a conclusion, although the use of tablet devices can be an added value to the learning experience of students; these are no magical learning tools and the introduction of these devices does not ensure learning. These results challenge teaching practices and invite manifold areas for further research.

Author(s): Hannelore Montrieux, Tammy Schellens, Jouri Van Landeghem, Tania Mouton


TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE ECO-SYSTEMS IN IRAN, THE WAY OF THE SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.12

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Abstract: This paper discusses issues related Sustainability and Iranian traditional architecture. Sustainable architecture has a main role in the world of architecture nowadays. In any parts of the world architects try to suggest new methods for sustainability. Accordingly, traditional Iranian architecture, it is observed that Iranian architectural characteristics conform to the rules of sustainable architecture and can obtain sustainability in modern architecture by being reveled by certain features of traditional Iranian one. The aim of this research is to demonstrate traditional architecture in Hot-Arid climate and humid and rainy region which embraces the southern shores of the Caspian Sea of Iran as tow samples of sustainable architecture. Result of this paper; show that considering the experience in traditional architecture of hot-aired regions, it is possible to create an environmental and sustainable architecture for todays and future in Iran. By suggesting new ways to transfer sustainable elements in our modern buildings we could have the best choice for our generation both in energy and in culture.

Author(s): Zahra Ghomi-Avili

BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS IN RIBES NIGRUM L. VARIETIES CULTIVATED IN BUCHAREST AREA\r\n

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.29

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Abstract: The aim of this paper was to investigate the natural variation of biochemical compounds in two varieties of fruits belonging to Ribes nigrum L. species during maturation process, grown in Bucharest area. The fruits from Kzvana, and Roxia varieties were collected in the following phenological stages: early fistfruits (SIII), advanced firstfruit (SIV), harvesting maturity (SV), and consumption maturity (SVI). The fruits were smashed and subjected to extraction using 50 % etanolic solution. Total phenolic content (TPC) expressed as gallic acid equivalent (GAE), total flavonoid content (TFC) expressed as rutin equivalet (RE), and free radical scavenging activity (FRSA) expressed as ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE) of extracts, were determined. Also, the influence of total phenolic and flavonoid content on free radical scavenging activity was studied. The fruits of the varieties differed considerably in their phenolic content during the maturation process. Thus, the maximum value of TPC was achieved by the fruits of Kzvana variety in SV stage with 7.36 mM GAE/ml extract. With regard to the flavonoid content were highlighted the fruits of Roxia variety in SVI stage with 1.24 mM RE/mL extract. With regard to FRSA, were highlighted the fruits of Kzvana variety in the last stage of maturation process.

Author(s): Carmen Gabriela Manole, Maria Paraschiv, Adrian Asanica, Liliana Badulescu


RURAL GRAIN PRODUCTION FORECAST BASED ON COMBINATION FORECASTING MODEL

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.24

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Abstract: Econometrics forecasting exists accuracy problem, general rural grain production forecast method have Cobb-Douglas production function model, multiple linear regression model. With the difference of forecasting results between these two methods, therefore, in this paper introduces combination forecasting model to solve the above problem. Combination forecasting model adopted to improve prediction accuracy. The contributions of this paper build Cobb-Douglas production function model, multiple linear regression models, and combination forecasting model and offered procedures in its entirety solutions. This paper indicates combination forecasting model optimal solution and uses the calculated error metrics to measure the accuracy of these three prediction methods. By analyzing different indicators, we find that the combination forecasting model is superior to two other models in application. This paper can be used as an example about the forecast theory and practice problem.

Author(s): Ming-Chang Lee, Li-Er Su2


WIKI-BASED COLLABORATIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE BLENDED COURSE

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.16

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Abstract: The article emphasizes the educational potential of wikis for learning foreign languages. It focuses on students’ collaboration based on integration of different types of activities within a highly motivating blended learning environment where learners can interact and share their ideas. The study aims to understand if wikis could enhance online collaboration and positively affect students’ attitudes to group work. It tries to explore the level of participation and contribution of students in wiki-based activities, as well as their attitude to this type of online collaboration.

