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Introduction: According to the epidemiological studies, diabetes mellitus has become a potential cause of male infertility. Knowledge regarding how diabetes mellitus interferes with the process of spermatogenesis and results in infertility needs the molecular study in the testis in diabetic condition. Enhanced oxidative stress and changes in antioxidant capacity are considered to play an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic diabetes mellitus. So, this study was established to investigate the activity of enzymatic antioxidants and oxidative stress in the testis of diabetic model rats. Material & Methods: Diabetes mellitus was induced in the rat by intraperitoneal injection of Streptozotocin. The rats were sacrificed and the dissection was done to take out the testis. The testes were processed for the activity of enzymatic antioxidants. Results: It was found that oxidative stress was increased in the testes of diabetic rats. The sperms were also affected by the chronic hyperglycemia.

The study catalogues a sum of 278 tree species belonging to 185 genera and 57 families from the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh. The family Fabaceae has been found to exhibit the highest generic and species diversity with 23 genera and 44 species. The genus Ficus of Moraceae has been observed the largest with 15 species. About 50% species exhibit deciduous nature in the forest. Out of total species occurring in the region, about 63% are native to India. Almost all tree species have some importance in one and another way for the local people. In the study area about 80 species flower in the spring, 74 in the summer, 73 in the winter and 30 in rainy season. As per the existing IUCN Red List, 24 species of the area fall under different categories. Presence of these red listed trees in the study area enhances the importance of their proper management and conservation plan.

Thermodynamic properties of liquids and liquid mixtures play very important role in understanding the nature of molecular interactions occurring in the system. In the present work density (ρ) and ultrasonic velocity (u) of the ternary system benzene + carbon tetrachloride + cyclohexane and its three constituent binaries namely, benzene + cyclohexane, carbon tetrachloride + cyclohexane and benzene + carbon tetrachloride have been measured at 298.15 K. Different thermodynamic properties of ternary and binary solutions have also been computed with the help of Flory's statistical theory (FST), hard sphere equation of state (HSE) and hole theory (HT) simultaneously. The calculated values are compared with the experimental findings and quite satisfactory results are obtained.

The mangrove lime, Merope angulata (Willd.) Swingle (Rutaceae) is a threatened mangrove associate species occurring sporadically in the tidal forests from Papua New Guinea to the east coast of India. It is an underutilized salt tolerant plant related to Citrus . We have applied AFLP and ISSR markers to estimate the extent of genetic diversity among 55 individuals of M . angulata , sampled from two natural populations (Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary) and one ex situ population (Jharkhali Mangrove Ecological Garden) in India. A combined analysis of both AFLP and ISSR markers revealed low polymorphism (42.93%) and a moderate heterozygosity and Shannon diversity index ( H = 0.393, I = 0.571) in the species. The Jaccard genetic distance among 55 accessions ranged from 0.16 to 0.74 (average 0.43). Analysis of population genetic structure using Bayesian method in STRUCTURE software identified two genetic clusters. F ST statistics and AMOVA results indicated low population differentiation with high gene flow. Haplotype indices and mismatch distributions indicated some evidence of expansion in the two natural populations. Outcrossing test revealed a predominantly out-breeding system with high outcrossing rate. The high gene flow detected among the populations indicates that M. angulata does not face any genetic drift, and hence no local genetic differentiation and population divergence. The highly fragmented state of its habitats warrants adequate measures for maintenance of genetic diversity in this species without further depletion. This is the first report on molecular analysis of genetic diversity and population structure of M . angulata from its native distributional range in India.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type-12 (SCA12) is a neurological disorder that exhibits a unique progressive tremor/ataxia syndrome induced by triplet (CAG) repeat expansion in 5’ UTR of PPP2R2B. SCA12 is one of the most prominent SCA-subtype in India and till date no appropriate disease models have been described. Our aim was to establish human iPSC derived neuronal cell lines of SCA12 and study transcriptomic level alterations induced by CAG expansion. For translational application, peripheral blood transcriptomics of SCA12 patients was also performed. Lymphoblastoid cell lines of three SCA12 patients were reprogrammed to iPSCs and then re-differentiated into pan-neuronal lineage. RNA-sequencing based comparative transcriptomics was performed for disease and control cell lineages. Microarray based transcriptomic profiling of peripheral blood of SCA12 patients was performed in a case/control (n=15/9) design. We have successfully created human neuronal cell lines of SCA12 patient as exhibited by their molecular profiling. Differential expression analysis of RNA-Seq data has shown enrichment for type-I interferon signaling and other relevant cellular processes in SCA12-neurons. At the splice-isoform level, we observed an upregulation of expanded CAG containing non-coding transcript of PPP2R2B. Peripheral blood transcriptomics analysis and targeted validation of RNA-Seq data has allowed us to identify inflammatory signatures as potential markers of molecular pathology in SCA12. Our study has allowed us to establish first iPSC based neuronal cell lines of SCA12. We have identified pro-inflammatory signatures in SCA12-neurons suggestive of a dsRNA mediated activation of interferon signaling and that corroborates with the emerging evidence of neuronal atrophy due to neuro-inflammation in common neurodegenerative diseases. This study involved development of an iPSCs derived neuronal cells of SCA12 and look through signatures of neurodegeneration by whole RNA sequencing. This model sheds light upon key role of RNA mediated induced response in Interferon signaling for neurodegeneration.

