bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS KEMAMPUAN KOMUNIKASI MATEMATIS MAHASISWA DALAM MENYELESAIKAN MASALAH PADA MATA KULIAH PROGRAM LINEAR
Authors: Purwati Heni , Nugroho Aryo Andri
Published: October 2017

Komunikasi matematis merupakan salah satu kemampuan yang harus dibekalkan kepada siswa dalam pendidikan di Indonesia seperti disebutkan dalam PP  Nomor  19 tahun 2005 tentang Standar Nasional Pendidikan. Hasil observasi dan wawancara dengan dosen mata kuliah program linear dibutuhkan kemampuan komunikasi matematis dalam menyelesaikannya. Subjek dalam penelitian ini ialah mahasiswa Pendidikan Matematika Universitas PGRI Semarang yang sedang mengambil mata kuliah program linear dan subyek dalam penelitian ini berjumlah 3. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode dokumentasi, observasi, dan wawancara mendalam. Teknik analisis data menggunakan model analisis interaksi, dimana komponen reduksi sajian data dilakukan bersamaan dengan proses pengumpulan data. Setelah data terkumpul, ketiga komponen dianalisis secara interaksi. Hasil yang diperoleh dari hasil triangulasi diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa subyek 3 mempunyai komunikasi matematis yang baik yang terlihat pada tingkat kemampuan pemecahan masalah yang baik pula yaitu kemampuan pemahaman masalah, perencanaan penyelesaian masalah, pelaksanaan perencanaan masalah serta kemampuan memeriksa kembali. Sedangkan subyek 1 dan subyek 2 mempunyai komunikasi matematis yang cukup baik yang terlihat pada tingkat kemampuan pemecahan masalah yang kurang sempurna yaitu kurang dapat melakukan peninjauan kembali terhadap hasil pekerjaannya.
PENERAPAN PERMAINAN SALDERMATH ALGEBRA DALAM PELAJARAN MATEMATIKA SISWA KELAS VII SMP DI KARAWANG
Authors: Hakim Dori Lukman
Published: October 2017

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen dengan metode quasi exsperimental dengan menggunakan desain kelompok kontrol non ekuivalen, yang bertujuan untuk melihat perbedaan, peningkatan, dan perbedaan peningkatan, dari kelas eksperimen pembelajaran dengan penggunaan saldermath algebra dan kelas kontrol dengan pembelajaran konvensional. Populasi penelitian merupakan seluruh siswa kelas VII di SMP Rawamerta  sebanyak 75 siswa, diambil sampel sebanyak 75 siswa dengan cara Cluster  Sampling. Instrumen penelitian menggunakan tes uraian kemampuan aljabar, dan di analisis dengan menggunakan uji-T, uji Mann-Whitney dan uji Gain. Dari hasil penelitian diperoleh beberapa kesimpulan antara lain, pencapaian kemampuan aljabar siswa yang pembelajarannya menerapkan permainan Saldermath Agebra berbeda dengan kemampuan aljabar siswa yang menggunakan pembelajaran langsung secara keseluruhan dan pengelompokan kemampuan awal matematis siswa. Peningkatan kemampuan aljabar siswa yang pembelajarannya menerapkan permainan Saldermath Agebra lebih tinggi dibandingkan dengan kemampuan aljabar siswa yang menggunakan pembelajaran langsung secara keseluruhan sama halnya berdasarkan pengelompokan kemampuan awal matematis siswa kelompok tinggi dan kelompok sedang, akan tetapi peningkatannya tidak lebih tinggi berdasarkan kelompok rendah. Kemudian minat belajar matematis siswa sebelum dan sesudah pembelajaran menerapkan permainan Saldermath Agebra berbeda.
PENGARUH PEMBELAJARAN BAURAN (BLENDED LEARNING) TERHADAP MOTIVASI SISWA PADA MATERI RELASI DAN FUNGSI
Authors: Hima Lina Rihatul
Published: October 2017

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui pengaruh pembelajaran bauran (blended learning) terhadap motivasi belajar siswa kelas VIII pada materi relasi dan fungsi. Penelitian studi kasus ini menggunakan penelitian kuantitatif karena data penelitian berupa angka-angka dan analisis menggunakan statistik. Analisis ini digunakan untuk mengetahui adakah pengaruh antara variabel bebas (independent variable) terhadap variabel terikat (dependent variable). Penelitian ini dilaksanakan diSMP YBPK Kediri yang beralamatkan di Jalan Mayor Bismo No. 52 Kelurahan Semampir, Kediri. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh siswa SMP YBPK Kota Kediri dan sampel yang digunakan adalah siswa kelas VIII SMP YBPK Kota Kediri dimana hanya terdapat satu kelas untuk kelas VIII. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada semester ganjil tahun ajaran 2015/2016tepatnya pada bulan September 2015. Penerapan pembelajaran bauran (blended learning) ini terbukti dapat meningkatkan motivasi belajar siswa dalam mengikuti pembelajaran matematika. Hal ini terlihat dari munculnya indikator-indikator motivasi belajar siswa di kelas setelah dilakukannya pembelajaran bauran (blended learning). Siswa terlihat bersemangat, penuh perhatian, bersungguh – sungguh dalam belajar, serta aktif berdiskusi dan mencari tambahan materi melalui internet. Hal ini sesuai dengan apa yang diungkapkan Sardiman (2011: 75) bahwa pada proses pembelajaran, motivasi dapat dikatakan sebagai keseluruhan daya penggerak di dalam diri siswa yang menimbulkan kegiatan belajar, sehingga tujuan yang dikehendaki oleh subjek belajar itu dapat tercapai.
BERMAIN SEBAGAI SARANA PENGEMBANGAN KREATIVITAS ANAK USIA DINI
Authors: Ardiyanto Asep
Published: October 2017

