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• Through various mechanisms root exudates released by plant roots. • Root exudates have efficacy to perform a significant role in enhancing stress tolerance. • Root exudates adjust and control the availability of water and nutrients in the soil. Plants are sessile organisms that are constantly dealing with different abiotic and biotic stresses such as salinity, drought, chilling, high temperature, flooding; pathogen or pest infections which can severely affect their growth and productivity. To cope up with these stressful conditions, plants have developed a complex network of adaptive mechanisms among which the production of root exudates is a key mechanism. Exudates that are secreted through the plant roots are complex mixtures of organic compounds (primary, secondary metabolites, ions and enzymes, etc.). The process of secretion of root exudates through the plasma membrane of root cells and the transporters involved have been studied in detail. In recent years many findings have also shown the protective potential of root exudates in enhancing plant tolerance to abiotic stresses and resistance against biotic stresses. Root exudates can modulate the physical and chemical properties of soil, regulate water and nutrient availability, and interact with microorganisms to enhance plant stress tolerance. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in understanding the interaction between plants and the soil environment mediated by root exudates. This article also highlights the changes induced in the metabolic profiles of plants leading to an altered exudation process under stress conditions to protect the plants. The mechanisms underlying the safeguarding effect of root exudates during stresses are also discussed and evaluated. Understanding these mechanisms can provide new opportunities to develop new crop varieties that are more resilient to different stress factors and can contribute to global food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional flexible piezo-resonators are of vital interest for designing micro-electrometrical system (MEMS) based high-frequency wearable devices. The magnetoelectric (ME) heterostructure comprising highly magnetostrictive Ni–Mn–In and piezoelectric AlN films was fabricated over flexible substrates to develop the bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonator. The BAW resonators fabricated over Ni and Kapton substrates show the fundamental resonance at ∼5.535 and 5.400 GHz, respectively. The comparative study of frequency tuning for both resonators has been executed in the presence of a dc magnetic field. A larger frequency shift ( Δ f R ) of ∼540 MHz was detected at 1200 Oe for a device fabricated over Ni with a sensitivity of ∼5.4 Hz/nT. However, it is 360 MHz in the case of Kapton, with a sensitivity of ∼3.0 Hz/nT. Moreover, the BAW resonator over the magnetostrictive Ni substrate shows a higher tunability of ∼11.4% compared to ∼8.5% for the resonator fabricated over non-magnetostrictive Kapton. The equivalent modified Butterworth–Van Dyke circuit parameters have been extracted by fitting the experimental data with and without an external magnetic field using advanced design system. The effect of an external magnetic field has been thoroughly investigated on device parameters, such as electromechanical coupling coefficient (K2), acoustic velocity, quality factor (Q), and figure of merit. The anisotropic functionality of the fabricated resonator has been studied by measuring the tunability of the resonator in parallel and perpendicular magnetic fields. The present study motivates the incorporation of flexible magnetostrictive substrates for futuristic multifunctional MEMS magnetic field sensor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Around 2.78% of the population in our nation cannot speak (dump). The fundamental way that two people engage is through communication. Since ancient times, people have used speech to interact with one another. Although science and technology have added comfort to human life, there are still some who are less fortunate who are battling to discover a solution that would make communication for them simpler. People who have trouble speaking utilise sign language that is based on hand movements. This programme enables the blind and deaf to interact with seeing people despite their communication challenges. This study suggested a novel method of FFNN (Feed Forward Neural Network) prototype that can automatically recognise sign language to assist normal individuals in more effective communication with those who are hearing, speech, or visually challenged. This system identified of the hand signal feature point extraction given with Feed Forward point extraction given with Feed Forward neural network. Hand Gesture Recognition with Voice Process system using HMM (Hidden Markov model) is used to provide the communication for dump people and the normal people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, Polarized Raman spectroscopy is being used to determine and validate the crystallographic orientations of Zinc blend crystals. Two crystals of GaAs and ZnTe oriented along (112) are used for Polarized Raman spectroscopic study. To realize the different angles (α) of the in-plane rotation along the surface normal, and the excitation laser polarization is fixed vertically and the sample is rotated. At the scattering side another polarizer is used to get different angles (β) of polarization. Raman spectroscopic technique has been used to study crystallographic plane identification by measuring the Raman scattered intensity using the variation in α and β angles of GaAs crystals while fixing the reference point in the crystal. GaAs crystal showed a different intensity pattern which is fitted by transformation matrix relation to identify the crystallographic plane direction. In ZnTe crystal due to resonance Raman scattering at room temperature and multi-phonon feature with green laser excitation 1LO phonon intensity does not show any variation by varying (α) rotation while rotating the angle at scattering side polarizer (β), LO intensity variation follows the cosine square law. In Resonant and Non-resonant Raman scattering by varying the temperature and laser excitation, the results of ZnTe are found to be different as compared to GaAs. As a result, Polarized Raman spectroscopic study can be done only in non-resonant Raman scattering perhaps using below-band gap excitation to avoid LO multi-phonon scattering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work highlights