Author(s): Tatiana Krasnova, Tatiana Gorbatova, Alexandra Kudryashova, Anna Popova


POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL AND JOB PERFORMANCE: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF JOB SATISFACTION

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.17

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Abstract: The present research aims to explore the relationship between positive psychological capital and job performance among instructors in Philadelphia University, Jordan. Furthermore, it investigates the effect of job satisfaction on the relationship between positive psychological capital and job performance as a mediator variable. Survey data collected from 110 instructors from eight faculties in Philadelphia University. The results show high levels of positive psychological capital, job performance and job satisfaction among the instructors. Also, job satisfaction found to mediate the relationship between positive psychological capital and job performance.

Author(s): Omar Durrah, Abdlukarim Alhamoud, Khaliquzzaman Khan


DRIVING BUSINESS SUCCESS THROUGH KEY ORGANIZATIONAL DRIVERS OF EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT - CASE STUDY

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.28

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Abstract: Faced with the constant changing nature of work and diversity of workforce, modern management is increasingly investing in policies and practices that strengthen employee’s engagement. Starting from the importance of the concept of overall organizational performance, the study elaborates on the concept of a particular case. It contributes to the on-going debate on drivers of employee engagement through examining the current level of engagement under the influence of nine (9) organizational dimensions of successful business. The study consists of five components: evolution of the concept and its definition; review of key drivers of engagement models for analysis of the concept, research methodology, results and discussion of proposed measures on strategies for developing the concept in the present case, analysis and conclusion. The development of employee engagement is based on understanding the antecedents and consequences of the construct. From the perspective of practitioners, the primary driver of the concept is the organizational HR system. Most drivers that lead to employee engagement are non-financial in their nature and in general are the result of the proper alignment of HR practices. Using established methodology, the main aim of this study (paper) is to identify the key engagement driver in the organization through several hypotheses. Keywords: employee engagement, employee engagement key drivers, index of satisfaction / engagement of employees

Author(s): Dr. Kate Trajkova, Dr. Marko Andonov, Dr. Zoran Mihajloski, Dr.Ljupcho Petkukjeski,Dr.Samir Latif


VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR LEVELS (VEGF) IN GINGIVAL BIOPSIES OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC OR AGGRESSIVE PERIODONTITIS

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.19

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Abstract: Background: The aim of the study was to compare the VEGF levels in gingival tissues of patients with aggressive and chronic periodontitis and clinically healthy individuals. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients with generalized chronic periodontitis, 15 patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis, and 15 systemically and periodontally healthy subjects were included in this study. Gingival tissue specimens were obtained through the buccal area adjacent to the teeth. VEGF levels were assessed by using immunohistochemical staining. Results: Intensity of the subepithelial inflammation values was significantly lower in the control group compared to the diseased groups (p<0.001). There were no significant differences between the aggressive and chronic periodontitis groups. The cell population of subepithelial inflammation values was significantly lower in the control group compared to the diseased groups (p<0.001). Statistically significant higher inflammation values were observed in aggressive periodontitis group compared to the chronic periodontitis group (p<0.001). The intensity of VEGF values was significantly lower in the control group compared to the diseased groups (p<0.001). Highest VEGF values were observed in aggressive periodontitis group. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that VEGF overexpression in patients with chronic and aggressive periodontitis. Our findings reveal the significance of VEGF in aggressive and chronic periodontitis pathogenesis. Key Words: Generalized Chronic Periodontitis, Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

Author(s): Canan ONDER, Sivge KURGAN1, Nur BALCI2, Zeliha GUNEY1, Muhittin A. SERDAR3, Omer GUNHAN4, Meral GUNHAN1


SIMILARITY MEASURES FOR NUMERICAL DATA. SOME INEQUALITIES CONCERNING RUZICKA SIMILARITY

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.10

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Abstract: The statistical study use the similarity measures to estimate the degree of likeness between two non-negative n-dimensional real vectors. In this paper we define a similarity for numerical data and we prove some inequalities involving this one and Ruzicka similarity.

Author(s): Alina Constantinescu

MODELING AND OPTIMIZATION OF PILLARING PROCESS USING EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN PROCEDURE

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.18

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Abstract: Calcium bentonite from Orasu Nou deposit (Romania) has been used in order to prepare Al-pillared clays, which are microporous materials with special properties. The pillaring process consists in the following steps: bentonite purification, ionic exchange of bentonite, preparation of pillaring agent, intercalation of the exchanged bentonite with pillaring agent and calcination. During calcination process the polyhydroxocation is transformed into an oxide which is strong fixed into the clay interlayer. The pillared clays present a rigid structure, a high termic stability given by the oxido-metallic pillars formed after calcinations. This paper presents the application of the kn experiment design procedure for simulation and optimization of the Al(III)-pillaring process. There were performed 9 experiments according to the experimental design procedure. The input variables were calcination temperature (x1) and calcination duration (x2) and the output variable was the basal distance (Y). The material with the optimum calcination parameters will be chosen in the aim of its using in liquid effluents depollution.

