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In this work, we have successfully synthesized the cost-effective, abundant in nature and environmentally friendly SrMoO 4 /MWCNT-PVP by using the co-precipitation technique for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Prepared nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, which confirms the formation of tetragonal structure of SrMoO 4 and indexed with JCPDS (01-074-3912). Raman spectra confirm the combination of SrMoO 4 with carbon composite (verified by D and G band 1.02 I D /I G ratio) and its functional group was further analyzed with the help of FTIR spectra. Synthesized product morphology was characterized by using SEM and TEM images, which confirms formation of well-defined dumb-bell shaped nanostructures with the combination of carbon nanotube and also it further confirms the formation of polycrystalline nature of the material. The elemental composition was analyzed by EDS images, which confirms the occurrence of Sr, Mo, O, and C in an appropriate form with a uniform distribution, respectively. MWCNT in SrMoO 4 incorporation led to decrease overpotential of 204 mV and 110 mV/dec Tafel slope of the material, which was examined by the LSV curves and Tafel plot analysis. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was also investigated, and it delivered the small charge-transfer resistance of 248 Ω, which further supporting the HER analysis and denoting the promising HER kinetics. Therefore, our work unlocks a new path for the properly tuned nanostructured morphology of metal oxide with carbon composite for electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing a commercial and stable electrocatalysts is a crucial factor for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) to replace noble electrocatalysts. In particular, thiospinel-structured metal sulfide is explored in wide areas like supercapacitors, lithium-ion, HER, and oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) because of distinctive features and interesting magnetic and electrical properties. The present work revealed the preparation of CuCo 2 S 4 with N doped different amounts of rGO by a hydrothermal process and the electrocatalysts used for HER. The present study aims to influence morphological and electrocatalytic action of CuCo 2 S 4 by optimizing amount of rGO content and accelerate electron transfer rate and offer rich active sites. Strong interaction between CuCo 2 S 4 with N-rGO were examined with the help of physico-chemical property analysis such as diffraction, microscopic and spectroscopic studies, which confirming the formation of nanocomposite material. The morphological studies confirmed the formation of nanoplatelets assembled CuCo 2 S 4 structure with the N doped rGO sheets and the elemental analysis has also confirmed the uniform distribution of the following elements such as copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), sulfur (S), nitrogen (N) and carbon (C). Among all the prepared materials, the electrocatalyst of CuCo 2 S 4 /N-rGO-50 yield promising electrocatalytic activity when compared to different amount of rGO. CuCo 2 S 4 /N-rGO-50 requires 86 mV overpotential to deliver 10 mA/cm2, likewise Tafel slope of nanomaterial was 95 mV/dec, respectively. Moreover, electrocatalyst exhibited excellent double-layer capacitance (C dl) value, small charge-transfer resistance of 8.60 mF/cm2, 3.55 Ω and high stability with the minimal loss over 24 h. Therefore, these findings may open way to explore thiospinel-structured metal sulfide with carbon composites for optimized H 2 evolution reaction. [Display omitted] • CuCo 2 S 4 nanoplatelets with carbon composites were hydrothermally synthesized. • CuCo 2 S 4 /N-rGO-50 electrode requires 86 mV overpotential to reach 10 mA/cm2. • CuCo 2 S 4 /N-rGO-50 exhibits excellent HER activities after 24 h stability test. • HER enhancement was due to high surface area and well-defined nanostructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated nutrient management (INM) practices and suitable cropping systems are an effective and promising way for enhancing crop productivity. However, the impact of proper INM practices and cultivation methods in rice cropping systems in dry tracts remains unclear. The field study evaluated the suitable cropping system under different rice establishment methods with INM practices in a sequential cropping system(rice-black gram, rice-maize, and rice-groundnut). Treatments were designed as two rice establishment methods [Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and Transplanted Rice (TPR)] and five INM practices [RDFRecommended Dose of Fertilizer (120:40:40 kg NPK ha-1) alone, RDF + Poultry manure compost @ 5 t ha-1, RDF+ Coir pith compost @ 5 t ha-1, RDF+ Green manure @ 6.25 t ha-1 and RDF-Green leaf manure @ 6.25 t ha-1]. TPR with the INM practice of RDF + poultry manure compost @ 5 t ha-1 recorded maximum productive tillers m-2 (351), number of filled grains panicle-1 (130.2), grain yield (6709 kg ha-1) and straw yield (9015 kg ha-1) of rice. Rice fallow crops (black gram, maize and groundnut) recorded 10 - 24,10-18 and 10 - 21 % higher values of yield components and yield, respectively, in DSR with INM treatment of RDF + Green manure @ 6.25 t ha-1. Thus, RDF plus green manure or poultry manure application is an apt INM practice for a rice-based sequential cropping system under DSR, and the rice-black gram is an economical and sustainable cropping system for dry tracts of the southern zone of Tamil Nadu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing an ideal bi-functional electrocatalyst for the overall water splitting plays significant function in alternative energy construction. Based on the previous literatures, the Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite has been investigated as the bi-functional electrocatalyst. In the present study, the facile hydrothermal route was approached to synthesize the Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite to enhance the electrocatalytic activity towards oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Further, Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 electrochemical analysis was undergone in an aqueous alkaline solution of 1 M potassium hydroxide for both OER and HER. High electrocatalytic nature of prepared Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite delivered the low 170 mV overpotential value and 151 mV at 20 mA/cm2 with Tafel values 188 mV/dec and 176 mV/dec for OER and HER. Also electrochemical surface area (ECSA) of prepared Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite was estimated from double layer capacitance (C dl) values, and calculated ECSA values are 0.027 cm2 and 0.097 cm2 for OER and HER respectively. The resultant Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite reached the low charge transfer resistance value of 15.9 Ω for OER and 22.7 Ω for HER which could acts as strong parameter to improve conductivity of the prepared electrode for both half reactions. Along with that, stability of Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite exhibits the outstanding performance at the current density of 10 mA/cm2 with only minimum amount of loss even after 16 h for both OER and HER. Hence, the synthesized Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposite was act as an optimistic choice of the bi-functional electro catalyst for sustainable energy production. • Attempted Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 for bi-functional electrochemical water splitting. • Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 delivered 170 and 151 mV at 20 mA/cm2 with low Tafel values 188 and 176 mV/dec for OER and HER. • Stability of Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 for long duration up to 16 h results 74% and 60% retention for both OER and HER. • Co 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 was optimistic choice of the bi-functional electrocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen production via electrochemical water splitting is still considered as solution for global energy demand. The ternary composite material of copper bismuth sulfide/reduced graphene oxide/graphitic carbon nitride (Cu 3 BiS 3 /rGO/g-C 3 N 4) electrocatalyst was produced via hydrothermal for HER activity. The X-ray diffraction study revealed that Cu 3 BiS 3 with carbon composite have orthorhombic phase with an average crystallite size as 43.1 nm. The Raman spectra of Cu 3 BiS 3 with carbon (rGO/g-C 3 N 4) composite revealed the existence of structural defects with I D /I G ratio of 1.01. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies was explored bayberry-like Cu 3 BiS 3 nanosphere formation with finely unified rGO and g-C 3 N 4 sheets. In an alkaline medium, the electrocatalytic performance demonstrates the enhancement of the Cu 3 BiS 3 catalyst due to the addition of rGO/g-C 3 N 4 with the low 111 mV overpotential and small 113 mV/dec Tafel slope value. The electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) of Cu 3 BiS 3 with carbon (rGO/g-C 3 N 4) composite was 127.25 cm2, whereas the ECSA values of Cu 3 BiS 3 and Cu 3 BiS 3 /rGO were 34.25 and 86.5 cm2, respectively. The results conclude that π-π interaction among rGO and g-C 3 N 4 can effectively improve the conductivity, active sites, surface area and porous nature of the obtained product, which leads to enhance HER performance. Therefore, morphology tuned carbon composite material would be a promising candidate in forthcoming cost-effective and large-scale water splitting applications. • Cu 3 BiS 3 /rGO/g-C 3 N 4 explored low 111 mV overpotential. • Cu 3 BiS 3 /rGO/g-C 3 N 4 investigated small 113 mV/dec Tafel slope value. • ECSA of Cu 3 BiS 3 /rGO/g-C 3 N 4 was 127.25 cm2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to evaluate the genetic variability, character association and path coefficient for various quantitative traits in fifty rice genotypes comprising of landraces and varieties under water limited conditions. Drought being a major abiotic stress causes severe reduction in grain yield especially during reproductive stages. The results revealed the presence of high genetic variability and significance for all the traits studied. The traits like single plant yield, number of filled spikelets per panicle, number of productive tillers per plant, flag leaf length, leaf rolling and leaf drying showed high variability compared to all other traits. The traits viz., spikelet fertility, number of productive tillers per plant, number of total tillers per plant, plant height, flag leaf breadth, panicle length, number of filled spikelets per panicle and relative water content exhibited a significant and positive correlation and direct effect on single plant yield, suggesting the potential importance of these traits in the improvement and selection of stable and high-yielding rice genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly proficient, long-lasting non-noble-metal-supported electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction are important for hydrogen energy production through alkaline electrolyte. In transition metal dichalcogenides, tungsten sulfide is one of the popular materials and is used in a wide variety of applications. In this work, pristine and cationic surfactant assisted tungsten sulfide were successfully synthesized via simple hydrothermal method in alkaline electrolyte for hydrogen evolution reaction. X-ray diffraction confirmed tungsten sulfide rhombohedral structure formation with high index plane (003). Scanning electron microscopy explored tungsten sulfide nanosheet-assembled mesoporous sphere morphology. Tungsten sulfide and cationic surfactant assisted tungsten sulfide overpotential values were found to be 141 and 102 mV at 10 mA/cm2 from linear sweep voltammetry curves. The obtained Tafel slope of tungsten sulfide and cationic surfactant assisted tungsten sulfide were 26.9 and 21.4 mV/dec, respectively. The solution and charge transfer resistance of the prepared materials were obtained from Nyquist plot and found to be 1.7 and 1.4 Ω, and 53.6 and 32 Ω, respectively. The specific surface area, pore diameter, and volume were analyzed by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method and obtained values for surface area, pore size, and volume of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide assisted tungsten sulfide were 65.05 m2/g, 3.502 nm, and 0.067 cc/g, respectively. The obtained result suggested that 0.1 M cationic surfactant assisted tungsten sulfide showed high catalytic activity with minimum overpotential. Long-term durability studies also suggested that the optimized surfactant-assisted tungsten sulfide had excellent stability over a prolong time of 16 h without any decay. However, the stability of the material exhibited only 90% retention which will improve in our near future works by using carbon-based materials. Hence, carbon-based materials exhibited outstanding chemical stability and offer large surface area, which significantly improves the hydrogen evolution reaction activity and suggests to be used in large-scale applications. [Display omitted] • Tungsten sulfide (WS 2) revealed rhombohedral structure with high index plane (003). • WS 2 surface area, pore size and volume was 65.05 m2/g, 3.502 nm and 0.067 cc/g. • WS 2 explored low 102 mV overpotential with Tafel slope of 21.4 mV/dec. • Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide assisted WS 2 exhibited 90% retention in 16 h CA test. • The optimum concentration of cationic surfactant was fixed as 0.1 M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, electrochemical water splitting is a securing alternative for clean-energy production and also an efficient expertise for oxygen and hydrogen production. Compared to single metal-based electrocatalyst, multi metal-based electrocatalyst offers more active sites, high surface area, and distinctive nanostructure for effective water oxidation. In this work, nickel and cobalt co-doped MnCO 3 was successfully synthesized via a facile co-precipitation technique. Rhombohedral crystal phase of MnCO 3 nanostructures and its crystallite sizes were thoroughly analyzed by the XRD spectra. Incorporation of doping element such as Ni and Co in MnCO 3 nanostructures exhibited two different morphologies which enhanced the catalytic performance of the prepared samples. Large surface area and porosity of the nanomaterials improved the stability and activity of the prepared MnCO 3 nanostructures. EDX analysis confirmed Mn, C, O, Ni and Co elements in stoichometric ratio. Moreover, the specific capacitance of (Ni, Co) co-doped MnCO 3 nanostructures attained 581 F/g while the other electrodes attained only 207, 332 and 175 F/g respectively. A small Tafel slope with low overpotential of Ni, Co co-doped MnCO 3 nanostructures was 20.2 mV/dec and 293 mV respectively. Therefore, the prepared electrocatalysts of Ni, Co co-doped MnCO 3 nanostructure is one of the attractive anode material for high performance energy conversion applications. • Ni, Co co-doped MnCO 3 attained 581 F/g while others attained 207, 332 and 175 F/g. • Ni, Co co-doped MnCO 3 explored low 293 mV overpotential. • Ni, Co co-doped MnCO 3 is attractive anode for high performance energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is one of the popular abundant elements in the world and, it is rising as a preferential energy and has developed a tool for decarbonization. Recently, hydrogen has been considered as next generation fuel for cars, trucks, homes, etc, because of the arising of worse climate. In this present work, the cost-effective and efficient electrocatalyst of calcium molybdate nanostructures were successfully prepared with the help of non-ionic surfactant (PEG) through the co-precipitation method for hydrogen evolution reaction. In XRD spectra, the high crystallite peak observed at 28.4° value corresponded to (112) lattice planes confirmed the formation of calcium molybdate nanostructures. In Raman spectra, the existence of tetrahedral [MoO 4 ] clusters and octahedral [CaO 8 ] clusters confirmed tetragonal calcium molybdate nanostructures formation. In SEM analysis, unique morphologies such as dumbbell and spindle-like structures was observed, which was achieved by using the PEG. The pore volume, pore diameter and specific surface area of CaMoO4–6 ml PEG were found to be 0.149 cc/g, 11.685 nm and 28.07 m2/g respectively. Electrochemical performance confirmed that the CaMoO4–6 ml PEG nanostructures exhibited superior HER activity with the low 198 mV overpotential at 10 mA/cm2 and lesser 204 mV/dec Tafel slope value. The charge transfer resistance of CaMoO4–6 ml PEG was 0.65 Ω, which has smaller than that of other electrocatalysts such as pure CaMoO4 (24.9 Ω), CaMoO4–2 ml PEG (2.47 Ω) and CaMoO4–4 ml PEG (2.04 Ω). The excellent HER activity was explored elevated electronic conductivity, mesoporous nature, high surface area and, unique morphology. [Display omitted] • CaMoO4–6 ml PEG explored 0.149 cc/g, 11.685 nm pore volume and diameter, 28.07 m2/g surface area. • CaMoO4–6 ml PEG exhibited superior HER activity with 198 mV at 10 mA/cm2 and lesser Tafel slope value