the influence of surface properties, on the characteristics of InAlN/GaN based high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) structures grown on the SiC substrate by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy. The growth parameters, i.e., reactor pressure and V/III ratio were tuned to improve the morphological and two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) characteristics of the HEMT structure. It was found that V/III ratio plays a significant role in improving surface morphology and 2DEG properties without altering average indium composition. It was also found that 2DEG properties are highly sensitive to surface morphology and its features. The step flow smooth surface morphology with very low surface and interface roughness was observed in optimized lattice-matched InAlN/GaN HEMT structures. The sheet resistance of ∼170 Ω/sq with good 2DEG concentration (∼2.4 × 1013 cm−2) and 2DEG mobility (∼1500 cm2/V s) was achieved in the optimized lattice-matched InAlN/GaN HEMT structure. A comparison between different barrier-based HEMT structures, i.e., lattice-matched InAlN/GaN and strained AlGaN/GaN, was also discussed. Their structural, electrical, morphological, and interfacial characteristics were compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A patient presenting with a history of restricted mouth opening and deflection of the mandible after a prolonged dental procedure raises a suspicion of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) due to its estimated high prevalence of 29%. Muscle relaxants and routine active physiotherapy established normal range of movement and pain reduction was achieved through TENS therapy and analgesics. However, the non-subsidence of deflection prompted an initial suspicion of TMD which was overturned by MRI. The MRI evaluation revealed left side medial pterygoid abscess. It is imperative to understand that despite strong history and relevant clinical features, for the definitive diagnosis radiographic evaluation is highly contributory. Misdiagnosing TMD due to its similar presentation can have significant implications for the patient’s well-being and quality of life. The clinical features of medial pterygoid abscess including restricted mouth opening and pain can be similar to that of TMD. These abscesses are most commonly caused by odontogenic infections but can also occur as a result of septic inferior alveolar nerve block techniques. Limited literature reports of pterygoid space abscess have been described, but intramuscular and medial pterygoid abscess is an absolute rarity. Causal relationship to septic inferior alveolar nerve block further makes this case report an interesting read. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaporins are important transmembrane channel proteins required for the transport of water and nutrients to maintain plant water relations and its survival. The aquaporins have a characteristic structure and are divided into 5 distinct isoforms such as plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIP), tonoplast intrinsic protein (TIP), small basic intrinsic protein (SIP), nodulin-26 like intrinsic protein (NIP) and X intrinsic proteins (XIP). Aquaporins conducts transcellular movement of water molecules across the cell and organelles membranes. Apart from playing key role in maintaining water level inside the plant system it is also involved in transporting small neutral molecules including glycerol, urea, metalloids, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. In this way it regulates ionic homeostasis and water levels during environmental stresses including drought, chilling, salinity, and heavy metal toxicity and helps in providing tolerance toward the stress. It also plays a key role in maintaining the carbon and nitrogen level in the cell, transporting the key regulatory molecules and phytohormones mediated tolerance to plants. Scientist has also targeted aquaporins in order to develop stress tolerant transgenic species having improved functioning of aquaporins. Increase of water retention capability and usage efficiency by the plants represents the major research areas to confer abiotic stress tolerance. This review presents a comprehensive studies and intensive ongoing research to understand the diverse role of aquaporins in ensuring normal growth and development of plants. Current aspects of aquaporins and its isoforms in relation to its structure, function and regulation in different plant species have been highlighted. Further the potential of aquaporins in promoting plant survival during wide ranges of environmental situations is also emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: About 10% of Indians have common mental disorders (CMDs) which include depression and anxiety. These disorders are common in women, which not only impacts on their quality of life but also their family members. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of CMDs, and factors associated with them among women residing in coastal Karnataka. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 980 women aged between 18 and 60 years from 2019 to 2021. Women were administered a baseline questionnaire along with Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalised Anxiety Disorder questionnaire-7 (GAD-7) and Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale-4 (PSS-4). Data were collected using Epi-info and were analysed using SPSS version 15.0. Association between CMDs and socio-demographic, reproductive health and behavioural factors were expressed as crude and adjusted odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The prevalence of CMDs among women was 5.7%, with 4.6% having depression and 3.37% with anxiety disorders. