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Most of the ferromagnetic shape memory (FSM) Heusler alloys, which are primarily studied in bulk form in the literature, exhibit p-d type hybridization. This study conducts a thorough multidirectional investigation of a strongly d-d hybridized quinary melt-spun annealed ribbon having the composition Ni35Mn34.5Co14Fe1Ti15.5 (NMCFT-1). This off-stoichiometric, polycrystalline FSM, fabricated using the melt-spin technique, exhibits a highly textured microstructure, double magnetic transitions and super-mechanical features mitigating brittleness. It crystallizes in a perfectly B2-type disorder austenite (Pm-3m, space group number 221) phase at room temperature. It has been hypothesized that geometric frustration is the causative factor for this disorder. Curie temperature of austenite phase ( T C A ) between paramagnetic → ferromagnetic state is found to be ∼364.57 K, whereas martensite transformation temperature from weak magnetic martensite state to ferromagnetic austenite state is ∼174.74 K. Calculated moments (effective moment, μ eff = 5.12 μ B ; low-temperature saturation moment, μ S (or M S (0) ) = 5.08 μ B ) yield a Rhodes–Wohlfarth ratio of ∼1, indicating the existence of the non-itinerant nature of 3d electrons, whereas the ferromagnetism and the linear or non-linear dependency of M s 2 (T ) on T 2 around T C A indicates the presence of long-range Rudermann–Kittel–Kasuya–Yosida-type interaction. More importantly, the maximum magnetic entropy change ( Δ S m ) obtained across the first-order magneto-structural transition and second-order magnetic transition are +18.2 J·kg−1K−1 at 6 T and −8.8 J·kg−1K−1 at 2 T, respectively, while a very high working temperature span (Δ T FWHM) of 28.561 K and 6.922 K are found for the same condition. The sample exhibits a significant relative cooling power of 402.98 J·kg−1 at a magnetic field of 6 T across the FOMT and 60.19 J·kg−1 at a 2 T field across the SOMT, respectively, along with excellent mechanical features such as a Vickers hardness (HV) of 411.80 HV (∼4.04 GPa). Meanwhile, Chen's super hard model fails to predict the ribbon's HV value, but Miao's hard model does, indicating that the ribbon is hard but not super hard. It also paves the way for additional investigation into innovative FSMs like this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), the most widely explored transition metal dichalcogenide, is a promising candidate for developing high-performance photodetectors due to having a wide range of electric and optoelectronic properties. However, the controlled synthesis of a highly crystalline large-area MoS2 thin film and the effect of noble metal (Au, Ag) nanoparticles and TM (Co) ion doping on its photoelectrical properties are still challenging. Herein, we report the direct growth of wafer-scale MoS2 thin films utilizing a facile polymer-free approach by a solution-phase coating process, followed by thermal annealing. A systematic study on the photoelectrical properties of the Au-, Ag-, and Co-doped (all variants are in 10 at. wt %) MoS2 photodetectors reveals that the Co-MoS2 device exhibits excellent photoresponse properties, which are also evidenced theoretically. Moreover, the Co-dopant amount is varied (5, 20 at. wt %) to decipher the impact of Co-doping on the photoresponse properties and determine the optimum doping percentage. The highest (20 at. wt %) Co-doped MoS2 photodetector exhibits good photoresponse characteristics at low voltage with minimal noise and high stability (retaining 86% of its photoresponsivity after the 30th day), attributed to the long-lived trap states, the photogating effect, more n-type doping, and generation of more charge carriers. Interestingly, the variations in Co-dopant concentrations lead to tunable photoresponse in different (blue, green, and red) laser illuminations, attributed to the band gap tunability with variable doping. This simple TM doping approach proposed in this study for improving the performance of MoS2 photodetectors can open up an avenue for research for other 2D materials, finding potential applications in photodetection and low-voltage-based operating devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest and landscape restoration is considered worldwide as a powerful approach to recovering ecological functionality and improving human well‐being in degraded and deforested landscapes. A comprehensive study including the social, ecological, management, and regulatory aspects of restoration projects can help to understand the sustainability of these interventions. The purpose of this study was to comprehend the principles of Bangladeshi community‐based forest restoration (CBFR) projects. Empirical data was collected from four CBFR projects, of which two were Bangladesh forest department (BFD)‐led and two were community‐led. We used a comprehensive list of principles covering management and governance issues and human and ecological aspects along with Ostrom's design principles. Data were collected through 223 semi‐structured interviews, four focus group discussions, and personal observation. A 5‐point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree and 5 = strongly agree) was used to assess participants' agreement on different statements of principles. In BFD‐led projects, participants had restricted harvesting rights, state control over management, land, planning, and the formation of rules, and they perceived lower scores for some important statements (e.g., project planning, selection of tree species, local knowledge, income generation activities, livelihood benefits, food security, and skill development). Therefore, participants presumed that these CBFR projects are moderately sustainable. On the other hand, participants in community‐led projects scored high (mean score above 4.0) for most of the principles across different aspects, and a bundle of Ostrom's design principles was also observed. Hence, the evidence of sustainability in community‐led CBFR projects is high. Project authorities in developing countries can take lessons from this study and undertake appropriate actions toward the sustainability of forest restoration programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on a 10 at.