of 204 mV/dec. • Excellent HER activity attributed high electronic conductivity, mesoporous nature, large surface area and, unique morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water splitting is an important method for hydrogen production. Notably, tantalum oxide has the potential to employ extensive variety appliances because of its outstanding electrical and optical properties. Tantalum pentoxide (Ta 2 O 5) nanopowders were produced using the sol–gel process. The effect of calcination time plays a main role on Ta 2 O 5 crystal structure configuration. Transmission electron microscope images explored obtained Ta 2 O 5 nanorod formation and investigated by electrochemical studies for its use in electrochemical water-splitting applications. The calculated specific capacitance values of Ta 2 O 5 electrodes at different temperature conditions were 146.4, 191.7, and 221.7 F/g. Fabricated Ta 2 O 5 electrodes showed overpotential of 304, 278, and 267 mV. Current densities of Ta 2 O 5 electrodes at different calcinations times were 353, 419, and 461 mA/g. Ta 2 O 5 powder calcined for 6 h revealed high specific capacitance and low overpotential, indicating better electrochemical reactivity suitable for water oxidation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting using various semiconductor materials is one of the exciting ways to generate hydrogen and oxygen. Nowadays, electrode fabrication is one of the important tasks and depends on various applications. In the PEC water-splitting application, the synthesized materials can enhance the bandgap by using controlled size and morphology. By altering the bandgap of synthesized nanomaterials, one can enhance the PEC activity and photoconversion efficiency. Recently, ZnO nanostructures have gained much attention due to their attractive and multifunctional properties and have been considered as an outstanding material for fabrication. Therefore, branched and unbranched ZnO nanorods were grown on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) substrate by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth method. The hexagonal phase of the branched ZnO nanorods was confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction pattern. The formation of branched ZnO nanorods was examined by the scanning electron microscopy analysis. Owing to their unique structure, branched nanorods display excellent light absorption capability with good PEC performance. Therefore, branched ZnO nanorods are uniquely excellent material for PEC water-splitting applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is beneficial and has received attractive attention due to a greater potential to generate hydrogen and oxygen from water by using plentiful solar light to solve the problem of energy crisis. Various active semiconductor materials are used in PEC water splitting applications. Nevertheless, in past decades, most of the researchers suggested that titanium oxide (TiO 2) is the best photoanode for this type of applications. Now, Zinc oxide (ZnO) is considered a perfect substitution to TiO 2 due to its comparable energy band structure and superior photogenerated electron transfer rate. In this study, bare and phosphorous-doped ZnO nanorods were successfully developed on fluorine-doped tin oxide-coated glass (FTO) substrate by chemical vapor deposition. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern authenticated hexagonal structure formation with strong diffraction peak of (101), which showed that ZnO nanorods were perfectly developed along c axis. The optical and morphological properties were analyzed by UV–Vis and scanning electron microscopy images. The energy-dispersive X-ray spectra demonstrated that doping agent phosphorous was present in ZnO nanorods. The PEC properties of the developed ZnO nanorods were further investigated and obtained results suggested that a small amount of phosphorous-doped ZnO nanorods enhances their PEC performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health crisis in India and globally. While national guidelines exist, the sources of data which form the basis of these guidelines are limited to a few well‑established tertiary care centres. There is inadequate literature on AMR and antibiotic mismatch from India at community level and even less literature on AMR patterns from rural India. Aims: The aims of this study were as follows: 1) to describe the patterns of AMR at an urban tertiary care hospital and a rural 100 bedded hospital; 2) to compare and contrast the AMR patterns noted with published ICMR guidelines; 3) to examine the issue of AMR and antibiotic mismatch; and 4) to identify local factors influencing drug‑bug mismatch at the local level. Settings and Design: The data were obtained from two independently conceived projects (Site 1: Urban tertiary care hospital, Site 2: Rural 100‑bedded hospital). Methods and Materials: Local antibiograms were made, and the antibiotic resistance patterns were compared between the urban and rural sites and with data published in the 2017 ICMR national guideline for AMR. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics including means and medians were used. Results: Our data reveal: a) a significant mismatch between sensitivity patterns and antibiotics prescribed; b) The national guidelines fail to capture the local picture of AMR, highlighting the need for local data; and c) challenges with data collection/retrieval, access and accuracy of diagnostic tools, administrative issues, and lack of local expertise limit antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Conclusions: Our study finds the burden of AMR high in both rural and urban sites, reinforcing that AMR burden cannot be ignored in rural settings. It also highlights that national data obtained from tertiary care settings fail to capture the local picture, highlighting the need for local data. Mechanisms of linking rural practices, primary health centres, and small hospitals with a common microbiology laboratory and shared data platforms will facilitate antibiotic stewardship at the community level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the utility of noninvasive electrocardiometry (ICON®) for hemodynamic categorization and assessment of fluid responsiveness in pediatric septic shock. Materials and methods: Pilot prospective observational study in a 12-bedded tertiary pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in children aged between 2 months and 16 years with unresolved septic shock after a 20 mL/kg fluid bolus. Those with cardiac index (CI) <3.3 L/min/m² and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) >1600 dyn sec/cm5/m² were classified as vasoconstrictive shock-electrocardiometry (VCEC) and those with CI >5.5 L/min/m² and SVRI <1000 dyn sec/cm5/m² as vasodilated shock-electrocardiometry (VDEC). Fluid responsiveness was defined as a 10% increase in CI with a 20 mL/kg fluid bolus. Sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SMD) was diagnosed on echocardiography. Outcomes studied included clinical shock resolution, length of PICU stay, and mortality. Results: Thirty children were enrolled over 6 months with a median (interquartile range) age and pediatric risk of mortality (PRISM) III score of 87(21,108) months and 6.75(1.5,8.25), respectively; 14(46.6%) were boys and 4(13.3%) died. Clinically, 19(63.3%) children had cold shock and 11(36.7%) had warm shock; however, 16(53.3%) children had VDEC (including five with clinical cold shock) and 14(46.7%) had VCEC using electrocardiometry. Fluid responsiveness was seen in 16(53.3%) children, 10 in the VCEC group and 6 in the VDEC group. In the VCEC group, the responders had a significant rise in CI and a fall in SVRI, while the responders in the VDEC group had a significant rise in CI and SVRI. Fluid responders, compared to nonresponders, had a significantly higher stroke volume variation (SVV) before fluid bolus (24.1 ± 5.2% vs. 18.2 ± 3.5%, p < 0.001) and a higher reduction in SVV after fluid bolus (10.0 ± 2.8% vs. 6.0 ± 4.5%, p = 0.006), higher lactate clearance (p = 0.03) and lower vasoactive-inotropic score (p = 0.04) at 6 hours, higher percentage of clinical shock resolution at 6 (p = 0.01) and 12 hours (p = 0.01), and lesser mortality (p = 0.002). Five (16.6%) children with VCEC had SMD and were less fluid responsive (p = 0.04) with higher mortality (p = 0.01) compared to those without SMD. Conclusions and clinical significance: Continuous, noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring using electrocardiometry permits hemodynamic categorization and assessment of fluid responsiveness in pediatric septic shock. This may provide real-time guidance for optimal interventions, and thus, improve the outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delivering clean hydrogen fuel from water electrolysis is effective approach for the present hydrogen economy. Typically, to construct cost-effective and highly proficient electrocatalysts is difficult, particularly bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall water splitting is immensely required. In this work, novel combination of Cu 2 WS 4 /rGO/MWCNT nanocomposites were synthesized and showed superior electrocatalytic activity towards overall water-splitting performance. From XRD analysis, we have confirmed the formation of a ternary composite of Cu 2 WS 4 /rGO/MWCNT, which belongs to the crystal structure of a tetragonal system with I-42 m (121) space group. The Raman spectra have also confirmed the successful preparation of ternary metal sulfide with its carbon composites. The morphology of nanostructure formation of Cu 2 WS 4 nanocubes comprised of rGO sheets and MWCNT uniformly. Cu 2 WS 4 /rGO/MWCNT composite contained 23.5 wt.