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Abstract This study presents a novel printed antenna design that operates at the millimeter-wave frequencies of 28 and 34 GHz, which are crucial for the current and upcoming mobile communication generations. The radiating component in the antenna is a slot-etched rectangular ring that is fed through a stepped impedance microstrip line feed. Using advanced machine learning techniques, the design parameters of the suggested antenna have been fine-tuned to ensure optimal impedance matching at 28 GHz within the frequency range of 27.61–28.49 GHz. Additionally, the antenna also provides excellent impedance matching at 34.5 GHz within the frequency range of 33.61–34.27 GHz. Using the designated antenna, a Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) system with two ports is constructed. The MIMO system’s performance is evaluated by analyzing channel capacity loss (CCL), diversity gain (DG), and envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), which showcases outstanding outcomes. The study further explores the optimization of a antenna’s structure using a Taguchi-based Neural Network (Taguchi NN) approach to predict the reflection coefficient (|S11|) across a frequency range of 27–35 GHz. By systematically varying the gap width (∆w) and shift (∆t), a dataset was generated and used to train the network. The optimal model configuration achieved a validation Mean Square Error (MSE) of 2.244 and an R² of 0.848 enabling reliable prediction of the reflection coefficient (|S11|) without extensive simulations. The findings further highlight the construction and experimental assessment of a single-element antenna and MIMO system, which exhibit excellent impedance matching across both lower and higher frequency bands. The antenna displays a maximum gain of 8.75 and 5.5 dBi at frequencies of 28 and 34 GHz, respectively. The recommended antenna exhibits excellent radiation efficiency across both lower and higher frequency bands, with rates of 98.46% and 99.17%, respectively. In addition, the experimental measurements of the coupling coefficients between the MIMO antenna systems indicate extremely low coupling values. This results in an efficient MIMO system that is well-suited for future millimeter-wave (mm-wave) applications.

Abstract Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is an emerging maternal health problem with increasing incidences. The lack of complete understanding of its pathophysiological mechanisms and novel regulatory biomarkers makes early diagnosis difficult. High-throughput RNA sequencing and computational bioinformatics analyses were conducted to identify novel hub genes, and their regulatory mechanisms were validated through qRT-PCR, western blot, and siRNA-mediated knockdown studies. Intermediate metabolites and circulatory levels of amino acids in the serum of GDM patients and healthy controls were measured. Transcriptomic studies identified SNW1 as the most sensitive and specific biomarker, significantly up-regulated in GDM (fold change = 1.09; p

Abstract This study focused on simulating the adsorption-based separation of Methylene Blue (MB) dye utilising Oryza sativa straw biomass (OSSB). Three distinct modelling approaches were employed: artificial neural networks (ANN), adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS), and response surface methodology (RSM). To evaluate the adsorbent’s potential, assessments were conducted using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The evaluation of RSM, ANN, and ANFIS included the quantification of R2, mean squared error (MSE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE) metrics. The regression coefficients from the process modelling demonstrated that RSM (R2 = 0.9216), ANN (R2 = 0.8864), and ANFIS (R2 = 0.9589) all accurately predicted MB adsorptive removal. However, comparative statistical analysis revealed that the ANFIS model exhibited superior accuracy in data-based predictions compared to ANN and RSM models. The ideal pH for MB adsorption utilizing OSSB was established as 7. Additionally, favourable outcomes were obtained with 60-minute contact durations, 20 mg adsorbent quantities, and temperatures of 30 °C. The pseudo 2nd -order kinetic model for MB adsorption by OSSB was confirmed. The equilibrium data exhibited a superior fit with the Langmuir isotherm model in comparison to the Freundlich model. The thermodynamic adsorption parameters, including (∆G = -9.1489 kJ/mol), enthalpy change (∆H = -1457.2 kJ/mol), and entropy change (∆S = -19.03 J mol−1 K−1) indicated that the adsorption of MB onto the OSSB surface is exothermic and spontaneous under the experimental conditions. This research effectively showcased the potential of RSM, ANN, and ANFIS in simulating dye removal using OSSB. The generated parameter data proved valuable for the design and control of the adsorption process.

