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Wearables offer a promising solution for enhancing remote monitoring (RM) of heart failure (HF) patients by tracking key physiological parameters. Despite their potential, their clinical integration faces challenges due to the lack of rigorous evaluations. This review aims to summarize the current evidence and assess the readiness of wearables for clinical practice using the Medical Device Readiness Level (MDRL). A systematic search identified 99 studies from 3112 found articles, with only eight being randomized controlled trials. Accelerometery was the most used measurement technique. Consumer-grade wearables, repurposed for HF monitoring, dominated the studies with most of them in the feasibility testing stage (MDRL 6). Only two of the described wearables were specifically designed for HF RM, and received FDA approval. Consequently, the actual impact of wearables on HF management remains uncertain due to limited robust evidence, posing a significant barrier to their integration into HF care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, pristine calcium titanate (CaTiO3), polyaniline (PANI), binary PANI@carbon black (CB), and ternary PANI@CB/CaTiO3 composites were synthesized using solid-state and in situ oxidative polymerization method. XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis, PL, FE-SEM, and EDX analyses were studied in order to examine the structural, optical, and morphological properties of all grown samples. XRD, FTIR, FESEM, and EDX findings confirmed the formation of successful chemical organization among PANI, CaTiO3, and CB. The UV–Vis and PL investigation reaffirmed the reduction in optical band gap (2.67 eV–2.56 eV) and charge carrier recombination process due to inclusion of CaTiO3 into CB-reinforced polymer matrix. In photocatalytic experiment, PANI@CB/10%CaTiO3 catalyst showed efficacious performance to degrade the synthetic dyes (99.7% MO and 97.8% MB) after 120-min sunlight irradiation with higher rate and superb stability up-to 5th cycle against MO dye. In kinetic examination, pseudo-first-order kinetic model was obeyed by both dyes. Herein, the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) photovoltaic cell was fabricated by spin-coating the grown samples on FTO glass substrate and thermally evaporating the Al electrode subsequently. The BHJ fabricated by PANI@CB/10%CaTiO3 showed better efficiency (0.541%), photocurrent density (Jsc) (4.21 mA/cm2), and open-circuit voltage (Voc) (0.39 V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel Schiff base derivatives (1–28) of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid were synthesized in a multi-step reaction. All the synthesized Schiff bases were obtained in high yields and their structures were determined by 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and HR-ESI–MS spectroscopy. Except for compounds 22, 26, 27, and 28, all derivatives show excellent to moderate α-glucosidase inhibition. Compounds 5 (IC50 = 12.84 ± 0.52 µM), 4 (IC50 = 13.64 ± 0.58 µM), 12 (IC50 = 15.73 ± 0.71 µM), 13 (IC50 = 16.62 ± 0.47 µM), 15 (IC50 = 17.40 ± 0.74 µM), 3 (IC50 = 18.45 ± 1.21 µM), 7 (IC50 = 19.68 ± 0.82 µM), and 2 (IC50 = 20.35 ± 1.27 µM) shows outstanding inhibition as compared to standard acarbose (IC50 = 873.34 ± 1.67 µM). Furthermore, a docking study was performed to find out the interaction between the enzyme and the most active compounds. With this research work, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid Schiff base derivatives have been introduced as a potential class of α-glucosidase inhibitors that have remained elusive till now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, calcium titanate (CaTiO3) doped (0, 15, 25 and 35%) polyaniline (PANI) composites in the presence of dodecylbenzene sulphonic acid (DBSA) were successfully synthesized by the means of in-situ emulsion polymerization of aniline monomer. The structural, morphological and optical characterization of as-prepared composites were determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field effect scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, UV–vis analysis, and electronic conductivity was determined using two-point probe method. The structural analysis confirms that PANI–DBSA is amorphous, but sharp peaks present in XRD patterns in composites are of crystalline nature. The morphological study reveals efficacious integration of CaTiO3 particles into the PANI–DBSA matrix. Further, the integration of CaTiO3 remarkably reduced the optical bandgap (2.7–2.2 eV) by making composites with PANI–DBSA. Room temperature alternating current conductivity was found to obey universal power law and correlated barrier hopping was found most appropriate model to describe the sample's charge transport mechanism. With the increasing wt% of CaTiO3, the dielectric permittivity and loss both varied according to the interfacial polarization law of Maxwell–Wagner. Moreover, the I–V graphs showed augmented electrical conductivity of composites with an increase in CaTiO3 particle content than that of pure PANI–DBSA. This is a simple way by which PANI–DBSA/CaTiO3 composites having low optical bandgap, high electrical conductivity and permittivity may be fabricated for a widespread technological application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water electrolysis is a propitious strategy to overcome the exceeding energy crisis by producing renewable and green hydrogen fuel. However, the practical application of this process is limited due to the inadequacy of earth-rich, economical, and efficient electrocatalysts for carrying out kinetically more sluggish oxygen evolution reactions (OER). In the present research, a simple sol–gel method was employed to produce Co3O4/Pr2O3 nanocomposite material, which provides exceptional electrical conductivity and lesser charge transfer resistance of mixed-valence cations. The fabricated nanomaterials were analyzed using various scientific techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to determine their crystal structure, morphology, elemental composition, and oxidation states. To investigate the water oxidation capability and steadiness of the modified Co3O4/Pr2O3 electrode material in alkaline conditions, cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and constant current chronoamperometry (CA) were utilized. These outcomes revealed that the resultant nanocomposite exhibits a minimal overpotential around 257 mV and a lower Tafel slope around 78 mVdec−1 at a benchmark current density of 10 mAcm−2. In addition, the alkaline solution reliability of the electrocatalysts was examined and confirmed to be steady for 24 h via chronoamperometry. The extraordinary electrocatalytic achievement of Co3O4/Pr2O3 