% of Cu, 34.2 wt.% of W, 19.0 wt.% of S, and 23.3 wt.% of C. In the half-cell experiment, the electrocatalyst of Cu 2 WS 4 /rGO/MWCNT exhibited 231 mV overpotential value for OER and 96 mV for HER and low 41 mV/dec Tafel slope value for OER and 81 mV/dec for HER. The combination of ternary metal sulfide with carbon contents can effectively improve the charge transfer (R ct = 1.89 Ω for OER and 0.52 Ω for HER), enhance the electrochemically active surface area (155 cm2 for OER and 91.7 cm2 for HER), and defend electrocatalyst in long-term stability. Owing to above advantages, electrocatalyst exhibits high activity in both OER and HER performances. Specifically, it requires low 1.55 V applied voltage to reach the 10 mA/cm2, which has potential material for overall-water splitting performances. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the effect of Cu doping on the fundamental properties, magnetocaloric effect, and critical behavior of Mn 5 Ge 3 system. Mn 5-x Cu x Ge 3 compounds with x = 0.1 and 0.3 conform D8 8 -hexagonal structure. The unit cell volume decreases, and MnI-MnI distance increases with Cu content. This modifies the exchange interaction and impacts Curie temperature and saturation magnetization accordingly. The critical exponents β and γ of x = 0.1 compound are of 3D Ising class, while the x = 0.3 compound shows non-conventional behavior with its γ lying within the 3D Ising framework and β lying between 3D XY and Heisenberg classes. Both the compounds have extended-type spin interactions, and the decay of the exchange integrals has been calculated. Mn 5-x Cu x Ge 3 compounds clearly outperform most materials of Mn 5 Ge 3 class in terms of the magnetocaloric effect. They show an appreciable reversible isothermal entropy change across a wide temperature span with a large relative cooling power near the room temperature effect. These compounds can be combined with other suitable Mn 5 Ge 3 materials and used in 'active magnetic regenerative (AMR)' systems as layered refrigerants for more efficient magnetocaloric cooling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is an important key factor in favor of spotless energy production and storage. High cost and toxic elements can threaten the energy production. Only way to tackle the problem is that by utilizing the cost effective, earth-abundant and non toxic elements. In the present study, CuS, β-SnS and CuS@β-SnS nanocomposite were synthesized via co-precipitation process. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) spectra identify crystalline phases of synthesized samples. Raman spectra confirm nanocomposite formation and determine vibrational modes of molecules. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed optical and electronic properties of synthesized materials. Flower-like morphology of CuS@β-SnS nanocomposite was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. In addition, CuS@β-SnS nanocomposite exhibits 1111 F/g specific capacitance and 224 mV low overpotential. Further study revealed that CuS@β-SnS nanocomposite electrocatalyst displays good stability and excellent OER activity even over a prolong time. Remarkably, CuS@β-SnS nanocomposite revealed a low price water oxidation electrocatalyst and it builds a new pathway for practical water splitting applications. Image 1 • Flower like CuS@β-SnS nanocomposites are synthesized. • Product revealed high OER activity with low 224 mV overpotential. • The stability was maintained at prolong time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bare and Fe doped vanadium sulfide nanorods was synthesized by employing sol-gel method. The obtained (011) plane revealed and confirmed the orthorhombic phase of vanadium sulfide (VS). Fe doped vanadium sulfide anemone like nanorods structure were demonstrated by morphological evolution employing SEM studies. FTIR studies confirmed the vibrational frequencies of the prepared samples and identify the functional groups. Raman technique is also used to observe the vibrational modes of molecules and PL revealed the prepared samples optical-electronic nature. Additionally, electrochemical studies such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and chronoampherometry (CA) was recorded for determination of specific capacitance, current density and stability. High doped vanadium sulfide has elevated 1372 F/g specific capacitance at 385 mA/g current density attained from CV and LSV curves at 10 mV/s and it has proven the excellent OER activity. Image 1 • An excellent electrochemical water oxidation was demonstrated. • Fe doped VS exhibited outstanding 385 mA/g current density. • Fe doped VS exhibited very low 154 mV overpotential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum oxide (MoO 3) nanomaterials have received remarkable attention in biomedical applications, energy storage devices, and conversion devices. Orthorhombic phase molybdite (α-MoO 3) was successfully synthesized via hydrothermal method and the structure was confirmed through standard characterizations. Electrochemical performance was explored to evaluate specific capacitance, current densities, and stability. Product-specific capacitances were 164, 243, and 350 F/g at 10 mV/s and current densities were 194, 305, and 440 mA/g. M3 electrode showed 84% retention toward oxygen evolution reaction activity. The chronoamperometry study was conducted over 10 h to determine the long-term stability of M3 electrode. It showed high stability and good conductivity. Thus, it can be said that MoO 3 is a promising material to improve electrochemical performance and be used in preparing an efficient electrochemical energy conversion device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron is significant, earth abundant and inexpensive materials in everyday use. Non toxicity and clean manufacturing process is still a challenging role in scientific world. The chain like Fe 3 O 4 nanostructures were synthesized using the mixtures such as iron nitrate and Rambutan. Magnetite Fe 3 O 4 was verified using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). Metal oxide (Fe–O) and A 1g and E g phonon modes are substantiated employing Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectra. A product chemical state was investigated by high resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra. Chain like morphology and polycrystalline nature is attributed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Weight loss activity was revealed through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analysis. In application studies, higher concentration of Fe 3 O 4 nanostructures was more effective than the low concentration. Moreover, cytotoxicity effects and cell viability on human cancer cell lines were observed and tested for cancer treatment. Image 1 • Chained, connected 1-D Fe 3 O 4 materials was achieved. • Higher Fe 3 O 4 concentration revealed cytotoxic effect. • Cells viability decreased when Fe 3 O 4 concentration increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the effective way to optimize the copper tin sulfide (Cu 2 SnS 3) micro flowers via a simple hydrothermal method using different reaction times, which could enhance the fabricated electrocatalyst in electrochemical water splitting applications. The prepared Cu 2 SnS 3 was identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, which demonstrated the formation of triclinic phase Cu 2 SnS 3 with a=0.664, b=1.151 and c=1.993 nm, respectively. Phase confirmation was further analyzed by