Author(s): Georgescu Ana-Maria, Muntianu Gabriela, Nistor Ileana Denisa, Nardou Francoise


OHM'S LAW IS THE GENERAL LAW OF EXACT SCIENCES

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.9

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Abstract: It is shown that Ohm�s law in the interpretation of Steinmetz and special theory of relativity are antagonists in solving the problem of physical reality of concrete imaginary numbers, since Ohm's law has solved this problem successfully, whereas special theory of relativity has postulated impossibility of its solving. Therefore, being influenced by the special theory of relativity the problem has not been solved in the theory of electrical circuits, and the question of physical reality of imaginary reactance of capacitors and inductors has been left open. The paper proves physical reality of imaginary numbers. Physical reality of capacitive and inductive reactances is proved, including by Ohm's law. And thereby it proves the fallacy of the current version of the special theory of relativity. The paper presents the adjusted version of the special theory of relativity, which enables to develop a hypothesis of the hidden Multiverse. Parallel universes of such a Multiverse are mutually invisible in relation to each other, as they are in different dimensions. The hypothesis is confirmed by the data obtained by WMAP and Planck spacecrafts. It also explains the astrophysical phenomenon of dark matter and dark energy, which, in turn, is an experimental confirmation of existence of the hidden Multiverse.

Author(s): Alexander Alexandrovich Antonov

CAN LOWERING THE REQUIREMENT FOR ENTRY INTO AN HONOURS PROGRAM ACTUALLY IMPROVE THE THROUGHPUT RATE IN THAT PROGRAM?

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.11

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Abstract: To be able to enrol in an honours program at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), a weighted average mark for one�s final year of undergraduate study has to exceed a particular threshold value. Students are then ranked according to this weighted average mark, with entry into the honours program being offered on a top-down basis providing teaching resources and space constraints permit. Students who have not completed their undergraduate studies at UKZN are also able to apply for entry into an honours program at UKZN. Not having a UKZN-based undergraduate mark on which to perform a suitable ranking, their requirement for entry becomes a lot more subjective in nature. Is UKZN compromising the quality of their honours program by offering places to these so-called �foreign� students at the expense of other ` home-grown� UKZN based undergraduate applicants who have been refused an entry because their weighted average mark for their final year of undergraduate study did not exceed the required threshold value? Can one lower the threshold value for entry into honours for UKZN undergraduates and be assured that these home-grown students will perform as well if not better than the cohort of foreign students who are currently taking their place? \nBy lowering the requirement for entry into honours for these home grown students, one is being asked to predict how they will perform in honours based on a prediction model that will have been created from a sample of UKZN undergraduate students that does not include this new cohort of students. In a regression context one is being asked to predict outside the range of one�s collected data. Apart from having a lower weighted average mark, this new cohort of students may differ in other unobservable ways from those UKZN students who are currently being allowed into an honours program. A Heckman selection model needs to be fitted in order to overcome a possible self -selection bias that may arise because the subpopulation we are wanting to predict from -namely those new students who will now be able to enter an honours program�may be significantly different from the current population of UKZN undergraduate students who are being allowed to enter an honours program.

Author(s): Mike Murray

GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES AS AN IMPORTANT RURAL HERITAGE TO MITIGATE THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FROM TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT IN ANDEAN REGION

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.14

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Abstract: The remote and vulnerable regions of the Andean Cordillera, piedmont areas and valleys, hold a rich heritage and a vast potential for the rural development. The past decade a concern grew out about the complexity and dynamics of the territorial transformation in Argentina. The absence of planning and regulations that seek proper land use and the resources distribution, show that some territorial processes in various scales will irreparably affect the long-term local sustainability. This research work is aimed at proposing rational guidelines for resource and land usage in the Valley of Iglesia of northern San Juan, Argentina, through the valuation of heritage and natural resources, specifically the optimized usage of geothermal energy sources of this region. Therefore, a territorial strategy has been devised to assess the local heritage, their characteristics and the level of social involvement of the communities and the incoming entrepreneurships towards the conservation of their patrimony and natural ecosystems. Furthermore in this study, a critical area prone to irreversible deterioration has been detected, for which case a comprehensive tourist project has been proposed while considering the rational resource and land usage through the consensus and motivation for action of all parties involved. It is concluded that the patrimonial identity constitutes the genetic value of culture to find better solutions for rural development. The intrinsic relationship of the geothermal potential and the community, is considered as true agent of development for heritage conservation, diversification of land use and community inclusion.