is ascribed to its structural synergistic effect, which encourages the oxygen evolution activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental SDGs, or Sustainable Development Goals, are a set of targets outlined by the United Nations to address the most pressing environmental issues of our time. These goals aim to promote sustainable development by addressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. By achieving these goals, we can safeguard the planet's resources for future generations while improving the quality of life for people around the world. This research investigates the effect of environmental SDGs on economic growth (GDPGRO) at the disaggregated level, with two dimensions: economic and social goals. Using panel data from selected SAARC countries between 2000 and 2020, we employ a panel ARDL (PMG) technique. The finding of this study shows that increasing access to SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 13 (climate action), and SSDGs (social Sustainable Development Goals) is negatively associated with potential decreases in economic growth which can occur in several ways, such as increased government spending and taxes, redistributive policies, and regulations that increase costs for businesses. Promoting SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production) can lead to long-term economic growth. SDG 15 (life below water) and ESDGs (economic Sustainable Development Goals) have a positive relationship with economic growth by conserving and sustainably using terrestrial ecosystems that can contribute to economic growth in the long term. ESDGs lead to increased income, improved living standards, and reduced poverty and inequality. Policies should prioritize disaster risk mitigation, align climate change goals with sustainable development goals, and promote sustainable production and consumption. This can be achieved by incentivizing cleaner energy sources and sustainable cities. To balance economic growth with sustainability, policies should encourage responsible business practices and sustainable industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a facile approach to fabricate MoS2 and graphene oxide (GO) composites using single-step hydrothermal method to achieve excellent electrochemical properties for energy storage applications, like lithium-ion batteries. Supportive 2D structure of MoS2 material provides direct path for the electron’s flow. MoS2 and graphene oxide (GO) composites provide large surface area for intercalation of ions into/out of active materials due to their layered morphology and also minimize the path for electron transfer. The morphology of samples is studied under XRD, SEM, and TEM. The investigation confirms the formation of composites and increment in crystallinity with doping of MoS2 on graphene oxide (GO) surface. Electrochemical properties are characterized by cyclic voltammogram (CV). As a result, composite MoS2 + GO with 3% weight ratio of graphene oxide (GO) gives best cyclic stability of 740 mAh/g at low current density 100 mA/g just after 160 cycles presenting excellent improvement in electrochemical performance as electrode material in lithium-ion batteries. The structural, electronic, and optical calculations of MoS2/graphene heterostructure have been performed using the density-functional theory. The MoS2/Graphene heterostructure reveals the zero band gap due to high electronic conductivity. The calculated absorption and optical conductivity find to be high in optical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In situ polymerization of aniline was carried out with calcium titanate, in order to synthesize polyaniline/calcium titanate composites by the chemical oxidation in the presence of ammonium persulfate as an oxidizing agent. To study the effect of calcium titanate on the properties of polyaniline (PANI), PANI/calcium titanate (CaTiO3) composites were synthesized with different weight percentages (15, 25, and 35 wt %) of calcium titanate. The structural and morphological analysis was carried out by XRD and SEM, while their electrical properties were studied by temperature-dependent dc conductivity. Thermal properties were also studied, and seebeck coefficient and thermoelectric power studies demonstrated a strong dependence on the weight percentage of calcium titanate in the pure polyaniline. The charge transport mechanism was investigated by temperature-dependent dc electrical conductivity measurements in the temperature range of 303–483 K. Further, an increase in dc conductivity was found on the inclusion of calcium titanate at all temperatures, and the most probable model of charge transport was found to be three-dimensional variable range hopping (3D-VRH) for pure polyaniline while switching to one-dimensional variable range hopping (1D-VRH) in the case of its composites with calcium titanate that has been interpreted in terms of linearization and straightening of polymer chains. The calcium titanate content not only influenced the electrical conductivity but the thermoelectric properties of the resulting composites as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modernization produces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions but is also able to achieve sustainable agriculture growth by introducing the concept of renewable energy into the agriculture sector, and through this process reduce the CO2 emissions in the country. The main objective of this research is to check the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis with CO2 emissions and economic development in renewable energy and agriculture subsectors such as fisheries and crop production in Pakistan. This study covers the time period 1984 to 2020. We have applied the autoregressive distribution lag (ARDL) bound test. The results indicate the existence of long-term association among all variables in the model. The result of co-integration in the short run shows a negative relationship between CO2 emissions and crop production in the current time period, and it shows a positive correlation with the first lag of CO2 emission, which means that current crop production reduces the CO2 emissions by 32% during a year, while in the lag period, it will increase in the short run. In the long run, a 1% increase in crop production will reduce the CO2 emission by 86%. Renewable energy shows a negative relation with CO2 emissions in the short run; a 1% increase in renewable energy will reduced the CO2 by 0.017%. Our results support the existence of the EKC hypothesis for Pakistan. In light of the findings, it is suggested that policy makers should focus more on renewable energy to decrease the level of CO2 as much as possible. Moreover, the government must provide subsidies for machines used for cropping and