Bermain bagi anak usia dini adalah sesuatu yang sangat penting dalam perkembangankepribadiannya. Bermain bagi seorang anak tidak sekedar mengisi waktu, tetapi media bagi anak untukbelajar. Setiap bentuk kegiatan bermain pada anak mempunyai nilai positif terhadap perkembangankepribadiannya. Namun kegiatan bermain bebas sering menjadi kunci pembuka bagi gudang-gudangbakat kreatif yang dimiliki setiap manusia. Bermain bagi anak berguna untuk menjelajahi dunianya, danmengembangkan kompetensinya dalam usaha mengatasi dunianya dan mengembangkan kreativitasanak. Fungsi bermain bagi anak usia dini dapat dijadikan intervensi yang jika dilaksanakan dengan tepat,baik dilengkapi dengan alat maupun tanpa alat akan sangat membantu perkembangan sosial, emosional,kognitif, afektif, psikomotorik pada umumnya, dan mengembangkan daya kreativitas anak.
Analisis Buku Ajar Termodinamika dengan Konsep Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) untuk Penguatan Kompetensi Belajar Mahasiswa
Authors: Huda Choirul , Sulisworo Dwi , Toifur Moh
Published: October 2017

Telah dilakukan studi analisis content buku ajar termodinamika dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui kebutuhan penggunaan modul berbasis Technological Pedagogical And Content Knowledge (TPACK) pada mata kuliah termodinamika. TPACK merupakan pengetahuan yang menggabungkan hubungan antara teknologi, pedagogik, dan konten secara sinergis. Metode penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Penelitian ini untuk menganalisis isi dari buku-buku referensi yang digunakan dalam pembelajaran. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi dan angket. Hasil analisis kandungan TPACK pada buku ajar I, buku ajar II, buku ajar III masing-masing didapatkan prosentase sebesar 15,38%, 20%, dan 28,57%. Hasil angket responden 23 mahasiswa pendidikan fisika menyatakan bahwa 87% mahasiswa menyatakan perlunya dikembangkan modul termodinamika berbasis TPACK yang mendukung pemahaman konsep.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Siswa Melalui Penerapan Model Project Based Learning
Authors: Dewi Bella Mirdza Mutia , Khoiri Nur , Kaltsum Ummi
Published: October 2017

Telah dilakukan Penelitian yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui hasil penerapan model project based learning terhadap peningkatan kemampuan pemecahan masalah pada konsep Gravitasi menurut Newton. Penelitian ini dilakukan di MA Negeri Babakan Lebaksiu Tegal tahun pelajaran 2016/2017. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain eksperimen pretest-posttest control group design. Populasi penelitian ini adalah kelas XI IPA MA Negeri Babakan Lebaksiu Tegal. Teknik pengambilan sampel dengan menggunakan teknik simple random sampling dengan mengambil 2 kelas secara acak, kelas XI IPA 3 sebagai kelas eksperimen yang mendapat pembelajaran dengan model project based learning sedangkan kelas XI IPA 4 sebagai kelas kontrol yang menggunakan pembelajaran konvensional. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat perbedaan kemampuan pemecahan masalah fisika siswa kelas XI, dapat dilihat dari uji hipotesis satu pihak antara kelas eksperimen yang mendapat pembelajaran dengan menggunakan model project based learning dan kelas kontrol yang menggunakan pembelajaran konvensional diperoleh thitung > ttabel, yaitu 3,68 > 1,57 hal itu dapat disimpulkan Ha = diterima dan H0 = ditolak sehingga hasil nilai kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa yang menggunakan model project based learning pada kelas eksperimen lebih baik dari kelas kontrol yang tidak diterapkan model project based learning.
Effects of TiB2 nanoparticle content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of aluminum matrix nanocomposites
Authors: Kandemir Sinan
Published: October 2017

The present work reports the fabrication of A357 alloy matrix nanocomposites reinforced with 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 wt.-% TiB2nanoparticles (20–30 nm) by a novel method which is the combination of semi-solid mechanical mixing and ultrasonic dispersion of nanoparticles in liquid state. The microstructural and mechanical properties of the fabricated nanocomposites were investigated. The microstructural studies conducted with optical and advanced electron microscopes indicated that reasonably effective deagglomeration and uniform distribution of TiB2 nanoparticles into the matrix were achieved. Transmission electron microscopy studies also confirmed that the nanoparticles were embedded into the matrix and a good bonding was obtained between the matrix and the reinforcement. Increasing nanoparticle content led to grain refinement and significant enhancement in the mechanical properties of nanocomposites. The addition of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 wt.-% TiB2 nanoparticles increased the 0.2 % proof stress of matrix alloy by approximately 31, 48 and 61 %, respectively. The contribution of different mechanisms to the strength enhancement is discussed. It is proposed that the strengthening is mainly due to Orowan mechanism and dislocation generation effect by the coefficient of thermal expansion mismatch between the TiB2 nanoparticles and the matrix.
Effect of isothermal quenching on microstructure and properties of a forged and unforged Fe-B cast alloy
Authors: Zhang Jianjun , Liao Huimin , Ma Sude
Published: October 2017