Author(s): Mattioli Luisa, Kuchen Ernesto


A REVIEW ON THE ROLE OF DESIGNATED NON-FINANCIAL BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS (DNFBPS) AS A PREVENTIVE MEASURES IN MITIGATING MONEY LAUNDERING

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.6

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Abstract: Abstract� Designated Nonfinancial Business and Professions (DNFBPs) comprised professionals such as lawyers, accountants, company secretaries and real estate agents who are classified as reporting institutions by the international agency Financial Action Task Force (FATF). As reporting institutions, DNFBPs are expected to comply to the requirements of FATF Recommendations which include the need to (i) conduct due diligent on their clients, (ii) maintain proper records and documentation of related transactions for at least six years and (iii) submit a suspicious transaction report to the Competent Authority, who is in charge of anti-money laundering regime of a country. In trying to examine the role of DNFBPs, this study analyzes the latest Mutual Evaluation reports of countries within the Asia Pacific Region. The Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering (Also known as APG) assesses the level of compliance of these countries on the stipulated FATF�s 40 + 9 Recommendations. Specifically, the DNFBPs need to comply with five major recommendations (i.e. Recommendations 12, 16, 17, 20, 24 and 25). In general, the findings show low level of compliance for these standards, implicating either lack of awareness or poor enforcement by the regulators.

Author(s): INTAN SALWANI MOHAMED, NORMAH OMAR, ZULAIKHA 'AMIRAH JOHARI


RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ACCOUNTING CONSERVATISM, CAPITAL STRUCTURE, AND SALE IN INTERNATIONAL MARKETS

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.5

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Abstract: One of the important and effective factors on profit & loss of a company and its management is conservatism in different time periods. Thus, the goal of this research is studying whether capital structure is important in determination of profitability and corporate performance. In addition, this research studies how much the relation between conservatism and capital structure was affected by corporate presence in international markets.\r\nData for 115 companies from 2009-2014 (6 years) was studied by EViews by combinational data and regression.\r\nThe results show no relation between conservatism and capital structure. Also, presence in international markets does not affect the relation between these variables.

Author(s): Zahra Ebrahimi, Ali Shahsavari, Azar Moslemi


(RE)-FORMING PRE-SERVICE MATHEMATICS TEACHER EDUCATION

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.4

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Abstract: South African mathematics results are generally poorer than the results of similar tests administered in other parts of the world. Often, secondary school teachers attribute blame to the primary school teachers� inability to teach well enough, and primary school teachers blame parents for the learners� poor performances. Wherever the blame resides, it is evident that South African mathematics learners struggle to make meaning of the mathematics they are taught. It seems that pre-service teachers may themselves not fully understand the mathematics. It may be that pre-service teachers are insufficiently prepared for the job of teaching mathematics for understanding. This paper examines the knowledge, including the knowledge of slopes, that 4th year Bachelor of Education pre-service secondary school teachers possess and makes the claim that these pre-service teachers are challenged to the extent that they become teachers despite their lack of content knowledge. Sixty nine questionnaires submitted by final year pre-service teachers were analysed and their knowledge discussed. This paper takes the position that some of the challenges in mathematics education need to be addressed in pre-service teacher training programmes. The intention of the paper is to engender discourses about improving teacher training at higher educational institutions. It serves the goal of addressing the needs of mathematics education in South Africa and possibly throughout the world.

Author(s): Vimolan Mudaly

THE ROLE OF KNOWLEDGE IN STUDENT OPINIONS ON GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS: AN INTERVENTION STUDY

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.2

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Abstract: Biotechnology, which includes genetic modification (GM), is often considered as a controversial topic. An intervention study was set up - involving 575 sixth year secondary school students - to investigate the nature of students� acquisition of factual information about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and how this is linked to how they cope with new factual scientific information and/or opinions. Before, during and after the intervention, students completed a questionnaire measuring their knowledge, perceived risks and benefits, attitudes towards and willingness to eat (WTE) GMOs. Acquiring novel scientific information increased students� scores related to perceived benefits, and attitude, while their scores on risk perception decreased. Hearing others� opinion on GMOs (combined pro- and anti-GM) had the opposite effect on related student scores. Further, the results suggest the order in which opinion and factual information are addressed in class does not affect students� attitude and WTE GMOs as long as both are considered. However, students� perception of risks and benefits differ depending on the order of the intervention phases. These results combined with the observed fluctuations in the studied variables during the intervention recommend both factual scientific information and the controversial GM debate are to be addressed in class � as early as possible - to develop clear and balanced scientific conceptions and a personal opinion.