give special attention to subsectors such as livestock and fisheries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In situ chemical polymerization method was used to synthesize the polyaniline (PANI) and polyaniline cadmium oxide (PANI-CdO) nanocomposites. The morphology and structure of pure PANI and PANI-CdO nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, whereas electrical properties were studied by dielectric, electric modulus and a.c conductivity. Various dopant-to-polymer ratios were used to investigate their effect on the characteristics of the synthesized samples. The SEM images exhibited granular as well as flaky structures of PANI and PANI-CdO nanocomposites. The XRD patterns revealed that pure PANI exhibits amorphous nature, while PANI-CdO nanocomposites exhibit polycrystalline nature. The crystallinity and intensity of (XRD) peaks of composite are enhanced by increasing CdO contents. The dielectric measurements show a decrease in dielectric constant, dielectric loss and a decrease in tangent loss with the increase in frequency and nearly constant values at higher frequencies, while the values of dielectric properties increase with the rise in temperature and doping concentration. The electric field modulus was used to analyze the relaxation behavior of the synthesized samples and found to be increased with frequency and decreased with the temperature and CdO concentration. The a.c conductivity was observed to increase with the increase in frequency and temperature for PANI and PANI-CdO composites. The changing behavior of the frequency exponent (S) at various temperatures was analyzed to observe different conduction mechanisms, and a correlated barrier hopping model (CBH) was found to be observed in PANI-CdO composites as well as in pure PANI. The Log a.c conductivity decreases versus the inverse of temperature and with increase in frequency that confirms that the hopping mechanism is the dominant charge transport mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood polymer composites (WPCs) are considered as one of the highly competent classes of hybrid composite materials having potential applications in automotive, furniture, and construction industry. In this present study, fabrication of PP-g-MA compatibilized PP-wood flour composites was accomplished utilizing melt blending extrusion. The extruder was operated at a temperature profile of 180–210 °C. Wood flour, prior to its incorporation in polymeric material, was sieved to get fine wood flour particles. Compression-molded specimens of composites were characterized for their morphological attributes and for the determination of their chemical makeup, mechanical features, and thermal stability. FTIR analysis determined the chemical makeup of WPCs. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed the thermal stability of composites at temperature higher than 280 °C. Composites were rated as V2 grade according to their flammability performance. SEM analysis manifested the dispersed state of wood flour in the PP matrix. Mechanical properties manifested the increased stiffness of WPCs owing to increase in loading of wood flour which was associated with the restricted motion of polymer chains imparted by the wood flour particles. Surface topology study of in-hole drilled surface was also carried out by performing machining of WPCs for the analysis of surface roughness as a function of drill speed. Furthermore, the environmental sustainability of WPCs machining was demonstrated, and the reduction in waste generation through drilling of composites was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change exhibits great variation on different flanks and at different elevations in the same mountain range. To investigate the complexity of the geographic patterns of climate and phenology in the Qinling–Daba mountains (QDM), in the North–South transition zone of China, this study analyzed the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of daily air temperature and precipitation data measured at 118 national weather stations (1969–2018). The principal findings were as follows. (1) Overall, a significant trend of warming was detected in all seasons over the past 50 years, with rates of increase of 0.347, 0.125, 0.200 and 0.302 °C/10a, in spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively. Precipitation did not show significant variation at most stations in different seasons. (2) The rising rate of air temperature varied considerably between different flanks. Generally, air temperature change on northern flanks was greater than on southern flanks in all seasons. The tendency of air temperature change was greater in spring and winter than in summer and autumn on different flanks in the QDM. (3) The rate of increase in high-elevation regions was greater than in low-elevation regions in summer, autumn and winter, e.g., 0.440, 0.390 and 0.456 °C/10a at 3000–4000 m and 0.205, 0.218 and 0.303 °C/10a at 0–1000 m, respectively. However, in spring, the rate of increase in low-elevation regions were higher than in high-elevation regions, e.g., 0.369 °C/10a at 0–1000 m and 0.317 °C/10a at 3000–4000 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we construct new explicit formulas for the Drazin inverse of P + Q under some conditions, where P and Q are singular square matrices over skew fields. These formulas generalize some recent results in literature. By using these formulas, we establish new results for the Drazin inverse of 2 × 2 block matrix under some assumptions over skew fields. Finally, illustrative numerical examples over skew fields are presented to demonstrate results of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The basic aim of this research work is to synthesize polyaniline and polyaniline-cadmium oxide nanocomposites with different concentrations by using in-situ chemical polymerization methods. The effect of cadmium oxide content on structural and morphological features of the polyaniline matrix are discussed in detail. As the concentration of cadmium oxide in polyaniline matrix augments, then crystallinity of the nanocomposites increases. Two probe methods for temperature dependent dielectric measurements revealed that electrical conductivity of nanocomposites increases with increase in temperature and cadmium oxide content. The response of permittivity to temperature is increased with increasing the cadmium oxide concentration in the nanocomposite and frequency. Four probe methods of Seebeck coefficients exhibit linear increase for nanocomposites with temperature as well as cadmium oxide content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals contaminate the soil that alters the properties of soil and negatively affect plants growth. Using microorganism and plant can remove these pollutants from soil. The present investigation was designed to evaluate the induced effect of Bacillus pumilus on maize plant in Cadmium (Cd) contaminated soil. Three different concentrations of Cd (i.e. 