Browsing by Author "Akther, Naznin"

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    Application of a Distributed Verification in Islamic Microfinance Institutions
    (Springer, 22-08-26) Hassan, M. Kabir; Wanke, Peter; Azad, Md. Abul Kalam; Rahman, Md. Azizur; Akther, Naznin
    The literature gap in microfinance paradox of double bottom line (financial performance vs. outreach) has always been an interesting area of research. This paper proposes a theoretical model most suitable for Islamic Microfnance Institutions (MFIs) which enables Islamic MFIs’ to operate together with the existing fnancial models compliant with Islamic Shariah Law. This model is based on a distributed verifcation/ decision-making process that might be realized (but not necessary) through blockchain. Among the available distributed verifcation techniques, blockchain technology is an attractive emerging computing paradigm due to its decentralized, immutable, shared, and secure data structure characteristics. This model proposes three signifcant propositions. First, sharing information through blockchain will allow a transparent network in MFI operations, which will raise confdence for donors resulting in a causal efect of a relatively lower proft rate to be charged by the MFIs. Second, the consensus mechanism will enable risk-sharing, a character of Islamic fnance; thus, the MFIs will operate without any collateral for low-risk frms. Third, the double bottom line of MFIs’ long-lasting paradox would be solved. As for practical implication of this proposed model, the causal impact of lower cost investment by the lenders would increase social welfare because of no collateral and no initial wealth requirement. The proposed model proposes a credit rationing approach where proft can be negative. No collateral will be used when calculating the creditworthiness of a borrower.
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    SINGLE-FEED DUAL BEAM SWITCHABLE ARRAY ANTENNA FOR ISM BAND APPLICATION
    (CUET, 10-Oct-2023) Akther, Naznin
    This manuscript proposes one single-feed dual-beam switchable array antenna and one single-feed multi-beam switchable array antenna. The proposed antenna contains three and four microstrip square patch antenna elements and a switchable feed network respectively. In dual-beam design, the feed network creates a 900 phase difference between the center element and the right or left antenna elements. This antenna can tilt its main beam direction to θ = by exciting either right or left antenna elements along with the center patch through two PIN diodes, respectively. The dual-beam switching concept is experimentally verified with better than 8 dBi gain for every condition at ɸ = 00-plane. The proposed multi-beam array antenna has two 900 switchable phase shifters. The 900 switchable phase shifter consists of a single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switch and a hybrid coupler. The hybrid coupler generates a 900 phase difference between the antenna elements to tilt its radiation pattern. The two SPDT switches can generate three modes to control the input ports of the hybrid coupler. As a result, two tilted beams and one difference pattern are generated from the same structure. A prototype multi-beam antenna is fabricated to demonstrate the concept experimentally. The measured results confirm the concept with a good agreement between the simulation and measurement. Better than 20dB cross-polarization suppression is achieved in the measurement.