The examination of a large number of herbarium specimens combined with field observations reveal that Ficus palmata Forssk. subsp. palmata does not occur in India. The Indian plants occurring in the wild from the north-west to the south belong to F. palmata Forssk. subsp. virgata (Roxb.) Browicz. The maximum concentration of the taxon lies in northern India extending up to about 2200m altitude in the Himalaya. In southern India, the taxon is reported only in Andhra Pradesh. F. palmata subsp. virgata is notoriously variable in its entire range of distribution in almost all morphological characters. The variations are continuous and its two extreme forms, with entire leaves and lobed leaves, are connected with numerous intermediate forms. The taxon is closely allied to F. carica L., which is distributed from the Mediterranean region to Afghanistan and occurs only in cultivation in some parts of India. The paper also explains the relationship of the taxon with its closely allied species and provides a key to discriminate among them. In this paper, the taxon is described, illustrated with colour photographs and line drawings and provided with a distribution map.

Glyoxal, methylglyoxal and 3-deoxyglucosones are reactive dicarbonyl compounds, which transform free amino groups of proteins and lipoproteins macromolecule into advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). AGEs play a significant role in the pathophysiology of aging and diabetic complications because of their genotoxic effect. Glyoxal also reacts with free amino group of nucleic acids resulting in the formation of DNA–AGEs. The present study reports the genotoxicity and immunogenicity of AGEs formed by Glyoxal–Arginine–Fe 3+ (G–Arg–Fe 3+ ) system as a glycating agent. Immunogenicity of native and G–Arg–Fe 3+ –DNA was probed in female rabbits. Immunofluorescence suggests the presence of immune complex deposition in the kidney section of immunized rabbits. Spectroscopic analysis and melting temperature indicates the structural modification in the human DNA. The modified human DNA is found to be highly immunogenic, whereas unmodified form was simply non-immunogenic. This study shows the presence of auto-antibodies against G–Arg–Fe 3+ modified human DNA in the sera of diabetes type 1 and in few cases type 2 patients due to secondary complications of nephropathy. The glyco-oxidative lesions have also been detected in the lymphocyte DNA isolated from patients having type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The results show structural perturbations generating new epitopes in G–Arg–Fe 3+ –DNA rendering it pretty immunogenic.

In the present research work, the vulnerability of silicon doped polyimide by atomic oxygen present in LEO (lower earth orbit) of space was investigated. AO-exposure of a fluence of 5.4 × 101 8 atoms cm −2 significantly changed the surface resistivity properties of polyimide which is a prime factor governing spacecraft surface charging problem. This amount of fluence affected surface morphology and eroded the surface thickness as observed by SEM (scanning electron microscopy), laser beam imaging and surface profilometer study. This much exposure also increased the oxygen and silicon content on the surface as observed by XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and EDX (Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) study.

The study aimed at examining the effects of work intensification and occupational stress, experienced by employees engaged in High-Performance Work Organizations on their job involvement, job satisfaction, work family balance and psychological well-being. The study helped in understanding the underlying psychological reactions of the employees to the High Performance Work Organizations. The study was conducted on 200 employees of different levels randomly selected from identified High Performance Work Organizations. Psychometrically standardized tool were employed to assess the extent of work intensification, occupational stress, work-family conflict, job involvement, job satisfaction and psychological well-being. Statistical analyses of the data obtained through these tools of measurement revealed that participants who experienced high level of work intensification and occupational stress showed lower level of job involvement, job satisfaction, and psychological well-being, while manifested relatively more symptoms of psychological ill-health, and experienced more work-family conflicts in comparison to the employees who experienced relatively lower degree of work intensification and occupational stress. Work intensification and occupational stress correlated negatively with employees' job-attitudes, and well-being, and positively with psychological symptoms and work family conflicts. The results suggest that in High Performance Work System Organizations, high organizational performance is being achieved on the cost of satisfaction and well-being of the employees in general.

