bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EL ROL DE UNASUR ANTE LOS CONFLICTOS INTRAESTATALES EN LA REGIÓN
Authors: AMIGO TOSSI ALEJANDRO
Published: December 2017

El tratado constitutivo de UNASUR no contempla la prevención de conflictos, sin embargo, uno de sus objetivos es configurar un área de paz en Sudamérica y a partir de ese propósito, ha intervenido en una serie de conflictos que han amenazado la estabilidad de la región. Los casos han comprendido desde la estabilización de una crisis inter-estatal hasta un intento fallido de detener un juicio político de un presidente. Este artículo describe las circunstancias que configuraron los conflictos internos de Bolivia el 2008, Ecuador el 2010 y Paraguay el 2012; y el posterior rol de UNASUR en esas situaciones intraestatales.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE DIASPORA AND THE HIT-AND-MISS EXPERIMENTATION WITH ENGLISH CURRICULUM IN BANGLADESH
Authors: Haque Mr. Md. Azizul
Published: December 2017

Despite the common diasporic origin English in Bangladesh is neither a native nor a second language, but a foreign language, in countries like India and Pakistan, English is used as the second language. The chronological history ofÂ English in Bangladesh has both political as well as social elements, which influence the learning of English at every level ofÂ education. In the mid-90s there was a growing demand from the educationists in the country to change the English curriculum as per â€˜needs analysisâ€™, and the curriculum is restructured aligning with the communication needs and the syllabus was largely transformed into a communicative one. Yet research explores that the needs are not served for the learners tend to by-pass the cognitive part of the language learningâ€”thus failing to communicate properly. Now, in the second decade of the new millennium English curriculum along with other subjects has been made â€˜creativeâ€™ at pre-tertiary level, but debates are still on to evaluate whether the system complies with the current practices prevailing within the institutional premises. The total picture thus presents a very confusing answer to the questions why all these efforts are being futile and why the English language teaching fails to touch the three main domains of learningâ€”the cognitive, the affective and the psychomotor. The current study wants to explore whether such experiments with the curriculum and the dilemma of receiving or rejecting the idea of acculturation with largely an anti-colonial mindset hinder the desired performance of the language.
TEACHING STUDENTS TO DEVELOP PARAGRAPHS BY POETRY WRITING
Authors: Mahmud Murni
Published: December 2017

The use of literary work such as poetry, prose, or drama in English language teaching is recognized as powerful media to teach English language skills. This is commonly known as creative writing, which has recently become important subject in English language teaching. This study had examined the use of English poetry writing in English language teaching, particularly in teaching English writing skills. There are two main points of discussion in this paper, namely the analysis of the studentsâ€™ ability to write poetry in English and the effectiveness of that poetry writing in teaching English writing skills. The study was conducted at the third semester students majoring in English Education at the State University of Makassar, Indonesia. To find data about studentsâ€™ ability in poetry writing, a test was given and the results were analyzed descriptively. To find data about the effectiveness of poetry writing in teaching English writing skills, a quasi-experimental design with a t-test was employed. Findings reveal the studentsâ€™ good ability in writing poetry in English. Aspects of poetry such as imagery, rhyme, rhythm, and sound devices can be seen in the poetry written by students. Poetry writing also has an effective function in teaching English, particularly in developing studentsâ€™ writing skills. Poetry made by the students can invite more ideas to write. Students taught to write poetry in English and asked to develop writing based on that written poetry demonstrate better achievement than those who were not taught by poetry writing.Â
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF POEW IN TEACHING WRITING
Authors: Sianna Sianna , Syawal Syawal
Published: December 2017

This research was aimed to investigate how significant the implementation of POEW model improved the studentsâ€™ writing ability. It was conducted using a quasi-experimental method with two pretest-posttest group design. It was implemented to the third semester students of English department of Universitas Muhammadiyah Parepare in academic year 2016/2017. At first, the researcher implemented POEW model to treat the students in teaching writing. After that, they were tested to find out their ability after being treated through POEW model. Data were analyzed quantitatively using 21.0 version of SPSS program.The result indicated that the students who were treated through POEW model have significant improvement in their writing ability than the students who were not. It is found that the significant value (0.000) was lower than the probability value (0.05). This means that there was a significant difference between the studentsâ€™ writing ability before and after being taught through POEW model where the studentsâ€™ writing ability improved significantly in posttest (after being taught through POEW model). The mean score of posttest of the students in experimental class (72.40) was higher than the students in control class (62.46) which indicated that the students ability in the experimental class was better than the students in control class. The students ability in experimental class was improved from 61.24 to 72.40 while in control class only from 61.36 to 62.46. Besides that, the standar deviation in experimental class (7.832) was also lower than in control class (8.364) which indicated that the students ability in experimental class was slightly similar to control classÂ
IMPACTO DE LAS LEYES DE COMUNICACIÓN DE ECUADOR Y VENEZUELA EN EL EJERCICIO DE LA LIBERTAD DE EXPRESIÓN, A PARTIR DE 6 CASOS EMBLEMÁTICOS
Authors: Torrealba-Mesa Luisa
Published: December 2017