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75 mg kg−1) were applied in soil under which maize plants were grown. The germination percentage, shoot length, leaf length, number of leaves, root length, fresh weight and nutrient uptake by maize plant were determined. The experiment was conducted by using complete randomized design (CRD) with three replicates. The result indicated that germination percentage, Shoot length, leaf length, root length, number of leaves, and plant fresh weight were reduced by 37, 39, 39, 32 and 59% respectively at 0.75 mg kg−1 of CdSO4 concentration but when maize seeds inoculated with Bacillus pumilus significantly increased the germination percentage, shoot length, leaf length, number of leaves, plant fresh weight at different concentrations of CdSO4. Moreover, the plant protein were significantly increased by 60% in T6 (0.25 mg kg−1 of CdSO4 + inoculated seed) and Peroxidase dismutase (POD) was also significantly higher by 346% in T6 (0.25 mg kg−1 of CdSO4 + inoculated seed), however, the Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly higher in T5 (0.75 mg kg−1 of CdSO4 + uninoculated seed) and was 769% higher as compared to control. The Cd contents in Bacillus pumilus inoculated maize roots and shoots were decreased. The present investigations indicated that the inoculation of maize plant with Bacillus pumilus can help maize plants to withstand Cd stress but higher concentration of Cd can harm the plant. The Bacillus pumilus has good potential to remediate Cd from soil, and also have potential to reduce the phyto availability and toxicity of Cd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In situ chemical polymerization technique was used to synthesize polyaniline (PANI) and polyaniline сadmium oxide (PANI/CdO) composites with different weight percentage of CdO dopant. Structure and morphology of pure and synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by XRD and SEM techniques. Different weight percentage of CdO dopant was used to verify their effects on these characteristics. The XRD results represent better crystallinity and show more intense peaks of PANI/CdO composites with addition of CdO nano particles. The SEM investigations of PANI/CdO сomposites show well intercalary, agglomerated platelet as well as flaky structure. Current density−voltage (J–V) characteristics of ITO/PANI/Cu, ITO/PANI-CdO composites/Cu fabricated Schottky diodes were investigated at room and some elevated temperatures in the potential window ±20 V. The junction parameters such as saturation current density, ideality factor and barrier height were calculated and found to be influenced by the doping concentration of CdO as well as temperature variation. The electrical behavior of PANI with CdO was found to be in good agreement with the thermionic emission model for the Schottky barrier type devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stresses are the prime coercion to sustainable crop production in changing climate scenario. Heat and drought stresses at reproductive as well as vegetative stages of rice cause extensive reduction in its yield. Being a multifunctional amino acid, proline is being used to diminish numerous biotic and abiotic stresses of plants. A pot experiment was conducted in summer season 2018, to check the effectiveness of foliar applied proline in mitigating the concurrent effects of heat and drought stresses on rice, at greenhouse/screenhouse of Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Experiment was carried out under completely randomized design with split arrangement having three replications. Stress was imposed at anthesis with treatments viz. drought stress, heat stress and heat plus drought stress as a main factor, and various levels of exogenously applied proline viz. no proline/water spray, 10, 20 and 30 mM concentrations were maintained as subfactor. A control (no stress imposed) was upheld for comparison. Stress treatments: drought, heat and heat plus drought stress at anthesis stage depressed the production of antioxidants, osmoprotectants and chlorophyll contents while causing overproduction of malondialdehyde content. Exogenous proline application upregulated activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), total soluble proteins (TSP), leaf proline and glycine betaine contents and diminution in lipid peroxidation resulting into improvement in chlorophyll contents and eventually yield per plant. Concurrent heat and drought stresses were more perilous as compared to individually applied heat or drought stress and 30 mM proline application gave maximum alleviation against stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypyrrole (PPy) conducting polymer was prepared via oxidative polymerization of pyrrole monomers and the existence of oxidant such as ammonium persulphate (APS). Subsequently, similar method was adopted to get doped polypyrrole and its PPy-DBSA-Y2O3 composites. The phase of the prepared materials was elucidated using X-ray diffraction. The SEM/EDX analysis confirmed the dual phase structure of platelet and flakier shape in PPy-DBSA-Y2O3 composite and the presence of yttrium oxide. The UV–Vis as well as photoluminescence band show various electronic levels present in PPy-DBSA-Y2O3 composites. Synthesis of PPy-DBSA-Y2O3 composite with a large real dielectric modulus and lower optical band gap is appropriate semiconductor material for optoelectronic devices applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this research work is to synthesize polypyrrole (PPy) and polypyrrole (PPy)-cadmium oxide (CdO) nanocomposites with different concentrations by using in-situ chemical polymerization method. Thin films of the synthesized composites were prepared by doctor blade method. The samples were characterized by XRD technique and four probe method to find the structure and electrical conductivity of the prepared (PPy-CdO) nanocomposites. The XRD of PPy shows amorphous nature due to single broad peak. XRD of pure CdO shows crystalline nature due to sharp peaks. In the XRD of (PPy-CdO) nanocomposites, sharp peaks are obtained which shows the crystalline nature of composites. As the concentration of CdO is increasing, the sharp peaks shift towards lower angles and d-spacing is increasing that may attribute to increase in crystallite size of nanocomposites. The DC electrical conductivity of nanocomposites was calculated by four- probe method at room temperature. Results reveal that by increasing the concentration of CdO in PPy, the conductivity of the nanocomposite is also