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Laminar forced convection in viscous, non-Newtonian polymeric liquids that exhibit pseudoplastic or shear-thinning behavior is characterized. The fluid rheology is characterized by a new asymptotic power-law (APL) model, which appropriately represents extensive data for apparent viscosity variation with shear rate--from the low-shear constant-viscosity plateau to shear thinning at high shear rates. This is contrasted with the traditional Ostwald-de-Waele or power-law (PL) model that invariably over-extends the pseudoplasticity in the very low shear-rate region. The latter's limitations are demonstrated by computationally obtaining frictional loss and convective heat transfer results for fully developed laminar flows in a circular pipe maintained at uniform heat flux. The Fanning friction factor and Nusselt number, as would be anticipated from the rheology map of pseudoplastic fluids, are functions of flow rate with the APL model unlike the Newtonian-like constant value obtained with the PL model. Comparisons of the two sets of results highlight the extent of errors inherent in the PL rheology model, which range from 23% to 68% for frictional loss and 3.8% to 13.7% for heat transfer. The new APL rheology model is thus shown to be the more precise characterization of viscous shear-thinning fluids for their thermal processing applications with convective heat transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern History, metals and alloys have been used as implants. In the early development, metal implants faced corrosion and insufficient strength problems. Metal implants experienced vast development and clinical use. Type of metal used in biomedical depends on specific implant applications. SS316L & Ni-Cr are still the most used alloy in all implants division ranging from Cardiovascular to Otorhinology. However, when the implant requires high wear resistance such as artificial joints, SS316L and Ni-Cr alloys are better served. This work aims at studying the electrochemical behavior of meals like Ni-Cr, SS316L, and Gold22 & Gold18 and for comparative purpose mild steel in the presence of Simulated Ringer Solution. The behavior of metals was mentioned by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). All the experiments were carried out at a constant temperature at 37° C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A composite polymer electrolyte system based on PEMA/PVAc/LiClO4/EC with different wt% of nano filler TiO2 was prepared by solution casting technique.The structural investigations of the prepared polymer electrolyte membranes were carried out using X-ray diffraction and Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopictechniques. The electrical measurements were performed at various temperatures 303–363 K using ac impedance technique. The maximum room temperature ionic conductivity of 2.745 × 10 −3  S/cm was obtained for the polymer electrolyte membrane with 10 wt% TiO2. The temperature dependent ionic conductivity plot exhibited VTF behaviour. The porous nature of the membranes was verified from the SEM and AFM images. The thermal investigations performed on the samples by DSC technique displayed prominent endothermic peaks which revealed that the samples with the incorporation of filler had undergone a transition tothe amorphous phase at lower temperatures. The thermal stability of the film (F3) of maximum ionicconductivity was found to be 260 °C by means of TG/DTA analysis. The wide electrochemical stability window of –2.1 V to +2.1 V and the cyclability & reversibility of the maximum ion conducting sample at ambient temperature were confirmed by carrying out the electrochemical characterizations such as linear sweep voltammetry and cyclic voltammetry respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colon cancer is one of the most common malignancies in many regions of the world and is thought to arise from the accumulation of mutations in a single epithelial cell of the colon and rectum. The benzimidazole comprises a important pharmacophore and privileged structure in modern drug discovery. Various substituted benzimidazole derivatives have been found to possess potential anticancer properties. Objective: The study aimed to prove the anti-colon cancer activity of novel benzimidazole derivative 4-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-6-phenylpyrimidin-2-amine loaded chitosan nanoparticle (BZI 3 nano) by an 1, 2 Dimethylhydrazine (DMH) Induced rat model in-vivo study and identify the targeting efficiency of BZI 3 nano to treat colorectal cancer. Method: The effect of novel benzimidazole derivative 4-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-6-phenylpyrimidin-2-amine loaded chitosan nanoparticle (BZI 3 nano) on the formation of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), apoptosis, histopathology, body weight, organs weight and heamotological parameters were studied in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colon cancer in rats. Results: BZI 3 nano (5 mg/kg, p.o) administration significantly reduced ACF number and increased the weight gain and apoptotic index compared to DMH treated group. The histological alterations induced by DMH were also significantly improved. Conclusion: In-vivo anticancer activities results revealed that the presence substituted benzimidazole derivative nanoparticle (BZI 3 nano) could have the anticancer potential of the scaffold and selective, good target for drug discovery, which can be regarded as promising anticancer potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Countries