This study presents a novel approach to synthesize glycogenic gold nanoparticles (glycogenic GNps) capped with glycated products (Schiff's base, Heyns products, fructosylamine etc.). These glycogenic GNps have been found to be active against human osteosarcoma cell line (Saos-2) with an IC 50 of 0.187 mM, while the normal human embryonic lung cell line (L-132) remained unaffected up to 1 mM concentration. The size of glycogenic GNps can also be controlled by varying the time of incubation of gold solution. Glycation reactions involving a combination of fructose and HSA (Human Serum Albumin) were found to be effective in the reduction of gold to glycogenic GNps whereas glucose in combination with HSA did not result in the reduction of gold. The progress of the reaction was followed using UV–visible spectroscopy and NBT (Nitroblue tetrazolium) assay. The glycogenic GNps were found to be spherical in shape with an average size of 24.3 nm, in a stable emulsion. These GNps were characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy, zeta potential analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Experiments are performed to investigate and compare the characteristics of stable parallel-plate and planar-surface dielectric barrier discharge in helium gas at atmospheric pressure. The evolution of applied electric field profile and the discharge initiation processes are found quite different for both electrode geometries. Further discharge voltage, discharge current, power densities etc. are compared. The differences of basic plasma properties are presented for both the electrode configurations.

Skin tribology and contact mechanics have emerged as a recent topic of research, intended to unveil the behavior of human skin. There have been variegated efforts to calculate the coefficient of friction with respect to various parameters such as sliding speed, normal load, and surface roughness. Wood and other timber products have their importance considering the ergonomically designs that have gained importance nowadays. This article shows the relation between normal load, average sliding speed and coefficient of friction (μ) of various types of woods (Rosewood, Sunmica, Teak wood and Pine wood). An experimental investigation is conducted to understand frictional behavior between human skin and different types of woods. Wooden material has been tested with the normal load having the range of 6.5N to 13N. The variation of μ has been remarked as μrosewood>μpine>μteak>μsunmica. Experimental observation shows that the rosewood has the highest COF which suggests its application where grip and strength of high order are required.With decreasing sliding speed, the relation between normal load and μ become more significant.

Iron (Fe) impurity behaviour in ADITYA tokamak plasma has been studied using Fe spectral line emissions in the vacuum ultra violet (VUV) wavelength range. A VUV survey spectrometer has been utilized to record spectral lines at 28.41 nm from Fe14+ , and 33.54 nm and 36.08 nm from Fe15+ . It has been observed that the intensities of the Fe emissions decrease with an increase in plasma electron density. The observed emission and the intensity ratio of Fe14+ and Fe15+ ions from two discharges having relatively low and high plasma density are modelled using an impurity transport code. It is found that the observed data could be modelled using the same ratio of the convective velocity to the diffusion coefficient D profile, but with two different Fe concentrations. The ratio varies from the value of − 0.22 m−1 at the plasma normalized radius to a maximum value of − 0.35 m−1 at . The obtained diffusion coefficient value at the plasma core region is explained in terms of neo-classical transport, indicating that Fe impurity transport follows the same behaviour in the core plasma of the ADITYA tokamak.

Sol-gel autocombustion technique was used to synthesized composites of barium hexaferrites (BaM) and calcium copper titanate (CCTO) with chemical composition Ba1−xCoxFe12−x−yDyxLayO19 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and y = 0.0, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6) and Ca1-xErxCu3Ti4−yMnyO12 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and y = 0.0, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6) respectively. The BaM/CCTO composites exhibit a single crystalline phases of both BaM and CCTO, this observation is supported by Raman spectroscopy. Characteristics peaks of both BaM and CCTO were observed at 439 and 592 cm−1; these peaks give a hint on the formation of both BaM and CCTO phase in the composites. Morphology analysis show that the grains of the BaM nanoparticles exhibit uneven distribution with morphology close to hexagonal structure while the CCTO microparticles shows cubic-like grains with homogenous distribution and the stoichiometry of the prepared composites was also observed. Lattice fringes of BaM nanoparticles and CCTO microparticles with sizes of 0.2629 and 0.2613 nm corresponding to (1 1 4) and (2 2 0) hkl planes respectively have been observed. The observed band-gap increases with increase in crystallite size. The coercivity increases as a result of the presence of CCTO phase. BaMCCTO4 composite shows maximum reflection loss (RL) of −27.9 dB (99.83% absorption) at 16.5 GHz and matching thickness of 3 mm with effective absorption (RL 20 dB) bandwidth of 4.2 GHz. Keywords: Permittivity, Permeability, Reflection loss, Shielding effectiveness, Band gap