increasing. Schottky diode characteristics were taken by two probe method. From the obtained I–V curves, it was concluded that only space charge limited current (SCLC) holds in our case at higher voltages which is suitable for Schottky diode applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the effect of neodymium on the barium-based spinel ferrites has been investigated. A series of spinel ferrites with compositions BaNdyFe2-yO4 (y = 0.00, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, 0.10) was synthesized by the sol–gel technique. These spinel ferrites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electrical properties, and magnetic properties. X-ray analysis ascertained the formation of single-phase cubic spinel structure for all samples, while some traces of second phase recognized as orthorhombic phase NdrFeO3 in the last two samples. There was an overall increase in the lattice parameter as neodymium (Nd) contents were substituted. There was a regular increase in bulk density and X-ray density with the increase in neodymium concentration. Electrical measurements demonstrate that resistivity and activation energy increase with the neodymium substitution, while dc resistivity decreases with the rise of temperature showing the semiconductor nature of the synthesized ferrites. Curie temperature dropped with the substitution of neodymium concentration. Magnetic properties of the synthesized materials were studied between applied magnetic field range − 2 KOe and + 2 KOe and corresponding M–H loops were obtained. The saturation magnetization and remanence decreased on the substitution of Nd while coercivity (Hc) values enhanced. The smaller values of anisotropic constant exhibited the isotropic nature of these ferrites. The prepared spinel ferrites might be suitable for high-frequency multilayer chip inductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a facile strategy to synthesized the PPy-DBSA-Y2O3 composites with increasing amount of Y2O3 (2%, 4% and 8%) by in situ polymerization method. The samples were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM and dielectric spectroscopy. Structural and morphological analysis reveals the conformation of composite formation, increase in crystallinity and particle size also increased by doping Y2O3 into PPy-DBSA matrix. The frequency dependent AC conductivity (σac), dielectric constant (ε′) and loss factor (ε″) were measured in the frequency range from 20 Hz to 1 MHz. All measured quantities; σac, ε′ and ε″ are enhanced with increase in Y2O3 content in the composites at all frequencies. Dielectric constant value for all samples is very high at low frequency however decreases with increase in frequency. Synthesis of PPy-DBSA-Y2O3 composite materials with a large dielectric constant is very important for the improvement of electronic devices applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoplastic polyurethane/polyaniline-based stretchable strain sensors were prepared via in situ polymerization of aniline in the TPU solution in the form of thin films. The sensors where characterized for morphological and thermal properties, mechanical hysteresis and cyclic piezoelectric performance. Thermogravimetric analysis showed blends to be thermally stable up to 230 °C. Electrical conductivity increased up to 30 wt% of Ani.DBSA loading after which a decline was observed due to reduced conversion of aniline monomer to polyaniline. Piezo-resistive measurements also showed a decrease in electrical conductivity upon stretching due to disconnection mechanism between Ani.DBSA particles. The cyclic piezo-resistive properties were evaluated at a strain of 10%. The sensors showed a gauge factor of 2.59. The dispersion and distribution was uniform at all levels of Ani.DBSA loading as visualized by SEM analysis. Beside uniform dispersion, SEM analysis also revealed polyaniline chains connecting with the polyurethane matrix which increases its conductivity. Hence, the proposed sensors can be employed as flexible strain sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to evaluate the concentration of essential elements (Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Se, Zn, and B) and non-essential elements (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr, As, and Ni) in muscle, liver, bone, and intestine of matured cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis). Sampling was carried out at two sites of Lahore, Pakistan—Havalian Karbath (site I) and Mehmood Booti (site II)—over a period of 1 month in the winter season. Metal analyses of samples were carried out using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICPMS). The trend of essential elements in liver and intestine of site I was noticed as Fe > Zn > Cu > B > Mn > Se > Ni and almost same for bone and muscle as Fe > Zn > B > Mn > Cu > Se > Ni. It was noticed that Cu was less deposited in bone and muscle tissues compared to liver and intestine from site I. The deposition of essential elements in liver and intestine from site II was noticed as Fe > Zn > Cu > Mn > B > Se > Ni. Similar trend was found for bone and muscle: Fe > Zn > B > Mn > Cu > Se > Ni with great deposition of B than Cu compared to liver and intestine. The findings of the present study revealed almost similar trend for essential elements deposition at both sites. However, a random trend was observed for deposition of non-essential elements (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb) in organs from both sites. Moreover, data showed higher levels of non-essential elements accumulation (particularly As, Ba, and Pb) in the body tissues/organs of cattle egret in an urban area (site II) as compared to rural area (site I) of Lahore. Furthermore, non-essential elements were more in intestine, bone, and muscles from site II showing more exposure to some non-essential elements at urban site due to human and natural activities. However, higher concentration of non-essential elements in liver from site I as compared to other organs not only reflect the land exposure to plant growth promoting fertilizers and sewage water for irrigation purpose but also better detoxification abilities of the rural birds. The study gave a new insight to inform contamination levels in the rural and urban sites. Future implications of this study need remediation strategies to clean environment requisite for avian species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composites of doped polypyrrole (PPy) with dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles have been prepared by in-situ polymerization method. The structural properties of synthesized polypyrrole and PPy-DBSA-ZrO2 were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. XRD pattern show that PPy-DBSA is intercalated into the layers of