worldwide are seeking to decarbonize the planet by 2050 to mitigate climate change. Green hydrogen (H 2) from water electrolysis is vital to worldwide decarbonization. Consequently, electrolysis-based green H 2 production for large-scale renewable energy power plants and other industrial and transportation applications has grown in popularity. The main objective of this work was to provide a recent review and evaluation of water electrolysis for green H 2 production. In this review, the water electrolysis process, which involves the electrochemical water splitting and photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting and their techno-commercial prospects including H 2 production cost, along with recent developments in electrode and photoelectrode materials, and their environmental aspects for green H 2 production were summarized. The results showed that the Ni-based catalyst improved the electrocatalytic activity at a current density of 10 mA/cm2, while TiO 2 -based catalysts enhanced PEC water-splitting processes with superior solar to H 2 (STH) efficiency (3.7–16.9%). The levelized cost of H 2 (LCOH) for PEC and polymer exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis is almost similar about 9 $/kgH 2 , and combining water electrolysis with wind and solar energy decreases the LCOH, which surpassed coal power generation by 40%. According to the results of a life cycle assessment (LCA), global warming potential (GWP) is the environmental effect category that causes the most concern and is the subject of the most research. The PEC-based water splitting process is the most environmentally friendly H 2 production method since it emits the lowest GWP per kg of produced H 2 (1.0 kg CO 2 /Kg H 2) in comparison to wind-based PEM water electrolysis (4.0 kg CO 2 /Kg H 2) and PV-solar-based PEM water electrolysis (1.5 kg CO 2 /Kg H 2). Interestingly, the case studies in various countries related to the green H 2 were also discussed. Finally, the future of green H 2 production and the challenges it faces in achieving cost-effective commercial applications were discussed. [Display omitted] • Green H 2 from water electrolysis (WE) is vital to worldwide decarbonization. • WE process and their techno-commercial prospects were discussed. • Recent developments in electrode and photoelectrode materials was summarized. • An environmental aspect for green H 2 production was summarized. • Case studies in various countries related to the green H 2 were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work describes the sulfonated Titania directly blended with Poly (Vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) as a host polymer by solvent casting technique for PEM fuel cell application. Characterization studies such as FT-IR, SEM, EDX, AFM, Proton conductivity, contact angle measurement, IEC, TG, water uptake, tensile strength were performed by for synthesized proton conducting polymer electrolytes. The maximum proton conductivity value was found to be 3.6 × 10 −3 S/cm for 25 wt% sulfonated Titania based system at 80 °C. The temperature dependent proton conductivity of the polymer electrolyte follows an Arrhenius relationship. Surface morphology of the composite membranes was investigated by tapping mode. Thermal stability of the system was studied by TG analysis. The fabricated composite membranes with high proton conductivity, good water uptake and IEC parameters exhibited a maximum fuel cell power density of 85 Mw/cm 2 for PEM fuel cell application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibition efficiency of Tween 20 in controlling corrosion of carbon steel in well water has been evaluated by weight loss method. Mechanistic aspects of corrosion inhibition have been studied by Polarization and AC-impedance spectra. The formulation consisting of 200 ppm of Tween 20 and 50 ppm of Zn 2+ gives 85% inhibition efficiency. A synergistic effect exists between Tween 20 and Zn 2+ . Polarization study reveals that Tween 20 - Zn 2+ system functions as a mixed kind of inhibitor. AC impedance spectra reveals that a protective film is formed on the metal surface. FTIR spectra reveal that the protective film consists of Fe 2+ - Tween 20 complex and Zn(OH) 2 . The formation of monolayer and hydrophobic nature were confirmed by AFM, FTIR and Contact angle measurements. The contact angle measurement confirms the hydrophobic nature of the protective film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the inhibition effect on the corrosion of mild steel, in sulphuric acid solution at pH 4, where a new combination of urea, Zn2+ and L-phenylalanine was used as inhibitors. The inhibition efficiency was calculated using the weight loss method. The system, urea (150 ppm) - Zn2+ (25 ppm) - L-phenylalanine (250 ppm) has 93% inhibition efficiency. The surface morphology of inhibited mild steel was analysed by FTIR spectra, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDAX). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A body nonlinear time domain method based on strip theory with a weakly nonlinear formulation for the free surface condition is proposed and used to analyze the vertical responses of a cruise ship in random seas. The term ‘body nonlinearity’ implies the dependence of the hydrodynamic forces on the instantaneous wetted surface area of the ship hull. The radiation forces are calculated by means of Cummins formulation and are calculated for the wetted hull under the incident wave profile. A practical engineering approach is followed for the estimation of the body nonlinear radiation and diffraction forces. The hydrostatic forces are calculated for the wetted hull under the incident wave profile. The free surface condition is represented using a weakly nonlinear formulation and the incident irregular waves have nonlinearities up to second order. The wave pressure is calculated from the first- and second-order wave potentials using the Bernoulli equation and is integrated over the exact wetted surface to calculate the Froude-Krylov forces. The numerical results are compared with the experimental results measured in a wave tank. The comparative study is carried out by analyzing the statistics of the waves and through probability of exceedance of the wave peaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research targets the moment of tumble and swirl function of air flow in cylinder. It is explained by introducing aerodynamically efficient aerofoil plate in the path of inlet stream of air with fuel mixture. In normal level, Engine have cylinder and inlet manifold geometry that lead to tumble motion and better mixture of air and fuel. The motion of tumble is entirely different than traditional method. The new level research carries the manifold with 8mm and 10 mm aerofoil plate for the amalgamation of fuel and air. By the low level speed in any prevailing engines the movement of tumble is practiced. To have a complete combustion stimulated by the process of mixing air and fuel molecules with the observation at lower engine speed and better mixing is the Moto of research. The performance of the engine increase and complete combustion leads to reduced emission (CO, HC, and CO2) and small change in volumetric efficiency. It is also proved that, increased tumble movement introduces aerofoil plate that helps the flame spread which used into constant heat transfer rate. This suggests to a new combustion technique that should be developed to yield improved primary combustion processes in-side the engine with slightly increase in the break thermal efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the dose-dependent effects of Salvia haematodes Wall roots ( SHW) extract on male reproductive function and copulatory behaviour in rats. Sexually mature males were assigned to four groups: control and treated (5, 50 and 300 mg kg−1 day−1 for 30 days). At the end of treatment regimes, the reproductive activity viz. body/organ weights, testicular spermatogenesis, daily sperm production rate ( DSP) and epididymal sperm counts, and sexual behaviour including mounting latency ( ML), mounting frequency ( MF), intromission latency ( IL), intromission frequency ( IF), ejaculation latency ( EL), post-ejaculatory interval ( PEI) and penile reflexes ( PE) were assessed. Results showed significant increase in body weight (at 300 mg kg−1), testis/epididymis weights (at 50 and 300 mg kg−1), testicular spermatids, DSP, tubular diameter and epididymal sperm counts (at 50 and 300 mg kg−1doses) in treated compared with control rats. It also produced dose-dependant changes in sexual behaviour. The 5 mg kg−1 dose of extract increased MF and PE, whereas 50 and 300 kg−1 doses caused significant increase in MF, IF, PE, EL (but less than sildenafil citrate treatment), hit rate and seminal plug weight. It is concluded that SHW extract enhances anabolic activity, testicular function and sexual behavioural performance in a dose-dependant manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocomposite polymer blend electrolytes based on poly (ethylene oxide), poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) that contained lithium perchlorate as a dopant, propylene carbonate (PC) as a plasticizer and Barium Titanate (BaTiO3) as a filler were prepared for various concentrations of BaTiO3 using solvent casting technique. The structural and complex formations of the composite electrolyte membranes were confirmed by X-ray diffraction and FTIR analysis. The addition of BaTiO3 nanofillers improved the ionic conductivity of the polymer electrolytes to some extent when the content of the BaTiO3 is 10 wt%. The addition of BaTiO3 also enhanced the thermal stability of the electrolyte. The surface morphology of the sample having a maximum ionic conductivity was studied by AFM. Molecular motion in the polymeric media was supported by fluorescence studies. The charge transfer arises between the polymer blend and Li-ions were confirmed by UV-Vis analysis. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:302-311, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B Conclusion: b This work implements a Machine-Learning tool to asses and classifies the plasmodium species using the stained thin blood smear images. The proposed work aims to develop a Machine-Learning (ML) system for the assessment and classification of the parasite existing in the stained thin blood smear images recorded with a digital microscope. [Extracted from the article]

