Archive of Journal
Volume 73, Issue 7, Jul. 2017

ANALYSIS OF AGHA MOHAMMAD KHAN QAJAR'S EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE REIGN (1789 TO 1797)

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.58

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Abstract: The Land of Iran and its historical boundaries was founded with ancient Persian kings� efforts and transferred to the Islamic period as a heritage. Among governments of the Islamic period, the Safavid dynasty could take the ancient land of Iran under its reign with great efforts. The collapse of the Safavid kingdom and its consequent civil wars caused the breakdown of the realm of the land of Iran among the claimants of the monarchy. Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar claimed the revival of Iran\'s historic borders as the aim of his kingdom and reigned as the King of Iran. Using an analytical-historical method, the present study aims at investigating Agha Mohammad Khan�s efforts for achieving the reign. Findings of the study indicate that Agha Mohammad Khan had a good understanding of Iran and its borders. Therefore, his efforts were focused on the capture of these areas and the formation of a single government led by himself in the territory of Iran.

Author(s): Jafar Aghazadeh

INTERNATIONAL POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS’ CHALLENGES AT SOUTH AFRICAN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.52

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Abstract: International postgraduate students’ challenges at South African Higher Education Institutions Mike Megrove Reddy (D.Litt.) (University of Zululand, South Africa, +2779 422 7650, ReddyMM@unizulu.ac.za) Abstract The author was concerned on the challenges which have been encountered by international postgraduate masters and doctorate students who studied in South Africa and how those challenges negatively affected their academic, personal, social life, and supervision process negatively. The purpose of this paper was to identify the difficulties encountered by international postgraduate masters and doctorate students at South African Higher Education Institutions. The aim was to establish possible solutions to the challenges that international postgraduate masters and doctorate students experience while studying at local universities within South Africa. This was purely a desktop study on international postgraduate masters and doctorate students. The objective was to establish the effects these challenges had on international postgraduate students. Maslow’s Theory of Hierarchy of Needs will be used as the theoretical framework for this study. Maslow’s theory of Hierarchy of Needs has five level which were as follows: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem and self-actualisation. Maslow highlights that in order for higher levels to be achieved, lower level needs to be met first. Local universities and academic institutions need to look for innovative methods which would prove to eliminate many of the challenges which were encountered by our international postgraduate masters and doctorates students. Key words: International, postgraduate students’, challenges, South African, Higher Education institutions

Author(s): Mike Megrove Reddy

An Efficient Method for Testing Distributed Embedded Systems using In-circuit Emulators

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.59

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Abstract: Many distributed embedded systems are being used for implementing different kinds of applications. The trend in embedded systems design in recent years has been towards highly distributed architectures with support for concurrency, data and control flow and scalable distributed computations. Many methods have been proposed in the past for Testing a standalone embedded system and not many methods have been proposed for testing distributed embedded systems Methods such as scaffolding, assert macros, in-circuit emulators, monitors, logic analyzers are used in addition to third party tools for undertaking the testing of standalone systems. However using of the same for testing a distributed embedded system is complicated. In the case of distributed embedded systems, a test case must be tested considering the related processes which are distributed across several embedded systems that are connected within the same network. Some testing has also to be carried for proper messaging /communication taking place between the embedded systems that get connected to the network. Messaging as such is dependent on the type of networking such as I2C, CAN and RS485 is used for establishing the distributed embedded system It is not possible to undertake testing when any part of the network fails during testing. In this paper a method has been proposed for testing distributed embedded system that gets connected through RS485 based communication system through use of in-circuit-emulators that are capable of isolating the processes related to the test cases that must be tested to ensure that the distributed embedded system has been functioning as per the design.

Author(s): DR SASTRY JKR, K Chaitanya, K Raja Sekhara Rao, DBK Kamesh

HYPERTENSION AND GENETIC POLYMORPHISM OF ACE AND ADD1 GENE IN NORTH INDIAN POPULATION

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.32

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Abstract: Primary hypertension or essential hypertension is associated with high blood pressure. However, there is no known secondary prognosis with essential hypertension. Previous studies have shown that high blood pressure is linked to genetic factors and to a sedentary lifestyle. Recently, the interaction between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and adducing (ADE1) with blood pressure has been suggested. However, its significance and predisposition with biochemical factors were elusive. In this study, we have reported there is a strong association between genetic polymorphism of insertion/deletion (I/D) of ACE and G460T polymorphism of ADD1 gene and hypertension when both the parameters were taken into consideration. The study was conducted on genetically unrelated individuals from Punjab province of North India. We found that Odd ratio (OD) of ACE gene was 1.125 and of ADD1 was 0.409 respectively. However, we did not find any foreseen risk associated with single nucleotide polymorphism of studied genes and hypertension. We surmise that combination of genetic factors along with lifestyle play important role in determining arterial hypertension.