Abstract In this communication, the concept of metasurface absorber is utilized to enhance the isolation in the dual port multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna specially designed for a wideband millimeter wave operation. The frequency of operation of the designed module is 32.5–42.5 GHz with sufficient gain attributes. The designed metasurface array consists of two circular rings on two different layers. The concept of deep learning is utilized to optimize the dimensional configuration of the metasurface to achieve the maximum absorption of electromagnetic waves in the band of interest. The suppression of mutual coupling by double-ring metasurface is analyzed with the help of the wave theory concept. In contrast to previous decoupling methods using metasurfaces, the suggested metasurface is intended to be in the same plane as the array. The findings demonstrate the capability of effectively separating antenna elements in wideband MIMO antenna without compromising the geometrical complexity. Diversity metrics such as envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), mean effective gain (MEG), channel capacity loss (CCL), and total active reflection coefficient (TARC) for the proposed frequency range are also used to evaluate the performance of the constructed MIMO antenna. The wideband characteristics with a compact configuration make the design MIMO module a suitable candidate for mm-wave applications. The congruence between simulation and measurement confirms the validity of the suggested design.

Abstract Maize is one of the important cereal crops grown in rainfed regions of northwestern Himalayas, however, persistent use of chemical fertilizers coupled with poor soil nutrients and water holding capacity due to coarse textured soils poses serious threat to sustaining maize yield and soil health. To address these bottlenecks, a long-term experiment with application of organic manures and mineral fertilizer provides insights to quantify changes in soil organic carbon (SOC), crop yield and rain water use efficiency (RWUE) in rainfed area having low water use efficiency. A twelve years field experiment was conducted under dry sub-humid Inceptisols in northern India to study the potential impacts of organic and mineral fertilization on maize (Zea mays L.) productivity, water use efficiency and soil quality. Ten treatments were assessed, involving different nitrogen levels (20, 30, and 40 kg N ha⁻¹) combined with 10 tha⁻¹ year⁻¹ of farmyard manure (FYM), in-situ green manure from sunhemp, and the incorporation of Leucaena leucocephala leaves at 5 tha⁻¹ year⁻¹, including an unfertilized control. Maize yield increased linearly with increasing nitrogen application rates. The combination of FYM @ 10t ha−1 and 40 kg N ha−1(T4) yielded the highest maize production. Manure addition improved soil organic carbon (SOC) and major soil nutrients (N, P and K) while unfertilized control showed decline in soil nutrients compared to their initial values. Compared with control, incorporation of 10 t ha−1 FYM increased SOC by 1.3, 1.41, 1.44 times at application rate of 20, 30, 40 kg N ha−1, respectively. Application of N@40 kg ha−1 + 10t FYM ha−1 showed highest rain water use efficiency (RWUE) and relative production efficiency index (RPEI) (2.74 kg ha−1 mm−1 and 82, respectively) and the lowest rank sum of 6. Highly significant positive relationship existed between RPEI and RWUE, RPEI and sustainability yield index (SYI), RWUE and SYI indicated the superiority of FYM in combination with mineral fertilizer. Regression models, correlating yield with monthly rainfall and crop growing periods, indicated that the integration of FYM (10 tha⁻¹) with 40 kg N ha⁻¹ was most effective in achieving the highest relative soil quality index (RSQI) of 76 and the greatest sustainability yield index (SYI) of 49.3%. Based on results, we recommend balanced fertilization (N@40 kg ha−1 +10t FYM ha−1) which is easily manageable by farmers as the optimal strategy for improving soil quality and achieving sustainable maize productivity in nutrient depleted Inceptisols of northern India.

