bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Search of 20-Minute Neighborhoods: Toronto’s Pedestrian Network using Walkability to Nearest Amenities
Authors: Sulaiman Ablajan , Tenney Matthew
Published: February 2023

Abstract

: This study aimed to construct and assess a pedestrian walkable network that would be used further to generate an analytical lens for the assessment of community walkability across the City of Toronto.
In this study, we dealt with proximity analysis of pedestrian network in Toronto city by visualizing how “walkable” a destination is, in terms of access to different amenities like schools, libraries, hospitals, supermarkets, TTC stops and convenience stores. The basic approach of this study is first to create pedestrian networks as graphs of links and nodes, then calculate walking distance and minutes based on the accessibility of various amenities via pedestrian sidewalks networks and analyse pedestrian walkability. 20-minute neighbourhoods walkability has been calculated to determine how-walkable a particular area is in relation to pedestrian access to various amenities and socio-demographic characteristics. The overall result gives an overall walkability score or allows users to know if a given neighbourhoods are more walkable within 20 minutes. These analytical results provide policy opportunities for city planners to pursue strategies to encourage the development of more walkable (pedestrian friendly) and to improve accessibility to meet the needs of its users. This study details an analytical approach to measure 20-minute neighbourhoods with the aim of supporting city wide policies to identify opportunities to design more liveable 20-minute neighbourhoods.
NGO Governance: The Case of Nepal
Authors: Sharma Dhakal Vivek
Published: February 2023

The debate on the need to adopt a participatory approach in planning and implementing development projects and programmes has increased significantly. This paper explores the role of participation in project planning and implementation in the field of development. This study critically analyses the role of a participatory approach in project planning and implementation in practice through a review of literature. There are contentious viewpoints on the significance of the participatory approach in development practise and claim that it lacks evidence of community empowerment. However, this study espouses that the optimum advantage of adopting a participatory approach in the planning and implementation of projects in practice essentially depends on how participation is conducted.
Selección óptima de conductores en redes de distribución trifásicas utilizando el algoritmo metaheurístico de Newton
Authors: Nivia Torres Daniel Julián , Salazar Alarcón Guillermo Alejandro , Montoya Giraldo Oscar Danilo
Published: February 2023

Contexto: El crecimiento acelerado de las ciudades y áreas rurales requiere de la adecuada expansión del sistema eléctrico de distribución para atender de manera eficiente, confiable y segura los requerimientos de energía eléctrica de usuarios comerciales, residenciales e industriales. Para atender a los diferentes usuarios de la red eléctrica, una metodología típica empleada por los operadores de red corresponde a la asignación óptima de los calibres de los conductores asociados a las rutas de distribución, teniendo en cuenta su costo de inversión y operación para un horizonte de planeación determinando.
Método: Para resolver el problema de selección optima en redes de distribución trifásicas, se propone la aplicación de un algoritmo de optimización de la familia de las técnicas combinatoriales conocido como algoritmo metaheurístico de Newton (AMN). La principal ventaja del AMN es que emplea reglas de evolución basadas en la primera y segunda derivadas de la función objetivo, las cuales se aplican a cada individuo de la población. Además, las reglas de evolución del AMN hacen que este algoritmo tenga un balance adecuando entre la exploración y la explotación del espacio de soluciones a medida que avanza proceso iterativo.
Resultados: Validaciones numéricas en dos sistemas de distribución trifásicos compuestos de 8 y 27 nodos con escenarios de operación balanceada y desbalanceada demuestran que el AMN alcanza la solución óptima reportada en la literatura para el sistema de 8 nodos y mejora los reportes científicos para el sistema de prueba de 27 nodos en ambos escenarios de prueba.
Conclusiones: Los resultados obtenidos mediante la aplicación del AMN al problema de selección optima de conductores en sistemas de distribución demuestran la eficacia de la metodología de solución propuesta para problemas de programación no lineal entera mixta en ingeniería eléctrica con tamaños exponenciales del espacio de soluciones. Además, los resultados reportados para los sistemas de prueba de 8 y 27 nodos constituyen un punto de referencia para futuras investigaciones.
Essential oils of Origanum compactum Benth: Chemical characterization, in vitro, in silico, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities
Authors: El Abdali Youness , Mahraz Adil M. , Beniaich Ghada , Mssillou Ibrahim , Chebaibi Mohamed , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Lahkimi Amal , Nafidi Hiba-Allah , Aboul-Soud Mourad A. M. , Bourhia Mohammed , Bouia Abdelhak
Published: February 2023

