bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Old and New Minorities: Diversity Governance and Social Cohesion from the Perspective of Minority Rights
Authors: Medda-Windischer Roberta
Published: September 2017

Minority rights instruments have been traditionally applied to old minority groups. This paper examines to what extent these same instruments are conceptually meaningful to the integration of new minorities stemming from migration. The conviction that minority groups, irrespective of their being old or new minorities, have some basic common claims that can be subsumed under a common definition does not mean that all minority groups have all the same rights and legitimate claims: some have only minimum rights, while others have or should be granted more substantial rights; some can legitimately put forward certain claims – not enforceable rights – that need to be negotiated with the majority, while others should not. In order to devise a common but differentiated set of rights and obligations for old and new minority groups, it is essential to analyse the differences and similarities of both categories of minorities, their claims, needs, and priorities; in this way, it will be possible to delineate a catalogue of rights that can be demanded by and granted to different minority groups. Studying the interaction between traditional minorities and migrants or old and new minority groups is a rather new task because so far these topics have been studied in isolation from each other. It is also an important task for future research in Europe since many states have established systems for the rights of old minorities but have not as yet developed sound policies for the integration of new minority groups stemming from migration.
Understanding the Narratives Explaining the Ukrainian Crisis: Identity Divisions and Complex Diversity in Ukraine
Authors: Smoor Lodewijk
Published: September 2017

The central argument of this paper is that radical and opposing interpretations of the Ukrainian conflict in politics and media should be studied as offspring of broader narratives. These narratives can be better understood by examining the national identity of Ukraine. Since Ukrainian national identity shows a high degree of diversity, it offers a rich source of arguments for any party wanting to give an interpretation of the present Ukrainian crisis. Narratives explaining the crisis often ignore this complex diversity or deliberately use elements from it to construct the ‘desired’ narrative.

Firstly, this paper defines four overarching narratives used in the current debate: the geopolitical, the nationalist, the structuralist, and the legal narrative. Secondly, this paper shows how various interpretations fitting within these narratives are all one way or another related to the divisions dividing Ukraine’s complex national identity. Examining the underlying divisions helps to explain the appeal of differing interpretations of the conflict in the West, Ukraine, and Russia. Especially the nationalist narrative and geopolitical narratives show how the complexity of Ukraine’s national identity is deliberately used to construct a narrative.

The combined study of constructed narratives and Ukrainian national identity thus provides valuable material for any scholar or policymaker looking for a deeper understanding of the situation in Ukraine amidst a confusing information war.
Behaviour of Long-Lasting Stress Relaxation of Various Types of Yarns
Authors: Laureckienė Ginta , Milašius Rimvydas
Published: September 2017

The main goal of this researcher is estimating of the possibility of long-lasting (even until 200,000 s) stress relaxation by empirical investigation, which was performed for a few thousands of seconds. The empirical investigations of longlasting stress relaxation of different types of yarns (multifilament polyester, cotton and woollen) at different levels of elongation, i.e. at 3%, 5%, 7% and 10%, were carried out. The method of long-lasting relaxation behaviour prediction by the break-point of relaxation rate as well as the linear dependence of second part of relaxation were used. It was found that the behaviour of relaxation can be described using time logarithmic scale by two straight lines, and the value of stress relaxation in long time period could be estimated by the second line. The break-point of relaxation rate of all kinds of yarns occurs in the area of 100-200 s after relaxations started. The obtained results showed that the place of relaxation break-point depends on the level of elongation but does not depend on the type of yarns.
Numerical Study of Extra-Large Parachute’s Pre-Inflation in Finite Mass Situation
Authors: Sun Zhengkai , Cheng Han , Yang Jing
Published: September 2017

The extra-large parachutes were different from the common parachutes because of their size and opening process. Some undesirable inflation phenomena such as canopy winding and whipping usually appeared in their pre-inflation process. However, the mechanical mechanism of these phenomena was very difficult to be explained by experimental means. In this paper, the pre-inflation process in finite mass situation of an extra-large parachute was calculated by explicit finite elements. According to the results, the pre-inflation process can be subdivided into symmetric inflation stage, undesirable inflation stage, and stable inflation stage. The canopy winding and whipping mainly occurred in the second stage. With the continuous deceleration of parachute-payload system, the top of canopy without effective constraints would appear winding and whipping under the function of inertia force. The canopy winding and whipping increased the difficulty of canopy expanding and then caused asymmetric inflation. The above undesirable phenomena had a great influence on the deceleration effect and were easy to cause the recovery failure. The actual airdrop experiments also proved that the lack of effective constraints on the canopy top will cause undesirable inflation phenomena. The conclusions in this paper can also provide a reference for extra-large parachute design and research.
Another Low Road to Basic Income? Mapping a Pragmatic Model for Adopting a Basic Income in Canada
Authors: Smith-Carrier Tracy A , Green Steven
Published: September 2017

