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A mixed oxide system consisting of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5, was subjected to annealing in air/hydrogen up to 950 °C for 1–4 h to study its sintering behavior. The thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimetry (TGA–DSC) thermograms indicated the formation of multiple endothermic peaks at temperatures higher than 925 °C. Subsequently, a 30% Ta2O5 and 70% Nb2O5 (mol%) pellet resulted in good sintering behavior at both 900 and 950 °C. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images corroborated these observations with necking and particle coarsening. The sintered pellets contained a 20.4 and 20.8% mixed oxide (Nb4Ta2O15) phase, along with Ta2O5 and Nb2O5, at both 900 and 950 °C, indicating the possibility of the formation of a solid solution phase. In situ high-temperature X-ray diffraction (XRD) scans also confirmed the formation of the ternary oxide phase at 6 and 19.8% at 890 and 950 °C, respectively. The Hume–Rothery rules could explain the good sintering behavior of the Ta2O5 and Nb2O5 mixed oxides. An oxide composition of 30% Ta2O5 and 70% Nb2O5 (mol%) and a sintering temperature of 950 °C appeared adequate for fabricating well-sintered oxide precursors for subsequent electrochemical polarization studies in fused salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative intra-articular disorder of cartilage and bone. Knee joint is most commonly involved due to its pivotal role in weight bearing as it is constantly exposed to wear and tear. Osteotomy procedures can achieve normal alignment of the weight bearing axis of the lower limbs. Aim: To evaluate and compare the functional outcome of High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) and Proximal Fibular Osteotomy (PFO) in medial compartmental osteoarthritis of knee joint. Materials and Methods: This prospective longitudinal study was conducted in a tertiary healthcare centre, IPGMER and SSKMH, Kolkata, West Bangal, India from October 2019 to November 2021 for a duration of 26 months, in which 40 osteotomies were performed around the knee. Considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria 20 proximal fibular osteotomies and 20 high tibial osteotomies were operated avoiding the patients with advanced stage or tricompartmental OA. The scoring system considered for evaluation of the functional outcome was Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and Visual Analouge Scale (VAS) Score. The analysis was done through paired t-test with determining of p-value where value =0.05 was considered for statistically significant. Results: Majority of the patients in the present study were more than 45 years of age. The most frequent age group was 46-50 years followed by 51-55 years. The follow-up period was at least 15 months where the OKS score was 39.35±3.51 and 41.20±4.50 with p-value of 0.1556 and VAS score was 5.50±1.10 and 3.80±1.10 with p value of <0.0001 for PFO and HTO respectively. Only two of the patients developed surgical site infection in both cases. Conclusion: In long term follow-up the final functional status of both treatment modalities were comparable although HTO was considered superior with significant improvement in pain relief perspective than PTO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate a facile one-pot synthesis of porous "flow-through" ZnO nanoparticle impregnated carbon/silica monoliths with high mechanical strength and interconnected end-to-end pores decorated with functional and catalytic nanoparticles. The materials and conditions for the synthesis were tailored to achieve the desired properties of high mechanical strength, good flow-through permeability, and crack-free morphology. Monoliths were prepared from a resorcinol formaldehyde rout but with the addition of tetraethyl-orthosilicate and a metal oxide precursor, ZnCl2. The monoliths were ambient dried and carbonized under optimized conditions to suppress cracks. Compressive tests of both the resin and carbonized monoliths were performed to examine the effect of the metal oxide precursor on the mechanical properties. The permeability of the monoliths was determined to verify their utility as a flow-through material. The monoliths exhibited a high compressive modulus of ~30 MPa compared with conventional carbon aerogels and a permeability of ~10-12 m². Various characterization techniques were used to analyze the surface morphology, pore texture, and chemical composition of the monoliths. Finally, Ag nanoparticles were incorporated in the monoliths to demonstrate an example of a "flow-through" catalysis application where controlled catalytic conversion of para-nitrophenol into para-aminophenol could be achieved in a continuous flow reactor mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospinning was employed to synthesize a Ag nanoparticle (NP)-impregnated partially aligned and free-standing carbon nanofibers (CNFs) mat using