Author(s): M. Amin-ul Mannan, Shikha Dhial, Sahiba Lall, Jasdeep Singh, Atul Kumar Upadhyay

ASYMMETRIC EFFECT OF OIL PRICE UNCERTAINTY ON ECONOMIC GROWTH BY GMM

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.31

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Abstract: Abstract The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of oil price fluctuations and the asymmetric effects of oil price fluctuations (asymmetric effects of oil shocks on the difference between the effects of its positive and negative impacts) on economic growth in the seven selected countries exporter of oil (OPEC) based on the maximum information available during the 1961-2015 period Use of generalized torque model (GMM panel data). In this research, the oil price asymmetry is firstly estimated using a non-uniformity model of the conditional exponential variance. EGARCH model shows that the model is asymmetric and the effect of positive shocks than negative shocks. The effect of shocks is positive and negative on positive economic growth, but the effect of positive shocks on negative shocks has a greater impact on economic growth in these countries. there is a negative relationship with economic growth and oil price uncertainty. Based on the Pedroni co-integration test, there is a significant relationship between the variables of the model that is due to the nature of each country. Based on oil price uncertainty coefficient, the GMM model to increase economic growth in selected countries of OPEC to reduce oil price volatility and reduce oil price volatility increases economic growth.the results of panel EGLS using as short-term results, in the long run the show that between oil prices uncertainty and economic growth there is a negative relationship. the economic growth with a lag period, the highest share in its economic growth.

Author(s): Naser seifollahi

LEGAL ASPECTS OF PERFECT DEATH PENALTY IN THE CRIMINAL LEGISLATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.33

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Abstract: Despite the world trends in human rights protection, the fight of the international community for these rights, a number of adopted international instruments for basic human rights protection and restoration, there is still such inhumane phenomenon as a death penalty. It is common in certain states such as the People's Republic of China (PRC), the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the Islamic Republic of Iran etc. Death penalty is still provided by law in the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan. However, it is not used in practice. This article provides international experience analysis in death penalty and in the fight against this phenomenon, as well as an analysis of the Criminal Legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan with regard to death penalty as a criminal sanction. International instrument analysis for fight against death penalty and its effects has revealed certain aspects of combating this phenomenon. We have determined its application consequences and developed certain guidelines based on experience analysis of states that are still practicing death penalty. We have conducted a doctrinal expediency analysis of death penalty consolidation in modern countries. We have paid attention to international factor that has a significant impact on death penalty elimination as an acceptable form of punishment, as well as on state policy formation of the Republic of Kazakhstan on death penalty limitation and moratorium. We have compared the Criminal Legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Criminal Legislation of the post-Soviet states on infliction of death penalty and execution. We have focused on controversial sanction aspects of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, providing punishment in the form of death penalty. We have provided a redlined version of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in order to eliminate gaps related to death penalty in the criminal law governing high crimes.

Author(s): Dzhansarayeva Rima Yerenatovna, Malikova Sholpan Baltabekovna, Atakhanova Gulzagira Makhatovna, Omarova Aiman Bekmuratovna, Umirbayeva Zauresh Abilgozhanovna, Turgumbayev Marlen Yerlanovich

CALIBRATION TECHNIQUE OF CURRENT SHUNT BASED ON THE METHOD OF INVERSE TRANSFORMATION

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.34

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Abstract: A technique for calibrating resistive transducers using the method of inverse transformation is proposed in the paper. The proposed calibration technique is valid in case the multiplicative component of error in measuring channel dominates. An additive component of error in measuring channel can be compensated by the operation of the zero on the voltmeter and ammeter before starting the measurement. The proposed technique makes possible to measure low resistances of the order of ?Ohm. This method allows calibrating shunts with both DC and at AC.