Drawing from both theoretical and empirical research, the literature on basic income (BI) is now voluminous, pronouncing both its merits and its limitations. Burgeoning research documents the impacts of un/conditional cash transfers and negative income tax programs, with many studies highlighting the effectiveness of these programs in reducing poverty, and improving a host of social, economic and health outcomes. We consider possible avenues for BI architecture to be adopted within Canada’s existing constellation of income security programs, to the benefit of disadvantaged groups in society. Identifying key federal and provincial (i.e., Ontario) transfer and tax benefit programs, we highlight which programs might best be maintained or converted to a BI. While opponents decry the (alleged) exorbitant costs of BI schemes, we suggest that the existing approach not only produces an ineffective system—which actually engenders poverty and the health and social problems that accompany it—but an excessively costly one.
Comparative analysis of specialized metabolites and antioxidant capacity in vitro of different natural populations of Globularia spp.
Authors: Friščić Maja , Maslo Semir , Garić Rade , Maleš Željan , Hazler Pilepić Kroata
Published: September 2017

Total phenolic, flavonoid, condensed tannin and iridoid content, as well as antioxidant capacityin vitro,were determined spectrophotometrically in methanolic extracts of different plant parts of the Mediterranean medicinal plantGlobularia alypumL. and three widespread European species of the same genus:G. cordifoliaL.,G. meridionalis(Podp.) O. Schwarz andG. punctataLapeyr. In order to consider possible environmental influences on the production of specialized metabolites, each species, exceptG. alypum, was collected from three different natural populations. Great variations in the amounts of specialized metabolites were observed among different plant parts and species. For example, total phenolic content ranged from 10.13 (G. punctata, flowers) to 44.90 (G. cordifolia, flower stems) mg gallic acid equivalent g−1dry weight. Moreover, great differences, attributed to location-specific environmental factors, were observed among different populations of the same species. For example, a strong positive correlation was observed among mean monthly temperatures and total phenolic contents in the leaves of studiedGlobulariaspp. (r = 0.75, p = 0.019). However, despite these differences, all species were rich in bioactive substances when compared toG. alypum, especially in their aerial parts. A very good positive correlation was observed between total phenolic content and DPPH radical scavenging capacity (r = 0.86, p < 0.001)/ABTS radical scavenging capacity (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). The results obtained show thatG. cordifolia,G. meridionalisandG. punctataare rich in bioactive substances, providing support for their pharmaceutical utilization. Further investigations are needed to verify the possibility of their medicinal use.
Assessment of the genetic relationship of Turkish olives (Olea europaea subsp. europaea) cultivars based on cpDNA trnL-F regions
Authors: Kaya Ergun , Vatansever Recep , Filiz Ertugrul
Published: September 2017

The olive tree (Olea europaeaL.) is one of the major cultivated species in the world, and Mediterranean countries produce about 90% of world cultivated olives. In this study, the genetic relationship of seven Turkish olive cultivars was investigated using non-codingtrnL-Fregions in chloroplastic genome. Cultivars demonstrated a similar sequence length of 330-340 bp with an average 35.26% G+C content. Variable (polymorphic/segregating), parsimony informative and total numbers of the insertion or the deletion of bases in the DNA (indel sites) were 4, 3, and 28, respectively. Nucleotide diversities π and θ were found as 0.00631 and 0.00644 respectively, while Tajima’s D was −0.786. cpDNAtrnL-Fregions of sequenced Turkish olive cultivars had a low level of genetic variations, and these non-coding regions were strictly conserved in all analyzed cultivars. Geographically distant shared more sequence similarities than relatively close cultivars. The phylogenetic analyses indicated that the biogeographic distribution of cultivars does not demonstrate any association inferring cultivar source. These results indicate the possibility of germplasm exchanges among countries or that some indel mutations contribute to variations of the Turkish olive gene pool. Thus, the authorities should develop the necessary programs to preserve the purity of native germplasms.
Implications of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) for Investment Flows Between the European Union and the USA
Authors: Witkowska Janina
Published: September 2017

The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) is a controversial subject, but at the same time it is perceived to be the most comprehensive international agreement on free trade and investment protection. Among the topics that evoke criticism on the part of different social groups is the investor‑state dispute‑settlement (ISDS), as well as its legal consequences for the EU Member states. A less discussed issue is the potential implications of the agreement on the state of economic co‑operation between the European Union and the USA in the field of investment flows, with special reference to foreign direct investment (FDI). The aim of this paper is to present the discussion related to the ISDS and examine some of the economic, political and legal implications of TTIP provisions for FDI flows between the EU and the USA. The proposals of the European Commission to change the investment protection system might be treated as an attempt to make the system of arbitrage more transparent and convincing to societies, and safer for states. The effects of the TTIP agreement for FDI between both partners might be dependent on the scale of trade creation and diversion effects, and the mirror effects of investment creation and diversion under a free trade area.
Moral, moralisches Müssen und Sanktionen
Authors: Stemmer Peter
Published: September 2017