La investigación tuvo como objetivo diagnosticar cuál ha sido el impacto de la Ley Orgánica de Comunicación (Ecuador) y la Ley de Responsabilidad Social en Radio, Televisión y Medios Electrónicos (Venezuela) en el ejercicio de la libertad de expresión, de acuerdo a los estándares internacionales de derechos humanos. Se partió de la hipótesis de que ambas leyes han limitado el ejercicio del derecho de la libertad de expresión. Se empleó el tipo de investigación documental, con un enfoque cuantitativo y la técnica del análisis de contenido. Se revisaron seis casos emblemáticos (tres de Ecuador y tres de Venezuela), a partir del análisis de las leyes y las resoluciones o decisiones de los órganos reguladores encargados de aplicarlas; los reportes de organizaciones no gubernamentales que monitorean la libertad de expresión, en ambos países, y de las piezas comunicacionales correspondientes a los casos estudiados. El análisis partió de las siguientes variables: garantías y restricciones para el derecho establecidos en las leyes, sujetos de aplicación, órganos responsables, interés público de los asuntos abordados en las piezas comunicacionales estudiadas, limitaciones legítimas a la libertad de expresión consagradas en la Convención Americana de Derechos Humanos, fundamentos legales y prohibiciones contenidas en las resoluciones oficiales de los casos, tipos de violaciones a la libre expresión y consecuencias.
Proposed Network Intrusion Detection System Based on Fuzzy c Mean Algorithm in Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: Mehibs Shawq Malik , Hashim Soukaena Hassan
Published: December 2017

Nowadays cloud computing had become is an integral part of IT industry, cloud computing provides Working environment allow a user of environmental to share data and resources over the internet. Where cloud computing its virtual grouping of resources offered over the internet, this lead to different matters related to the security and privacy in cloud computing. And therefore, create intrusion detection very important to detect outsider and insider intruders of cloud computing with high detection rate and low false positive alarm in the cloud environment. This work proposed network intrusion detection module using fuzzy c mean algorithm. The kdd99 dataset used for experiments .the proposed system characterized by a high detection rate with low false positive alarm.
Islamic Religious Learning In Providing Understanding Of Radical Hazards Based On Affection Approach (Study on Islamic religious Subjects at Junior High School)
Authors: Kusen Kusen
Published: December 2017

The word Islam and radical, is a familiar word to hear, even in many of the recent events carried out by a group of people who in the name of Islam. Understanding the radical concept has penetrated into various elements, included in education. In responsing to this, the goverment have to take an action through reorganizing the existing materials in Islamic lesson which is taught in educational institutions.

Rearrangement of islamic lesson is important. Because the existing material had proved that its inadequate to bear students who are tolerant, moderate, and inclusive. The proof can be seen from the number of terrorist and Islamic radicalism which is involving educated young people, both students, college students, or college graduates. Moreover, lately, there has been a tendency of systematic efforts by certain denominations to teach extreme ideological loyalist of religious doctrine among learners.

This paper tries to provide an understanding which related to radical concepts on the explanation of Islamic lesson materials in junior high school. So that, learners can understand more about the concept of islam which is peaceful not violence. One of the strategy in providing a radical understanding among learners is to develop Islamic lesson materials through compassion-based learning.
The Development of Islamic Study Through The Study of Figures: Significance and Methodology
Authors: Naim Ngainun
Published: December 2017

This article describes the role of figure studies in Islamic studies. The study of real figures has been around for a long time and developed in the Islamic Religious Higher Education (PTKI). However, it takes various methodological and strategic steps to make its existence enrich the treasures of Islamic studies. Within this framework, this paper provides an affirmative perspective on the significance, methodology, and contributions of the study of the characters in Islamic studies. The study used in this paper is a review of literature that is structured in such a way that the basis of argumentation developed from the thinking of the experts of Islamic studies and other experts who have attention to the study of figures. This article is expected to provide a reinforcing perspective on the importance of theoretical reinforcement and methodological study of figures.
Speaking and Writing Assessment Applied by English Lecturers of State College for Islamic Studies (STAIN) at Curup-Bengkulu
Authors: Hidayah Jumatul
Published: December 2017

An appropriate type of assessment and rubric gave best description about students’ progress and achievement as well. Therefore, the aims of this research were to find out:1) speaking and writing assessment implemented by English lecturers related with the types of assessment 2) the way lecturers constructed speaking rubric in assessing students’ speaking. 3)the way the lecturers constructed writing rubric in assessing students’ writing and 4)the use of information from speaking and writing assessment for lecturers as a feedback to students. This research was conducted under descriptive design. It involved 5 lecturers. The data were taken from observation, document and interview. The results of this research are: 1) there were 9 types of speaking assessment used; question and answer, instruction and direction, paraphrasing, role play, conversation, discussion, picture-cued storytelling and retelling story. There were 5 types of assessment used by writing lecturer those are; paraphrasing, paragraph construction, strategic option, editing task and essay writing. 2) All lecturers who taught speaking I, II, and III constructed and used analytic rubric for speaking assessment. 3) Most of them used analytic scoring rubric in assessing writing, 4) the feedback is mostly used by the lecturers for assigning grades and motivating

students to study
Ushul Al-Fiqh Dan Kontribusinya (Konsep Ta’wil dan Relevansinya Dengan Pembaharuan Hukum Islam)
Authors: Dedi Syarial
Published: December 2017