% Mn-doped In2O3 magnetic semiconductor. A pyrophoric reaction is adapted for synthesis of the (In0.9Mn0.1)2O3 nanocrystalline dilute magnetic semiconductor (DMS). The single-phase cubic bixbyite nanocrystalline structure of Mn-doped indium oxide is determined from x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Investigation of temperature variation of magnetization shows a phase transition from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic at 830 K. The effective paramagnetic moment (μeff) ~ 2.32 μB/formula unit is evaluated from the inverse susceptibility [χ−1(T)] versus temperature plot. Indirect exchange interaction is mediated by spin-polarized (delocalized) conduction band electrons between two localized spins of magnetic ions (Mn3+), leading to ferromagnetism in the specimen. The optical absorption spectrum provides information about the direct allowed band gap (Eg) of (In0.9Mn0.1)2O3 nanocrystalline magnetic semiconductor which is estimated as 4.12 eV. Enhancement of the optical band gap (Eg = 4.12 eV) obtained from the optical absorption spectrum is most likely due to the quantum confinement effect of the nanocrystalline system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas (PA) co-management can offer equitable benefits from global to local level. Therefore, social equity has come out as a vital goal in PA co-management for ethical and instrumental reasons. In the Bangladesh context, however, social equity issues have been less studied in PA co-management. This study was conducted in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh, and we evaluated social equity as multidimensional concepts of recognitional, procedural and distributional equity. We employed mixed approaches, including 122 structured interviews using a 5-point Likert scale, 15 key informants interview and 4 focus group discussions to collect data on equity perception. Mean and frequency (percent) were calculated and generalized linear models were performed to analyze the predictor's influence on equity perception. The results showed that recognitional equity was perceived high, while procedural and distributional equity perceived moderate and low. Findings would be useful for policy makers in framing policies towards equitable PA co-management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the value chain and profitability of underutilized crops is critical to increasing their cultivation in developing countries. This study examines value chain maps and economic performance of three potentially important underutilized crops in Southeastern Sri Lanka: finger millet (Eleusine coracana), cashew (Anacardium occidentale), and red cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). In Sri Lanka, the value chains or profitability of these underutilized crops have not yet been examined. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Farmers primarily cultivate finger millet and red cowpea in chena (shifting cultivation land), but cashew is the dominant crop in home gardens. They mostly grow crops with their own seeds, little fertilizer, and with family labor. Farmers sell approximately 85% of their red cowpea and 60% of finger millet directly to urban wholesalers, whereas cashew is sold through collectors/middlemen. When unpaid family labor costs are excluded, the net annual income from finger millet is significantly higher than that of red cowpea and cashew. At the farmer level, value addition to products is lacking, resulting in a low return on investment. We advocate for the formation of farmer organizations and the provision of necessary institutional support (e.g., technical and financial) for value addition to underutilized crops in order to increase net returns and improve socioeconomic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the deposition of a polycrystalline thin film of a noble promising alloy Ti2CoSi (TCS) on a p-Si substrate has been reported, and its spin gapless semiconducting characteristics have been investigated experimentally. The structural, magnetic, and electronic transport features of the TCS film have been investigated in detail followed by its implementation as a ferromagnetic tunnel contact for proficient spin accumulation into a semiconductor employing both conventional three-terminal and non-local (NL) Hanle measurements. As we can avoid noticing erroneous effects like anisotropic magnetoresistance of the ferromagnetic electrodes, the NL-Hanle experiment has been established to be the most effective method for demonstrating true spin transport in semiconductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural regeneration and forest successional development are influenced by gap formation in forest stands. Nonetheless, there are limited studies that provide quantitative information on the influence of gaps on forest regeneration. We evaluated characteristics of inner and outer canopy gaps and their effects on natural regeneration in 40 canopy gaps in Sitapahar forest reserve of Bangladesh. A total of 50 individuals of 27 gapmaker tree species were found, of which 58% were formed by logging and the rest by natural damages. Elliptical shape represented 53% of the gaps followed by circular and rectangular gaps. The mean area of the outer and inner gaps was 50.1 ± 8.6 and 20.0 ± 3.0 m2, respectively. Gap formation types and shapes did not vary significantly between outer and inner gaps, while the mean gap area in older gaps was significantly higher than in new gaps. In comparison with outer gaps, mean densities of seedlings and saplings in the inner gaps were significantly higher, which is probably because of the closeness to seed trees. The diversity index of regenerating species and their height and collar diameter did not vary significantly between the inner and outer gaps. Positive, but weak relationships of gap area with subcanopy tree density and diversity were found. Since gaps were found dominated by few light-demanding tree species such as Brownlowia elata, Lithocarpus acuminata, Lithocarpus polystachya, and Macaranga denticulate, it is suggested that larger gaps need to be replanted with a combination of light-demanding and shade-tolerant native trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive production, consumption, and indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste contribute to plastic pollution, which has a negative impact on the environment and human health. The KAP (knowledge, attitude, and practices) study is thought to be useful in mitigating plastic pollution because understanding the public's knowledge, attitude, and practices toward plastic pollution can help identify problems and challenges, allowing appropriate policy decisions to be made to set up plans or implement interventions. This study assesses Malaysians' level of knowledge, attitude, and practices toward plastic pollution, as well as the variation of plastic pollution related to KAP among various socio-demographic groups. For this study, an online survey received 294 valid responses. Descriptive statistics, KAP scoring, and response cross-tabulation were calculated. This study received 294 valid responses via an online survey. Descriptive statistics, KAP scoring, and response cross-tabulation were estimated. A one-way analysis of variance, paired t-test, and binary logistic regressions was performed. Respondents' overall knowledge score (95% CI mean score: 3.88–10.94 on a scale of 11) and practice score (95% CI 1.09–6.53 on a scale of 6) were poor across socio-demographics when a cut point of 80% was used. Older (>46 years) respondents seemed to have more knowledge than younger (18–30 years) respondents (odds ratio, OR 4.304; p < 0.01). However, respondents between the ages of 31 and 45 reported significantly (p < 0.01) higher attitudes (OR 4.019) and practices (OR 4.056; p < 0.05). Respondents