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SUMMARY: Seed color is one of the key target traits of domestication and artificial selection in chickpeas due to its implications on consumer preference and market value. The complex seed color trait has been well dissected in several crop species; however, the genetic mechanism underlying seed color variation in chickpea remains poorly understood. Here, we employed an integrated genomics strategy involving QTL mapping, high‐density mapping, map‐based cloning, association analysis, and molecular haplotyping in an inter‐specific RIL mapping population, association panel, wild accessions, and introgression lines (ILs) of Cicer gene pool. This delineated a MATE gene, CaMATE23, encoding a Transparent Testa (TT) and its natural allele (8‐bp insertion) and haplotype underlying a major QTL governing seed color on chickpea chromosome 4. Signatures of selective sweep and a strong purifying selection reflected that CaMATE23, especially its 8‐bp insertion natural allelic variant, underwent selection during chickpea domestication. Functional investigations revealed that the 8‐bp insertion containing the third cis‐regulatory RY‐motif element in the CaMATE23 promoter is critical for enhanced binding of CaFUSCA3 transcription factor, a key regulator of seed development and flavonoid biosynthesis, thereby affecting CaMATE23 expression and proanthocyanidin (PA) accumulation in the seed coat to impart varied seed color in chickpea. Consequently, overexpression of CaMATE23 in Arabidopsis tt12 mutant partially restored the seed color phenotype to brown pigmentation, ascertaining its functional role in PA accumulation in the seed coat. These findings shed new light on the seed color regulation and evolutionary history, and highlight the transcriptional regulation of CaMATE23 by CaFUSCA3 in modulating seed color in chickpea. The functionally relevant InDel variation, natural allele, and haplotype from CaMATE23 are vital for translational genomic research, including marker‐assisted breeding, for developing chickpea cultivars with desirable seed color that appeal to consumers and meet global market demand. Significance Statement: Integrated genomic strategy provides novel insights into the transcriptional regulatory role of functional allele and haplotype delineated in a MATE gene selected during Cicer domestication, in regulating varied seed color of chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Summary: The imports and exports are the major activity of any customs department of the country. Customs officers have to verify all the documents as per the customs act of the country, requirements, and give clearance for exports and imports. But due to the limited period and ease of doing business initiatives, it is impossible to verify each produced paper. Sometimes, forged documents may be produced by parties, and based on illegal documents; illegal exports and imports can be taken place. Due to existing message exchange and application program interface (API)‐based information interchange among participating parties having their centralized server, the possibility of delay in message and authenticity of the sender, information mutation may occur. So the concept of blockchain overcomes these issues by enabling secured, encrypted, immutable transactions among participating parties such as exporter/importer, banks, customs, shipping lines, international parties, and so forth. Thus, this paper proposes a blockchain‐based Business process model and notation (BPMN) framework and smart contract for the country of origin certificate management system against forged certificate in Indian customs and international usage and usage of IPFS (Inter Planetary File System) for sharing multilateral agreement files on the blockchain network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear energy generation technology is critically linked with the safe disposal of radioactive waste. In this context, iron phosphate glass (IPG) is gaining predominance as nuclear waste vitrification matrix that necessitates a thorough study on the effect of the loading of various nuclear fission waste materials in it. In this study, the effect of the loading of Nd3+ (which acts as a surrogate for radioactive curium (Cm)) and Ru4+ (which is a fission product of 235U) in IPG has been assessed. The optimum loading of Nd3+/Ru4+ leading to the formation of homogenous melt has been ascertained via powder X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The modification in the Fe3+/Fe2+ ratio in IPG and the consequent change in its average coordination number with Nd3+/Ru4+ loading has been deduced from the Mössbauer studies. Local structure analysis has been done using X‐ray absorption spectroscopy at Nd/Ru/Fe K‐edge (as applicable) for all the single and co‐loaded IPG samples. All the co‐loaded samples show enhanced glass stability and glass forming ability compared to unloaded IPG which has been ascertained via detailed thermal studies. The variation in IPG network structure on the addition of Nd2O3 and RuO2 has been ascertained through spectroscopic techniques like Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman. The base glass and a few representative homogenous single and co‐loaded IPG samples have been irradiated with 4.5 MeV proton beam to simulate the hosting of radioactive elements and the radiation effect on glass structure has been ascertained using FTIR and Raman spectroscopies. The suitability of IPG as nuclear waste vitrification matrix for Nd3+ and Ru4+ is established through all the above analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LixFePO4 cathode material with x = 1.00, 1.05, 1.10, 1.15, and 1.20 has been synthesized by chemical precipitation method. The particles of LixFePO4 material are further in‐situ coated with emeraldine salt (ES) polymer. These ES coated LixFePO4 (LixFePO4‐ES) particles have been characterized by XRD, FE‐SEM, TEM, and DTA/TG analyses. The XRD analysis of LixFePO4 indicates the formation of pure single phase of LiFePO4 (for x = 1.00, 1.05, and 1.10). Excess of lithium have no influence on the crystal structure of LixFePO4 upto x = 1.10 and no other phase containing Li+ is formed. The material LixFePO4 (for x = 1.15) shows low intensity peaks corresponding to Li3PO4 phase at 2θ = 22.31° and 23.19°. The peaks are found significant for the composite material for x = 1.20. The micrograph of composite powder LixFePO4‐ES shows good coverage of LixFePO4 particle by PANI. The materials LixFePO4 and LixFePO4‐ES (x = 1.00–1.20) are tested for discharge capacity and electrochemical impedance measurements for cathode materials. The electrochemical impedance spectra of LixFePO4‐ES (x = 1.00 to 1.20) show low charge transfer resistance (Rct), as compared to LixFePO4 indicating polyaniline incorporation have offered good conductivity. The highest discharge capacity of 131 mAh g–1 is obtained at the current rate of 2C for LixFePO4‐ES (x = 1.10) cathode. The impurity phase that appears in the XRD pattern reduces the discharge capacity of LixFePO4‐ES (x = 1.15 and 1.20). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: The advent of the pangenome era has unraveled previously unknown genetic variation existing within diverse crop plants, including rice. This untapped genetic variation is believed to account for a major portion of phenotypic variation existing in crop plants. However, the use of conventional single reference‐guided genotyping often fails to capture a large portion of this genetic variation leading to a reference bias. This makes it difficult to identify and utilize novel population/cultivar‐specific genes for crop improvement. Thus, we developed a Rice Pangenome Genotyping Array (RPGA) harboring probes assaying 80K single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and presence–absence variants spanning the entire 3K rice pangenome. This array provides a simple, user‐friendly and cost‐effective (60–80 USD per sample) solution for rapid pangenome‐based genotyping in rice. The genome‐wide association study (GWAS) conducted using RPGA‐SNP genotyping data of a rice diversity panel detected a total of 42 loci, including previously known as well as novel genomic loci regulating grain size/weight traits in rice. Eight of these identified trait‐associated loci (dispensable loci) could not be detected with conventional single