Author(s): Olga Galtseva, Nataliya Natalinova, Jianmin Li

PREPARATION OF PHENOLIC RESINS FROM ORANGE SEEDS OIL

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.35

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Abstract: Abstract: Phenolated orange seed oil was used in preparing thermosetting and thermoplastic resins. It was also substituted with sulphur to prepare sulphonated-phenolated feedstock that was also used to prepare another thermoset. The products obtained were characterized using Perkin Elmer infra-red spectrometer (FT-IR) and a Bruker av400 MHz NMR for proton Nuclear Magnetic resonance only (1NMR). FT-IR results show several peaks in the aromatic region between 882.00cm-1 and 592.00cm-1 and a carbonyl group of an ester at 1733.00cm-1 for the phenolated vegetable oil. The thermoset obtained from the phenolated vegetable oil shows absorption at 442.56cm-1 due to C-H bend of benzene. The Sulphonated- thermoset has an aromatic peak at 402.35cm-1 and a phenolic O-H at 3429.00cm-1. The thermoplastic shows majorly C-H stretch of an aldehyde at 2920.00cm-1 and the carbonyl group of an aldehyde at 1730.00cm-1. The proton nuclear magnetic resonance shows free benzene protons for all the products in the range 6.00-8.00ppm. These results show that all the products contain phenolic group and hence can compete as phenolic resins. The products are environmental friendly adhesives that contributes to the reduction of panel formaldehyde and phenolic hazards. They are low cost but highly effective resins for end users. Keywords: Resins, Phenolated orange oil, sulphonated orange seed oil, formaldehyde, thermosets.

Author(s): Omotoso, Mopelola Abeke, Akinsanoye, Olakunle Alex

A REVIEW OF FEAR OF DEATH

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.50

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Abstract: Death is as real as life. We know as human beings that life conditions, social consciousness, mental consciousness and besides this medical science have achieved incredible but not a survival from death. All living beings are born, grow up, develop, and die. Many different definitions of death have been made in various societies, disciplines, cultures, depending on the individuals� personality, age, race, religion and social position. Death is a real and integral part of life. Everyone thought of death in their mind and developed various attitudes about death. Death is the absolute truth for people. Death anxiety is a subjective feeling that develops after birth, lasts life-long, usually the base on all fears, that people will no longer exist, and that they will lose themselves and the world. In this article, the only unchanged concept, death and the fear of death, has been explored to explain and tell from different perspectives. Keywords: Death, Fear of Death and Being.

Author(s): Gizem ONERI UZUN

USING GROUP WORK AS A LEARNING STRATEGY FOR TECHNIQUES OF INTEGRATION BY ENGINEERING STUDENTS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.36

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Abstract: This qualitative study explored a didactical approach based on collaborative learning in a second-year Mathematics module. The rationale for carrying out this exploration was to empower students to become active, responsible and critical learners. The study was carried out with 72 second-year Mechanical Engineering students at a South African university of technology, who were divided into eighteen groups of four members and engaged in mathematics tasks structured in the form of activity sheets guided by social constructivism. Written responses, classroom activity observations and questionnaires contributed to the data. The activities involved four tasks on techniques of integration, namely, direct integration, integration using substitution, integration by parts and integration using partial fractions. Findings emanating from the data analysis indicated that this approach to collaborative learning provided positive attributes which aided effective Mathematics learning and learning in general

Author(s): A. Maharaj

ISCHEMIA MODIFIED ALBUMIN AND C-REACTIVE PROTEIN LEVELS IN GENERALIZED AGGRESSIVE PERIODONTITIS PATIENTS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.37

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Abstract: ABSTRACT Background:The aim of this study is to compare serum levels of IMA and CRP in patients with GAgP and healthy control individuals. Materials and Methods: 16 generalized aggressive periodontitis patients (GAgP; 8 female/ 8male) and 13 control (C; 7 female/6 male) individuals were including in this study.Probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at six regions around every tooth. IMA levels in serum samples were evaluated by the albumin cobalt binding (ACB) test and hsCRP levels in serum samples were determined using immunoturbidimetric assays. Results:PPD, CAL and BOP values were significantly higher in the GAgP group compared to the control group (p<0.001). IMA and hsCRP levels were significantly higher in GAgP group compared to the control group(respectively, p=0.003 and p=0.046).Statistically significant positive correlations were observed between PPD, CAL, BOP values and serum hsCRP levels. A positive correlation was also observed between PPD, CAL values and serum IMA levels. Conclusions:This study showed the increased levels of serum IMA and hsCRP in the patients diagnosed with GAgP. Increased levels of IMA in patients with GAgP are due to the oxidative stress and it may suggest that serum IMA levels are valuable indicator for GAgP. Key Words: Generalized Aggressive PeriodontitisIschemia Modified Albumin and C-reactive protein

