Archive of Journal
Volume 72, Issue 4, Apr. 2016

The Effects of Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy on Serum Levels of Procalcitonin in Patients with Chronic and Aggressive Periodontitis

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.8

Abstract: ABSTRACT Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of non-surgical periodontal treatment on serum levels of ProCT and hsCRP in patients with chronic and aggressive periodontitis. Materials and Methods: 20 patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP), 22 patients with generalized chronic periodontitis (CP) and 21 systemically and periodontally healthy subjects (Control) were included in this study. Probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), gingival recession (GR) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at baseline and after 4 weeks of nonsurgical periodontal treatment. ProCT was assessed by Chemiluminescent assay and hsCRP was assessed by immunoturbidimetric assay in serum samples before and after 4 weeks. Results: All clinical values were significantly higher in GAgP and CP groups compared to the control group and decreased significantly after treatment (p<0.001). Levels of ProCT were significantly higher in CP group compared to the control group (p<0.05). Levels of hsCRP were significantly higher in GAgP group compared to the control group (p<0.05). ProCT were significantly higher in CP group compared to the GAgP group (p<0.05). hsCRP were higher in GAgP group compared to the CP group (p=0,38). ProCT in GAgP group and hsCRP in CP group decreased significantly after non-surgical periodontal treatment (p<0.001) Conclusions: ProCT might play a considerable role during periodontal inflammation and it may be recommended that an increased serum ProCT levels in patients with periodontal disease has the potential to be a biomarker for periodontal tissue breakdown. Key Words: Chronic Periodontitis, Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis, Procalcitonin, hsCRP, Periodontal Treatment

Author(s): Canan Onder, Sivge Kurgan, Nur Balci, Ayse Tayman, Zeliha Guney, Muhittin A. Serdar, Meral Gunhan

A Novel Offline Borrowing System for Book Transformed from Printed Book to E-Book in Libraries

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.16

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Nowadays, called as Age of Information, most of the libraries uses conventional borrowing methods for printed/digital material. These traditional ways have some significant disadvantages. Some of them are losing, deformation of books and not accessing when a person wants to borrow any book. In this study, the books in the library are scanned and converted to proposed e-book format to get rid of these disadvantages. In this way, borrowing operations are made using the e-books. A protection of the borrowed book is provided against to any incompatible conditional. Thus, a substructure which users can access the library via tablet pc and mobile phone is prepared. Within scope of this study, the current e-book formats are investigated in detail and conclusion, a new e-book format with significant advantages is proposed to current formats to use in digital libraries.

Author(s): Aykut Karakaya, Kerem Erzurumlu, Erdal Kilic

Research Activity as an Integral Component of Engineering Education

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.19

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The international aerospace industry needs to hire specialists who possess a broad range of skills and are able to work independently in a diverse, multi-disciplinary team, generate innovative ideas, solve non-standard problems and make important decisions. To meet new challenges, universities promote active learning and encourage students to participate in research activities. This paper studies the organization of research activities at universities, and factors that benefit their productivity. It also presents the results of a short survey among bachelor students of the Institute of Non-Destructive Testing, Tomsk Polytechnic University, showing their interest and active participation in research work.

Author(s): M.V. Kuimova, D.D. Burleigh, Yu.Yu. Arnst, A.E. Sentsov

Economical Evaluation of Installing Wind Turbines for Ondokuz Mayis University (OMU), TURKEY

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.22

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The use of wind energy is steadily increasing in the world. An economic analysis for the investment of utilizing wind power plant is needed before installing wind turbines. In this paper, a cost-benefit analysis of the installation of wind turbines was carried out for Ondokuz Mayis University (OMU). Six different scenarios were considered in order to supply energy demand of OMU. It was found that if two turbines were taken into account associated with an average wind speed of 7 m/s, the installation of 750kW wind turbine(s) will result in a positive net present value (NPV) for 20-year life and 30- year life. The internal rate of return (IRR) was also estimated to be 10.35% and 11.75% for 20 and 30 years, respectively. Furthermore, in the case of one turbine with an average wind speed of 6.5 m/s, the IRR for 20 and 30 years were estimated to be 5.89% and 9.56%, respectively

Author(s): Birol Elevli, Erdem Koc, Kadir Kaya

Succession flora of abandoned agricultural fields: inventory and characteristics in south-east of Algeria.