reference genome‐based GWAS. A WD repeat‐containing PROTEIN 12 gene underlying one of such dispensable locus on chromosome 7 (qLWR7) along with other non‐dispensable loci were subsequently detected using high‐resolution quantitative trait loci mapping confirming authenticity of RPGA‐led GWAS. This demonstrates the potential of RPGA‐based genotyping to overcome reference bias. The application of RPGA‐based genotyping for population structure analysis, hybridity testing, ultra‐high‐density genetic map construction and chromosome‐level genome assembly, and marker‐assisted selection was also demonstrated. A web application (http://www.rpgaweb.com) was further developed to provide an easy to use platform for the imputation of RPGA‐based genotyping data using 3K rice reference panel and subsequent GWAS. Significance Statement: RPGA is a vital tool for diverse genomics‐assisted breeding applications and accelerated crop improvement in rice, as it provides an efficient pangenome‐based genotyping solution to overcome reference bias imposed by conventional single reference genome‐based genotyping strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A near tissue equivalent (Zeff = 10.8) and wide bandgap (Eg = 5.95 eV) Al5BO9: Mn, Li nanophosphor was synthesized by facile gel‐combustion (GC) method, and structural characterizations were performed by XRD, infra‐red, transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectra, diffuse reflectance UV–visible spectra, and PL studies. Thermoluminescence (TL) study of Al5BO9: Mn, Li revealed the dosimetry glow peak at 542 K, which was absent in undoped Al5BO9 indicating the importance of Mn dopant. The highest TL response was obtained for the lowest studied dopant concentration (0.1 mol% Mn) that was attributed to the concentration quenching phenomenon. The material is highly reusable with low fading (<10%) up to 110 days. TL response for both thermal neutron and gamma radiations showed excellent linearity within 5 × 109–3 × 1011 n/cm2 and 30–5000 Gy, respectively. These studies suggested promising potential of Al5BO9: Mn, Li nanophosphor in clinical neutron dosimetry and food irradiation dosimetry applications. Based on the variation of calcination temperature, strategy toward dual application, namely, radiation dosimeter and red‐light emitting phosphor of the material was established. For a better understanding of the TL process, various kinetic parameters like activation energy (E), order of kinetics (b), and frequency factor (s) were evaluated using different methodologies, and the results were found to be in good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slag waste‐filled phenolic resin‐based automotive brake friction composites were formulated, fabricated, followed by mechanical, physical characterization, and tribo‐evaluation. According to economic commission for Europe regulation, the tribological performance of the composites was evaluated on a Krauss friction‐testing machine. The increase in slag waste content led to increased physical properties such as density, porosity, ash contents, and compressibility, whereas hardness, acetone extraction, and shear strength increased with increased phenolic resin content. The fade and friction performance has been observed to be highly dependent on the slag waste content, that is, both followed a consistent decrease with the increase in the phenolic resin content, whereas the frictional fluctuations have been observed to decrease with the increase in slag waste content. In particular, the composites containing 65 wt% slag waste and 5 wt% phenolic resin showed the highest friction coefficient (0.406), lowest fade (20.44%) and frictional fluctuation (0.209), but the wear (10.80 g) and disc temperature rise (618°C) remains highest. Composite with the lowest slag waste content of 50 wt% combined with the highest phenolic resin of 20 wt% showed higher recovery performance (120.63%), lowest wear (4.45 g) and disc temperature rise (536°C), but exhibits lowest friction coefficient (0.315) and friction stability (0.79) along with highest friction variability (0.60) and fluctuations (0.238). Friction and wear data analysis revealed the predominance of the fade factor for friction performance while the fade factor and disc temperature‐induced results significantly influence the wear performance. The worn surface micrograph showed higher phenolic resin‐filled composites form smooth contact plateaus that successfully reduced wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed size is one of the major determinants of seed weight and eventually, crop yield. As the global population is increasing beyond the capacity of current food production, enhancing seed size is a key target for crop breeders. Despite the identification of several genes and QTLs, current understanding about the molecular regulation of seed size/weight remains fragmentary. In the present study, we report novel role of a jasmonic acid (JA) signaling repressor, OsJAZ11 controlling rice seed width and weight. Transgenic rice lines overexpressing OsJAZ11 exhibited up to a 14% increase in seed width and ~30% increase in seed weight compared to wild type (WT). Constitutive expression of OsJAZ11 dramatically influenced spikelet morphogenesis leading to extra glume‐like structures, open hull, and abnormal numbers of floral organs. Furthermore, overexpression lines accumulated higher JA levels in spikelets and developing seeds. Expression studies uncovered altered expression of JA biosynthesis/signaling and MADS box genes in overexpression lines compared to WT. Yeast two‐hybrid and pull‐down assays revealed that OsJAZ11 interacts with OsMADS29 and OsMADS68. Remarkably, expression of OsGW7, a key negative regulator of grain size, was significantly reduced in overexpression lines. We propose that OsJAZ11 participates in the regulation of seed size and spikelet development by coordinating the expression of JA‐related, OsGW7 and MADS genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, composite of Mo2C embedded in carbon and decorated on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was synthesised by simple and inexpensive method followed by reduction‐carbonisation for anode material for sodium ion battery. A series of techniques were utilized for structural, morphological and electrochemical characterizations. The electrochemical behaviour of Mo2C composites as anode materials of sodium ion battery was explored thoroughly. Mo2C embedded in carbon and decorated on rGO nanosheets (Mo2C/C/rGO) showed enhanced electrochemical performance in all respects. This unique design of Mo2C/C/rGO exhibited specific capacity of 498 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1 current density and it retained 96.4 % of its initial capacity after 750 cycles. The added carbon and rGO nanosheets not only enhanced electronic conductivity but also minimized the adverse effect arises due to volume expansion during charging and discharging. The full cell fabricated with this rationally designed anode against NaNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 cathode delivered specific capacity of approximately 107 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1. Theoretical studies disclose that strong interaction between Mo2C and graphene modifies the band structure and geometrical parameters which facilitates sodium ion movement in the composite. These results shed light on Mo2C/C/rGO as future potential anode material for sodium ion battery application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate different baseline characteristics, clinical indications, repeat retinopexy rate, and 6‐month detachment rate of primary laser retinopexy across different ethnicities. Method: Retrospective, single‐centre, consecutive comparative study, looking at all patients who had primary laser retinopexy between January 2017 and 2020. Multivariate Cox survival [reporting hazard ratio (HR)] and binary logistic regression (reporting odds ratio) analyses were performed to investigate differences between ethnicities with age, gender, operator level (vitreoretinal or general ophthalmologist) and high myopia status (≤−6.0 Dioptres) as covariates. Results: We report on 812 patients in three ethnicities: Black [69 (8.5%)], South Asian [SA, 156 (19.2%)] and White [587 (72.3%)] with overall 6‐month detachment rate of 31 (3.8%). Rate for subsequent