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• Auxins have an essential role in callus induction. • Application of ABA causes high quality callus. • 3 % of sucrose has a positive effect on callus features. • Modeling by ML methods is required to predict the results. Saffron is a spice derived from its flower (Crocus sativus L.) and it is grown for its medicinal and culinary uses worldwide. Callus is an intermediate stage between explant and in vitro organogenesis. The fate of embryogenesis and organogenesis depends on the quality of the callus. Callogenesis is a complex biological process and is affected by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Machine learning (ML), can effectively cope with the time and cost constraints of experiments. In this study, we emphasized the effects of sucrose and phytohormones (auxin, and abscisic acid) on callogenesis with the aid of a machine-learning algorithm. Among the different tested hormone combinations, maximum callus proliferation was observed in the MS media plate containing 3 % sucrose, supplemented with 100 µM ABA, 2 and 4 mg/L NAA, and 2,4-D. A total of eight different ML tools were used to predict the efficacy of inputs on callogenesis. Out of all applied algorithms, Xtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) and Gradient Boosted Regression (GBR) provide better prediction performance than other models on callus induction and proliferation. SHAP analysis reveals the significance of sucrose, plant growth regulators (NAA, 2,4-D, and ABA), and time on callogenesis. Therefore, machine learning programs can effectively save cost and time by guiding experiments and facilitating optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has been experienced as the most significant global disaster after the Spanish flue in 1918. Millions of people lost their life due to a lack of preparedness and ineffective strategies for managing humanitarian supply chains (HSC). Based on the learnings from this pandemic outbreak, different strategies for managing the effective HSC have been explored in the present context of pandemics through a systematic literature review. The findings highlight some of the major challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as lack of planning and preparedness, extended shortages of essential lifesaving items, inadequate lab capacity, lack of transparency and visibility, inefficient distribution network, high response time, dependencies on single sourcing for the medical equipment and medicines, lack of the right information on time, and lack of awareness about the protocol for the treatment of the viral disease. Some of the significant learnings observed from this analysis are the use of multiple sourcing of essential items, joint procurement, improving collaboration among all stakeholders, applications of IoT and blockchain technologies for improving tracking and traceability of essential commodities, application of data analytics tools for accurate prediction of next possible COVID wave/disruptions and optimization of distribution network. Limited studies are focused on finding solutions to these problems in managing HSC. Therefore, as a future scope, researchers could find solutions to optimizing the distribution network in context to pandemics, improving tracing and tracking of items during sudden demand, improving trust and collaborations among different agencies involved in HSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a letter published in the journal Neurological Sciences. It discusses a case of drug refractory epilepsy in a 10-year-old female with MOG antibody-associated disorders (MOGAD). The patient presented with seizures and behavioral abnormalities, and had been previously treated with multiple antiepileptic drugs. The letter describes the patient's medical history, examination findings, and diagnostic tests, including brain MRI, CSF examination, and antibody testing. The patient was treated with steroids and immunosuppressants, which resulted in a decrease in seizure frequency. The authors emphasize the expanding spectrum of MOGAD and the potential role of immunotherapy in epilepsy associated with anti-MOG antibodies. [Extracted from the article]

In this article, a wideband transition from a microstrip transmission line to a microstrip spoof surface plasmon polariton (SSPP) transmission line is reported. The proposed transition is realized to achieve better performance starting from low frequencies up to 40 GHz. The proposed shape of the unit cell is taken in such a manner that the momentum, impedance, and polarization of the microstrip line can be matched with that of the SSPP transmission line. The wide operating band of the transition can be achieved by perturbing only the shape of the unit cell. Extra care is taken in choosing the shape of the unit cell so that the fabrication of the circuit becomes easier, especially at millimeter-wave frequencies. The proposed transition has a good transition-occupation ratio and transmission efficiency. The achieved transition-occupation ratio and transition efficiency for all three designed cases are excellent, and it is 34.18%, 44%, and 39% for p = 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm, respectively. It is a potential candidate for realizing millimeter-wave antennas and devices due to its attractive properties, such as compact layout, low fabrication cost, ease of fabrication even at millimeter-wave frequencies, and good operational characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), often known as a heart attack, is a medical emergency that is the top cause of mortality for both men and women worldwide. Recent evidence suggests that it is caused by the sudden blockage of a coronary artery by a blood clot, also known as coronary thrombosis. Due to the regional impending of blood supply, heart muscles become damaged. Uric acid has been shown in large cohort studies to be an important independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality. As serum uric acid (SUA) is an early predictor hence study will help to devise a better remedy for AMI. AIM: This study aims to study the levels of SUA in patients with AMI as compared to the control. OBJECTIVE: The primary goal of this study is to examine SUA levels in patients with AMI and to correlate uric acid levels with associated mortality in AMI. The secondary goal is to predict AMI early diagnosis, better management and treatment, and prognosis. METHODS: The current study was conducted at the department of biochemistry and the central investigation laboratory at our institute, in partnership with the department of medicine, intense cardiac care units, medical intensive care units, and emergency and private hospitals. A total of 100 patients were investigated. There were 50 instances of AMI and 50 age-matched healthy controls. The Microlab 300 analyzers (semi-autoanalyzer) were used to assess SUA concentrations, and the comparisons between the two groups were examined using an unpaired t-test. A P < 0.05 was deemed statistically significant. RESULTS: There was a substantial rise in the mean level of SUA in cases on the 0, 3rd, and 7th days were 8.503 + 2.976 mg/dl, 5.472 + 2.683 mg/dl, and 4.992 + 1.707 mg/dl day, respectively, which were higher than controls group (3.976 + 0.947 mg/dl). Comparison between control and AMI SUA on 0 and 3rd days was found to be more significant than the 7th day. There was a substantial rise in blood uric acid levels in cases when compared to healthy controls (P < 0.005). CONCLUSION: Thus, the study shows that blood uric acid levels play a significant role in the diagnosis and therapy of AMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long‐lived perennial plants optimize their shoot architecture by responding to seasonal cues. The main strategy used by plants of temperate and boreal regions with respect to surviving the extremely unfavourable conditions of winter comprises the protection of their apical and lateral meristematic tissues. This involves myriads of transcriptional, translational and metabolic changes in the plants because shoot architecture is controlled by multiple pathways that regulate processes such as bud formation and flowering, small RNAs, environmental factors (especially light quality, photoperiod and temperature), hormones, and sugars. Recent studies have begun to reveal how these pathways are recruited for the seasonal adaptation and regulation of shoot architecture in perennial plants, including the role of a regulatory module consisting of antagonistic players terminal flower 1 (TFL1) and like‐ap1 (LAP1) in the hybrid aspen. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of the genetic control of shoot architecture in perennials compared to in annuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread use of biofertilizers, rather than chemical fertilizers, is significantly more likely to accomplish sustainable agriculture production globally. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are chemical-free alternatives to conventional crop protection in agriculture. Pseudomonas spp. are unique among the PGPR genera in terms of root colonization, nitrogen fixation, production of exopolysaccharides, siderophores, hydrogen cyanide (HCN), and phytohormones, solubilization of phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, biofilm formation, antioxidant activities, stress adaptation abilities, and positive interactions with other microbial communities. They also aid plant development by promoting biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, as well as supporting host plant nutrition. Pseudomonas is regarded as an environmentally acceptable alternative to harmful chemical fertilizers because of its active growth-promoting actions. However, to achieve this goal, workers must first get a complete understanding of the numerous processes used by Pseudomonas, allowing them to fully exploit the bacteria potential in the future. Therefore, the present review has been undertaken to discuss the fundamental processes used by Pseudomonas spp. to promote plant development and reduce environmental stresses. In addition, we described some reported Pseudomonas-based biofertilizers worldwide and the presence of potential genes in the genome of different Pseudomonas strains to understand the mechanism of Pseudomonas mediated plant growth promotion at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to prioritize the factors for the successful implementation of total productive maintenance (TPM). Design/methodology/approach: The technique used for prioritization is the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Findings: The commitment and involvement of the top management, i.e. the leadership team, is the most critical success factor in the successful implementation of TPM. Employee training is another vital factor. Top management should also encourage a culture favorable for information flow, equipment ownership, the involvement of people and quality management throughout the organization. Research limitations/implications: Manufacturing organizations interested in improving productivity through the implementation of TPM should first involve the leadership team and seek their full support and train all the employees in this philosophy. However, the findings cannot be generalized for global application due to the inputs taken from experts in AHP from limited geography. Practical implications: Reducing production costs is a universal expectation of business leaders. TPM can be used as a long-term strategy to improve productivity by the organization. Social implications: All employees have to be trained in this philosophy, and as part of the training and the implementation of TPM, they feel empowered and committed to the organization. Originality/value: This study has illustrated the use of AHP for the prioritization of success factors. Prioritization of success factors will help in strategy formulation by management for effective maintenance. It will help in improving the productivity and performance of the organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: United Nations SDG-2 and SDG-3 pledges to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition and reduce premature deaths of children persisting amongst 821 million people globally. Chickpeas, the second largest food legume in the world, are important due to dietary, therapeutic and health values since Roman times and are ideal source of protein, carbohydrate, minerals and ß-carotene. Therefore, it is central to alleviate malnutrition and ensuring good health. Methods: We conducted experiments during Rabi crop season 2018-19 and 2019-20 and studied proximate nutritional compositions such as protein, its bioavailability enhancement procedures, optimum sprouting stage and potential genotypes. The present series experiment as 6th one was undertaken to find out the impacts of varying seed seedlings germination stages at 0, 3 and 6 days on observed estimates of protein contents in 12 potential genotypes of chickpea including Pusa-256 as standard (control) check. Result: We noticed erosion of reserved seed nutrients activating seedling growth and enhancing nutritional values, observed protein in the range of 18.96 to 28.69%, discovered 6 days sprouts giving highest digestible protein and identified genotypes BG-1092, ICC-11378, JG-74 as potential resources to be utilized in breeding programmes for harnessing their genetic potentials for enriching protein and other nutritional components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present era of the circular economy, sustainable service quality has become an order winning criteria for all logistics provider across the world. The selection of appropriate logistics service providers (LSPs) greatly influences the performance of supply chains in terms of sustainability indicators. Most of the previous studies have not considered sustainability measures in the evaluation of logistics service providers. Therefore, the uniqueness of this study is that we are proposing a framework for selecting the best logistics provider based on sustainable service quality. Total seventeen attributes related to sustainable service quality are finalized based on literature review and subsequent focused group discussions. Through a questionnaire-based survey, data from 150 customers of LSPs are collected. Data is analysed through factor analysis and seventeen attributes of sustainable service quality are categorized into five factors namely Commitment, Competence, Communication, Creativity & Customization, and Coordination and Collaboration. It is named as a 5C framework. This framework is further used to illustrate the selection of best LSP based on sustainable service quality. Listed attributes are evaluated through hybrid Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) techniques. This decision-making framework is illustrated with the help of a real-life case study. Sensitivity analysis is also done to validate the robustness of the proposed framework. From this study, it has been observed that the development of competencies for the adoption of sustainable practices should be the thrust area for logistics service providers. Findings imply that the logistics providers should give more focus on sustainable network optimization, response time reduction, reliable green services, flexibility in green processes, and development of mutual trust with all stakeholders to become the first choice of their customers. Insights from the study will help LSPs to develop their strategies for ensuring sustainable service quality to customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The investigation was conducted to assess the diverseness and identify novel resources to be utilized in chickpea abiotic‐biotic stress resistance breeding for the antioxidant enzyme Superoxide Dismutase. The plants were grown in a randomized block design in triplicates under all suitable agronomic practices using PUSA 256 as a check. Fresh leaves were collected for the estimation of enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) and DNA extraction. Number of pods were recorded on 20 individual plants from the middle of the row for each of the 12 genotypes. Employing 32 Sequence Tagged Microsatellite Site (STMS) markers together with morpho‐biochemical data, Jaccard's similarity coefficients along with dendrograms were generated to compare and assess the diversity among the genotypes. Results: Among the 12 chickpea genotypes, poorest versus best performers were identified as BGD‐70 versus ICRISAT‐3668 for SOD activity. Out of 32 STMS primers, 80 alleles with 2.5 an average per loci were found. The marker TA‐80 with the highest polymorphic information content (PIC) could be identified to be used in molecular characterization. The meticulous perusal revealed that the genotypes ICRISAT‐3668 and SBD 377, distantly located on different molecular clusters, expressed the higher SOD activity with the observed distances indicating genetic governance, probably by a limited number of polygenes/OTLs and might be utilized as a potential source for the SOD activity for chickpea abiotic‐biotic stress resistance breeding programs. Conclusion: The identified novel genetic resources may be used to widen the germplasm base, prepare a maintainable catalog and identify systematic blueprints for future chickpea abiotic‐biotic stresses breeding strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is one of the world's highly significant commercial crops. The amounts of synthetic nitrogen (N2) fertilizer required to grow the sugarcane plant at its initial growth stages are higher, which increases the production costs and adverse environmental consequences globally. To combat this issue, sustainable environmental and economic concerns among researchers are necessary. The endophytic diazotrophs can offer significant amounts of nitrogen to crops through the biological nitrogen fixation mediated nif gene. The nifH gene is the most extensively utilized molecular marker in nature for studying N2 fixing microbiomes. The present research intended to determine the