ZrO2 successfully and thus the degree of crystallinity increases due to crystalline nature of ZrO2. FTIR analysis indicated that there is a strong interaction between PPy-DBSA and ZrO2 nanoparticles. Electronic properties (dielectric and conductivity) of PPy and PPy-DBSA-ZrO2 composite have been investigated between frequency ranges from 20 Hz to 1M Hz. Higher dielectric constants and dielectric losses of PPy-DBSA-ZrO2 composites than those of synthesized PPy and PPy-DBSA were found. As the content of ZrO2 increased, the dielectric constant and loss also increased. The value of dielectric constant for all samples is very high at low frequency but decreases with increase in frequency. Synthesis of PPy-DBSA-ZrO2 composite materials with a large dielectric constant is essential for the improvement of a novel generation dynamic RAM and in charge storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six samples consisting of polypyrrole (PPy), pure NiFe2O4 ferrite, and their composites at ratio of 1:4 (PF1), 1:2 (PF2), 3:4 (PF3), and 1:1 (PF4) have been prepared by a coprecipitation method and their structural, electrical, dielectric, and magnetic properties measured experimentally. The direct-current (DC) resistivity was enhanced with increasing ferrite content, while the dielectric constant and loss decreased. The magnetic properties of all the composites and the ferrite revealed a narrow loop, confirming their soft nature. The saturation magnetization, remanence, and coercivity values increased with increasing ferrite content. The obtained parameter values suggest that such materials might be suitable for use in high-frequency applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a facile strategy to synthesize poly-aniline/molybdenum disulfide (PANI/MoS2) nano-composite by in situ chemical polymerization to achieve excellent electrochemical properties for application as super-capacitor electrodes. MoS2 nano-composite is prepared by a hydrothermal method and serves as an excellent 2D conductive skeleton and provides a direct path for electrons. The layered nanostructure of PANI/MoS2 composites provides a larger contact surface area for the intercalation of particles into/out of active materials and shortens the path length for electrolyte ion transport. The structure morphology is characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM and FTIR. Structural and morphological analysis reveals conformation composite formation, increase in crystallinity and particle size increased with doping by rapping of PANI on MOS2 surface. Excellent electrochemical performances of the samples are characterised and are evaluated by cyclic voltammogram, impedance and galvanostatic charge/discharge curve. The maximum specific capacitance of 453 F kg−1 at 1 Ag−1 is observed at the PANI-1%MoS2 electrodes. The energy density of 69 Wh kg−1 is obtained at a power density of 1380 W kg−1, impedance decreased from 5 Ω (PANI) to 2 Ω (1%PANI/MoS2) indicating a positive synergistic effect MoS2 and PANI for the improvement of electrochemical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

V2O3 samples were successfully prepared using [VOSO4·xH2O] as the starting material by a template-free hydrothermal method with the addition of KBrO3. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The XRD result shows the rhombohedral structure for V2O3 with an average crystallite size in the range of 22 nm. With the increase in reaction time (6-8 h), the morphology of the samples changes from nano-flower to nano-ribbons as indicated by SEM micrographs. FTIR spectrum shows that the band at 1286 cm−1, related to C-OH stretching and OH bending vibrations and indicate the presence of residual hydroxyl groups. The electrochemical measurements show an excellent storage response, kinetics and reversibility of the electrode material. Further, good rate capability of the materials was also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the cadmium selenide quantum dots/polyaniline nanocomposites were prepared by in-situ polymerization technique and they were characterized using X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The surface morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy. The electrical and dielectric properties were investigated by using 4-probe mechanism and LCR meter respectively. The increase in dielectric constant was observed with the increase of quantum dots content in the nanocomposites. The frequency dependent AC conductivity followed the universal power law. The temperature dependent DC conductivity was found to be a typical for a semiconducting behavior following Mott's 1D variable range hoping model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conducting polymer nanocomposites of polyaniline with ZnNiCrFeO nanoparticles were synthesized by in situ chemical polymerization. The sample properties were studied by X-ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Above techniques confirmed the formation of two phase system. The dielectric permittivity, magnetic permeability and microwave absorption properties of the polyaniline-ferrite composites were carried out in the 4-18 GHz frequency range. Conductivity was found to have an impact on microwave absorbing properties. The composite with 25 wt% of ferrite content has shown better absorption properties with wide band gap in whole Ku band. This value of absorption suggests that this composite can be used as a potential radar absorbing material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypyrrole (PPy)-ZnNiCrFeO core-shell nanocomposites have been fabricated by in situ chemical polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of ZnNiCr ferrite nanoparticles. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffractometer, FTIR spectroscopy, TGA/DTA analysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Dielectric and Magnetic properties were investigated by using impedance analyzer and vibrating sample magnetometer respectively. The results of XRD, FTIR showed the presence of the two intended phases. FE-SEM results confirm the formation of core-shell structure. Possible bonding effect between metal cations and PPy resulted in the decrease of the conductivity with increase of ferrite content. Below 500 °C, the TGA and DTA results confirm the thermal stability of these samples. Incorporation of ferrites in the conducting Polypyrrole matrix leads to higher values of dielectric constant and dielectric loss. Under applied magnetic field, the Hysteresis measurements revealed that coercivity, saturation magnetization and remanance were tuned to such values that made the investigated samples suitable for microwave devices and switching applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnNiCrFeO nanopowder and its composite with polyaniline were successfully prepared by using wow sol-gel and in situ chemical polymerization respectively. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Dielectric properties were investigated as function of frequency by using impedance analyzer. The results showed the presence of the two intended phases. The ac conductivity was found to obey Jonscher's universal power law. The dielectric constant and loss showed dispersion in low frequency region. Impedance analysis revealed the semiconducting behavior of the investigated samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of single phase Y-type hexagonal ferrites having chemical formula BaZnNdFeO ( x = 0-0.1) were prepared by sol-gel technique. The X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the ferrites belong to the family of single phase Y-type hexagonal ferrites. The grain size estimated from electron microscope images confirms the crystalline nature of the investigated samples and well defined hexagonal platelet-like shape is a most suitable shape for applications. The increase in resistivity is attributed to the removal of low energy pathway due to doping cation placement at octahedral site. The enhancement in resistivity makes these materials suitable for multi-layer chip inductors. The dielectric constant decreases due to lowering of dipole moment with substitution. The frequency dependent ac conductivity increases with increase in frequency and decrease with Nd doping. The conductivity mechanism so determined was hopping mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental concerns relating to gaseous emissions from transport have led to growth in the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) as transportation fuel worldwide with over 19 million natural gas vehicles (NGVs) currently in operation. This paper reviews the environmental advantages of natural gas fuel, presenting laboratory and real world comparative emission performance of NGVs with diesel and gasoline fueled vehicles. The aim is to clarify the worldwide experience of NGVs in terms of various emission factors i.e. CO $$_{2}$$ , CO, NO $$_\mathrm{x}$$ , NMHC and PM. The paper provides a critical analysis of information collected and draws general conclusions on the world-wide NGVs experience. The results reveal that CNG in public transportation can contribute to the improvement of urban air, reduce adverse health effects and social costs of air pollution. It was observed that on a well-to-wheels basis, CNG produce less greenhouse gases as compared to conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles. The results showed that there is large variation in the resulted NMHC emission data of CNG fuel. Some studies reveal that CNG can significantly reduce NMHC emission while other concluded that CNG increase the NHMC emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypyrrole-ZnNiMnFeO nanocomposites are conducting polymer-ferrites with useful properties and new functions. The ferrite and polypyrrole-ferrite nanocomposites were synthesized by wow sol gel and in situ chemical polymerization respectively. The structures, morphology, electrical and magnetic properties of the samples were characterized by various instruments. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) showed the presence of the two intended phases. FE-SEM results show that phase separation was found to increase with increase of ferrite contents. The crystallite size measured by XRD was found to be in the range 40.9-88.6 nm. Possible bonding effect between metal cations and Polypyrrole (PPy) made the electronic density of the polymer chain reduce and hence resulted in the decrease of the conductivity. The room temperature dielectric measurements were performed in the frequency range 0.1 kHz-1 MHz. The dielectric constant followed the Maxwell-Wagner interfacial polarization. The frequency dependent conductivity obeyed a power law of frequency. Incorporation of ferrites in the conducting polypyrrol matrix leads to higher values of dielectric constant and dielectric loss. The loss tangent was found to have high values for composite materials as compared to pure samples. Under applied magnetic field, the Hysteresis measurements revealed that the saturation magnetization increased with increase in ferrite content. Anisotropy constant K values showed that grains were not single domains and anisotropy contribution is not uniaxial. In general the different variety of the results obtained by just changing the relative percentage of PPy-Zn,Ni,Mn ferrites nanocomposites, made the present studied samples to be useful in radiation absorption and shielding applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocrystalline spinel ferrites of nominal stoichiometry NiZnMnFeO ( x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) were synthesized by chemical co-precipitation. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed formation of a single cubic phase with no metal oxide secondary phase; increased intensity of peaks of the doped samples suggests that, in the range studied, substituents are completely dissolved in the cubic lattice. Grain size was measured by scanning electron microscopy, by use of the line intercept method. Dielectric measurements were obtained as a function of frequency in the range 20 Hz to 3 MHz. It was found that hopping conduction was the predominant mechanism of conduction in frequency-dependent alternating current conductivity. Conductivity relaxation of the charge carriers was examined by use of the electrical modulus formalism; the results were indicative of the presence of the non-Debye-type relaxation in the ferrites. The grain boundary contribution was clearly apparent from Cole-Cole plots. Hysteresis loops for all the samples were narrow with low values of coercivity and retentivity, indicative of the superparamagnetic nature of these samples. On the basis of these sample characteristics it is suggested that Ni-Zn-Mn ferrites may be potential candidates for hyperthermia applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present investigation was carried out to study the influence of genetic and non-genetic factors affecting post-weaning performance traits in Thalli sheep. Data on post-weaning growth of Thalli sheep maintained at Livestock Experiment Station, Rakh Ghulaman, District Bhakkar-Punjab, Pakistan during 1977-2003 were subjected to genetic analysis. The average values for weight at 180 and 270 days of age, yearling weight and post-weaning average daily gain were 22.37 ± 4.21, 25.96 ± 4.90 and 28.93 ± 5.20 kg and 28 ± 0.01 g/day, respectively. Weight at 180, 270 and 365 days of age and post-weaning average daily gain were significantly affected by year of birth, sex, type of birth and weaning weight (covariable) whereas season of birth was a significant source of variation for 180 and 270 days of age. The heritability estimates for 180 and 270 days, yearling weight and post-weaning average daily gain were 0.07 ± 0.02, 0.08 ± 0.02, 0.07 ± 0.02 and 0.07 ± 0.02, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we give some results for the Drazin inverse of a modified matrix $$M=A-CD^dB$$ with the generalized Schur complement $$Z=D-BA^dC$$ under some conditions. Further, we present some new results for the Drazin inverse of the modified matrix $$M=A-CD^dB$$ , when the generalized Schur complement $$Z=0$$ under some conditions. As a result, some conclusions are obtained directly from our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have performed autozygosity mapping on a large consanguineous Pakistani family segregating with intellectual disability. We identified two large regions of homozygosity-by-descent (HBD) on 16q12.2-q21 and 16q24.1-q24.3. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed on an affected individual from the family, but initially, no obvious mutation was detected. However, three genes within the HBD regions that were not fully captured during the WES were Sanger sequenced and we identified a five base pair deletion (actually six base pairs deleted plus one base pair inserted) in exon 7 of the gene FBXO31. The variant segregated completely in the family, in recessive fashion giving a LOD score of 3.95. This variant leads to a frameshift and a premature stop codon and truncation of the FBXO31 protein, p.(Cys283Asnfs*81). Quantification of mRNA and protein expression suggests that nonsense-mediated mRNA decay also contributes to the loss of FBXO31 protein in affected individuals. FBXO31 functions as a centrosomal E3 ubiquitin ligase, in association with SKP1 and Cullin-1, involved in ubiquitination of proteins targeted for degradation. The FBXO31/SKP1/Cullin1 complex is important for neuronal morphogenesis and axonal identity. FBXO31 also plays a role in dendrite growth and neuronal migration in developing cerebellar cortex. Our finding adds further evidence of the involvement of disruption of the protein ubiquitination pathway in intellectual disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites of polyaniline with yttrium oxide (YO) nanoparticles have been prepared by chemical polymerizations method by increasing the weight percentage of yttrium oxide. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectra (FTIR) were used to characterize the composites. XRD and FTIR pattern indicate that Polyaniline (PANI) is intercalated into the layers of YO nanoparticles successfully by in situ polymerization and therefore the degree of crystallinity increases due to crystalline of yttrium oxide nanoparticles. The scanning electron micrographs (SEM) also confirm the formation of dual phase of platelet as well as of flaky structure in PANI-YO. Temperature dependant DC conductivity showed three dimensional variable ranges hopping (3D VRH) model. Activation energy, density of states and hopping length are calculated and found to be influenced by intercalating PANI into the layers of YO clay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites of polyaniline with yttrium oxide (YO) have been synthesized by chemical polymerization method. The structural properties of synthesized Polyaniline (PANI) and PANI/YO were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. XRD pattern indicate that PANI is intercalated into the layers of YO successfully and therefore the degree of crystallinity increases due to crystalline of YO. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) indicated that there is a strong interaction between PANI and YO. Electronic properties (Dielectric and Conductivity) of PANI and PANI/YO composite have been investigated between frequency ranges of 1 MHz and 3.0 GHz. Higher dielectric constants and dielectric losses of PANI/YO composites than those of Synthesis PANI were found. As the content of YO increased, the dielectric constant and loss also increased. The value of dielectric constant (ε/) for all PANI/YO composite is very high at low frequency but decreases with the increases of frequency. PANI/YO composite materials with high dielectric constants are highly desirable for use in charge-storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although most cut slopes in Ohio consist of inter-layered, sub-horizontal units of hard and soft sedimentary rocks (sandstone, limestone, dolostone, shale, claystone, mudstone), slopes consisting of relatively thick hard rock units are not uncommon. Design of stable cut slopes in hard rock units needs to consider rock mass strength and orientation of discontinuities with respect to slope face. Results of kinematic stability analyses show that hard-rock cut slopes are less likely to have conventional plane and wedge failures, caused by unfavorable orientation of discontinuities. The main cause of failure is identified to be the undercutting-induced toppling, which is not amenable to traditional kinematic or rock mass strength-based analyses. Therefore, to recommend a suitable slope angle, numerical models, using UDEC software, were employed to study how various slope angles affect the process of undercutting-induced toppling failures. The UDEC models showed a slope angle of 45° (1H:1 V) to be the most stable angle. However, a 63° (0.5H:1 V) slope angle can significantly reduce the potential for such failures and is therefore more appropriate than the widely used angle of 76° (0.25H:1 V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypyrrole is synthesized and doped with Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid. The doped Polypyrrole with Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid is intercalated into the layers of Montmorillonite clay successfully by in situ polymerization. The structural properties of synthesized doped Polypyrrole and intercalated doped Polypyrrole were studied by XRD analysis. The crystallinity of intercalated doped Polypyrrole into the layers of Montmorillonite clay is confirmed by means of X-rays diffraction studies, which is more than the doped Polypyrrole. Enhanced d-spacing of Montmorillonite confirmed that doped Polypyrrole is interclated into the layers of Montmorillonite clay at nanoscale. The scanning electron micrographs also confirm the formation of dual phase of platelet as well as of flaky structure of intercalated doped Polypyrrole. Temperature dependant conductivity showed three dimensional variable ranges hopping model. Activation energy, density of states and hopping length are calculated and found to be influenced by intercalating Doped Polypyrole into the layers of Montmorillonite clay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]