A new 3-node triangular element is developed on the basis of partition of unity (PU) concept. The formulation employs the parametric shape functions of classical triangular element (TRIA3) to construct the PU and the least square point interpolation method to construct the local displacement approximation. The proposed element synergizes the individual merits of finite element method and meshfree method. Moreover, the usual linear dependence problem associated with PU finite elements is eliminated in the present element. Application of the element to several linear and geometric nonlinear problems shows that the proposed element gives a performance better than that of classical linear triangular as well as linear quadrilateral elements, and comparable to that of quadratic quadrilateral element. The proposed element does not necessitate a new mesh or additional nodes in the mesh. It uses the same mesh as the classical TRIA3 element and is able to give more accurate solution than the TRIA3 element. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibition efficiency (IE) of an aqueous extract of garlic in controlling corrosion of carbon steel in well water in the absence and presence of Zn2+ has been evaluated by mass-loss method. The formulation consisting of 2 mL of garlic extract and 25ppm Zn2+ offers 70% inhibition efficiency to carbon steel immersed in well water. Polarization study reveals that this formulation controls the anodic reaction predominantly. FTIR spectra reveal that the protective film consists of Fe2+-allicin complex and Zn(OH)2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental friendly inhibitor system DL-phenylalanine-Zn2+ has been investigated by weight loss method. A synergistic effect exists between DL-phenylalanine and Zn2+ system. The formulation consisting of 150 ppm of DL-phenylalanine and 5 ppm of Zn2+ offers good inhibition efficiency of 90%. Polarization study reveals that this formulation functions as a anodic inhibitor. AC impedance spectra reveal that a protective film is formed on the metal surface. The surface morphology has been analysed by SEM and ED AX. A suitable mechanism of corrosion inhibition is proposed based on the results obtained from weight loss study and electrochemical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibition efficiency (IE) of caffeine in controlling corrosion of carbon steel in well water in the absence and presence of Zn2+ has been evaluated by mass loss method. The formulation, consisting of 200 ppm of caffeine and 50 ppm Zn2+, offers 82% inhibition efficiency to carbon steel immersed in well water. Addition of malic acid increases inhibition efficiency of the caffeine-Zn2+ system. The inhibition efficiency of caffeine-Zn2+ and caffeine-Zn2+-malic acid system decreases with the increase in immersion period and increases with the increase in pH from 3 to 11. AC impedance spectra, SEM micrographs, and AFM studies reveal the formation of protective film on the metal surface. The film is found to be UV fluorescent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the relevance of standard Response surface methodology (RSM) for studying the effect of Electrode Wear (EW) and Rapidly Re-solidified Layer Thickness (RRLT) in the tool steel of T90Mn2W50Cr45 used in electrical discharge machining process. The process parameters Pulse on time, pulse off time, and pulse current were altered in the experiment. The Response surface methodology (RSM) is used for developing a mathematical model for the Electrode Wear and Rapidly Resolidified Layer Thickness. The data obtained for Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) has been used in mathematical model. The end result of Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) has been applied to verify the lack of fit and capability of the built-up models. The predicted and experimental values were quite close, which indicates that the developed model can be effectively used to predict the Electrode Wear and Rapidly Re-solidified Layer Thickness in the machining of tool steel of T90Mn2W50Cr45. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nanocomposite polymer electrolytes (NCPEs) composed of poly(vinylidenefluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF-co-HFP) as a host polymer, Poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) as an additive, Ethylene Carbonate (EC) as a plasticizer, Lithium Perchlorate as dopant salt and Barium Titanate (BaTiO3) as a filler were prepared for various concentrations of BaTiO3 using solvent casting technique. Thermal stability of the sample having maximum ionic conductivity was found using TG/DTA analysis. Nano composite polymer electrolytes were subjected to ac impedance analysis spectra for acquiring the ionic conductivity values at different temperature. Surface structure of the sample was analysed using scanning electron microscope and the complexations of samples were analysed using X-ray diffraction analysis. It was noted that the polymer electrolyte contains 8 wt. % of BaTiO3 showed maximum ionic conductivity than the other ratios of BaTiO3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Solid polymer electrolyte membrane comprising poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), poly(ehylene oxide) (PEO) and different lithium salts (LiClO, LiBF and LiCFSO) were prepared by the solution casting technique. The effect of complexing salt on the ionic conductivity of the PVC/PEO host polymer is discussed. Solid polymer electrolyte films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy, TG/DTA and ac impedance spectroscopic studies. The conductivity studies of these solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) films are carried out as a function of frequency at various temperatures ranging from 302 K to 353 K. The maximum room temperature ionic conductivity is found to be 0·079 × 10 S cm for the film containing LiBF as the complexing salt. The temperature dependence of the conductivity of polymer electrolyte films seems to obey the Vogel-Tamman-Fulcher (VTF) relation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Recently, a partition-of-unity (PU) based finite element called ‘FE-Meshfree’ QUAD4 element has been published. That element employed polynomial basis functions for the local approximation (LA). In the present paper, a