The primary aim of this article is to respond to recent discussion on the sanction theory of moral normativity. I have developed such a view in several works, and in face of the strong criticism, I want to reexamine the issue and discuss five main objections. The central question will be how one can make sense of the moral must.
Migration, Flucht und der liberale Staat
Authors: Miller David
Published: September 2017

This paper asks how a modern liberal state that wishes to remain true to its own values should respond to mass inward migration. Three of those values – freedom, equality of opportunity, and human rights – appear to support fully open borders. But a democratic welfare state needs citizens who trust one another, and this in turn raises questions of cultural identity. The cultural integration of immigrant groups requires limits to the numbers being admitted, and the selection of those who will become citizens in future. A closer inspection of the three open borders arguments reveals that none of them is decisive. In particular, immigration is not a human right. Nevertheless refugees, whose human rights are imperilled, may have strong claims to be admitted by liberal states. Ideally these claims should be met by setting up an international burden-sharing scheme. Where refugee numbers are so high as to impose severe costs on the receiving state, the decision to admit needs to be democratically authorised.
Zur Legitimität von Staatlichkeit: Eine kosmopolitische Kritik offener Grenzen
Authors: Nida-Rümelin Julian
Published: September 2017

Borders are a constitutive feature of states. Political agency would, therefore, come into conflict with a practice of open borders. This is equally true for the dynamics of unleashed global financial and commodity markets as well as for a global labour market. An unregulated mobility of capital, goods, and people would erode the agency of states and diminish politics to a mere location factor. In the following, I argue in favor of the legitimacy of (state) borders and political control over migratory movements, however, not from a communitarian or even nationalist perspective, but from a cosmopolitan one. Political cosmopolitanism differs from sociological, economic, or cultural variants with regard to the role of politics. While other kinds of cosmopolitanism generally understand globalisation as weakening the agency of states, political cosmopolitanism strives for the establishment of a global institutional order, which allows for democratically legitimised political agency beyond the nation-state. The question is what institutional governance of migration is legitimate in a cosmopolitan framework. The following text discusses the political theory (part 1) and some preliminary philosophical-ethical aspects (part 2) of this topic.
Observations on autochtonous liver flukes in wild ruminants in Slovakia
Authors: Iglódyová A. , Lazar P. , Čurlík J. , Karolová R. , Ciberej J. , Bocková E. , Štrkolcová G.
Published: September 2017

The aim of the study was monitoring of liver flukes in wild ruminants including red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama) and mouflon (Ovis musimon) in selected regions of Slovak Republic. Between 2014 – 2016 we examined 782 faecal samples from selected wild ruminants using coprological techniques and serological methods (ELISA detection of F. hepatica coproantigens). None of the samples was positive for the presence of Fasciola hepatica, 5.89 % of faecal samples were positive for Dicrocoelium dendriticum. Higher prevalence was recorded in mouflon (30.83 %), lower in red deer (1.49 %). D. dendriticum infection was not determined in fallow deer and roe deer. The seasonal distribution of dicrocoeliosis indicated a highest prevalence in autumn. Significantly higher prevalence was recorded in fenced rearing when compared with open hunting grounds, suggesting that animal agglomeration, constant use of the same areas and possible stress are the main risk factors. Parasitological examination of livers of hunted wild ruminants revealed dicrocoeliosis in mouflon.
Epidemiology of Opisthorchis viverrini in an endemic area of Thailand, an integrative approach
Authors: Prakobwong S. , Gunnula W. , Chaipibool S. , Nimala B. , Sangthopo J. , Sirivetthumrong N. , Ribas A.
Published: September 2017

An integrated epidemiological study of Opisthorchis viverrini consisting of risk factors analysis and parasitation prevalence determination in humans, as well as the assessment the roles of host reservoirs (dogs and cats) and intermediate hosts (cyprinid fish) was carried out in the vicinity of Huay Luang dam, Udon Thani province, in the north east of Thailand. The survey was conducted from June 2014 to July 2016 in three sub-districts. Fecal samples were collected from 5,347 participants in 22 villages and the overall prevalence of O. viverrini was found to be 31.5 %. Risk factors for liver fluke infection were determined from questionnaires analysis which sought demographic data and information about the eating behaviors of the participants. The behavior of raw fish consumption correlated significantly with parasitation in the studied areas. The risk factors for O. viverrini infection in humans were associated significantly with age, education, and habitation within a two kilometer range from nearby water and food sources. Questionnaires showed that the drug treatments were not always appropriate. The stools of domestic dogs (n = 468) and cats (n = 262) collected for parasitological analysis and results showed that the zoonotic role of dogs should not be underestimated as has been done previously/in past. The incidence of O. viverrini metacercariae in four cyprinid fishes Barbonymus gonionotus (n = 124), Cyclocheilichthys repasson (n = 843), Hampala dispar (n = 276) and Henicorhynchus siamensis n = 946), were determined and overall values ranged from 2.4 % to 23.1 %. There was a seasonal variation in metacercariae intensity which ranged from 1 – 125 metacercariae per fish. The study concluded that transmission ecology should be taken into consideration in developing of control strategies against opisthorchiasis.
First report of multiple anthelmintic resistance in goat farm in Cuba
Authors: Arece-García J. , López-Leyva Y. , Olmedo-Juárez A. , Ramírez-Vargas G. , Reyes-Guerrero D. , López Arellano Ma. E. , De Gives P. Mendoza , Várady M. , Rojo-Rubio R. , González-Garduño R.
Published: September 2017