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that residing in urban areas (OR = 2.15; 95% CI:1.10–4.17), having a chronic illness (OR = 2.38; 95% CI:1.14–4.97), history of recent bereavement in the family (OR = 2.20; 95% CI:1.02–4.75), early marriage (OR = 2.63; 95% CI:1.09–6.33), history of abortion (OR = 2.89; 95% CI:1.42–5.92), and exposure to domestic violence (OR = 3.08; 95% CI:1.14–8.33) were significantly correlated with CMDs in this sample. Conclusions: The study revealed that CMDs were prevalent among the surveyed women, which calls for routine screening of women for CMDs in primary care settings for early identification and appropriate interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most frequently observed forms of beta casein (β-Cn) in dairy cattle are A1 and A2. A2 β-Cn is recognized as the original β-Cn protein because it existed before a mutation caused the appearance of A1 β-Cn in European cattle (Bos taurus) a few thousand years ago. In cattle, beta-casein (CSN2) gene is highly polymorphic with at least 13 genetic variants known until now. Methods: Research work was carried out on 50 Malvi and 50 Nimari, 50 Sahiwal and 50 H F Cross bred cow. In present research work the PCR amplicons of 121bp were digested by restriction endonuclease enzyme DdeI, which recognizes G^AATTC sites. Present association study of polymorphic variants’ showed that the presence of no restriction sites for the enzyme DdeI in both Malvi and Nimari. So one band of 121bp was observed on the gel and such genotype was designated as A2A2 type. Whereas in Sahiwal and H F Crossbred showed two type of genotypes A1A2 and A2A2. Result: The result of RFLP revealed that the gene and genotypic frequencies of β-casein (CSN2) gene for A2A2 was 1.00 for both Malvi and Nimari breed of cattle but 0.00, 0.30 and 0.70 in Sahiwal and 0.00, 0.64 and 0.36 in HF crossbred cattle, respectively. Association study showed that the lactose per cent was significantly higher in Nimari as compared to Malvi and Sahiwal. Among all the four breeds of cattle, significantly lower SNF (%) and density was noticed in Malvi breed of cattle for A2A2 genotype compared to remaining three breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu–CuO and Cu–CuO–ZnO hybrid nanostructures were fabricated by wet chemical route. The structural and morphological properties of the synthesized nanomaterials were well characterized by Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy while their optical and photocatalytic parameters were studied by using UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performance of Cu–CuO–ZnO hybrid nanostructures and Cu–CuO hybrid nanostructures were examined via photocatalytic decomposition of methylene blue and methyl orange dyes in water whereas catalytic properties of the synthesized hybrid nanostructures were examined through reductive transformation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in water. The prepared nanostructures of Cu–CuO–ZnO completely decomposed methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) in 54 and 45 min, respectively while catalytic decay of 4-NP was achieved in just 2 min using Cu–CuO nanohybrids. The developed Cu–CuO and Cu–CuO–ZnO hybrid nanostructures are extremely capable for the practical and innovative photocatalytic decomposition of waste at large scale as well as catalytic reduction of toxic chemicals from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of ZnO buffer layer on the electrical properties of PbZrTiO3/BiFeO3 (PZT/BFO) multilayers has been reported. For this, PZT/BFO multilayers were spin-coated with and without ZnO buffer layer on platinized silicon wafers. X-ray diffraction results of both the films showed polycrystalline phase pure perovskite structure. Both the films show a dense and homogeneous grain structure. The electric properties of the films were measured. The ZnO buffered multilayer thin film showed ∼3 times improvement in remnant polarization compared to the multilayer thin film with no buffer. The buffered samples were found to have higher dielectric constant (1000 at 100 Hz) compared to that of sample (580 at 100 Hz)) with no buffer. Dielectric constants of both the films were found to be ∼30% tunable at 5 V. The buffered film also showed low leakage current density and higher dielectric breakdown compared to the multilayer thin film without buffer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research work was carried out on 50 Malvi and 50 Nimari breed of cattle in the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding of College of Veterinary Science and A.H Jabalpur. In present research work the PCR amplified products of 121bp was digested by restriction endonuclease enzyme DdeI, which recognizes G^AATTC sites. Present study showed that the presence of no restriction sites for the enzyme DdeI and only one band of 121bp was observed on the gel and such genotype was designated as A2A2 type. The β- casein gene showed A2A2 genotypes were observed in Malvi and Nimari breeds of cattle. The result of RFLP revealed that the gene and genotypic frequencies of β-casein (CSN2) gene for A2A2 was 1.00 for both Malvi and Nimari breed of cattle. So 100% frequency of A2 allele was observed in both the breeds of cattle under the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants often face a variety of abiotic stresses, which affects them negatively and lead to yield loss. The antioxidant system efficiently removes excessive reactive oxygen species and maintains redox homeostasis in plants. With better understanding of these protective mechanisms, recently the concept of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and its role in cell signaling has become the center of attention. H2S has been recognized as a third gasotransmitter and a potent regulator of growth and development processes such as germination, maturation, senescence and defense mechanism in plants. Because of its gaseous nature, H2S can diffuse to different part of the cells and balance the antioxidant pools by supplying sulfur to cells. H2S showed tolerance against a plethora of adverse environmental conditions like drought, salt, high temperature, cold, heavy metals and flood via changing in level of osmolytes, malonaldialdehyde, Na+/K+ uptake, activities of H2S biosynthesis and antioxidative enzymes. It also promotes cross adaptation through persulfidation. H2S along with calcium, methylglyoxal and nitric oxide, and their cross talk induces the expression of mitogen activated protein kinases as well as other genes in response to stress. Therefore, it is sensible to evaluate and explore the stress responsive genes involved in H2S regulated homeostasis and stress tolerance. The current article is aimed to summarize the recent updates on H2S‐mediated gene regulation in special reference to abiotic stress tolerance mechanism, and cross adaptation in plants. Moreover, new insights into the H2S‐associated signal transduction pathway have also been explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of residual stress is inevitable and major constraint for MEMS devices as they induce deformation, fracture, fatigue and micro structural changes in the structure. This paper presents the influence of residual stresses (up to − 2100 MPa) on the performance of AlN based piezoelectric MEMS accelerometer structure. The MEMS structure consists of an AlN coated silicon proof mass (800 µm × 800 µm × 300 