Author(s): Jasmien Maes, Godelieve Gheysen, Martin Valcke


WHAT FOR: CLASSIFICATION OF VISUAL PARADIGMS

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.3

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Abstract: During the past 20 years, taxonomies have been defined to classify visualization paradigms. However, none of these taxonomies have been based on what the visualization wants to emphasize. This article proposes a classification based on data relationships and appropriate visualization paradigms to emphasize specific types of goals.

Author(s): Franklin Hernandez-Castro, Jorge Monge-Fallas


THE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT FOR THE CATERING SERVICES DEVELOPMENT IN THE PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.27

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Abstract: The article goal is to formulate a strategic management as a practical tool in order to determine the implication of the national administrative organisms in the development of complete catering services in the residential area of the public universities.\r\nIn the public university there is no specifically legal regulation for the creation or functioning of any type of catering services, in part, because of the university autonomy.\r\nThe proposed strategy involves the setting of the basic management functions-planning, organizing, staff motivating and controlling -in the Catering Department of all Public Universities.\r\nThe article propose the promotion of the Law Project entitled ” The development of Public Catering Services in the Higher Education Institutions” and present the procedure step-by -step for a successfully management implementation by the local authorities and Public Universities. The Law impose the imperative of providing catering services in the residential area of all public universities, at a unitary level of nutritional & hygiene quality, at a good quality/price rapport, in a standard quality environment of cafeteria or student restaurant. In addition, the author propose an additional Law regarding the lunch break in the public educational establishments between 12-13 p.m. or 12-13.30 p.m.\r\nThe University Catering Department will provide high quality catering services to its students, staff, internal clients and external clients. These services include the provision of on campus food outlets and the provision of on-site catering to events.\r\nThe catering services will have public character and the operation costs will be supported by the administrative authorities in variable proportion (25-60%), in correlation with the catering services standard (student’s cafeteria, academically staff restaurant, buffet for the auxiliary didactical staff, vending machines, convenience stores).\r\nAfter 10 years of catering management consolidation, a frame-strategy for privatization with specialized contractors in academically catering, under a 4- year of contract, were proposed.\r\nThe implication of politics from the national legislative rooms could introduce a unpredictable evolution of the strategy approval and implementation.\r\nThe present research study proposes a unitary management strategy which will determine the future development of the legal framework & implementation regulations regarding the providing of Healthy Catering Services in the Public Universities.\r\n

Author(s): Vintila Iuliana

CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS OF REFORMISTS AND FUNDAMENTALISTS PRESS TEXTS, RELATED TO USA IN NUCLEAR TALKS (CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS APPROACH, VAN LEEUWEN’S SOCIO-SEMANTIC MODEL OF SOCIAL ACTORS 2008)

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.22

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Abstract: In this article the contrastive analysis of the reformists and fundamentalists� press texts, related to USA in nuclear talks has been performed in specific periods of time, before and after beginning the last round of nuclear talks between Islamic Republic of Iran and 5+1 group, especially America�s related texts, in Iranian Persian publications as representatives of the two opposite discourses, from the perspective of the Critical Discourse Analysis approach by using socio-semantic features of Van Leeuwen�s model(2008). This study goes beyond studying and the structure description of the discourse practices and examines the ways through which meaning system and structure make possible a special type of action. To do so, a selection of discursive texts of the two Iranian Persian publications belonging to two competitor groups: E�temad as the representative of reformists and Keyhan, the fundamentalists� representative, have been analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The result shows that the opposite ideologies dominating the minds of the writers of the two political groups are reflected in the texts and statistical analysis of the corpus also states that Socio-Semantic features are determined by different ideologies, related to power relations. In other words, Language and discourse at underlying levels are laden with ideology, power relations and dominance, and at surface levels, with discursive features and structures.

