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Blackberry gel-assisted combustion modified MgO: Sm3+ nanoparticles for photocatalytic, battery, sensor and antibacterial applications
Green synthetic methods are currently preferred in industry over other physicochemical methods. Herein, we present a facile, environmentally friendly, non-toxic approach for the fabrication of MgO using jamun fruit extract. The phytochemicals present in the fruit extract, such as kaemferol, glucoside, anthocyanins, ellagic acid, myricetin, and isoquercetin, facilitate the bio-reduction of Mg(NO3)2. Pure and Sm3+ (17 mol %) doped MgO nanomaterials were synthesized using this bio-mediated synthetic method. The structural and morphological properties of the synthesized nanomaterials were studied using Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Diffused Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) techniques. The effect of Sm3+ ions on the host matrix for the photo-catalytic oxidation of Fast Orange-Red (FOR) dye was investigated under UV light irradiation. MgO: Sm3+(3 mol %) exhibited superior (94 %) degradation of the dye compared to pristine and other doped catalysts, attributed to the maximum migration of charge carriers at the catalyst's surface. Additionally, the 3 mol % Sm3+ doped MgO electrode demonstrated a smaller charge transfer resistance, indicating superior capacitive properties compared to pristine and other doped electrodes. The synthesized materials also exhibited effective bacterial activity against pathogens. This research demonstrates the potential of the synthesized nanomaterials for environmental pollution purification, as well as their utility as electrode materials for supercapacitors, batteries, sensors, and antibacterial applications. 2024 The Author(s) -
AstroSat's view of 4U 1735-44: spectral, temporal, and type I X-ray burst studies
This study utilizes the simultaneous broad-band observations of 4U 1735-44 from AstroSat, offering enhanced spectral and temporal resolution, to investigate its spectral properties, temporal behaviour, and burst characteristics. Spectral, type I X-ray burst, and temporal analyses on 4U 1735-44 were performed using AstroSat/Soft X-ray Telescope and Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC) observations. The hardness-intensity diagram from LAXPC-20 showed a positive correlation between hardness and intensity, with a pattern resembling the banana branch typical of atoll sources. Spectral analysis carried out in the 0.7-20.0 keV energy range, using the model combination - (), suggested a cool accretion disc truncated at a large distance from the neutron star in the system. Time-resolved spectral studies of two type I X-ray bursts detected from the source revealed evidence of photospheric radius expansion, allowing for an estimation of the source distance. Temporal analysis showed the presence of low-frequency quasi-periodic oscillation at 69 Hz (3.3 significance with more than 99 per cent confidence) and prominent noise features below 30 Hz. 2024 The Author(s). -
Importance of political cartoons to newspapers /
Political cartoons are an important part in any newspaper. Political cartoons adorn a small part of a newspaper, often in a corner. The position of this piece although small the impact is huge. A cartoon conveys a lot of information in very few words. The emotions behind the political cartoons are genuine and although harsh, are taken with a sense of humour. While incomparison editorials are, firstly for the elite masses who understand the highly intellectual content of the piece, also editorials have a tendency to be politically correct and hold back, unlike cartoons. Cartoons are generally blatant about their stand on the issue. There have been controversial cartoons like JyllandsPostenthe Mohammad cartoon and the effective yet less controversial R.K.Laxman. -
From Namaskara to Annyeong Questioning Where I Belong
[No abstract available] -
BTS: Belonging and Becoming
[No abstract available] -
Effect of hooked end steel fibers on strength and durability properties of ambient cured geopolymer concrete
Growing carbon emissions in the construction industry have warranted the use of alternative materials such as geopolymer concrete. At the same time exposure of concrete material to harsh environmental conditions has compelled to design of durable geopolymer concrete. The use of hooked-end steel fibers in conventional fiber-reinforced concrete has proven to improve its crack resistance, and thus, positively influence the durability properties of concrete structures. Nevertheless, limited studies explore the effect of hooked-end steel fibers on the strength and durability properties of ambient cured geopolymer concrete with a low NaOH content (i.e., 8 M concentration). In this study, ambient cured geopolymer concrete was prepared by fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), NaOH, Na2SiO3, manufactured sand, and natural coarse aggregates. Additionally, hooked-end steel fibers with an aspect ratio of 67 were added to the mix by volume fraction in dosages of 0 %, 0.5 %, 1 %, 1.5 %, and 2 %. The experimental results showed that the addition of fibers reduced the workability with a minimum slump of 70 mm and a maximum Vee Bee time of 8 s for mixes with 2 % steel fibers. The addition of fibers improved the compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength of geopolymer concrete, with a maximum strength of 41.44 MPa, 4.28 MPa, and 5.23 MPa at an optimum fiber dose of 1 %, respectively. Above the optimum dose, the strength of the steel fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete (SFRGPC) was reduced. The depth of water penetration reduced in SFRGPC when compared to GPC. Moreover, the resistance to chloride ion penetration was not significantly affected by addition of steel fibers till optimum dose of 1 %. The scanning electron microscopic results revealed the positive effect of steel fibers in restricting the progression of cracks. This has resulted in smaller crack width in the SFRGPC when compared to GPC. Overall, steel fibers in optimum dose have improved the performance of geopolymer concrete and this will contribute towards low carbon material. 2023 The Authors -