µm) suspended by four beams (400 µm × 200 µm × 10 µm). Under the influence of residual stress (− 2100 MPa), the first three modal frequencies (13.54 kHz, 20.95 kHz and 20.95 kHz) of the accelerometer structure are reduced to 5.19 kHz, 10.17 kHz and 10.17 kHz respectively. The location of proof mass deflection and maximum von-Mises stress also get altered. Hence the structure sensitivity is also modified from 3.64 × 10−2/g (at no residual stress) to 2.54 × 10−4/g (at − 2100 MPa). The damping factor of the structure also gets modified from 3.96 to 10.38 due to the residual stress. Thus, the accelerometer frequency response (3 dB bandwidth) is found to be diminished from 1.81 to 0.26 kHz due to the presence of residual stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to know the polymorphic variants and their association with milk production traits in Malvi and Nimari cattle of Madhya Pradesh at αS2 casein gene (CSN1S2) gene locus. The PCR amplified products of 1267 base pair (bp) length were digested by restriction endonuclease enzyme EcoRV, which recognizes GATATC sites. The 1267bp product was cut into two fragments of sizes 1150bp and 117bp. All the tested samples yielded different results. Absence of restriction site at both the alleles that resulted in the appearance of single compact bands of size 1267bp was referred to as genotype AA. The samples exhibiting three fragments (1267bp/1150bp/117bp) were denoted as genotype AB. The RFLP analysis carried out in above both of the breeds of cattle revealed dissimilar genotypic patterns. AA and AB genotypes were observed in Malvi and Nimari. The genotypic and gene frequencies of AA, AB and BB genotypes of αS2-casein gene (CSN1S2)/EcoRV locus was found to be 0.44, 0.56 and 0.00 in Malvi; 0.68, 0.32 and 0.00 in Nimari and the respective gene frequency for A and B alleles were found to be 0.72 and 0.28 in Malvi; 0.84 and 0.16 in Nimari. The frequency of A allele was found to be highest as compared to B allele in all the four breeds of cattle under the study. Chi-square values for testing correspondence between observed and expected genotypic frequencies at this locus were found to be non-significant in Malvi and Nimari breeds of cattle. The above result indicated that the populations of animals of above both breeds were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at this locus. The association of polymorphic variants of αS2-casein gene (CSN1S2)/EcoRV in Malvi and Nimari breeds of cattle with milk yield per lactation (L), daily milk yield (L) showed the non significant difference was observed between mean MY(L) of AA and AB genotype of Malvi and Nimari and With respect of daily milk yield the Nimari. However, the Nimari breed showed significantly higher daily milk yield than the Malvi breed of cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports study of Raman and Photoluminescence (PL) characteristics of ZnTe crystal excited by near band-edge laser. The Raman spectra exhibited strong longitudinal-optical (LO) multiphonon peaks due to onset of resonance phenomenon. The optical excitation power response showed increase in the Raman multiphonon peak intensity with laser power with no shift in peak positions. The PL spectra also exhibited similar effect with the near band-edge peak intensity increasing with laser power without any peak shift. Increasing the temperature from 80 to 300 K showed a decrease in the multiphonon peak intensity. The Raman spectra at different sample temperatures are dominated by strong LO multiphonon peaks; however, a transverse optical (TO) Raman peak was also observed in the Raman spectra at temperature of 173 K and below indicating a shift from resonance (at room temperature and down to 173 K) to non-resonance condition (below 173 K). In addition, strong electron–phonon coupling is observed in the bulk ZnTe single crystal substantiated by high values of Huang–Rhys parameter in the considered temperature range. Within the band-edge resolvable temperature range (300–223 K), the near band-edge luminescence intensity also increased with decrease in the sample temperature along with a blue shift in the peak position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present research work was carried out on 50 Sahiwal and 50 HF Crossbred cattle in the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding of College of Veterinary Science and A H Jabalpur. During the research work the PCR amplified products of 121bp was digested by restriction endonuclease enzyme DdeI, which recognizes G^AATTC sites. The patterns evolved in the present study showed that the presence of one restriction site on one alleles and absence of restriction site on other alleles resulted in the appearance of three bands of 121, 86 and 35bp. This genotype was referred to as A1A2. When both strand had no restriction sites for the enzyme, only one band of 121bp was observed on the gel such genotype was designated as A2A2 type. The β- casein gene showed A2A2 and A1A2 genotypes were observed in Sahiwal and HF crossbred cattle. The genotypic frequencies of β-casein (CSN2)/ DdeI gene for A1A1, A1A2 and A2A2 are 0.00, 0.30 and 0.70 in Sahiwal and 0.00, 0.64 and 0.36 in HF crossbred cattle, respectively and the gene frequency A1 and A2 is 0.15 and 0.85 in Sahiwal and 0.32 and 0.68 in HF crossbred cattle. High frequency of A2 allele was observed in both the breeds of cattle under the study [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weeds are undesirable vegetation directly or indirectly inferring with human welfare. Conventional methods of weed control have failed due to one or other reason. Herbicideresistant weeds are the main problem in weed control due to the number of weed biotypes resistant to herbicides that constantly increases by the continuous use of the same products for years. Development of alternative weed control methods is needed to help decrease reliance on herbicide use. Biological weed control is an alternative option for weed problems, particularly in agriculture and forestry. It is based on the use of natural enemies, particularly insects and pathogens to control weeds, as a sustainable, low cost and more environmentally acceptable method of weed control. One of the approaches to biological weed control using fungal phytotoxin applied in similar ways to conventional herbicides. Fungal phytotoxins are natural secondary metabolites produced by plant pathogenic fungi during host-pathogen interactions. They have received considerable particular attention for elucidating disease etiology, and consequently to design strategies for disease control. Due