with environmental-related university education had a higher likelihood of knowing about plastic pollution (OR 10.343; p < 0.01). To encourage good practices toward minimizing plastic use and pollution, conclusions are drawn about undertaking interventions such as raising environmental awareness, incorporating plastic pollution topics into formal and informal education, and providing recycling facilities in nearby communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural regeneration in tropical forests is considered an essential part of forest restoration efforts; however, it is often under-estimated where the main focus has traditionally been on tree planting. This study assessed natural regeneration and its potential for the conservation of native tree species in Sitapahar Forest Reserve, Bangladesh. We established 99 temporary plots (2 m × 2 m each) in three canopy classes, namely dense canopy (DC, 70–100% canopy coverage), moderate canopy (MC, 40–70%), and open canopy (OC, <40%). In each plot, regenerating tree species were counted, identified, and height (m), collar diameter (cm), and diameter at breast height (dbh, cm) were measured. We identified 79 regenerating tree species under 31 plant families of which 61 were found in DC areas followed by 56 and 36 in MC and OC areas, respectively. Most of the species in DC areas were late-successional, while the OC areas were dominated by early successional species. Diversity and density of regeneration were lowest in OC areas. Findings of this study suggest harnessing biodiversity conservation by promoting natural regeneration and identifying the areas with higher potential for assisted natural regeneration that will enable in situ conservation of rare and vulnerable species by protecting them from further erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangladesh Forest Department had undertaken co-management of protected area (PA) initiatives for halting the rapid rate of forest degradation and deforestation in the country. However, only few research has been conducted to assess the effectiveness of co-management. In this study, drawing empirical data from two co-managed PA, namely, Bariyadhala National Park (BDNP) and Hazarikhil Wildlife Sanctuary (HWS), we investigated the impacts of co-management on spatio-temporal patterns of land use and land cover change, forest fragmentation, and local peoples' perception on how co-management approach was underpinning these changes in the studied PA landscape. Results showed that forest cover (4800 ha gain) and forest patches (26 patch gain) had increased in two studied PA while agricultural practices and resources extractions from forest had decreased during the study period. The increase in forest coverage might be attributed to the reforestation program (3253.81 ha) undertaken under the co-management project. More than 90% of respondents admitted that various activities on co-management such as awareness creation, restriction on hunting, and forest products collection have had positive impacts on biodiversity conservation. The findings of this research would be useful to formulate future course of actions regarding forest PA co-management in Bangladesh, and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local people's'participation is highly recommended in protected areas (PAs) management. This study aimed at understanding local people's participation as "means" or tool and "ends" or empowerment in the management of Kinabalu National Park (KNP) in Sabah state of Malaysia and the Kayan Mentarang National Park (KMNP) in North Kalimantan of Indonesia, two important PAs located in the Heart of Borneo. Following Bali Guidelines by UNEP, three important aspects of public participation at the local level were evaluated by deploying qualitative research methods for key-informant interviews (KII), focus group discussions (FGD), and content analysis of policy documents. In KMNP, policies and legal framework primarily supported local peoples' participation as "means" in park management, which was also revealed from interviews with KII and in FGD. Local communities had access to surrounding natural resources for livelihoods which is considered to be participation as "ends." There was no policy support for formal participation of local people in KNP management, but recent informal permission to use designated park areas for farming and eco-tourism can be seen participation as "means" and as "ends." To achieve both of "means" and "ends" fully, participation needs to be integrated into national parks' legal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-state actors (NSA) have become increasingly important in forest management and governance but with strikingly limited research on this subject. Here, we critically review the historical evolution and roles of major NSA in forest governance in selected tropical countries identifying the major challenges regarding sustainable and effective engagement of NSA and suggest pathways for better utilization of NSA. Historical evolution of forest governance revealed that the nature and role of NSA have substantially changed over time and NSA has expanded and diversified since the late 1970s with the introduction of different forms of community-based forest management (CBFM) models. Nevertheless, due to challenges such as predominant revenue orientation of forest governance that overshadows effective participation of NSA in governance, tenurial uncertainty, dependence on external funds and facilitation, ad hoc and project-based nature of operation, and sustainability of the relevant institutions, the outcomes of CBFM were limited. We conclude our synthesis calling for stronger policy, financial, and procedural support that ensures effective collaborations and partnerships with NSA that can result in positive outcomes for forest conservation and improvement of forest dependent local peoples' livelihoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore peoples' perception on rules-in-use and interaction among actors in a community-based peatland restoration program (CBPRP) in Raja Muja Forest Reserve (RMFR) of peninsular Malaysia. We followed Ostrom's institutional analysis and development framework, and collected both qualitative and quantitative data through organizing a stakeholders' workshop, 200 structured interviews, four focus group discussions and five key informants' interviews. Local people claimed that there was significant decline in their rights to access forests (χ2 = 49.42, p =.001), extraction of forest resources (χ2 = 53.02, p =.001), recreational (χ2 = 10.32, p =.001) and agricultural uses (χ2 = 4.35, p =.05) due to change in governance regimes from state forest management toward CBPRP. However, CBPRP introduced several social development programs for local community. This study identified 44 actors under seven categories, and only two actors (Selangor State Forestry Department and Global Environment Center, an NGO) played significant roles in decision-making process and interacted with other actors in