The ta’wil is a method of istinbath al-ahkam from texts (nash). In principle ushuliyyin agreed to say the use of ta’wil, if it’s meets the existing requirements, this ta’wilis called by the trem ta’wil maqbul, that is ta’wil wich not far from the meaning of zhahir, so that with simpleintructionscan be understood. But if the ta’wil is based only foundation to impulses and unfulfilled conditions,the trasnforming of meaning of lafazh wich away from, can’t be known by a dalil of simple proposition. So this ta’wil like this is rejeced or termed is ta’wil ghair al-maqbul. But in determining of dalil of ta’wil (argumantation support), the are differencesof opinion among ushuliyyin, thus are raising the trem ta’wil baid. overall, method of ta’wil is still considered relevant to the reform of Islamic law.
Did States Use Implementation Discretion to Reduce the Stringency of NCLB? Evidence From a Database of State Regulations
Authors: Wong Vivian C. , Wing Coady , Martin David , Krishnamachari Anandita
Published: December 2017

When No Child Left Behind (NCLB) became law in 2002, it was viewed as an effort to create uniform standards for students and schools across the country. More than a decade later, we know surprisingly little about how states actually implemented NCLB and the extent to which state implementation decisions managed to undo the centralizing objectives of the law. This paper introduces a state-level measure of NCLB stringency that helps shed light on these issues. The measure is available for 49 states and the District of Columbia and covers most years under NCLB (2003–2011). Importantly, the measure does not depend on population characteristics of the state. It varies only because of state-level decisions about rule exemptions, standards, and proficiency trajectories. Overall, we find that while NCLB was successful in encouraging states to adopt higher and more consistent performance standards for schools, it also provided much more flexibility and customization in state-level accountability policies than is generally realized.
2016 AERA Presidential Address: Public Scholarship: Education Research for a Diverse Democracy
Authors: Oakes Jeannie
Published: December 2017

AERA’s centennial provides an opportunity to reinvigorate the aspirations that gave rise to our research community in the United States: hope and determination that research can strengthen public education, society’s most democratic institution. The first AERAers sought to produce scientific knowledge to improve large, increasingly diverse urban school systems—a pursuit that continues today. Yet over the century, we’ve learned that achieving equity in our diverse democracy is as much about public perceptions and politics as it is about science. Research-based knowledge and practices to make education equitable are often overpowered by cultural norms and politics. As present-day inequalities bear uncanny resemblances to those of 1916, we must heed a vital (though often ignored) precept of John Dewey’s—one that calls on researchers to act as public scholars. Engaging with publics to raise awareness of common problems is a central charge for researchers, one that holds great promise for fostering democratic, public problem solving.
Time Series Modeling on Monthly Data of Tourist Arrivals in Nepal: An Alternative Approach
Authors: Subedi Amrit
Published: December 2017

Background: There are various approaches of modeling on time series data. Most of the studies conducted regarding time series data are based on annual trend whereas very few concerned with data having monthly fluctuation. The data of tourist arrivals is an example of time series data with monthly fluctuation which reveals that there is higher number of tourist arrivals in some months/seasons whereas others have less number. Starting from January, it makes a complete cycle in every 12 months with 3 bends indicating that it can be captured by biquadratic function.Objective: To provide an alternative approach of modeling i.e. combination of Autoregressive model with polynomial (biquadratic) function on time series data with monthly/seasonal fluctuation and compare its adequacy with widely used cyclic autoregressive model i.e. AR (12).Materials and Methods: This study is based on monthly data of tourist arrivals in Nepal. Firstly, usual time series model AR (12) has been adopted and an alternative approach of modeling has been attempted combining AR and biquadratic function. The first part of the model i.e. AR represents annual trend whereas biquadratic part does for monthly fluctuation.Results: The fitted cyclic autoregressive model on monthly data of tourist arrivals is Est. Ym = 3614.33 + 0.9509Ym-12, (R2=0.80); Est. Ym indicates predicted tourist arrivals for mth month and Ym-12 indicates observed tourist arrivals in (m-12)th month and the combined model of AR and biquadratic function is Est. Yt(m) = -46464.6 + 1.000Yt-1 + 52911.56m - 17177m2 + 2043.95m3 - 79.43m4, (R2=0.78); Est. Yt(m) indicates predicted tourist arrivals for mth month of tth year and Yt-1 indicates average tourist arrivals in (t-1)th year. The AR model combined with polynomial function reveals normal and homoscedastic residuals more accurately compared to first one.Conclusion: The use of polynomial function combined with autoregressive model can be useful for time series data having seasonal fluctuation. It can be an alternative approach for picking up a good model for such type of data. Nepalese Journal of Statistics, 2017,  Vol. 1, 41-54
Variance Estimator Using Tri-mean and Inter Quartile Range of Auxiliary Variable
Authors: Yadav S.K. , Misra Sheela , Mishra S.S. , Khanal Shankar Prasad
Published: December 2017

