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NU Research Week: abstracts

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Open Access
A case study of a Kazakhstani EAP foundation course listening class: targeting student's perceived lecture listening needs
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Ketteringham, M.
This case study investigated students" perceived listening needs on a foundation programme in Kazakhstan. Needs Analysis (NA) is key to targeting students" needs and tailoring materials to develop their language competence. NA has a number of stakeholders involved including the institution, academic community members, and importantly, it empowers learners as "reflective community members" [1].
Open Access
A case study: municipal waste management in Astana, Kazakhstan (A guideline of waste management for developing countries)
(Nazarbayev University, 2013) Kim, J.R.; Inglezakis, V.; Rojas-Solorzano, L.; Ismailova, A.; Aitbekova, A.; Shorakyzy, G.; Kystauova, A.
This research is currently ongoing and as a preliminary result, it is noticed the need of: increasing proportion of recycling in the waste management system, constructing incineration plants in the city, improving waste collection with the involvement of private companies, and introducing volume-based charging system.
Open Access
A dem investigation of the effect of particle-size-distribution on one-dimensional compression
(Nazarbayev University, 2013) Minh, N. H.; Cheng, Y.P.
For granular soils subjected to many thousands of per cents of shear strain, a critical grading was also found at which no possible further particle breakage occurred. The critical grading can be plotted as a straight line in the double-log scale, thus indicating a power-law distribution with a fractal dimension D = 2.57. Altuhafi and Coop conducted an oedometer test on granular soils artificially prepared with critical grading (CG in Fig. 1) and did not observe significant particle breakage for these soils; rather, the particle surface roughness was, instead, reduced. In this work, DEM simulations using the PFC3D version 4.0 were conducted. Assemblies of spherical particles with different particle size distributions but no particle breakage were subjected to one-dimensional (1D) compressions.
Open Access
A multiparametric programming rolling horizon scheduling framework: application in a network of combined heat and power systems
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Kopanos, G. M.
We introduce a new approach for the reactive scheduling of production systems with uncertain parameters of bounded form. The proposed method follows a state-space representation for the scheduling problem, and relies on the use of a rolling horizon framework and multiparametric programming (mp) techniques. We show that by considering as uncertain parameters the set of variables that describe the state of the system at the beginning of the prediction horizon, we can effectively formulate a set of state-space mp problems that are solved just once and offline. In contrast to existing methods, the repetitive solution of a new mp after each disruptive event is avoided. The results of the parametric optimization are used in a rolling horizon basis without the need for online optimization. The proposed mp rolling horizon (mpRH) approach is applied in the scheduling of a network of combined heat and power (CHP) units.
Open Access
A new generalization of the normal distribution: the gamma-normal distribution and its applications
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Alzaatreh, A.; Famoye, F.; Lee, C.
Statistical distributions are commonly applied to describe real world phenomena. Due to the usefulness of statistical distributions, their theory is widely studied and new distributions are developed. The interest in developing more flexible statistical distributions remains strong in statistics profession. Many generalized classes of distributions have been developed and applied to describe various phenomena. Recently, Alzaatreh et al. (2014) developed a new method to generate family of distributions and called it the gamma-X family of distributions.
Open Access
A peripheral viewpoint on the land reform in the uzbek SSR (1924-1929)
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Penati, B.
The land-and-water reform in the Uzbek SSR was the most important mobilization initiative that the Bolshevik regime carried out in the 1920s. Its impact in terms of land redistribution was small, but it generated consensus in the countryside and produced a first cohort of rural Uzbek communists. This research (and the two articles it results in) stems out of a more general reappraisal of the reform. For the first time, the latter is studied from a bottom-up perspective, focusing on a single district (Aim, Andijan province, eastern Fergana). In addition, I show the connection between the land reform, national delimitation and boundary-making, and the anti-Islamic hujum campaign, which are usually studied in isolation.