retinopexies was Black: 12 (17.4%), SA: 15 (9.6%) and White: 131 (22.3%), p = 0.002. Multivariate Cox survival regression analysis found no difference in detachment rate between ethnicities. South Asian (SA) had lower repeat retinopexy rate than White patients [HR, 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22–0.71, p = 0.002)]. Multivariate binary logistic regression found that Black and SA patients compared with White, have the following: (i) higher proportion of round holes relative to horseshoe tears [OR, 2.31 (95% CI, 1.19–4.49, p = 0.014) and OR, 2.06 (95% CI, 1.25–3.40), p = 0.004, respectively] and (ii) higher proportion of high myopia [OR, 2.99 (95% CI, 1.20–7.46, p = 0.019) and OR, 2.35 (95% CI, 1.11–4.96), p = 0.025, respectively]. Ethnic minorities were younger than White patients: SA [43, interquartile range (IQR), 28–61], Black (49, IQR, 35–57) and White (61, IQR, 54–67 years, p < 0.001) and had more indirect and 360 retinopexy compared with slit lamp (p < 0.001). Conclusion: We demonstrate a significant difference in baseline characteristics, retinal tear morphology and treatment course between the ethnic groups. Further studies are necessary to investigate the genetic and biological differences that may influence these variations and may help to allow for more targeted health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) shell powder (SSP), a cheap source of saponins, on growth performance, immunity, serum biochemistry and gut health of broiler chickens. The experimental design was 4×2, employing four saponin levels (0, 100, 150 and 200 mg/kg diet), each provided for two time durations (0–42 day and 21–42 day) resulting into eight dietary treatments. Results revealed no significant effect of dietary saponins on body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio of birds. The abdominal fat percentage, heterophil to lymphocyte ratio, serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, faecal total plate count, coliform count and E. coli count decreased (p < .05) progressively with increasing saponin levels and lower values were observed at 150 mg and 200 mg saponin levels. Significant improvement of cell‐mediated and humoral immune response was observed in birds fed 150 mg and 200 mg saponin compared to control. The serum glucose concentration was significantly (p < .05) higher in control group compared to other groups. No significant effects of dietary saponin were observed on carcass characteristics, faecal Lactobacillus count, intestinal histomorphometry and cost economics of broiler chicken production. Thus, dietary saponins at 150 mg/kg diet as SSP for three weeks (21–42 days) was optimum for better immunity and welfare of birds without adverse effects on the growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mustura subhashi, new species, is described from the Dikal River, a north bank tributary of the Brahmaputra drainage in Arunachal Pradesh. It is distinguished from all its congeners by having a colour pattern of 14–23 dark‐greyish black to dark brown irregular bars on a greyish to pale beige body; pre‐dorsal bars thin, numerous, wider than interspaces, weakly contrasted, uniting dorsally at lateral one‐third or midway on flank to form thicker bars, coalescing further at lateral one‐fifth and continuous on dorsum with contralateral bars; bars below dorsal fin exhibiting similar condition but slightly wider than pre‐dorsal bars; post‐dorsal bars thicker than anterior bars, wider than interspaces, sharply contrasted, rarely coalescing on flank; and a short bar along the caudal mid‐line, rarely forming a blotch. Based on re‐examination of the type specimens and additional materials, Mustura dikrongensis is confirmed as a species belonging to Mustura, and M. harkishorei is not sufficiently diagnosed from 'Nemacheilus' corica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the role of flaxseed meal (FSM), a rich terrestrial source of ω‐3 fatty acids, in the alteration of the fatty acid profile and metabolism, health indices, physicochemical properties, and sensory quality of broiler chicken meat. The broiler chickens were fed 100 g FSM kg−1 diet for different time periods (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks). The results revealed that 100 g FSM feeding in broiler chickens for at least 3 weeks increased (P < 0.01) the EPA, DHA, MUFA, PUFA, ω‐3 PUFA, and ω‐6 PUFA of broiler chicken meat with the corresponding decrease in palmitic acid, stearic acid, and SFA content. 100 g FSM feeding up to 3 weeks has increased the Δ9‐desaturases (P < 0.05), thioesterase index (P < 0.01), and Δ5‐desaturase + Δ6‐desaturase activity (P < 0.01) along with an improvement in health indices (P < 0.01) of chicken meat. Similarly, a reduction in meat cholesterol and fat content of thigh meat (P < 0.01) was observed by feeding 100 g FSM for at least 3 weeks with no effect on the pH, color scores, and sensory evaluation of broiler chicken meat. The water‐holding capacity (WHC) and extract release volume (ERV) decreased, whereas, drip loss of meat increased (P < 0.01) due to the feeding of 100 g FSM beyond 3 weeks. Thus, this study concluded that 100 g FSM feeding for 3 weeks in broiler chickens significantly improves the fatty acid profile, lipid metabolism, and health indices of meat, without compromising the physicochemical properties of broiler chicken meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blumeria graminis (DC). E.U. Speer f.sp. tritici Em. Marchal (Syn. Erysiphe graminis DC f.sp. tritici, Em. Marchal), a causal organism of powdery mildew (PM), is one of the important diseases of wheat worldwide. A comprehensive evaluation of wheat germplasm accessions (19,460) conserved in the National Genebank of ICAR–National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources was conducted to identify sources of resistance to PM. Accessions belonging to the three wheat species—bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L. subsp. aestivum) (15,944), durum wheat (T. durum Desf.) (3,359), and emmer wheat (T. dicoccum Schrank ex Schübl.) (157)—were screened at Wellington, a hotspot location for PM, for two consecutive seasons. Screening results indicated that 7271 (45%) from bread wheat, 756 (22%) from durum wheat, and 22 (14%) from emmer were resistant. Out of 8094 PM‐resistant accessions, 60% were indigenous, while majority of the 40% exotic were from CIMMYT. Focused identification of germplasm strategy (FIGS), which identifies a set of similar plant genotypes with a greater possibility of containing specific target traits, was used to form a subset of 52 accessions (from 19,460) that have the potential to contain new PM resistance genes. Resistant accessions identified in the study have enriched the existing gene pool for PM resistance in wheat and will serve as a potential source for resistance in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Rice grain size and weight are major determinants of grain quality and yield and so have been under rigorous selection since domestication. However, the genetic basis for contrasting grain size/weight trait among Indian germplasms and their association with domestication‐driven evolution is not well understood. In this study, two long (LGG) and two short grain (SGG) genotypes were resequenced. LGG (LGR and PB 1121) differentiated from SGG (Sonasal and Bindli) by 504 439 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 78 166 insertion‐and‐deletion polymorphisms. The LRK gene cluster was different and a truncation mutation in the LRK8 kinase domain was associated with LGG. Phylogeny with 3000 diverse rice accessions revealed that the four sequenced genotypes belonged to the japonica group and were at the edge of the clades indicating them to be the potential source of genetic diversity available in Indian rice germplasm. Six SNPs were significantly associated with grain size/weight and the top four of these could be validated in mapping a population, suggesting this study as a valuable resource for high‐throughput genotyping. A contiguous long low‐diversity region (LDR) of approximately 6 Mb carrying a major grain weight quantitative trait loci (harbouring OsTOR gene) was identified on Chromosome 5. This LDR was identified as an evolutionary important site with significant positive selection and multiple selection sweeps, and showed association with many