Background: Whenever the population is large and it is very time taking and costly to take observation on each unit of the population then sampling is the only way to get the appropriate estimate of the population parameter under consideration. Many authors have given many estimators for estimating population variance with greater efficiency.Objective: The objective of the study is to search for more efficient estimator than the competing estimators of population variance of study variable.Materials and Methods: The estimator utilizing information on tri-mean and inter quartile range of auxiliary variable has been is developed. The expressions for the bias and mean squared error (MSE) of the proposed estimator have been derived up to the first order of approximation. A theoretical comparison of the proposed estimator has been made with the competing estimators of population variance.Results: The theoretical findings have been justified with the help of numerical example from some natural populations. It has been found that the proposed estimator is best among the competing estimators of population variance as it has least mean squared error among them.Conclusion: Since the proposed estimator is best among the competing estimator of the population variance, therefore it must be used for the improved estimation of population variance.Nepalese Journal of Statistics, 2017, Vol. 1, 83-91
Evidence Based Bullying Prevention in Turkey: Implementation of the ViSC Social Competence Program
Authors: Doğan Aysun , Keser Eda , Şen Zeynep , Yanagida Takuya , Gradinger Petra , Strohmeier Dagmar
Published: December 2017

The ViSC program is the first evidence based anti-bullying program implemented in Turkey. A quasi-experimental longitudinal control group design comprising six schools and 26 classes was realized to examine the program effectiveness regarding different forms of perpetration and victimization. The effectiveness of two dosages of interventions – school and class level vs. school level – was investigated. In total, 642 grade 5 students (227 in school and class level, 201 in school level, 214 in control group, 49% girls, M age = 10.06) participated. Multilevel growth models revealed baseline effects indicating that the two intervention groups had lower levels of perpetration and victimization at pre-test than the controls. Perpetration and victimization increased in the two intervention groups compared to control group between pre- and post-test, but also decreased between post-test and follow-up indicating a sensitizing effect of the program. Results are important for both intervention research and social policy in Turkey.
Bullying Perpetration and Victimization in Early Adolescence: Physiological Response to Social Exclusion
Authors: Mazzone Angela , Camodeca Marina , Cardone Daniela , Merla Arcangelo
Published: December 2017

The present study investigated the associations between bullying perpetration and victimization and physiological reactivity to social exclusion. The participants were 28 early adolescents (17 boys and 11 girls; Mage = 11.55; SD = 1.34). Bullying perpetration and victimization were assessed by peer nominations. To elicit social exclusion, participants were first included and then excluded in a laboratory paradigm (Cyberball). Physiological reactivity (i.e., nose tip temperature) was detected through thermal infrared imaging during the computer simulation. Nose temperature variations during inclusion and exclusion were compared between each other. Results showed increasing skin temperature during exclusion, compared to inclusion, for the whole sample, indicating that being excluded affected physiological reactivity. However, victimization was associated with higher skin temperature during exclusion, compared to bullying. The present findings suggest the importance of combining behavioral and contact-free physiological measures when studying bullying perpetration and victimization by peers.
Cross-National Data on Victims of Bullying: How does PISA Measure up with Other Surveys? An Update and Extension of the Study by Smith, Robinson, and Marchi (2016)
Authors: Smith Peter K. , López-Castro Leticia
Published: December 2017

Until recently, there were four sources of large-scale self-report survey data on victim rates, cross-nationally: EU Kids Online, Global School Health Survey, Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, and Health Behaviour of School-aged Children. Smith, Robinson, and Marchi (2016) examined the internal validity and external validity of these data sets, comparing country victimization rates. While internal validity correlations were high, external validity correlations ranged from moderate to zero, raising concerns about using these cross-national data sets to make judgements about which countries are higher or lower in victim rates. Another cross-national source of victim rates was released by PISA in 2016, and here we compare this PISA data with the earlier data sets, and the most recent data sets from HBSC and TIMSS. Correlations obtained were generally more acceptable than in the previous comparisons, and especially satisfactory for comparing PISA with TIMSS. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Dementia: A Cohort Study from the Swedish Dementia Registry
Authors: Subic Ana , Cermakova Pavla , Religa Dorota , Han Shuang , von Euler Mia , Kåreholt Ingemar , Johnell Kristina , Fastbom Johan , Bognandi Liselia , Winblad Bengt , Kramberger Milica G. , Eriksdotter Maria , Garcia-Ptacek Sara
Published: December 2017

Background:

Patients with dementia might have higher risk for hemorrhagic complications with anticoagulant therapy prescribed for atrial fibrillation (AF).

Objective:

This study assesses the risks and benefits of warfarin, antiplatelets, and no treatment in patients with dementia and AF.

Methods:

Of 49,792 patients registered in the Swedish Dementia Registry 2007–2014, 8,096 (16%) had a previous diagnosis of AF. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate the risk for ischemic stroke (IS), nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage, any-cause hemorrhage, and death.