Durability Studies and Stress Strain Characteristics of hooked end steel fiber reinforced ambient cured geopolymer concrete
For conventional concrete, the use of fibers has proven to improve the strength properties of the material. However, in the case of ambient cured geopolymer concrete, there are limited studies that explore the application of fibers, in particular, the use of hooked end steel fibers. Further, it is important to study the durability properties of geopolymer concrete with fibers, since it will influence the service life of the structures in practice. Therefore, in the present study, fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete was synthesized using fly ash, GGBS, hooked end steel fibers, and alkaline solution made with Na2SiO3 and NaOH. The percentage of steel fibers varied in the range of 0.5% to 2% with an increment of 0.5% by volume fraction of the binder. The precursor materials were characterized using techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Durability studies like water absorption, drying shrinkage, sulphate attack were studied. In addition, the elastic constants were determined through stress strain behaviour of geopolymer concrete in uniaxial compression. The results of the experimental study showed that the addition of hooked end steel fibers influences the strength of geopolymer concrete up to an optimal percentage, which was found to be 1%. Furthermore, in terms of durability properties, the addition of fibers exhibited better results in terms of resistance to water absorption and chemical attack, and this was validated by the microstructural studies, where the specimens with hooked end steel fibers revealed much denser hardened geopolymer matrix when compared to the mixes without fibers. Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd. -
Effect of fiber types, shape, aspect ratio and volume fraction on properties of geopolymer concrete A review
Researchers have emphasized on sustainable construction with utilization of industrial wastes or byproducts in production of concrete. Geopolymer concrete is one of the popular construction materials which has shown promising results and potential to substitute conventional energy intensive materials such as Portland cement concrete. Further, the use of fibers has shown potential to overcome various deficiencies of geopolymer concrete. However, there are limited studies which explore the benefits of fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete and its applications. The development of fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete is relatively new construction material and has to be experimentally validated in order to increase its usage in the construction industry. As a result, this review paper is an attempt to discuss the effect of shape, type, aspect ratio and volume fraction of fibers on strength and durability properties of geopolymer concrete. From this detailed review it can be concluded that fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete enhances ductile behavior, tensile strength, toughness & energy absorption capacities. 2022 -
Continuous emotion estimation for human machine interaction
Humans are able to interact and bond very efficiently with other species because every living organism has some form of emotion in them. Due to the advances in science and technology human life has become more dependent on machines for better living. The recent advances in technology enabled machines to become smarter but not efficient in terms of interaction with humans. Hence to address this issue and to bridge the gap between human machine interactions we propose a system to estimate human emotions from facial expressions. We believe that facial expressions are a form of nonverbal communication and primary means of conveying information. The system uses linear regression model to calculate emotional state of a facial expression which is mapped onto continuous 2-D coordinates with arousal and valence as axis from a captured digital image. Thus the proposed method estimates emotion continuously and predictively like humans rather than classifying the emotions because emotions are continuous and they have many dimensions. By estimating emotions continuously machines can better interact with humans. Experimental results showed that our system provides superior predictive performance. 2015 American Scientific Publishers. All rights reserved. -
Transformational leadership and organizational citizenship behavior: new mediating roles for trustworthiness and trust in team leaders
This study investigates the pivotal role of trust in bridging the effects of transformational leadership on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). The study was conducted using a multilevel longitudinal approach with 276 employees in 71 teams from private medium-sized organizations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Transformational leadership was found to be positively related to: (1) three facets of trustworthiness (ability, benevolence, and integrity); (2) trust in the leader; and (3) OCB. All three facets of trustworthiness mediated the relationship between transformational leadership and trust in leaders. In addition, trust in the leader mediated only the relationship between the benevolence facet of trustworthiness and OCB. As OCB is inherently benevolent, these findings not only are consistent with the principle of compatibility, but they also contribute to theorizing about how trust plays an important role in the influence of transformational leadership on employees. The Author(s) 2023. -