domestication‐related traits, including grain size/weight. The aus population retained more allelic variations in the LDR than the japonica and indica populations, suggesting it to be one of the divergence loci. All the data and analyses can be accessed from the RiceSzWtBase database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Mediator, a multisubunit co‐activator complex, regulates transcription in eukaryotes and is involved in diverse processes in Arabidopsis through its different subunits. Here, we have explored developmental aspects of one of the rice Mediator subunit gene OsMED14_1. We analyzed its expression pattern through RNA in situ hybridization and pOsMED14_1:GUS transgenics that showed its expression in roots, leaves, anthers and seeds prominently at younger stages, indicating possible involvement of this subunit in multiple aspects of rice development. To understand the developmental roles of OsMED14_1 in rice, we generated and studied RNAi‐based knockdown rice plants that showed multiple effects including less height, narrower leaves and culms with reduced vasculature, lesser lateral root branching, defective microspore development, reduced panicle branching and seed set, and smaller seeds. Histological analyses showed that slender organs were caused by reduction in both cell number and cell size in OsMED14_1 knockdown plants. Flow cytometric analyses and expression analyses of cell cycle‐related genes revealed that defective cell‐cycle progression led to these defects. Expression analyses of auxin‐related genes and indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) immunolocalization study indicated altered auxin level in these knockdown plants. Reduction of lateral root branching in knockdown plants was corrected by exogenous IAA supplement. OsMED14_1 physically interacts with transcription factors YABBY5, TAPETUM DEGENERATION RETARDATION (TDR) and MADS29, possibly regulating auxin homeostasis and ultimately leading to lateral organ/leaf, microspore and seed development. Significance Statement: The current study addresses the mechanism of developmental control by the Mediator subunit gene OsMED14_1 in rice, thereby enhancing the understanding of subunit specific Mediator functions in plants. Spatio‐temporal expression pattern, knockdown effects, auxin‐related gene expression/immunolocalization studies and protein level interactions unravel the involvement of OsMED14_1 in various developmental processes and provide a mechanistic view of its action in regulating these processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is primarily transmitted by Aedes spp. mosquitoes. The present study investigated vector competence for CHIKV in Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes found in Madurai, South India. The role of receptor proteins on midguts contributing to permissiveness of CHIKV to Aedes spp. mosquitoes was also undertaken. Mosquitoes were orally infected with CHIKV DRDE‐06. Infection of midguts and dissemination to heads was confirmed by immunofluorescence assay at different time points. A plaque assay was performed from mosquito homogenates at different time points to study CHIKV replication. Presence of putative CHIKV receptor proteins on mosquito midgut epithelial cells was detected by virus overlay protein binding assay (VOPBA). The identity of these proteins was established using mass spectrometry. CHIKV infection of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus midguts and dissemination to heads was observed to be similar. A plaque assay performed with infected mosquito homogenates revealed that CHIKV replication dynamics was similar in Aedes sp. mosquitoes until 28 days post infection. VOPBA performed with mosquito midgut membrane proteins revealed that prohibitin could serve as a putative CHIKV receptor on Aedes mosquito midguts, whereas an absence of CHIKV binding protein/s on Culex quinquefasciatus midguts can partially explain the non‐permissiveness of these mosquitoes to infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study is to evaluate the fatty acid profile, oxidative stability, and other associated quality attributes of broiler chicken meat as affected by feeding ration containing flaxseed, broken rice, and distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS). Six dietary treatments are formulated with no flaxseed in the first one and 10% in the other five; and 20% broken rice, 40% broken rice, 5% DDGS, and 10% DDGS in the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth treatments, respectively. No dietary effects are observed on body weight gain, but 10% flaxseed along with either broken rice or DDGS increases feed intake of birds. The flaxseed significantly reduces feed efficiency of birds which is further reduces by 10% DDGS. The flaxseed significantly increases the ω‐3 PUFA, ω‐3:ω‐6, PUFA:SFA, MUFA:SFA, UFA:SFA ratios with consequent decrease in percentage of saturated fatty acids (SFA), atherogenic index, and thrombogenic index of broiler chicken meat, which is furthered by DDGS inclusion. Flaxseed inclusion significantly reduces cholesterol, fat, water holding capacity (WHC), and antioxidant capacity, whereas, it increases the pH (fresh meat), drip loss, and lipid peroxidation of broiler chicken meat. Inclusion of DDGS levels further increases drip loss, and lipid peroxidation, whereas, it further reduces WHC, extract release volume (ERV), and antioxidant capacity of broiler chicken meat. The study indicates that inclusion of 10% flaxseed along with 5% or 10% DDGS improves chicken meat fatty acid profiles, health related indices, and reduces the cholesterol and fat content, but compromises the feed efficiency of birds and the oxidative stability of meat. Practical Application: The inclusion of 10% flaxseed along with 5% or 10% DDGS increases PUFA content, ω‐3/ω‐6 ratio, and decreases the saturated fatty acid content of broiler chicken meat. The 10% flaxseed also reduces the cholesterol and fat content of meat. This designed meat can help reduce the incidences of cardiovascular diseases. The flaxseed and DDGS inclusion reduces WHC and increases drip loss which may have detrimental effects on further processing of meat. However, both flaxseed and DDGS inclusion compromises the oxidative stability of meat and feed efficiency of birds which reflects badly on shelf life of meat and profitability of broiler production. Thus, it needs to be addressed by adding suitable antioxidant in the broiler ration. As a result of changing food habits among people cardiovascular diseases are on the rise, the treatment costs of which are economically highly regressive. Here comes into play, the famous quote of Hippocrates “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Designing the food we eat will help prevent these cardiovascular diseases. In this regard flaxseed and DDGS inclusion in broiler chicken ration results in ω‐3 fatty acid enriched meat with health promoting effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Plant height (PH) and plant width (PW), two of the major plant architectural traits determining the yield and productivity of a crop, are defined by diverse morphometric characteristics of the shoot apical meristem (SAM). The identification of potential molecular tags from a single gene that simultaneously modulates these plant/SAM architectural traits is therefore prerequisite to achieve enhanced yield and productivity in crop plants, including chickpea. Large‐scale multienvironment phenotyping of the association panel and mapping population have ascertained the efficacy of three vital SAM morphometric trait parameters, SAM width, SAM height and SAM area, as key indicators to unravel the genetic basis of the wide PW and PH trait variations observed in desi chickpea. This study integrated a genome‐wide association study (GWAS); quantitative trait locus (QTL)/fine‐mapping and map‐based cloning with molecular haplotyping; transcript profiling; and protein‐DNA interaction assays for the dissection of plant architectural traits in chickpea. These exertions delineated natural alleles and superior haplotypes from a CabHLH121 transcription factor (TF) gene within the major QTL governing PW, PH and SAM morphometric traits. A genome‐wide protein‐DNA interaction assay assured the direct binding of a known stem cell master regulator, CaWUS, to the WOX‐homeodomain TF binding sites of a CabHLH121 