The effect of isothermal quenching on microstructure and properties of forged and unforged Fe-B cast alloy were investigated in this paper. The prepared samples were analyzed using scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that, after isothermal quenching, the matrix transforms into lower bainite, but the morphology of boride remains nearly unchanged compared with its as-cast condition. Compared with water quenching, the hardness of forged and unforged samples after isothermal quenching is lower than the hardness of that after water quenching. The impact toughness of forged and unforged samples after isothermal quenching is higher than after water quenching. In two-body abrasion test, the wear resistance of forged and unforged samples after isothermal quenching is lower than that of forged and unforged samples after water quenching. In three-body abrasion test, the wear resistance of forged and unforged samples after isothermal quenching shows opposite behavior and is higher than that of forged and unforged samples after water quenching.
Abrasive wear and frictional behavior of polyoxymethylen
Authors: Kahraman Funda , Esme Uğur , Kulekci Mustafa Kemal , Ocalir Seref
Published: October 2017

In the present study, abrasive wear and frictional behaviors of polyoxymethylene were investigated experimentally. To realize this, a test apparatus was designed and fabricated. Wear tests were carried out under dry conditions at room temperature. A central composite design was used to describe response and to estimate the parameters in the model. An empirical model had been developed to predict wear loss as a function of applied load and sliding distance. Friction coefficient decreases with increase in applied load. On the other hand, it is also found that friction coefficient increases with the increase in sliding velocity.
Effect of La doping on crystalline orientation, microstructure and dielectric properties of PZT thin films
Authors: Xu Wencai , Li Qi , Yin Zhifu , Wang Xing , Zou Helin
Published: October 2017

Lanthanum (La)-modified lead zirconate titanate (PLZT) thin films with doping concentration from 0 to 5 at.-% have been fabricated by sol-gel methods to investigate the effects of La doping on crystalline orientation, microstructure and dielectric properties of the modified films. The characterization of PLZT thin films were performed by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and precision impedance analysis. XRD analysis showed that PLZT films with La doping concentration below 4 at.-% exhibited (100) preferred orientation. SEM results indicated that PLZT films presented dense and columnar microstructures when La doping concentration was less than 3 at.-%, while the others showed columnar microstructures only at the bottom of the cross section. The maximum dielectric constant (1502.59 at 100 Hz) was obtained in a 2 at.-% La-doped film, which increased by 53.9 % compared with undoped film. Without introducing a seed layer, (100) oriented PLZT thin films were prepared by using conventional heat treatment process and adjusting La doping concentration.
Identification of the damage degree of concrete with different water cement ratios using the acousto-ultrasonic technique
Authors: Yan Wang , Lu Ge , Jie Chen Shi , Ting Zhang Ting , Li Zhou
Published: October 2017

In order to study the effect of water cement ratio on the damage degree of concrete at different stress levels, the acoustic and acousto-ultrasonic characteristics of concrete with different water cement ratio under multi-stage loading were analyzed. It was concluded that with the increase of the damage degree of concrete, the damage variable and the third harmonic ratio increased, while the acousto-ultrasonic velocity and acousto-ultrasonic energy decreased. Among them, the third harmonic ratio was the most sensitive parameter affecting the damage degree. The compressive strength of concrete decreased with the increase of water cement ratio, and they were linearly related. Furthermore, with the increase of the stress level or the increase of the water cement ratio, the damage of concrete occurred during the holding period increased.
ANN surface roughness prediction of AZ91D magnesium alloys in the turning process
Authors: Buldum Berat Barış , Şık Aydın , Akdağlı Ali , Biçer Mustafa Berkan , Aldaş Kemal , Özkul İskender
Published: October 2017

This contribution presents an approach for the modeling and prediction of surface roughness in the turning of AZ91D magnesium alloys using an artificial neural network. The experiments were conducted with CCGT, DCGT and VCGT cutting tools under minimum quantity lubrication and dry machining conditions. AZ91D alloys were machined at different cutting speeds and feed rates, and the depth of cut was kept constant. 15 out of 18 experimental data points were used for the training of the artificial neural network model and the remaining 3 were used for the testing process. The average percentage error was calculated as 0.000815 % and 0.663 % for training and testing, respectively. The model and target results were found to have extremely low error rates.
Phase diagram, thermodynamic investigations, and modelling of systems relevant to lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Fürtauer Siegfried , Li Dajian , Henriques David , Beutl Alexander , Giel Hans , Cupid Damian , Markus Thorsten , Flandorfer Hans
Published: October 2017