Firefighting is an important as well as a dangerous occupation. A firefighter must be able to get to the fire quickly and safely so as to prevent further damage and reduces fatalities. Technology has bridged the gap between firefighting and machines allowing for a more efficient and effective method of firefighting. Robots can be used in many applications in industries, military and domestic applications. One of the major uses of Robots is an asset to human beings. Whether it is any kind of hazardous situations like a fire breaking out or a place full of landmines, Robots can easily work out a way out of these problems. So let us discuss a Firefighting Robot. There are many possibilities a fire can start in an industry or in any remote area. For example, in cotton mills, garments and fuel storages, electric leakages can lead to huge damage. Also in a worst-case scenario, causing heavy losses not only financially but also destroying areas surrounding it. Robotics is the emerging solution to protect human lives and their wealth and surroundings. The aim here is to design a FIREFIGHTING ROBOT using embedded system. A robot capable of fighting a simulated household fire will be designed and built. It must be able to autonomously navigate through a modelled floor plan while actively scanning for a flame.

Artemisinin a natural sesquiterpenoid isolated from Artemisia annua, is of great interest in the treatment of malaria. In this study important artemisinin and related metabolites were profiled throughout the defined developmental period by utilizing efficient reversed-phase HPLC method with UV detection in two elite varieties CIM-Arogya and Jeevan raksha of Artemisa annua L. Further to gain insight in to the regulation of artemisinin biosynthesis and accumulation during plant ontogeny, expression profiling of eight genes of artemisinin biosynthetic pathway were performed in both the varieties. We found higher expression of all transcripts of artemisinin biosynthetic pathway during plant ontogeny. High level of up regulation of these genes during plant ontogeny was associated with higher level of secondary metabolite content. Relative dynamics of artemisinin metabolites followed an increasing pattern till the month of November. A. annua CIM-Arogya variety had higher accumulation mainly in upper leaves. Interestingly, dihydroartemisinic acid accumulation was at variance with that of artemisinin and arteannuin B, suggesting later months of development preferred equilibrium towards artemisinin accumulation mediated through uncharacterized catalytic transformation. This behavioural dynamics might have some eco-physiological role to play for the plant.

Bifurcation angioplasty using two stent strategies is always challenging in the Catheterization laboratory to perform and thus, many randomized control trials of bifurcation angioplasty comparing two stent versus single stent have shown provisional angioplasty as a simple strategy with low major adverse cardiac events [MACE] rates. But bifurcation lesions with significant side branch lesions needs a different strategy and often require two stent strategies. Different complex techniques of two stent techniques are described but they are complex to perform with high rate of acute stent thrombosis and major adverse cardiac events [MACE] rate. We describe two cases of bifurcation lesion with the significant side branch disease for which we performed modified crush technique [Sleeve technique] which is technically simple to perform with least major adverse cardiac events [MACE] rate.

Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. of family Nyctaginaceae is a known traditional medicinal plant and has been used in the treatment of many free radical mediated diseases. Excessive formation of free radicals, either reactive oxygen species (ROS) or reactive nitrogen species (RNS) is responsible for damaging various biomolecules like DNA, lipids and proteins. The present investigation was initially carried out to explore the possible link between antioxidant, oxidative DNA damage protective and α-amylase inhibitory property of B. diffusa root extract and their bioactive fraction. Our results illustrated an enhanced DPPH radical scavenging activity/antioxidant power of methanol root extract (IC50250μg/ml). In addition, the methanol root extract also showed better oxidative DNA damage protective activity and α-amylase inhibitory property than ethanol and aqueous root extract. Phytochemical screening of B. diffusa ethanol and methanol root extract showed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides and terpenoids in large amount. By means of repetitive preparatory TLC and HPLC the potent antioxidant and α-amylase inhibitory fraction was isolated from methanol root extract. Our results illustrated that DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50

Aims: We carried out this study for evaluating the normal anatomy trunk and prevalence of anatomical variations of celiac trunk in the North Indian population. Materials and methods: Computerized tomographic images of 50 North Indian subjects, obtained from the Department of Radiodiagnosis, King George's Medical University, were retrospectively analyzed. The anatomy of the celiac trunk was studied using dynamic scans. Results: A variation in the site of origin of celiac trunk was observed in about 55% cases. The length and dimensions of the trunk also displayed a wide range of variation. Conclusion: Anatomic variations of the celiac trunk as observed by us may become important in patients undergoing diagnostic angiography for gastrointestinal bleeding or prior to an operative procedure. Recognition of variations would enable clinicians to distinguish features which merit further investigations or treatment from those which do not.