a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and silver nitrate blend followed by carbonization. Pyrolyzation of the PAN/AgNO 3 blend produced the nanoporous CNFs, and the Ag NPs were grown within the CNFs via thermal decomposition of AgNO 3 . The fiber diameters of the synthesized CNFs ranged from 130 to 190 nm, and the size of the impregnated Ag NPs was ∼30 nm. The presence of the Ag NPs enhanced the electrical conductivity and promoted graphitization of the CNFs via the templating effect of the Ag NPs. These synthesized CNFs and AgCNFs nanocomposite were electrophoretically deposited onto indium tin oxide electrodes for detection of triglyceride molecules. Oxygen plasma treatment of the CNFs and AgCNFs surfaces resulted in enhanced loading of lipase and glycerol dehydrogenase bienzymes. The AgCNFs nanocomposite exhibited faster electron transfer than the CNFs, as corroborated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry studies. Covalent functionalization via 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide/ N -hydroxysuccinimide coupling chemistry on a nanoporous CNFs surface led to higher stability of the fabricated biosensor toward triglyceride detection. The sensitivity was four-fold higher for the AgCNFs (1.232 μA mg/dL −1 cm −2 ) bioelectrode compared with the CNFs (0.33 μA mg/dL −1 cm −2 ) over a wide detection range (25–500 mg/dL). These biosensors exhibited excellent selectivity, good reproducibility, and faster response (10 s). Thus, enhanced graphitization and electrical conductivity of nanoporous CNFs via incorporation of Ag NPs yields a promising platform for the detection of triglyceride (TG) biomolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is challenging to integrate porous graphene foam (GF) and GF-based nanocomposites into microfluidic channels and even create microfluidic structures within these materials. This is because their irregular interior pore shape and geometry, rough exterior surface, and relatively large material thickness make it difficult to perform conventional photolithography and etching. This challenge has largely hindered the potential of using GF-based materials in microfluidics-based sensors. Here we present a simple approach to create well-defined flow-through channels within or across the GF-based materials, using a liquid-phase photopolymerization method. This method allows embedding of a nanocomposite-based scaffold of GF and titanium nitride nanofibers (GF–TiN NFs) into a channel structure, to realize flow-through microfluidic electrochemical sensors for detecting nitrate ions in agricultural soils. The unique GF–TiN nanocomposite provides high electrochemical reactivity, high electron transfer rate, improved loading capacity of receptor biomolecules, and large surface area, serving as an efficient electrochemical sensing interface with the help of immobilized specific enzyme molecules. The microfluidic sensor provides an ultralow limit of detection of 0.01 mg L−1, a wide dynamic range from 0.01 to 442 mg L−1, and a high sensitivity of 683.3 μA mg−1 L cm−2 for nitrate ions in real soil solution samples. The advantageous features of the GF–TiN nanocomposite, in conjunction with the in situ integration approach, will enable a promising microfluidic sensor platform to monitor soil ions for nutrient management towards sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate an easy, scalable, and two-step synthesis of macroporous carbon, carbon/TiO2 (cTiO2), carbon/MnO2 (cMnO2), and carbon/TiO2/MnO2 (cTiO2/MnO2) composite thin films for energy storage applications. The direct synthesis of the hybrid films was achieved by spin coating, followed by carbonization. The unique multilayered three-dimensional (3D) pore structure of the film permits the synthesis of carbon/TiO2/MnO2 nanocomposites with enhanced metal-oxide nanoparticle loading up to 50 wt %. The as-synthesized porous carbon thin films were tested for their supercapacitor activity and a maximum specific capacitance ~44 F g-1 was achieved with a film thickness of 350 nm. The as-prepared cTiO2, cMnO2, and cTiO2/MnO2 electrodes exhibit high specific capacitances of 178, 237, and 297 F g-1, respectively, at 5 mV s-1, because of their unique properties with impregnated nanoparticles, and direct fabrication on conductive substrates. This simple scalable coating technique is compatible with the high-speed roll-to-roll manufacturing processes and easily generalized for other carbon/metal oxide composites. We demonstrate an easy, scalable, two-step synthesis method similar to the roll-to-roll process for the synthesis of multilayered of macroporous carbon, carbon/TiO2 (cTiO2), carbon/MnO2 (cMnO2), and carbon/TiO2/MnO2 (cTiO2/MnO2) composite thin films for energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a straightforward method for fabricating functional micro-, submicro-, and nano-channels embedded in a porous carbon film and the application of this microfluidic platform for