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.23

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: This study focus on the identification and characterization of plant succession of abandoned agricultural perimeters in south ï¿½ east of Algeria, where we have selected 03 stations with the same period of abandonment (09 years): cereal under pivot, palm plantation and planting Greenhouse. Thirty four (34) species have been inventoried and distributed in 14 botanical families including Asteraceae and Poaceae are the most representative. We have counted 28 of these species in greenhouse, 16 species in the pivot and 14 species belong to the palm plantation. Most of these species (30 species) are spontaneous. Only 04 species found in greenhouse had been introduced. The distribution of these species has been conditioned by anthropogenic activities, level of soil tillage and kind of culture which give a banal flora, linked to the history of these natural areas and also the nature of the practiced cultivation

Author(s): BENBRAHIM Keltoum, CHELOUFI Hamid, EDDOUD Amar

Improved Caroteno-Protein and Exopolysaccharide Production by Rhodotorula glutinis for Management of Wheat Grain Diseases

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.25

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Rhodotorula glutinis producing exopolysaccharide, locally isolated was characterized and identified based on morphological and biochemical keys. Rhodotorula glutinis showed folds increase in exopolysaccharide (EPS) production on medium containing glucose or sucrose, respectively.In addition, the synthesis of exopolysaccharide in batch fermentations was improved by adding glucose. Exopolysaccharides synthesized by Rhodotorula glutinis were isolated from the supernatant and identified as D-mannose. Carotenoids produced by Rhodotorula glutinishave been identified as carotene torulene. EPS producing cells were taken to design BENT powderbased formulation. The formulation and storage of a dried biocontrol product was done and the impact of EPs on cell survival during drying and storage was also studied.Biological test showed antioxidant and antifungal trends against blight and spots causing fungal pathogens of Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Alternaria triticina, Fusarium moniliforme and Penicillium chrysogenum on wheat grain grown under biotic and abiotic stress and significantly enhanced seeds germination, plant growth and wheat grain yield.

Author(s): Hussein Abouziena, Wafaa M. Haggag

Editing of Technical Papers Translated from a Foreign Language

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.27

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The primary goal of a technical paper is to inform the reader about the work that was done and why it was meaningful. The translation and editing of a technical paper is very difficult. It requires extensive experience, good language skills, and ideally, a strong background in the subject area of the paper. The goals of editing include correcting terminology, improving grammar, and, most importantly, ensuring that the message of the author is clear in the final paper. This paper discusses challenges, strategies and examples of technical editing. The paper is based on the authorsâ€™ experience with papers in the field of NDT (Nondestructive Testing) that were written in Russian, translated into English by Russians, and then edited by a native speaker of English. However, the principles and processes discussed in this paper apply to all languages.

Author(s): Douglas D. Burleigh, Marina V. Kuimova

The Impact of Meeting Earnings Thresholds in a Multiperiod Oligopoly Setting

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.28

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Anecdotal evidence in accounting literature has shown the economic consequence of real earnings management. Meeting or beating a short-term earnings threshold can be characterized by a firm to signal private information on its strategic response to economic shock or serve as opportunistic earnings management. This may induce strategic response for competitors within an industry and have impact on a firmâ€™s long-term competitiveness. This study investigates the impact of earnings thresholds on product market competition with one-sided incomplete information in a two-period Cournot competition setting. In this setting, a firmâ€™s first-period output choices are not only strategically made but are also used to convey proprietary information to its rival, and earnings thresholds could coordinate a firmâ€™s intertemporal operating decisions. Our study provides a rationale for arranging intertemporal output levels to achieve a higher second-period earnings threshold (and thus a lower first-period earnings threshold). We identify plausible conditions under which an informed firm can take advantage of its rivalâ€™s uncertainty to lower its first-period output and then raise its second-period output, and those choices will create some reserves which are used to reach the higher second-period earnings threshold. This could actually enhance profits. Our results could provide empirical predictions for meeting a short-term earnings threshold in terms of downward real earnings management strategy (i.e., lower short-term output) and its long-term economic consequences in product market competition.