Abstract A cutting-edge antenna system has been developed for new radio (NR) millimeter wave operating from 36.0 to 40.0 GHz frequency range 2 (FR 2) n260 band applications. This innovative system incorporates metasurface-inspired printed dual-port MIMO technology, which includes LP to CP conversion features. The positional orientation of the elements of the MIMO antenna with stacked metasurface provoked the spatial diversity. To convert linearly polarised (LP) waves to circularly polarised (CP) waves, the metasurface layer is suspended above the MIMO antenna. LP to CP polarisation conversion occurs when the conducting strip and rectangular space between strips on the substrate generate π/2 phase-shifted electric field components (Ex and Ey). The proposed stepped impedance-fed antenna elements and metasurface are fabricated on commercially available high-frequency laminates using a double-layer printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication facility. The test findings exhibit a satisfactory level of concurrence with the calculated/measured findings regarding scattering parameters, diversity performance parameters, and realized gain. The result is a highly efficient and versatile antenna system that is ideal for advanced engineering applications.

Abstract Maize cultivation is under the growing threat of charcoal rot (Macrophomina phaseolina). Chemical control of diseases imparts serious health hazards to humans and the ecosystem. Biochar as an alternative disease management approach has been under consideration of the researchers for some time now. The biochar utilized in this study was derived from maize stalks and cobs. Crystallographic structure, inorganic minerals content and size of maize biochar were analyzed by powder X-ray diffractometer, while scanning electron microscopy revealed rough, irregular, tubular structure of the biochar surface. EDX spectra revealed that the maize biochar composition was dominated by ‘C’ followed by ‘O’. The current study was designed to determine the synergistic effect of maize biochar (MB), and biocontrol agent (BCA) Trichoderma viride as soil amendments on the suppression of M. phaseolina. In vitro bioassays were conducted to check the efficiency of antagonistic effect of Trichoderma spp., in combination with maize biochar. On the basis of maximum mycelial growth inhibition T. viride was selected for a glasshouse experiment. Maize plants were grown in pots containing a mixture of soil with MB at application at the rate of 3 and 6% (v/v) separately, associated with or without T. viride. Treatments amended with 3% MB inoculated with M. phaseolina significantly reduced the percentage disease severity index by 40%. While in the presence of T. viride, 3% MB showed maximum disease suppression and a minimum percentage severity index i.e. 60 and 20%, respectively. Highest nitrogen contents were 18.4 g kg−1 observed in treatment 6% MB, while highest phosphorus and potassium contents were 3.11 and 15.2 g kg−1, respectively in the treatment with 3% MB. Conclusively, the effect of variable concentrations of maize biochar and T. viride as soil amendment was evident on the development of charcoal rot, growth and physiology of maize plants. According to the available literature, our report is the first on the implementation of biochar in synergism with T. viride to suppress the charcoal rot in maize.

Abstract Nanotechnology appears to be a promising tool to redefine crop nutrition in the coming decades. However, the crucial interactions of nanomaterials with abiotic components of the environment like soil organic matter (SOM) and carbon‒sequestration may hold the key to sustainable crop nutrition, fortification, and climate change. Here, we investigated the use of sugar press mud (PM) mediated ZnO nanosynthesis for soil amendment and nutrient mobilisation under moderately alkaline conditions. The positively charged (+ 7.61 mv) ZnO sheet-like nanoparticles (~ 17 nm) from zinc sulphate at the optimum dose of (75 mg/kg blended with PM (1.4% w/w) were used in reinforcing the soil matrix for wheat growth. The results demonstrated improved agronomic parameters with (~ 24%) and (~ 19%) relative increases in yield and plant Zn content. Also, the soil solution phase interactions of the ZnO nanoparticles with the PM-induced soil colloidal carbon (− 27.9 mv and diameter 0.4864 μm) along with its other components have influenced the soil nutrient dynamics and mineral ecology at large. Interestingly, one such interaction seems to have reversed the known Zn-P interaction from negative to positive. Thus, the study offers a fresh insight into the possible correlations between nutrient interactions and soil carbon sequestration for climate-resilient crop productivity.