This study determined the efficacies of four classes of anthelmintics (AH) in a goat flock where anthelmintic resistance (AR) to ivermectin was suspected. We selected and randomly distributed 105 animals with >500 eggs per gram of feces into seven groups of 15 animals: an untreated control group and groups treated with ivermectin, eprinomectin, albendazole sulfoxide, albendazole, levamisole, and closantel. The goats were individually weighed and treated with the recommended dose. Fecal samples were collected 14 days post-treatment to determine the fecal egg counts and for a fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). Coprocultures were also performed for identifying any resistant genera. A molecular assay (polymerase chain reaction, PCR) was used to confirm benzimidazole resistance. The FECRTs for the ivermectin, eprinomectin, albendazole sulfoxide, and albendazole treatments were <90 %, indicating multiple anthelmintic resistance, all in Haemonchus spp. Levamisole had a FECRT confidence interval <90 %, indicating a moderate level of AR. The PCR detected the ß-tubulin alleles responsible for benzimidazole resistance, confirming AR. This study is the first monospecific report of AR in goats in Cuba, with a total failure of macrocyclic lactones anthelmintic class.
Ectopic adrenal tissue associated with borderline mucinous cystadenoma of ovary: a case report with review of the literature
Authors: Chew Kah Teik , Abu Muhammad Azrai , Arifuddin Yulianty , Mohamed Ismail Nor Azlin , Nasir Noor Ain Mohd , Mohammed Fazarina , Nur Azurah Abdul Ghani
Published: September 2017

Ectopic adrenal tissue in the ovary is a rare entity. We reported a case of ectopic adrenal tissue in borderline mucinous cystadenoma of the left ovary. A 22 year-old student presented with progressive abdomen distension associated with discomfort for 3 months. Imaging investigation was suggestive of mucinous left ovarian cyst. Left salpingo-oophorectomy was performed and the histopathology revealed borderline mucinous cystadenoma with an incidental finding of ectopic adrenal tissue. This is an interesting case because of its rarity and potential risk of neoplasm changes.
Fitness, body composition and vascular health in adolescent and young adult survivors of paediatric brain cancer and cranial radiotherapy
Authors: Long Treya M. , Rath Shoshana R. , Maroni Tessa D. , Wallman Karen E. , Atkinson Helen C. , Gottardo Nicholas G. , Cole Catherine H. , Choong Catherine S. , Naylor Louise H.
Published: September 2017

Background

Survivors of paediatric brain cancer and/or cranial radiotherapy (CRT) are at an increased risk of developing serious comorbidities. Established risk factors for chronic disease include central obesity, endothelial abnormalities and diminished fitness.

Objectives

Here we characterised anthropometry, body composition, bone mineral density (BMD), heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), endothelial function, muscular strength and endurance and aerobic fitness in adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors.

Methods

Twenty survivors (10 male, 10 female; 20 ± 2 years) were compared with 19 matched controls. Muscular strength was assessed using three repetition maximum tests, while muscular endurance was determined as number of repetitions performed per minute. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) was assessed on a treadmill using a modified chronotropic protocol. Anthropometric measurements, HR and BP were taken using standard clinical protocols, while body composition and BMD were determined using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Endothelial function was measured using the flow mediated dilation technique.

Results

Survivors demonstrated deficits in muscular strength (latissimus dorsi pull-down, p = 0.020; bicep curl, p = 0.009), muscular endurance (squats, p = 0.012; sit-ups, p = 0.030; push-ups, p = 0.013), minute ventilation at peak exericse (p = 0.002) and VO2peak (L/min, p = 0.002; mL/kg/min, p = 0.008; mL/kg LBM/min, p = 0.010). Additionally, survivors had greater waist-to-hip ratios (p = 0.032), resting HR (p = 0.048) and higher percentage of total body (p = 0.017), central (p = 0.009) and peripheral (p = 0.032) fat. Lean body mass (p = 0.004) and BMD (p = 0.005) were lower in the survivor group.