In view of the difficulties in stand volume estimation in natural forests, we derived real form factors and models for volume estimation in these types of forest ecosystems, using Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary as a case study. Tree growth data were obtained for all trees (dbh >10 cm) in 4 plots (25 × 25 m) randomly located in each of three strata selected in the forest. The form factor calculated for the stand was 0.42 and a range of 0.42–0.57 was estimated for selected species (density >10). The parameters of model variables were consistent with general growth trends of trees and each was statistically significant. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the observed and predicted volumes for all models and there was very high correlation between observed and predicted volumes. The output of the performance statistics and the logical signs of the regression coefficients of the models demonstrated that they are useful for volume estimation with minimal error. Plotting the biases with respect to considerable regressor variables showed no meaningful and evident trend of bias values along with the independent variables. This showed that the models did not violate regression assumptions and there were no heteroscedacity or multiculnarity problems. We recommend use of the form factors and models in this ecosystem and in similar ones for stand and tree volume estimation.

Two body potential model, which consists of long-range Coulombic interactions, van der Waals (vdW) interaction, and short-range overlap repulsive interaction effective up to second neighbour ions, has been used to explorer the structural and elastic properties of SrX (X = O, S, Se and Te). The van der Waals coefficients, different hardness and range parameters for both the phases have been incorporated to achieve most accurate results. It is found that there is a good agreement between calculated results and available experimental results on phase transition pressure and volume collapse.

Morphological and taxonomic features of dispersed sterile scale leaves collected from the Barakar Formation of Pench, Kanhan and Pathakhera coalfields of Satpura Gondwana Basin, Madhya Pradesh are described. The scale leaves are normally described as morphological types without their assignment to taxonomic status. Due to this practice, the identity and significance of the scale leaves have gone astray in the Glossopteris flora. The presence of large number of sterile scale leaves with different morphological features in the present assemblage has helped to discuss their structure, nature and affinity. The scale leaves have been assigned to different genera and species namely Pantolepis indica gen. et sp. nov., Penchiolepis gondwanensis gen. et sp. nov., Penchiolepis indica sp. nov., Surangelepis ambarai gen. et sp. nov., Surangelepis elongatus sp. nov. and Utkaliolepis indica Tiwari et al. 2009.

CR-39 polymer samples were irradiated with γ-irradiation up to dose ranging from 500 to 2000 kGy. The virgin and γ-irradiated polymer samples were investigated using UV–visible spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. In the present work, the Urbach energy was calculated using the Urbach edge method. Also, the direct and indirect energy band gaps in virgin and γ-irradiated CR-39 polymer samples were calculated. The values of indirect energy band gap were found to be lower than the corresponding values of direct energy band gap. The decrease in the optical energy band gap with increasing γ-irradiation dose was discussed on the basis of γ-irradiation-induced modifications in CR-39 polymer. The correlation between optical energy band gap and the number of carbon atoms in a cluster with modified Tauc's equation was also discussed. The FTIR spectra show considerable changes due to γ-irradiation, indicating that the detector is not chemically stable.

A multilayer thin film structure of ten alternate Ta and Si layers with approximately 18 nm thickness for the combined (Ta + Si) layer, was evaluated to explore the individual layer thickness and the interface mixing behavior using different surface characterization techniques like Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (TOFSIMS), X-ray Reflectometry (XRR) and Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM). These results were compared with measurements performed earlier using cross section Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The TOFSIMS depth profile results indicate the individual thickness of Si and Ta layers to be 8.1 nm and 5.9 nm respectively which are less than the corresponding actual thickness measured by cross section TEM as 10.5 nm and 7.5 nm. The difference in thickness measurement has been explained in the light of ion bombardment induced atomic mixing in the interface during sputter depth profiling. A scanning electron micrograph shows the actual crater and its edges created due to the sputtering including the multilayer for real view of the structure. The XRR observations however reveal better agreement with the cross section TEM data, both being non-destructive in nature. Attempts were made to characterize the multilayer using KPFM technique which clearly elucidated the grating type cross section of the structure.