Author(s): Hao-Chang Sung, Man Luo

The Argumentative Writing Skill with Multicultural Awareness in Indonesian Language for Foreign Learners

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.30

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Goals in this research are improving the quality and the skills of learning to write The Argumentative Writing Skill with Multicultural Awareness In Indonesian Language for Foreign Learners at Sebelas Maret University. This research conducted in the form of classroom action research. The research is the result of collaboration between researchers and teachers to improve the quality of learning. There are three data sources used as the object of data collection and information in this research. Those data sources are informant, event, and document. Technique in collecting the data used as the tools to gather the data in relation with the problem being investigated are observation, interview, tests, analysis of documents. The analysis technique used to analyze the data that has been collected is a comparative descriptive analysis techniques and critical analysis techniques. Analysis of data by comparing the test scores among cycles with predefined indicators work. The result of research showed that, the application of cooperative learning model in enhancing the argumentative writing skill with multicultural awareness in Indonesian language for foreign learners able to increase the quality process of learning to write argumentation multicultural perspective. This study also can improve the writing skills of multicultural-minded argumentations, at pre-action, the cycleI , the cycle II, and the cycle III.

Author(s): Kundharu Saddhono

EFFECTS OF THE MAGNETIC FIELD CONSTITUTED BY THE INCUBATORS

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.29

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this experimental study was to ascertain the effects of the magnetic field (created by the incubators) on the rat pups by using some behavior models. \r\nMETHODOLOGY: Forty eight rats were divided into 3 groups including, group I: control (outside the incubator), group II: cared in a non-working incubator, group III: cared in a working incubator. Each group was consisted of 16 newborn rats and kept in the incubator for a period of 30 days. After 30 days of the experiment, the rats were subject to Morris water maze test, open field test and elevated plus maze test. \r\nRESULTS: In water maze test, the rats were spent much longer duration in the platform in the study group. In open field test, duration and time percent in central zone, vertical movement were decreased, and duration and time percent in peripheral zone, micturation of the rats in the study group were increased. In elevated plus maze test, grooming, defecation and micturation were found to be increased in the study group. In the study group, most of the determinants of the behavior models were found to be significantly different from the controls. \r\nCONCLUSION: Electromagnetic field (created by the incubators) had adverse effects on newborn rats by causing depression, anxiety, and interfering spatial learning function.

Author(s): Cuneyt Tayman, Salih Aydemir, Cuneyt Tayman, Alparslan Tonbul, M. Mansur Tatli

Corporate Financing Decisions and Investment Inefficiency

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.31

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: We set out in this study to examine the relationship between the financing decisions of firms and level of inefficient investment. We demonstrate that firms with (non-)valuable investment opportunities, the actual level of investment invariably tends to less (more) than the optimal level which problem of under-investment (over-investment). We carry out two types of empirical tests, analyzing the level of investment for maximum firm value (dependent upon the quality of the investment opportunities) so as to gauge the relative magnitude of the investment inefficiencies effects. Firstly, from an examination of the relative changes in the investment intensity of firms following financing decisions, we find that those firms issuing equity or dual tend to under-investment, and that this is largely dependent upon the valuable investment opportunities available to them. Secondly, we examine different financing decisions in an attempt to determine whether such decisions represent the underlying cause of such inefficient investment.

Author(s): Hsiao-Fen Hsiao

Effects of Benzoic acid and Thiourea on Growth and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Plants

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.26

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: A possible strategy for increasing the crop productivity is to use some bioregulators, therefore two field experiments were carried out in sandy soil at El-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt, during two successive winter seasons of 2013/2014 and 2014/2015. This study aimed to investigate the response of vegetative growth, yield, and some metabolic constituents of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cv. Sakha 93 to exogenously applied of two bioregulators i.e. Benzoic acid (BA; 100, 200 and 400 mg L-1) and Thiourea (TU; 250, 500, and 1000 mg L-1), either alone or in combination. Foliar application of BA and TU alone or in combination significant increased the tiller number and spikes/m2, total plant dry weight/m2, flag leaf area, blades area/plant and yield criteria (spike length, number of grains/spike, number of spike/m2, grain index, grain yield/fed, straw yield per feddan) and these effects were greater with application of BA and/or TU up to 200 and 1000 mg L-1, respectively. Spraying wheat plants by BA and TU, alone or combined significantly improved the nutritional value and quality of wheat grains by increasing oil percent, crude protein, total soluble sugars and total free amino acids contents. In conclusion, the yield-contributing characters and quality of wheat could be improved by application of BA and/or TU up to 200 and 1000 mg L-1, respectively.