Results:

Out of the 8,096 dementia patients with AF, 2,143 (26%) received warfarin treatment, 2,975 (37%) antiplatelet treatment, and 2,978 (37%) had no antithrombotic treatment at the time of dementia diagnosis. Patients on warfarin had fewer IS than those without treatment (5.2% versus 8.7%; p < 0.001) with no differences compared to antiplatelets. In adjusted analyses, warfarin was associated with a lower risk for IS (HR 0.76, CI 0.59–0.98), while antiplatelets were associated with increased risk (HR 1.25, CI 1.01–1.54) compared to no treatment. For any-cause hemorrhage, there was a higher risk with warfarin (HR 1.28, CI 1.03–1.59) compared to antiplatelets. Warfarin and antiplatelets were associated with a lower risk for death compared to no treatment.

Conclusions:

Warfarin treatment in Swedish patients with dementia is associated with lower risk of IS and mortality, and a small increase in any-cause hemorrhage. This study supports the use of warfarin in appropriate cases in patients with dementia. The low percentage of patients on warfarin treatment indicates that further gains in stroke prevention are possible.
Influence of a cold crucible geometry parameters on electrical efficiency
Authors: Golak Sławomir , Przylucki Roman , Smolka Jacek , Bulinski Piotr , Cieplinski Piotr
Published: December 2017

Cold crucible furnaces are widely used in multiple special applications. Unfortunately, the efficiency of this type of furnace is significantly lower than that of other induction units. The paper presents methodology and the analysis results of influence of the cold crucible components geometry on efficiency of transfer energy from an inductor to a charge. Distribution and the total value of the Joule heat generated in the charge inside an induction furnace with a cold crucible were determined for various modifications of construction of the typical furnace. The obtained results allowed for proposing a solution of the cold crucible with a lowered, in comparison to the crucible wall, bottom and a reduced number of segments.
Improving rotor geometry to strengthen anti-demagnetization ability of PM
Authors: Guo Liyan , Xia Changliang , Wang Zhiqiang , Shi Tingna
Published: December 2017

When the interior permanent magnet (PM) machine operates under load condition, the armature current is ahead of the back electromotive force. However, the advanced armature current produces the demagnetizing field, which makes the irreversible demagnetization appeared in PMs easily. In this paper, aiming at the U-type PM structure, the expressions of the flux density components in the corresponding magnetizing directions of PMs at each node of PMs are derived. A calculation model to analyze the demagnetization in PMs is established in the Finite Element software by utilizing the derived expressions. Several improved geometries for rotor are proposed in this paper to strengthen the anti-demagnetization ability of PM. Based on the established calculation model, effects of variables in the improved geometries on the demagnetization in PMs and the rated electromagnetic torque are analyzed in detail. Based on the analysis results, optimized improved rotor geometry is achieved giving consideration to the anti-demagnetization ability of PM and rated electromagnetic torque.
Smoothing the static torque characteristic of synchronous reluctance motor by Taguchi optimization method
Authors: Čorović Selma , Zupančič Damijan , Miljavec Damijan
Published: December 2017

This paper focuses on finite element based modelling and optimization of synchronous reluctance machines (SynRM). The primary objective of the study was to improve the static torque characteristic of SynRM by appropriate selection of rotor geometry using design of experiments (DOE) by Taguchi optimization method. The preliminary finite element based numerical model of a SynRM was built and parametric analysis of rotor geometry was performed in order to investigate the impact of number of magnetic flux barriers and their position and size on the resulting static torque characteristic. The acquired characteristics were processed by Fourier analysis in order to identify the content of higher harmonics responsible for the machine torque ripple resulted by each rotor geometry. The processed results were used for smoothing the static torque characteristic of SynRM using DOE by Taguchi optimization method. The design of experiments optimization method by Taguchi was successfully used and implemented for the optimization of the SynRM rotor geometry in order to improve its static torque characteristic. Based on the obtained results the guidelines are proposed for smoothing the static torque characteristic by selecting the appropriate rotor geometry, which may in turn significantly contribute to the reduction of the torque ripple of SynRM.
Long-term neurodevelopment outcome of caffeine versus aminophylline therapy for apnea of prematurity
Authors: Khurana S. , Shivakumar M. , Sujith Kumar Reddy G.V. , Jayashree P. , Ramesh Bhat Y. , Lewis L.E.S. , Shashikala
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE:

Methylxanthines are the most commonly prescribed drug in neonatal setups. However, Clinicians show indecision in choosing the right agent for Apnea of Prematurity in most of the developing countries. Present study aimed to compare rate of mortality and survival with normal neurodevelopment outcome at 18 to 24 months of corrected age, between Caffeine- and Aminophylline-treated infants for apnea of prematurity.

METHODS:

240 infants were randomly allocated to caffeine and aminophylline for apnea of prematurity during February 2012 to January 2015. Long-term neurodevelopmental assessment was done only from children who had attained corrected age of 18 to 24 months during April 2014 to February 2016. Cognitive, language and motor deficits were assessed by Bayley Scale of infant and toddler development (BSID – III). Postnatal characteristics such as hearing and visual impairments during NICU stay were noted and same were followed up.

RESULTS:

Infants allocated to caffeine group showed 83% less risk of getting cognitive impairment (RR 0.16; CI 95% range 0.02 to 1.36), 50% less risk of developing motor deficits (RR 0.50; CI 95% range 0.12 to 1.95) and 24% less risk of developing language problems (RR 0.76; CI 95% range 0.36 to 1.58). However in all the neurodevelopment domains the difference between groups was not statistically significant. Risk of mortality in caffeine group was 9% less over aminophylline group which was statistically non-significant (RR – 0.92; CI 95% range – 0.45 to 1.84; p = 0.81). Physical growth parameters were found to be similar in both the groups. Risk of developing visual abnormality and hearing impairments was also statistically non-significant between the groups.