The UV–Visible absorption spectra of virgin and high dose gamma irradiated (up to 2000 kGy) UHMWPE polymer have been studied by using UV–Visible spectrophotometer (JASCO, V-570). The existence of the peaks, their shifting and broadening as a result of gamma irradiation has been observed. In the present work the Urbach energy is calculated by using Urbach edge method. Also the direct and indirect energy band gap in virgin and gamma irradiated UHMWPE polymer has been calculated. The values of indirect energy band gap have been found to be lower than the corresponding values of direct energy band gap. A decrease in the optical energy band gap with increasing gamma irradiation has been discussed on the basis of gamma-irradiation-induced modification in the UHMWPE polymer. The correlation between optical energy band gap and the number of carbon atoms in a cluster with modified Tauc’s equation has been discussed in this polymer. We have also observed the color formation which became more and more prominent with increasing dose and at the highest dose the fully transparent sample became completely opaque. Looking at the trend of the absorption curve this polymer can be used as a very good dosimeter for the gamma ray irradiation.

The structural and optical properties of virgin and gamma rays irradiation on aromatic polymers (PET, PES and Kapton) at various doses varying from 16 to 300kGy. The optical and Structural studies have been observed by using UV-VIS Spectroscopy and Powder X- Ray Diffration techniques. The diffraction pattern of virgin samples shows that polymers are semi crystalline in nature. But due to irradiation, the overall crystalline peak intensity and crystallite size is found to be increased with increasing dose. The UV-Visible absorption spectra show the existence of the maximum absorption, their shifting and broadening as a result of gamma irradiation has been discussed. Finally the value of direct and indirect band gap in virgin and gamma irradiated on aromatic polymers has been decreased.

A search for a heavy gauge boson W' has been conducted by the CMS experiment at the LHC in the decay channel with an electron and large transverse energy imbalance, using proton-proton collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 36 inverse picobarns. No excess above standard model expectations is seen in the transverse mass distribution of the electron-(missing E_T) system. Assuming standard-model-like couplings and decay branching fractions, a W' boson with a mass less than 1.36 TeV/c^2 is excluded at 95% confidence level.

The surface morphology, chemical, optical, and structural response of 1.25 MeV gamma rays irradiation at various doses ranging from 16 to 300 kGy on Kapton polymer samples were studied by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet/visible absorption (UV/VIS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The morphology study shows the blisters formation on the Kapton polymer surface due to 1.25 MeV gamma rays irradiation at ambient temperature. This observation provides a basis for the quantitative evaluation of FTIR results obtained for thermally stable polymer on the chemical bond deterioration with increasing gamma irradiation. The blistering mechanism is correlated with the internal gases (CO, H2) released due to gamma radiation induced damages. The recorded UV–VIS spectrum shows a maximum absorption around the wavelength 540 nm. However, the nature of the spectra does not change due to gamma irradiation but a shift in absorption edge towards the higher wavelength side has been observed with increasing dose. The optical data shows an increase in the calculated band gap at the highest dose. The diffraction pattern of virgin sample shows that polymer is semicrystalline, but due to irradiation, a decrease in the peak intensity and FWHM and an increase in the crystallite size at the highest dose level of 300 kGy have been observed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011

The morphological and cuticular features of well-preserved leaves of Glossopteris stenoneura Feistmantel collected from Barakar Formation of Churulia area, Raniganj Coalfield are analyzed. The study indicates that spathulate shaped leaves are distinct in having narrow-elongate trapezoidal meshes near the midrib and short, narrow meshes near the margin of leaves. Cuticle is amphistomatic, the surface of upper cuticle characteristically shows fine striations over the vein area. Stomata are anomocytic, ovalelongate with cutinized guard cells. Subsidiary cells of lower cuticle demonstrate papillae overhanging stomata.