using Raman and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, which also demonstrated pure tetragonal copper tin sulfide (CTS) phase. The morphology of the copper tin sulfide (CTS) materials was explored with the help of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies, which confirmed crystalline nature of triclinic copper tin sulfide (CTS) 3D hierarchical micro flowers. The prepared electrocatalyst was further characterized employing Energy-dispersive (EDX) and X-ray (XPS) spectroscopy. It exhibited chemical composition of Cu2p, Sn3d, and S2p in stoichiometric ratio with an atomic percentage of Cu, Sn, and S being 37.5, 40.7, and 21.7%, respectively. CTS-16 h exhibited 151 mV to afford 10 mA/cm2 and 139 mV/dec Tafel slope value, which was demonstrated by electrochemical characterizations. Moreover, the efficient electrocatalyst of CTS-16 h exhibited 131.5 cm2 electrochemical active surface area, while the other catalysts such as CTS-4 h, CTS-8 h and CTS-24 h were 49.25, 67.5, and 107.5 cm2 respectively. The CTS-16 h electrode shows excellent stability towards long-term CA test for one day with 94% retention. Therefore, the overall result suggests that the synthesized material provided a new approach for the noble metal catalysts substitute, and it is a potential material for clean energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine whether the use of tuberculin syringes would decrease the pain at the site of injection and also the discomfort of the injection. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 patients who required bilateral therapeutic extraction of upper and lower premolars were selected for the study. The study involved 40 patients of both the genders between the age group of 12 and 26 years of age who reported to the oral surgery outpatient department in October 2017-January 2018. They were divided into two groups of 20 each. Group A: Local anesthesia (LA) administration using a conventional syringe and Group B: LA administration using tuberculin syringes. Pain assessment was done using the visual analog scale, and the results were analyzed using a Chi-square test. Results: A total of 40 patients were studied. Pain associated with the injection in Group B patients (tuberculin syringe) was found to be significantly low, and the results are statistically significant. This study shows that the tuberculin syringes can be used for local infiltration anesthesia administration as they are effective and convenient and do not cause pain during injection. Conclusion: This study concluded that the use of tuberculin syringes shows a significant reduction in the pain during the time of local anesthetic administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, bimetal (Mn, Co) codoping on a CuO host is aimed at enhancing oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. Codoping of Mn and Co on CuO to enhance bifunctional action in electrochemical water splitting has not yet been investigated to the best of our knowledge. Literatures are focused on unary Mn-doped CuO or Co-doped CuO nanostructures. Mn, Co codoped CuO through an easy chemical coprecipitation method has been successfully attempted and is more beneficial which is the novelty of the present work. Defect-enriched ample active sites (Mn2+/Mn3+ and Co2+/Co3+) along with Cu2+ in the host CuO achieved high current density (100 mA/cm2) in OER and HER with low overpotential such as 468 mV and 271 mV, respectively. Faster charge transfer and diffusion ability was stimulated by the bimetal codoping CuO. Reasonable Tafel plot values (OER: 199 mV/dec, and HER: 21 mV/dec) with improved water-splitting reaction kinetics were achieved for the Mn, Co codoped CuO nanoflakes. The double-layer capacitance ( C dl ) value of 27.5 mF/cm2 for Mn, Co codoped CuO nanoflakes was achieved. Similarly, the increasing order of an electrochemically active surface area (EASA) was exhibited by the consequent addition of bimetal doping on CuO, denoted as Mn , Co / CuO > Co / CuO > Mn / CuO > CuO. The evidence shows that the codoping strategy could facilitate rapid reaction kinetics to develop overall water splitting. The charge transfer resistances ( R ct ) of 3.6 Ω and 1.2 Ω for the Mn, Co codoped CuO nanostructure corresponding to the OER and HER, respectively, were reported. The long-term stability over 16 h with negligible loss was reported for both the OER and the HER performance. Thus, this work contributes to better insight and analysis of the successful codoping of bimetal elements in earth-abundant electrocatalysts to enhance and make practical the electrocatalytic water-splitting activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has gained more attention than the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water-splitting. The OER, which involves a four-electron process, is more complex whereas the HER, which involves a two-electron process, is more easy. Hydrogen is one of the promising and efficient energy carriers for renewable and sustainable energy yield. In this work, we have successfully prepared a low-cost electrocatalyst of strontium copper oxide (SCO) through a simple co-precipitation method, followed by an annealing process. The X-ray diffraction is consistent with an orthorhombic structure of SCO. The different modes of vibrations containing Cu, Sr, and O bonds were identified by using the Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectra. The scanning electron microscopy images confirmed that the introduction of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactant allowed to control the size and morphology of the prepared material. Electrochemical measurements indicated that 2 wt% SDS-assisted SCO material exhibited excellent HER performance and high stability. It achieved 166 mV to deliver 10 mA/cm2 and attained the low 124 mV/dec Tafel slope value, indicating that hydrogen evolution reaction followed the Volmer–Heyrovsky mechanism. Compared to the pure and 1 wt% SDS-SCO, 2 wt% SDS-SCO material exhibited a high electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) of 19.3 cm2 and showed a low 0.33 Ω charge-transfer resistance, indicating the presence of supplementary active sites and enhanced electrical conductivity than the reference electrocatalysts. Hence, this work could be considered as a successful approach in exploring the performance of alkaline-based metal oxides in electrochemical hydrogen evolution reactions. • 2 wt% SDS assisted SCO exhibited excellent HER activity and stability. • 166 mV to deliver 10 mA/cm2 achieved and attained 124 mV/dec Tafel slope. • The results indicated Volmer-Heyrovsky process. • 2 wt% SDS-SCO exhibited high ECSA of 19.3 cm2 and low 0.33 Ω R ct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphology optimization with noble elements doping is yet a critical, promising advance to develop an electrochemical energy storage capacity of the prepared materials for supercapacitors. With this, we have synthesized Ag element doped low-cost ZnSnO 3 nanocubes via facile co-precipitation method for electrochemical energy storage application. With the compact particle size, nanoporous nature, high surface area and high adsorption properties, 20% Ag supported ZnSnO 3 nanocubes outperforms than other controlled electrodes. The maximum 517 and 258 F/g capacitance was achieved from cyclic voltammogram (CV) at 10 mV/s and galvanostatic charging/discharging (GCD) profiles at 1 A/g respectively. The capacitive retention of 87.06% was achieved after 5000 cycles for the same electrode. This work will give an interesting outlook for the preparation of novel energy storage electrode materials in diverse morphology for future portable electronic devices sector. • Ag doped low-cost ZnSnO 3 nanocubes via co-precipitation was developed. • 20% Ag supported ZnSnO 3 nanocubes outperforms than other controlled electrodes. • 517 and 258 F/g was achieved from CV at 10 mV/s and GCD profiles at 1 A/g. • 87.06% capacitive retention was achieved after 5000 cycles for same electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NMR quantum simulators have been used for studying various quantum phenomena. Here, using a four-qubit NMR quantum simulator, we investigate the recently postulated quantum pigeonhole effect. In this phenomenon, a set of three particles in a two-path interferometer often appears to be in such a superposition that no two particles can be assigned a single path, thus exhibiting the nonclassical behavior. In our experiments, quantum pigeons are emulated by three nuclear qubits whose states are probed jointly and noninvasively by an ancillary spin. The experimental