Abstract In this manuscript, a heterostructure-based topological nanophotonic structure is proposed for improved sensing performance. The topological effect is realized by connecting two dissimilar one-dimensional photonic crystal structures having overlapped photonic bandgaps. The structural parameters are optimized to regulate and alter the dispersion characteristics, which results in the opposite Zak phases. This demonstrates a robust topologsical interface state excitation at a 1737 nm operating wavelength. Further, a topological cavity structure having resonance mode at 1659 nm is formed by replacing the interface layers with a defect layer. The mode excitation is confirmed by analyzing the electric field confinement at the interface. The sensing capability of the structure is analytically evaluated by infiltrating different analytes within the cavity. The analytical results demonstrate the device’s average sensitivity of around 774 nm/Refractive index unit (RIU) along with an average high Q-factor and figure of merit of around 5.2 × 104 and 2.6234 × 104 RIU−1, respectively. Because of the higher interface mode field confinement, the proposed structure exhibits a 92% higher sensitivity, 98% improved Quality factor, 206% improvement in figure of merit, and 86% higher interface field confinement than conventional Fabry–Perot resonator structures. Thus, the proposed topological cavity structure shows its broad sensing ability (Refractive Index: 1.3–1.6) along with a low-cost, simple fabrication and characterization process, promoting the development of highly sensitive planner nanophotonic devices.

Abstract Continental deformation is known to be controlled by the interplay between tectonic and gravitational forces modulated by thermal relaxation-controlled lithospheric strength leading to oscillations around an equilibrium state, or to runaway extension. Using data-driven thermomechanical modelling of the Alpine Himalayan Collision Zone, we demonstrate how deviations from an equilibrium between mantle dynamics, plate-boundary forces, and the thermochemical configuration of the lithosphere control continental deformation. We quantify such balance between the internal energy of the plate and tectonic forces in terms of a critical crustal thickness, that match the global average of present-day continental crust. It follows that thicker intraplate domains than the critical crust (orogens) must undergo weakening due to their increased internal energy, and, in doing so, they dissipate the acquired energy within a diffused zone of deformation, unlike the localized deformation seen along plate boundaries. This evolution is controlled by a dissipative thermodynamic feedback loop between thermal and mechanical relaxation of the driving energy in the orogenic lithosphere. Exponentially growing energy states, leading to runaway extension are efficiently dampened by enhanced dissipation from radioactive heat sources. This ultimately drives orogens with their thickened radiogenic crust towards a final equilibrium state. Our results suggest a genetic link between the thermochemical state of the crust and the tectonic evolution of silicate Earth-like planets.

Abstract Ammonia and arsenic pollution, along with the impact of climate change, represent critical factors influencing both the quantity and quality of aquaculture production. Recent developments have underscored the significance of these issues, as they not only disrupt aquatic ecosystems but also have far reaching consequences for human health. To addressed above challenges, an experiment was conducted to delineate the potential of manganese nanoparticles (Mn-NPs) to mitigate arsenic and ammonia pollution as well as high temperature stress in Pangasianodon hypophthalmus. The fish were exposed to different combination of arsenic and ammonia pollution as well as high temperature stress, while simultaneously incorporating diets enriched with Mn-NPs. The inclusion of Mn-NPs at 3 mg kg−1 in the diet led to a noteworthy downregulation of cortisol and HSP 70 gene expression, indicating their potential in mitigating stress responses. Furthermore, immune related gene expressions were markedly altered in response to the stressors but demonstrated improvement with the Mn-NPs diet. Interestingly, the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), caspase (CAS), metallothionine (MT) and cytochrome P450 (CYP450) genes expression were prominently upregulated, signifying a stress response. Whereas, Mn-NPs at 3 mg kg−1 diet was significantly downregulated theses gene expression and reduces the stress. In addition to stress-related genes, we evaluated the growth-related gene expressions such as growth hormone (GH), growth hormone regulator 1 (GHR1 and GHRβ), Insulin like growth factor (IGF1 and IGF2) were significantly upregulated whereas, myostatin and somatostatin were downregulated upon the supplementation of dietary Mn-NPs with or without stressors in fish. The gene expression of DNA damage inducible protein and DNA damage in response to head DNA % and tail DNA % was protected by Mn-NPs diets. Furthermore, Mn-NPs demonstrated a capacity to enhance the detoxification of arsenic in different fish tissues, resulting in reduced bioaccumulation of arsenic in muscle and other tissues. This finding highlights Mn-NPs as a potential solution for addressing bioaccumulation associated risks. Our study aimed to comprehensively examined the role of dietary Mn-NPs in mitigating the multiple stressors using gene regulation mechanisms, with enhancing the productive performance of P. hypophthalmus.