new FE-Meshfree QUAD4 element employing hybrid radial-polynomial basis functions for the LA is proposed. An advantage of radial-polynomial basis is the freedom from the possible singularity of the moment matrix that could sometimes result with an inappropriate choice of polynomial basis functions. Another advantage is the improved accuracy of finite element solution. The new element has been applied to several linear and nonlinear test problems. The results demonstrate that the new element gives much better performance as compared to the previous FE-Meshfree QUAD4 element with pure polynomial basis. Even with a lower order basis, viz., with just three or four polynomial terms, the present element is capable of giving more accurate solution than the previous element which employs a six-term polynomial basis. The new element also exhibits a much higher degree of tolerance to mesh distortion than the known quadratic elements. Moreover, the linear dependence problem, otherwise associated with many of the partition-of-unity (PU) based elements, is completely eliminated from the present element. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The efficiency of the thiophenol-Zn system in inhibiting the corrosion of carbon steel in groundwater over a period of 5 days has been evaluated by weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization and AC impedance spectroscopy. A formulation containing 50 ppm Zn and 100 ppm of thiophenol has an inhibition efficiency of 96%. Polarization studies show that the thiophenol-Zn system functions primarily as a cathodic inhibitor, controlling the cathodic reactions. AC impedance spectra and Scanning Electron Microscopy reveal the formation of a protective film on the metal surface. The FTIR spectrum shows the presence of Fe-thiophenol complex and Zn(OH) in the film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using time dependent nonlinear (s-wave scattering length) coupling between the components of a weakly interacting two component Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC), we show the possibility of matter wave switching (fraction of atoms transfer) between the components via shape changing/intensity redistribution (matter redistribution) soliton interactions. We investigate the exact bright-bright N-soliton solution of an effective one-dimensional (1D) two component BEC by suitably tailoring the trap potential, atomic scattering length, and atom gain or loss. In particular, we show that the effective 1D coupled Gross-Pitaevskii equations with time dependent parameters can be transformed into the well known completely integrable Manakov model described by coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations by effecting a change of variables of the coordinates and the wave functions under certain conditions related to the time dependent parameters. We obtain the one-soliton solution and demonstrate the shape changing/matter redistribution interactions of two and three-soliton solutions for the time-independent expulsive harmonic trap potential, periodically modulated harmonic trap potential, and kinklike modulated harmonic trap potential. The standard elastic collision of solitons occur only for a specific choice of soliton parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paper focuses on the synthesis of chitosan nanoparticles (CSN) by ionic gelation with sodium tripolyphosphate and subsequently its loading with silver ions to produce silver loaded chitosan nanoparticles (Ag-CSN). The aim was to enhance the antibacterial property of chitosan in the nanoparticle form and thus improve its bactericidal efficacy when applied on polyester fabrics. The average particle size of CSN and Ag-CSN was 115nm and 165nm, respectively. The structure of CSN and Ag-CSN was studied by XRD, FTIR, DSC, TGA and TEM analysis. The minimum inhibitory concentration of both the CSN and Ag-CSN against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was found to be 50 and 500 times less, respectively, as compared to bulk chitosan. Silver loading on the synthesized CSN showed synergistic antimicrobial effect against S. aureus bacteria. The release of Ag+ from Ag-CSN finished polyester fabric is substantiated by antibacterial testing which shows a clear zone of inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer blend electrolytes comprising of poly(vinyl acetate), poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene), LiClO, and EC-based plasticizer combinations (EC + PC, EC + GBL, EC + DMP, EC + DBP, EC + DEC) are prepared by solvent casting technique. Ionic conductivities of the electrolytes are determined by ac impedance studies in the temperature range 303-363 K. Among the various combinations of plasticizers, EC + PC added complex exhibits maximum ionic conductivity of the order of 10 S cm and the temperature-dependent ionic conductivity plots seem to obey the VTF relation. The structural and complex formations of the prepared samples have been confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. DSC technique is used to study the thermal behaviour. The surface images of the sample having maximum ionic conductivity are analyzed with the help of SEM and AFM techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Plasticized polymer electrolyte films containing poly (vinyl acetate) (PVAc)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)–LiClO4 with different plasticizers are prepared by solvent casting technique. Complexation of the prepared electrolytes is confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis and Fourier Transform Infra red analysis. Ionic