Conclusion

AYA survivors of paediatric brain cancer and/or CRT exhibit altered body composition, increased resting HR and reduced BMD, muscular strength, muscular endurance and cardiorespiratory fitness compared to controls.
Estimation and Inference for the Mediation Proportion
Authors: Nevo Daniel , Liao Xiaomei , Spiegelman Donna
Published: September 2017

In epidemiology, public health and social science, mediation analysis is often undertaken to investigate the extent to which the effect of a risk factor on an outcome of interest is mediated by other covariates. A pivotal quantity of interest in such an analysis is the mediation proportion. A common method for estimating it, termed the “difference method”, compares estimates from models with and without the hypothesized mediator. However, rigorous methodology for estimation and statistical inference for this quantity has not previously been available. We formulated the problem for the Cox model and generalized linear models, and utilize a data duplication algorithm together with a generalized estimation equations approach for estimating the mediation proportion and its variance. We further considered the assumption that the same link function hold for the marginal and conditional models, a property which we term “g-linkability”. We show that our approach is valid whenever g-linkability holds, exactly or approximately, and present results from an extensive simulation study to explore finite sample properties. The methodology is illustrated by an analysis of pre-menopausal breast cancer incidence in the Nurses’ Health Study. User-friendly publicly available software implementing those methods can be downloaded from the last author’s website (SAS) or from CRAN (R).
Preparation of Activated Carbons from Walnut Shell by Fast Activation with H3PO4: Influence of Fluidization of Particles
Authors: Gao Xinyuan , Wu Long , Wan Wenjie , Xu Qing , Li Zhanyong
Published: September 2017

Activated carbons were produced from walnut shell by fast activation with H3PO4in a spouted bed, and the influence of particles fluidization had been investigated. Experimental results showed that walnut shell particles with higher H3PO4impregnation ratios would be agglomerated in spouted bed, and difficult to fluidize. Therefore, an amount of quartz sands were added to assist fluidization of H3PO4impregnated walnut shell particles. The BET surface area of activated carbon prepared under fluidization would be obviously increased with H3PO4impregnation ratio, reaching 1549.6 m2/g for the mass ratio of H3PO4to walnut shell particles of 2 and activation temperature of 700°C. Meanwhile, both of the micro- and meso- pore volumes were increased. In addition, fluidization of particles had very little influence on activated carbon surface functional groups forming. It was found that the activated carbons contained more carbonyl groups (C = O), carboxyl groups (COOH) and some P-containing functional group.
Academic Advising and Student Retention in Distance Learning: The Case of University of Cape Coast, Ghana
Authors: Arhin Vera , Wang’eri Tabitha , Kigen Edward
Published: September 2017

This research investigated the impact of academic advising on student retention in distance learning at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. Explanatory sequential mixed methods design was adopted for the study. The multistage sampling technique was used to sample 727 student participants from a sampling frame of 8731. Four academic advisors and three counsellors at the College of Distance were purposively selected for the study. Further, 16 students who had dropped out from the college were sampled using the snowball sampling technique. A researcher-self constructed questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide were used to collect data. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Analyses of qualitative data were done using Merriam analytical coding process. At an alpha level of .05 academic advising made a non-significant contribution to prediction (p = .10) which implies that academic advising is not a significant predictor of student retention in distance learning. The study concluded by recommending that academic advisory services should be provided in a practical manner to address the specific needs of students at the College of Distance Education of the University of Cape Coast.
The Views of Nature of Science Expressed by In-Service Teachers Who were Learning History and Philosophy of Science
Authors: Mudavanhu Young , Zezekwa Nicholas
Published: September 2017

Science teachers need an adequate understanding of the nature and processes of science as the basis for their pedagogical content knowledge for effective classroom delivery. The aim of the study was to find out in-service teachers’ views on the nature of science (NOS) and how their views compared with informed understanding of the NOS. The study adopted an exploratory case study methodology, qualitative in nature, and used convenience sampling. A questionnaire was administered to 50 in-service teachers doing a bachelor of science honours degree at a selected university in Zimbabwe. The students had done a course in history and philosophy of science where there were exposed to some topics on the NOS. Frequency counts and mean scores were used to describe views of the participants. Analysis involved comparing in-service teachers’ responses with experts’ views. The findings reveal that the students had a naïve understanding of NOS in 5 out of 16 statements from the administered questionnaire. Despite these observations the participants generally had a fair understanding of the NOS as evidenced by the fact that the participants managed to correctly respond to 69% of the questions asked. As such we infer that teaching and learning of nature of science as part of history and philosophy of science had a positive impact on in-service teachers’ views. The few instances when participants’ responses revealed contradictions, suggest that teaching and learning history and philosophy of science may not be adequate to develop a full understanding of nature of science. Further research is recommended with large samples, using a revised Views Of Nature of Science (VNOS) questionnaire and interviews, and document analysis to reveal how nature of science is taught and learnt.
Elements of Content and Presentation of School History Textbooks for Vth Grade of Basic Education in Albania From 1946 to 1991
Authors: Papajani Adrian
Published: September 2017