Author(s): Dr. Ferdows Aghagolzadeh, shirin gohari


INVESTIGATING THE EFFECT OF TOPOLOGY ON QUANTITATIVE OPTIMIZATION OF THE PARAMETERS OF IEEE 802.15.4 (ZIGBEE) STANDARD PROTOCOL TO INCREASE THE THROUGHPUT OF WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.1

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Abstract: Today, wireless sensor networks are of great importance and efficiency. These networks have become a useful tool for extracting data from the environment and monitoring environmental events. They are also increasingly used in household, industrial and military areas. Given the importance and usage of wireless sensor networks, the need to develop and standardize wireless short-range technology with low power consumption is essential. Today, there exist several technologies for this issue. One of these technologies is IEEE 802.15.4 protocol that defines the features of physical layers and MAC in the wireless networks. Given the importance of optimizing this protocol, the interaction of SO and BO parameters on different throughput parameters and the effect of topology on these parameters in this study is investigated using simulation and quantitative and analytical methods and the optimal values of the combination of BO and SO were identified. The optimum values increase the "throughput" reduce "end-to-end delay" and reduce "packet loss ratio" and as a result lead to increase in throughput of the networks with star and tree topology. At the end, the above points were compared in networks based on star and tree topology so as to determine the effect of topology on this process.

Author(s): Majid Jafarian, Masoud Sabaei


Gender Differences among High School Students in Formal Operations Combinatorial Reasoning in Kenya

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.20

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Abstract: The focus of this investigation was gender differences in formal operations combinatorial reasoning among secondary school students in Nairobi, Kenya. The sample comprised 146 boys and girls selected from two secondary schools in the City of Nairobi, Kenya, who were administered a questionnaire on combinatorial reasoning. The result showed that there was no statistically significant gender difference in their performance of formal operational combinatorial reasoning. This paves the way for further research, to determine whether indeed, there is gender difference in formal operations combinatorial reasoning as previously and variously reported.

Author(s): Tuntufye Selemani Mwamwenda

GENDER DIFFERENCES IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS FORMAL OPERATIONS REASONING IN NAIROBI, KENYA

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.15

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Abstract: According to Piaget, formal operations means one’s ability to perform mental operations with abstract, intangible concepts such as justice or poverty or mankind and be in a position to provide a satisfactory explanation. The focus of this investigation was to assess gender differences in formal operations reasoning ability among secondary school students in Nairobi, Kenya. The sample comprised 165 boys and girls selected from two secondary schools in the City of Nairobi, Kenya, who were administered a questionnaire on formal operations reasoning. The results showed that in propositional reasoning, there was statistically significant gender difference with boys outperforming girls. In proportional reasoning, no statistically significant gender difference was observed. The results confirmed what other researchers have reported regarding gender differences in formal operations reasoning among secondary school students in various parts of the world.

Author(s): Tuntufye Selemani Mwamwenda

STUDENT TRAINING FOR PROMOTING COLLABORATIVE AGENCY: THE MONITORING ACTIVITIES

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.13

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Abstract: This study aims at understanding how student training contributes to the success and sustainability of a school intervention project and how collaborative agency emerges from that process among students and teachers. All activities developed in the intervention were based on Cultural Historical Activity Theory and on the Critical-Collaborative Research. The data from meetings, classes and questionnaires with the students were analyzed considering discursive aspects of the turns in order to understand how the students collaborate for the research design and to the sustainability of the intervention. Our results suggest that by participating in all phases of the intervention (designing, implementing and evaluating), the students tend to collaborate more with each other and with the teachers, and also have the possibility to go beyond what was established by the initial intervention objectives.

Author(s): Fernando Rezende da Cunha Junior

COMPLEXITY ANALYSIS OF EEG MOTOR MOVEMENT WITH EYE OPEN AND CLOSE SUBJECTS USING MULTISCALE SAMPLE ENTROPY (MSE) TECHNIQUE