peatland restoration actions. Community people had only participated in the implementation of rehabilitation actions. In order to sustain community development and sustainable management of RMFR, we suggest to reform multi-stakeholder governance structure that ensures active participation of local community people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-management of forest protected areas (PA) is considered as a viable option to improve the local-level forest governance. This study examined the state of local-level forest governance in Chunati wildlife sanctuary (CWS), a co-managed PA in south-eastern Bangladesh. Data on eight key principles of governance and forest conservation outcomes were collected by interviewing randomly selected non-state actors (n = 39) and state actors (n = 10) and four focus group discussions with the forest-dependent communities. We conducted a t-test to compare respondents' perceptions regarding key governance principles and conservation outcomes. Results revealed that co-management governance in CWS assisted to improve the quality of forests in terms of tree and wildlife diversity, while illicit felling and land encroachment had reduced. Respondents' overall perception on key governance principles showed a moderate-to-high score (mean 3.33 out of 5.00). Regarding forest conservation outcomes, the score was also moderate to high (mean 3.72 out of 5.00). Non-state actors showed fairly higher perception on overall key governance principles and conservation outcomes, while state actors (non-forestry officials) reported lower scores. Findings of this study would be useful to reshape the co-management policies that ensure good governance at local-level management of PA in Bangladesh and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-management has been adopted in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh since 2008 toward biodiversity conservation and livelihood improvement of local communities. However, we have limited research on how good governance was maintained and practiced in co-managed mangrove protected areas (PA). Drawing on a case study, this research assessed stakeholders' perception on good governance in PA co-management in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh. We adopted a 'good governance framework' consisting of six governance principles (stakeholders' participation, transparency, responsiveness, legitimacy, fairness and organizational capacity) and deployed both qualitative (11 key-informants' interviews and 4 focus group discussions) and quantitative methods (135 structured interviews) for data collection. Median, frequencies (percent), contingency table chi-square tests were performed for quantitative data. About 30–35% of the respondents perceived neutral in their responses to good governance principles (stakeholders' participation, transparency, responsiveness, legitimacy, fairness and organizational capacity) indicating moderate level of governance in PA co-management in the Sundarbans. This study has demonstrated a wider implementation gap between the ambitious intent enshrined in the new policy framework and actual rollout of PA governance on the ground. These results would be useful to policy-makers, development agencies and PA managers in formulating and implementing effective policies for PA co-management in Bangladesh and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-management of forest protected areas (PA) in Bangladesh was initiated in 2004 with the aim of involving forest-dependent people in the PA governance for the conservation of forest resources. This study was conducted in two deliberately selected PA (Lawachara national park and Teknaf wildlife sanctuary) to understand stakeholders' (co-management participants, forest officials, and non-participants of co-management) perception toward conservation outcomes. We interviewed 105 respondents using a pre-tested structured questionnaire, applied generalized logistic regression to model their perception of forest conservation outcomes, and did a content analysis of related literature. Forest officials and non-participants were less likely to perceive that co-management had brought something better for PA in terms of the existence of native tree species (odds ratio (OR) = 0.87), wildlife population (OR = 0.67), and agricultural activities (OR = 0.85) inside the PA, which are in conformity with related published literature. However, co-management participants were found positive (ORs are 1.59, 1.24, and 0.97, respectively) for the above conservation outcomes. The findings of this study would be useful for the Bangladesh forest department to identify the divergent perception of stakeholders and find ways toward better conservation outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report fabrication of a high quality exchanged biased trilayer magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) utilizing a magnetron sputtering system. The MTJ is composed of a type-II spin gapless semiconductor (SGS) Ti2CoSi inverse Heusler alloy (used as a lower electrode), a thin MgO layer (used as a tunnel barrier), and a half-metallic ferromagnet (HMF) Co2MnSi Heusler alloy (used as an upper electrode). Spin dependent transport properties reveal that the micro-fabricated MTJ can act as a reconfigurable magnetic tunnel diode, which lets the electric current to flow in either the forward or reverse path relying on the relative alignment of the magnetization direction of the upper and lower magnetic electrodes. A considerably high on/off current ratio (∼103) and a significantly low turn on voltage (VT) of 0.09 V have been achieved at 5 K for both parallel and antiparallel configurations. Another important characteristic shown by our fabricated MTJ is that it exhibits extremely large tunnel magnetoresistance ratios of 892% at 5 K and 197% at room temperature, which brings to light the utmost importance of using the combination of HMF and SGS materials as magnetic electrodes in a tunnel junction for potential applications in modern spintronic devices. All these exceptional features can undoubtedly nominate CMS/MgO/TCS MTJs as a promising candidate to serve as memory or logic elements in next generation ultra-high density magnetoresistive random access memories together with contemporary spin based electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective manipulation of excitons is crucial for the realization of exciton-based devices and circuits, and doping is considered a good strategy to achieve this. The influence of high temperature (800 °C) and vacuum annealing on the structural, morphological, optical properties and charge carrier dynamics of various percentages of hydrothermally-synthesized cobalt (0%, 2%, 4% and 8%) doped Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets are investigated. It has been confirmed by X-ray diffraction that the annealed samples exhibit better crystalline quality with (002) preferential direction. The prominent presence of mixed phases (2H and 1T), sulfur vacancies and