Author(s): Fatma Karacaoglu, Mahmure Ayse Tayman

ON BUILDING COGNITIVE EXPERT SYSTEM FOR MANAGING ROAD TRAFFIC WITHIN SMART CITIES

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.38

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Abstract: One of the major goals of developing countries is to build smart cities to avoid different kinds of congestions, accidents and many kinds of inordinate delays. The most important consideration is intelligent Traffic Management System. An intelligent traffic management system can be conceived through many of individual sub-systems which include Bio-sensing system, imaging system, messaging system, cognitive system, and visualization system, remote sensing, and communication system. Each of the sub-system while is expected to work independently, it should also be in existence in unison along with other sub-systems. To implement automated traffic control system, there is a need of cognitive subset which is the decisive-core of the integrated system. It essentially works like a virtual human operator. An embedded remote-control takes in various traffic conditions such as undetected accidents, VIP movement, and abnormal environmental conditions as inputs from the police force to the cognitive control system to control the traffic flows at signal post systems. Designing a cognitive subsystem with high precision, to take real-time decisions with varying multiple inputs is a complex task. It should take inputs from all the other subsystems and the man-operator, process the gathered data and then issue control signals accordingly. This paper emphasises on the design and application of the cognitive expert system in a simple yet efficient manner to suite the smart city environment.

Author(s): J. K. R. Sastry, J. Sasi Bhanu

DILEMMA DISCUSSION BASED ON THE ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING MODEL IN NURSING ETHICS EDUCATION

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.51

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Abstract: In Korea, all nursing schools must receive accreditation for their nursing education program. The standards of nursing education program outcomes include that nursing students should comprehend nursing ethics standards and integrate ethical knowledge and clinical nursing practice. This article introduces the process of a dilemma discussion based on an ethical decision-making model and shows the implementation method in an ethics course of a baccalaureate nursing program. To present the process of a dilemma-based discussion, an ethical decision-making model was used and the implementation of the dilemma-based discussion was suggested. To achieve nursing education program outcomes, ethical training is necessary for nursing students. Ethical training based on the ethical decision-making model used in conjunction with the pedagogical technique of a dilemma discussion is most effective for nursing students. To completely develop ethical decision-making competency, ethical education for nursing students should not only include delivering knowledge-based instruction but also incorporate discussion-based ethics education, such as a dilemma discussion. A dilemma discussion based on the ethical decision-making model helps to improve ethical decision-making competence that can then be applied when nursing students encounter ethical dilemmas in the clinical field after graduation.

Author(s): JiYoung Lim, Wonjung Noh

GRAFTING VEGETABLE OILS TO DEVELOP ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.49

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Abstract: Abstract New bio-based compounds containing phenols were prepared from vegetable oils. Vegetable oils from Mango seed (mangifera indica), Orange seed (Citrus Sinensis) Jathropha curcas seed and pawpaw seed (carica papaya) were modified using phenol and ortho cresol at controlled temperature and pressure in the presence of a super acid (HClO4) as catalyst via chain growth polymerization. The physicochemical properties of the products obtained were determined, Viscometry studies was carried out to determine the molecular weight of the products, Fourier transformation infra � red spectroscopy (FTIR) and Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1NMR) were carried out to check for modifications and structural elucidation. The physicochemical parameters for the grafted samples show marked increase in iodine values: 79.55g/100g, 101.07g/100g, 101.32g/100g, 105.33g/100g and 108.26g/100g for Phenolated mango oil, Phenolated Orange oil, Phenolated Jathropha curcas oil, cresolated Jathropha curcas oil and phenolated pawpaw oil respectively compared to the ungrafted samples: 45g/100g, 62.51g/100g, 97.89g/100g and 62.98g/100g for Mango seed oil, Orange seed oil, Jathropha curcas seed oil and pawpaw oil. The Viscometry analysis showed the various molecular weights of the polymerized products to be 366g/mol, 674g/mol, 406g/mol, 330g/mol and 412g/mol for phenolated mango seed oil, phenolated orange seed oil, phenolated jathropha seed oil, cresolated Jathropha seed oil and phenolated mango seed oils compared to the molecular weight obtained of the various samples which are: 272g/mol, 392g/mol, 252g/mol and 258g/mol for mango seed oil, orange seed oil, Jatropha seed oil and pawpaw seed oil. These values show an increase in molecular weight signifying that polymerization had taken place. The FTIR shows several absorptions in the aromatic region for the products than found in the samples. The proton NMR showed lots of peaks in the region where benzene is commonly absorbed for all the products (7.00ppm-8.00ppm) but none of these peaks show in the original samples. Peaks in the region of 4.5ppm to 5.5ppm were common to all the samples. The Viscometry proton NMR, and the FTIR results were all complementary. The results in general showed that the level of unsaturation and functionality of the various products had increased. These products are new aromatic-aliphatic bio-based raw materials suitable as feedstock for the petrochemical industries. They are biodegradable because of the presence of carbonyl groups in their structures that can undergo photolytic degradation. They meet up with the requirement of the green chemistry policies and make our planet safer to inhabit while enjoying technology. Keywords: Alternative industrial chemicals, Vegetable oils, Grafting, Green chemistry.