to wide differences in their chemical structures, these toxic metabolites have different ecological and environmental roles and mechanisms of action. This review aims at summarizing the studies on the possible use of fungal phytotoxin as a lucrative, novel source of secondary phytotoxic herbicidal compounds for management of broad spectrum, noxious and pernicious weeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper discussed about the morphological and electrical properties of c-axis oriented aluminium nitride (AlN) thin films grown on Si (100) and Si (110) substrates by direct current (DC) reactive sputtering technique. Both the films showed intense (002) peak with the texture coefficient (γ) of 3.1 and 2.8 corresponding to Si (100) and (110) substrates. The AlN/Si (110) have grain sizes (20–30 nm) compared to the relatively denser grains (30–40 nm) of the film on Si (100) substrate. Both the films exhibited slanted columnar structures with slanting angle of 15° (Si (100) substrate) and 20° (Si (110) substrate). The dielectric constant values of the films at low frequency are found to be 7.4 and 8.8 corresponding to the Si (100) and Si (110) substrates respectively. The variation in dielectric constant values over the low frequency regime seems to be due to the presence of trapped charges present in the AlN layer and AlN‑silicon interface (interface trap density~1012 cm-2 eV−1). The flat band voltages are found to be 0.85 V and − 0.35 V corresponding to the Si (100) and (110) substrates respectively. The AlN/Si (100) film showed poor leakage current density ~ 10−4 A/cm−2 as compared to AlN/Si (110) (~ 10−5 A/cm−2). The AlN films exhibited dielectric breakdown field of 4.4 MV/cm and 6.6 MV/cm corresponding to the Si (100) and Si (110) substrates respectively. Highlights • AlN thin films were sputter deposited of on Si (100), Si (110) substrates. • The films exhibited slanted columnar structures. • Dielectric constants: 7.4 for AlN/Si (100) and 8.8 for AlN/Si (110). • Leakage current: 10−4 A/cm−2 in AlN/Si (100) and 10−5 A/cm−2 in AlN/Si (110). • Breakdown field: 4.4 MV/cm in AlN/Si (100) and 6.6 MV/cm in AlN/Si (110). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) and zinc rich zinc oxide (Zn:ZnO) thin films are synthesized using vapor phase trapping assisted thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. X-ray diffraction measurements indicate the highly textured c-axis growth for Zn:ZnO thin films as compared to ZnO thin film structures. The observed insignificant change in lattice parameters suggests that excess Zn is in interstitial sites. The optical studies substantiate that the excess Zn in ZnO matrix is contributing to the point defects, with integrated luminescence towards the light blue color with respect to that for the pristine ZnO thin film. The electronic carrier concentration is about four orders of magnitude higher for Zn:ZnO thin films, causing Burstein-Moss shift of ∼0.13 eV in Zn:ZnO thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents growth of TiO 2 -Cr 2 O 3 nanocomposite ultrathin films (∼30 nm thick) by sputtering technique for gas sensor applications. The deposited films were annealed to grow rutile TiO 2 and eskolaite Cr 2 O 3 phases. Grain sizes of the pristine Cr 2 O 3 and TiO 2 films (45–50 nm) were found to be larger compared to the nano-composite (7.1–69.5% Cr 2 O 3 in TiO 2 ) films (15–40 nm). The Raman spectra of the pristine TiO 2 film showed peaks at 220 cm −1 (B 1 g), 435 cm −1 (Eg) and 610 cm −1 (A 1 g) are attributed to the rutile phase of TiO 2 . The pristine eskolaite Cr 2 O 3 layer exhibited four Eg peaks at 300 cm −1 , 350 cm −1 , 520 cm −1 and 620 cm −1 along with the characteristic intense peak at 551 cm −1 (A 1 g mode). The peak positions of the A 1 g mode (Cr 2 O 3 ) and Eg mode (TiO 2 ) are found to be red shifted from its characteristic peak positions; but no shift is detected due to the intermixing of Cr 2 O 3 and TiO 2 phases. However, the FWHM of the A 1 g mode is found to be increased from 9 cm −1 (pristine Cr 2 O 3 ) to 13 cm −1 (26.1% Cr 2 O 3 ); while the Eg mode is found to be increased from 48 cm −1 (pristine TiO 2 ) to 80 cm −1 (46.9% Cr 2 O 3 ) due nanocomposite formation between the rutile and eskolaite phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste (MSW) leachate management has become an important issue worldwide. The present study evaluated the potential of indigenous fungi for biosorption of Cd 2+ from leachate. Three isolates— Trichoderma harzianum , Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were selected based on their ability to exclude the Cd 2+ at the preliminary stage. Among these, Trichoderma harzianum was found to be an excellent fungus for cadmium absorption. The highest biosorption rate for Cd 2+ was achieved under the conditions: temperature 45 °C (64.87%), pH 6.0 (64.78%) and spore concentration [10 5 cfu ml −1 ] (64.41%). The obtained data indicated that the developed fungal consortium is very efficient and effective for cadmium removal (72.41%), thereby demonstrating that it is a promising solution for removing toxic metals from MSW leachate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid nanostructured thin films of Au/SnO 2 consisting of SnO 2 nanostructures decorated with Au nanoparticles were synthesized by thermal evaporation of nanostructured SnO 2 thin films combined with deposition of ultrathin Au films by sputtering. The synthesized Au/SnO 2 hybrid nanostructured thin films were irradiated with 8 MeV Si 3+ ions at room temperature to fluences varying from 2 × 10 14 to 5 × 10 15 ions/cm 2 . Effects of MeV ion irradiation on the morphological, structural and optical properties of Au/SnO 2 hybrid nanostructured thin films were studied using atomic force microscopy (AFM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, UV–Visible absorption spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). XRD studies revealed the presence of nanostructures of SnO 2 , Au, Sn and Au-Sn alloy in the as-deposited thin films. XRD and AFM studies showed growth in size of nanostructures in the Au/SnO 2 hybrid nanostructured thin films upon ion irradiation. PL studies on as-deposited Au/SnO 2 hybrid nanostructured thin film revealed intense peaks at 382, 399, 419, 455 and 542 nm. MeV ion irradiation resulted in strong enhancement in UV emission and visible emissions from SnO 2 nanostructures in the Au/SnO 2 hybrid nanostructured thin films. Gas sensing studies showed that the sensor prepared using Au/SnO 2 hybrid nanostructured thin film exhibits highly enhanced CO gas sensing properties