gene and its constituted haplotypes. The differential expression of CaWUS and transcriptional regulation of its target CabHLH121 gene/haplotypes were apparent, suggesting their collective role in altering SAM morphometric characteristics and plant architectural traits in the contrasting near isogenic lines (NILs). The NILs introgressed with a superior haplotype of a CabHLH121 exhibited optimal PW and desirable PH as well as enhanced yield and productivity without compromising any component of agronomic performance. These molecular signatures of the CabHLH121 TF gene have the potential to regulate both PW and PH traits through the modulation of proliferation, differentiation and maintenance of the meristematic stem cell population in the SAM; therefore, these signatures will be useful in the translational genomic study of chickpea genetic enhancement. The restructured cultivars with desirable PH (semidwarf) and PW will ensure maximal planting density in a specified cultivable field area, thereby enhancing the overall yield and productivity of chickpea. This can essentially facilitate the achievement of better remunerative outputs by farmers with rational land use, therefore ensuring global food security in the present scenario of an increasing population density and shrinking per capita land area. Significance Statement: Superior transcriptional signatures delineated from CabHLH121 enhanced yield and productivity by modulating vital plant architectural (plant width and plant height) and SAM morphometric traits without compromising any component of agronomic performance in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to study the effect of different doses of hemp seed alone or in combination with dill seed against antibiotic growth promoter on performance, serum biochemicals and gut health of broiler chickens over a period of 42 days. Total 192 broiler chicks were grouped randomly into six treatments and fed with basal diet (BD) along with different levels of seeds, viz., T1 (BD), T2 (BD + 0.2% HS), T3 (BD + 0.2% HS + 0.3 DS), T4 (BD + 0.3% HS) and T5 (BD + 0.3% HS + 0.3 DS) and T6 (BD + 0.025% Bacitracin Methylene Disalicylate‐BMD). The performance traits like feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) and carcass traits like cut‐up parts, giblet and abdominal fat yield remained unaffected due to dietary treatments for overall trial period; however, the average feed intake in early phase (0–3 weeks) reduced significantly (p < 0.05) in treatment birds than both controls (T1 & T6). Serum protein concentration remained unchanged, whereas significant (p < 0.05) reduction in serum lipids like triglyceride, LDL and total cholesterol concentration was noticed due to dietary inclusion of seeds. Serum enzymes like AST and ALT concentrations depleted significantly (p < 0.05) treated groups, except at higher seed doses (T5); however, alkaline phosphatase levels were unaffected. Coliform count in caecum and jejunum reduced linearly (p < 0.01) due to seed inclusion, whereas dose‐dependent proliferation of lactobacilli was evident (p < 0.01) in caecum and jejunum of treated birds. No effect was observed on the villus height and crypt depth of the jejunal mucosa. To conclude, dietary supplementation of hemp and dill seed could not affect the growth performance and carcass traits; however, it positively altered the serum lipid profile of the birds and improved gut health as well, thereby enhanced overall performance of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the genetic basis of photosynthetic efficiency (PE) contributing to enhanced seed yield per plant (SYP) is vital for genomics‐assisted crop improvement of chickpea. The current study employed an integrated genomic strategy involving photosynthesis pathway gene‐based association mapping, genome‐wide association study, quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, and expression profiling. This identified 16 potential single nucleotide polymorphism loci linked to major QTLs underlying 16 candidate genes significantly associated with PE and SYP traits in chickpea. The allelic variants were tightly linked to positively interacting QTLs regulating both enhanced PE and SYP traits as exemplified by a chlorophyll A‐B binding protein‐coding gene. The leaf tissue‐specific pronounced up‐regulated expression of 16 associated genes in germplasm accessions and homozygous individuals of mapping population was evident. Such combinatorial genomic strategy coupled with gene haplotype‐specific association and in silico protein–protein interaction study delineated natural alleles and superior haplotypes from a chlorophyll A‐B binding (CAB) protein‐coding gene and its interacting gene, Timing of CAB Expression 1 (TOC1), which appear to be most promising candidates in modulating chickpea PE and SYP traits. These functionally pertinent molecular signatures identified have efficacy to drive marker‐assisted selection for developing PE‐enriched cultivars with high seed yield in chickpea. The photosynthetic efficiency of a crop contributes immensely to its ultimate yield and productivity. The present study aimed at identification of functionally relevant genetic factors for efficient dissection of photosynthetic efficiency and seed yield traits through integrated genomics‐assisted breeding strategies in chickpea. Natural allelic variants and superior haplotypes delineated from a chlorophyll A‐B binding protein‐coding gene and its interacting gene, Timing of CAB Expression 1, come up as the most potential candidates to enhance both photosynthetic efficiency and seed yield of chickpea. The salient outcomes can essentially drive translational genomic analysis to develop photosynthetically efficient high‐yielding cultivars in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Magnetic nanofiber (MNF) confined in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has been efficiently used in dehydrogenative coupling. A remarkable effect has been observed in the coupling of alcohols with diaminobenzene. This represents a new method to produce benzimidazoles in high yields under heterogeneous conditions without using expensive metals such as Pt, Ru, and Ir. This MNF was synthesized by reacting magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) with various spacers such as di‐, tri‐ and tetracarboxylic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A study of 120 days was undertaken to ascertain the effect of mannan‐oligosaccharides (MOS) and Lactobacillus acidophilus supplementation on growth performance, nutrient utilization and faecal characteristics in Murrah buffalo calves. Twenty Murrah buffalo calves of 5–7 days old and 31 ± 2.0 kg of body weight (BW) were randomly assigned into four groups. Group I served as the control (CON) in which only basal diet (concentrate mixture and green fodder) was provided, without any supplementation. Mannan‐oligosaccharides at 4 g/calf/day were supplemented as prebiotic to Group II (PRE), whereas Group III (PRO) received Lactobacillus acidophilus in the form of fermented milk as probiotic at 200 ml/calf/day having 108 CFU/ml and Group IV (SYN) was supplemented with both MOS and Lactobacillus acidophilus as synbiotic at similar dose. Final BW (kg), dry matter intake, average daily gain, feed conversion efficiency and structural growth measurements were improved (p < .05) in the treatment groups compared to control. Digestibility of neutral detergent fibre was higher (p < .05) in SYN followed by PRE and PRO than control. The faecal lactobacilli and bifidobacterium population was higher (p < .05) in all the supplemented groups with a concomitant reduction in faecal coliform count as compared to control. Faecal ammonia, lactate and pH were also altered favourably (p < .05) in all the supplemented groups as compared to CON. The faecal volatile fatty acids were higher (p < .05) in PRE, PRO and SYN group than CON. The incorporation of MOS and Lactobacillus acidophilus in diet either individually or in combination as synbiotic has the potential to improve the performance and faecal characteristics in Murrah buffalo calves; however, the observed responses among the treatment groups were more evident in the synbiotic fed group compared to individual supplementation of MOS and Lactobacillus acidophilus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The radiation-resistant response of BaTiO3 in the