existence of novel endophytic diazotrophs through culturable and unculturable bacterial communities (EDBCs). The EDBCs of different tissues (root, stem, and leaf) of five sugarcane cultivars (Saccharum officinarum L. cv. Badila, S. barberi Jesw.cv Pansahi, S. robustum, S. spontaneum, and S. sinense Roxb.cv Uba) were isolated and molecularly characterized to evaluate N2 fixation ability. The diversity of EDBCs was observed based on nifH gene Illumina MiSeq sequencing and a culturable approach. In this study, 319766 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified from 15 samples. The minimum number of OTUs was recorded in leaf tissues of S. robustum and maximum reads in root tissues of S. spontaneum. These data were assessed to ascertain the structure, diversity, abundance, and relationship between the microbial community. A total of 40 bacterial families with 58 genera were detected in different sugarcane species. Bacterial communities exhibited substantially different alpha and beta diversity. In total, 16 out of 20 genera showed potent N2-fixation in sugarcane and other crops. According to principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering (Bray–Curtis dis) evaluation of OTUs, bacterial microbiomes associated with root tissues differed significantly from stem and leaf tissues of sugarcane. Significant differences often were observed in EDBCs among the sugarcane tissues. We tracked and validated the plethora of individual phylum strains and assessed their nitrogenase activity with a culture-dependent technique. The current work illustrated the significant and novel results of many uncharted endophytic microbial communities in different tissues of sugarcane species, which provides an experimental system to evaluate the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) mechanism in sugarcane. The novel endophytic microbial communities with N2-fixation ability play a remarkable and promising role in sustainable agriculture production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Field trial was conducted to assess the effect of genotypes, nitrogen management and iron sulphide nanoparticles (nFeS 2) on oilseed Brassica. • Experiment comprised 24 treatment combinations, incorporating 3 distinct species, 2 nitrogen strategies, and 4 levels of nFeS 2. • Application of 75 % RDF with 25% N through FYM registered superiority over 100 % RDF in respect of growth, yield, and HUE. • Application of 8 ppm FeS 2 NPs shows better result in respect of the 4 and 12 ppm for inducing growth, yield, and HUE. The persistent and indiscriminate application of low-efficiency fertilizers, coupled with environmental degradation, poses a substantial threat to the sustainability of agricultural fields. To address these limitations, employing nanotechnology in agriculture emerges as a promising strategy that transforms traditional production systems into advanced agricultural practices, ensuring the sustainability of soil health and crop production. Therefore, a field trial was conducted to assess the effect of genotypes, nitrogen management and iron sulphide nanoparticles on oilseed Brassica at Varanasi in India. The experiment comprised 24 treatment combinations, incorporating three distinct oilseed Brassica species (B. carinata, B. napus, B. juncea) in the main plot, two nitrogen management strategies (100 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and 75 % RDF with 25 % nitrogen through farmyard manure) in subplots, and four levels of nano iron sulphide (0, 4, 8, and 12 ppm) as sub-subplot treatments. This was arranged in a split-split plot design and replicated thrice during the winter seasons (November–April) of 2017–18 and 2018–19. The statistical examination of the experimental data revealed that among the various treatments, the application of 8 ppm iron sulphide nanoparticles through foliar spraying, in combination with 75 % RDF and 25 % nitrogen from farmyard manure (FYM) in B. juncea , demonstrated the highest values for parameters such as plant height (cm), dry matter accumulation (g plant−1), the count of primary and secondary branches, number of seeds siliqua−1, number of siliquae plant−1, siliqua length (cm) and seed yield (kg ha−1). Comparable results were noted at different morphological stages concerning dry matter heat use efficiency (DM-HUE), with B. carinata exhibiting the highest efficiency in utilizing heat. B. juncea and B. napus treated with 8 ppm iron sulphide nanoparticles outperformed other treatment combinations in terms of interaction, recording the highest dry matter and seed yield followed by 12 ppm while B. napus treated with water spray recorded the lowest values for the same during both years of research. Therefore, the current study highlights the significance of foliage application of 8 ppm iron sulphide nanoparticles with 25 % nitrogen substitution through FYM along with 74 % RDF in comparison to other treatments promoting sustainable oilseed Brassica production in Mid Indo-Gangetic Plains. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-harvest commodities wastage due to decay caused by the pathogenic fungi generates a huge amount of economic losses worldwide. Different species of Penicillium spoil various foodstuffs and produce mycotoxins, alkaloids and other harmful cellular metabolites in the food. Presently, synthetic fungicides, mainly used for fungal diseases control, are associated with harmful impacts on the environment and consumer health. Hence, non-fungicide based eco-friendly and commercially viable alternative is proposed for ensuring food safety. In recent years, the safer options that have been explored include microbe mediated biological control, botanical pesticides, use of generally regarded as safe (GRAS) compounds, and innovative physical approaches including cold plasma, and pulsed light techniques. These emerging technologies could be utilized in the multiple hurdle concept of disease management for suppressing pathogens growth at different stages of spoilage development. This review, first of its kind, summarizes the exclusive information on Penicillium spp. induced spoilage, associated toxicological concerns and the potential of non-fungicide-based promising approaches for managing fungal wastage in the harvested horticultural commodities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a wide‐angle forward to backward scanning wideband leaky‐wave antenna (LWA) based on the microstrip spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs) transmission line (TL) is proposed. The proposed microstrip SSPP TL has tapered corrugations on both sides of the metallic strip conductor. After designing an efficient transition with a good transition occupation ratio and excellent transmission efficiency, a wide‐angle scanning LWA is realised. A methodology of achieving high gain and wide‐angle scanning by adjusting a large number of radiating elements in a compact area is proposed. The proposed antenna operates in the frequency range of 8.9–12.7 GHz having fractional bandwidth of 35.18% with a continuous scanning range from −35° to +51°. The maximum gain of 19.03 dBi with a maximum radiation efficiency of 90% is achieved from the structure. The proposed antenna can easily be integrated with planar wireless communication systems due to the presence of an unbroken ground plane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smut, the most important sugarcane fungal disease in China, is caused by Sporisorium scitamineum. Smut infection causes severe cane and sugar yield loss. Whole-plant resistance response is characterized by the expression of a large number of pathogenesis-related proteins and genes. Here, proteomic analysis by isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification was conducted to identify differentially expressed proteins of two sugarcane varieties with contrasting resistance to smut, i.e. Yacheng71-374 (smut-susceptible) and GT29 (smut-resistant) following S. scitamineum infection. A total of 125 and 290 proteins were found differentially expressed after whip appearance in Yacheng71-374 and GT29 sugarcane varieties. Increased up-regulation of peroxidase and catalase and proteins involved in photosynthesis, calcium signaling, abscisic acid biosynthesis, and protein metabolism, were observed in GT29 as compared to Yacheng71-374, suggesting their potential involvement in smut defense mechanism(s) in sugarcane. The expression level of five important defense-related enzymes i.e. chitinase, glucanase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase was analyzed by RT-qPCR. The expression of these enzymes was found enhanced considerably in GT29 as compared to Yacheng71-374 for up to six months following pathogen infection. These results provide new molecular insights into long-term responses of sugarcane to smut infection, a much over-looked aspect of sugarcane smut disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's oceans have played an important role in sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide through solubility and the action of algae. Fixation