as compared to pure SnO 2 nanostructured thin film sensor and shows excellent selectivity for CO gas with negligible interference from CH 4 , NH 3 , CO 2 and SO 2 . The mechanism underlying the enhanced gas sensing properties of Au/SnO 2 nanostructured thin film is tentatively proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminium nitride (AlN) thin films are being extensively used for diverse applications. However, its use significantly depends on the minimization residual stress generated during the deposition process. This paper reports the evolution of residual stress in sputter deposited AlN thin films on Si (100) substrates with varying thickness. The deposited films were found to be polycrystalline wurtzite structure with orientations along (100) for low value of thickness (300 nm and 430 nm) and (002) preferred oriented for thicker films (630 nm and 830 nm). Residual stresses in the AlN films were estimated by x-ray diffraction, infra-red absorption and wafer curvature techniques. Determined Residual stresses were found to be matching well with each other and were compressive in nature. Residual stresses in the AlN thin films were found to decrease (from −2.1 GPa to −0.6 GPa) with the increase in film thicknesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work illustrates the co-composting of gelatin industry sludge (GIS) combined with organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) and poultry waste (PW) employing 10% zeolite mixed with enriched nitrifying bacteria consortium (ENBC). Five piles of GIS were prepared mixed with OFMSW and PW at 2:1:0.5, 4:1:0.5, 6:1:0.5 and 8:1:0.5 and without GIS 0:1:0.5 (dry weight basis) served as control, while 10% zeolite mixed with ENBC was inoculated in all piles and composted for 42 days. The Pile-4 with GIS, OFMSW and PW ratio 6:1:0.5 and 10% zeolite + ENBC were drastically reduced the nitrogen loss and enhance the mineralization rate as compare to other piles. The co-amendment of 6% GIS effectively buffered the pH between ∼7.5 to 8.0 and shortened the compost maturity period, while lower concentration of GIS was comparatively delayed the early decomposition. Therefore, our results suggested that suitability of 10% zeolite + ENBC with initial feedstock ratio 6:1:0.5 as the best formulation for the composting of GIS into value-added stable product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Modulation of Zn vacancies in ZnO nanostructured thin films. • Exciton energy of ∼ 30 meV for these nanostructured thin films. • Zn vacancy mediated green light emission in these nanostructures. • Interplay between Zn vacancy and electronic properties in these nanostructures. We used thermal chemical vapour deposition to synthesize zinc oxide nanostructured thin films on n-type silicon substrate using zinc oxide (ZnO) and zinc chloride (ZnCl 2) powder precursors in conjunction with bulk graphite powder. The synthesized ZnO nanostructured thin films structures are polycrystalline with a relatively enhanced c-axis orientation for ZnO powder precursor with respect to that of ZnCl 2 precursor. The scanning electron microscopic analysis substantiate the higher c-axis orientation of ZnO nanostructures, grown using ZnO powder precursor. The photoluminescence (PL) and UV–Vis measurements suggest the presence of zinc vacancies, causing the green emission from both nanostructured thin films. The measured bandgap of ZnO nanostructured thin film using ZnO powder precursor is slightly higher than that of ZnCl 2 powder precursor. The capacitance-voltage and Mott-Schottky measurements showed the n-type characteristics with 6.3 × 1016 cm−3 and 2.7 × 1015 cm−3 carrier densities for ZnO nanostructured thin films prepared using ZnO and ZnCl 2 precursors, respectively. The current-voltage measurements showed relatively lower current for ZnO nanostructured thin films, synthesized using ZnCl 2 precursor, signifying the presence of zinc vacancies trap sites and is also consistent with Mott-Schottky measurements, showing lower carrier concentrations with respect to that of ZnO precursor derived ZnO nanostructured thin films. Thus, controlled Zn vacancies in ZnO nanostructured thin films may lead to the efficient green light emitters, useful for green light colour emission applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents deep boron diffusion induced damages in silicon (100), (110) and (111) surfaces. The silicon (100) and (110) samples showed a broad hump at the higher angle (ω) side during x-ray Rocking curve measurement; whereas, the (111) sample shows an additional broad peak at higher angle side. All the diffused samples showed two distinct contours in reciprocal space mapping measurements. Due to the diffusion process, surface roughness of the silicon samples is found to be increased from 10 nm to 110 nm, 70 nm and 30 nm for the silicon (100), (110) and (111) samples respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavily boron doped silicon layer is being used to control the thickness of the bulk micro-machined micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) based structures. Residual stress generated due to the doping may affect the functioning and reliability of the MEMS devices. This paper presents a model for estimation of the diffusion induced residual stress by wafer curvature technique. Boron diffusion induced residual stresses in the silicon (100), (110) and (111) wafers are found to be 475 MPa, 963 MPa and 957 MPa respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the effects of 8 MeV Si 3+ ion irradiation on the structural, morphological and optical properties of nanostructured SnO 2 thin films, prepared by a simple thermal evaporation method. The structural and morphological evolution of nanostructured SnO 2 thin films upon MeV ion irradiation was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), while the optical properties of the thin films were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). XRD studies revealed the presence of nanocrystals of orthorhombic SnO 2 and cubic Sn in the as-deposited thin films. AFM studies revealed growth of SnO 2 nanoparticles in the films upon MeV ion irradiation. PL studies on the 8 MeV Si ion irradiated nanostructured SnO 2 thin films revealed strong enhancement in the intensity of UV and visible emissions from SnO 2 nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discussed about the optical properties of the PZT-BFO multilayer thin films, deposited with or without ZnO buffer layer. The elemental distribution of the PZT and BFO layers is found to vary across the thickness