Author(s): Hussein Abouziena, A.A. Amin, A.A. Abd El-Kader, M. El-Awadi, Fatma A. E. Gharib

MODELING OF PROCESSES OF WASHING THE HUMUS OUT OF ROOT ZONE OF DARK-CHESNUT SOILS

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.32

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: It is established that the amount of leached humus influences the speed and volume of infiltration water in root layer of soil. On the basis of experimental data, a mathematical model of washed off the humus from the root layer of soil was developed to estimate the intensity of soil degradation. The maximum average values of washed out humus was obtained in the option where irrigation norm was 250 m3/ha day. In this option, the average concentration of leached humus amounted 0,106 g/l. In the option, where the irrigation norm was 500 m3/ha, mineralization of washed humus has decreased on average by 0.008 g/l or 7.5% compared with the first option. At irrigation norm of 1000 m3/ha, the intensity humus leaching, compared with the 1st option was smaller to 0,014 g/l or 13.2 %. In the option, where the irrigation norm was 2000 m3/ha, the values of humus leaching reached 0,023 g/l, which is 21.7 % less than option 1. The decrease in the intensity of humus leaching in this option, compared with options 2 and 3, re-spectively, amounted to 0.015 and 0.009 g/l, or 15.3 and 9.8%.

Author(s): Bekbayev Rakhym, E.D. Zhaparkulova, Z.Mussin, O. Karlykhanov, N. Bekbayev, K. Kurmachev, G. Toktaganova

Syllable to Word: Relative Collocational Syllable Entropy vs.Transitional Probabilities

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.36

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: This article uses the hypothesis that language must balance predictability and informativeness to segment syllable streams into words. It shows that this method works somewhat better and more intuitively than its competing candidate for children's method of achieving word cognition. It further shows that syllable statistics fall within a specified range and argues that borderline cases are either victims of over-fitting or likely candidates for language change.

Author(s): Paul Juinn Bing Tan, Phillip Potamites, Paul Juinn Bing Tan, Yao Hui-mei

Some results on generalized $alpha$-$psi$-contractive multivalued mappings of integral type

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: In 2014, Karapinar et al. introduced integral type $alpha$-$psi$-contractive mappings and multivalued mappings?. Also, very recently, Stojakovic et al., using the weakly demicompact notion, proved some fixed point theorems for integral type contractive multivalued mappings. In this paper, using the notion of $alpha$-admissible multivalued mappings, we give some new results for generalized $alpha$-$psi$-contractive multivalued mappings of integral type. Also, an example is given to illustrate the usability of the results.

Author(s): Babak Mohammadi

ISLAMIC AQEEDAH COMPLIANCE INDEX: A STUDY OF MALAY GENOME IN MALAYSIA

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.40

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: In Islam, sharia and akhlaq are very fundamental in its teaching and so is aqeedah. It is another significant foundation and the three are inter-linked to each other. Aqeedah forms the basis of iman (firm belief), hence if one of the components is missing, one\'s iman is lost or later becomes unbalanced. The basis of this study was to address the prevalent issues of Islamic aqeedah, its concepts and their relevancy in the study of Malay genome in Malaysia. Besides, needs consideration were also discussed in implementing aqeedah-compliance index when conducting genome studies and researches so that they will not contradict the Islamic ethics and faith. This is also to avoid the destruction of humanity and also capable of providing a system that will solve the problems of humanity. In Malaysia, the studies of Malay genome have been administered by the Centre for Pharmacogenomics (iPROMISE), Faculty of Pharmacy, UiTM Puncak Alam Campus, Selangor Malaysia and the Faculty of Applied Science, UiTM Shah Alam Campus, Selangor Malaysia. Overall, researches on Malay genome have successfully developed a database of Malay genetic structure to help developing new drugs and vaccines, diagnosing diseases as well as providing links for these diseases to drugs commonly used for treating. Apparently, much effort has been made to determine the role of genetic variation and its imbalance patterns towards diseases.