Abstract Microbial pathogens are known for causing great environmental stress, owing to which emerging challenges like lack of eco-friendly remediation measures, development of drug-resistant and mutational microbial strains, etc., warrants novel and green routes as a stepping stone to serve such concerns sustainably. In the present study, palladium (Pd) doped manganese (II, III) oxide (Mn3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using an aqueous Syzygium aromaticum bud (ASAB) extract. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of ASAB extract indicates the presence of polyphenolics such as phenols, alkaloids, and flavonoids that can act as potential capping agents in NPs synthesis, which was later confirmed in FTIR analysis of pure and Pd-doped Mn3O4 NPs. XRD, Raman, and XPS analyses confirmed the Pd doping in Mn3O4 NPs. FESEM and HRTEM study reveals the mixed morphologies dominated by nanocorns appearance. Zeta potential investigation reveals high stability of the synthesized NPs in colloidal solutions. The developed Pd-doped Mn3O4 NPs were tested against two fungal phytopathogens, i.e., Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, known for causing great economic losses in yield and quality of different plant species. The antifungal activity of synthesized Pd‐doped Mn3O4 NPs displayed a dose‐dependent response with a maximum of ~92%, and ~72% inhibition was recorded against S. sclerotiorum and C. gloeosporioides, respectively, at 1000 ppm concentration. However, C. gloeosporioides demonstrated higher sensitivity to Pd‐doped Mn3O4 NPs upto 500 ppm) treatment than S. sclerotiorum. The prepared NPs also showed significant antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis. The Pd-doped Mn3O4 NPs were effective even at low treatment doses, i.e., 50–100 ppm, with the highest Zone of inhibition obtained at 1000 ppm concentration. Our findings provide a novel, eco-benign, and cost-effective approach for formulating a nanomaterial composition offering multifaceted utilities as an effective antimicrobial agent.

Abstract In this communication, a planar dual port multiple input multiple output antenna of size 1.2λ0 × 0.6λ0 × 0.008λ0 with LHCP/RHCP features is reported for the fifth-generation new radio n77/n78 sub-6 GHz wireless applications band. The single unit of the proposed design consists of a modified L-shape rectangular radiator with Z-shape slot loaded DGS. The defected ground structure is optimized through machine learning algorithms to achieve the maximum ARBW (output) by Right Shifting (RS) and left shifting (LS) the DGS and obtaining input features. The performance metric for ANN with ADAM optimizer was found to be optimal with MSE and R2 of 0.99 and 0.82, respectively. ANNs can leverage gradient information to guide the optimization process. This enables faster convergence towards optimal solutions compared to popular GAs and PSO, which are often gradient-free optimization methods. The MIMO configuration is achieved by creating a mirror image of the single unit about the x-axis. The salient features of the proposed design are (a) Impedance bandwidth (IBW) of 3.0–4.2 GHz covering the n77/n78 band, (b) 3-dB axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) of the 2.6–3.9 GHz (c) Port-1 is generating RHCP while Port-2 is generating LHCP, results in polarization diversity. Different diversity performance parameters (ECC

