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Binary NiO-Fe 2 O 3 , NiO-CdO nanocomposites, and ternary NiO-Fe 2 O 3 -CdO nanocomposite are synthesized using facile co-precipitation method, and their photocatalytic and antibacterial properties are studied. The as-obtained products are characterized using different analytical techniques. The microstructural parameters were calculated using X-ray diffraction data. UV–vis spectra technique was used to calculate the bandgap and listed 3.1, 2.7, and 2.5 eV for NiO-Fe 2 O 3 , NiO-CdO, and NiO-Fe 2 O 3 -CdO nanocomposite, respectively. The photocatalytic activity of as-obtained products was tested under visible light against methylene blue (MB) dye. The NiO-Fe 2 O 3 -CdO nanocomposite has shown higher degradation efficiency as compared to binary nanocomposites and revealed improve electron–hole separation efficiency. The photocatalytic performance of NiO-Fe 2 O 3 -CdO nanocomposite was also tested for other synthetic dyes such as rhodamine-B (RhB), methyl orange (MO), and cresol red (CR). The antibacterial performance of grown products was tested against E. coli bacteria. The ternary NiO-Fe 2 O 3 -CdO nanocomposite has shown higher antibacterial activity than binary NiO-Fe 2 O 3 and NiO-CdO nanocomposites.

This study examines the relationship between dynamic capabilities (DCs) and environmental performance (EP) in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan, focusing on the key dimensions of sensing, seizing, and reconfiguration. Additionally, it explores the mediating role of environmental innovation (EI) and the moderating effect of female leadership on this relationship.A quantitative research approach was employed, using a structured questionnaire distributed among male and female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), senior management personnel, and executives in high-tech SMEs. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to assess the relationships between DCs, environmental innovation, and environmental performance.The findings indicate that seizing capabilities significantly enhances environmental performance, with a one-point increase leading to a 0.282-point improvement. Similarly, reconfiguration contributes positively, with a one-point increase resulting in a 0.227-point improvement. Both process innovation (path coefficient = 0.384, p = 0.001) and product innovation (path coefficient = 0.157, p = 0.043) positively influence environmental performance. However, female leadership did not exhibit a significant direct effect on environmental performance. Notably, female moderators negatively impacted the relationship between process innovation and environmental performance (-0.328), suggesting that in lower hierarchical positions, female inclusion may reduce the effectiveness of process innovation in achieving sustainability goals.The study provides empirical evidence on the role of dynamic capabilities and environmental innovation in enhancing sustainability in high-tech SMEs. It highlights the need for firms to strengthen their seizing and reconfiguration capabilities to improve environmental performance. Additionally, eco-innovation should be encouraged, and gender diversity in leadership should be strategically considered when designing innovation and sustainability strategies. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and industry practitioners aiming to foster sustainable business practices in high-tech SMEs in Pakistan.

Controllable release of nutrients in soil can overcome the environmental problems associated with conventional fertilizer. Here we synthesized mesoporous nanocomposite of Zinc aluminosilicate (ZnAl 2 Si 10 O 24 ) via co-precipitation method. Oryza sativa L. husk was used as source of silica for making the synthesis process green and economical. The nanocomposite was subsequently loaded with urea to achieve the demand of simultaneous and slow delivery of both zinc and urea. The structural characterization of nanocomposite was done by FTIR, XRD, TGA, BET, SEM/EDX and TEM. The release of urea and zinc was investigated with UV–Vis spectrophotometry and atomic absorption spectroscopy, respectively, up to 14 days. It was noted that urea holding capacity of mesoporous ZnAl 2 Si 10 O 24 nanocomposite over long period of time was increased as compared to bulk aluminosilicates, due to its high surface area (193.07 m 2  g −1 ) and small particle size of (64 nm). Urea release was found highest in first 24 h because of excess of adsorption on nanocomposite and least at 14th day. Fertilizer efficiency was checked on Oryza sativa L. in comparison with commercial urea and results showed significantly higher yield in case of urea loaded ZnAl 2 Si 10 O 24 nanocomposite.