This article reports on two consecutive joint projects titled “Experimental Thermodynamics and Phase Relations of New Electrode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries”, which were performed in the framework of the WenDeLIB 1473 priority program “Materials with new Design for Lithium Ion Batteries”. Hundreds of samples were synthesized using experimental techniques specifically developed to deal with highly reactive lithium and lithium-containing compounds to generate electrochemical, phase diagram and crystal structure data in the Cu–Li, Li–Sn, Li–Sb, Cu–Li–Sn, Cu–Li–Sb and selected oxide systems. The thermochemical and phase diagram data were subsequently used to develop self-consistent thermodynamic descriptions of several binary systems. In the present contribution, the experimental techniques, working procedures, results and their relevance to the development of new electrode materials for lithium ion batteries are discussed and summarized. The collaboration between the three groups has resulted in more than fifteen (15) published articles during the six-year funding period.
A Case Report of Stroke in a Young Recreational Drug Abuser with Left Ventricular Apical Myxoma with Lupus Nephritis, Secondary Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Homocysteinemia
Authors: Habib Rumana , Islam Reezwan , Miah Md Babul , Islam Md Rashedul , Rahman Aminur , Bhowmik Nirmalendu Bikash
Published: October 2017

In young adults 20%-47% cases of stroke is due to cardiac embolism. Cardiac Myxoma is an infrequent cause of embolic stroke in young. We are reporting a case of a ischemic stroke in a young adult of 34 years with a history of recreational drug use who was eventually diagnosed with Left Ventricular Apical Myxoma, Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE), Lupus Nephritis, Secondary Anti phospholipid Syndrome, Hyper homocysteinemia, and Dyslipidemia.Bangladesh Heart Journal 2017; 32(1) : 55-61
Rising trend to Caesarean Section in Bangladesh: An Upcoming Health Hazards to Women
Authors: Das Shila Rani
Published: October 2017

Abstract not availableFaridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 53
Intravenous Iron Treatment in Pregnancy: Ferric Carboxymaltose for Correction of Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Authors: Zeba Dilruba , Khanam Parvin Akter , Ahamed Mansur , Khair Md Abul
Published: October 2017

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency state of women in childbearing age. Peri-partum iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is associated with significant maternal, fetal and infant morbidity. An effective management is needed to prevent adverse outcomes. Current options for treatment are limited; these include oral iron supplements, which are usually ineffective and poorly tolerated, and whole blood transfusion, which carries an inherent risk, should be avoided during pregnancy. Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose is a new treatment option and it is better tolerated with a good result. The study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose for correction of IDA in pregnant women in third trimester. It was a prospective study; 260 anaemic pregnant women received Injection ferric carboxymaltose, as a total dose of 500-1000 mg between 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. Safety was assessed by analyzing adverse drug reactions. Ferric carboxy maltose significantly increased Hb level (p<0.001) in all women in this study group. Increased Hb value was observed 3-4 weeks after infusion. None of the women felt worse. No serious adverse effects were found and minor side effects occurred in 34(13%) patients.Our study revealed that the Hb level increased significantly, was well tolerated and without significant side effects.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 54-57
The Role of Triple Combination Topical Agents in the Treatment of Facial Melasma
Authors: Sarkar Sumitendra Kumar , Sen Krishna Gopal , Mostofa Md Kamal , Das Asit Ranjan , Saha Shyamol Kumar , Islam Md Shafiqul
Published: October 2017

Melasma is an acquired, symmetrical hypermelanosis of the face and is particularly seen in women with skin types IV to VI living in areas with intense UVR. So it is a great problem in our country. Treatment of melasma remains a challenge. Topical therapy with a triple combination topical agents appears to be the most clinically effective initial therapy for patients with melasma. A clinical trial was conducted to find out the efficacy of the triple combination of 4% hydroquinone, 0.05% tretinoin and 0.01% fluocinolone acetonide cream in the treatment of facial melasma. Fifty clinically diagnosed cases of melasma attending the Skin and VD outpatient department of General Hospital, Faridpur were selected randomly. Majority (54%) were between 21 to 25 years of age and most of them (86%) were female. After 20 weeks of treatment with triple combination agents, the average MASI score decreased significantly (P<.001). Reduction of the severity of melasma by 20 weeks is 82% and by 8 weeks is 71%. Regarding the distribution of melasma, 50% were found centrofacial, 45% malar and 5% mandibular. As side effects of the treatment, 36% developed erythema, 16% developed burning sensation, 6% developed pruritus and 4% developed desquamation. This study demonstrates that every night application of triple combination topical agent has significant effect on melasma.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 68-70
Use of Propranolol for the management of haemangioma in children: Our experience
Authors: Hassan Md Kamrul , Paul Amal Chandra , Shibli Mizanur Rahaman , Hasan Mahmudul
Published: October 2017

Hemangioma is one of the most common benign tumors of infancy and occurs in approximately 5-10% of infants. The treatment options for problematic haemangioma are intralesional and systemic steroids, chemotherapeutic agents including vincristine and interferon-alpha, laser therapy or surgical intervention. In this case series effectiveness of propranolon was observed on haemangioma. This study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faridpur Medical College Hospital, Faridpur and Shahid Ziaur Rahman Medical College, Bogra. This study period was from January 2013 to December 2015. A total of 38 patients of haemangioma were admitted in Pediatric Surgery ward in FMCH and 26 patients in SZRMCH. These 54 patients were counseled about the study in detail. First dose of propranolol was given at a dose of 3 mg/kg/day in three divided doses. Pulse and blood pressure were recorded during initial 3 hours. Patients were then advised to continue with this treatment at home, with monthly follow-up. Total number of patients were 54. Of them 11 were male and 43 were female, giving a male: female ratio of 1:4. 60 % of the patients (32) were in <6 months. After 1 month, sign of regression was marked in all cases. Complete regression was seen in 6 patients (11.1 %) during second follow-up after 3 months of treatment. Only 4 patient required 9 months to reach the complete recovery. This case series contributes to the growing evidence that oral propranolol is efficacious and safe, with a careful dosing and monitoring. We hope a national guidelines will be developed in time for use of propranolol to treat the haemangioma.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 71-74
Relation of Placenta Praevia with Previous Lower Segment Caesarean Section (LUCS) in our Clinical Practice
Authors: Parvin Zebunnessa , Das Sanjoy , Naher Lutfun , Sarkar Sumitendra Kumar , Fatema Kaneez
Published: October 2017