Author(s): Omotoso, Mopelola Abeke, Akinsanoye, Olakunle Alex

COMPARISON OF FASTING BLOOD SUGAR, HEMOGLOBIN A1C AND SERUM FERRITIN LEVEL ACCORDING TO OBESITY IN KOREAN ADOLESCENTS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.48

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Abstract: The purpose of this study is to compare Korean adolescents' fasting blood sugar(FBS), hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) and serum ferritin according to their body mass index(BMI). This study conducted a secondary analysis using a raw data of The Fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES V-3), 2015 which researched by Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Then this study classified adolescents(13-18y) in obese group(?25.0kg/m�) 63people (21.1%) and normal group(18.5?22.9kg/m�) 236people(78.9%), then analyzed survey and blood test of total of 299 people. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient (SPSS 24.0). The major findings of this study were as follows. Frist, male(65.1%) appeared to be more in obese group than female(34.9%). Second, obese group(5.48%) showed higher rate of HbA1c than normal group(5.40%) also obese group(52.06?U/L) showed higher rate of serum ferritin than normal group(39.43?U/L). Third, BMI has statically significant correlation between FBS, HbA1c and serum ferritin. We want to provide a basis data for the prevention of obesity intervention program for adolescents.

Author(s): Hea Shoon Lee

TESTING DISTRIBUTED EMBEDDED SYSTEMS THROUGH INSTRUCTION SET SIMULATORS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.57

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Abstract: Distributed Embedded systems are being used these days for monitoring and controlling many applications which are either critical or non-critical. No formal frameworks as such have been presented which can be used for testing distributed embedded systems. Many methods have been proposed in the past for testing stand-alone embedded systems. The methods used for testing stand-alone systems include Scaffolding, Assert macros; Instruction set simulator, in-circuit emulators etc. The main objective of this paper is to find and present the way testing of distributed embedded systems can be carried through use of instruction set method.\r\nSeveral methods have been presented that are related to test case generation, parsing and undertaking testing through instruction set simulation at different locations within the distributed embedded system and also showing the testing results considering the working of all the locations within the distributed embedded system together.\r\nIt has been shown in this paper, that testing of a distributed embedded system can be undertaken through instruction set simulators considering both hardware and software that runs as individual embedded systems. It has also be shown that the overall test cases can be broken into test cases that can be used to test at individual computing locations and the test results at those locations can be combined for finding the overall test results considering the entire distributed embedded system as a whole.The testing process has been applied to test an existing distributed embedded system that monitors and controls the temperatures within a nuclear reactor system

Author(s): JKR Sastry, K Chaitanya, K. Rajasekhara Rao, DBK Kamesh

MATHEMATICAL ASPECTS OF COMPETING SPECIES

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.45

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Abstract: We analyse the Gause-Lotka-Volterra model for competition between four species with the approach of singularity analysis to identify parameters for which the system is integrable. We observe some relations between critical values arising from the approach of dynamical systems and singularity analysis. We extend our analysis to the problem for n-species

Author(s): A. Maharaj

The Preparatory School Students’ Use of Social Learning Environments and Its Effect on Their Success and Comprehension of What They Read