of atmospheric carbon dioxide by photoautotrophic algal cultures has the potential to diminish the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, thereby helping to alleviate the trend toward global warming. This work investigates the role of algae in controlling the level of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Partial Rank Correlation Coefficients (PRCCs) technique is used to address how the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide is affected by changes in a specific parameter disregarding the uncertainty over the rest of the model parameters. Parameters related to algal growth are shown to significantly reduce the level of atmospheric CO2. Further, we explore the dynamics of nonautonomous system by incorporating the seasonal variations of some ecologically important model parameters. Our nonautonomous system exhibits globally attractive positive periodic solution, and also the appearance of double periodic solution is observed. Moreover, by letting the seasonally forced parameters as almost periodic functions of time, we show almost periodic behavior of the system. Our findings suggest that the policy makers should focus on continuous addition of nutrients in the ocean to accelerate the algal growth thereby reducing the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Around 196 countries committed to become part of United Nation’s Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) through Paris Agreement and pledged to achieve carbon neutrality goals by 2050. The organizations have recognised the importance of digital technologies for achieving sustainable goals. To accelerate the transition to low-carbon energy systems, to best of author’s knowledge, this is the first attempt which addresses issues of BCT for decarbonization in logistics sector in developing economy using theories like TOE (technological, organizational and environmental) and IRT (Innovation resistance theory). A comprehensive literature review was undertaken using PRISMA to recognise the barriers linked to the blockchain technology adoption for reducing carbon emissions. To prioritize these barriers, inputs from ten experts belonging to different industry verticals and academics were taken. Ordinal Priority approach (OPA) is used to prioritise them. Further, the cause-and-effect relationship among the listed barriers is established using Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique. A real-life case illustration on Indian logistics company has been considered and the barrier intensity index is computed using Graph Theory Matrix approach (GTMA) for the case company. The results suggest that ‘Organizational Barriers’ are the most crucial category of barriers followed by ‘Environmental Barriers’. The results also show that the organizational barriers and environmental barriers belong to the cause group whereas technical and risk barriers are the part of the effect group. Based on the findings of GTMA, it has been observed that the overall barrier intensity index for the case company lies close to the centre of the worst and best theoretical values. The intensity index value will help case company to position themselves properly to formulate new strategies for secured and carbon neutral operations. Researchers and supply chain practitioners can devise new strategies and policies for achieving net zero goals by understanding the interplay between blockchain technology, organizational policies, and environmental outcomes. This research work can contribute to provide distinct perspective to look upon the BCT adoption issues in developing countries and can assist logistics industry stakeholders to plan and design new integrated BCT systems with carbon reduction initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trees cover vast areas of the Earth's landmasses. They mitigate erosion, capture carbon dioxide, produce oxygen and support biodiversity, and also are a source of food, raw materials and energy for human populations. Understanding the growth cycles of trees is fundamental for many areas of research. Trees, like most other organisms, have evolved a circadian clock to synchronize their growth and development with the daily and seasonal cycles of the environment. These regular changes in light, daylength and temperature are perceived via a range of dedicated receptors and cause resetting of the circadian clock to local time. This allows anticipation of daily and seasonal fluctuations and enables trees to co-ordinate their metabolism and physiology to ensure vital processes occur at the optimal times. In this review, we explore the current state of knowledge concerning the regulation of growth and seasonal dormancy in trees, using information drawn from model systems such as Populus spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel combination of loop and dipole antennas into a Yagi-like structure is here investigated to implement a wearable antenna. The textile antenna is designed for being integrated into a smart glove together with a compact UHF-radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. A number of compact Yagi-like textile structures have been analyzed and compared, which consist of a rhombus-shaped folded dipole and parasitic elements acting as either a reflector or directors. The latter are needed to focus the field out of the operator hand, so limiting the radiation toward undesired directions. Four compact Yagi-like layouts (with one or two directors, with one director and one reflector, and with one reflector and two directors) are developed on a stretchable fabric and their performance is measured in terms of reflection coefficient and near-field distribution. Read range performance is measured by using COTS RFID reader and tags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients undergoing abdominal surgeries experience significant amount of postoperative pain. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a good choice of postoperative pain relief in abdominal surgery. Dexamethasone and clonidine are drugs used with ropivacaine for prolongation of the local anesthetic effect and studies have shown proven efficacy of both of these. Aim: This study aims to study the effect of addition of clonidine and dexamethasone to ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided TAP block in patients undergoing abdominal surgeries. We primarily compared the quality and duration of postoperative analgesia. Materials and Methods: This randomized double-blind study was done after taking approval from Institutional Ethical Committee and written informed consent from all the patients. Sixty patients undergoing abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into two groups: Group-RC (n = 30) and Group-RD (n = 30). Patients in both the groups were given bilateral ultrasound-guided TAP block at the end of surgery. Patients in Group-RC received 20 ml ropivacaine 0.2% with 75 µg clonidine on each side and patients in Group-RD received 20 ml ropivacaine 0.2% with 4 mg dexamethasone on each side. Results: Visual analogue scale score for pain was significantly less in Group-RC as compared to Group-RD at all-time intervals (P <.05). Duration of pain relief in Group-RC was significantly greater than in Group-RD (16.50 ± 6.68 vs. 9.67 ± 6.46 h; P = 0.001). Requirement of rescue analgesia was also significantly less in Group-RC as compared to Group-RD (80% vs. 90%; P = 0.014). Except for a higher incidence of nausea in Group-RC, there was no other significant difference in the incidence of complications between the two groups. Conclusion: Addition of Clonidine (75 µg) to ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided TAP block provides better and prolonged postoperative analgesia as compared to addition of dexamethasone (4 mg) without any significant side-effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane is a leading biofuel crop besides being a source of crystal sugar and biomaterials worldwide. This study chiefly focuses on the role of diazotrophic bacteria isolated from sugarcane rhizosphere exhibiting different plant growth-promoting traits and biocontrol activities. Several bacterial isolates were obtained from the rhizosphere soil samples of four sugarcane cultivars. Out of these, 23 strains were selected and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing which confirmed different PGP-traits, biocontrol, and nitrogenase activities with nifH gene amplification. Two prominent strains, Kosakonia radicincitans-BA1 and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia-COA2 were selected for further analysis. Biolog plate assay was used to establish the utilization of various carbon and nitrogen sources and pH and osmotic stress tolerance for both strains. Colonization of selected strains in the sugarcane plant was observed by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy exhibited bacterial cells were frequently located in sugarcane tissues. Inoculation of the strains in GT11 and GXB9 cultivars led to a significant increase in growth parameters, nitrogen content, expression of nifH, and stress-related genes under greenhouse conditions. This is the first study to explore K. radicincitans and S. maltophilia as nitrogen-fixing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in sugarcane for disease management and reduce the practice of chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Empyema thoracis (ET) is an accumulation of pus in the pleural space. Considering the advantages of Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS), including reduced length of hospitalisation, lower postoperative morbidity and mortality, VATS is the treatment of choice for cases of stage 3 empyema. The objective of this study was to study the age-sex profile, clinical presentation, etiologic agents, management and the overall treatment outcome of empyema thoracis after early VATS in children. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study, conducted in the Department of Paediatrics, Rangadore Memorial Hospital, Bangalore, from November 2018 to March 2020. All children in the age group of 0 to 18 years diagnosed to have pyogenic empyema and presenting in stage 1 and 2 during the study period were included in the study. In the present study, 15 children were found to be having empyema (stage 1 and 2). Results: Majority of patients (66.6%) were seen in the age group of one to five years. Fever (100%), breathlessness (66.66%), and cough (80%) were the commonest presenting features. Bacteriological isolation was possible only in three cases (20%). Patients were treated with antibiotics and primary VATS in majority of cases (55.33%). Average duration of hospital stay in VATS group was 12.11 days. Conclusions: Empyema thoracis mainly affects younger children. Common presenting features are fever, difficulty in breathing and cough. Appropriate antibiotics and early VATS may be acceptable modality for management of pyogenic empyema thoracis in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increasing complexity of manufacturing processes and automation, maintenance of all machines and equipments has become challenging task for production managers today. Due to lack of sensitivity for maintenance, share of maintenance cost in total product cost is also increasing along with decreased productivity. Organizations are either quite slow or getting failed in updating their maintenance systems with time. Keeping in view the importance of maintenance in today's context, this study has tried to develop a framework for a sustainable maintenance system for manufacturing organizations. Usually organizations are not able to identify critical factors for effective maintenance. Therefore, in this context, the study has identified fourteen factors for the effective maintenance management from the literature review. Some of these factors are process oriented and some are result oriented. Interpretive structural modeling approach is applied for the development of structural relationship among the factors from a strategic perspective. Fuzzy MICMAC analysis is then carried out to categorize these factors based on their driving and dependence value. Further to prioritise major driving factors, Technique for order preferences by similarity of an ideal solution approach has been also applied. It is observed that top management support and commitment, strategic planning and implementation, continuous upgradation of maintenance system to reduce manufacturing lead time and cost are major factors to ensure the sustainable competitive advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nitrogen is an essential element for sugarcane growth and development and is generally applied in the form of urea often much more than at recommended rates, causing serious soil degradation, particularly soil acidification, as well as groundwater and air pollution. In spite of the importance of nitrogen for plant growth, fewer reports are available to understand the application and biological role of N2 fixing bacteria to improve N2 nutrition in the sugarcane plant. Results: In this study, a total of 350 different bacterial strains were isolated from rhizospheric soil samples of the sugarcane plants. Out of these, 22 isolates were selected based on plant growth promotion traits, biocontrol, and nitrogenase activity. The presence and activity of the nifH gene and the ability of nitrogen-fixation proved that all 22 selected strains have the ability to fix nitrogen. These strains were used to perform 16S rRNA and rpoB genes for their identification. The resulted amplicons were sequenced and phylogenetic analysis was constructed. Among the screened strains for nitrogen fixation, CY5 (Bacillus megaterium) and CA1 (Bacillus mycoides) were the most prominent. These two strains were examined for functional diversity using Biolog phenotyping, which confirmed the consumption of diverse carbon and nitrogen sources and tolerance to low pH and osmotic stress. The inoculated bacterial strains colonized the sugarcane rhizosphere successfully and were mostly located in root and leaf. The expression of the nifH gene in both sugarcane varieties (GT11 and GXB9) inoculated with CY5 and CA1 was confirmed. The gene expression studies showed enhanced expression of genes of various enzymes such as catalase, phenylalanine-ammonia-lyase, superoxide dismutase, chitinase and glucanase in bacterial-inoculated sugarcane plants. Conclusion: The results showed that a substantial number of Bacillus isolates have N-fixation and biocontrol property against two sugarcane pathogens Sporisorium scitamineum and Ceratocystis paradoxa. The increased activity of genes controlling free radical metabolism may at least in part accounts for the increased tolerance to pathogens. Nitrogen-fixation was confirmed in sugarcane inoculated with B. megaterium and B. mycoides strains using N-balance and 15N2 isotope dilution in different plant parts of sugarcane. This is the first report of Bacillus mycoides as a nitrogen-fixing rhizobacterium in sugarcane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma has been employed on Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli BL21. Treatment was carried out using plasma generated with different compositions of gases: CH4/N2 (1:2), O2, N2/O2 (1:1), N2, and Ar, and by varying plasma power and treatment time. E. coli cells were exposed under the DBD plasma in triplicates, and their surviving numbers were observed in terms of colony forming units. It has been observed that the CH4/N2 plasma exhibits relatively higher sterilization property toward E. coli compared to plasma generated by using O2, N2/O2, N2, and Ar gas mixtures. The time to kill up to 90% of the initial population of the E. coli cells was found to be about 2–3 min for CH4/N2 and O2 gas mixture DBD plasma. A prolongation of treatment time and an increase in the dissipated power significantly improved the E. coli killing efficiency of the atmospheric pressure DBD plasma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study presents a novel typology of logistics triads. • The impact of triad resources on firm performance depends on the triad structure type. • Symmetric triads outperform other triads in operational performance. • Asymmetric triads have a positive impact on financial performance. Logistics triads are an emerging research setting, yet there is little theoretical and empirical understanding of how triad structure impacts triad resources and buying firm performance relationship. This study first develops a typology of triad structure (asymmetric, balanced, symmetric triads). Based on the theories of the resource-based view of the firm, balance theory, and equity theory, this study empirically investigates how each triad structure impacts the triad resources-firm performance relationship. It uses three firm performance metrics: financial, operational, and market. It also tests whether environmental complexity and uncertainty affect the triad structure. The study collected empirical data via a survey of 267 matched supplier-3PL pairs for the same buying firms in three countries: the UK, France, and Greece. Group hierarchical regression models analysed the effects of each triad structure on the triad resources-firm performance relationship. Findings show that each triad structure has different effects on buying firm performance. Symmetric triads outperform other triads in operational performance. Asymmetric triads have a positive impact on financial performance. Findings also uncover significant differences among triadic resources. The study presents several novelties resulting in important theoretical and managerial implications, including exposing theoretical contradictions about the role of triad structure on firm performance and integrating the three theories to understand the links between resources-structure-performance. This study's findings indicate that all firms in a triad can strategise their resources to yield market, financial, and operational benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Asthma and allergic rhinitis are considered manifestations of the chronic inflammatory respiratory