The study aims to provide a picture of the content and presentation of history texts for the fifth grade of basic education during the period of communist rule in Albania (1946-1991). Part of the analysis in the study are elements of design, organization of written text, book size, paper quality, font size, etc., as an important part of a textbook. The methodology used relies on the prevailing situation in the field and the lack of a single methodological model for studying history texts. For this reason, she relied on a list of questions about the content and pedagogic elements of history texts compiled by UNESCO expert Robert Stradling, adapted to the features of the historical period that include texts taken in the study. The analysis was accompanied by the processing of quantitative and qualitative data extracted from the history textbooks, including illustrations, classified into several sub-categories based on their importance for the development and acquisition by students of historical concepts of “change” and “continuity”. The survey findings reflect the most important features of the field for a period of 45 years, some of whose deficiencies, despite ongoing improvements, continue to be present in current textbooks.
Relative Importance of Indicators of Teachers’ Professional Skills as Perceived by Senior High School Economics Teachers in Ghana
Authors: Yidana Mumuni Baba
Published: September 2017

The study examined differences in perception among Senior High School Economics teachers on the relative importance of indicators of teachers’ professional skills, based on teaching experience. The study employed the descriptive survey method and comprised a sample of 115 professional Economics teachers drawn from the Central Region of Ghana. A self-designed questionnaire was administered on the respondents. The data were analysed using the t-test. The findings of the study showed that highly experienced Economics teachers perceive indicators of teachers’ skills of instructional planning as more important, relative to the experienced Economics teachers. Again, the finding showed a significant difference in perception between the highly experienced and experienced Economics teachers about the relative importance of the skills of instructional assessment. The study recommends the organisation of in-service workshops for sensitisation as well as the creation of a community of learners among SHS Economics teachers for the sharing of knowledge and experiences.
Learning and Earning in the Context of Small-Scale Gold Mining: Examining the Compatibility of Schooling and Work in the Lives of Working Young People in Ghana
Authors: Jonah Osei-Tutu
Published: September 2017

Dominant discourses on young people’s work tend to highlight the dangers associated with their work. Childhood is seen as a time for school and play and work has been tagged as unarguably incompatible with schooling depriving them enjoying their childhood and reaping the full benefits that come with their schooling. However, far from being universally negative in young people’s lives, the contribution of work particularly to their education and well-being should not be overlooked. Misleading results of policies underpinned by dominant discourses hamper the chances of some working young people to benefit from schooling and damage their chances for development. These benefits are particularly crucial to young people in difficult circumstances of poverty and impoverishment. Utilizing child-focused alongside some traditional methods, the paper gives a voice and hearing to the concerns articulated by young workers and other stakeholders. This paper attempts to highlight the creative side of their work and how some young workers are innovatively finding a balance between schooling and work. It exposes the disconnection between interventions towards young people’s educational inclusion and improves well-being vis-a-vis universalised legislations targeted at abolishing their work. The paper is expected to inform a reconsideration of the conventional thinking and global policy on young people’s work in the global south as some young people are indeed demonstrating work-school compatibility.
Influence of Gender, Age and Location on Students Perceived Link of Population Growth and Climate Change
Authors: Ujiro Igbudu , Norris Erhabor Igbinosa
Published: September 2017

Increase in population contributes and it is also affected by climate change, hence it deserves consideration in any climate change policy development strategies. Based on the importance of population growth on climate change, this study was embarked on to ascertain the perception of students to the influence of population growth on the consequences of climate change. The population of the study consisted of undergraduate students in a Federal University in Southern part of Nigeria. A sample size of 362 respondents were selected using systematic sampling to select every one and other halls of residence (3 halls of residence selected out of 6) and simple random sampling of balloting by replacement to select 14% each from the three halls of residence. The questionnaires administered were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and the descriptive and inferential statistical tools were employed to analyze the data gotten. The study revealed that there was a significant difference on the respondents perception based on their gender, age group and home of residence(Urban or rural). Based on these findings, it was recommended among other things that population control measures should be effectively implemented in the country. And any policy on climate change, gender, age group and location should be considered because a gender, age group and location bias policy will increase the severity of the problem.
Positive Discipline Practices in Schools: A Case of Mzilikazi District Secondary Schools in Zimbabwe
Authors: Sibanda Lwazi , Mpofu Mabhena
Published: September 2017