of the multilayer films. Raman spectroscopy measurement of both the multilayers samples has showed no sharp peaks due to the polycrystalline nature of the films and partial overlap of the Raman peaks of individual PZT and BFO layers. Photoluminescence study of the buffered film showed peaks at 400, 525, and 580 nm, whereas the un-buffered film showed PL peaks at 405 and 530 nm. The peak at 580 nm appears to be due to the ZnO buffer layer. The ZnO-buffered thin film shows more intense Raman and photoluminescence peaks compared with the thin film with no buffer. The absorption spectra of the PZT-BFO multilayers under the mid-IR radiations showed a sharp peak at 690 cm in both the samples. It might be due to the structural rearrangement of the BO and AO units resulting in perovskite phase (ABO) formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of various bulking waste such as wood shaving, agricultural and yard trimming waste combined with organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) composting was investigated through assessing their influence on microbial enzymatic activities and quality of finished compost. All three piles of OFMSW with different bulking waste were inoculated with microbial consortium. The results revealed that OFMSW combined with wood shaving and microbial consortium ( Phanerochaete chrysosporium , Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ) were helpful tool to facilitate the enzymatic activity and shortened composting period within 4 weeks. Maximum enzymatic activity were observed in pile 1 and 3 during the first 3 weeks, while in pile 2 relatively very low. But phosphatase activity was relatively higher in all piles until the end of the process. Maturity parameters of compost quality also favored the pile 1 as the best formulation for OFMSW composting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influence of fungal consortium and different turning frequency on composting of organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) was investigated to produce compost with higher agronomic value. Four piles of OFMSW were prepared: three piles were inoculated with fungal consortium containing 5 l each spore suspensions of Trichoderma viride , Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus and with a turning frequency of weekly (Pile 1), twice a week (Pile 2) and daily (Pile 3), while Pile 4 with weekly turning and without fungal inoculation served as control. The fungal consortium with weekly (Pile 1) turning frequency significantly affected temperature, pH, TOC, TKN, C/N ratio and germination index. High degradation of organic matter and early maturity was observed in Pile 1. Results indicate that fungal consortium with weekly turning frequency of open windrows were more cost-effective in comparison with other technologies for efficient composting and yield safe end products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the effect of substrate induced strain on the structural, transport, optical, and electronic properties of Sr 2 CoNbO 6 double perovskite thin films. The reciprocal space mapping, ϕ -scan, and high-resolution θ –2 θ scans of x-ray diffraction patterns suggest the epitaxial nature and high-quality of the films deposited on various single crystal ceramic substrates. A systematic enhancement in the dc electronic conductivity is observed with an increase in the compressive strain while there is a sharp reduction in the case of tensile strain, which is further supported by a change in the activation energy and the density of states near the Fermi level. The optical bandgap extracted from two distinct absorption bands, observed in the visible–near infrared spectroscopy, shows a non-monotonic behavior in the case of compressive strain while there is significant enhancement with tensile strain. Unlike the bulk Sr 2 CoNbO 6 (Co 3 + and Nb 5 + ), we observe different valence states of Co, namely, 2+, 3+, and 4+, and tetravalent Nb (4 d 1) in the x-ray photoemission spectroscopy measurements. Moreover, a reduction in the average oxygen valency with the compressive strain due to enhancement in the covalent character of Co/Nb–O bond is evident. Interestingly, we observe sharp Raman active modes in these thin films, which indicates a significant enhancement in structural ordering as compared to the bulk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HRXRD ω-2θ experimental and simulated plots for thin AlN epi-layer (∼100 nm) on SiC Substrate. [Display omitted] • Epitaxial growth of high-quality thin AlN epi-layer on SiC by MOVPE is reported. • The effect of the V/III ratio and growth rate is investigated. • The surface microstructure, structural and optical characteristics is being studied. • The reported conditions can be utilized to achieve high-quality AlN nucleation layer. Thin AlN epi-layers (∼100 nm) were grown on a SiC substrate by MOVPE (Metal Organic Vapor Phase Epitaxy). The effect of V/III ratio and growth rate on the surface morphology, quality (crystalline/interface), and stress of AlN epi-layer were studied. It was found that the quality of AlN epi-layer depends strongly upon the V/III ratio and growth rate. Crystalline quality improved significantly as reflected by very low X-ray rocking curves FWHM values of symmetric (0 0 4) and asymmetric (2 0 4) planes, which are ∼355 arc-sec and ∼840 arc-sec, respectively for a high V/III ratio and low growth rate. The AlN/SiC interface quality and surface morphology of AlN epi-layer were also improved remarkably. Raman spectroscopy results indicated that dislocation density influenced the biaxial stress (0.75 to 1.05 GPa). The blue shift in Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy of E 1 (TO) mode of AlN epi-layer as compared to stress-free value (i.e. 670 cm−1) is in close agreement with the Raman results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In a recent paper (S. Kumar, A. Pandey, Phys. Rev. E, 79, 2009, p. 026211) we considered Jacobi family (including Laguerre and Gaussian cases) of random matrix ensembles and reported exact solutions of crossover problems involving time-reversal symmetry breaking. In the present paper we give details of the work. We start with Dyson’s Brownian motion description of random matrix ensembles and obtain universal hierarchic relations among the unfolded correlation functions. For arbitrary dimensions we derive the joint probability density (jpd) of eigenvalues for all transitions leading to unitary ensembles as equilibrium ensembles. We focus on the orthogonal-unitary and symplectic-unitary crossovers and give generic expressions