electrochemical sensing. A skin layer of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) fibers was first electrospun on a thoroughly cleaned Si wafer substrate, followed by spin coating of a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) film on top of the skin. High-temperature carbonization of the composite film decomposed the PMMA fibers and produced embedded microchannels in the PAN-derived amorphous monolithic carbon electrode. The channels were decorated with Pt nanoparticles by in situ thermal decomposition of a precursor metal salt to enhance functionality of the carbon electrode. Carbon electrodes decorated with Pt nanoparticles (carbon-Pt), with and without embedded microchannels, were used to detect the food toxin aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) by surface biofunctionalization with the antibodies of AFB1 (anti-AFB1) via an electrochemical impedance technique. The aligned nanochannels in the porous carbon film act as a reaction chamber for antigen–antibody interactions and provide channels for fast electron transport toward the electrode from the electrolyte, resulting in improved electrochemical performance of the biosensor. The fabricated immunosensor is highly sensitive to 1 pg/mL of AFB1 with a concentration range of 10 −12 –10 −7 g/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tiger shrimp is one of the major candidate species for export oriented aquaculture which dominates the seafood market in regions of European Union, Japan and USA. Carotenoid content in seafood has now become one of the important criteria in determining the quality of edible product. Recent trends in supplementing fish diets with natural pigment source are an alternative to the utilization of expensive synthetic pigments. In this context, green algae Enteromorpha intestinalis was selected as a source of natural pigment for inclusion in the diet of tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon. Astaxanthin being an important category of carotenoid pigment was monitored in shrimp muscle tissue during the feeding trial. Significant variation (p<0.05) was observed between the experimental groups as confirmed through ANOVA thus exhibiting higher astaxanthin content of shrimps (18.70 ± 4.48 ppm) fed with E. intestinalis incorporated diet as compared to control (15.80 ± 2.33 ppm). The present programme therefore emphasizes on the quality improvement of aquaculture product by dietary inclusion of algae as a natural pigment source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have fabricated partially alignedfree-standing mesoporous pureanatase TiO2nanofiber mats (TiO2-NF) for photocatalysisby electrospinning on a rotating drum collector using a blend of titaniumisopropoxide (Ti(OiPr)4), with a carrierpolymer, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in acetic acid and ethanol. Calcinationremoves PVP and generates mesoporous TiO2-NF with fiberdiameters in the range of 25–75 nm by optimizing the electrospinningparameters such as electric field strength, polymer concentration,and flow rate of solution, etc. The band gap energyof TiO2nanofibers from the UV–vis absorption spectrais found to increase with an increase in the calcination temperature,thus allowing band gap engineering for different applications. Thesurface morphology, phase composition, crystallinity, surface area,and porosity of the TiO2-NF are also investigated. We demonstratethe efficient and reusable photocatalytic action of the partiallyaligned pure electrospun TiO2-NF and residual carbon containingTiO2-NF mats with an average fiber diameter ∼40nm in the photocatalytic degradation of a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon(PAH) dye, naphthalene. Small carbon residue (2.54%) containing TiO2-NF is found to be about twice as efficient as the pristineTiO2-NF in photodegradation of a PAH dye, but the effectivenessdeclined at higher carbon content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports a combined experimental-modeling study on the adhesion at glass/poly(vinyl butyral) (PVB) interfaces. PVB is a critical component in laminated glasses that provides impact resistance and prevents spallation in the event of glass breakage. We characterize the mode I (normal) and mode II (shear) interfacial fracture behaviors in glass/PVB/glass laminates and obtained independent cohesive (traction–separation) laws for the two modes. We observe a pronounced rate dependence of both traction-separation laws. Specifically, with increasing loading rate, the interfacial stiffness, the peak stress, and the fracture toughness increase while the critical opening or shear displacement decreases. These measured traction-separation laws are used as inputs in finite element analysis to predict the mechanical behavior of the peel test, which agrees reasonably well with the experimental results. Finite element analysis of a glass laminate subjected to impact loading demonstrates how the measured interfacial