conductivities of the electrolytes are determined by AC impedance studies in the temperature range of 303–343K. The temperature dependent ionic conductivity plot seems to obey Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher relation. The ionic transport in the polymer electrolytes has been discussed on the basis of free volume theory. Thermal stability and the surface morphology of the polymer electrolytes are examined by using thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis and scanning electron microscope respectively. The highest ionic conductivity 5.064×10−4 Scm−1 have been observed for ethylene carbonate based complex because of the higher dielectric constant (89.6 at 40°C) among the other plasticizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel multiwalled carbon nano tubes (MWCNTs) incorporated electrolyte membrane based on a blend of poly(vinyl acetate), poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene), were prepared by solution casting technique using lithium perchlorate as a metallic salt. The prepared membranes were subjected to X-ray diffraction analysis, impedance spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopic studies. The incorporation of MWCNTs greatly enhanced the ionic conductivity and is in the order of 10-3Scm-1. The temperature-dependent ionic conductivity of the electrolyte membrane seems to obey Voggel-Tamman-Fulcher relation. The rms roughness of the nano composite polymer electrolyte over the scanned area is of the order of 38 nm and the surface images of the electrolytes have been depicted using a scanning electron microscope. The change in viscosity of the polymer complexes was also identified using photoluminescence emission spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new route for the synthesis of 1-hydroxy-5-methoxy-benzo[f][2,7]naphthyridines has been developed from easily available precursor 2-chloro-3-formyl quinolines. The 2-methoxy-3-formyl quinolines were prepared and condensed with glycine ethyl ester hydrochloride. This resulted in the formation of an imines, which on cyclization with Dowtherm A yielded 1-hydroxy-5-methoxy-1,2-dihydrobenzo[f][2,7]naphthyridines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To our knowledge, the present study is the first attempt to evaluate the effect of different process parameters on the amount of polyelectrolyte adsorbed on a cotton textile substrate via sequential adsorption of negatively charged poly (styrene sulfonate) (PSS) and positively charged poly (allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) using layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly nanocoating process. A considerably different polymer adsorption behaviour was observed from thick adsorbed layers to thin adsorbed layer with different degree of layer penetration and ionic pair formation over the pH range (2.5 - 9.0) studied. The amount of polyelectrolyte adsorption on cotton fabric was evaluated by measuring the colour value (K/S) of methylene blue absorbed cotton surface. Contact angle measurement revealed that the extent of binding of the oppositely charged polyions on the fabric depends on the pH of the polyelectrolyte solution and 'zipped-up' structure with more ion pair formation was observed at the pH range 4.5 - 6.5. At higher temperature, the amount of polyelectrolyte adsorbed within the multilayers was higher. An increased deposition of PSS and PAH was observed with increase in electrolyte (NaCl) concentration. The amount of PSS and PAH adsorption increased up to 0.03 (M) of PSS and 0.01 (M) of PAH concentrations, respectively. A dipping time of 5 min was sufficient to have a maximum deposition of the polyelectrolyte multilayers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We investigate the exact bright and dark solitary wave solutions of an effective 1D Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) by assuming that the interaction energy is much less than the kinetic energy in the transverse direction. In particular, following the earlier works in the literature Pérez-García et al. (2004) , Serkin et al. (2007) , Gurses (2007) and Kundu (2009) , we point out that the effective 1D equation resulting from the Gross–Pitaevskii (GP) equation can be transformed into the standard soliton (bright/dark) possessing, completely integrable 1D nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation by effecting a change of variables of the coordinates and the wave function. We consider both confining and expulsive harmonic trap potentials separately and treat the atomic scattering length, gain/loss term and trap frequency as the experimental control parameters by modulating them as a function of time. In the case when the trap frequency is kept constant, we show the existence of different kinds of soliton solutions, such as the periodic oscillating solitons, collapse and revival of condensate, snake-like solitons, stable solitons, soliton growth and decay and formation of two-soliton bound state, as the atomic scattering length and gain/loss term are varied. However, when the trap frequency is also modulated, we show the phenomena of collapse and revival of two-soliton like bound state formation of the condensate for double modulated periodic potential and bright and dark solitons for step-wise modulated potentials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polyaniline (PANI) and poly(N-methylaniline) (PNMA) have been electrodeposited on mild steel from oxalic acid bath using cyclic voltammetric technique. Pretreatments like passivation and primer polymer coatings were