The present paper deals with the plant megafossil assemblage from the Maitur Formation, the lower part of Panchet Group of rocks, unconformably overlain by coal bearing Raniganj Formation in Raniganj Coalfield, West Bengal. The plant fossils are collected from two localities exposed in Nonia Nala Section near Asansol, Burdwan District, West Bengal. The assemblages are represented by the typical elements of Glossopteris flora, viz. Trizygia speciosa, Neomariopteris hughesii. N. lobifolia, Dichotomopteris lindleyii, D. ovata, Glossopteris indica, G. tenuifolia, G. emarginata, G. angustifolia. G conspicua, G. intermedia, G. retifera, G. gopadensis, G. taeniensis, Glossopteris sp. cf. G. dhenkanalensis, one new species G. burdwanensis sp. nov., glossopterid scale-leaves and seed-like body. The age of Maitur Formation has been assigned to Early Triassic but the plant fossil assemblages are comparable with the Late Permian plant fossils of Kamthi, Pachhwara and Bijori formations in having narrow leaf forms of Glossopteris. The investigation supports the view that there is no floral break at the Raniganj-Panchet Boundary and flora of Maitur Formation in all probability represents the ultimate stage of Glossopteris flora in Raniganj Coalfield before the onset of Early Triassic Dicroidium flora in Deoli/Hirapur Formation belonging to upper part of Panchet Sequence in Raniganj Coalfield, West Bengal.

Well preserved leaves discovered from the Early Permian sequence of Barakar Formation of Pench Valley Coalfield, Satpura Gondwana Basin demonstrate the earliest occurrence of taeniopteroid leaves in Lower Gondwana formations. Such leaves are mostly recorded from the Late Permian sequence of Raniganj Formation and assigned to different genera, Taeniopteris Brongniart, Macrotaeniopteris Schimper and Rhabdotaenia Pant. The review of all the known records, the examination of type and figured specimens and present study indicate that plausibly all the taeniopteroid leaves of Lower Gondwana belong to the genus Rhabdotaenia Pant (1958) and the species, Rhabdotaenia danaeoides (Royle) Pant, Rhabdotaenia harkini Pant and Rhabdotaenia fibrosa Pant are characterized by large sized leaves whereas new species Rhabdotaenia pantii sp. nov. is instituted for small size-obovate shaped leaves discovered from the New Sethia open cast mine of Pench Valley Coalfield, Madhya Pradesh.

Plasma polymerized thin film of conducting polypyrrole were deposited at room temperature by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition method using pyrrole monomer as precursor. The radio frequency (RF: 13.56 MHz, power supply: 30 W) was applied at constant argon gas pressure for the formation of plasma. The as grown thin films of polypyrrole have been characterized by ellipsometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–vis spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). UV–vis spectra showed the optical energy band gap of 2.3 eV. XRD pattern of plasma polymerized polypyrrole has revealed a clear peak at inter-planer separation of 0.687 nm. It was also noticed by HRTEM analysis that the distinguished reflection at d = 0.687 nm has a broadening effect that may be correlated with the crystallinity of the material.

Doping at nanoscale and modification of nanocrystal either by binding or interaction is possible if the morphology of the nanocrystal and the properties of the dopant present in the chemical solution are exactly known [30] , [31] . In other words, the binding energy of the impurity/dopant with respect to the surface of the host lattice, the bonding character and the coordination environment have role to affect the microstructure, grain boundary distribution, surface, optical and photo-catalytic properties of doped materials. In view of this, we adopted a modified sol–gel technique, where dopants (Ag and Ni) are present in the chemical solution for the effective doping in the host matrix. However, the literature reports generally involves higher doping concentrations of these ions, but the novelty of the present work lies in the case specific study of a single and nominal doping concentrations of 0.02 wt.% Ag and Ni in TiO2, which has led to unusual changes with respect to its microstructure, grain boundary distribution, pore size distribution and surface properties, optical and photo-catalytic activity towards complete degradation of organic pollutant dye within few minutes of visible and UV light irradiation.

The low frequency ionization waves in helium surface barrier discharge at atmospheric pressure are reported. Increase in applied voltage increases wave frequency. Further the coherent oscillation excited at low voltage becomes turbulent at high voltage and finally disappears to form uniform discharge. The dispersion relation of such ionization waves is discussed.

The high luminous efficacy of plasma display demands high luminance at reduced discharge power. The discharge power can be reduced by several steps, one of them being reduction of gas breakdown voltage. In this paper, improved discharge cell structures are introduced that favor reduction of the gas breakdown voltage. The simulated electric field profiles for these structures indicate the low voltage requirement with increased electric field concentration in the discharge gap. The experimental measurements of breakdown voltage and discharge delay time in the test panels also support the simulation results. The important features of these discharge cell structures are discussed.