The study assessed factors constraining use of positive discipline practices in Mzilikazi District Secondary Schools. Qualitative approach and case study design were employed. Purposively selected participants from four secondary schools comprised four school heads; twenty members of the disciplinary committee, four school counsellors, forty prefects and four School Development Committee chairpersons. Data analysed thematically were collected using face to face semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews. Results revealed that lack of role models, ineffective communication, not rewarding positive behaviour, ineffective monitoring and inadequate financial resources constrained use of positive discipline practices in selected schools. The study concluded that factors that constrained use of positive discipline practices in schools mainly emanated from teachers, learners, parents and the members of the community. It is recommended that schools should initiate training programmes for teachers and parents to positively influence their discipline practices in enhancing use of positive discipline practices.
Changing Roles of Women: Examining the Reciprocal Effects of Female Academics’ Job and Family Roles in Public Universities in Ghana
Authors: Anane Eric , Dankwa Juliana Audria
Published: September 2017

The role of women in society seems to be predefined in terms of cultural and physiological lines. Some people think the woman is not capable of taking up some executive positions, because they are weak and too feeble to handle certain kinds of work. However, the last decade has seen huge progress in the employment of women in the formal sector. This study therefore explores the factors that affect the work and family life of female lecturers. Data was generated from the administration of questionnaires on 105 women lecturers, who were conveniently selected from two public universities in the central region of Ghana. Our findings from the study indicated that factors such as teaching large classes, lack of teaching/learning materials, family responsibilities and pressure and demanding Deans and Heads of Departments, affected female lecturers’ job performance. The results also suggest that females academics involved in the study were least bothered about issues on their promotion and personal goals. We recommended that University management would have to come to terms with the requirements of managing tension among women to make the environment potentiating and favourable so as to keep adroit women in higher education.
Gradient Dynamics and Entropy Production Maximization
Authors: Janečka Adam , Pavelka Michal
Published: September 2017

We compare two methods for modeling dissipative processes, namely gradient dynamics and entropy production maximization. Both methods require similar physical inputs–-how energy (or entropy) is stored and how it is dissipated. Gradient dynamics describes irreversible evolution by means of dissipation potential and entropy, it automatically satisfies Onsager reciprocal relations as well as their nonlinear generalization (Maxwell–Onsager relations), and it has statistical interpretation. Entropy production maximization is based on knowledge of free energy (or another thermodynamic potential) and entropy production. It also leads to the linear Onsager reciprocal relations and it has proven successful in thermodynamics of complex materials. Both methods are thermodynamically sound as they ensure approach to equilibrium, and we compare them and discuss their advantages and shortcomings. In particular, conditions under which the two approaches coincide and are capable of providing the same constitutive relations are identified. Besides, a commonly used but not often mentioned step in the entropy production maximization is pinpointed and the condition of incompressibility is incorporated into gradient dynamics.
Using Genetic Algorithm for Optimizing 1D Thue–Morse Photonic Crystal-Based Filter
Authors: Tavakoli Golnaz , Andalib Alireza
Published: September 2017

In this article we designed an optical filter based on 1D photonic crystals. Then optimized the proposed structure using genetic algorithm. The proposed filter was designed using generalized Thue–Morse series. After optimizing the proposed structure, we can improve the quality factor of the proposed structure.
Effects of packaging methods on shelf life of ratite meats
Authors: Horbańczuk Olaf K. , Wierzbicka Agnieszka
Published: September 2017

Over the last years a growing demand for ratite meat, including ostrich, emu, and rhea has been observed in the world. Ratite meat is recognised as a dietetic product because of low level of fat, high share of PUFA, favourable n6/n3 ratio, and higher amounts of iron content in comparison with beef and chicken meat. The abundance of bioactive compounds, e.g. PUFA, makes ratite meat highly susceptible to oxidation processes. Moreover, pH over 6 creates favourable environment for fast microbial growth during storage conditions affecting its shelf life. However, availability of information on ratite meat shelf life among consumers and industry is still limited. Thus, the aim of the present review is to provide current information about the effect of ratite meat packaging type, i.e. air packaging, vacuum packaging with skin pack, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), on its shelf life quality during storage, including technological and nutritional properties.
Prevalence of C. botulinum and C. perfringens spores in food products available on Polish market
Authors: Grenda Tomasz , Grabczak Magdalena , Kwiatek Krzysztof , Bober Andrzej
Published: September 2017