This study was performed to investigate the phytochemical profile, and the, in vitro, and, in silico, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the essential oil (EO) extracted from Origanum compactum. EO phytochemical screening was examined by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The antioxidant potential, in vitro, was assessed using reducing power(FRAP), free 2,2 diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and total antioxidant capacity tests. Antibacterial properties against two Gram (−) and two Gram (+) bacteria were assessed using the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the disc diffusion methods. By use of molecular docking, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of oregano EO were also tested. Thymol (75.53%) was the major compound among the nine compounds identified in the EO of Origanum compactum, followed by carvacrol (18.26%). Oregano EO showed an important antioxidant capacity, as tested by FRAP and DPPH assays, with EC50 and IC50 values of 13.300 ± 0.200 and 0.690 ± 0.062 mg/mL, respectively. The same EO has a total antioxidant capacity of 173.900 ± 7.231 mg AAE/g EO. The antibacterial results showed significant activity of Origanum compactum EO against all tested bacteria, especially against S. aureus (MIC = 0.25 mg/mL) and B. subtilis (MIC = 0.06 mg/mL). In silico, carvacrol was the most active molecule against nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (2CDU) and S. aureus nucleoside diphosphate kinase (3Q8U) with a glide score of −6.082, and −6.039 kcal/mol, respectively. Regarding the inhibition of E. coli beta-ketoacyl-[acyl carrier protein] synthase (1FJ4), piperitenone was the most active molecule with a glide score of −7.112 kcal/mol. In light of the results obtained, the EO of Origanum compactum Moroccan species can be used as promising natural food conservatives and an agent to fight antibiotic-resistant nosocomial microbes.
Highly conformable terahertz metasurface absorbers via two-photon polymerization on polymeric ultra-thin films
Authors: Ottomaniello Andrea , Vezio Paolo , Tricinci Omar , Den Hoed Frank M. , Dean Paul , Tredicucci Alessandro , Mattoli Virgilio
Published: February 2023

The continuously increasing interest in flexible and integrated photonics requires new strategies for device manufacturing on arbitrary complex surfaces and with smallest possible size, respectively. Terahertz (THz) technology can particularly benefit from this achievement to make compact systems for emission, detection and on-demand manipulation of THz radiation. Here, we present a novel fabrication method to realize conformable terahertz metasurfaces. The flexible and versatile character of polymeric nanomembranes is combined with direct laser writing via two-photon polymerization to develop free-standing ultra-thin quasi-perfect plasmonic absorbers with an unprecedentedly high level of conformability. Moreover, revealing new flexible dielectric materials presenting low absorption and permittivity in the THz range, this work paves the way for the realization of ultra-thin, conformable hybrid or all-dielectric devices to enhance and enlarge the application of THz technologies, and flexible photonics in general.
Factors influencing the role and performance of independent agricultural extension workers in supporting agricultural extension
Authors: Indraningsih Kurnia Suci , Ashari A , Syahyuti S , Anugrah Iwan Setiajie , Suharyono Sri , Saptana S , Iswariyadi Arief , Agustian Adang , Purwantini Tri Bastuti , Ariani Mewa , Mardiharini Maesti
Published: February 2023

Extension activities play a significant role in the success of agricultural development programs. Farmers still need agricultural extension workers (EWs) in the form of assistance, technical guidance, and management intensively and continuously. With the limited number of government EWs, the role of independent agricultural extension (IAE) workers has become crucial. In Indonesia, IAE worker has been recognized since 2006, although it has not been effective. This article aims to: (1) identify conditions and characteristics of IAE and (2) analyze the influencing factors on the role of IAE officers in supporting agricultural extension. Data collection was carried out with a structured questionnaire using Google Forms involving 161 respondents. The analysis method uses inferential statistics, namely the structural equation modeling. The results showed that the factors that directly affect the role of IAE workers are work motivation and quantity or workload. The number of IAE workers directly influences their performance. A favorable working environment is required to achieve the ideal role of IAE workers. In addition, improvement of work management, horizontal and vertical relations, and regulations posit IAE workers as an essential part of agricultural extension activities. It is necessary to have a regional regulation that legalizes the allocation of regional budgets as regular incentives to facilitate the activities of agricultural EWs.
Monumentality as traditional ecological knowledge in the northern Maya lowlands
Authors: Fisher Chelsea
Published: February 2023

The emergence of monumentality in the Maya lowlands has been linked to political complexity. But how did the emergence of these monuments relate to changing human-environment interactions? Here, the author proposes that Maya monumentality embodies traditional ecological knowledge, or TEK. Taking the example of Tzacauil, the gathering of fieldstone for the preparation of land for cultivation is connected to agricultural intensification and the florescence of monumentality in the Late and Terminal Formative period (300 BC–AD 250). Exploration of the relationships between monumental traditions and localised TEK practices may illuminate the entanglement of complexity, subsistence and human-environment interactions in other parts of the world.
ENHANCED EFFICIENCY IN SWIFT 100 MeV Ni ION IRRADIATED ZnS QUANTUM DOT SENSITIZED SOLAR CELL
Authors:   Department of Electronics Engineering, Howard College, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban- 4041, South Africa., GANGULY A. , NATH S. S. ,   Cachar College, Silchar-788001, India., SRIVASTAVA V. M. ,   Department of Electronics Engineering, Howard College, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban- 4041, South Africa.
Published: February 2023