Caesarean section (c-section) is one of the important risk factor to placenta praevia. There is significant association between placenta praevia and previous c-section pregnancy. It is a leading cause of APH and it affects approximately 0.5% of all labour. This cross sectional type of observational descriptive study based on non- probability technique was done in Faridpur Medical College Hospital from July 2015 - June 2016. A total of 150 pregnant women were studied. Pregnant women with H/O previous c-section once or more beyond 28 weeks gestation were included. Those who were primigravidae or pregnant women without previous c-section were excluded. The data were subjected to chi-square test with SPSS software version 20.0. In our study women with previous c-section were selected; out of which 16 patients (10.67%) were found to have placenta praevia and 134 patients (89.33%) were not found. The mean age of the study subject was 27.25 ± 3.43 years with maximum number of patients having age between 25 to 29 years. Among the study population other placental positions were anterofundal 90(60%) and posterofundal 44 (29.33%). The frequency of placenta praevia out of 16 women who had one c-section was 11 (10%), two c-section was 4 (11.4%) and three c-section was 1 (20%).There was significant association (p-value < 0.05) between number of c-section and placenta praevia. There was found significant relation between placenta praevia and lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) in our study.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 75-77
Time for Paradigm Shift in Islamic Finance Industry and Economy: Concepts of Profit, Loss, Enterprise Performance-Measure
Authors: Haque M Shamsul
Published: October 2017

The growth of Islamic Finance (IF) is hindered by non-conducive environment globally despite acceptability, efficiency and effectiveness of its products and services. The elements of non-conduciveness are bedded in the accounting methodology, tax- deductibility of interest expenses on bank loans, over-helming use of credit by households, businesses and governments, excessive use of leverage in banks, yielding disproportionately higher ROE (Return on Equity), resulting in global debt trap and extreme inequality in income and wealth distribution. Islamic finance if used properly by reforming the existing financial architecture and regularity environment can provide a sustainable basis for higher economic growth by encouraging private enterprises in Muslim and other countries by reducing deceit and corruption and increasing social capital through building trust. This will make the world a better place for humanity and avoid the impending threats from environmental and manmade disasters. This paper is based on secondary sources of information collected from publications of papers, research monograph, books and authors own works done at Manchester Business School (MBS), Manchester, UK, 1974-77.Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.11(1-2) 2016; 1-9
Myanmar as an Investment Destination: A Regional Evaluation
Authors: Md Abdullah Abu Yousuf
Published: October 2017

Once considered a pariah state because of its military regime, Myanmar has been taking giant strides towards becoming one of the most promising countries for investing in business ventures. At a time when the global economic scenario is reeling from Britains exit from the European Union, foreign investment in Myanmar continues to attain unprecedented growth. Lifting of international sanctions, a promising economic outlook with a GDP growth rate averaging close to 8% and a sizeable labor force have attracted overseas investment in diverse sectors like energy, manufacturing, power generation, and construction. The country still faces formidable challenges in developing basic infrastructure, ensuring fiscal stability and curbing sectarian conflict. For the nascent democratic government, formulating and implementing effective policies are uphill tasks in a system fraught with bureaucratic inefficiencies, systemic corruption, and interference from the still-powerful military. Myanmar has ample opportunities to overcome internal roadblocks by utilizing its huge market with a predominantly young population, its expansive pool of low-cost labor and the heightened influx of international commercial ventures after the political transition of the mid-2010s. Investments in Myanmars promising telecommunications sector, in ready-made garment manufacturing and in the tourism industry are projected to give substantial dividends over the next few decades.Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.11(1-2) 2016; 11-39
Reading Attitudes of Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Students with Bengali Medium Background at the Bangladeshi Private Universities in Dhaka City
Authors: Hossain Md Shakhawat
Published: October 2017

The study basically aims at uncovering the reading attitudes of the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) students of the Bangladeshi English medium private universities. It has been observed that the private university students, coming from Bengali-medium colleges, read very little in English and consequently they hardly grow up as better readers. The study has used both quantitative and qualitative methods. For collecting quantitative data, a structured questionnaire was administered among the sampling respondents, 120 BBA students from six private universities located in Dhaka city, selected using simple random sampling procedure. On the contrary, for gathering qualitative data, the researcher depended on a number of classroom observations, focus group discussions (FGDs) that took place among 20 different BBA students divided into two groups, and teacher interviews (10 teachers). It is revealed from the study that the students have mixed attitudes towards reading. In some cases, they have been found enthusiastic readers who read due to their passion for reading or for having pleasure out of reading. However, in many cases, they have affirmed that they become anxious and bored of extensive reading. Besides, they mainly read for passing the examinations or obtaining good grades. Finally, it has been unearthed that both teachers and reading materials play vital roles in developing learners reading attitudes.Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.11(1-2) 2016; 91-110
Influence of Corporate Attributes on Magnitude of Disclosure by Private Commercial Banks in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Tahidur , Uddin Mohammad Main
Published: October 2017