properties can be used to predict the mechanical behavior and failure of laminated glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the technological advancement in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), microfabrication processes along with digital electronics together have opened novel avenues to the development of small-scale smart sensing devices with improved sensitivity with a lower cost of fabrication and relatively small power consumption. This article aims to provide the overview of the recent work carried out on the fabrication methodologies adopted to develop silicon based resonant sensors. A detailed discussion has been carried out to understand critical steps involved in the fabrication of the silicon-based MEMS resonator. Some challenges starting from the materials' selection to the final phase of obtaining a compact MEMS resonator device for its fabrication have also been explored critically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few decades, advanced manufacturing and additive printing technologies have made incredible inroads into the fields of engineering, transportation, and healthcare. Among additive manufacturing technologies, 3D printing is gradually emerging as a powerful technique owing to a combination of attractive features, such as fast prototyping, fabrication of complex designs/structures, minimization of waste generation, and easy mass customization. Of late, 4D printing has also been initiated, which is the sophisticated version of the 3D printing. It has an extra advantageous feature: retaining shape memory and being able to provide instructions to the printed parts on how to move or adapt under some environmental conditions, such as, water, wind, light, temperature, or other environmental stimuli. This advanced printing utilizes the response of smart manufactured materials, which offer the capability of changing shapes postproduction over application of any forms of energy. The potential application of 4D printing in the biomedical field is huge. Here, the technology could be applied to tissue engineering, medicine, and configuration of smart biomedical devices. Various characteristics of next generation additive printings, namely 3D and 4D printings, and their use in enhancing the manufacturing domain, their development, and some of the applications have been discussed. Special materials with piezoelectric properties and shape-changing characteristics have also been discussed in comparison with conventional material options for additive printing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] One step synthesis of macroporous polymer and carbon sub-micron films by spin coating. [•] Dewetting produces films with hole density in the range of 108–109 percm2. [•] Composite carbon/nanoparticle films compatible with roll-to-roll processing. [•] Catalytic conversion of para-nitrophenol to para-aminophenol by Ag/carbon composite. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We demonstrate a new method for the fabrication of free-standing mats of mesoporous ZnO nanofibers by electrospinning a blend of zinc acetate with a carrier polymer, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) in N,N-dimethyl-formamide (DMF) solvent. Decomposition of PAN by calcination produces porous ZnO nanofibers with fiber diameters in the range of 50–150nm depending on the electrospinning conditions such as the precursor solution concentration, electric field strength, and solution flow rate. The fibers are characterized for their morphology, phase composition, band gap, crystallinity, surface area, and porosity. In this paper, optimized mats of ZnO nanofibers with an average fiber diameter of 60nm are shown to be highly effective in the photocatalytic degradation of the PAH dyes – naphthalene and anthracene. Nanofiber mats fabricated here may also find applications in gas sensing, piezoelectric devices, optoelectronics, and photocatalysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) are highly prevalent among the aging population. It affects primarily the central nervous system (CNS) but the effects are also observed in the peripheral nervous system. Neural degeneration is a progressive loss of structure and function of neurons, which may ultimately involve cell death. Such patients suffer from debilitating memory loss and altered motor coordination which bring up non-affordable and unavoidable socio-economic burdens. Due to the unavailability of specific therapeutics and diagnostics, the necessity to control or manage NDs raised the demand to investigate and develop efficient alternative approaches. Keeping trends and advancements in view, this report describes both state-of-the-art and challenges in nano-biotechnology-based approaches to manage NDs, toward personalized healthcare management. Sincere efforts are being made to customize nano-theragnostics to control: therapeutic cargo packaging, delivery to the brain, nanomedicine of higher