The influence of high energy ion beam (swift heavy ion) on ZnS quantum dots used as a sensitizer in a solar cell, is studied in this article. 100MeV Nickel (Ni7+) ion beam is utilized for the irradiation experiment with two doses of 1×1011 ions/cm2 and 2×1011 ions/cm2 . The irradiated quantum dots are deposited as a sensitizing layer on a ZnO photoelectrode solar cell, and Current-density v/s Voltage characteristics is measured under illuminated condition. A higher value of current density is obtained for irradiated samples at a lower dose, while at a higher dose, the current density decreases. In addition, the other solar cell performance parameters are also reported for unirradiated, as well as irradiated quantum dot sensitized solar cells.
EFFECT OF TIN PRECURSORS ON THE DEPOSITION OF Cu2ZnSnS4 THIN FILMS
Authors:   Solar Energy Laboratory, Sree Vidyanikethan Engineering College, Tirupati, India, NAGAMALLESWARI D. ,   Department of Physics, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Ananthapur, Anantapuramu, India, KISHOREKUMAR Y. B. ,   Solar Energy Laboratory, Sree Vidyanikethan Engineering College, Tirupati, India, KIRAN Y. B. ,   Center for Applied Sciences, Sree Vidyanikethan Engineering College, Tirupati, India, SURESHBABU G. ,   Department of Physics, Government Degree College, Pakala, India
Published: February 2023

Cu2ZnSnS4 is a potential compound semiconducting material for solar absorber layer in thin film heterojunction solar cells. Chemical spray pyrolysis technique has been successfully employed to deposit these thin films using two different tin precursors. Thin films were characterized by studying their structural, composition, electrical and optical properties. X-ray diffraction pattern reveals that these films exhibit polycrystalline nature with kesterite structure. Lattice parameters of Cu2ZnSnS4 films are found to be a = b = 0.544 nm and c = 1.084 nm. Optical band gap, evaluated from spectral transmittance data, is close to ideal energy gap (1.5 eV) exhibit highest conversion efficiency. Optical absorption coefficient of these films is ≥ 104 cm-1 . These films exhibit p-type nature. A humble attempt is made to fabricate a typical heterojunction Cu2ZnSnS4 thin film solar cell.
IMPACT OF CADMIUM SALT CONCENTRATION ON CdS NANOPARTICLES SYNTHESIZED BY CHEMICAL PRECIPITATION METHOD
Authors:   Department of Electrical Electronic & Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, NAJM A. S. , CHOWDHURY M. S. ,   Environmental Assessment and Technology for Hazardous Waste Management Research Center, Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, HatYai 90110, Thailand, MUNNA F. T. ,   Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, CHELVANATHAN P. ,   Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, SELVANATHAN V. ,   Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, AMINUZZAMAN M. ,   Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Perak Campus, Jalan Universiti, Bnadar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak D. R., Malaysia, TECHATO K. ,   Center of Excellence on Hazardous Substance Management (HSM), Bangkok, 10330, Thailand, AMIN N. ,   Department of Electrical Electronic & Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia,   Institute of Sustainable Energy, Universiti Tenaga Nasional (@The National Energy University), Jalan IKRAM-UNITEN, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia, AKHTARUZZAMAN MD. ,   Department of Electrical Electronic & Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia,   Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: February 2023

In this study, cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via chemical precipitation, a facile and cost effective method. The effects of various cadmium salt concentration on the characteristics of CdS NPs has been analyzed to understand the structure properties relationship for optoelectronics applications. XRD, FESEM, Raman Spectra, and UV–Vis has been used to characterize the prepared samples. The optical measurement indicates that there is a direct transition in accordance to energy band gap among 2.36 as well as 2.4 eV. The XRD diffract grams verify that all the films deposited have been polycrystalline of cubic as well as hexagonal structure with superior orientation (111). Analysis of EDX displayed that certain films have been stoichiometric with a small deficiency in sulphur. By optimizing the molar concentration of cadmium ions, the optoelectronic properties of the CdS NPs can be tuned accordingly.
HYDROTHERMAL SYNTHESIS OF THE FLOWER-LIKE MoS2 NANOSHEETS MICROSPHERES AND ITS PHOTOCATALYTIC DEGRADATION OF METHYL ORANGE
Authors:   School of Information Science, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China, LIANG L. , MO Z. ,   School of Biomedical Engineering, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China, LI N. ,   School of Information Science, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China, LIU H. ,   School of Information Science, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China, FENG G. ,   School of Material and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China, WEI A. ,   School of Information Science, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China,   School of Material and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
Published: February 2023