The study reports the results of an empirical investigation of the magnitude of disclosure by listed Private Commercial Banks (PCBs) in Bangladesh and the attributes influencing it. For the purpose of the study, samples were taken following the purposive sampling approach covering about 21 percent of the population. A researcher developed unweighted disclosure checklist containing 247 information items divided into ten groups, were utilized. Applying the Dichotomous scoring procedure, the study found an average disclosure of 75.76 percent with a constant growth during the study period. Significant differences were found while comparing the disclosure level among the years and among the sample banks under study. Out of the eight variables, the regression model used in the study found Log total assets, Return on Equity (ROE), and EPS as three influential contributors to disclosure; while other five variables were found to have insignificant influence on disclosure of PCBs in Bangladesh.Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.11(1-2) 2016; 111-118
RETRACTED: Curcumin Exerts Effects on the Pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s Disease by Regulating PI(3,5)P2 and Transient Receptor Potential Mucolipin-1 Expression
Authors: Zhang Lu , Fang Yu , Cheng Xuan , Lian Ya-Jun , Xu Hong-liang , Zeng Zhao-Shu , Zhu Hong-can
Published: October 2017

Background

To validate our speculation that curcumin may ameliorate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis by regulating PI(3,5)P2 and transient receptor potential mucolipin-1 (TRPML1) expression levels.

Methods

We developed an animal model presenting AD by APP/PS1 transgenes. The mouse clonal hippocampal neuronal cell line HT-22 was treated with amyloid-β1-42 (Aβ1-42). Curcumin was administrated both in vivo and in vitro. MTS assay was used to detect cell viability, and the lysosomal [Ca2+] ion concentration was detected. The number of autophagosomes was detected by the transmission electron microscopic examination. Illumina RNA-seq was used to analyze the different expression patterns between Aβ1-42-treated cells without and with curcumin treatment. The protein level was analyzed by the Western blotting analysis. PI(3,5)P2 or TRPML1 was knocked down in HT-22 cells or in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Morris water maze and recognition task were performed to trace the cognitive ability.

Results

Curcumin increased cell viability, decreased the number of autophagosomes, and increased lysosomal Ca2+ levels in Aβ1-42-treated HT-22 cells. Sequencing analysis identified TRPLML1 as the most significantly upregulated gene after curcumin treatment. Western blotting results also showed that TRPML1 was upregulated and mTOR/S6K signaling pathway was activated and markers of the autophagy–lysosomal system were downregulated after curcumin use in Aβ1-42-treated HT-22 cells. Knockdown of PI (3,5)P2 or TRPML1 increased the protein levels of markers of the autophagy–lysosomal system after curcumin use in Aβ1-42-treated HT-22 cells, inhibited mTOR/S6K signaling pathway, increased the protein levels of markers of the autophagy–lysosomal system after curcumin use in APP/PS1 mice. Besides, knockdown of PI(3,5)P2 or TRPML1 reversed the protective role of curcumin on memory and recognition impairments in mice with APP/PS1 transgenes.

Conclusion

To some extent, it suggested that the effects of curcumin on AD pathogenesis were, at least partially, associated with PI(3,5)P2 and TRPML1 expression levels.
Supporting the Development and Adoption of Automatic Lameness Detection Systems in Dairy Cattle: Effect of System Cost and Performance on Potential Market Shares
Authors: Van De Gucht Tim , Van Weyenberg Stephanie , Van Nuffel Annelies , Lauwers Ludwig , Vangeyte Jürgen , Saeys Wouter
Published: October 2017

Most automatic lameness detection system prototypes have not yet been commercialized, and are hence not yet adopted in practice. Therefore, the objective of this study was to simulate the effect of detection performance (percentage missed lame cows and percentage false alarms) and system cost on the potential market share of three automatic lameness detection systems relative to visual detection: a system attached to the cow, a walkover system, and a camera system. Simulations were done using a utility model derived from survey responses obtained from dairy farmers in Flanders, Belgium. Overall, systems attached to the cow had the largest market potential, but were still not competitive with visual detection. Increasing the detection performance or lowering the system cost led to higher market shares for automatic systems at the expense of visual detection. The willingness to pay for extra performance was €2.57 per % less missed lame cows, €1.65 per % less false alerts, and €12.7 for lame leg indication, respectively. The presented results could be exploited by system designers to determine the effect of adjustments to the technology on a system’s potential adoption rate.
Modeling Coloration of a Radiochromic Film with Molecular Dynamics-Coupled Finite Element Method
Authors: Beni Mehrdad Shahmohammadi , Krstic D. , Nikezic D. , Yu K.N.
Published: October 2017