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.55

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Abstract: Abstract The purpose of this study is to define the Preparatory Students� use of Social Learning environments and its effect on their success and comprehension of what they read. The current study is a descriptive survey model. The participants of the study were 208 elementary students from the Preparatory School of Near East University in the academic year of 2016 � 2017 fall semester. Data collection tools were online Edmodo usage questionnaires and reading comprehension tests that were developed by the researchers. Data gathered shows that more than three quarters of the participating students can find extra information in Edmodo. Nearly three quarters think that Edmodo enhances communication and interactivity. Nearly half of the students think that Edmodo increases student enjoyment of learning and confidence in their ability. On the other hand, more than half of the participants think that Edmodo promotes better complex conceptual understanding. More than ninety percent follow Edmodo on the internet for their English lesson. Most of them follow it three times a week. As a result of the t-test conducted, it has been discovered that the students who are successful in reading comprehension test results were eager to use Edmodo. These students find Edmodo as an effective tool for supporting their learning. The findings indicate that the students who use Edmodo have the chance to improve their reading skills and increase their success. Keywords: Foreign Language, Preparatory School, Edmodo, Success

Author(s): Murat Tezer, Fatma KOPRULU

AN INVESTIGATION OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND INTERNET USE OF PREPARATORY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN TERMS OF VARIOUS VARIABLES

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.43

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Abstract: In this study, the social media usage of students who study at the Preparatory School was analyzed in terms of different variables.The survey method, which is one of the types of descriptive research, was used in this study. The study group, on the other hand, comprised 220 beginner and intermediate-level students studying at the Preparatory School of a private university in the academic year of 2016-2017 in North Cyprus. A two-part survey devised by the researchers was used to collect the necessary research data. Consequent to the study, it was ascertained that all the students who took part in the study had social media accounts, easily accessible internet connections and e-mail addresses. It was also found out that half of the participating students had a good level, thirty percent of them had a very good level and the remaining twenty percent had a fair level of social media knowledge. However, it was also discovered that many of the students did not have a personal website. It was found out that they connected to social media sites mainly through smartphones and it was observed that they mostly accessed the internet and social media when they were at home. Also, it was discovered that the students had social media accounts irrespective of their English language levels. It was also indicated that the most widely used social media application was �Facebook�. Keywords: Social Media, Internet, Social Media Platforms, Web Technologies

Author(s): Murat Tezer, Yesim USTUN AKSOY

THE GENERALIZED DUPUIT'S FORMULA OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL FILTRATION IN A HETEROGENEOUS ANISOTROPIC MEDIUM

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.44

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Abstract: The paper proposes a generalized Dupuit�s formula for heterogeneous anisotropic medium. The obtained formula validity is proved via deriving the original Dupuit�s formula from the generalized one. The solution novelty is in using generalized complex numbers and an ellipse to present a drainage area. Playing with the ellipse axes allow to change the drainage area shape from channel shape up to a circle. Thus allowing to consider different flow regimes.

Author(s): Bimuratkyzy Kuralay, Jatykov Temirlan, Sagindykov Bimurat, Bimurat Zhanar

PARTY POLITICS AND INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: THE DILEMMA OF POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.46

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Abstract: Politics and its praxis in Nigeria has had a chequered history and despite its seeming openness to the general public it is still a puzzle and arcane to the outsider. This study thus examined Party Politics and Internal Democracy: The Dilemma of Political Development in Nigeria. The paper made use of secondary source of data as the main source of data used in this paper. This method is adopted due to its intrinsic values. The secondary sources adopted in this study includes materials like newspapers, magazines, textbooks, internet, journals, government publications, official documents etc. which helped us to gain an insight into party politics and internal democracy in the country and elsewhere. Content analysis as a method of investigation is adopted in this study. This involves reading meaning into materials that are collected for the purpose of achieving reliable and verifiable conclusion. The paper affirmed that political parties in Nigeria today are bereft of the much needed internal democracy especially with recourse to candidate selection. The overbearing and domineering attitude of political incumbents and the so called godfathers was as well identified. It was recommended among other things that all political parties should have a clearly defined philosophy and ideologies that will enable them conform to the dictates of their manifestoes. That political party should be funded by contributions from party members. That government should look into the urgent need to reform political parties in Nigeria with a view to sanitizing the democratic process to ensure the survival and growth of hard-earned democracy and political development.

