National Defence University, Pakistan

About: National Defence University, Pakistan is a education organization based out in Islamabad, Pakistan. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Context (language use) & Decision support system. The organization has 802 authors who have published 816 publications receiving 3701 citations. The organization is also known as: National Defence University of Pakistan & National Defence University Islamabad.

Studies on graphene zinc-oxide nanocomposites photoanodes for high-efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract: A dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) using a nanocomposite (NC) semiconductor film, consisting of graphene layer and ZnO nanosheets (Gr-ZnO) is fabricated by electrodeposition process. The DSSCs based on Gr-ZnO NC were determined via electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS), UV–Visible diffused reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and photovoltaic performances J-V curves to substantiate the explanations. Impedance spectra shows that a smaller charge transport time constant occurs in DSSCs based on Gr-ZnO NC comparing to ZnO. This improved the electron collecting efficiency significantly, resulting in high open circuit voltage. Moreover, Gr-ZnO NC shows an efficient photoinduced charge separation and transportation can be achieved at the interface thus exhibit excellent potential for photocurrent generation compared with sole ZnO. Gr-ZnO NC obtained a maximum photocurrent response for an open-circuit voltage and a power conversion efficiency of 0.96 V and 7.01% respectively, which is doubled from sole ZnO. Th...

Impact Response of Multi-Grooved Square Column

Abstract: This work aims to determine the response and impact energy absorbing capability of the square hollow section (SHS) column with U-shape grooves, subjected to dynamic mid span loading. Geometrical parametric study i.e. width and depth of the grooves and spacing between grooves was carried out using non-linear explicit finite element package ABAQUS. Comparison between plain SHS column with grooved SHS column in terms of initial peak force (IPF), specific energy absorption (SEA) and crush force efficiency (CFE) was carried out. It was found that the depth and width of the groove and spacing between grooves have significant effect on the impact response of SHS column. The grooved column has a higher SEA, shorter crushing distance but slightly lower CFE as compared to the plain column. This would make the grooved column a better option when designing for side intrusion protection.

Harmonizing Interoperability – Emergent Serious Gaming in Playful Stochastic CAD Environments

Abstract: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) applications often promote memorable experiences for the wrong reasons. Coupled with complex functionality and poor user experience the learning curve is often steep and overwhelming. Invoking design creativity remains limited to conveying established geometry. Gameplay conversely excels in memorable and formative experiences and could spur intuition and natural creativity. If games are profoundly imbued for purposeful play, thriving on tacit and explicit user knowledge, a CAD system carefully stylized with ludic mechanisms could potentially be highly productive. An emergent serious game (SG) and CAD system may then hold promise. Preliminary feedbacks suggest a game-CAD environment incorporating interoperable mechanisms of CAD and SG systems to exchange creation improves user interactions resulting in better evolution of the workflow. The emerging scenarios presented reports a transformative approach to understanding of relationships in CAD use, learning and play mechanisms that enhance creativity and innovation.

Concept for the Construction of High Security Environment in Public Authority Cloud

Abstract: The economical pressure decreases budgets in the public sector which in turn increases the pressure for developing novel innovations to ensure adequate computational capabilities and resources in every operative scenario. Total costs of ownership prevent the construction of datacenters which are capable enough when the requirements for computational capabilities are greatest. In this paper, we propose a concept for the evaluation, standardization and deployment of cloud environments and public networks in order to dynamically extend the high security public cloud environment.

Examining Gaps between Students' Expectations and Experiences in a Private University

Abstract: This study examined students’ expectations and experiences of academic and social life in a private university This study employed a survey research design in which a set of fixed-response and open-ended questionnaire has been used The questionnaire contains five main areas, namely (1) conducive campus facilities and learning environment; (2) good support services; (3) attractive co-curricular activities; (4) positive socio-relationship with university staff and lecturers; and (5) socio-relationship with local community A total number of 540 university students were randomly selected to participate in this study Numeric data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics Narrative data collected was used to expand the views regarding the areas explored Results indicated that there is a significant difference between students’ expectations and their experiences with regards to the academic qualities and social life Results in this study revealed that most of the students’ expectations were not met This is alarming for the survival of private universities as it would affect the university’s reputation and students’ unwillingness to recommend for others This study also found that improvement on campus facilities and socio-interaction with university staff are the most important aspects for students Therefore, a prompt action to improve and upgrade those aspects is vital This paper recommends a specific action to overcome gaps between expectations and experiences by using a holistic approach DOI: 105901/mjss2014v5n8p396