syndrome of the common airways or united airways disease. We conducted a prospective epidemiological study to evaluate the prevalence of allergic rhinitis among children already diagnosed as having asthma. Methods: A prospective epidemiological study was carried out during 2015 to 2016 at a tertiary care centre in North India. The severity of asthma was classified according to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) report & allergic rhinitis according to Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma (ARIA). Results: A total of 64 children were screened. After excluding five subjects (7.8%), 59 subjects with asthma were analysed. We could not find any definitive correlation between severity of asthma to severity of allergic rhinitis (p > 0.05). The prevalence of co morbidity of asthma and allergic rhinitis was maximum when onset of asthma was between three to six years (70%), was 40% for < three years and 50% when age of onset was six to nine years. The age of onset of asthma in children having asthma only was five years and that of children with both asthma and allergic rhinitis was 5.5 years. This difference was not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of co morbidity (50.84%) of allergic rhinitis among patients with asthma. A positive correlation was found between duration and severity of asthma, but this was not observed for allergic rhinitis. In most cases asthma preceded or started with AR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early case finding and prompt initiation of treatment of pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) is the most effective strategy to achieve successful TB control. In order to achieve early initiation of treatment, the Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP) since its launch in 1997 has been using advocacy, communication and social mobilization (ACSM) strategy targeted at health care providers (HCP) and other stake holders by large scale utilization of electronic and print media. Objective: To study whether RNTCP is really achieving early initiation of TB treatment among infectious PTB patients. Methods: A cross- sectional study among new smear positive PTB patients at Haldwani block of Nainital district of Uttarakhand State of North India. Data was analyzed using the software Epi Info version 7.2.0.1. Results: Of the 85 infectious PTB patients included in the study, the median time consumed between onset of cough and contact with the first HCP, between first HCP contact to confirmation of diagnosis, and between confirmation of diagnosis to initiation of treatment were 6 days, 43 days and 6 days respectively. Overall, median time consumed between onset of cough to initiation of treatment was 61 days. HCPs working in the public health settings fared no better than those in the private health sector in this regard. Conclusions: Although majority patients sought medical care timely, a considerably unacceptable long time was consumed by HCPs in initiation of treatment of PTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In perennial plants, seasonal shifts provide cues that control adaptive growth patterns of the shoot apex. However, where these seasonal cues are sensed and communicated to the shoot apex remains unknown. We demonstrate that systemic signals from leaves play key roles in seasonal control of shoot growth in model tree hybrid aspen. Grafting experiments reveal that the tree ortholog of Arabidopsis flowering time regulator FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) and the plant hormone gibberellic acid (GA) systemically convey seasonal cues to the shoot apex. GA (unlike FT) also acts locally in shoot apex, downstream of FT in seasonal growth control. At the shoot apex, antagonistic factors--LAP1, a target of FT and the FT antagonist TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (TFL1)--act locally to promote and suppress seasonal growth, respectively. These data reveal seasonal changes perceived in leaves that are communicated to the shoot apex by systemic signals that, in concert with locally acting components, control adaptive growth patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Micro-encapsulated carbon dioxide sorbent (MECS) is considered as a promising material for carbon capture system because of high capture rate, low fabrication cost, and efficient energy consumption. To accelerate the development of MECS technology for industrial deployment, device-scale computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed to study hydrodynamics and CO 2 absorption behavior in a conceptual fluidized bed reactor. The two-fluid model solver, built in the Multiphase Flow with Interphase eXchanges (MFIX), is adopted to solve the multiphase flow hydrodynamics by representing both fluid and solids as continuous phases. Filtered models are implemented to capture the sub-grid effects that normally cannot be directly considered because MECS particles are too small to be explicitly resolved at such a large scale. Using established CFD tools, this study aims to characterize MECS behavior and predict its carbon capture performance in a conceptual device-scale absorber. The MECS particle size and gas flow rate have significant impact on CO 2 capture efficiency. The CO 2 capture efficiency decreases with increasing gas flow rate. Smaller MECS particles lead to better CO 2 absorption and gas-solid homogeneity. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image CO 2 capture fraction versus gas flow rate for MECS of size 120 μm (black line) and 480 μm (red line) in a 1-MW pilot-scale carbon capture absorber. Highlights • Characterize micro-encapsulated carbon dioxide sorbent (MECS) hydrodynamics and chemical absorption behavior • Predict MECS carbon capture performance in a conceptual device-scale absorber • Impact of MECS particle size and gas flow rate on CO2 capture efficiency is extensively explored. • The findings from this study can serve as guidance for improving and optimizing industrial-scale carbon capture absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel reconfigurable microstrip-fed patch antenna with polarization agility in either of two bands is proposed in this communication. Frequency reconfigurability is achieved by connecting an additional small patch to the main patch through a p-i-n diode. Each corner is cutoff from the main patch through a narrow L-shaped cut to get polarization reconfigurability. In addition, the impedance and axial ratio bandwidths are enhanced by using the proximity-coupled feed. Both prototypes are designed, fabricated, and tested. The measured results agree well with the simulated results in all cases. Also, the proposed microstrip-fed antenna is tested at high RF input power. The proposed structures are simple, low profile, low cost, and have simple bias circuitry. The proposed antennas are capable of operating in three polarization states, i.e., left-hand circular polarization, linear polarization, and right-hand circular polarization in two frequency bands. The proposed structures are best suited for modern advanced wireless communication systems such as LTE and 5G. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-based approaches for graphene synthesis, reduction, modification, cutting and micro-patterning have been developed and applied to the fabrication of various electronic devices. These laser-based techniques exhibit several advantages over alternative methods: low temperature, shorter reaction times, environmentally friendly, energy saving, catalyst free growth on insulating substrates, high productivity, better reproducibility, scalability, excellent control over experimental parameters. Given the importance of the subject, in the last few years a remarkable increase in the number of scientific articles has occurred in this area. Direct fabrication of graphene patterns for micro-supercapacitors, flexible electrodes, field-effect-transistors, and sensors are some of the examples. Direct laser writing enables local graphene synthesis and fabrication of graphene patterns on graphene oxide films. It can be used to achieve band gap modulation, removal of surface functionalities, conductivity enhancement, exfoliation and porous structure formation. The aim of this review is to collect some of the most relevant research efforts published on this important topic, with emphasis in the articles published in the last few years. After an introduction highlighting the main factors affecting the outcome of laser-materials interactions, devices built using direct laser writing (DLW) on graphene oxide/graphene films and the experimental conditions used for their fabrication are summarized. Some of the expected directions for promising future research in this area are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel 2,5-dimethyl-4-(aryl or hetero aryl) substituted aniline-1,3-oxazole derivatives have been synthesized by the Buchwald coupling reaction of 4-(4-bromophenyl)-2,5-dimethyloxazole [obtained by the bromination reaction of p-bromo phenyl ethanone and further cyclisation