required for effective coating. Differently stacked composite polymer layers on the metal surface by layer-by-layer approach have also been obtained and their properties have been compared with their corresponding copolymer coatings. FTIR study confirms the formation of electroactive polymer compounds on mild steel. Evaluation of these coatings in 3.5% NaCl solution by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy reveals significant corrosion resistant behavior. Relatively higher corrosion protection is exhibited by copolymer coatings and composite-bilayer coatings than the corresponding homopolymer coatings. The composite metal–PANI–PNMA layer shows higher stability and better protection than the metal–PNMA–PANI layer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three sufficient conditions are proposed for an iso-parametric finite element formulation to be immune to mesh-distortion effects, even for extremely distorted element geometries for which the Jacobian geometric mapping goes negative! Illustrative element formulations are presented to test the sufficiency of the proposed conditions. Numerical results confirm that the illustrative elements are indeed capable of giving mesh-distortion immune solution for extreme mesh distortions. This has been possible partly because the stiffness integral is free of the Jacobian term in the new formulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Plasticized poly(vinyl chloride)/poly(ethyl methacrylate) PVC/PEMA-based blend polymer electrolyte films containing lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) as a salt were prepared by solvent casting technique. The effects of the plasticization on structural, thermal and electrical properties of the plasticized polymer blend electrolytes were investigated. The changes in the structural and complex formation properties of the materials were studied by XRD and FTIR techniques. Dielectric relaxation studies of the polymer electrolyte have been undertaken, and the results are discussed. TG/DTA technique is used to study the thermal stability. Complex impedance analysis is used to calculate the bulk resistance of the complexes. The effect of different plasticizer on the structural and physical properties of polymer blend electrolyte is well correlated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A synergistic effect exists between potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and Zn2+ in controlling corrosion of aluminium immersed in an aqueous solution containing 60 ppm of CI- at pH 11 in the absence and presence of Zn2+ The formulation consisting of 250 ppm of KMnO4 and 25 ppm Zn2+ have 98% of inhibition efficiency (IE). A more stable and compact protective film is formed on the metal surface. Polarization study reveals that the KMnO4-Zn2+ system functions as an anodic inhibitor. AC impedance spectra reveal that a protective film is formed on the metal surface. FTIR spectra reveal that the protective film consists of Al-KMnO4 complex and Zn(OH)2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibition efficiency of phenolphthalein in controlling corrosion of carbon steel immersed in well water has been evaluated by mass loss method both in absence and presence of zinc ion. A synergistic effect exists between phenolphthalein (PN) and Zn2+. The inhibition efficiency (IE) of the PN - Zn2+ system decreases with increase in immersion period. Addition of N-Cetyl-N, N, N-Trimethylammlonium bromide (CTAB) sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), sodium sulphite (Na2SO3) does not change the excellent inhibition efficiency of the PN-Zn2+ system. Polarization study suggests that the Pn-Zn2+ system functions as a mixed inhibitor system. AC impedance spectra reveal the presence of a protective film on the metal surface. FTIR spectra indicate that the protective film consists of Fe2+-PN complex and Zn(OH)2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corrosion resistance of three metallic materials, namely, SS 316L, mild steel (MS), and mild steel coated with zinc (MS-Zn) has been evaluated in artificial saliva in the absence and presence of D-Glucose. A potentiodynamic polarization study and AC impedance spectra have been used to investigate the corrosion behavior of these metals. The corrosion resistance of these materials in artificial saliva, in the absence as well as in the presence Of D-Glucose, increased in the following order: SS 316L> MS-Zn> MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxyanions in the presence of Zn2+ ions are used as corrosion inhibitors to prevent the corrosion of carbon steel. However, in view of the toxicity of Zn2+, the focus has now shifted to low- Zn2+ or no- Zn2+ formulations. In order to reduce the concentration of Zn2+ in sodium tungstate- Zn2+ formulations, a second substance, which is environmentally friendly, is desired. Aminotrimethylenephosphonic acid (ATMP) is environment-friendly, forms complexes with metal ions, and possesses passivating properties. In this paper, detailed studies on ATMP as second synergist in the formulation containing relatively low levels of sodium tungstate (ST)-Zn2+ in the corrosion inhibition of carbon steel are presented. Thus, the ternary system containing 50 ppm of ST, 10 ppm of Zn2+ , and 250 ppm of ATMP is quite effective. Potentiodynamic polarization studies showed that this system works as an anodic inhibitor. Surface film has been analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy. A mechanism for the inhibition of corrosion is proposed based on the above results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barlow