The flower-like MoS2 microspheres were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method using Na2MoO4·2H2O, C2H2O4·2H2O, SC(NH2)2 and de-ionized water as precursors. The morphology and crystal structure of the MoS2 microspheres were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The as-prepared MoS2 microspheres were used as a catalyst for photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange. The effect of the size of the MoS2 microspheres and catalyst dosage amount on photocatalytic activity were investigated. The results indicate that the MoS2 powder consists of the flower-like nanosheet microspheres formed by several nanosheets gathered together perpendicular to the spherical surface, and the diameter of the MoS2 microspheres decreases with increasing the concentration of oxalic acid in the precursor. The MoS2 microspheres are with hexagonal 2H-MoS2 structure and preferentially grow along the (002) plane. It is found that the best photocatalytic degradation efficiency is 79.0% within irradiation time of 120 min under MoS2 dosage amount of 1.33 g/L and methyl orange concentration of 20mg/L.
EFFECT OF DOPING CONCENTRATION ON THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF NANOCRYSTALLINE Zn DOPED PbS THIN FILMS DEPOSITED BY CBD METHOD
Authors:   Department of Physics. D. M. College of Science, Imphal-795001, Manipur (India), SINGH L. R. , HUSSAIN M. A. ,   Department of Physics, Imphal College, Imphal-795001, Manipur(India)
Published: February 2023

Nanocrystalline PbS and Zn doped PbS thin films have been deposited on glass substrates by chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. The as deposited thin films were found to be crystalline having cubic phase structure. The optical properties of the undoped and Zn doped PbS thin film have been studied. The chemically prepared Zn doped and undoped nanocrystalline PbS films have high absorbance in the UV-visible region. The linear nature of (αhν)2 vs (hν) plots of PbS thin films confirmed that the transition is direct and the optical band gap energy of PbS films is found to increase from 1.90 eV to 2.28 eV with decreasing crystallite size from 29 nm to 15 nm and these obtained band gap values are higher than the bulk value (0.40 eV). The increase in optical band gap supports the quantum confinement effect in the PbS thin films prepared by CBD technique. The optical band gap of Zn doped PbS films are found to increase with increase in dopant concentrations.
FACILE SYNTHESIS AND GROWTH MECHANISM OF TRIGONAL SELENIUM NANOWRIES
Authors:   Department of Electronic Engineering East China Normal University No. 500, Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, P. R. China, LEI W. B. , XU W. Q. ,   Department of Electronic Engineering East China Normal University No. 500, Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, P. R. China, Qi R. J. ,   Department of Electronic Engineering East China Normal University No. 500, Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, P. R. China, HUANG R. ,   Department of Electronic Engineering East China Normal University No. 500, Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, P. R. China
Published: February 2023

Trigonal selenium (t-Se) nanowires were fabricated via a facile solution-phase approach at room temperature. Time-dependent experiments were designed to explore the mechanism of the transition of a-Se to t-Se both in solution and in solid phases. It was found that the extended spiral chains of selenium atoms in the trigonal phase provided a natural template to define and guide the growth direction. The transition of a-Se to t-Se nanowire can happen not only in a solid-solution-solid process, but also in a solid to solid process. The synthesis method will provide a new approach for research on its performance.
EFFECT OF Sn INCORPORATION ON STRUCTURAL, PHYSICAL AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF Ge-Se-Sb-Sn THIN FILMS
Authors:   Center of advanced study in Physics, Department of Physics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, 160014, KANG J. , KOTNALA R. K. ,   CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K. S. Krishnan Road, New Delhi, India, 110012, TRIPATHI S. K. ,   Center of advanced study in Physics, Department of Physics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, 160014
Published: February 2023

The present work reports the analysis of physical, structural and electrical properties alongwiththeir compositional dependence for (Ge20Se80)90-xSb10Snx (x = 2, 4, 6, 10 at %) chalcogenide glassy system. XRDspectra show the amorphous nature of the prepared samples with the possibility of short-range ordering in the samples. Chemically ordered network model, consistent with (8− N) rule, has been utilizedin estimating various physical parameters which reveals that Ge-Se-Sb-Sn glassy systems are thermally stable glasses. The current transport mechanisms have been investigated as a function of temperature in the temperature range 293 K− 363 K revealing thatthe dc-conduction occurs through an activated process with single activation energy. Meyer-Neldel rule is found to be obeyed. The present study suggests Ge-Se-Sb-Sn glassy system to be an optimal material for utilization in optical devices.
Mechanical stability parameters of chalcogenides and pnictides based optoelectronic materials
Authors:   Department of Physics, B. S. A. College, Mathura 281004, India, Gupta R. C. , Varshney P. ,   Department of Physics, G.G.I.C., Iglas 202124, India, Pravesh  ,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, KIET Groups of Institutions, Ghaziabad 201206, India, Lal M. ,   Department of Physics, Government Degree College, Una, Himachal Pradesh 174303, India, Kumar D. ,   Department of Chemical Engineering, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan 304022, Indi, Singh K. ,   Department of Physics, B. S. A. College, Mathura 281004, India, Verma A. S. ,   Division of Research & Innovation, School of Applied and Life Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Uttarakhand, Dehradun 248007, India
Published: February 2023