CONCLUSION:

Caffeine and aminophylline showed similar effects in reducing the rate of mortality and improving the survival without neurodevelopment delays; though the clinical significance of caffeine over aminophylline cannot be undermined.
Allelopathic potential of mustard crop residues on weed management and performance of transplant Aman rice
Authors: Hossain MN , Uddin MR , Sarker UK , Ferdousi S , Uddin MJ
Published: December 2017

Crop allelopathy may be useful to minimize serious problems in the present agricultural production such as environmental pollution, unsafe production, human health concerns, depletion of crop diversity, soil sickness and reduction of crop productivity. In this phenomenon an experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to evaluate the effect of crop residues of mustard on weed management and crop performance of T. aman rice. The experiment consisted of three cultivars of T. aman rice viz., BR11, BR23 and BRRI dhan49 and five different level of mustard crop residues such as no crop residues, mustard crop residues @ 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 t ha–1. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Five weed species belonging to three families infested the experimental plots. Weed population, weed dry weight and percent inhibition of weed were significantly influenced by mustard crop residues and cultivar. The maximum weed growth was noticed with the cultivar BR23 and the minimum was found in the cultivar BR11. The grain yield as well as the other yield contributing characters produced by BR11 was the highest among the studied varieties. The highest percent inhibition of 71.17, 69.19, 80.88, 70.48 and 86.97 was in Shama (Echinochlo acrusgalli), Panishapla (Nymphaea nouchali), Panichaise (Scirpus juncoides), Panikachu (Monochoria vaginalis) and Susnishak (Marsilea quadrifolia), respectively which was caused by the application of mustard crop residues @ 2 t ha–1. The highest loss of grain yield was obtained where no crop residues were incorporated. The highest numbers of tillers hill-1, numbers of grains panicle–1, 1000-grain weight, grain yield, straw yield were observed where mustard crop residues were incorporated @ 2.0 t ha–1. BR11 cultivar with all treatments produced the highest grain and straw yield among the treatment combination. The results of this study indicate that different amount of mustard crop residues showed potential activity to suppress weed growth.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 133-139, December 2017
Cropping pattern based micronutrient application for wheat-mungbean-T. aman crop sequence under Tista Meander Floodplain soil at Rangpur
Authors: Islam MF , Islam MR , Jahiruddin M , Sarmin T
Published: December 2017

Intensification of agricultural land use coupled with cultivation of modern varieties has remarkably increased in Bangladesh. This in turn has resulted in deterioration of soil fertility, with emergence of macro- and micro-nutrient deficiency of crops. With this point in view, a study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of different micronutrients on crop yield, and to determine the requirement of selected micronutrients for crops and cropping patterns in the Tista Meander Floodplain (AEZ 3). Experiments were conducted at BINA substation and farmers’ fields of Rangpur district within AEZ 3. In experiment 1, the field trials were done with six micronutrients (B, Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe & Mo) designed in an additive manner. These elements were imposed to the first crop and their residual effects were monitored on the next two crops over the patterns: wheat-mungbean-T. aman. The rates of micronutrient application were 3 kg Zn, 2 kg B, 2 kg Cu, 3 kg Mn, 5 kg Fe and 1 kg Mo per hectare, added as fertilizers such as ZnSO4.7H2O, H3BO3, CuSO4.5H2O, MnCl2, FeSO4.7H2O and Na2MoO4, respectively. Other nutrients viz. N, P, K & S were applied at recommended rates to all plots; rationale was followed for the second and third crops. Intercultural operations were done whenever required. The results revealed that across the experimental sites, the crops were quite responsive to the added Zn and B. Positive effect of Cu was also noted in some cases. In the following year (expt. 2), two micronutrients, Zn and B were taken into the same cropping pattern and designed in a way to determine whether 1stcrop, 2ndcrop or 3rdcrop application is necessary to achieve satisfactory crop yield.  The rates of Zn application were 0, 2, 4 & 6 kg ha–1, and the rates for B were 0, 1.5 and 3 kg ha–1. The results show that Zn application at 4 kg ha–1 coupled with B application at 1.5 kg ha–1 to the first crop can meet their requirement for the subsequent two crops in a pattern. The present study suggests that cropping pattern based field trials with Zn, B and Cu need to be done at farm level in the high cropping intensity areas of this country in order to determine micronutrient requirement of cropsJ. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 140-147, December 2017
Screening of Sesbania accessions based on early biomass yield
Authors: Chanda Sontosh C , Doula AKM Azad Ud , Sarwa AKM Golam
Published: December 2017