strain due to sulfur vacancies in unannealed samples have been affirmed by Raman spectroscopy, XPS and HRTEM measurements, whereas the thermodynamically stable 2H phase predominates in the annealed samples. A, B and C excitons are observed through optical UV-Vis spectroscopy and their photo-induced charge carrier dynamics are studied through transient absorption spectroscopy. Predominant excited state absorption (ESA) overwhelms the saturable absorption effect arising from the state-filling of excitonic levels in the case of unannealed samples. Reduction of the 1T phase and defects leads to the absence of ESA in the annealed samples and regulated defect-assisted carrier recombination contributed from doping is found to dominate the differential absorption (ΔA) at excitonic resonance. A fascinating one order enhancement in the relaxation rate of hole capture corresponding to B excitonic transition (k = 0.08 ± 0.009 to k = 0.7 ± 0.05 ps−1) has been explored with the increase of cobalt dopant amount from 0% to 8% with the introduction of more recombination centers in the annealed samples. Our findings establish that cobalt doping in layered TMD materials with high-temperature vacuum annealing conditions enables controlled tuning over exciton dynamics. Control over such excitonic properties facilitates the efficient design of exciton-based optoelectronic devices in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loss of urban greeneries in rapidly developing Kuala Lumpur has prompted urban residents to conserve the remnant urban forests as urban community forests. This study was carried out at Kota Damansara Community Forest Reserve (KDCFR) and examined i) how urban residents in partnership with forestry department sustainably manage this forest reserve, ii) visitors' uses of KDCFR, and iii) their willingness toward conservation. Following the idea of peoples' perception on the use and management of forests, data were collected through an online survey and physical interviews by administering a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Current management of KDCFR includes forest trails maintenance, forest protection, and community outreach activities. To 97% respondents, forest and trails had been managed and protected well, and some (18–29%) reported negative impacts of trails on forest. Visitors visited KDCFR few days in a month for coming close to the nature and forest walk (51%), recreation (42%), health benefits (33%), stress reduction (30%), cycling (29%) and meeting friends (21%). To 69% respondents, they were highly satisfied with the visit to KDCFR. Community management of KDCFR had brought positive attitude in visitors, and 94% of them were willing to contribute toward conservation through trail management, forest protection and donation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The safety of health care workers (HCWs) in Bangladesh and the factors associated with getting COVID-19 have been infrequently studied. The aim of this study was to address this gap by assessing the capacity development and safety measures of HCWs in Bangladesh who have been exposed to COVID-19 and by identifying the factors associated with respondents' self-reported participation in capacity development trainings and their safety practices.Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on an online survey of 811 HCWs working at 39 dedicated COVID-19 hospitals in Bangladesh. A pretested structured questionnaire consisting of questions related to respondents' characteristics, capacity development trainings and safety measures was administered. Binary logistic regressions were run to assess the association between explanatory and dependent variables.Results: Among the respondents, 58.1% had been engaged for at least 2 months in COVID-19 care, with 56.5% of them attending capacity development training on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), 44.1% attending training on hand hygiene, and 35% attending training on respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette. Only 18.1% reported having read COVID-19-related guidelines. Approximately 50% of the respondents claimed that there was an inadequate supply of PPE for hospitals and HCWs. Almost 60% of the respondents feared a high possibility of becoming COVID-19-positive. Compared to physicians, support staff [odds ratio (OR) 4.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.25-8.51] and medical technologists (OR 8.77, 95% CI 3.14-24.47) were more exhausted from working in COVID-19 care. Respondents with longer duty rosters were more exhausted, and those who were still receiving infection prevention and control (IPC) trainings were less exhausted (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.34-0.86). Those who read COVID-19 guidelines perceived a lower risk of being infected by COVID-19 (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.29-0.67). Compared to the respondents who strongly agreed that hospitals had a sufficient supply of PPE, others who disagreed (OR 2.68, 95% CI 1.31-5.51) and strongly disagreed (OR 5.05, 95% CI 2.15-11.89) had a higher apprehension of infection by COVID-19.Conclusion: The findings indicated a need for necessary support, including continuous training, a reasonable duty roster, timely diagnosis of patients, and an adequate supply of quality PPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to eliminate COVID-19, many countries provided vaccinations. However, success depends on peoples' knowledge levels and rates of acceptance. But, previous research on this topic is currently lacking in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study aimed at to investigate Bangladeshi peoples' knowledge, acceptance, and perception of challenges regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Quantitative data were collected using an online survey (n = 1975) and face-to-face interviews (n = 2200) with a pre-tested structured questionnaire. In addition, seven open-ended interviews were conducted with health experts regarding challenges of vaccination. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between explanatory and dependent variables. Effect size was estimated to understand the magnitude of relationship between two variables. Of 4175 respondents, 92.6% knew about COVID-19 vaccines, while only 37.4% believed vaccines to be effective in controlling COVID-19. Nearly 46% of respondents believed that COVID-19 vaccines have side-effects, and 16.4% of respondents believed that side-effects could be life-threatening. Only 60.5% of respondents indicated that they would receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Out of 1650 respondents (39.5%) who did not intend to receive the vaccine, 948 (57.4%) believed that they would be naturally protected. Regressions results indicated that men had higher rates of knowledge regarding the vaccine. In addition, rural respondents demonstrated lower knowledge regarding the vaccine. Furthermore, education had a significant association with knowledge of COVID-19 vaccines. Respondents with university education had more knowledge regarding the vaccine (Odds ratio, OR = 29.99; 95% confidence interval, CI 11.40–78.90, effect size 1.88; p = 0.01) and correct dosage (OR 27.34; 95% CI 15.25–49.00, effect size 1.83; p = 0.01). However, women (OR 1.16; 95% CI 0.96–1.40, effect size 0.08) and rural (OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.07–1.44, effect size 0.12; p = 0.01) respondents were more enthusiastic regarding receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Higher educated respondents showed higher probability of receiving the vaccine. Those who believed in the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine were 11.57 times more interested (OR 11.57; 95% CI 8.92–15.01, effect size 1.35; p = 0.01) in receiving the vaccine. Open-ended interviews identified several challenges toward successful COVID-19 vaccination. Mass awareness creation, uninterrupted supply, equitable distribution, and sectoral coordination were suggested to achieve at least 70% immunization across the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to understand the psychological and livelihood-related impacts of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on Bangladeshi lower income group people who depend on daily earnings for their living. Following the convenience sampling method, 576 respondents were interviewed for quantitative data and 30 in-depth interviews for qualitative information in several districts of Bangladesh. To 94.1% respondents, livelihood has been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak with an overall score of 3.20 ± 0.77 on a 4-point Likert-type scale. In comparison to unemployed respondents, daily workers have been hardly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak (odds ratio [OR] = 7.957; P <.01), and so they are going outside more frequently in search of jobs (OR = 9.984, P <.01). Due to fear of COVID-19 infection and lack of livelihood means, respondents (76.6%) have been stressed out (overall score 3.19 ± 0.81 on a 4-point Likert-type scale), and those working in industries (OR = 5.818, P <.01), farmers (OR = 3.029, P <.05), and day laborers (OR = 2.651, P <.05) have been highly stressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-phase nanocrystalline In2O3 doped with 5 atomic percent Mn produces dilute magnetic semiconductor (DMS). The material is synthesized by low temperature 'pyrophoric reaction' using nitrate salts and diethanolamine. The XRD pattern at room temperature reveals the formation of cubic bixbyite structure of the oxide with nano-structured grain which is confirmed by FESEM. Magnetization data confirms ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature with gradual decrease in magnetization with rise of temperature. The phase transition occurred at 500 K is attributed to the transformation of ferromagnetic to paramagnetic state of the nanometric sample. Curie–Weiss inverse magnetic susceptibility [χ−1(T)] plot against temperature deduced the effective Bohr magneton (μeff) to be ~ 3.65 μB/Mn ion. Ferromagnetism may have generated from mixed valence states (Mn4+major /Mn3+minor) of Mn which is 3d element. Valence state was determined by chemical method using redox reaction between Fe2+and Mn4+/ Mn3+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forests managed through peoples' participation can help to achieve a number of sustainable development goals (SDGs). This paper, drawing data from four participatory forest management (PFM) projects in south‐eastern Bangladesh, explored: (a) the factors that influenced the outcomes of PFM; and (b) contribution of PFM towards achieving selected SDGs. The research used observation, semi‐structured household interviews, group discussions, vegetation survey and Ostromʼs design principles for data collection, Divergent forest conditions and factors in four PFM sites have had differential contribution to SDGs. Heterogeneity of user groups, insufficient coordination, absence of motivation, and land tenure conflicts had affected the attainment of SDGs. The PFM helped to achieve 9–11 SDGs comprising poverty reduction (Goal 1), improving food security (Goal 2), maintaining health and well‐being (Goal 3), enhancing childrensʼ education (Goal 4), fair access to jobs and committees (Goals 5 and 10), sources of clean drinking water (Goal 6), affordable energy for cooking (Goal 7), increased household economy (Goal 8), climate change through carbon sequestration (Goal 13), forest conservation (Goal 15), and partnerships with relevant institutions (Goal 16). In order to achieve SDGs, PFM could be viewed as an integral part of government development strategies, which needs sectoral coordination and integration of relevant policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current novel coronavirus (nCoV) pandemic, COVID-19, was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, and has spread globally, causing startling loss of life, stalling the global economy, and disrupting social life. One of the challenges to contain COVID-19 is convincing people to adopt personal hygiene, social distancing, and self-quarantine practices that are related to knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the residents of respective countries. Bangladesh, a densely populated country with a fast-growing economy and moderate literacy rate, has shown many hiccups in its efforts to implement COVID-19 policies. Understanding KAP may help policy makers produce informed decisions. This study assessed KAP in relation to COVID-19 in Bangladesh. An online survey using a pre-tested questionnaire conducted in late March 2020 attained 1,837 responses across Bangladesh. Ultimately, 1,589 completed responses were included in a statistical analysis to calculate KAP scores and their interrelations with sociodemographic variables. The overall KAP was poor, with only 33% of the participants demonstrating good knowledge, whereas 52.4% and 44.8% of the subjects showed good attitudes and practices, respectively. Sociodemographic factors had strong bearings on the KAP scores. Significantly higher KAP scores were evident in females over males, among aged 45 years and older over younger participants, and among retired workers and homemakers over students and public service employees. This study indicated a panic fuelled by poor understanding of COVID-19 associated facts and the need for the government to ensure more granular and targeted awareness campaigns in a transparent and factual manner to foster public confidence and ensure more meaningful public participation in mitigation measures. This study provides a KAP baseline regarding COVID-19 among Bangladeshis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on underutilized crops in Sri Lanka is limited. This study, conducted in Uva and Eastern provinces of southeastern Sri Lanka, is aimed at identifying common underutilized crops in the dominant agricultural farms, estimating their contribution to household income and food security, and understanding key actors' (leaders of