A study of experimental data reveals that the bulk modulus of chalcogenides and pnictides based chalcopyrites (AIIBIVC2 V and AI BIIIC2 VI) can be explained by a simple scaling rule that rely only on the crystal ionicity, ionic charge product, and the melting temperature. PVV theory of crystal ionicity, temperature dependence of elasticity and product of ionic charge theory are taken into account for the study. Based on this result, a simple microhardnessbulk modulus relation is applied to evaluate the microhardness of the complex compounds; which correspond well with the experimental data and other published results. The proposed findings support in the modeling of emerging semiconductor materials and even understanding of their mechanical properties for optoelectronics, photovoltaic, electromagnetic (EM) screening, and spintronic applications. PACS: 62.20.-x; 62.20.Qp
Tuned optoelectronic and thermoelectric properties of TIMX2 through M=Ga,In X=S,Se,Te intercalation
Authors:   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Ur Rahman I. , Khalid M. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Aamer M. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Ali F. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Javed M. U. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Rafiq Q. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Basic and applied Sciences, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Jawad M. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Raouf Qureshi T. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Irfan M. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Basic and applied Sciences, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Azam S. ,   Department of Physics, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
Published: February 2023

We presents our analysis on structural electronic and optical properties of TlX and TlMX2 (M =In, Ga; X = Te, Se, S) compound, by first principle density functional theory (DFT).These chalcogenide have a place with a group of the low-dimensionals semiconductors having chains or layered design. They are of critical interested as a result of, their exceptionally anisotropics properties, semiconductivity and photoconductivity, non direct impacts in their IV qualities (counting a district of negatived differentials opposition), exchanging and memories impacts, secondly symphonious opticals age, relaxors conduct and possible application for optoelectronics devices. We reviews the crystals structured of TlMX2 compound, their transports properties below surrounding condition, test and hypothetical investigations of the electronics construction, transports properties and semiconductors metal phased transition below highly tension, and successions of temperature instigated primary phased transition with middle disproportionate state. Electronics natured of the ferroelectrics phased transition in the previously mentione mixes, just as arelaxors conduct, nano domain and conceivable event of quantums specks in dopeds and illuminated precious crystals are examined.
Numerical simulation of the effect of gradual substitution of sulfur with selenium or tin with germanium in Cu2ZnSnS4 absorber layer on kesterite solar cell efficiency
Authors:   Laboratory of Thin Films and Applications, Mohamed Khider University. Algeria, Messei N. , Aida M. S. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia, Attaf A. ,   Laboratory of Thin Films and Applications, Mohamed Khider University. Algeria, Hamani N. ,   Laboratory of Thin Films and Applications, Mohamed Khider University. Algeria, Laznek S.
Published: February 2023

To enhance the efficiency of kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cell, different gradient strategies are investigated. Absorber layer gradient is obtained by partial substitution of sulfur with selenium or tin with germanium. The PV Parameters are calculated using the SCAPS1D program. The effect of the front, back, and double gradient on the cell parameters was investigated. We proposed also the fully graded gap absorber layer profile. The opencircuit voltage has increased to 1.040V, the fill factor has increased to 71.69%, and the efficiency has exceeded 22.95%. In contrast to other types of gradients, the short-circuit current density remains high (Jsc= 39.7mA / cm2 ).
Structural, optical, and photocatalytic activity of ZnS:Er nanoparticles
Authors:   Department of Electronic Engineering, Gangneung-Wonju National Univeristy, Gangneung, 25457, South Korea, Poornaprakash B. , Puneetha P. T. ,   Department of Robotics and Intelligent Machine Engineering/College of Mechanical and IT Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea, Reddy M. S. P. ,   Advanced Material Research Center, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi-39177, South Korea, Kim Y. L. ,   Department of Electronic Engineering, Gangneung-Wonju National Univeristy, Gangneung, 25457, South Korea
Published: February 2023

ZnS and Er (2 at%) doped ZnS nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized through coprecipitation process. EDAX analysis confirmed that the presence of Er (III) ions in the prepared sample with an anticipated stoichiometry. TEM analyses displayed that the prepared NPs showed near spheroid shapes with an average size ranging from 4.8 to 5.2 nm. XRD measurements confirmed the authentic incorporation of Er (III) ions in the ZnS lattice. DRS measurements certified that Er (III) doping declines the ZnS bandgap from 3.72 to 3.56 eV. Magnetic measurements revealed that the Er-doped ZnS NPs displayed soft ferromagnetism and became better at higher doping concentrations. The Er (2 at%) doped ZnS NPs exhibited a higher rhodamine B dye degradation rate than the ZnS. Hence, the Er doped ZnS NPs are promising materials for dye degradation and optoelectronics.
Studying the effect of copper on the p-ZnTe/n-AgCuInSe2/p-Si for thin films solar cell applications
Authors:   Department of physics, College of Education for Pure Science / Ibn Al-Haitham, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq, Athab R. H. , Hussein B. H. ,   Department of physics, College of Education for Pure Science / Ibn Al-Haitham, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2023