We have examined structural, electronic and optical properties of TM-GaO3 (TM = Sc, Ti, Ag) perovskite oxides by means of first Principles study based on density functional theory (DFT). TM represents transition metal elements. To investigate structural properties, exchange correlation potential was determined by employing Full Potential Linearly Augmented Plane Wave (FP-LAPW) technique along with Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof - GeneralizedGradient Approximation (PBE-GGA) functional. Moreover, Hubbard Ueff parameter LDA + U was used to overcome limitations of PBE-GGA functional. All compounds TM-GaO3 (TM = Sc, Ti, Ag) seem semi-conductor in nature because indirect band gap in each case has been observed with energies 1.33 eV, 0.75 eV and 1.95 eV, respectively. Partial density of states (PDOS) analyses portrayed that 3d orbitals of Sc & Ti, 4d orbital of Ag, and 2p orbital of anions contribute mainly to increase electronic conductivity of the studied compounds. Charge density contour plots depicted ionic nature of TM-cations, while, significant sharing of isolines between O and Ga atoms showed covalent character between them. These contours have also confirmed accumulation of charges around O atoms. Optical analysis revealed that the considered perovskite oxides show sharp increase in optical conductivity and absorptivity in higher energy range when energetic photons are incident upon. Remarkably, they displayed poor reflectivity. However, defect states introduced in the band gap region might be due to cations. These composites are suitable for photovoltaics and other optoelectronic applications

Eye-tracking technology has emerged as a valuable tool for evaluating cognitive load in online learning environments. This study investigates the potential of AI-driven consumer behaviour prediction eye-tracking technology to improve the learning experience by monitoring students’ attention and delivering real-time feedback. In our study, we analysed two online lecture videos used in higher education from two institutions: Oxford Business College and Utrecht University. We conducted this analysis to assess cognitive demands in PowerPoint presentations, as this directly affects the effectiveness of knowledge dissemination and the learning process. We utilised a neuromarketing-research consumer behaviour eye-tracking AI prediction software called ‘Predict’, which employs an algorithm constructed on the largest neuroscience database (comprising previous studies conducted on live participants n = 180,000 with EEG and eye-tracking data). The analysis for this study was carried out using the programming language R, followed by a series of t-tests for each video and Pearson’s correlation tests to examine the relationship between ocus and cognitive demand. The findings suggest that AI-powered eye-tracking systems have the potential to transform online learning by providing educators with valuable insights into students’ cognitive processes and enabling them to optimise instructional materials for improved learning outcomes.

The transformation of business and the economy is a key business problem, and its importance was further heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the increased pressure on enterprises. Hence, the digital readiness of their business will likely determine its future competitiveness in the field. Objectives: The paper addresses the issue of digital readiness for business, with the aim of examining similarities and differences in the digital readiness of European Union countries. The main focus is on identifying the changes during the first two years of the pandemic. Methods/Approach: We conducted a factor analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis based on selected indicators. The results revealed some significant differences. Results: While the countries that lead in digital readiness remained the same, there were relatively large differences in the classification of other EU countries. Some countries, such as Latvia or Slovenia, significantly improved in many aspects of digital readiness during the pandemic. On the other hand, Bulgaria and Romania are still included in the same cluster, representing an overall low digital readiness. Conclusion: Enterprises in more developed countries also have a higher level of digital readiness. Although COVID-19 had a positive impact on digital readiness in some less developed countries, the impact is only partial, indicating a need for stronger actions to bridge the digital divide at the EU level. These findings provide a hopeful outlook, suggesting that with the right actions, the digital divide in the EU can be effectively bridged.

Resistance switching characteristics of CeO 2 /Ti/CeO 2 tri-layered films sandwiched between Pt bottom electrode and two different top electrodes (Ti and TaN) with different work functions have been investigated. RRAM memory cells composed of TaN/CeO 2 /Ti/CeO 2 /Pt reveal better resistive switching performance instead of Ti/CeO 2 /Ti/CeO 2 /Pt memory stacks. As compared to the Ti/CeO 2 interface, much better ability of TaN/CeO 2 interface to store and exchange plays a key role in the RS performance improvement, including lower forming/SET voltages, large memory window (~10 2 ) and no significant data degradation during endurance test of >10 4 switching cycles. The formation of TaON thinner interfacial layer between TaN TE and CeO 2 film is found to be accountable for improved resistance switching behavior. Partial charge density of states is analyzed using density functional theory. It is found that the conductive filaments formed in CeO 2 based devices is assisted by interstitial Ti dopant. Better stability and reproducibility in cycle-to-cycle (C2C) resistance distribution and V set /V reset uniformity were achieved due to the modulation of current conduction mechanism from Ohmic in low field region to Schottky emission in high field region.