Sr0.7Al0.3Fe11.4Mn0.6O19 was synthesized by sol-gel technique and sintered at varying temperatures 750 °C, 850 °C, 950 °C and 1050 °C for 5 hours. We investigate the role of heat-treatment on the structural, magnetic and optical properties of Al-Mn doped strontium hexaferrite. XRD analysis indicates the formation of M-type hexaferrites with some traces of α-Fe2O3. The presence of two prominent peaks between 400 cm-1 and 600 cm-1 in the spectra of FTIR gives the possibility of the emergence of M-type hexagonal ferrites. FESEM micrograph shows that the grains of the prepared sample possess Plate-like hexagonal structure. EDX spectra confirmed the stoichiometry of the prepared sample. Recrystallization of the synthesized sample and formation temperature of 650 °C is observed in TGA analysis. Variation of the sintering temperature results in decrease of the band gap. Magnetic parameters were calculated from the M-H loop obtained from vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). High value of coercivity (6750 Oe) is observed at 850 °C. Remanent and saturation magnetization decreases with increase heat-treatment temperature. The synthesized sample may be useful in perpendicular recording medium (PRM) and high frequency application.

Aim of the study The present study aims to evaluate the in vivo antimalarial potential of the leaf extract of Gomphostemma niveum and two new compounds; named as Gomphostenin (GN–6) and acetyl Gomphostenin (GN–10) isolated and purified from this plant against Plasmodium berghei in mice. Materials and methods The blood schizontocidal activity was performed in early infection of Plasmodium berghei and also in established infection of Plasmodium berghei . The mice were orally administrated with various doses of water and chloroform extracts of leaves of Gomphostemma niveum (GN–W and GN–C, 300, 400 and 500 mg/kg/day), GN–6 and GN–10 (50, 100, 150 and 200 mg/kg/day). Chloroquine (8 mg/kg) used as a positive control, while an equal volume of saline plus 0.5% tween-80 was used as a negative control. Results GN–W, GN–C and pure compounds (GN–6 and GN–10) produced a dose dependent chemosuppression effect at various dose levels. GN–10 exhibited highest percent of chemosuppression i.e. 92.65% at a dose level of 200 mg/kg/day. In case of curative test, the survival period of the parasitized infected mice was significantly prolonged at 200 mg/kg dose of GN–10. Conclusions The studies have indicated that clerodane class of diterpenes GN–6 and GN–10 certainly holds great promise for malaria control and will be useful in antimalarial chemotherapy.

Uniform and transparent thin films of Zn1 − xCoxO (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.10) were fabricated by sol–gel spin coating technique. Co addition up to x = 0.075, led to refinement in structure and improvement in film quality together with average grain size reduction from 17 nm in undoped ZnO to 15 nm with x = 0.05 and 12 nm with x = 0.10 Co additions. For x ≥ 0.035, CoO (cubic) was detected as the secondary phase. Influence of Co addition on the volume fraction of grain boundaries has been interpreted. Increase in Co content in the range 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.10 led to quenching of near-band edge and blue emissions, decrease in band gap energy (Eg) from 3.36 eV to 3.26 eV, decrease in film thickness and refractive index and an increase in extinction coefficient of Zn1 − xCoxO thin films. The change in nature of stress from compressive to tensile with lower to higher doping of Co is corroborative with the angular peak shift of (002) plane of ZnO lattice. An overall increase in microhardness of Zn1 − xCoxO thin films up to x = 0.05 is attributed to change in microstructure and evolution of secondary phase and as the secondary phase separates out the overall stress is released leading to lowering of hardness after this concentration. Hall–Petch behavior is also studied and found to obey until x = 0.05, however, considerable deviation after this dopant concentration is attributed to the increase in the volume fraction of grain boundaries, which results from the secondary phase separation from this dopant concentration.

In this paper, we report the experimental findings for improving the luminance and luminance efficacy in an AC plasma display panel using a new sustain waveform. The original waveform consists of bipolar sustain pulses of equal amplitudes and widths on both the sustain and scan electrodes. The proposed waveform modifies the pulse width and amplitude of the conventional bipolar voltage pulses. On reducing the pulse width of one of the applied sustains pulse; we observe the increase in luminance by 17% and luminance efficacy by 36% which is independent of the pulse polarity. The application of negative wider pulse (2.1 μs) of high amplitude (180 V) and positive shorter pulse (0.5 μs) of low amplitude (30 V) yields additive enhancement of the luminance by 26% and luminance efficacy by 19%. This new sustain waveform can be used to develop new generation high efficacy plasma displays.