A thin film of AgInSe2 and Ag1-xCuxInSe2 as well as n-Ag1-xCuxInSe2 /p-Si heterojunction with different Cu ratios (0, 0.1, 0.2) has been successfully fabricated by thermal evaporation method as absorbent layer with thickness about 700 nm and ZnTe as window layer with thickness about 100 nm. We made a multi-layer of p-ZnTe/n-AgCuInSe2/p-Si structures, In the present work, the conversion efficiency (η) increased when added the Cu and when used p-ZnTe as a window layer (WL) the bandgap energy of the direct transition decreases from 1.75 eV (Cu=0.0) to 1.48 eV (Cu=0.2 nm) and the bandgap energy for ZnTe=2.35 eV. The measurements of the electrical properties for prepared films showed that the D.C electrical conductivity (σd.c) increased with increasing Cu content for AgCuInSe2 thin films. So the electrical conductivity changed from 1 (Ω.cm)-1 to 29.96 (Ω.cm)-1 when x changed from 0.0 to 0.2. The prepared thin films have two activation energies (Ea1 & Ea2) in the temperature ranges of (300-393) K and (303-473) K. The C-V measurements revealed that all prepared heterojunctions were of the abrupt type and the junction capacitance reduced while the width of depletion region and the built-in potential increased with increasing the Cooper content. The current-voltage characteristics under dark condition of AgCuInSe2 heterojunctions, the current-voltage measurements under illumination showed that the performance of heterojunction solar cell improved with increasing Cu content. The result indicated that the prepared solar cell with 0.2 Ag content exhibited the highest efficiency (η = 1.68%) compared to other prepared solar cells.
Novel one pot synthesis of curcumin quantum dots for non-enzymatic highly sensitive and selective detection of dopamine
Authors:   Centre for Nanoscience and Technology, Anna University, Chennai-600025, Tamil Nadu, India, Iffath B. , Renjithkumar R. ,   Centre for Nanoscience and Technology, Anna University, Chennai-600025, Tamil Nadu, India, Devasena T. ,   Centre for Nanoscience and Technology, Anna University, Chennai-600025, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: February 2023

This is the first report on the exploration of the electrocatalytic performance of curcumin quantum dots synthesized by a novel method for nonenzymatic, highly sensitive and selective detection of dopamine. The study was carried out in the presence of high concentrations of its potential neurological interferents having similar oxidation potential to represent real physiological conditions. This proposed novel sensor showed good sensitivity of 14.28 µA nM-1 cm-2 in the linear range of 0.05 nM to 1 nM, with very low detection limit (0.002 nM) and quantification limit (0.006 nM), which has not been attained by other sensing systems so far.
Water remediation capability of cubic-phase CdS nanoparticles as photocatalyst on photodegradation of aqueous rhodamine 6G dye under UV irradiation
Authors:   Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia, Aziz N. A. , Sheng C. K. ,   Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia, Jie H. J. ,   Atomic M&E Sdn Bhd, 5A, Jalan Seri Orkid 33, Taman Seri Orkid, 81300 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
Published: February 2023

Cubic-phase cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles were formulated through dropwise precipitation. XRD analysis shows that the CdS has an average nanocrystallite size of approximately 3.36 nm. FTIR results reveals that a strong band appeared around 600 cm-1 is due to Cd-S bonds. SEM image demonstrates that many tiny spherical nanoparticles are homogeneously distributed on the sample surface. The CdS nanoparticles show a prominent UV-Vis absorption peak at 506 nm with a direct band gap of 2.24 eV. CdS nanoparticles has induced remarkable photobleaching effect on the highly stable R6G dye solution under UV illumination, which is applicable for future wastewater treatment.
Effect of Y-doped TiO2(B)/SnO2 1D structured nanocomposite on the performance and capacity of lithium-ion batteries
Authors:   Center of Excellence in Metal and Materials Engineering (CEMME), Faculty of Engineering, Prince of Songkla University, 90112, Songkhla, Thailand, Choopool P. , Rachpech V. ,   Center of Excellence in Metal and Materials Engineering (CEMME), Faculty of Engineering, Prince of Songkla University, 90112, Songkhla, Thailand, Khangkhamano M. ,   Center of Excellence in Metal and Materials Engineering (CEMME), Faculty of Engineering, Prince of Songkla University, 90112, Songkhla, Thailand
Published: February 2023