efficacy, deep brain stimulation, implanted stimulation, and managing brain cell functioning. These advancements are useful to design future therapy based on the severity of the patient's neurodegenerative disease. However, we observe a lack of knowledge shared among scientists of a variety of expertise to explore this multi-disciplinary research field for NDs management. Consequently, this review will provide a guideline platform that will be useful in developing novel smart nano-therapies by considering the aspects and advantages of nano-biotechnology to manage NDs in a personalized manner. Nano-biotechnology-based approaches have been proposed as effective and affordable alternatives at the clinical level due to recent advancements in nanotechnology-assisted theragnostics, targeted delivery, higher efficacy, and minimal side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lower stretch of Gangetic delta in the Indian sub-continent is noted for its rich mangrove biodiversity, natural calamities, and livelihood-supporting matrix of millions of people and is the only mangrove base of Royal Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) in the planet Earth. The present trend of industrialization, urbanization and construction of barrage in the upstream zone has changed the landscape of the deltaic complex and the characteristics of the aquatic sub-system have also changed accordingly. This ecosystem offers an ideal site to study a number of physico-chemical parameters in relation to changing scenario of the region. The presence of heavily populated cities of Kolkata, Howrah and the Haldia industrial belt on the bank of the Hooghly estuary has made the mighty River Ganga highly vulnerable to anthropogenic stress. Spatial and tidal variations of important physico-chemical parameters in the Hooghly estuarine stretch of Gangetic delta complex were studied during the summer month April, 2008. The water quality reflects the impact of Bay of Bengal (sea) water almost on all the variables as revealed from the significant difference of parameter values in high and low tides (except surface water temperature and potassium). The 12 selected stations from the upstream to downstream regions exhibited uniformity with respect to surface water temperature. Significant spatial variations (at 5% level of significance) were observed with respect to parameters like surface water salinity, pH, alkalinity, DO, BOD, COD, NO3, PO4, SiO3, extinction coefficient, SO4, Na, K, Cl and total nitrogen. Along with tidal influences, the anthropogenic factors contributed by the adjacent cities and towns exert a regulatory influence on parameters like BOD, COD, NO3, PO4, extinction coefficient, SO4 and total nitrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A prospective study of a cohort of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructed patients 7 years after surgery revealed degenerative radiographic changes in 95% of patients, and only 47% were able to return to their previous activity level following ACL reconstruction. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to find the correlation between Semitendinosus graft dimension with respect to patients anthropometry such as age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and true leg length (TLL). Materials and Methods: The proposed study was the patients coming to orthopedics-outpatient department and emergency with 30 complete thickness ACL tears which were screened and recruited based on fulfillment of inclusion and exclusion criteria from January 2020 to August 2021 (20 months duration). The sample size was sufficient to draw conclusive findings. Correlation was calculated by Pearson correlation analysis. The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient was a measure of the linear dependence between two variables X and Y. P≤0.05 was considered for statistically significant. Results: The age has positive correlation with graft length (r=0.11) and relatively strong positive correlation with graft diameter (r=0.437). Height has relatively strong positive correlation with graft length (r=0.4258) and graft diameter (r=0.1375). Weights have strong positive correlation with graft length (r=0.604). TLL also had positive correlation with graft length (0.23) and graft diameter (r=0.1). Conclusion: In selective cases, graft may be reinforced with additional Hamstring tendon harvest like gracilis or any alternative graft such as Bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPB) and Peroneus longus tendon autograft that may be taken to prevent graft failure and future complications. This current data can be a reference for surgeons in preoperative planning and counseling to patients about alternative autograft selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In tissue engineering, the pivotal role of scaffolds is underscored, serving as key elements to emulate the native extracellular matrix. These scaffolds must provide structural integrity