Abstract Damask rose (Rosa damascena Mill.) is a high-value aromatic plant species belonging to the family Rosaceae. It is being cultivated throughout the world for rose essential oil production. Besides its higher demand in the aromatic and cosmetic industry, the essential oil obtained has many pharmacological and cytotoxic activities. The primary concern of growers with the available varieties of damask rose is short flowering duration, low essential oil content and unstable yield. Thus, there is a requirement for developing new stable varieties with higher flower yield and essential oil content. The present study evaluated the variations in the flower yield parameters, essential oil content, and essential oil compounds in different clonal selections of damask rose. These clonal selections have been developed through a half-sib progeny approach from commercially available varieties 'Jwala' and 'Himroz.' The fresh flower yield varied from 629.57 to 965.7 g per plant, while the essential oil content ranged from 0.030–0.045% among the clonal selections. The essential oil profiling via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry revealed significant variations in the essential oil compounds. Acyclic monoterpene alcohols citronellol (20.35–44.75%) and geraniol (15.63–27.76%) were highest, followed by long-chain hydrocarbons, i.e., nonadecane (13.02–28.78%). The clonal selection CSIR-IHBT-RD-04 was unique in terms of the highest citronellol content (44.75%) and citronellol/geraniol (C/G) ratio of 1.93%. This selection has the potential use as a parental line in future genetic improvement programs of damask rose to achieve higher yield and better quality of rose essential oil.

Abstract German chamomile is an important medicinal and aromatic herb known for its blue essential oil. It lacks studies on anthesis, breeding systems and floral development with their impact on the essential oil. Therefore, the study investigated floral development and divided it into six reproductive stages (RS-1 to RS-6). The first four stages (5–6 days long) were identified as the floral enlargement and differentiation, followed by the fifth stage (10 days long) of three anthesis flushes, i.e., anther dehiscence, ray and disc florets' style branches flush. Anther dehiscence started 1–2 days before style branches flushes showed protandry and overlapped later with style branches flushes. Pollen production started from RS-3 and showed maximum viability (89%) at anther dehiscence (RS-5.1). Pollen showed dispersal through the air up to 0.7 m distance. Seed setting in controlled pollination experiments showed that removing disc florets could be successfully used as the emasculation alternate in German chamomile. The maximum essential oil content (0.40%) at the full blossomed floral stage (RS-4 &-5) suggested the right time for capitula harvesting. The findings on reproductive biology and breeding systems would offer several tools and techniques to support future breeding programs for genetic improvement of German chamomile.

Abstract Estimating rock-mechanical, petrophysical properties and pre-production stress state is essential for effective reservoir planning, development, and optimal exploitation. This paper attempts to construct a comprehensive one-dimensional mechanical earth model (1D MEM) of the Mandapeta gas reservoir of Krishna Godavari (KG) basin, India. The methodology comprises a detailed stepwise process from processing and analysis of raw log data, calibration of log-derived dynamic properties with static ones using regression models developed from tested core samples, and final rock mechanical property estimation. Pore pressure profiles have been estimated and calibrated with the Repeat formation tester (RFT) data for every thirty-five wells. Overburden and horizontal stresses have also been evaluated and calibrated using data from the Leak-off Tests (LOT) or Extended Leak-off Tests (XLOT). A menu-driven program is developed using PYTHON code for visualization and on-time revision of 1D MEM. The resulting comprehensive 1D MEM predicts and establishes the rock-mechanical properties, pore pressure, and in-situ stress values of the basin. Besides its use in planning future wells, development of the field, and yielding insight into the various well challenges, it can also be used to develop a 3D MEM of the reservoir.