Because traditional graphite anode for Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has low coulombic efficiency, high irreversible capacity and large volume expansion which can no longer satisfy the requirements of high-performance batteries. This article therefore presented the development of an anode material based on structural design to enhance its properties. One-dimension structured nanocomposites of yttrium-doped TiO2(B) nanowires/ SnO2 nanotubes were synthesised at various yttrium concentrations via hydrothermal method. Phase composition, crystal structure, morphologies, and electrochemical properties were evaluated to study the effects of the dopant on performance and capacity of the LIBs. XRD showed the modification in crystalline size and lattice parameters when yttrium was introduced. Electrochemical properties were markedly enhanced by the yttrium-doped nanocomposites, especially for the one with 0.5%mole yttrium (TSY50). The TSY50 offered the highest diffusion coefficient of 2.34×10-10 cm2 /s, reduced the Li-ion diffusion length and the cell resistance, improved the specific capacity, cycle performance and capacity retention, as demonstrated by cycling tests. The prepared yttrium-doped nanocomposite could be considered as a promising material for its application as an anode in LIBs.
Electron confinement enhancement in AlGaN/AlN/GaN HEMT using BGaN buffer
Authors:   Laboratory of Micro-Electronics and Nanostructures (LMON), University of Monastir, College of Sciences, 5019 Monastir, Tunisia, Gassoumi M. , Helali A. ,   Laboratory of Micro-Electronics and Nanostructures (LMON), University of Monastir, College of Sciences, 5019 Monastir, Tunisia, Gassoumi M. ,   Laboratory of Condensed Matter and Nanoscience, College of Science, 5019Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia, Elleuch Z. ,   Community College, University Of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia, Boughdiri N. ,   Chemical Engineering Department, College Of Engineering, University Of Ha’il, SaudiArabia, Guesmi H. ,   Civil Engineering Department, College Of Engineering, College Of Engineering, University Of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia, Rejab S. ,   Laboratory Of Metrology And Energy Systems, Monastir, University Of Monastir, Tunisia, Maaref H. ,   Laboratory of Micro-Electronics and Nanostructures (LMON), University of Monastir, College of Sciences, 5019 Monastir, Tunisia
Published: February 2023

When the AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) is strongly biased, the speed of the electrons in the channel increases, which leads to an injection of electrons into the buffer, and consequently the appearance of the "short channel effect" phenomenon, which limits the performance of the component to overcome this effect and increase the power/frequency performance of the component, one solution consists in using a confinement barrier. This involves placing an electrostatic barrier under the GaN channel so as to block the injection of electrons into the buffer layer when the transistor is highly biased, and a BGaN confinement barrier because this semiconductor has very interesting physical properties, as well as better electrical isolation between the well and the substrate thanks to the optimization of the buffer. In this paper, the main objective is to study the effect of adding BGaN confinement barrier and its influence on transistor performance.
T‐cell antigen recognition: catch‐as‐catch‐can or catch‐22?
Authors: Huppa Johannes B , Schütz Gerhard J
Published: February 2023

T‐cell antigen recognition is invariably affected by tensile forces as they are exerted on T‐cell antigen receptors (TCRs) transiently binding antigenic peptide/MHC complexes. In this issue of The EMBO Journal, Pettmann and colleagues promote the concept that forces reduce the lifetime of more stable stimulatory TCR‐pMHC interactions to a larger extent than that of less stable non‐stimulatory TCR‐pMHC interactions. The authors argue that forces impede rather than boost T‐cell antigen discrimination, which is promoted by force‐shielding within the immunological synapse through cell adhesion via CD2/CD58 and LFA‐1/ICAM‐1.
Wolna gospodarka i silne państwo: co zawiodło?
Authors:   Uniwersytet Łódzki, Wydział Ekonomiczno-Socjologiczny, Ząbkowicz Anna
Published: February 2023

Purpose – The article elaborates on an ordoliberal idea that contradiction between market and the state constitutes a false direction of thinking, and tries to show why it is so, in particular, when combating economic crisis is at stake. Research method – This is a review of literature authored by leaders of the ordoliberal stream of thought. Contents have been organized around the fundamental ordoliberal premise that free economy and strong state are intertwined and dependent on each other. Results – Reconstruction of an ordoliberal position is helpful since it creates an interesting perspective on the international economic and financial crisis of 2008–2009. It reveals that after the crisis private economic power has not been constrained, which constitutes an obstacle to free economy, while the state has not become capable of withstanding rival social groups which means it is continuously weak. Originality/value/implications/recommendations – The considerations presented overcome “market-state” dichotomy which was constituted as common wisdom thanks to mainstream economics. This is a unique attitude which is rather absent in Poland despite ordoliberal economics being reflected in economic policies as a theory of social market economy, with SME being referred to in Polish constitution.
Determinanty (nie)przejrzystości finansów samorządowych
Authors:   Politechnika Gdańska, Wydział Zarządzania i Ekonomii, Jastrzębska Maria
Published: February 2023