Author(s): Udeuhele, Ikechukwu Godwin

EVALUATION OF EDMODO LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USERS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.41

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Abstract: Abstract Aim of this study is to evaluate �Edmodo� learning management system users in higher education. In order to achieve this aim, scientific studies published between 2011 and 2016 obtained from Google Scholar, National Thesis Archieve in Higher Education Council (YOK) and ULAKBIM (National Academic Network and Information Center) of TUBITAK databases were evaluated based on content analysis. This study is based on survey model. Results showed that use of Edmodo increase day by day since it has useful educational properties, it is free and it provides many language support. In addition, it was revealed that Edmodo creates a safe environment for teachers and students in terms of collaboration, feedback and individualized learning. Keywords:Edmodo, Educational Social Network Websites, Virtual Education Environments.

Author(s): Ozge Beyatli

TEACHERS’ VIEWS ON MATHEMATICS UP TO GRADE 7 AND ITS TEACHING: A CASE STUDY

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.40

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Abstract: This paper reports on the views of mathematics teachers on mathematics and its teaching up to grade 7. The 108 teachers who participated in the study came from schools within a state in India that followed the Central Board of Secondary Education International (CBSE-i) mathematics curriculum. At the beginning of the intervention programme the teachers were given six questions to reflect within the context of a group discussion. This study reports on the summary of the written group responses to the questions and the discussion that followed during the report back session. It was found that although the majority of the teachers were able to list the mathematics� topics to be studied as indicated in the syllabus very few consciously indicated that mathematics is studied to develop creativity. At least 80% of the teachers included in their responses learner-centred methods to the question on how mathematics is studied. Further about 94% of the 18 groups were able to satisfactorily explain what was meant by the concepts mathematical experiments and mathematics� laboratory.

Author(s): Aneshkumar Maharaj, Vivek Wagh

EXPLORING IN-SERVICE TEACHERS’ DEFINITION MAKING OF CERTAIN CLASSES OF GEOMETRICAL SHAPES WITHIN A VAN HIELE FRAMEWORK

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.54

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Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to report on classroom-tested geometry activities based on the van Hiele geometric thinking levels in a study which investigated fourth-year students� understanding in definition making of polygons, polyhedra, prisms, pyramids and cylinders. Research was carried out at a South African university. These concepts were taught to preservice teachers (n=85) wishing to specialise in the teaching of mathematics in the GET school curriculum (primary school). Activity sheets based on an examples and non-examples approach was designed to foster collaborative learning. A collaborative approach to learning involved a group of students who participated in the project. This paper, specifically, reports on the investigation of preservice teachers� written and verbal responses based on a learning theory within the context of the van Hiele levels and makes a contribution to an understanding of how these students constructed these concepts in a collaborative way.

Author(s): Deonarain Brijlall

VOLTAGE STABILITY IMPROVEMENT BY UNIFIED POWER FLOW CONTROLLER UNDER LOADED CONDITIONS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.47

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Abstract: In the operation and control of any power system, the quantities such as voltage stability, power factor, harmonics, reactive power and current etc., should be monitored continuously for the better performance of the system. The system will lose its stability when load (active / reactive or both) is unduly increased, which finally leads to voltage instability, if proper control action is not taken. Due to the importance of the voltage stability, this problem is considered in this paper and solved by including one of the Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) controllers, i.e., Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC), in the power system under consideration. The Static Voltage Stability Index (SVSI) is used to estimate the degree of voltage stability in a particular line. The IEEE-30 bus power system is taken as the test case and power flow analysis is carried out with the Newton Raphson (NR) method to identify the line with poor SVSI. Since the reactive power limit is one of the major causes for the voltage instability, it is injected into the line which is having the poor SVSI, through the UPFC by varying its parameters r, ? & xse, there by the voltage stability (the SVSI) of the system is improved and brought to normal under varying load conditions. The power injection model of UPFC is considered for this purpose.

Author(s): A. N. Venkateswarlu, S.S.Tulasi Ram, P.Sangameswara Raju

ENVIRONMENTAL IDENTITY OF CANDIDATE TEACHERS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.42

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Abstract: This study evaluated candidate teachers� and the role of gender on environmental identity. 153 volunteers, picked through a random method, participated in this study in which an environmental identity scale was execised. The findings indicated that the candidate teachers were highly aware of environmental identity. The participants particularly defined themselves as a part of ecosystem and the nature. They expressed their being less sensitive towards green areas, their responsibilities for the nature, and exhibiting pro-environmental behaviors. It was also noted in this study that the male cared more for positive environmental behaviors and being a part of the nature than the female.