tetragonal and rhombohedral phases on exposure to 100 MeV Ag7+ ion irradiation was investigated by in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) at room temperature (300 K) and low temperature (25 K), respectively. This study revealed that the BaTiO3 in rhombohedral phase retained crystallinity up to an ion fluence of 1×1014 ions/cm2, whereas tetragonal phase amorphized at much lower fluence viz. 1×1013 ions/cm2. The in situ XRD along with Raman spectroscopy studies revealed that BaTiO3 in rhombohedral phase is more radiation resistant than that of tetragonal phase. The density functional theory ( DFT) calculations confirmed higher bond strength of rhombohedral phase as compared to tetragonal phase, which supported the experimental result of higher radiation stability of rhombohedral phase. The theoretical predictions on high-temperature phase will be of relevance to the nuclear waste applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The type IV secretion system of Helicobacter pylori (Cag-T4SS) is composed of ~ 27 components including a VirB8 homolog, CagV. We have characterized CagV and reported that it is an inner membrane protein and, like VirB8, forms a homodimer. Its stability is not dependent on the other Cag components and the absence of cagV affects the stability of only CagI, a protein involved in pilus formation. CagV is not required for the stability and localization of outer membrane subcomplex proteins, but interacts with them through CagX. It also interacts with the inner membrane-associated components, CagF and CagZ, and is required for the surface localization of CagA. The results of this study might help in deciphering the mechanistic contributions of CagV in the Cag-T4SS biogenesis and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pregnane and Xenobiotic Receptor (PXR; NR1I2) is a ligand-modulated transcription factor that belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily. It is expressed at higher levels primarily in liver and intestine as compared to the levels in several other organs. It is activated by a broad spectrum of xenobiotics and endobiotics. The primary function of PXR is to regulate the expression of drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters and prevent the accumulation of toxic chemicals in the body, thereby maintaining body's homeostasis. In this study, we identified a C/T single nucleotide polymorphism at position −831 from the transcriptional start site of the PXR gene promoter and examined the functional significance of this variant using both the luciferase reporter gene assays and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA). Transient transfection experiments showed that the T-allele was associated with significantly greater transcriptional activity than the C-allele of SNP rs3814055. These results indicate that the −831C/T polymorphism has a direct effect on transcriptional regulation of PXR gene. This allelic variation may be a potential genetic marker that can help identify individuals at higher risk for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium borosilicate (NBS) and barium sodium borosilicate (BBS) glasses, used for immobilization of high-level nuclear waste with compositions (SiO2)0.477(B2O3)0.239(Na2O)0.170 (TiO2)0.023(CaO)0.068(Al2O3)0.023 and (SiO2)0.482(B2O3)0.244 (Na2O)0.220(BaO)0.054 were subjected leaching experiments under hydrothermal conditions in an autoclave at 200°C for different time durations. Morphological and structural transformations associated with leaching, have been monitored with techniques like XRD, SEM, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance. XRD and SEM along with NMR studies have confirmed that, upon leaching, formation of an aluminosilicate phase, Zeolite-P (Na6Al6Si10O32.12H2O), occurs with NBS glass. BBS glass upon subjecting to the same conditions leads to formation of multiple amorphous phases having Q4 (silica rich phase) and Q³ structural units of Silicon along with structurally modified residual glass. Upon leaching BO3 structural units preferentially get released from BBS glass. Comparison of results with international simple glass confirmed that, for the latter, mass loss rates are one order of magnitude lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The bilobal lactoferrin is an approximately 76 kDa glycoprotein. It sequesters two Fe3+ ions together with two [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Conjugated linoleic acid ( CLA) isomers have high health amelioration potential and hence it is of great interest to increase the CLA content in dairy products. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of administration of high CLA producing Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens In-1 on fatty acid composition of milk and rumen fluid in lactating goats. Four groups ( n = 5) of lactating goats were assigned the following treatments: Control (C) (basal diet); T1 (basal diet + linoleic acid source), T2 (basal diet + suspension of Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens In-1, 109 CFU head−1) and T3 (basal diet + linoleic acid source + suspension of Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens In-1, 109 CFU head−1). RESULTS Rumen liquor and milk samples were collected on days 0, 15, 30, 60 and 90 of the experiment and linoleic isomerase enzyme ( LA-I) activity and fatty acid profiles were elucidated. Major effects of treatments were seen on day 30 of the experiment. Total CLA content of rumen fluid increased ( P < 0.05) by 218.72, 182.26 and 304% whereas total saturated fatty acid ( SFA) content was lowered ( P < 0.05) by 6.1, 4.44 and 9.55% in T1, T2 and T3, respectively, as compared to control. Vaccenic acid in groups T2 and T3 increased ( P < 0.05) by 66.67% and 105.7% as compared to control. In milk, total CLA increased by 2.03, 1.61 and 0.61 folds in T3, T2 and T1, respectively. Total monounsaturated fatty acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid content increased ( P < 0.05) in group T3 by 14.15 and 37.44%, respectively. CONCLUSION Results of the present study indicated that administration of B. fibrisolvens In-1 along with a linoleic acid ( LA) source is a useful strategy to alter the biohydrogenation pattern in the rumen that subsequently decreased SFA content while increased CLA and unsaturated fatty acids in ruminant's milk. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydraulic jumps formed in broken-back culverts were investigated experimentally by using energy dissipation devices. Additional examination measured the reduction in scour downstream of different-height broken-back culverts by forming a hydraulic jump inside the culverts. A broken-back culvert model in the laboratory represents 150 ft in the field. The results were analyzed in terms of the inlet Froude number and different drop heights of broken-back culverts. The calculated efficiency of energy dissipation in the culverts ranged between 55 and 90%. The dimensionless charts were created on the basis of data collection showing the relationship between the different relative drops and optimal sill height, optimal sill location, total head losses, optimal end sill, Froude number, and efficiency of hydraulic jump. The objective of this research was to obtain the maximum energy dissipation in different drop heights using analysis of dimensionless relationship charts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we report the structure, magnetic and dielectric properties of Y2CoMnO6 ( YCMO) and Y2NiMnO6 ( YNMO) prepared under various conditions. On annealing in inert atmosphere, YCMO sample shows a partial decomposition while YNMO remains unaffected. Both YCMO and YNMO samples show paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition around 80 K, but only the magnetic properties of YCMO samples depend on the preparation conditions. YCMO samples show antiferromagnetic ground state in zero field and a metamagnetic transition at relatively low field (~2 T). Differences in the annealing environment do not destroy the initial antiparallel spin order in YCMO, but affect the critical fields of metamagnetic transition. The field-dependent magnetic properties indicated soft ferromagnetic nature of YNMO samples. The dielectric measurements show distinct frequency and temperature-dependent features in YCMO samples compared to YNMO samples. A large relative