Radiochromic films change color upon exposures to radiation doses as a result of solid-state polymerization (SSP). Commercially available radiochromic films are primarily designed for, and have become widely used in, clinical X-ray dosimetry. However, many intriguing properties of radiochromic films are not yet fully understood. The present work aimed at developing a theoretical model at both atomic and macroscopic scales to provide a platform for future works to understand these intriguing properties. Despite the fact that radiochromic films were primarily designed for clinical X-ray dosimetry, dose-response curves for the Gafchromic EBT3 film obtained for ultraviolet (UV) radiation were employed to develop our model in order to avoid complications of ionization, non-uniform energy deposition, as well as dispersed doses caused by secondary electrons set in motion by the indirectly ionizing X-ray photons, which might introduce added uncertainties to the model and overshadow the basic SSP processes. The active layer in the EBT3 film consisted of diacetylene (DA) pentacosa-10,12-diynoate monomers, which were modelled using molecular dynamics (MD). The degrees of SSP in the atomic scale upon different UV exposures were obtained to determine the absorption coefficients of the active layer, which were then input into the finite element method (FEM). The classical steady-state Helmholtz equation was engaged to model the reflection from the active layer using the FEM technique. The multifrontal massively parallel sparse direct solver (MUMPS) was employed to solve the present numerical problem. Very good agreement between experimentally and theoretically obtained coloration in terms of net reflective optical density was achieved for different UV exposures. In particular, for UV exposures larger than ~40 J/cm2, the reflected light intensity decreased at a lower rate when compared to other UV exposure values, which was explained by the densely cross-linked structure under near-complete polymerization, and thus the lower efficiency for further bond formation between DA monomer strands.
Evaluation of Surface Fluxes in the WRF Model: Case Study for Farmland in Rolling Terrain
Authors: Sun Xia , Holmes Heather , Osibanjo Olabosipo , Sun Yun , Ivey Cesunica
Published: October 2017

The partitioning of available energy into surface sensible and latent heat fluxes impacts the accuracy of simulated near surface temperature and humidity in numerical weather prediction models. This case study evaluates the performance of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model on the simulation of surface heat fluxes using field observations collected from a surface flux tower in Oregon, USA. Further, WRF-modeled heat flux sensitivities to North American Mesoscale (NAM) and North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR) large-scale input forcing datasets; U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land use datasets; Pleim-Xiu (PX) and Noah land surface models (LSM); Yonsei University (YSU) and Mellor-Yamada-Janjic (MYJ) planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes using the Noah LSM; and Asymmetric Convective Model version 2 (ACM2) PBL scheme using PX LSM are investigated. The errors for simulating 2-m temperature, 2-m humidity, and 10-m wind speed were reduced on average when using NAM compared with NARR. Simulated friction velocity had a positive bias on average, with the YSU PBL scheme producing the largest overestimation in the innermost domain (0.5 km horizontal grid resolution). The simulated surface sensible heat flux had a similar temporal behavior as the observations but with a larger magnitude. The PX LSM produced lower and more reliable sensible heat fluxes compared with the Noah LSM. However, Noah latent heat fluxes were improved with a lower RMSE compared to PX, when NARR forcing data was used. Overall, these results suggest that there is not one WRF configuration that performs best for all the simulated variables (surface heat fluxes and meteorological variables) and situations (day and night).
Discrepancies in Atomic Data and Suggestions for Their Resolutions
Authors: Aggarwal Kanti
Published: October 2017

The analysis and modelling of a range of plasmas (for example, astrophysical, laser- produced and fusion) require atomic data for a number of parameters, such as energy levels, radiative rates and electron impact excitation rates, or equivalently, the effective collision strengths. Such data are desired for a wide range of elements and their many ions, although all elements are not useful for all types of plasmas. Since measurements of atomic data are mostly confined to only a few energy levels of some ions, calculations for all parameters are highly important. However, often, there are large discrepancies among different calculations for almost all parameters, which makes it difficult to apply the data with confidence. Many such discrepancies (and the possible remedies) were discussed earlier (Fusion Sci. Technol. 2013, 63, 363). Since then, many more anomalies for almost all of these atomic parameters have been noticed. Therefore, this paper is a revisit of various atomic parameters to highlight the large discrepancies, their possible sources and some suggestions to avoid these, so that comparatively more accurate and reliable atomic data may be available in the future.
Temporal Statistical Analysis of Degree Distributions in an Undirected Landline Phone Call Network Graph Series
Authors: Gjermëni Orgeta
Published: October 2017

This article aims to provide new results about the intraday degree sequence distribution considering phone call network graph evolution in time. More specifically, it tackles the following problem. Given a large amount of landline phone call data records, what is the best way to summarize the distinct number of calling partners per client per day? In order to answer this question, a series of undirected phone call network graphs is constructed based on data from a local telecommunication source in Albania. All network graphs of the series are simplified. Further, a longitudinal temporal study is made on this network graphs series related to the degree distributions. Power law and log-normal distribution fittings on the degree sequence are compared on each of the network graphs of the series. The maximum likelihood method is used to estimate the parameters of the distributions, and a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test associated with a p-value is used to define the plausible models. A direct distribution comparison is made through a Vuong test in the case that both distributions are plausible. Another goal was to describe the parameters’ distributions’ shape. A Shapiro-Wilk test is used to test the normality of the data, and measures of shape are used to define the distributions’ shape. Study findings suggested that log-normal distribution models better the intraday degree sequence data of the network graphs. It is not possible to say that the distributions of log-normal parameters are normal.
Analysis of Entropy Generation in Flow of Methanol-Based Nanofluid in a Sinusoidal Wavy Channel
Authors: Qasim Muhammad , Hayat Khan Zafar , Khan Ilyas , Al-Mdallal Qasem
Published: October 2017