results are in good agreement with quantum theoretical predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fe-SrWO 4 specific surface area was 3.154, 9.991, 14.541 m2/g. • 0.02 M Fe-SrWO 4 delivered excellent durability and high conductivity. • 0.02 M Fe-SrWO 4 delivered elevated HER with low overpotential and Tafel slope. • ECSA were 26.7, 79.1 and 98.8 mF/cm2for alkaline electrolyte. • ECSA were 8.6, 24.9 and 93.3 mF/cm2 for alkaline natural seawater electrolyte. Water splitting is a popular method to make hydrogen and oxygen gas, and it is one of the risen methods for overcoming energy shortage. Recently, the main challenge is to prepare the efficient materials at a low cost, earth-abundant, high durability, and catalytic action for water splitting applications. In this present work, the pristine and different molar concentrations of Fe doped SrWO 4 was produced via simple co-precipitation technique. The high crystalline peak at 27.6° explored (1 1 2) crystal plane confirmed the SrWO 4 formation. In Raman spectra, active modes such as stretching and bending vibrations of [WO 4 ]2- tetrahedron confirmed the existence of SrWO 4. The flower-like morphology was briefly investigated by using SEM characterization. Moreover, the elements such as Sr, W, O and Fe were existed in proper ratio, which also confirmed the formation of SrWO 4. The prepared electrocatalysts was tested by two different electrolytes such as 1 M KOH electrolyte and seawater + 1 M KOH electrolytes. In addition, electrochemical measurements of electrocatalysts prepared with and without Fe doping were characterized and compared. The overpotential of the prepared electrocatalysts including SW1, SW2 and SW3 were 206, 182, 154 mV (for alkaline electrolyte) and 261, 198, 172 mV (for alkaline natural seawater electrolyte). In both electrolytes, 0.02 M Fe doped SrWO 4 explored outstanding HER action and high durability because of existence of elevated surface area and exclusive morphology. Hence, the present study recommends developing strontium based materials in electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We experimentally demonstrate the phenomenon of dynamical many-body freezing in a periodically driven Ising chain. Theoretically [A. Das, Phys. Rev. B 82, 172402 (2010)], for certain values of the drive parameters all fundamental degrees of freedom contributing to the response dynamics freeze for all time and for arbitrary initial state. Also, since the condition of freezing involves only the drive parameters and not the quantization of the momentum (i.e., the system size), our simulation with a small (3-spin) chain captures all salient features of the freezing phenomenon predicted for the infinite chain. Using optimal control techniques, we realize high-fidelity cosinemodulated drive, and observe nonmonotonic freezing of magnetization at specific frequencies of modulation. Time evolution of the excitations in momentum space has been tracked directly through magnetization measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PVP assisted CuSbS 2 exhibited 40.37 m2/g elevated surface area. • 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 explored 177 mV to attain 10 mA/cm2. • 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 (187 mV/dec) was smaller than pure and 1.0 g PVP-CuSbS 2. • 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 has high intrinsic activity and excellent durability in long-term i- t test. Transition metal dichalcogenides have been the most attractive material in hydrogen evolution reaction due to their advantages such as being cost-effective, earth-abundant, excellent conductivity, etc. In this study, PVP-assisted CuSbS 2 nanorods were produced via hydrothermal technique. In XRD spectra, high intense peak at 28.34, 28.64, 29.54 and 29.80° clearly divulged CuSbS 2 phase. The synthesized products Raman spectra also confirmed the existence of pure orthorhombic phase CuSbS 2. The surface morphology of CuSbS 2 has been studied by scanning electron spectroscopy, which displayed the 1D nanorod morphology and it is further confirmed by the TEM images. The elemental composition of the synthesized products is also characterized by the EDX mapping and EDX spectra, which shows the homogenous distribution of elements such as Cu, Sb and S in proper atomic percentage of 27.16, 21.06 and 51.78 respectively. Compared to the excess amount of PVP assisted CuSbS 2 , optimum amount of PVP assisted CuSbS 2 exhibited 40.37 m2/g elevated surface area. The required over potential for 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 is only the 177 mV to attain 10 mA/cm2. Moreover, Tafel value of 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 (187 mV/dec) was smaller than pure (241 mV/dec) and 1.0 g PVP-CuSbS 2 (219 mV/dec). The estimated turnover frequency (TOF) also showed that 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 has high intrinsic activity and exhibited excellent durability with 90.6% retention in long-term i- t test. Moreover, the catalytic activity of 0.5 g PVP-CuSbS 2 was also high, which exhibited the C dl and ECSA value of 115.3 mF/cm2 and 5.76 cm2 respectively. Therefore, the ternary metal chalcogenide revealed capable superior stability for hydrogen evolution reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Orthorhombic SrV 2 O 6 was confirmed employing X-Ray diffraction. • 0.01 M citric acid assisted SrV 2 O 6 explored 29.11 m2/g high surface area. • 0.01 M CA-SrV 2 O 6 exhibited 78 and 337 mV to deliver 10 and 100 mA/cm2. • It displays better catalytic performance with low 83.3 mV/dec Tafel slope. A novel strontium vanadate for electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction was reported. SrV 2 O 6 orthorhombic phase was confirmed employing X-Ray diffraction with 34, 29 and 34 nm crystallite size of pristine, 0.01 and 0.02 M citric acid assisted SrV 2 O 6. 0.01 M citric acid assisted SrV 2 O 6 high BET surface area was 29.11 m2/g. Electrochemical HER performance revealed that low concentration of citric acid assisted SrV 2 O 6 nanostructure exhibited 78 and 337 mV low overpotential to deliver 10 and 100 mA/cm2 current density. It displays better catalytic performance with low 83.3 mV/dec Tafel slope and small charge transfer resistance of 30.6 Ω. Hence, excellent HER activity may be ascribed due to existence of high surface area, unique one-dimensional morphology and synergetic effect between strontium and vanadium oxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Gd-CeO 2 exhibited low overpotential of 99 mV for HER and 369 mV for OER. • Gd-CeO 2 exhibited small Tafel slope 211 mV/dec for HER and 183 mV/dec for OER. • 2% Gd doped CeO 2 exhibited outstanding stability of 70% retention. Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a significant half reaction in water splitting and it is spirit of energy storage and conversion applications. Recently, high durability and catalytic activity of effective electrodes are necessary to enlarge clean and sustainable energy sources. However, overcoming the overpotential and to improve HER and OER performance is still one of the complicated tasks. Hence, in this present work, gadolinium (Gd) doped cerium oxide (CeO 2) was successfully synthesized through a facile co-precipitation method. High intense peak at 28.5° clearly indicated CeO 2 cubic structure formation identified by using X-Ray diffraction. The optical phonon mode of F 2g and oxygen vacancies mode was detected by using Raman spectra. The optical properties of CeO 2 were detected with help of photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed Ce-O vibration of CeO 2 crystal existence. Surface morphology of CeO 2 was thoroughly studied by using SEM images. HER and OER activity of pristine and Gd doped CeO 2 was thoroughly investigated with the help of linear sweep voltammetry. Compared to pristine CeO 2 , high content of Gd doped CeO 2 exhibited excellent HER and OER activity with low overpotential (99 mV for HER and 369 mV for OER) and small Tafel slope (211 mV/dec for HER and 183 mV/dec for OER). Addition of rare earth metal influenced the structural and catalytic properties of optimized metal oxide. Hence, the incorporation of Gadolinium in CeO 2 plays a crucial role to enhance both HER and OER performance and it is one of the good candidates for energy conversion applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to generate a substantive theory explaining how the staff in a resource-limited neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a developing nation manage to ensure adherence to behavioral modification components of a