Implementation of digital signature using hybrid cryptosystem
Security is a major concern when it comes to electronic data transfer. Digital signature uses hash function and asymmetric algorithms to uniquely identify the sender of the data and it also ensures integrity of the data transferred. Hybrid encryption uses both symmetric and asymmetric cryptography to enhance the security of the data. Digital Signature is used to identify the owner of the document but it does not hide the information while transferring the document. Anyone can read the message. To avoid this, data sent along with the signature should be secured. In this paper, Digital signature is combined with hybrid encryption to enhance the security level. Security of the data or the document sent is achieved by using hybrid encryption technique along with digital signature. 2018 Authors. -
Need of integrated care model for positive childbirth experience in Indian maternity care services
BACKGROUND: Integrated care (IC) models are an emerging trend in healthcare reforms worldwide, especially in the maternal healthcare system. This research focuses on the scope of an integrated model for intrapartum care of women and explores the experience of birth under two intrapartum care modelsbiomedical and midwifery models, respectively. The term positive childbirth experience (PCE) is a concept defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the recommendations on intrapartum care for a PCE. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This study is convinced to employ a qualitative approach to explore how birth is experienced by women under maternity healthcare services in Kerala. A semi?structured interview was conducted to tap into the lived reality of birthing of sixteen first?time mothers (primipara) aged between 20 and 30 years under these two models. Furthermore, five participants have been specifically interviewed after their vaginal birth after a C?section (VBAC) experience. To achieve a systematic cross?case thematic analysis, systematic text condensation (STC) has been employed as a data analysis method. RESULTS: Four main categories were identified through the analysis as follows: (1) information and knowledge, (2) confidence, (3) quality of care, and (4) health?promoting perspective. These central themes evolved from 11 subthemes. CONCLUSION: The data analysis reveals both negative and positive experiences under two care models. It emphasizes the urgent need to reframe the biomedical?focused care model and adopt an integrated approach that aligns with the global intrapartum care model proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2018 and the definition of IC mentioned in the paper. 2024 Journal of Education and Health Promotion. -
ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN URBAN VANETS FOR IMPROVING SLIPPERY ROADS RIDE AFTER RAIN
Urban Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) face challenges in managing accidents and enhancing safety, particularly on slippery roads post rainfall. This study addresses this issue by proposing an Accident Prevention and Management System tailored for improving ride safety in such conditions. The problem statement identifies the increased risk of accidents and decreased road grip due to rain-induced slippery surfaces in urban areas. The proposed method integrates real-time data collection from vehicles and road infrastructure to predict and detect slippery road segments. Utilising this information, the system dynamically disseminates warnings to nearby vehicles, enabling them to adapt their driving behaviour and avoid potential accidents. The flow of the proposed system involves a multi-step process: (1) Real-time data collection using sensors installed in vehicles and roadside infrastructure, (2) Data analysis and prediction algorithms to identify slippery road segments, (3) Communication protocols for disseminating warnings to vehicles in the neighbourhood, and (4) Driver assistance mechanisms to aid in adapting to the road conditions. Results from simulations and real-world experiments demonstrate the efficacy of the system in significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents on slippery roads after rainfall. By leveraging VANET technology and real-time data analysis, this system enhances safety by providing timely warnings and promoting safer driving practices, ultimately mitigating the risks associated with adverse weather conditions in urban environments. 2024, Scibulcom Ltd.. All rights reserved. -
Prospects of CSR: An Overview of 500 Indian Companies
The IUP Journal of Corporate Governance, ISSN No. 0972-6853 -
Making a Difference: Social Responsibilities of Infosys
International Journal of Management, IT and Engineering Vol. 2, Issue 10, pp 336-350, ISSN No. 2249-0558 -
Sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility - An Analysis of 50 Definitions for a Period of 2000-2011
Zenith International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research Vol. 2, Issue 10, pp. 169-193, ISSN No. 2231-5780 -
Applying talent acquisition to the test: Assessing productivity in facilities organization /
Pramana Research Journal, Vol.9, Issue 2, pp.197-207, ISSN No: 2249-2976. -
Biomimicry : An approach to sustainable architecture and design /
International Journal of Life Sciences Research, Vol.7, Issue 1, pp.318-323, ISSN No: 2348-3148. -
Service delivery quality improvement models: A review /
Procedia Social Science And Behavioral Sciences, Vol.144, pp.510-527, ISSN No: 1877-0428. -