was the first to propose a method to predict optimal stress recovery points in finite elements (FEs). Prathap proposed an alternative method that is based on the variational principle. The optimal points predicted by Prathap, called Prathap points in this paper, have been reported in the literature for linear, quadratic and cubic elements. Prathap points turn out to be the same as Barlow points for linear and quadratic bar elements but different for cubic bar element. Nevertheless, for all the three elements, Prathap points coincide with the reduced Gaussian integration points. In this paper, an alternative implementation of Prathap's best-fit method is used to compute Prathap points for higher-order (viz., 4–10th order) bar elements. The effectiveness of Prathap points as points of accurate stress recovery is verified by actual FE analysis for typical bar problems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction, definition, rationale and scope: Dermatologists in India are now increasingly performing surgical and cosmetic procedures in their practice. This calls for minimum standards at the national level with the main focus of patient safety and hence the guidelines for setting up a dermatosurgical theatre. Facility: The dermatosurgery theatre can be created in either physician's clinic, or a hospital depending on the procedure to be performed. The dermatosurgery theatre requires careful planning with regards to . location, dimension, shell design, lighting, electrical requirements, operation table, chair, trolley, surgical instruments, sterilization of devices, asepsis and advanced life support. Apart from physical considerations, other considerations including theatre etiquettes, consent for surgery, safety of dermatosurgeon, theatre staff and lastly biomedical waste management should be looked into. These issues are discussed in detail in the recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that the recently introduced unsymmetric 8-node quadrilateral element (US-QUAD8) is highly tolerant to mesh distortions. The high distortion tolerance of US-QUAD8 is due to the ability of the element to satisfy all the desirable compatibility and completeness requirements of the test and trial functions. The element uses isoparametric and metric shape functions as the test and trial functions, respectively. Despite its high distortion tolerance, the element has two defects. The use of metric shape functions as trial functions causes the element to exhibit rotational frame dependence as well as interpolation failure under certain conditions. A detailed investigation into both these problems is reported and remedies are proposed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The FE-LSPIM QUAD4 element, which was recently introduced for the static analysis, uses new shape functions that combine the meshfree and finite element shape functions so as to synergize the individual strengths of meshfree and finite element methods. As a result, the element inherits the completeness properties of meshfree shape functions and the compatibility properties of finite element shape functions. In this paper, the element is extended to free vibration analysis of two-dimensional solids. Typical benchmark problems are solved to test the efficacy of the element. The results show that the element gives more accurate solution than the peer elements particularly under distorted mesh. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Poly(vinyl chloride)/poly(ethyl methacrylate)-based polymer blend electrolytes comprising propylene carbonate as a plasticizer and a lithium salt LiX (X=BF4 −, ClO4 −, CF3SO3 −) are prepared by a solvent casting technique. The electrolytes are subjected to characterization by ionic conductivity, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetic/differential thermal analysis. The electrolytes that contain LiBF4 exhibit maximum conductivity and are thermally stable up to 254°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Composite electrolyte films consisting of poly(vinylchloride), poly(acrylonitrile), ethylene carbonate, LiClO4 and also TiO2 particles have been prepared by solution casting technique. The effect of inorganic filler on the conductivity of the blended polymer electrolyte was studied. A conductivity of (7.57×10−5 Scm−1) is achieved at room temperature for the composition PVC–PAN–LiClO4–EC (4.8–19.2–8–68), whereas it improves two orders of magnitude (4.46×10−3 Scm−1) upon dispersing fine particles of TiO2 as inert filler. The role of ceramic phase is to reduce the melting temperature which is ascertained from the thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) composed of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVdF)–poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) complexed with lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) as salt and ethylene carbonate (EC)/propylene carbonate (PC) as plasticizers were prepared using solvent-casting technique, with different weight ratios of EC and PC. The amorphicity and complexation behavior of the polymer electrolytes were confirmed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR studies. TG/DTA and scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies explained the thermal stability and surface morphology of electrolytes, respectively. The prepared thin films were subjected to AC impedance measurements as a function of temperature ranging from 302 to 373K. The temperature-dependence conductivity of polymer films seems to obey VTF relation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]