farmers' associations, collectors/middlemen, and traders/wholesalers) knowledge of and preference for underutilized crops. Participatory rural appraisal methods were followed and snowball sampling was used for 88 semi-structured interviews with farmers who cultivate underutilized crops on their farms. In addition, 36 key actors were interviewed to explore their knowledge of and preference for potential underutilized crops. Thirty farming plots were visited to identify the composition of underutilized crops. Three mixed cropping agricultural farms—home gardens (mean area, 0.80 ha), chena (shifting cultivation, 0.82 ha), and off-season paddy lands (1.16 ha)—were observed. We identified 37 underutilized crops of which finger millet (60% of households) was most common, followed by cowpea (50%), cassava (41%), sweet melon (36%), and cashew nut (24%). Key actors prioritized four crops, namely finger millet (Eleusine coracana [L.] Gaertn.), cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.), and mung bean/green gram (Vigna radiata L. R.Wilczek), as high potential underutilized crops. The contribution of underutilized crops to household income and food security in Uva and Eastern province was 31% and 16%, and 61% and 43%, respectively. An integrated approach can be undertaken in order to promote and sustain underutilized crops in the region for agro-biodiversity conservation and benefiting farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change affects plant phenology, spatial distribution, and even extinction of vulnerable species. Dipterocarpus turbinatus, locally known as garjan, is a valuable but vulnerable native tree species of Bangladesh whose spatial distribution under future climate change scenarios is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of present and future climatic scenarios on spatiotemporal distribution of D. turbinatus. We used maximum entropy species distribution modeling to perform the present and future habitat suitability of garjan under different climate scenarios. The representative concentration pathways (RCP) 2.6 and 8.5 were considered for bioclimatic variables from the Global Climate Model – Hadley Global Environment Model 2 Atmosphere-Ocean. The predictive accuracy of the model was more than 97% in both the training and test data. The prediction results suggest that compared to present areas (7624 km2) under moderate habitat class it will be 2755 km2 and 1239 km2, respectively, in 2050 and 2070 under RCP2.6 scenario and decreases more rapidly under RCP8.5 scenario. Besides, the prediction also indicates that the habitat of the species will shift toward the high altitudinal south-eastern corner of the country whereas local extinction might occur in the north-eastern part during 2070. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Orang Asli communities in Malaysia have been practicing indigenous agroforestry for generations, but little is known about the specifics of their practices. This study examined the indigenous management and sustainability of agroforestry practices, constraints experienced and contribution to household income. Data were collected from two Orang Asli villages practicing forest-garden agroforestry (FAF) and homegarden agroforestry (HAF). Tools of participatory rural appraisal namely semi-structured household interviews, group discussion and personal observation were used to collect data. In both types of agroforestry practices villagers planted commercially important local fruit species of which durian was the most common and more profitable. Locally available planting materials, use of household labour, market demand of agroforestry products, and usage of mulching and litter to maintain soil fertility were the principal attributes of sustainable agroforestry. A majority of the respondents reported that agroforestry was their principal source of income, selfemployment, and safe and healthy food. Income from per unit area of HAF was significantly higher (21 %) than that of FAF. Land tenure and wildlife disturbances were two major constraints among others. Recommendations were made to resolve land tenure issue in light of government policy for agroforestry promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chunati Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS), a degraded protected area in southeastern Bangladesh, had been under comanagement since 2004. This study examined phytosociological characteristics and diversity of trees in CWS and discussed villagers’ opinions on the impact of comanagement on forest conservation. Following a stratified and systematic sampling 140 circular plots, 17.84-m radius each, were laid out in seven forest beats for the assessment of phytosociological characteristics and tree diversity. Several key-informant interviews and 15 focus group discussions were held to explore the impact of comanagement on forest conservation and on villagers’ livelihood. A total of 93 tree species were identified having a diameter at breast height (dbh) of ≥ 5 cm in 36 plant families. The dominant species wereAcacia auriculiformis, Dipterocarpus turbinatus, Ficus hispida, andTectona grandis. The average density of trees was 239 trees/ha of which 60% was composed of planted exotic species. Nearly 90% trees were belonging to 5- to 15-cm dbh class and the Shannon-Wiener index was 3.15. The comanagement governance had brought positive changes in forest conservation. However, to sustain the engagement of poor villagers in the comanagement and conservation of degraded CWS, more collective efforts are needed to support their living. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many forest reserves in Bangladesh have been converted to protected areas (PAs) to conserve the forests resources from further depletion. This study has investigated if such initiatives have improved the state of biodiversity of these PAs amid tremendous anthropogenic pressure on forest resources. We have assessed the phytosociological attributes of the PAs in the country through a case study at Kaptai National Park (KNP) and compared the attributes with those of the adjacent areas and of the tropical forests across the world. We have identified 52 species belonging to 45 genera and 28 families. The most dominant species in KNP was Dipterocarpus spp. and the adjacent area was dominated by Tectona grandis. Unexpectedly, the Shannon-Wiener index of KNP has dropped down from 2.98 in 2000 to 0.90 in 2014. However, in terms of relative density, relative dominance, and relative frequency, KNP was better than the adjacent areas. In contrast, the mean Shannon-Wiener index in KNP (0.90) was smaller than that in the tropical countries (2.99). We recommend strengthening effective comanagement of PAs and enabling nonforestry income generation activities for the forestdependent people so that the biodiversity of the PAs can be enriched while people's livelihoods are ensured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors have presented microstructural, ac- and dc-electrical properties, and magnetic and optical