Soft, succulent and readily decomposable Sesbania biomass is one of the best sources of organic matter and nitrogen for improvement of poor, nutrient deficit soils. To select high biomass yielding Sesbania accession(s), an experiment was conducted at Field Laboratory of the Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, following a randomized complete block design with three replications. Seeds of 105 accessions from 3 Sesbania species—S. sesban, S. bispinosa and S. cannabina, were sown in the field @ 60 kg/ha on 23 April 2016. The unit plot size was 3 × 2 m2 with a spacing of 50 cm (row-row) × 15 cm (plant-plant). Data on different yield descriptors were recorded at every 10 day intervals up to 60 days after sowing (DAS). Sesbania sesban produced higher biomass yield at the early growth stages (up to 20 DAS), however, S. bispinosa produced higher biomass at the later stages followed by S. cannabina and S. sesban. Therefore, S. sesban can be grown in a very short rotation [Boro rice-(dhaincha)-Jute-T. Aman rice-Mustard and/or Boro rice-(dhaincha)-T. Aus rice-T. Aman rice-Mustard]; and S. bispinosa for a longer period [Boro rice-(dhaincha)-T. Aman rice-Mustard] to maximize organic matter addition to the soil. Ten accessions of S. bispinosa performed better and produced biomass above 30 g/plant (c. 80 t/ha) within 60 DAS. These accessions could be selected for further study for their decomposability, organic matter accumulation, N2-fixing ability and may be processed to release as recommended cultivar(s).J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 188-192, December 2017
Variability and traits association in maize (Zea mays L.) for yield and yield associated characters
Authors: Ferdoush A , Haque MA , Rashid MM , Bari MAA
Published: December 2017

Maize (Zea mays L.) is world’s third most important cereal crop that has a remarkable productive potential in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, maize is the second most important cereal crop in terms of production. The selection for high yield with desirable traits depends on the genetic variability in the existing germplasm. Successful breeding programs need adequate genetic variation for selection and improvement based on necessity. The research was conducted in the experimental farm of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during November 2015 to April 2016. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of 20 maize genotypes based on their yield and yield contributing characters to determine existing genetic variability. The extrapolated ANOVA for different yield contributing parameters showed a high degree of variation among the genotypes used. Correlation co-efficient analysis revealed that yield plant−1 (g) had positive and significant association with ear girth (cm), 1000-kernel weight (g), yield plot−1 (g), grain yield   (tha−1) with dry weight. The genotypes differed significantly for most of the phenotypic traits. The phenotypic co-efficient of variation (PCV) was higher than genotypic co-efficient of variation (GCV) in all traits studied indicating that those traits were interacted with the environment. The traits under study expressed wide heritability estimates (26.81% to 99.95%). Among the characters, highest heritability was recorded for 1000-kernel weight (g). High heritability along with high genetic advance was noticed for 1000-kernel weight (g), yield plot−1 (g)and grain yield (tha−1). Considering different desirable traits P-12, Popcorn, V90-1, 988 were observed as superior genotypes. The data would be useful for proper identification and selection of appropriate parents in breeding programs to develop new maize varieties.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 193-198, December 2017
Nutrient dynamics in paddy soil under rice culture mesocosm studies
Authors: Islam MA , Khan MA , Rouf MA
Published: December 2017

The objectives of this study were to determine the nutrient losses through the soil columns with the variation of soil and fertilizer. The experiment was conducted in a net house of Sher-e-BanglaAgriculturalUniversity, Dhaka, Bangladesh during July–November to study the effect of fertilizer and manure on the growth and yield of T. aman rice and leaching loss of nutrients through undisturbed soil columns. The experiment consists of 2 factors i.e. soils and fertilizer plus manure. Two soils (S1= SAU Soil and S2= Sonargaon Soil) with 4 levels of fertilization, as F0: Control, F1: 100% N120P20K45S20 (FRG 2012), F2: 50% NPKS + 5 t/ha cowdung, F3: 50% NPKS + 2.1 t/ha poultry manure were used in the experiment. T. Aman (BR11) rice was grown in the soil cores. Altogether, there were 8 treatment combinations and the treatment combinations were replicated 3 times. Twenty four undisturbed soil cores collected in PVC pipes were placed at the bottom of the perforated plastic containers and two holes of each plastic container were connected to a conical flask that was used to collect column leachate.  Leachates were collected at 25, 35, 45, 55, 65 and 75 DAT (Days after transplanting) and analyzed for N, P, K and S. The leachate N, P, K and S concentration varied with different soil, fertilizer and time. The higher N and S concentrations were found in the leachate of SAU soil and higher leachate K concentrations were obtained in Sonargaon soil. The higher amounts of N leaching were observed during 45–55 DAT and higher leachate N concentrations were found in F1 treatment. Higher leachate K concentrations were found in 100% chemical fertilizer treatment and higher leachate K concentrations were found at 35DAT in all fertilizer treatments. The leachate P concentration increased at 35 DAT and then decreased. Results revealed that soil had no significant effect on the yield and yield parameters. The yield contributing characters and yields were significantly affected by fertilizer and manure application. The highest effective tillers/core (17.0), plant height (105.6 cm), panicle length (23.70 cm), grain yield (0.046 kg/core) and straw yield (0.053 kg/core) of T. Aman rice were found from F1 (RDCF) treatment. The highest 1000-grain wt. (23.70 g) was obtained from F2 and filled grain/panicle (121.8) from T3 treatment and the lowest in F0 treatment. The highest grain yield was found by the application of recommended dose of chemical fertilizer which was statistically similar to F3 (50% NPKS + 2.1 ton poultry manure) treatment. The combined effects of soil and fertilizer were not significant but the highest grain (0.049 kg/core) and straw yields (0.056 kg/core) were recorded from S2F1 (Sonargaon Soil + 100% NPKS) treatment combination.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 199-205, December 2017
Prevalence of malaria parasites in indigenous chickens and ducks in selected districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Al Mahmud , Hossain Md Shahadat , Dey Anita Rani , Alam Mohammad Zahangir
Published: December 2017