and support and supply electrical, mechanical, and chemical cues for cell and tissue growth. Notably, electrical conductivity plays a crucial role when dealing with tissues like bone, spinal, neural, and cardiac tissues. However, the typical materials used as tissue engineering scaffolds are predominantly polymers, which generally characteristically feature poor electrical conductivity. Therefore, it is often necessary to incorporate conductive materials into the polymeric matrix to yield electrically conductive scaffolds and further enable electrical stimulation. Among different conductive materials, carbon nanomaterials have attracted significant attention in developing conductive tissue engineering scaffolds, demonstrating excellent biocompatibility and bioactivity in both in vitro and in vivo settings. This article aims to comprehensively review the current landscape of carbon‐based conductive scaffolds, with a specific focus on their role in advancing tissue engineering for the regeneration and maturation of functional tissues, emphasizing the application of electrical stimulation. This review highlights the versatility of carbon‐based conductive scaffolds and addresses existing challenges and prospects, shedding light on the trajectory of innovative conductive scaffold development in tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Review: 234 refs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study involves detecting and determining CIP by a new electrochemical sensor based on graphene (Gr) in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) employing voltammetric techniques. Surface morphology studies of the sensing material were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM). In the electroanalysis of CIP at the developed electrode, an enhanced anodic peak response was recorded, suggesting the electro-oxidation of CIP at the electrode surface. Furthermore, we evaluated the impact of the electrolytic solution, scan rate, accumulation time, and concentration variation on the electrochemical behavior of CIP. The possible electrode mechanism was proposed based on the acquired experimental information. A concentration variation study was performed using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in the lower concentration range, and the fabricated electrode achieved a detection limit of 2.9 × 10−8 M. The proposed sensor detected CIP in pharmaceutical and biological samples. The findings displayed good recovery, with 93.8% for tablet analysis and 93.3% to 98.7% for urine analysis. The stability of a developed electrode was tested by inter- and intraday analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanocomposite electrode of graphene (Gr) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles was fabricated to study the electrochemical oxidation behavior of an anti-inflammatory drug, i.e., cetirizine (CET). The voltametric response of CET for bare CPE, Gr/CPE, ZnO/CPE, and the ZnO-Gr nanocomposite electrode was studied. The modifier materials were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) to comprehend the surface morphology of the utilized modifiers. The influence of pH, scan rate, and accumulation time on the electrooxidation of CET was examined. It was found that the electrochemical oxidation of CET was diffusion-controlled, in which two protons and two electrons participated. The detection limit was found to be 2.8 × 10−8 M in a linearity range of 0.05–4.0 µM. Study of excipients was also performed, and it was found that they had negligible interference with the peak potential of CET. The validation and utility of the fabricated nanocomposite sensor material were examined by analyzing clinical and biological samples. Stability testing of the nanocomposite electrode was conducted to assess the reproducibility, determining that the developed biosensor has good stability and high efficiency in producing reproducible results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, detection of trimethoprim (TMP) was carried out using a nanostructured zinc oxide nanoparticle-modified carbon paste electrode (ZnO/CPE) with an anionic surfactant and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) with the help of voltametric techniques. The electrochemical nature of TMP was studied in 0.2 M pH 3.0 phosphate-buffer solution (PBS). The developed electrode displayed the highest peak current compared to nascent CPE. Effects of variation in different parameters, such as pH, immersion time, scan rate, and concentration, were investigated. The electrode process of TMP was irreversible and diffusion controlled with two electrons transferred. The effective concentration range (8.0 × 10−7 M–1.0 × 10−5 M) of TMP was obtained by varying the concentration with a lower limit of detection obtained to be 2.58 × 10−8 M. In addition, this approach was effectively employed in the detection of TMP in pharmaceutical dosages and samples of urine with the excellent recovery