Author(s): Engku Ahmad Zaki Engku Alwi, Norazmi Anas, Dr Wan Rohani Wab Taib, Assoc Prof Dr Mohd. Hudzari Haji Razali, Zuraini Yaacob

Examining the Role of Contextualism to Form theEffective Components of Cultural Complex Design

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Contextualism was a prominent featureof architecture and urban design. Contextual architecture, by the advent of postmodernism, became more important and developedits studies on human and socio-cultural aspects of the community. The context of a design includes itsfabric, history, society and culture in which the concept of culture itself encompasses many human and social phenomena. In general, we studycultural complexes by considering social and urban infrastructures. Thoughit is very common to see people who desire forprivacy and like to create and control their personal spaces,according to Rapoport, sometimestheyignoretheir physical comfort in order to satisfy their cultural needs. People can experience inside of the architectural spaces, so theirrelation tosuch spacesis more complicated than that ofartistic spacesof sculpture and painting. As suchday-to-day relationships provide amajor part of one\\\'s life; space becomes the ultimate goal of architecture. Consequently, cultural complexesplay an important role in the performance of the members of any society. By discussing a new approach to contextualism and culture in cultural complex design and also considering the current needs of the society,we can createa set of various spaces with different usages as a place for dialogue and social interaction between citizens.\\r\\nKeywords: Culture, Contextualism, Cultural complex

Author(s): Hesamaddin Sotoudeh, Jalal Ahmadirad

Actinomycetes mediated biogenic synthesis of metal nanoparticles: Progress and challenges

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Actinomycetes mediated biogenic synthesis of metal nanoparticles and their antagonistic activities against human microbial pathogens are well documented. Actinomycetes facilitate both intracellular and extracellular metal nanoparticles synthesis. Actinomycetes are efficient candidates for the production of polydisperse, stable and ultra-small size metal nanoparticles with significant antimicrobial activities. Actinomycetes derived secondary metabolites and new chemical entities are not extensively studied for the synthesis of newer nanoantimicrobials. The present review focuses on biological synthesis of metal nanoparticles from actinomycetes and the scope for exploring actinomycetes derived compounds as metal reducing agents for the synthesis of desired nanoparticles. In addition, the challenges ahead for the synthesis of biogenic metal nanoparticles with desired physiochemical properties such as ultra-small size, large surface to mass ratio, high reactivity and methods to evade unique interactions with biological systems are discussed to improve their chance as an alternative for the development of new therapeutic nanoantimicrobial agents.

Author(s): Krishnan Kannabiran, Manickavelu Manimaran

Could Romania become a food security space in Europe?

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: This article presents the most relevant elements to be taken into account, if the\ndimensions of the present and future food security in Romania are to be analyzed, from\ncomparative perspective with European level. Romania\'s economy has a real advantage, in\nrelation with other European countries, in terms of natural conditions for practicing\nsustainable agriculture. All changes that have occurred in the field of agricultural property\nfrom Romania, in the last 25 years, reveal still poor recovery benefits from the agriculture\ndevelopment and strengthening food security. The dynamics of the key factors of food\nsecurity – agricultural farms - hold a central place within the analysis of the current situation\nin agriculture. The article presents also some ideas regarding financing prospects and\nincreasing capacity of the national system of agricultural production in the next decade. Now,\nRomania looks like being not yet a reliable source of food security in Europe, but this sounds\nlike good news for investors and farmers too. Why and in what manner this situation could be\nchanged soon, it is shown in the following text.\nThe article uses various sources of documentation and publications of the United Nations\nOrganizations, European Council, Eurostat, INS Romania, The Institute for Researching\nQuality of Life from Bucharest, some other Romanian Academy researching institutes and\nothers.

Author(s): Mariana Stanciu, Adina Mihailescu

The financial liberalization and the financial system Is it a good or a bad symbiosis?

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The financial system in any economy occupies an outstanding position in channeling the necessary funds to boost the economic growth. In this context, a critical debate had been launched in an attempt to reveal the mechanism of developing the financial system and increasing its performance vis-ï¿½-vis the other economic cycles' departments. Financial liberalization comes as a strategy to improve the funds pooling and channeling process and come up with the demands of the other economic agents (investors and consumers). The antagonists of the financial liberalization argue that this tactic whether takes the sequencing or big bang approach may lead to hard distortion within the system because it requires the lift up of the government hand on the financial system and let the latter working according to the market law. These laws may deprive a large portion of the society to benefit from the gains of the financial system. This paper tries to explain the interrelations between the financial system and the requirements of the financial liberalization paradigm, and how the latter impact the efficiency of the former.