Impulsive buying is a growing problem in modern society with significant financial and psychological consequences, and it is necessary to examine the mechanisms underlying it. Understanding the mechanisms driving this behavior is crucial. Impulsive buying consists of two key aspects: a cognitive aspect, characterized by a lack of planning and reflection, and an affective aspect, involving emotional responses that can occur before, during, or after a purchase. This study aims to explore the relationship between personality traits, as measured by the HEXACO model, and tendencies toward impulsive buying. Specifically, it examines how the HEXACO traits differentially predict the cognitive and affective components of impulsive buying tendencies. Data were collected from a sample of 420 students, with 32 excluded due to incomplete responses, resulting in a final sample of 388 students (155 men, 233 women) with an average age of 22.8. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that HEXACO personality domains significantly predicted overall impulsive buying tendencies. As expected, Honesty–Humility and Conscientiousness were negatively associated with impulsive buying, while Emotionality and Extraversion positively predicted impulsive buying tendencies. Moreover, Honesty–Humility, Conscientiousness, and Extraversion significantly predicted the cognitive component of impulsive buying, while Honesty–Humility and Emotionality were significant predictors of the affective component. These findings suggest the importance of educating individuals, from an early age, on the negative consequences of impulsive buying, effective money-saving strategies, and the principles of mental accounting.

While the occupation of a train driver can be likened to other transportation professions like truck or bus drivers, it is essential to note that there are distinct hazards exclusive to this role that have a notable impact on the mental and physical well-being of train drivers. The study aims to define personal characteristics, work organisation and work characteristics, professional development and work in general in connection with risk factors among employees who perform the work tasks of train drivers in railway transport.The study on train drivers in Slovenia was conducted with 179 participants, representing 13.3% of the total population of train drivers. The sample was predominantly male and varied in age, most hailing from the Podravska region. The OPSA digital tool was used to analyse risk factors and gauge psychosocial stress across 17 areas, using a questionnaire split into two sections. Data was collected through online and physical surveys, with voluntary and anonymous participation.The study found that the personal characteristics of train drivers do not significantly impact their perception of workplace workload. While professional development factors negatively influenced workload perception, the impact was not statistically significant. However, general work characteristics strongly impact how train drivers perceive their workload. These findings suggest that interventions should focus on modifying general work characteristics to improve train drivers’ work conditions.These findings have important implications for the railway industry. They suggest that interventions aimed at improving the work conditions of train drivers should focus on modifying general work characteristics rather than targeting personal characteristics or professional development factors. Future research should explore these relationships and develop strategies to mitigate the identified risk factors.

The development of efficient energy storage materials is crucial to the future renewable energy infrastructure. In this work, molybdenum disulfide/polypyrrole (MoS 2 /PPy) nanocomposites are synthesized in a facile hydrothermal process, where in situ oxidation polymerization of pyrrole occurs in the presence of MoS 2 suspension, for their use as supercapacitor electrodes. The layered MoS 2 structure serves as 2D conductive skeleton to facilitate the mobility of protons in and out from the nanocomposites, making it easily accessible and shortening the path length for electrolyte ions transport. Further, the electrochemical performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammogram, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge/discharge, electrochemical stability, Ragone plot and cycling process. The MoS 2 /PPy electrode exhibits high specific capacitance of 654Fg −1 and significantly retains its 95% performance after 500 cycles at a current density of 3Ag −1 significantly higher than its pristine counterparts. The improved performance of the hybrid nanocomposites due to layered MoS 2 imparts the necessary space for ions during charge–discharge and stability to polymeric backbone.