noise reduction protocol (NsRP) during nonemergency situations. The study was conducted after implementation of an NsRP in a level III NICU of south India. The normal routine of the NICU is highly dynamic because of various categories of staff conducting clinical rounds followed by care-giving activities. This is unpredictably interspersed with very noisy emergency management of neonates who suddenly fall sick. In-depth interviews were conducted with 36 staff members of the NICU (20 staff nurses, six nursing aides, and 10 physicians). Group discussions were conducted with 20 staff nurses and six nursing aides. Data analysis was done in line with the reformulated grounded theory approach, which was based on inductive examination of textual information. The results of the analysis showed that the main concern was to ensure adherence to behavioral modification components of the NsRP. This was addressed by using strategies to ‘‘sustain a culture of silence in NICU during nonemergency situations’’ (core category). The main strategies employed were building awareness momentum, causing awareness percolation, developing a sense of ownership, expansion of caring practices, evolution of adherence, and displaying performance indicators. The ‘‘culture of silence’’ reconditions the existing staff and conditions new staff members joining the NICU. During emergency situations, a ‘‘noisy culture’’ prevailed because of pragmatic neglect of behavioral modification when life support overrode all other concerns. In addition to this, the process of operant conditioning should be formally conducted once every 18 months. The results of this study may be adapted to create similar strategies and establish context specific NsRPs in NICUs with resource constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A quantum computer made up of a controllable set of quantum particles has the potential to efficiently simulate other quantum systems. In this work we studied quantum simulations of single particle Shrödinger equation for certain one-dimensional potentials. Using a five-qubit NMR system, we achieve space discretization with four qubits, and the other qubit is used for preparation of initial states as well as measurement of spatial probabilities. The experimental relative probabilities compare favourably with the theoretical expectations, thus effectively mimicking a small scale quantum simulator. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Unique flower- and spindle-like rods of SrMoO 4 material were explored. • Material revealed OER activity with elevated 409 F/g specific capacitance. • 1:5 M SrMoO 4 showed excellent catalytic activity toward OER. • OER showed 304 mV low overpotential and small 20.5 mV/dec Tafel slope. • SM2 electrode showed better durability during16 h chronoamperometry test. Novel and cost-effective electrocatalysts are most important materials considered for the renewable energy conversion applications. Metal molybdates have gained great attention because of oxygen evolution reaction (OER). These products still need to be improved for practical applications. In this work, SrMoO 4 nanostructures were successfully synthesized via trouble-free co-precipitation method. Scheelite-type tetragonal-phase SrMoO 4 nanostructures were substantiated using X-ray diffraction. Raman spectra confirmed existence of Mo O 4 2 - group whereas Fourier transform infrared spectra corroborated different functional groups in well-crystallized SrMoO 4 material. Morphologies of the prepared SrMoO 4 nanostructures were identified by using the scanning electron microscopy images. The high surface area and porosity of electrocatalysts significantly enhanced the electrochemical performance. Then, the surface area, pore diameter and pore volume of SM2 were 13 m2/g, 4.474 nm and 0.004 cc/g, respectively. The existence of unique flower like morphology and spindle-like rods of SrMoO 4 material confirmed the OER activity with elevated 409 F/g specific capacitance. Compared to different molar ratios of SrMoO 4 materials, 1:5 M ratios of SrMoO 4 nanostructures showed outstanding catalytic action toward OER performance with 187 mV at 10 mA/cm2 and a small 20.5 mV/dec Tafel slope. In addition, SM2 electrode showed better durability in 16 h chronoamperometry test without any decay. Therefore, optimizing the proper molar ratio of SrMoO 4 material is one of the important parameters to obtain a good candidate for electrochemical water-splitting applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CW1, CW2 and CW3 electrodes overpotential were 123, 115 and 102 mV. • Tafel slope values of prepared electrodes were 245, 244 and 238 mV/dec. • CW3 electrode exhibited high C dl value of 32.8 mF/cm2 and enhanced HER. • CW3 electrode exhibited 75% retention in 16 h durability test. Hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) assisted calcium tungstate nanostructures were successfully synthesized through co-precipitation method. The phase and material confirmation of scheelite type calcium tungstate nanostructures with tetragonal unit cell (a = 5.193 and c = 11.255) were done by employing X-ray diffraction (XRD). All the prepared electrocatalysts such as CW1, CW2 and CW3 crystallite sizes were 29.01, 24.86 and 17.40 nm respectively. The calculated band gap values were found to be 3.31, 3.31 and 3.27 eV for CW1, CW2 and CW3 materials respectively. Different morphology such as ball like and dumbbell shaped calcium tungstate were revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Surfactant largely plays a significant role to reduce nanostructures agglomeration. The specific surface area, pore volume and diameter of 0.1 M hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) assisted calcium tungstate nanostructure was about 24.7 m2/g, 0.141 cc/g and 3.365 nm. The surface area of the calcium tungstate nanostructures drastically enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance as recognized by linear sweep voltammetry. The overpotential values of CW1, CW2 and CW3 electrodes were 123, 115 and 102 mV respectively. Solution resistance (R s) and charge transfer resistance (R ct) of synthesized materials was finding out by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and all prepared electrocatalyst estimated values were 1.07, 1.25, 1.34 Ω and 4.06, 1.62, 0.76 Ω respectively. The stability of 0.1 M hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) assisted CaWO 4 was analyzed by 16 h and it exhibited excellent robustness without any decay. The synthesized CaWO 4 material exhibited superior hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity and the prepared electrodes was capable electro catalysts in water splitting applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MnS achieved 191F/g at 10 mV/s in 1 M KOH. • MnS exhibited 295 mA/g with 184 mV overpotential. • MnS explored low solution resistance and charge-transfer resistance. • Hydrogen production studied under 450-Watt Xe-Hg light irradiation. • Hydrogen production average rate activity was 223.4 mmol.h−1. Manganese based nanostructures have been extensively used in different applications such as solar cell, photoelectrochemical and opto-electronics devices. Manganese sulfide nanostructure was prepared employing hydrothermal technique with different concentration of hydrazine hydrate (HZH). In observed XRD pattern, high intensity peak at (2 0 0) confirmed cubic structure formation of MnS nanostructures. MnS nanomaterials with high concentration of reducing agent such as hydrazine hydrate exhibited better morphology with maximum conductivity and investigated by using TEM images. MnS@4 ml HZH achieved large 191F/g specific capacitance at 10 mV/s in 1 M KOH. MnS@4 ml HZH sample obviously showed high 191F/g specific capacitance than other two samples. MnS@4 ml HZH exhibited high current density (295 mA/g) with the low overpotential of 184 mV. Strong reducing and complexing agent of hydrazine hydrate controlled nanoparticles size and structure is beneficial to improve its surface area and porous nature of synthesized material resulting to exhibit the excellent OER and HER activity. The obtained surface area, pore volume and pore diameter were found to be 13.95 m2/g, 0.027 cc/g and 3.948 nm respectively. The photocatalytic hydrogen production was also studied for MnS@4 ml HZH sample under light irradiation of 450-watt Xe-Hg lamp, which exhibited the average rate activity of 223.4 mmol.h−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast dissolving tablets of freely soluble tramadol hydrochloride and poorly soluble levofloxacin were designed with a view to study the