Open Access
Advancing models of best practice in academic governance and management in higher education institutions in Kazakhstan
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Sagintayeva, A.; Hartley, M.; Apergenova, R.; Bilyalov, D.; Orunkhanov, M.
This is a collaborative research project of Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Education (NUGSE) in partnership with the Graduate School of Education of University of Pennsylvania (PennGSE). The Project aims at studying how academic leaders at public and private institutions in Kazakhstan are preparing for greater institutional autonomy and encouraging innovation [1].
Open Access
Age-realted dementia in Kazahstan: adaptation of the 10/66 dementia research group population -based study protocol
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Kaiyrlykyzy, A.; Adambekov, Sh.; Alimbetov, D.; Askarova, Sholpan
Background. The prevalence of dementia is increasing worldwide as the population ages and affects 10 % of the population over 65 years old and 40 % of people over the age of 80.[1] In Kazakhstan, as well as in other countries around the world, the population of aged people has been increasing over the past decades. According to available statistics, by the end of 2013, the percentage of people aged 65 and older in Kazakhstan was 6.7% [2]. Given the fact that Kazakhstan's current population is about 17,221 million people [2], and based on data from the global statistics, it can be assumed that at least 115,000 elderly people could be suffering from age-related dementia. Nevertheless, such pathology is currently may not being diagnosed in Kazakhstan; consequently giving no accurate statistical data on the number of people suffering from this age-related pathology. Thus, the aim of this study is to estimate true prevalence of dementia and assess the risk factors associated with the disease.
Open Access
Algebraic methods of data retrieval
(Nazarbayev University, 2013) Adaricheva, K.; Nation, J.B.
Discovery of (strong) association rules, or implications, between the attributes of a binary table is an important task in data management, and it finds application in artificial intelligence, data mining and the semantic web. The challenge of the task is to deal with the large data sets, when the most known approaches require a time that depends exponentially on the size of the data
Open Access
ALIAS calculus for a simple imperative language
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Shilov, N. V.
This research has been supported by Nazarbayev University Seed Grant KF-14/16 "Research of Formal Models for analysis of programs with Dynamic Memory".
Open Access
All-at-once multilevel interation for BI-harmonic system
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Erlangga, Y.
The iterative method converges at a rate that is independent of the mesh size. The rate of convergence is comparable to that of multigrid, but is achieved with simpler components.
Open Access
Altered NR2A/NR2B ratio in hippocampus of spatial learning-impaired aged rats
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Tokay, T.; Rehberg, M.; Kirschstein, T.; Rohde, M.; Mueller, L.; Askarova, Sholpan; Kohling, R.; Zhumadilov, Z.
The activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is critical for the induction of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Aging can alter glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the hippocampus, and cognitive impairments in aged animals are accompanied by reduced NMDARmediated plasticity at Schaffer collateral—CA1 synapses. However, the specific contribution of NMDAR subunits to NMDAR-mediated synaptic responses in aged tissue has not yet been fully understood. The main purpose of present study was to examine whether there is an impact of aging on NMDAR subunit expression and whether synaptic plasticity may depend on NMDAR subunit composition in the aged hippocampus.
Open Access
An alternative representation for symmetric states of qubits
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Mandilara, A.; Coudreau, T.; Keller, A.; Milman, P.
Symmetric states span the same space as spin J systems, are of use in quantum optics and form a good test-ground for quantum theory. The proposed decomposition sheds new light on our understanding of these states, and provides a new mathematical tool for representing and eventually manipulating them.
Open Access
An experience with teaching squares
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Clementi, A.; Goodman, Bridget; Kovanis, V.; Rizvi, M.
Teaching Squares is a technique which was developed in 2001, is now used at numerous universities worldwide, and is aimed at informing and improving teaching [1]. It uses a process of classroom observation combined with personal and group reflection, while being free from the pressure of peer observations typically performed for the purpose of evaluation. For the initial trial of this technique at Nazarbayev University, three groups of four professors each (3 squares) were selected from across the university. We report the experience of our square.