permittivity with ε׳ of about 104 is observed in both O2 and air-annealed YCMO samples. Multiple dielectric relaxations are observed in all the annealed YCMO and YNMO samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tryptophan-rich antigens of malarial parasites interact with host molecules and play an important role in parasite survival. Merozoite expressed Plasmodium vivax tryptophan-rich antigen Pv TRAg38 binds to human erythrocytes and facilitates parasite growth in a heterlologous Plasmodium falciparum culture system. Recently, we identified band 3 in human erythrocytes as one of its receptors, although the receptor-ligand binding mechanisms remain unknown. In the present study, using synthetic mutated peptides of Pv TRAg38, we show that multiple amino acid residues of its 12 amino acid domain ( KWVQWKNDKIRS) at position 197-208 interact with three different ectodomains of band 3 receptor on human erythrocytes. Our findings may help in the design of new therapeutic approaches for malaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raman forbidden modes and surface defect-related Raman features in SnO2 nanostructures carry information about disorder and surface defects which strongly influence important technological applications like catalysis and sensing. Because of the weak intensities of these peaks, it is difficult to identify these features by using conventional Raman spectroscopy. Tip enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) studies conducted on SnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) of size 4 and 25nm have offered significant insights of prevalent defects and disorders. Along with one order enhancement in symmetry allowed Raman modes, new peaks related to disorder and surface defects of SnO2 NPs were found with significant intensity. Temperature-dependent Raman studies were also carried out for these NPs and correlated with the TERS spectra. For quasi-quantum dot sized 4-nmNPs, the TERS study was found to be the best technique to probe the finite size-related Raman forbidden modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three different phases of thorium(IV) oxalate hydrate [Th(C2O4)2 · xH2O] with different water contents, namely, the hexahydrate, dihydrate, and anhydrous phases, were prepared by thermal treatment of the as-precipitated hydrated thorium(IV) oxalates. With the change in water content, the structure changes from monoclinic ( C2/ m) for the hexahydrate to monoclinic ( C2/ c) for the dihydrate and finally to a highly disordered phase for the anhydrous state. The local coordination around the Th4+ ions in these structures was monitored by using Eu3+ ions as luminescent probes. The analyses of the emission spectra owing to the electric-dipole transitions (EDTs) and magnetic-dipole transitions (MDTs) of the Eu3+ ions in the different phases revealed that the site symmetry around the Th4+ ions decreases systematically from symmetric to highly distorted with the decrease in water content. The relative intensity ratios ( I) of the EDT to MDT for x = 6, 2, and 0 are 2.36, 3.32, and 4.23, respectively. The analyses of the delay curves corresponding to the 5D0 level of the Eu3+ ions indicated biexponential decay with varying lifetimes, which suggests two possible environments around the Eu3+ ions and a possible role of oxygen vacancies. The long-lived species is expected to be distant from the charge-compensation defects, whereas the short-lived species is nearer to the charge-compensation defect. Tunability of the emission with the excitation wavelength is observed for all phases and is attributed to the presence of defect-mediated broad emission in the blue region and red-orange emission from the Eu3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alumina has wide applications in industry, automobiles, electrical appliances etc. However its application as biomaterial has started recently. We propose to improve the bio-physical, bio-chemical and bio-medical properties of alumina for its application as biomaterial by nitrogen ion implantation. Alumina is implanted with nitrogen ions at different energies (30 keV to 90 keV) and various ion doses (1 × 1015 ions/cm2 to 5 × 1017 ions/cm2). The microstructural changes and surface roughness of the specimens are characterized using Optical Microscope, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Nano-layered compound formation of nitrides & oxynitrides were observed using Glancing angle X-ray Diffraction (GXRD). Mechanical changes like hardness are studied using nanoindentation method. It is observed that corrosion resistance studied using Electrochemical analyzer (ECA) increases at lower energy and at intermediate ion dose. At higher energy and higher ion doses corrosion resistance deteriorates which is in co-ordinance with the micrstructural analysis. Bio-medical characterization of the specimens has been carried out by Wettability and Thrombogenicity tests. Wettability decreases in comparison with unimplanted samples. The thrombogenicity of unimplanted and implanted samples were evaluated using a whole blood kinetic clotting time method. From thrombogenicity test, it is concluded that at lower energy, thrombogenicity increases whereas for higher energy thrombogenicity decreases in comparison with the unimplanted samples. On the basis of all the above studies, best suitable energy and ion-dose is decided for the hard tissue replacement by alumina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-Ag2WO4 nanorods with an average diameter of 15 to 25 nm and a surface area of ca. 115.0 ± 0.2 m2/g have been synthesized by a facile sonochemical technique. These nanorods have been used for the adsorption of various cationic dyes (rhodamine B, methylene blue, and malachite green) from aqueous solution. The adsorption process is fast, and ca. 100 % adsorption of a 20 ppm mixture of all three dyes occurs within 10 min. The adsorption process was studied by varying different regulating parameters such as the solution pH and the initial dye and Ag2WO4 concentrations, and the results were analyzed with various isotherm and kinetic models. The mechanistic pathway for the selective adsorption of cationic dyes has been explained through zeta potential studies. Moreover, the thermal regeneration of the sorbent was possible by furnace heating at 250 °C, and the nanorods were efficient for multicyclic use. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been performed on the thermally regenerated samples to ascertain their surface purity. The Ag2WO4 nanorods have a bactericidal effect and are active against both Gram-negative and -positive bacterial strains of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis, respectively. However, the efficiency is more pronounced for Gram-positive bacteria. Thus, these sonochemically synthesized Ag2WO4 nanorods have great potential for the treatment of dye industry effluents as a promising adsorbent for cationic dyes from aqueous solution and are also useful as an antibacterial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Load dependent anomalous behavior of friction coefficient in ultra-nanocrystalline diamond (UNCD) film was investigated while sliding against SiC ball. At low and high loads, the friction coefficient was quite high. However, at intermediate loads, ultra- low friction coefficient 0.002 was measured. Raman analysis of sliding interfaces showed evolution of high fraction of a-C/sp2CC bonding at low and high loads. This invariably results in occurrences of unsaturated carbon atoms which chemically forms strong bonding. However, wear rate does not follow the trend of friction coefficient and found to increase with load. Such a behavior indicates that friction coefficient depends on the nature of chemical bonding present at sliding interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report catalyst-free direct synthesis of vertical graphene nanosheets (VGNs) on SiO2/Si and quartz substrates using microwave electron cyclotron resonance - plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The evolution of VGNs is studied systematically at different growth stages. Raman analysis as a function of growth time reveals that two different disorder-induced competing mechanisms contributing to the defect band intensity. The VGNs grown on SiO2/Si substrates predominantly consists of both vacancy-like and hopping defects. On the other hand, the VGNs grown on quartz substrates contain mainly boundary-like defects. X-ray photoemission spectroscopy studies also corroborate Raman analysis in terms of defect density and vacancy-like defects for the VGNs grown on SiO2/Si substrates. Moreover, the grown VGNs exhibit a high optical transmittance from 95% to 78% at 550 nm and the sheet resistance varies from 30 to 2.17 kΩ/sq. depending on growth time. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barium sodium borosilicate glasses containing different amounts of uranium oxides were prepared by conventional melt quench method and investigated for their structural aspects by 29 Si and 11B MAS NMR technique combined with steady-state luminescence and lifetime measurements. Based on MAS NMR studies, it is confirmed that uranium ions act as network modifier up to 15 wt% and beyond which a separate uranium containing phase is formed. From the luminescence studies, it is inferred that uranyl species is in a highly distorted environment. For more than 15 wt% uranium oxide incorporation, weaker U-O-U linkages are formed at the expense stronger U-O-Si/B linkages, as suggested by the excited state lifetime value of the uranyl species as well as red shift in emission peak maximum. For glass samples containing more than 25 wt% uranium oxides, crystalline barium uranium silicate gets phase separated from glass matrix as confirmed by XRD studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of compositions with general stoichiometry Ca1− x Zr1− x Nd2 x Ti2 O7 has been prepared by high-temperature solid-state reaction of component oxides and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and electron probe for microanalyses ( EPMA). The phase fields in CaZrTi2 O7- Nd2 Ti2 O7 system and distribution of ions in different phases have been determined. Four different phase fields, namely monoclinic zirconolite, cubic perovskite, cubic pyrochlore, and monoclinic Nd2 Ti2 O7 structure types are observed in this system. The 4M-polytype of zirconolite structure is stabilized by substitution of Nd3+ ion. The addition of Nd3+ ions form a cubic perovskite structure-type phase and thus observed in all the compositions with 0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.80. Cubic pyrochlore structure-type phase is observed as a coexisting phase in the nominal composition with 0.20 ≤ x ≤ 0.90. Only a subtle amounts of Ca2+ and Zr4+ are incorporated into the perovskite-type Nd2 Ti2 O7 structure. EPMA analyses on different coexisting phases revealed that the pyrochlore and perovskite phases have Nd3+-rich compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ca2+ homeostasis is required to maintain a delicate balance of cytosolic Ca2+ during normal and adverse growth conditions. Various Ca2+ transporters actively participate to maintain this delicate balance especially during abiotic stresses and developmental events in plants. In this study, we present a genome-wide account, detailing expression profiles, subcellular localization and functional analysis of rice Ca2+ transport elements. Exhaustive in silico data mining and analysis resulted in the identification of 81 Ca2+ transport element genes, which belong to various groups such as Ca2+- ATPases (pumps), exchangers, channels, glutamate receptor homologs and annexins. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that different Ca2+ transporters are evolutionarily conserved across different plant species. Comprehensive expression analysis by gene chip microarray and quantitative RT- PCR revealed that a substantial proportion of Ca2+ transporter genes were expressed differentially under abiotic stresses (salt, cold and drought) and reproductive developmental stages (panicle and seed) in rice. These findings suggest a possible role of rice Ca2+ transporters in abiotic stress and development triggered signaling pathways. Subcellular localization of Ca2+ transporters from different groups in Nicotiana benthamiana revealed their variable localization to different compartments, which could be their possible sites of action. Complementation of Ca2+ transport activity of K616 yeast mutant by Ca2+- ATPase Os ACA7 and involvement in salt tolerance verified its functional behavior. This study will encourage detailed characterization of potential candidate Ca2+ transporters for their functional role in planta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we report the structural phase transitions in Bi4 V2 O11 as observed from temperature-dependent Raman scattering and X-ray diffraction measurements. Four different types of highly disordered coordination polyhedra around the vanadium atoms with large dispersion of V-O bond lengths are observed in Bi4 V2 O11 at ambient temperature. The observed V-O bond lengths could be grouped into two categories, viz. shorter <1.7 Å and longer >1.7 Å. The Raman modes of Bi4 V2 O11 could be assigned to vibration of these bonds and V-O-V linkages. We could correlate the difference in degree of anharmonicity of the phonon modes with temperature to differences in V-O bond strength. The local structure of vanadium-oxygen network in Bi4 V1.8 Cu0.2 O10.7 was also obtained by similar studies. The effect of highly disordered anion sublattice in the doped compound is reflected in the broadening of the Raman modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The city of Enid collects most of its water for public distribution from groundwater. This groundwater is supplied from five wellfields—Enid, Drummond, Cleo Springs, Ringwood, and Ames—covering the Enid Terrace Aquifer, the Drummond Confined Aquifer, and the Cimarron Terrace Aquifer. This research explores nitrate distribution in the aquifer by analyzing trend graphs for the wells and estimating nitrate plumes for the wellfields. The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) requires that public water systems not exceed a nitrate concentration that is ≤ 10 mg/L because nitrate above this level causes Blue Baby Syndrome in infants. Information for this study was provided in the form of sampling data compiled by the city of Enid. This raw data was then analyzed and distilled to determine nitrate existence and extent using USEPA standards. This article presents a methodology to delineate the high nitrate plumes in five wellfields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress associated proteins (SAPs), novel A20/AN1 zinc-finger domain-containing proteins, are fast emerging as potential candidates for biotechnological approaches in order to improve abiotic stress tolerance in plants - the ultimate aim of which is crop-yield protection. Until relatively recently, such proteins had only been identified in humans, where they had been shown to be key regulators of innate immunity. Their phylogenetic relationship and recruitment of diverse protein domains reflect an architectural and mechanistic diversity. Emerging evidence suggests that SAPs may act as ubiquitin ligase, redox sensor, and regulator of gene expression during stress. Here, we evaluate the new knowledge on SAPs with a view to understand their mechanism of action. Furthermore, we set an agenda for investigating hitherto unexplored roles of these proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cicer arietinum L. (chickpea) is the third most important food legume crop. We have generated the draft sequence of a desi-type chickpea genome using next-generation sequencing platforms, bacterial artificial chromosome end sequences and a genetic map. The 520-Mb assembly covers 70% of the predicted 740-Mb genome length, and more than 80% of the gene space. Genome analysis predicts the presence of 27 571 genes and 210 Mb as repeat elements. The gene expression analysis performed using 274 million RNA-Seq reads identified several tissue-specific and stress-responsive genes. Although segmental duplicated blocks are observed, the chickpea genome does not exhibit any indication of recent whole-genome duplication. Nucleotide diversity analysis provides an assessment of a narrow genetic base within the chickpea cultivars. We have developed a resource for genetic markers by comparing the genome sequences of one wild and three cultivated chickpea genotypes. The draft genome sequence is expected to facilitate genetic enhancement and breeding to develop improved chickpea varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]