studies of Zn1-xFex/2Cox/2O (x=0.1 and 0.2) semiconducting nanoparticles, prepared through low temperature chemical "pyrophoric reaction process." Structural characterizations confirm the formation of single phase (at a calcination temperature of 300 °C), chemically homogeneous, nanometric sample (~7 nm). Electrical studies on those samples have been carried out using an ac impedance spectroscopy and dc resistivity technique. Temperature dependent relaxation processes have been investigated by studying complex impedance spectroscopy. The authors have also estimated activation energy from both ac and dc resistivity data of those nanoparticles. Magnetic data clearly reveal the presence of some sort of magnetic behavior, even up to room temperature, in the x=0.2 sample, whereas for x=0.1 sample, there in no such magnetic behavior. This feature has been explained through magnetic polaron percolation theory. The authors have also estimated semiconducting band gap of those nanoparticles using recorded absorbance spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Asian upland cultivators are transitioning from subsistence production to commercial production using mainly small-scale rubber cultivation, which helps this transition and reduces poverty. This study, conducted October 2007 through February 2009, examines how small-scale rubber planting enhances people's livelihoods. Data were gathered from Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka. We found differences in rubber tree stock, growth, management, and livelihood impact. Plantations in India and Sri Lanka were doing well, while Bangladesh tree stock was low. Strong institutional support, proper silvicultural practices, funding for plantation maintenance, and participant awareness of benefits contributed to satisfactory plantation conditions in India and Sri Lanka, where participants realized good earnings from tapping, while Bangladeshi participants earned little. Because monoculture rubber plantations present risks, participants should practice mixed cropping. Rubber agroforestry can be the best alternative to monoculture rubber plantations because it reconciles economic and sustainable uses of natural resources, and biodiversity conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a strategy of social development, the Bangladeshi government has attached the highest priority to participatory forestry (PF) since the early 1980s. In this article, we examine the impacts of PF on livelihoods of ethnic people, drawing empirical data from three villages involved in two PF projects. The projects have varying impacts on livelihoods of participating villagers. Disparities in income and forest conditions in the study villages were traced to factors including forest production technologies (agroforestry), the top-down approach of project management, failure to create awareness about project benefits, and the inability of project staff members to organize planters. Findings also indicate that PF projects are not sufficient to conserve and develop forests without assuring people's basic needs-food security and regular income sources. Meeting the diversified needs of people necessitates a long-term integrated plan that focuses on sustainable management of land, water, and other resources with a coordinated approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By sampling an upland settlement project (USP) village, this study examined why the project failed to achieve the planned objectives in some villages, and what livelihood strategies villagers (planters) have adopted to sustain their livelihoods. The paper uses data obtained by qualitative and quantitative methods. The USP was formulated with the objectives of settling 50 landless and marginal tribal families in a project village and introducing agroforestry and rubber plantations for short- and long-term socioeconomic development of planters, in a participatory manner. There are now only 15 planters in the project village and, although agroforestry has progressed well, only 30 to 40% of poor quality rubber trees remain. Planter participation in project activities was limited to wage labour, indicating that the USP failed to adequately achieve all its proposed objectives. In the face of project failure, planters have adopted diversified strategies to maintain their livelihoods. Several shortcomings caused failure of the project, such as the inability of project staff members to organize planters, failure to create awareness among planters about project benefits, lack of regular project money disbursement, sociocultural ignorance, and lack of social capital among planters. Recommendations are made for securing effective participation of local people to assure successful and sustainable project outcomes. Lessons learned will be helpful in formulating future development programmes in this country and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the trend of dwindling productivity, tribal people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) still practise shifting cultivation as a dominant hill farming system to support their livelihood. Drawing on an empirical study in Khagrachari district of the CHT, this research examined how far the production from present shifting cultivation supports the tribal people's livelihood and what alternative livelihood strategies they have adopted for subsistence by using data on input/output and income/expenditures, and analysing current government policies. The findings showed that productivity declined markedly, yields were almost equal to input values and farmers experienced food shortages for at least two to six months in a year. To make a living, farmers have adopted new occupations such as wage labour, animal husbandry, cultivation of annual monocrops and extraction and selling of forest products. Policy analysis indicates that previous policies were unable to reduce shifting cultivation intensity or improve tribal people's livelihoods or the region's forest resources. Reorientation of government policies, easy access to institutional support and the active participation of local people in development intervention are of the utmost importance in order to find alternative land uses for sustainable hill farming, to improve the farmer's living standards and to conserve forests and protect watersheds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied the electronic structure of Zn0.9Fe0.1O nanoparticles, which have been reported to be ferromagnetic at room temperature, by using soft X-ray absorption (XAS) and magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD). The XAS results indicate that Fe ions are predominantly in the Fe3+ state with mixture of a small amount of Fe2+. It is shown that the room temperature ferromagnetism in the Zn0.9Fe0.1O nanoparticles is primarily originated from the antiferromagnetic coupling between unequal amounts of Fe3+ ions occupying two sets of nonequivalent positions in the region of the XMCD probing depth of ∼2–3 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]