Abstract In recent years, the usage of portable electroencephalogram (EEG) devices are becoming popular for both clinical and non-clinical applications. In order to provide more comfort to the subject and measure the EEG signals for several hours, these devices usually consists of fewer EEG channels or even with a single EEG channel. However, electrooculogram (EOG) signal, also known as eye-blink artifact, produced by involuntary movement of eyelids, always contaminate the EEG signals. Very few techniques are available to remove these artifacts from single channel EEG and most of these techniques modify the uncontaminated regions of the EEG signal. In this paper, we developed a new framework that combines unsupervised machine learning algorithm (k-means) and singular spectrum analysis (SSA) technique to remove eye blink artifact without modifying actual EEG signal. The novelty of the work lies in the extraction of the eye-blink artifact based on the time-domain features of the EEG signal and the unsupervised machine learning algorithm. The extracted eye-blink artifact is further processed by the SSA method and finally subtracted from the contaminated single channel EEG signal to obtain the corrected EEG signal. Results with synthetic and real EEG signals demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method over the existing methods. Moreover, the frequency based measures [the power spectrum ratio ( $$\Gamma $$ Γ ) and the mean absolute error (MAE)] also show that the proposed method does not modify the uncontaminated regions of the EEG signal while removing the eye-blink artifact.

Abstract Current models to study the hematopoietic syndrome largely rely on the uniform whole-body exposures. However, in the radio-nuclear accidents or terrorist events, exposure can be non-uniform. The data available on the non-uniform exposures is limited. Thus, we have developed a mice model for studying the hematopoietic syndrome in the non-uniform or partial body exposure scenarios using the localized cobalt60 gamma radiation exposure. Femur region of Strain ‘A’ male mice was exposed to doses ranging from 7 to 20 Gy. The 30 day survival assay showed 19 Gy as LD100 and 17 Gy as LD50. We measured an array of cytokines and important stem cell markers such as IFN-γ, IL-3, IL-6, GM-CSF, TNF-α, G-CSF, IL-1α, IL-1β, CD 34 and Sca 1. We found significant changes in IL-6, GM-CSF, TNF-α, G-CSF, and IL-1β levels compared to untreated groups and amplified levels of CD 34 and Sca 1 positive population in the irradiated mice compared to the untreated controls. Overall, we have developed a mouse model of the hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome that might be useful for understanding of the non-uniform body exposure scenarios. This may also be helpful in the screening of drugs intended for individuals suffering from radiation induced hematopoietic syndrome.

Abstract The large and complex genome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which consists of significant portions (up to 20%) of transferable genetic elements contributes to the rapid development of antibiotic resistance. The whole genome sequences of 22 strains isolated from eye and cystic fibrosis patients in Australia and India between 1992 and 2007 were used to compare genomic divergence and phylogenetic relationships as well as genes for antibiotic resistance and virulence factors. Analysis of the pangenome indicated a large variation in the size of accessory genome amongst 22 stains and the size of the accessory genome correlated with number of genomic islands, insertion sequences and prophages. The strains were diverse in terms of sequence type and dissimilar to that of global epidemic P. aeruginosa clones. Of the eye isolates, 62% clustered together within a single lineage. Indian eye isolates possessed genes associated with resistance to aminoglycoside, beta-lactams, sulphonamide, quaternary ammonium compounds, tetracycline, trimethoprims and chloramphenicols. These genes were, however, absent in Australian isolates regardless of source. Overall, our results provide valuable information for understanding the genomic diversity of P. aeruginosa isolated from two different infection types and countries.

Abstract Only three immediate early genes (IE) BICP0, BICP4 and BICP22 of Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) are known. These genes are expressed coordinately and their promoters are well characterized. We provide evidence for expression of three additional IE genes of BoHV-1 i.e. UL21, UL33 and UL34. These genes are expressed in the presence of cycloheximide (CH) at the same time as known IE genes. Surprisingly, the promoters of newly identified IE genes (UL21, UL33, UL34) lack the OCT-1 binding site, a considered site of transactivation of the BoHV-1 IE genes. The other difference in the promoters of the newly identified IE genes is the presence of TATA box at near optimal site. However, all the IE genes have similar spatial placements of C/EBPα, DPE and INR elements.