Author(s): Yousfat Ali

TRANSACTION-SECTORAL STRUCTURE RESEACH METHODOLOGY OF RUSSIAN NATIONAL ECONOMY BASED ON THE STATICAL SYSTEM OF NATIONAL ACCOUNTS

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The main aim is to investigate the interaction of the three sectors of the national economy of Russia: industries, producing capital goods and production services to the organizations (sector A), industries, producing consumer goods and services to the people (sector B) and industries, producing financial services (banking, insurance, investment and other) to the organizations and people (sector C). To achieve this, the author has applied transaction - sectoral research methodology used in the national economy and statistics of national accounts, as well as the calculations of gross output and gross domestic product of Russia for the period from 1961 to 2011. As a result of statistical analysis was developed formalized mathematical model of the interaction of the financial sector to the real sector of the national economy of Russia.

Author(s): Khasanov Ilgizar Shamilevich

Expansion and elongation rates of wheat leaf during early growth in response to nitrogen sources

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Nitrogen fertilizations strongly influence the wheat growth particularly in N deficient soil. The objectives of this study were to quantify the effect of N sources on emergences, growth rates, chlorophyll content, phyllochron and dry matter of wheat. Wheat (AC Barrie variety) was grown in glasshouse at the University of Bangor, Wales, UK for 31 days in pots having five N treatments i.e. ordinary soil, 100 kg N ha-1 as nitram, compost, farmyard manure (FYM) @ 12.5 and 25 tons ha-1. The glasshouse was set at temperature of 18 and 20ï¿½C during night and day, respectively with a day length of 16 hours and relative humidity of 65-70%. Nitram N delayed emergence of seedling, improved chlorophyll contents, leaf length, and plants tallness. Linear elongation rate and leaf appearance rate of the leaf were greater for organic N over control. Linear elongation rate was decreased with appearance of leaves. Phyllochron values (ï¿½C days) were decreased as the number of leaves on primary tiller increased. In conclusion, the effects of inorganic N attributed to a reduced leaf numbers and increased leaf elongation rate, whereas organic source of N had increased growth and root dry matter in addition to leaf appearance.

Author(s): Ahmad Khan, Philip A Hollington

High temperature increase in vitro manure mineralization following wheat cultivation

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Mineralization of farmyard manure (FYM) amended soil was assessed in vitro laboratory incubation experiment following wheat cultivation. In the field, treatment were FYM, urea, 50%FYM+50%urea (to provide 120 kg N ha-1), control and wheat varieties (Siran-2010, Atta-habib, Janbaz-2009, and Pirsabak-2008). After wheat harvesting, 100g of fresh soil (sampled from 0-20cm depth) were incubated at 15 and 25ï¿½C for five weeks. Janbaz-09 applied with urea+FYM had maximum yield and yield components over other treatments. The mineral N was 30-35 times greater in plots having FYM or FYM+urea over control. At 25 ï¿½C, mineral N was higher than at 15 ï¿½C. Soil total N was in the order of FYM>FYM+urea>urea>control. SOC decrease over incubation period. The decrease was steeper in FYM and/or urea+FYM than control. At 25 ï¿½C, the final SOC content in FYM+urea was 7% greater than at 15 ï¿½C over the initial SOC. Likewise, in case of FYM the SOC decreased by 30 % (at 15 ï¿½C) and 35% (at 25 ï¿½C) from initial SOC. The higher mineral N availability is strongly associated with decreased in SOC. In conclusion, the FYM+urea had increased the wheat production, whereas sole FYM amended soil increased the soil mineral N at 25 ï¿½C.

Author(s): Ahmad Khan, Abdul Qadoos, Aaqil Khan, Ihsan Muhammad, Waqar Ali

On Fuzzy Coincidence Points

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: We prove the existence of coincidence points of a pair of fuzzy mappings satisfying a Banach type contractive condition by using MT-function to generalize a well-known Nadler fixed point theorem and many of its recent generalizations. Moreover, we extend the notion of weak compatibility of fuzzy mappings with crisp mappings and use it to obtain fixed points of fuzzy mappings.

Author(s): Akbar Azam, Maliha Rashid,Nayyar Mehmood

Evaluating Post Conversion Electrical Energy Due To Solar Radiation - A Case Study

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: This research relates to the estimation and analysis of Solar Irradiance in Meerut located in the NCR (national capital region) of India having longitude 77.706 (77ï¿½ 43' east) and latitude 28.984 (28ï¿½ 59' north). The solar irradiance energy which varies according to geographical disposition and weather conditions depends upon variation in the Global and Diffuse components of solar radiation. Barring rainy season from end of June to September every year, the diffuse components of solar radiation are found to be substantially large and the solar energy available in the region is quite in abundance. This work estimates variation in the components of complete solar irradiance and explores possible deployment of available solar radiation energy for conversion and possible mitigation of the energy crisis in the region.