data, suggesting the potency of the developed electrode in clinical and pharmaceutical sample analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zileuton (ZLT) is an active oral inhibitor of enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, and long-term intake and overdose of ZLT cause adverse effects, leading to critical conditions in patients. This is a well-recognized issue that necessitates a better approach for ZLT sensing. Given the increasing interest in ZLT sensing and the limitations of previous techniques, there is a need for a highly sensitive, robust, and fast operation method that is inexpensive and easy to use. Thus, for the sensitive detection and determination of ZLT, an electrochemical sensor based on graphene was fabricated. Graphene has excellent properties, such as high surface area, low toxicity, conductivity, and electroactive conjugation with biomolecules, making it suitable for sensing. The electrocatalytic property of graphene promotes the redox-coupled reaction of ZLT. Electrochemical investigation of the modifier was carried out by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). An optimization and analysis of the influence of different parameters on the electrochemical behavior of ZLT were carried out using the CV approach. The scan rate study aided in exploring the physicochemical properties of the electrode process, and two electrons with two protons were found to be involved in the electrooxidation of ZLT. The fabricated sensor showed a wide range of linearity with ZLT, from 0.3 µM to 100.0 µM, and the detection limit was evaluated as 0.03 µM under optimized conditions. The analysis of spiked urine samples, with good recovery values for percent RSD, provided support for the efficiency and applicability of the developed electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-Ferroelectric-Insulator-Semiconductor (MFIS) structure with 20 nm thin lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ferroelectric film and 6nm ultrathin high-j titanium oxynitride (TiOxNy) insulator layer on p-Si substrate were fabricated. Effect of constant voltage stress (CVS) on electrical characteristics of MFIS structure was investigated to study the reliability of fabricated devices. The experimental results showed trivial variation in memory window (∆W) from 1.05 to 1 V under CVS of 0 to 15 V (5.76 MV/cm) at sweep voltage of ±5 V. Also, leakage current density (J) reduced from 5.57 to 1.94lμ/cm2 under CVS of 5.76 MV/cm, supported by energy band diagram. It signifies highly reliable TiOxNy buffer layer for Ferroelectric Random Access Memory. After programming at ± 5 V, the high (CH) and low (CL) capacitances reliability remains distinguishable for 5000 s even if we extrapolate measured data to 15 years. Microstructures analysis of XRD reveals the formation of (100) and (111) orientation of PZT and TiOxNy, respectively. Thus, Au/PZT/TiOxNy/Si, MFIS gate stacks can be potential candidate for next generation reliable Ferroelectric Field Effect Transistors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adsorption characteristics of H2 molecules on the surface of Pd-doped and Pd-decorated graphene (G) have been investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations to explore the sensing capabilities of Pd-doped/decorated graphene. In this analysis, electrostatic potential, atomic charge distribution, 2D and 3D electron density contouring, and electron localization function projection, were investigated. Studies have demonstrated the sensing potential of both Pd-doped and Pd-decorated graphene to H2 molecules and have found that the gap between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), i.e., the HOMO-LUMO gap (HLG), decreases to 0.488 eV and 0.477eV for Pd-doped and Pd-decorated graphene, respectively. When H2 is adsorbed on these structures, electrical conductivity increases for both conditions. Furthermore, chemical activity and electrical conductivity are higher for Pd-decorated G than Pd-doped G, whereas the charge transfer of Pd-doped graphene is far better than that of Pd-decorated graphene. Also, studies have shown that the adsorption energy of Pd-doped graphene (−4.3 eV) is lower than that of Pd-decorated graphene (−0.44 eV); a finding attributable to the fact that the recovery time for Pd-decorated graphene is lower compared to Pd-doped graphene. Therefore, the present analysis confirms that Pd-decorated graphene has a better H2 gas sensing platform than Pd-doped graphene and, as such, may assist the development of nanosensors in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable electronic devices (WEDs) are receiving significant attention because of the increasing interest in soft robotics, electronic skin, and wearable sensors. Liquid metals (LMs) are compelling for WEDs owing to their metallic conductivity, fluidic nature, and low toxicity. Herein, we fabricated stretchable and soft WEDs using LM (eutectic gallium-indium alloy) wires (LMWs) patterned via force wetting through custom-made stencils on an elastic substrate. LMWs can generate thermal energy via Joule heating upon current application and deliver it to the substrate, resulting in wearable polymeric heaters. The LM mixed with carbonyl iron particles (CIPs) can also be patterned while preserving fluidic behavior. The degree of thermal energy generated through the LMWs can be manipulated as a function of the CIP concentration in the LM and geometrical factors of the electrode patterns, i.e., width and length. An elastic film patterned with LMWs attached to the human body exhibits changes in the effective electrical resistance depending on applied strain, demonstrating potential as a wearable strain sensor. This LM utilized WED that can generate thermal energy upon current application through the LMWs and detect the bodily motion has significant potential for application in wearable thermotherapy, electronic skin, and soft sensors. [Display omitted] • Soft and stretchable wearable heaters and strain sensors utilizing liquid metal electrode. • Wearable devices exhibiting ultrasoftness (116 kPa), ultrastretchability (>1300 %) and strong adhesion to the surfaces. • Wearable devices exhibiting ultrasoftness (Young's modulus of 116 kPa), ultrastretchability (elongation at break of > 1300 %) and strong adhesion to the surfaces. • Wearable devices generating thermal energy by Joule-heating through liquid metal wires. • Liquid metal wires changing electrical resistance by deformation upon strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of hydrogen, its separation, and storage for use as a primary source of energy is an important component of the green energy economy of the world. Hydrogen is a potential non-carbon-based energy source, which is gradually replacing the dependency on fossil fuels. It is anticipated that as the alternative fuel since hydrogen can be produced from green and clean sources. The evolution of hydrogen from renewable and non-renewable sources by various technologies has now gained tremendous research and industrial interest. The most appropriate methods for hydrogen generation involve the direct conversion of solar energy, exploitation of solar and wind energy for the electrolysis of water, besides conversion of fuel and biomass. To produce cleaner hydrogen and its separation from the chemical impurities is crucial and several methods including photobiological, photoelectrochemical, electrochemical, photocatalytic, thermochemical, thermolysis, and steam gasification have been used. The diverse types of membranes along with the pressure gas swing adsorption technique is another technique used to separate hydrogen, but the storage of hydrogen in an inexpensive, safe, compact, and environmentally friendly manner is one of the major concerns contributing to the country's economy. Apart from the countless advantages, storage and handling of hydrogen is a serious concern. Owing to its high inflammability, enough safety measures should be adopted during its production and storage as a fuel. It is necessary to provide information regarding the production technologies, storage, and separation methods of hydrogen and the present review addresses these issues. [Display omitted] • Discussion of hydrogen production, storage, and separation methods is done. • Hydrogen production by water splitting using solar energy is most efficient. • Large capacity of hydrogen is stored by efficacious metal hydrides method. • Membranes have separation flexibility, good conductivity and thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a notoriously difficult substance to store yet has endless energy applications. Thus, the study of long-term hydrogen storage, and high-pressure bulk hydrogen storage have been the subject of much research in the last several years. To create a research path forward, it is important to know what research has already been done, and what is already known about hydrogen storage. In this review, several approaches to hydrogen storage are addressed, including high-pressure storage, cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage, and metal hydride absorption. Challenges and advantages are offered based on reported research findings. Since the project looks closely at advanced manufacturing, techniques for the same are outlined as well. There are seven main categories into which most rapid prototyping styles fall. Each is briefly explained and illustrated as well as some generally accepted advantages and drawbacks to each style. An overview of hydrogen adsorption on metal hydrides, carbon fibers, and carbon nanotubes are presented. The hydrogen storage capacities of these materials are discussed as well as the differing conditions in which the adsorption was performed under. Concepts regarding storage shape and materials accompanied by smaller-scale advanced manufacturing options for hydrogen storage are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]