Determining the factors that promote higher order thinking skills in mathematics technology enhanced learning environment: perspective from university students

The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that influence promotion of higher order thinking skills (HOTS) among mathematics higher learning institution students in technology enhanced learning environment (TEL) in Malaysia. The study used descriptive research design. Data of the study was collected by using quantitative research approach. A total of 250 students from three public universities participated in the study. The study explores the relationship between students' attitude towards technology use and organisation support towards promotion of HOTS in mathematics TEL environment. Results from structural equation modelling reported that students' attitude towards technology use had a positive direct relationship with HOTS. Meanwhile, organisation support had a positive direct relationship with students' attitude towards technology use which in turn indirectly influence promotion of HOTS. The hypothesized structural equation model accounted for 20.2% of the variance in HOTS. The results indicated a need for further studies in order to examine factors that predict promotion of HOTS in mathematics TEL at higher learning institutions in Malaysia

Quantum control of 88^{88}Sr+^+ in a miniature linear Paul trap

We report on the construction and characterization of an apparatus for quantum information experiments using $^{88}$Sr$^+$ ions. A miniature linear radio-frequency (rf) Paul trap was designed and built. Trap frequencies above 1 MHz in all directions are obtained with 50 V on the trap end-caps and less than 1 W of rf power. We encode a quantum bit (qubit) in the two spin states of the $S_{1/2}$ electronic ground-state of the ion. We constructed all the necessary laser sources for laser cooling and full coherent manipulation of the ions' external and internal states. Oscillating magnetic fields are used for coherent spin rotations. High-fidelity readout as well as a coherence time of 2.5 ms are demonstrated. Following resolved sideband cooling the average axial vibrational quanta of a single trapped ion is $\bar n=0.05$ and a heating rate of $\dot{\bar n}=0.016$ ms$^{-1}$ is measured.Comment: 8 pages,9 figure

Microfabricated Ion Traps

Ion traps offer the opportunity to study fundamental quantum systems with high level of accuracy highly decoupled from the environment. Individual atomic ions can be controlled and manipulated with electric fields, cooled to the ground state of motion with laser cooling and coherently manipulated using optical and microwave radiation. Microfabricated ion traps hold the advantage of allowing for smaller trap dimensions and better scalability towards large ion trap arrays also making them a vital ingredient for next generation quantum technologies. Here we provide an introduction into the principles and operation of microfabricated ion traps. We show an overview of material and electrical considerations which are vital for the design of such trap structures. We provide guidance in how to choose the appropriate fabrication design, consider different methods for the fabrication of microfabricated ion traps and discuss previously realized structures. We also discuss the phenomenon of anomalous heating of ions within ion traps, which becomes an important factor in the miniaturization of ion traps

Threshold effect of foreign direct investment on environmental degradation

The aim of this paper is to investigate the threshold effect of foreign direct investment (FDI) on environmental degradation. In empirical analysis, FDI and environmental degradation are jointly determined under the given threshold variable and other exogenous variables. Using carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per capita as a proxy for environmental degradation, the results show that increasing FDI worsens CO2 emissions after a threshold level of corruption has been reached. Our results demonstrate that increasing FDI will increase CO2 emissions when the degree of corruptibility is relatively high. The study suggests that further FDI and improved environmental quality are competing rather than compatible objectives in high-corruption countries and are compatible rather than competing objectives in low-corruption countries. Higher trade liberalization in low-corruption countries could contribute to negative environmental consequences because of the increased output or economic activity which results from increased trade. The robustness estimation confirms the evidence that pollution and economic development increase together up to a certain income level, after which the trend reverses.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Narrowing the Gaps Through Regional Cooperation Institutions and Governance Systems

Regional governance systems and national frameworks to address climate change and accelerate green growth in Asia are reviewed and tools to address climate change are outlined. Options for regional level political institutions and financial architecture needed to fulfill voluntary pledges and programs are suggested and potentials, options, and challenges regarding monitoring, reporting, and verification systems are analyzed. In conclusion, policy measures for adaption and mitigation to climate change are provided

Amniocentesis in the HIV-Infected Pregnant Woman: Is There Still Cause for Concern in the Era of Combination Antiretroviral Therapy?

The current standard of care in Canadian obstetrical practice is to offer pregnant women the opportunity for prenatal investigation to diagnose congenital abnormalities. Prenatal amniocentesis is Canada’s most commonly practiced invasive procedure for the diagnosis of chromosomal and single gene disorders. The potential risk of intrapartum HIV transmission during amniocentesis raises several ethical concerns and limits the availability of prenatal genetic testing for HIV-positive pregnant women. Complete virological suppression with antiretroviral therapy may alleviate the risk of mother-to-child transmission during amniocentesis and increase accessibility of this important diagnostic tool in the HIV-positive population. The present report describes a case involving a 32-year-old HIV-positive pregnant woman whose plasma viral load was undetectable on antiretroviral therapy; she underwent successful prenatal amniocentesis without transmission of HIV to her infant.Peer Reviewe

Migrating to technology integrated classes to promote higher order thinking skills among university students: perspectives from mathematics academicians

This study investigates factors that influence the use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools by academicians to promote higher order thinking skills (HOTS) among university mathematics students. The study adapted constructs such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy and facilitating conditions from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. The study applied descriptive research design and used quantitative and qualitative approach in the form of questionnaire and interview to gather data from 86 academicians from three local public universities in Malaysia. The data were analysed in terms of descriptive analysis and content analysis. The result showed that the technology, instructor, student, learning material, task and organisational factors play important roles in promoting HOTS among students. The study contributed to expanding readers' understanding of the factors that influence the use of ICT tools by academicians to promote HOTS among university students