Open Access
An integrated review program for the preparation for the United States medical license examination (USMLE)
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Rogers, P.; Niyazmetova, L.; Abdiyeva, K.
The primary objective of the present educational research program is to improve upon existing commercially available USMLE review programs. With the clear shortage of both residency slots, the medical student's performance (score), on the USMLE assumes a new and critical importance. Furthermore, there is a global need for 4.3 million new doctors and nurses. This shortage is particularly evident in Central and Southeast Asia. Many of the needed new doctors will most probably be required to pass the USMLE.
Open Access
An optimization-based framework for the scheduling of operations of compressed natural gas fuelling stations: a case study of municipal bus fleet in south Kazakhstan
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Seiilova, L.; Kopanos, G. M.
This work introduces an optimization-based framework for the scheduling of operations of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuelling stations for municipal bus fleets. The problem under study considers technical characteristics of the bus engines as well as the distance of their routes. This allows the planning of operations of the compressor network of the CNG fuelling station in accordance with the electricity price, storage capacity and time.
Open Access
Analysis of bull/bear market patterns in the stock market index data
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Brusic, V.
One of the tools in financial forecasting is technical analysis where patterns that predict future prices and market behavior are identified from past market data. Technical analysis uses charts to identify predictive patterns - it can be applied to the analysis of prices of stocks, currencies, precious metals, commodities, various indices, futures, or financial derivatives. The underlying assumption is that the current price is the summary of all information available, that price movements are a combination of random fluctuations and periods of non-random patterns, and that accurate forecasting can be performed without knowing the specific reasons that cause price changes. Technical analysis often fails to forecast disruptive events, such as formation of bubbles, crises, and emergence of systemic risks.
Open Access
Analysis of pollutant dispersion in a street canyon of Astana
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Akhatova, A.; Kassymov, A.; Kazmaganbetova, M.; Rojas-Solorzano, L.
Due to the steadily rising number of vehicles, atmospheric air pollution has become one of the evident problems in main cities around the world. Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is not an exception with it current expansion and economic growth. In order to avoid the hazardous consequences of automobile and industry pollution onto the residents' health of Astana, it is important to analyze and monitor the conditions of atmospheric air in the city. The main objective of this research project is to simulate and analyze the dispersion of vehicle pollutants (CO) at the crossroad of Zhenis and Bogenbay streets using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools based on SolidWorks-EFD numerical platform. This particular place for the study is selected because of its relatively heavy traffic load and its close location to many residential buildings.
Open Access
Analysis of protector mechanism of probiotics using DNA comet assay
(Nazarbayev University, 2014) Zhulamanova, A.; Shakhabayeva, G.; Saduakhasova, S.; Kozhakhmetov, S.; Kushugulova, A.
Ecology affects human organism by causing breaks in DNA and, therefore, induce mutations and malignant cell formation. Comet assay is a quantitative method that allows to measure DNA damage in eukaryotic cells (Liao, McNutt, & Zhu, 2009). This method is widely used in areas, such as human biomonitoring, genotoxicology, and ecology. Comet assay is also called a single-cell gel electrophoresis. Thus, the products of electrophoresis are analyzed under the fluorescent light, which makes it similar to comets. DNA strand breaks are detected by comparing the intensity of the comet tail relative to the head (Collins, 2004). Probiotics containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus were used, as Lactobacilli probiotics were found to be safe and effective against urogenital diseases, food hypersensitivity, and dental caries (Lebeer, Vanderleyden, & De Keersmaeckler, 2008). The aim of the research was to study DNA protector mechanism for three probiotic products, containing L. rhamnosus.
Open Access
Applied state estimation
(Nazarbayev University, 2013) Emara-Shabaik, H. E.
State estimation of dynamic systems plays a key role in monitoring and controlling such systems. State estimates are used for health status check in order to maintain safe operations of systems and processes. Also, it is used to optimally control the dynamic system under consideration. Research results obtained in applying state estimation in aerospace, oil and gas, and energy are presented.