The entropy generation due to heat transfer and fluid friction in mixed convective peristaltic flow of methanol-Al2O3 nano fluid is examined. Maxwell’s thermal conductivity model is used in analysis. Velocity and temperature profiles are utilized in the computation of the entropy generation number. The effects of involved physical parameters on velocity, temperature, entropy generation number, and Bejan number are discussed and explained graphically.
Bivariate Partial Information Decomposition: The Optimization Perspective
Authors: Makkeh Abdullah , Theis Dirk , Vicente Raul
Published: October 2017

Bertschinger, Rauh, Olbrich, Jost, and Ay (Entropy, 2014) have proposed a definition of a decomposition of the mutual information M I ( X : Y , Z ) into shared, synergistic, and unique information by way of solving a convex optimization problem. In this paper, we discuss the solution of their Convex Program from theoretical and practical points of view.
Cross Entropy Method Based Hybridization of Dynamic Group Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Tang Rui , Fong Simon , Dey Nilanjan , Wong Raymond , Mohammed Sabah
Published: October 2017

Recently, a new algorithm named dynamic group optimization (DGO) has been proposed, which lends itself strongly to exploration and exploitation. Although DGO has demonstrated its efficacy in comparison to other classical optimization algorithms, DGO has two computational drawbacks. The first one is related to the two mutation operators of DGO, where they may decrease the diversity of the population, limiting the search ability. The second one is the homogeneity of the updated population information which is selected only from the companions in the same group. It may result in premature convergence and deteriorate the mutation operators. In order to deal with these two problems in this paper, a new hybridized algorithm is proposed, which combines the dynamic group optimization algorithm with the cross entropy method. The cross entropy method takes advantage of sampling the problem space by generating candidate solutions using the distribution, then it updates the distribution based on the better candidate solution discovered. The cross entropy operator does not only enlarge the promising search area, but it also guarantees that the new solution is taken from all the surrounding useful information into consideration. The proposed algorithm is tested on 23 up-to-date benchmark functions; the experimental results verify that the proposed algorithm over the other contemporary population-based swarming algorithms is more effective and efficient.
Building Energy Consumption Prediction: An Extreme Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Li Chengdong , Ding Zixiang , Zhao Dongbin , Yi Jianqiang , Zhang Guiqing
Published: October 2017

Building energy consumption prediction plays an important role in improving the energy utilization rate through helping building managers to make better decisions. However, as a result of randomness and noisy disturbance, it is not an easy task to realize accurate prediction of the building energy consumption. In order to obtain better building energy consumption prediction accuracy, an extreme deep learning approach is presented in this paper. The proposed approach combines stacked autoencoders (SAEs) with the extreme learning machine (ELM) to take advantage of their respective characteristics. In this proposed approach, the SAE is used to extract the building energy consumption features, while the ELM is utilized as a predictor to obtain accurate prediction results. To determine the input variables of the extreme deep learning model, the partial autocorrelation analysis method is adopted. Additionally, in order to examine the performances of the proposed approach, it is compared with some popular machine learning methods, such as the backward propagation neural network (BPNN), support vector regression (SVR), the generalized radial basis function neural network (GRBFNN) and multiple linear regression (MLR). Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method has the best prediction performance in different cases of the building energy consumption.
Effect of Permeability Anisotropy on the Production of Multi-Scale Shale Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Huang Ting , Tao Zhengwu , Li Erpeng , Lyu Qiqi , Guo Xiao
Published: October 2017

Shales or mudstones are fine grained and layered reservoirs, which leads to strong shale permeability anisotropy. Shale has a wide pore-size distribution, and pores with different diameters contribute differently to the apparent permeability of shales. Therefore, understanding the anisotropy of multiscale shale gas reservoirs is an important aspect to model and evaluate gas production from shales. In this paper, a novel model of permeability anisotropy for shale gas reservoirs is presented to calculate the permeability in an arbitrary direction in three dimensional space. A numerical model which is valid for the entire Knudsen’s range (continuum flow, slip flow, transition flow and free molecular flow) in shale gas reservoirs was developed, and the effect of gas-water flow and the simulation of hydraulic fracturing cracks were taken into consideration as well. The simulation result of the developed model was validated with field data. Effects of critical factors such as permeability anisotropy, relative permeability curves with different nanopore radii and initial water saturation in formation on the gas production rate of multi-stage fractured horizontal well were discussed. Besides, flow regimes of gas flow in shales were classified by Knudsen number, and the effect of various flow regimes on both apparent permeability of shales and then the gas production has been analyzed thoroughly.
Relationship between Ambient Temperature and Mental Health in the USA
Authors: Phelan Patrick , Phelan Bernadette
Published: October 2017

Climatic variables such as temperature have been shown to correlate with demand for mental health services in other countries. An attempt by the present study to replicate this correlation using existing USA treatment data on mental health was not substantiated. Using annual state-level data from 2007 through 2015, the rate of mental health service utilization per 1000 population was correlated with average temperature and precipitation, while adjusting for Gross Domestic Product (GDP), unemployment, and urbanization. No statistically significant correlation was found.