Author(s): Donay Kara, Serap Ozbas

AN ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW OF BULBINE FRUTESCENS (L.) WILLD. (ASPHODELACEAE) – A MEDICINAL PLANT USED FOR THE TREATMENT OF SKIN DISEASES IN THE EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.39

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Abstract: Background: Bulbine frutescens (Asphodelaceae) is commonly used in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa for the treatment of burns, dysentry, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), urinary tract infections, cracked lips, herpes, ringworm, rashes and itches. However, the toxicology, traditional usage and claimed efficacy of this important medicinal plant have not been adequately documented. Thus, the need to furnish a comprehensive review on the phytochemistry, botany, traditional usage, pharmacology and toxicology of B. frutescens and to identify potential loopholes for future research. Material and methods: Scientific literature of B. frutescens was reviewed, with a focus on the traditional usage, claimed efficacy and toxicology of the plant in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Literature from 2000 – 2015 obtained from different scientific databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, SciFinder and Scopus was considered for review. Searches were undertaken using the key word “Bulbine frutescens” as identified in the Plant List. Results: Several phytochemical studies on the aerial parts and roots of Bulbine frutescens revealed the presence of several compounds such as Biaryl anthraquinones, knipholone, isofuranonaphthoquinones, and others with great therapeutic potentials. Conclusion: Results revealed the therapeutic potential of B. frutescens on cutaneous wounds, fungi, bacteria and other microbes. This further validated the traditional use of Bulbine frutescens in the treatment of wounds in the Eastern Cape. However, the wealth of traditional knowledge was limited to traditional healers. Thus, collaborative research with indigenous healers on pharmacological and toxicological investigations on main active compounds are necessary so as to validate some biological activities displayed by B. frutescens, determine safe concentration of remedies and develop potential drugs for the management of various diseases.

Author(s): Wilfred Otang Mbeng, Mariette Stephanie Kenfack, Simeon Albert Materechera

GENISTEIN AMELIORATES ALCOHOL-INDUCED LIVER INJURY IN RATS

Volume 73, Jul 2017
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2017.7.56

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Abstract: AIM: To investigate the effects of genistein in attenuation of alcohol-induced liver injury in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three experimental groups of seven rats per group, as follows: control group (CON), alcohol group (ALC), and genistein group (GEN). CON group rats were fed distilled water (16 mL/kg BW per day); ALC group rats was fed 50% alcohol (8 g/kg BW per day); and, GEN group rats were fed genistein (16 mg/kg BW per day) dissolved in 50% alcohol (8 g/kg BW per day). All 3 groups were fed via gavage (feeding) tube twice a day for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, all rats were sacrificed and liver samples were collected to determine malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and interleukin-18 (IL-18) expression. Serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF- alpha) was also measured. RESULTS: Changes in body weight in the ALC and GEN groups were significantly lower than CON group (46.14+/-15.1, 69.71+/-6.84 vs. 137.28+/-17.31 g, P <0.01). However, change in body weight was significantly increased in GEN group, when compared with ALC group (69.71+/-6.84 vs. 46.14+/-15.1 g, P <0.05). Level of hepatic MDA in ALC group was significantly higher than in CON group (0.123+/-0.02 vs. 0.09+/-0.008 nmol/mg protein, P <0.05). However, the high hepatic MDA level was significantly decreased in GEN group, when compared with ALC group (0.091+/-0.025 vs. 0.123+/-0.02 nmol/mg protein, P <0.01). Level of hepatic GSH in CON group was 12.4+/-11.77 nmol/mg protein, while ALC group hepatic GSH was 11.77+/-1.21 nmol/mg protein. GEN group hepatic GSH was significantly higher than in ALC group (14.39+/-2.1 vs. 11.77+/-1.21 nmol/mg protein, P <0.05). Percentage of IL-18 immunoreactive cells in ALC group was significantly higher than CON group (57.4+/-2.54% vs. 16.87+/-5.01%, P <0.01). However, IL-18 expression in rat liver was down-regulated in GEN group, with a significant decrease of IL-18 immunoreactive cells (19.52+/-10.9 vs. 57.4+/-2.54%, P <0.01) CONCLUSION: Genistein could attenuate alcohol-induced liver injury in rat by decreasing oxidative stress, reducing inflammation, and restoring GSH.

Author(s): Duangporn Werawatganon