Purpose – The aim of the article is to identify the determinants of transparency of local government finance and to indicate which of them positively and negatively affect its level, with particular emphasis on the situation in Poland. Research method – The article is theoretical in nature, based on a review of the literature on the subject in economics and finance, organisation and management, and sociology. The method of descriptive analysis and comparative analysis was used. Results – The role of local government reporting as a source of useful information is restricted. The flow of information about the condition of self-government finance and communal assets between the self-government authorities and the inhabitants is limited. Frequent changes in the legal regulations of self-government finance increase its opacity. Centralisation of public finance limits the financial independence of the local government and negatively affects the transparency of its finance. Originality/value/implications/recommendations – Studies on the evaluation of transparency of local government finance in Poland are rarely undertaken. Attention was paid to the supply-side and demand-side approaches to transparency in local government finance. Determinants of financial transparency of local government units were identified in their further environment (macro-environment) in the socio-cultural, political-legal, economic dimension, and in their closer environment (micro-environment) in the institutional dimension.
Wrażliwość budżetów publicznych i prywatnych na kryzys spowodowany pandemią COVID-19 na przykładzie polskiej gospodarki
Authors:   Uniwersytet Jana Kochanowskiego w Kielcach, Wydział Prawa i Nauk Społecznych, Zbroińska Barbara
Published: February 2023

Purpose – To demonstrate the interdependence and assess the sensitivity of private and public budgets to the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Research method – The method of quantitative and qualitative analysis of statistical data on household budgets, corporate finances and state and local government budgets was applied. The strength of the impact of the crisis was assessed on the basis of the difference in the dynamics of variables characterising budgets after the first year of the crisis compared to the year before the crisis. Results – Pandemic crisis has put greater strain on public budgets. Personal income tax revenues are the most sensitive to the crisis. Public budgets show a larger negative difference in revenue dynamics during the crisis than private budgets. The burden on the state budget consists of lower tax revenues and discretionary fiscal policy during the crisis. The strong impact of the behavioural factor is demonstrated by the significant increase in the dynamics of household savings. Originality/value/implications/recommendations – The article presents the author’s assessment of the distribution of the burden of the effects of the crisis between public and private budgets.
The EU-China trade in goods in the years 2004–2020 – is the EU exploiting its comparative advantage?
Authors:   Wydział Ekonomii, Uniwersytet Ekonomiczny w Katowicach, Fronczek Małgorzata
Published: February 2023

Purpose – The study aims to identify the EU’s and China’s comparative advantage in reciprocal trade and indicate the relations between the structure of this trade and such advantage. Research method – The study used Balassa’s Revealed Comparative Advantage index (RCA), which shows the competitive position in the exports of particular commodities compared to a selected partner. The calculations were based on 2004–2020 data, obtained from the UN Comtrade Database. Results – The results show that in the years under examination the EU-China bilateral trade followed a trend unfavourable for the EU (with an increasing negative balance). The most important commodities were machinery and equipment and they manifested a negative change for the EU. It meant that at the beginning of the analysed period (2004–2006) the EU had a comparative advantage in their exports, which was lost in 2007 and had not been regained by the end of the analysed years. Despite this change, machinery and equipment remained the dominant group of goods exported by the EU to China. Originality/value/implications/recommendations – The answer to the question posed in the title is that in bilateral trade China makes better use of its comparative advantage in exports, while the European Union has the imports structure that is more compatible with its comparative advantage. The EU countries shape the structure of their imports more effectively and, in the vast majority of cases, they purchase goods that they are not competitive with. On the other hand, they definitely underperform as suppliers to the Chinese market, selling goods (mainly machinery and equipment) in which they ceased to be competitive years ago.
The evaluation of the competitive potential and performance of the agricultural sector in the EU countries based on a synthetic index
Authors:   Department of Economics and Agribusiness, Faculty of Agrobioengineering, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Jarosz-Angowska Aneta , Kasztelan Armand ,   Department of Economics and Agribusiness, Faculty of Agrobioengineering, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Kołodziej Elżbieta ,   Department of Economics and Agribusiness, Faculty of Agrobioengineering, University of Life Sciences in Lublin
Published: February 2023

Purpose – This paper presents the results of an assessment of the aggregated competitiveness of the agricultural sector in the EU member states. The authors sought answers to the following questions: What is the general level of competitiveness of the agricultural sector in the European Union? Which countries are leaders in the EU and which are outsiders in this area? Research method – The analyses were based on a set of intentionally selected multi-criteria indicators and taxonomic methods. An aggregated Competitiveness Index (CI) was designed, which allowed evaluating and classifying EU countries into categories in terms of the studied phenomenon. The analysis draws upon data derived from the World Bank’s and Eurostat statistical databases, and the assessment covered two years – 2004 and 2018. Results – The mean CI in 2018 for all the evaluated countries was 0.1701, while in the base year it was 0.1942, which means that in the analysed years the general competitiveness level of agricultural sectors in the EU member states declined. Considering the possible range of CI (0.1), this level was very low in both analysed years. The general competitiveness level fell due to: the reduced use of fertilisers, decrease in the relative export orientation, smaller area of arable land and a decline in employment in agriculture. Originality/value/implications/recommendations – The analysis of the agricultural sector presented in this paper, using a comprehensive index, is the approach that has not been previously applied, taking into account the selection of the components of a comprehensive index, which was made on the basis of the literature studies. The proposed index allowed classifying the countries of the European Union according to both their resources and performance in production and trade in the agricultural sector and comparing the position they occupied in 2004 and in 2018.