Author(s): Ashok Kumar Rajput, Sunil Kumar GoelPraveen Kumar

Islamic Aqeedah Compliance Index: A Study of Malay Genome in Malaysia

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: In Islam, sharia and akhlaq are very fundamental in its teaching and so is aqeedah. It is another significant foundation and the three are inter-linked to each other. Aqeedah forms the basis of iman (firm belief), hence if one of the components is missing, one’s iman is lost or later becomes unbalanced. The basis of this study was to address the prevalent issues of Islamic aqeedah, its concepts and their relevancy in the study of Malay genome in Malaysia. Besides, needs consideration were also discussed in implementing aqeedah-compliance index when conducting genome studies and researches so that they will not contradict the Islamic ethics and faith. This is also to avoid the destruction of humanity and also capable of providing a system that will solve the problems of humanity. In Malaysia, the studies of Malay genome have been administered by the Centre for Pharmacogenomics (iPROMISE), Faculty of Pharmacy, UiTM Puncak Alam Campus, Selangor Malaysia and the Faculty of Applied Science, UiTM Shah Alam Campus, Selangor Malaysia. Overall, researches on Malay genome have successfully developed a database of Malay genetic structure to help developing new drugs and vaccines, diagnosing diseases as well as providing links for these diseases to drugs commonly used for treating. Apparently, much effort has been made to determine the role of genetic variation and its imbalance patterns towards diseases.

Author(s): Professor Dr Engku Ahmad Zaki bin Engku Alwi, Norazmi Anas, Dr. Wan Rohani Wan Taib, Asoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd. Hudzari Haji Razali, Zuriani Yaacob

ISSR and SCoT as markers for genetic characterization and evaluation of relationships among Aspergillus flavus local isolates

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Five isolates of the Aspergillus flavus, were isolated from Mangrove soil of Ras Mohammed protected area at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. Assiut University Mycological Centre (AUMC), Egypt, identified the fungal strains and deposited in AUMC with their accession numbers. Two molecular marker systems, four SCoT primers (Start codon targeted polymorphism) and six ISSR primers (inter-simple sequence repeat) were employed for identification and genetic relationship between five indigenous Aspergillus isolates. A total of 62 and 48 amplicons were detected by four SCoT and six ISSR primers, among which 57% and 52.35% bands were polymorphic respectively. The genetic similarity among the species ranged from 0.60 to 0.86 using SCoT and 0.74 to 0.94 using ISSR marker systems. Based on the marker analysis all the five isolates were clustered into three major groups for ISSR primer and SCoT primers. Cluster analysis also reveals high genetic variation among the genotypes

Author(s): Ashraf Gamil Attallah

BACKTESTING RISK MODELS IN THE CROATIAN EQUITY MARKET DURING THE PERIOD 2005-2015

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The last global financial crisis has shown that our current understanding of risk is not sufficient in order to measure risk properly, especially in less liquid pre-emerging equity markets. The consequences of the crisis are transferred like a domino effect to those markets, making them practically illiquid. The paper analyzes the out-of-sample forecasting performance of historical simulation (HS), Risk Metrics (EWMA-based VaR), GARCH based VaR and filtered historical simulation (FHS) models at the usual 1% and 5% quantiles on daily data from Croatian stock market index over the period 05.10.2005 through 5.10.2015. VaR forecasts are backtested using Christofersen's methodology, a sequence of statistical tests aimed to appraise the empirical unconditional coverage of forecasts, first-order independence, and correct conditional coverage, which is a composite hypothesis of the two previous ones. The results indicate that 5% VaR based on symmetric GARCH model with normal distribution of innovations behaves reasonably well in the out-of-sample testing period. Filtered historical simulation at 95% confidence level also gives the good results. Standard VaR models mostly used by financial institutions underestimate risk forecast in Croatian equity market in all market circumstances. The backtests are rejected the suitability of HS and RM at any of the shortfall probabilities over the total sample due to significant underestimation of the downside risk.

Author(s): Ivica Terzi?, Marko Milojevi?, Zoran Jeremi?