Avian haematozoans are important pathogens of birds causing asymptomatic to fatal infections. The present study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors of malaria parasite infections in domestic chickens and ducks in three localities namely Mymensingh, Tangail and Netrokona districts in Bangladesh. In total, 474 blood smears (266 chickens and 208 ducks) were screened for haemoprotozoan infection during the period from March, 2016 to February, 2017. Blood samples were collected from wing vein by needle puncture. The parasites were identified from Giemsa stained thin blood smears based on morphological features using standard keys. Malaria protozoa was found in 60 birds (12.7%), of which 35 were chickens (13.2%) and 25 were ducks (12.0%). Two species of blood protozoa were identified namely Leucocytozoon spp. (10.5%) and Plasmodium spp. (2.1%). The prevalence of haemoprotozoa was found high among the adults (13.9%) while it was 11.2% among young birds. Female (15.2%) was 1.46 times more susceptible than male (10.9%).The prevalence rate was highest in Netrokona (18.9%) followed by Tangail (12.2%) and Mymensingh (8.7%). In this study, the prevalence rate was highest in rainy season (18.3%), moderate in summer (10%) and less in winter season (9.3%). Present study revealed that these haemorpotozoa are capable of infecting indigenous domestic chicken and duck. Further studies should focus on characterization of the malaria parasites of indigenous chickens and ducks in Bangladesh.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 260-265, December 2017
Knowledge of farmers about animal management and prevalence of reproductive disorders in cows at Babugonj Upazila under Barisal district of Bangladesh
Authors: Paul AK , Mittra PK , Sarkar PK , Howlader PK
Published: December 2017

The purposes of the study were to evaluate the existing cattle management system, outbreak of reproductive disorders and farmer’s knowledge about cattle rearing. The data were collected from a sample of 100 farm household heads selected out of a total of 1000 farm household heads from Babugonj upazila through multi-stage random sampling technique interview with a pretested questionnaire during the period from January to April 2015. In this survey, we found that 65% farmers were using semi intensive housing system of cattle and 90% did not de-worm their cattle regularly. Only 3% farmers attended a training course related to animal rearing. None of the farmers maintained a register and calculated the feeding cost per month. About 97% farmers faced the problem of reproductive disorders. Still 77% farmers wereusing natural insemination for their cow’s breeding. A total of 200 cows’ history of reproductive disorder was collected. The prevalence of anoestrus,  repeat breeding,  metritis,  poor heat detection,  ovarian cyst,  uterine prolapse,  vaginal prolapse, retained placenta, abortion, still birth,  dystocia,  pyometra and laceration of vagina were 22.0% (44), 14.0% (28), 9.5% (19), 24.0% (48), 1.5% (3), 1.0% (2), 0.5% (1), 9.0% 18), 2.0% (4), 2.5% (5), 3.0% (6), 3.0% (6) and 8.0% (16), respectively. It may be concluded that the knowledge of farmer about cattle management is very poor which influenced the high prevalence of reproductive disorders. The farmers need training on hygienic management and reproduction of cows.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 272-275, December 2017
Harvesting Environmental Microalgal Blooms for Remediation and Resource Recovery: A Laboratory Scale Investigation with Economic and Microbial Community Impact Assessment
Authors: Pandhal Jagroop , Choon Wai , Kapoore Rahul , Russo David , Hanotu James , Wilson I. , Desai Pratik , Bailey Malcolm , Zimmerman William , Ferguson Andrew
Published: December 2017

A laboratory based microflotation rig termed efficient FLOtation of Algae Technology (eFLOAT) was used to optimise parameters for harvesting microalgal biomass from eutrophic water systems. This was performed for the dual objectives of remediation (nutrient removal) and resource recovery. Preliminary experiments demonstrated that chitosan was more efficient than alum for flocculation of biomass and the presence of bacteria could play a positive role and reduce flocculant application rates under the natural conditions tested. Maximum biomass removal from a hyper-eutrophic water retention pond sample was achieved with 5 mg·L−1 chitosan (90% Chlorophyll a removal). Harvesting at maximum rates showed that after 10 days, the bacterial diversity is significantly increased with reduced cyanobacteria, indicating improved ecosystem functioning. The resource potential within the biomass was characterized by 9.02 μg phosphate, 0.36 mg protein, and 103.7 μg lipid per mg of biomass. Fatty acid methyl ester composition was comparable to pure cultures of microalgae, dominated by C16 and C18 chain lengths with saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Finally, the laboratory data was translated into a full-size and modular eFLOAT system, with estimated costs as a novel eco-technology for efficient algal bloom harvesting.