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.26

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Abstract: Electroencephalography (EEG) is widely used technique to investigate the neuropathology of patients using noninvasive physiological monitoring as well as in research and clinical investigation. EEG is noninvasive testing method containing diverse information regarding different physiological and pathological states of human brain and thus considered as effective tool to understand the complex behavior of brain. EEG motor movement/ imagery commonly used as cognitive nature of methodology that involve the mental simulation of motor related tasks such as eye open and close, left and right fist and finger movement and other motor executive brain regions. Multiscale entropy analysis (MSE) recently developed technique is used to quantify the dynamics of physiological signals at different time scales and discriminate the EEG motor movement task of eye open and close signals recorded using 10-20 EEG system. EEG recordings of Motor Movement/ Imagery tasks were taken from the publically available Physionet database acquired using 64 electrodes. The MSE analysis was performed on the EEG data acquired from all the electrodes of Eye Open and Close tasks. Mann-Whitney rank test was used to find significant differences between the groups and result were considered statistically significant for p-values<0.05. To find the degree of separation among the groups, the area under receiver operator curve was computed. Mean ranks for MSE are computed for all electrodes and higher complexity was obtained for higher ranks and vice versa. The finding indicated that EEG signals acquired through electrodes F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, Fp1, Fp2, FC1, FC2, O1, O2, P3, P4, C3 and C4 showed significant differences between Eye open and Eye close tasks at time scales 1 to 10. Moreover, the highest accuracy and separation was obtained at front regions, central region and front polar regions.

Author(s): Lal Hussain, Sadia Anjum, Wajid Aziz, Mohsin Manshad Abbasi


IN SIGHT OF PROPHETIC EDUCATION: �A NEW TOUCH� FOR MODERN SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.25

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Abstract: Transformations that occur in the community result in a shift of humanist values. However, humans only use tools to achieve a certain goal, without concern about the nature of the essence of humanism�s truth values, leading to a renewal of thought in education. In contrast, social dimensions always experience dynamic development, including the progression of science and technology, which are dominant factors established in human education. With the re-formulation of Islamic education based on prophetic values, such education may be able to face global socio-cultural transformation. Prophetic education may also play a role as a development medium of mental processes that will strengthen the human ability to transfer knowledge to present situations through creative approaches. If the concept of prophetism is to be appreciated further, it requires an epistemic community that is able to pave the way for the development of education among Muslims. A road map should be able to provide guidance on two things: science education within an old paradigm, complete with explanations of crises and anomalies, and the research agenda framed by new paradigms such as Social Science. This means that prophetic education is highly important for consideration as a contemporary alternative solution.

Author(s): Dr. Abur Hamdi Usman, Norsaleha Mohd Salleh, Syarul Azman Shaharuddin, Salman Zainal Abidin


ANTI PROLIFERATIVE ACTIVITY FOR NEWLY HETEROFUNCTIONALIZED PYRIDINE ANALOGUES

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.7

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Abstract: The novel fused pyridine derivatives 2�8 were synthesized via the reaction of Pyridine-3,5-dicarbonitriles 1a,b with different reagents. Also, pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-amine 10 and pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine-2-thiol 11 obtain from nicotinonitrile 9 when reacted with formamide and /or phenyl isothiocyanate. Finally; 4,6-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-3-(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)pyridin-2-amine 12 which synthesized via the reaction with ethane-1,2-diamine used as precursor for preparation of imidazo[1,2-c]pyrido[3,2-e][1,2,3]triazine 13 and imidazo[1,2-c]pyrido[3,2-e][1,2,3]triazine 14�15 All the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their Anti Proliferative Activity.

Author(s): Ahmed Ali El-Sayed, NAHID Y. KHAIRELDIN , MAHMOUD EL-SHAHAT , EMAN A. ELHEFNY , MANAL M. T. EL-SAIDI , MAMDOUH MOAWAD ALI AND ABEER ESSAM EL-DIN MAHMOUD


THE INVESTIGATION OF PRIVATIZATION IN THE PRIVATE SPORT CLUBS OF TEHRAN

Volume 72, Jul 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.7.8

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Abstract: The subject of this study was to examine the private sport clubs in Tehran. It examined the occupational features, relationship between average received tuition and number of the employees and clients and finally relationship between initial investment, club net income and the number of the employees. All the sport clubs of private sector (n=36) were examined (all numbering method). The researcher-made questionnaires were used to collect the information. Data was analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that, in total, 83 different occupations have been created in several sports. Furthermore, amount of tuition did not relate to the number of clients (r=0.353, p=0.052) and the number of the employees (r=0.543, p=0.156). The number of the employees significantly related to clients (r=0.543, p=0.002). The number of the employees positively related to initial club investment but not significantly (r=0.081, p=0.666). Finally, the number of the employees scarcely negatively related to club net income (r=-0.027, p=0.884).

Author(s): Bahram Yousefi, Salah Naghshbandi