reaction with acetamide under microwave] with substituted aryl or hetero aryl amine in presence of Tris (dibenzylidene acetone)dipalladium (0), BINAP and cesium carbonate in toluene. These were screened for in-vitro antimicrobial activity against two gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) and two gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) as well as for antifungal and antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strain. Compound 3(d) and 3(g) exhibited good antimicrobial and antimalarial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents511I.511II.512III.513IV.513V.517VI.517VII.521VIII.521Acknowledgements521References521 Summary: Trees growing in boreal and temperate regions synchronize their growth with seasonal climatic changes in adaptive responses that are essential for their survival. These trees cease growth before the winter and establish a dormant state during which growth cessation is maintained by repression of responses to growth‐promotive signals. Reactivation of growth in the spring follows the release from dormancy promoted by prolonged exposure to low temperature during the winter. The timing of the key events and regulation of the molecular programs associated with the key stages of the annual growth cycle are controlled by two main environmental cues: photoperiod and temperature. Recently, key components mediating photoperiodic control of growth cessation and bud set have been identified, and striking similarities have been observed in signaling pathways controlling growth cessation in trees and floral transition in Arabidopsis. Although less well understood, the regulation of bud dormancy and bud burst may involve cell–cell communication and chromatin remodeling. Here, we discuss current knowledge of the molecular‐level regulation of the annual growth cycle of woody trees in temperate and boreal regions, and identify key questions that need to be addressed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel 2,5-dimethyl-4-substituted biphenyl-1,3-oxazole derivatives have been synthesized by the suzuki reaction of 4-(4-bromophenyl)-2,5-dimethyloxazole [obtained by the bromination reaction of p-bromo phenyl ethanone and further cyclisation reaction with acetamide under microwave] with substituted phenylboronic acid in presence of bis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(ii) chloride and potassium carbonate in dimethyl formamide. These were screened for in-vitro antimicrobial activity against two gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) and two gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) as well as for antifungal and antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strain. Compound 3(c) and 3(i) exhibited good antimicrobial and antimalarial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave heating reaction time dependent various graphene oxide based zinc oxide (G-ZnO) heterostructures such as graphene oxide-ZnO microcubes (GZMC), graphene oxide-ZnO nanoflakes (GZNF) and graphene oxide-ZnO nanoneedles (GZNN) are synthesized by simple and cost effective microwave assisted exfoliation method. These heterostructures supported on graphene oxide nanosheets (GNSs) represent three dimensional (3D) ZnO microcubes and various confined two dimensional (2D) nanoflakes and one dimensional (1D) ZnO nanoneedles like structures. The recorded PL intensity variations show the strong evidence of the interfaces interaction between graphene oxide and ZnO heterostructures. However the differences in the PL intensities are also caused by the 3D and various confined G-ZnO heterostructures. The photoluminescence characterization of GZMC, GZNF and GZNN nanostructures exhibit a decrement in the PL intensity. The PL intensity of the GZNN is lowered by 67.50% and 39.7%to the GZMC and GZNF nanostructures respectively. The results show that ZnO heterostructures grown on GNSs with different morphologies and dimensionalities exhibit the variation in PL intensity due to preventing a direct recombination of the electrons and holes in ZnO. A tentative growth mechanism has been given for the growth of various graphene based zinc oxide heterostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on demyelinating diseases of the CNS and classified patients into multiple sclerosis (MS). Topics include central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune and demyelinating diseases known to be associated with systemic autoimmune diseases; and MS patients having an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, thyroid diseases, ankylosing spondylitis, dermatomyositis.

• Countercurrent gas–liquid flows in additive-manufactured column with TPMS packing. • Water-lean solvent used in simulations to predict effective area and liquid holdup. • Flooding, dry and wet pressure drop predictions in the packed column. Computational investigation of the countercurrent flows in an additive-manufactured (AM) column packed with triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) is challenging. Multiphase flow simulations using the volume of fluid (VOF) method can explain the column's hydrodynamic characteristics, including interfacial area, liquid holdup, pressure drop, flow regime, etc. The interfacial area is a key factor dictating the mass transfer via the absorption process, and thereby the overall efficiency of the column. The impacts of a solvent's physical properties, liquid and gas loads, and contact angle on the hydrodynamics are extensively explored. The solvents include traditional solvent (monoethanolamine [MEA]) used in industry as well as water-lean solvent (EEMPA) as a prospective solvents for carbon capture. As expected, interfacial area and liquid holdup increase with increasing liquid loads (q L). The EEMPA exhibits higher values for the interfacial area and liquid holdup compared to those for the MEA. The dry and wet pressure drops per unit length in the column at different gas loads (F G) are calculated and further compared with the empirical correlations for traditional packings. At low gas loads, i.e., in the preloading regime, the predicted values of the wet and dry pressure drops match well with the corresponding values calculated from available correlations. The gas load has a marginal impact on the interfacial area at its lower value, but the higher value of F G (> 2.18 Pa) causes flooding in the column. The effect of varying contact angles on the interfacial area and liquid holdup in the preloading regime is also studied. Both interfacial area and liquid holdup decrease with the increase in the value of the contact angle. Overall, the effect of the contact angle on the interfacial area is more pronounced than other parameters influencing the interfacial area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to exfoliate 2D hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (h-BNNSs) into nano-sized layered particles to form the boron nitride quantum dots (BNQDs) has been discussed by mechanical pressure through high intensity sonication. The top-down, simple and efficient synthesis approach has been applied for synthesis of BNQDs directly from bulk h-BN powder by high intensity sonication processes. The time dependent high intensity sonication shows the thinning of BNNSs or delaminated BNNSs are broken into nano-size in form of BNQDs. Higher ultrasonication time duration reduce the number of h-BN layers from h-BNNSs and produce the physical defects on the surface and finally transform into BNQDs. To evaluate the structural analysis and properties of BNQDs were employed by XRD, HRTEM, EDX, XPS, AFM and PL techniques. The average and uniform size of BNQDs observed from TEM analysis were 3–6 nm and containing an average thickness of 3–12 atomic BN layers. Raman spectroscopy confirms the formation of few layered BNQDs nanostructure from bulk h-BN powder by indicating the weak and small E 2g phonon mode (1365 cm −1 ). The photoluminescence (PL) measurements carried out of BNQDs show typical luminescence spectra and strong peak emission at 448 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some 2-aryl(or hetero aryl)-4,6-bis (trifluoromethyl) -2H -pyrazolo [3,4-b]pyridin-3-amine derivatives have been synthesized by the reaction of substituted aryl or hetero aryl hydrazine with 2-chloro-4,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)nicotinonitrile [obtained by the reaction of 1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoropentane-2,4-dione with malonamide followed by reaction with phosphorous oxychloroide] in presence of triethyl amine in ethanol. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR and LCMS. These were screened for in-vitro antimicrobial activity against two gram positive (Streptococcus Pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) and two gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) as well as for antifungal and antimalarial activity against plasmodium falciparum strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some new 5-substituted aryl (or heteroaryl)-2-methyl-4-phenyloxazole derivatives have been synthesized by the suzuki reaction of 5-bromo-2-methyl-4-phenyloxazole [obtained by the bromination of 2-methyl-4-phenyloxazole, which is obtained by the cyclization of 2-bromo-1-phenylethanone with acetamide under microwave] with substituted aryl(or heteroaryl) boronic acid. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, NMR(¹H &13C) and MS. These were screened for in-vitro antimicrobial activity against two gram positive (Streptococcus Pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) and two gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) as well as for antifungal and antimalarial activity against plasmodium falciparum strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanomaterials have huge potential in the field of energy and environmental applications. However, a wide range of greener and environment friendly synthesis methods utilizing natural, renewable, cheaper waste materials has to be developed. This will lead to the reduction of green house gases, exploitation of toxic materials and helps in the development of sustainable technologies. In this review, the details progress made in the last ten years concerning the synthesis of new one dimensional (carbon nanotubes CNT, carbon nanofiber) and two dimensional (graphene) carbon based materials using natural precursors and waste materials is summarized. The aim of this review paper is to provide a comprehensive scientific progress of synthesis of graphene and carbon nanotubes using natural precursor and waste materials for the future perspective. This paper also concludes with a brief discussion on the impact of natural precursor for the graphene and CNTs for environment, its toxicological effects and its future prospects in this rapidly emerging field. Natural precursors and waste carbon containing products are emerging as a new class of materials that have efficiency to produce graphene and CNTs. The various synthesis processes of graphene, CNTs and carbon dots has been reported using several natural hydrocarbon precursors (turpentine oil, eucalyptus oil, palm oil, neem oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, biodiesel, tea-tree extract, honey, milk, sugar, butter, egg etc.). Also, some research groups have used foods wastes (cookie and chocolate), vegetation wastes (woods, leaf, grass, fruit wastes), animal/bird/insect wastes (bone and cow dung, dog feces, chicken feather) and agro waste (sugarcane bagasse) for the synthesis of graphene and CNTs. Research on natural hydrocarbon precursors and wastage materials has increased in recent years as they promise to produce better and high quality of graphene and CNTs in large quantities. The fascinating aspect of this research area is that it guides the use of natural hydrocarbons to explore the possibilities of improving graphene stability and robustness suitable for different type of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple spray pyrolysis-assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method is employed for the growth of aligned-stack of branched nitrogen doped carbon nanotubes (bN-CNTs) using less cost effective sesame oil as natural hydrocarbon precursor. The acetonitrile (CH 3 CN) and ferrocene (C 10 H 10 Fe) are used for the N-doping and catalyst, respectively for the growth of nitrogen doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNTs) in aligned form. The Ar gas is passed through liquid thiophene (C 4 H 4 S) which is responsible for the branching in aligned-stacked bN-CNTs structure. The aligned-stacked bN-CNTs have been grown inside the quartz tube and no additional substrate has been used. The inner wall of quartz tubes contains black thick flake type deposition which contains aligned-stacked bN-CNT. The deposited flakes products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy. A suitable mechanism is elucidated for the growth of aligned-stacked bN-CNT. We have found that the initial primary growth of N-CNTs show the base growth, however secondary bN-CNTs show nearly similar diameter and follows tip growth mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – In present context of globalization, maintenance of production systems is very important. Many of the organizations are facing a lot of problems in maintenance management. Therefore the purpose of this paper is to identify the main barriers in maintenance management and to rank them for effective maintenance strategies. Design/methodology/approach – To rank the main barriers in maintenance management, technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution is used. For giving score to different factors a team of three experts was made. All experts were having more than ten years of experience in area of maintenance management. Findings – Lack of top management support, lack of measurement of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and lack of strategic planning and implementation have emerged as top three barriers in implementation of maintenance systems in industries. Research limitations/implications – Findings imply that for successful maintenance, top management should be very supportive for taking different initiatives, training programmes, etc. Organizations should try to improve overall performance of machines known as OEE rather than only machines productivity. Originality/value – These findings will be highly useful for professionals from manufacturing sector in implementing effective maintenance management system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrodynamic interactions between a pair of capsules in simple shear are numerically investigated using a front-tracking finite difference method. The membrane of the capsule is modeled using different hyperelastic constitutive relations. We also compare the pair interactions between drops to those between capsules. An increased viscosity ratio leads to a reduced net cross-stream separation between capsules as well as drops after collision. At low viscosity ratios, for the same capillary number drop-pairs show higher cross-stream separation than those for capsule-pairs, while substantially large viscosity ratios result in almost the same value for both cases. We investigate pair-collisions between two heterogeneous capsules C1 and C2 with two different capillary numbers. The maximum deformation of C1 was seen to increase with increasing stiffness (decreasing capillary number) of C2, even though the stiffness of C1 was kept fixed. The findings are similar for a drop-pair, however, with a smaller maximum deformation for the same combinations of capillary numbers. The final cross-stream drift of the trajectory of C1 decreases with the increasing stiffness of C2, but the relative trajectory between the capsules remains unchanged. The maximum deformation and the cross-stream drift of the trajectory of C1 are shown to approximately vary with power-law functions of the ratio of the capillary numbers of C1 and C2. An analytical explanation of the dependence on the two capillary numbers is offered. Different membrane constitutive laws result in similar deformation and drift in trajectory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The circadian rhythm, as part of a broad time structure (chronome) of lipid peroxides and antioxidant defense mechanisms may relate to prevention, efficacy and management of preventive and curative chronotherapy. Methods Fifty newly diagnosed patients with peptic ulcers, 30–45 years of age, and 60 age-matched clinically healthy volunteers were synchronized for one week with diurnal activity from about 06:00 to about 22:00 and nocturnal rest. Breakfast was served around 08:30, lunch around 13:30 and dinner around 20:30. Drugs known to affect the free-radical systems were not taken. Blood samples were collected at 6-hour intervals for 24 h under standardized, presumably 24-hour synchronized conditions. Plasma lipid peroxides, in the form of malondialdehyde (MDA), blood superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxide (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT) activities, and serum total protein, albumin, ascorbic acid, total serum cholesterol, and HDL-cholesterol concentrations were determined. Results By population-mean cosinor analysis, a marked circadian variation was demonstrated for all variables in healthy subjects and in ulcer patients (p < 0.001). As compared to controls, patients had a lower MESOR of MDA, SOD, GPx, GR, ascorbic acid, and HDL-C. They also had smaller circadian amplitude of SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, ascorbic acid, T-C, and HDL-C, but larger circadian amplitude of MDA and albumin. As compared to healthy subjects, the circadian acrophase of ulcer patients occurred later for MDA and GR and earlier for GPx. Conclusion Mapping circadian rhythms, important chronome components that include trends with age and extra-circadian components characterizing antioxidants and pro-oxidants, is needed for exploring their putative role as markers in the treatment and management of peptic ulcers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]