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium perfringens in food samples purchased from Polish producers. Material and Methods: The analyses were performed on 260 food samples collected in Lublin and Subcarpathian regions: 56 of smoked meat, 21 of pork meat, 20 of dairy products, 26 of vegetable and fruit preserves, 40 of ready-to-eat meals, 27 of fish preserves, and 70 of honey collected directly from apiaries. Results: C. botulinum strains were isolated from 2.3% (6/260) of samples and the isolates were classified as toxin types A (4/260) and B (2/260). C. perfringens strains were isolated from 14% (37/260) of samples. All the isolates were classified as toxin type A, 28 of them were able also to produce α toxin and 9 - β2 toxin. Conclusion: On the basis of the obtained results it could be suggested that risk assessment, especially regarding the entire honey harvesting process, should be provided in order to ensure the microbiological safety of the products to be consumed by infants and people with a weakened immune system.
Mitral regurgitation in Dachshund dogs without heart murmurs
Authors: Garncarz Magdalena , Parzeniecka-Jaworska Marta , Hulanicka Magdalena , Jank Michał , Szaluś-Jordanow Olga , Kurek Anna
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Older small breed dogs are considered at risk for heart failure secondary to chronic mitral valve disease. However, few data are available on the onset of this disease in such dogs. This study was performed to determine if auscultation alone can be used to eliminate clinically relevant mitral valve regurgitation seen in echocardiography in Dachshund dogs. Material and Methods: Clinical and echocardiographic data were obtained from 107 dogs without heart murmurs. Results: The study revealed that 63.6% of the dogs had mitral regurgitation. Numbers increased with age and a larger percentage of male Dachshunds were affected than female Dachshunds. Mitral valve prolapse and thickening were mild, and the regurgitant area inextensive in most dogs. Conclusions: The study shows that mitral valve regurgitation is prevalent (63.6%) in Dachshunds without heart murmurs. Typical lesions often become apparent during echocardiographic examinations in dogs under 5 years of age.
Hoof quality of Anglo-Arabian and Haflinger horses
Authors: Tocci Roberto , Sargentini Clara , Martini Andrea , Andrenelli Luisa , Pezzati Antonio , Benvenuti Doria , Giorgetti Alessandro
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Foot quality is essential to the horse’s movement. The barefoot approach favours the animal’s welfare. Environment and selection determine hoof characteristics. Material and Methods: Hoof characteristics of eight Anglo-Arabian (AA) and nine Haflinger (HA) horses were studied. After a preliminary visual analysis of feet, nail samples were collected after trimming for physico-chemical analysis. The parameters were submitted to analysis of variance. A principal component analysis and a Pearson correlation were used to compare mineral contents. Results: The hooves of both breeds were healthy and solid. The hooves of HA horses were longer than those of AA horses (14.90 ±0.30 cm vs 13.10 ±0.60 cm), while the AA hoof was harder than the HA hoof both in the wall (74.55 ±2.95 H vs 60.18 ±2.67 H) and sole (67.00 ±5.87 H vs 43.0 ±4.76 H). In comparison with the sole, the AA hoof wall also had a lower moisture percentage (12.56 ±0.67% vs 20.64 ±0.76%), while crude protein and ash contents were similar in both regions. The AA hoof showed a higher Se content, while the HA hoof had a higher level of macroelements. The negative correlations of K with Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, and Zn in the AA hoof may indicate osmoregulation activity. Conclusion: The hoof morphology of AA and HA horses met the literature parameters for mesomorphic horses. Both breeds had healthy and well-conformed hooves, useful for sport and recreation activities.
Importance of Wild Species Kept in Captivity as Reservoirs of Salmonella Serotypes for Human in Petting Exhibitions and Zoo in Iran with Focus on Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Staji Hamid , Zandiar Ladan
Published: September 2017

Salmonella spp. is the leading cause of zoonotic enteric diseases wich represents a public health concern worldwide. The incidence of zoo-associated salmonellosis is rather high due to the high prevalence and shedding of this bacterium from wild animals specially kept in stressful conditions. To determine the potential public health risk presented by zoo animals in Semnan, we investigated the prevalence of Salmonella serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium among wild animal species kept in the zoo and pet shops. Totally, 152 fecal samples from species in the zoo and pet shops were collected and Salmonella prevalence and identification was assessed via standard bacteriologic culture methods, serotyping, multiplex-PCR and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Overall, 21% (32/152) of the samples were confirmed positive for Salmonella and serotyping showed 12.5% (19/32) Salmonella serovar Enteritidis and 8.5% (13/32) serovar Typhimurium, respectively. All the Salmonella isolates were sensitive to Chloramphenicole, Flurefenicole, Meropenem, Ceftizoxime, Imipenem and Ampicillin, while resistance was observed in the case of Nalidixic acid (78%) as the highest resistance, Streptomycin (28%), Oxytetracycline, Neomycin, Furazolidone (each one 15%) and Lincospectin (9.3%). The high occurrence of multidrug resistance Salmonella in zoo and pet animals represents a potential threat to public health and requires strict surveillance and application of hygienic criteria.
The Reelection Issue and the Optimal Duration of Presidential Terms
Authors: Turbay Gabriel , Reyes Giovanni E.
Published: September 2017

Presidential democratic regimes impose constitutional limits on the duration of the president’s term and on the possible occurrence of subsequent reelections. Term limits and reelection restrictions also exist in the government of corporations and firms for the chairman of the board and for the board members. In this paper, an attempt is made to identify what the major reasons for this limitations and restrictions could be. A related archetypical cost structure, also found in Inventory Theory and Waiting Lines Theory, is identified and modeled to study factors such as the cost of corruption, which are key factors in determining the optimal duration for a government term. A game theoretical consideration of corruption and term limitations strategies is presented at the end of the paper.