difference in disintegration time, wetting efficiency. In this study, the effects of a natural super disintegrants such as isolated mucilage of Plantago ovata, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and synthetic super disinegrants like croscarmellose sodium (Ac-di-sol) were compared in the different concentrations (2%-9%) to prepare fast dissolving tablets (FDT) by direct compression method. The blends of all formulations were evaluated for various pre-formulation factors. Tablets were evaluated for weight variation, hardness, disintegration time, drug content, friability and in vitro dissolution. The physicochemical parameters of dried powdered mucilages were studied. The formulations of tramadol prepared with mucilage of Plantago ovata and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis showed disintegration time of 71 sec and 72 sec respectively with 90% drug release within 15 min. Formulations of levofloxacin prepared with mucilage of Plantago ovata and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis showed 72 sec and 75 sec respectively with 90% drug release within 15 min. The results showed that natural super disintegrants found to have better disintegrating property than the most widely used synthetic super disintegrant croscarmellose sodium in the formulations of fast dissolving tablets. The stability studies were conducted as per the ICH guidelines and the formulations were found to be stable. The comparative study of poorly soluble drug levofloxacin and freely soluble drug tramadol hydrochloride did not show any difference in disintegration time or wetting efficiency with natural or synthetic super disintegrants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

molecule having a ketone group between two thiophene groups was synthesized. Presence of alternating electron donating and accepting moieties gives this material a donor-acceptor-donor (DAD) architecture. PolyDAD was synthesized from DAD monomer by oxidative polymerization. Device quality films of polyDAD were fabricated using pulsed laser deposition technique. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) data of both as synthesized and film indicate the material does not degrade during ablation. Optical band gap was determined to be about 1.45 eV. Four orders of magnitude increase in conductivity was observed from as synthesized to pulsed laser deposition (PLD) fabricated film of polyDAD. Annealing of polyDAD films increase conductivity, indicating better ordering of the molecules upon heating. Rectifying devices were fabricated from polyDAD, and preliminary results are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Rhombohedral phase of MnCO 3 nanostructures was determined. • MnCO 3 @15 ml EG electrode exhibited a small Tafel slope value. • MnCO 3 @15 ml EG enhanced its catalytic performance. • Exhibited high current density 257 mA/g with low 184 mV overpotential. • Photocatalytic MnCO 3 hydrogen production was explored. In this research, manganese carbonate nanostructures were prepared employing simple co-precipitation route using ethylene glycol. Rhombohedral phase of MnCO 3 nanostructures was determined by X-ray diffraction. MnCO 3 @15 ml EG electrode exhibited small Tafel slope value and significantly facilitating its OER performance. The fabricated electrode materials of MnCO 3 nanostructure exhibited high 257 mA/g current density with low 184 mV overpotential. The prepared electrodes explored excellent OER performance and good stability over 16 h without degradation. Organic additive of ethylene glycol tuning its morphology to favor of OER activity and it enhanced the electrochemical performance of MnCO 3 nanomaterial. MnCO 3 material was also subjected to photocatalytic hydrogen production. There was no activity noticed in the pure water even after 3 h of experiments. The following factor may enhance the H 2 evolution rate. They are introducing hetero-atoms in crystal lattice points, combination with carbon materials such as GO, g-C 3 N 4 etc and composed of heterostructures with some other material such as TMDs, CdS, TiO 2 and ZnS etc. Hence, mono metal carbonate of MnCO 3 doesn't show any H 2 activity and the fabricated electrode was suitable candidate for oxygen evolution reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, cobalt ferrite nanomaterials was prepared employing simple co-precipitation technique and annealed at 300, 400 and 600 °C. XRD study revealed the formation of cubic structure of CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles and confirmed by high intense peak at 2θ value of 35.3°. The creation of ferrite phase was further confirmed by the studies such as FTIR, Raman and PL spectra. FTIR spectra confirmed the occurrence of Fe–O and Co–O metal oxygen vibrations and the lattice defects and oxygen vacancies of the CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles were explored by PL spectra. No other signals were detected in Raman spectra, which explored pure spinal ferrites. The energy band gap values are obtained by using Tauc plot and the obtained band gap values for all the cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were 2.84, 2.75 and 2.89 eV respectively. The morphology of synthesized cobalt ferrite nanomaterials were observed from the SEM and TEM images. The product annealed at 400 °C showed the better morphology with least amount of agglomeration in comparison to other SEM images. In addition, SAED pattern of magnetic nanoparticles confirmed the existence of polycrystalline nature of the CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles. The obtained surface area of CF2 sample was 5.082 m2 g−1 and pore volume and diameter of CF2 sample was found to be 0.013 cc/g and 3.937 nm respectively. Then, the product annealed at 400 °C exhibited most excellent activity and degraded 74% of cationic dye in 80 min, and it also exhibited excellent stability even maintain in three cycles. [Display omitted] • CoFe 2 O 4 nanomaterial (50 nm) explored 5.082 m2 g−1 surface area. • CoFe 2 O 4 nanomaterial revealed 0.013 cc/g pore volume and 3.937 nm diameter. • Photocatalytic cationic degradation mechanism was explored. • Prepared CoFe 2 O 4 nanomaterial degraded 74% of cationic dye in 80 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of an economical, abundant, stable, and greatly active electrocatalyst for water oxidation is extremely important for future energy conversion system. Electrochemical water splitting is a new move toward H 2 and O 2 gas production. It can be used in sustainable and pollution-free energy conversion applications. In this work, Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites were successfully synthesized with different molar ratios by facile hydrothermal method for electrochemical water oxidation. Mixed phase structure of Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites was confirmed by X-ray diffraction spectra and well identified by highest peak of Ti 2 O 3 in 2θ values of 33.0 and CeO 2 in 2θ values of 28.5. The characteristic peaks from Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy further confirmed Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposite formation. Existence of multidimensional nanostructures such as nanoparticles and small nanocubes of Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites were investigated by scanning electron microscope images. Mesoporous nature of Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites was further analyzed by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. The high surface area could benefit the Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites with greatly improved oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. In three molar ratios, 1:3 M ratios of Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites showed high catalytic action at overpotential of 244 mV. The best OER electrocatalyst was obtained by 1:3 M ratios of Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 nanocomposites, which exhibited high current density and high specific capacitance values of 238 mA/g and 517 F/g, respectively. Therefore, Ti/Ce molar ratio played a crucial role in enhancing the OER performance. • 1:3 M ratio Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 showed high catalytic action with 244 mV overpotential. • OER electrocatalyst exhibited 238 mA/g current density and 517 F/g specific capacitance. • In 16 h CA, 1:3 ratio Ti 2 O 3 –CeO 2 exhibited 184 mA/g current density with 78% retention. • Molar ratio of Ti/Ce participate crucial responsibility to enhance OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]