Effect of oral administration of ethanolic root extract of Gongronema latifolium (Gentianales: Apocynaceae) on the liver enzymes of albino rat

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Gongronema latifolium Benth is a highly medicinal plant commonly used as spices and vegetable. The liver is an essential organ in the body whose main function is detoxification. It secretes enzymes whose level in blood accounts for the state of the liver. Thus, the effect of the ethanolic root extract of Gongronema on the serum levels of the liver enzymes aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine transaminase (ALT) was investigated in male wistar rats. The rats were divided into 5 groups with 18 rats per group: Group A was the control, Group B, Group C, Group D and Group E were treated with 300mg|kg, 200mg|kg, 150mg|kg and 100mg|kg respectively for a period of 28 days. Blood was collected after 7 days of treatment and the liver marker enzymes were determined. There was an increase in the liver enzymes up till the 21st day then a decrease in the liver enzymes. This result suggests that the ethanolic root extract of Gongronema possesses both hepatotoxic and healing effects.

Author(s): Prof. Joseph E. Eyo, FRANCES CHINONYE DIKE

SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHING IN PAKISTAN: THE INTERRELATIONSHIP OF DIDACTICAL STRATEGIES WITH PEDAGOGICAL AND SELF-EFFICACY BELIEFS

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.37

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: The present study explores the actual adoption of didactical strategies in Pakistan and how it is linked to secondary school teachersâ€™ cognitions level; i.e. teachersâ€™ Pedagogical Beliefs and Self-Efficacy Beliefs. In the current study, we involve 395 secondary school teachers from twenty government secondary schools across the largest province of Pakistan. Respondents reported their actual adoption of didactical strategies, â€˜Pedagogical Beliefs, and â€˜Self-Efficacy Beliefs about teachingâ€™ on instruments. The study aimed at describing and explaining the adoption of didactical strategies by linking it to secondary school teachersâ€™ cognitions. In relation to the didactical strategies adoption, Constructivist Beliefs, Traditional Beliefs, instructional Self-Efficacy, decision-making Self-Efficacy and disciplinary Self-Efficacy were linked with didactical strategies. Our findings suggest that: (1) there is generally lower level adoption of varying didactical strategies by secondary school teachers; (2) there is a notable theory-practice gap in the actual classrooms (3) specific teacher cognitions are meaningfully connected with the adoption of didactical strategies. Implications are put forward as to a benchmark-driven professional development policy for secondary school teachers and the establishment of quality monitoring systems in schools.

Author(s): Abid Shahzad, Martin Valcke, Jo Tondeur, Asia Zulfqar

World between Computer Technology & Preserving Traditional Arts

Volume 72, Apr 2016

The process of paper has not been completed.

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: Wayang Kulit Kelantan is the most popular and oldest shadow puppet entertainment in Malaysia. Unfortunately this heritage entertainment is slowly being extinct. Even though with the current updated technologies, globalisation and digital nativeï¿½s era, efforts are essential to ensure that Wayang Kulit will survive with this current scenario. Using 3D computer animation is considered one of the most unique Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) technique to create Wayang Kulit visual styles. Therefore, this paper would like to discuss several issues on implementing 3D computer animation Wayang Kulit by comparing with the traditional or original visual styles of Wayang Kulit entertainment.

Author(s): Dahlan Abd Ghani

MINERAL ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION AND ACCUMULATION PATTERNS WITHIN THREE WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L.) VARIETIES

Volume 72, Apr 2016
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2016.4.38

Hide Abstract | PDF Version

Abstract: This research was carried out during the 2006-2007 growing season in the field under rainfed conditions. The aim of the study was to determine the growth stage effect on distribution and accumulation of mineral elements in three wheat varieties [V1: Yuna (60690), V2: Dahe (61978) and V3: Sfera (61979)]. Wheat plants were sampled in the field during heading, soft dough, hard dough stage, and harvest time. Sample were collected from stem, old leaves, flag leaf and spike. Quntative analysis of mineral elements were determined by polarized energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence (PEDXRF). According to obtained results phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), silicon (Si) and nickel (Ni), strontium (Sr), and barium (Ba) were accumulated in the flag leaf while potassium (K), sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), iron (Fe), and bromine (Br) remained in te old leaves. The higher concentiration of zinc (Zn) was in the spike. Rubidium (Rb) and cerium (Ce) were nearly distributed on the all plant parts. In general concentirations of mineral elements were increased from heading to harvest time. Wheat varieties had different respond to mineral elements distribution and accumulation.

Author(s): M. Sait ADAK, Melahat A. BIRSIN