for jpd of eigenvalues, two-point kernels and n-level correlation functions. This involves generalization of the theory of skew-orthogonal polynomials to crossover ensembles. We also consider crossovers in the circular ensembles to show the generality of our method. In the large dimensionality limit, correlations in spectra with arbitrary initial density are shown to be universal when expressed in terms of a rescaled symmetry breaking parameter. Applications of our crossover results to communication theory and quantum conductance problems are also briefly discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria are known to suppress proinflammatory cytokines like IL-12 and TNF-α for a biased Th2 response that favors a successful infection and its subsequent intracellular survival. However, the signaling pathways targeted by the bacilli to inhibit production of these cytokines are not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrate that the PPE18 protein of M. tuberculosis inhibits LPS-induced IL-12 and TNF-α production by blocking nuclear translocation of p50, p65 NF-κB, and c-rel transcription factors. We found that PPE18 upregulates the expression as well as tyrosine phosphorylation of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), and the phosphorylated SOCS3 physically interacts with IκBα-NF-κB/rel complex, inhibiting phosphorylation of IκBα at the serine 32/36 residues by IκB kinase-β, and thereby prevents nuclear translocation of the NF-κB/rel subunits in LPS-activated macrophages. Specific knockdown of SOCS3 by small interfering RNA enhanced IκBα phosphorylation, leading to increased nuclear levels of NF-κB/rel transcription factors vis-a-vis IL-12 p40 and TNF-α production in macrophages cotreated with PPE18 and LPS. The PPE18 protein did not affect the IκB kinase-β activity. Our study describes a novel mechanism by which phosphorylated SOCS3 inhibits NF-κB activation by masking the phosphorylation site of IκBα. Also, this study highlights the possible mechanisms by which the M. tuberculosis suppresses production of proinflammatory cytokines using PPE18. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Previous studies reported that the age-related decline in testosterone biosynthesis is associated with a decrease in the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein which regulates the rate-limiting step of testosterone biosynthesis. To explore the possibility of delaying this decline using a dietary approach, we have examined the effect of a natural flavonoid, apigenin, on StAR gene expression in mouse Leydig cells. Incubation of these cells with the flavonoid enhanced cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-induced steroidogenesis and StAR protein expression. The results from the analyses of StAR mRNA by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and the luciferase assays of StAR promoter activity indicated that this flavonoid enhanced StAR gene expression at the level of transcription. Further studies showed that apigenin blocked the thromboxane A2 receptor and interrupted the signaling through the cyclooxygenase-2-thromboxane A synthase-thromboxane A2-receptor pathway, resulting in a reduction of DAX-1 (dosage sensitive sex reversal-adrenal hypoplasia congenita critical region on the X chromosome, gene-1) protein, a transcriptional repressor of StAR gene expression. When DAX-1 protein was reduced, the sensitivity of the Leydig cells was dramatically enhanced, with sub-threshold level of cAMP being able to induce maximal levels of StAR protein expression and steroid hormone production. The present study suggests a potential application of apigenin to improve StAR protein expression and steroidogenic sensitivity of aging Leydig cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Reversible protein phosphorylation serves as a basis for regulating a number of cellular processes. Aberrant activation of kinase signaling pathways is commonly associated with several cancers. Recent developments in phosphoprotein/phosphopeptide enrichment strategies and quantitative mass spectrometry have resulted in robust pipelines for high-throughput characterization of phosphorylation in a global fashion. Today, it is possible to profile site-specific phosphorylation events on thousands of proteins in a single experiment. The potential of this approach is already being realized to characterize signaling pathways that govern oncogenesis. In addition, chemical proteomic strategies have been used to unravel targets of kinase inhibitors, which are otherwise difficult to characterize. This review summarizes various approaches used for analysis of the phosphoproteome in general, and protein kinases in particular, highlighting key cancer phosphoproteomic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Random matrix model for the Nakagami- q (Hoyt) fading in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communication channels with arbitrary number of transmitting and receiving antennas is considered. The joint probability density for the eigenvalues of H†H (or HH†), where H is the channel matrix, is shown to correspond to the Laguerre crossover ensemble of random matrices and is given in terms of a Pfaffian. Exact expression for the marginal density of eigenvalues is obtained as a series consisting of associated Laguerre polynomials. This is used to study the effect of fading on the Shannon channel capacity. Exact expressions for higher order density correlation functions are also given which can be used to study the distribution of channel capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an interleukin-7 (IL-7) like cytokine, which plays an important role in the regulation of immune responses to allergens. TSLP binds to α heterodimeric receptor complex composed of the IL-7 receptor a chain (IL-7Rα) and the TSLP receptor (TSLPR, also known as CRLF2). It has previously been suggested that the lone tyrosine residue in the mouse TSLPR cytoplasmic domain is required for cell proliferation using chimeric receptor systems. Also the role of tyrosine residues in the IL-7Rα cytoplasmic domain in TSLP signaling has not yet been investigated. We undertook a systematic analysis to test the role of tyrosine residues of both the IL-7Rα and the TSLPR in inducing cell proliferation in a growth factor dependent cell line, Ba/F3. Results: A multiple sequence alignment of the IL-7Rα and TSLPR cytoplasmic domains revealed conservation of most, but not all, cytoplasmic tyrosine residues across several species. Our site-directed mutagenesis experiments revealed that the single tyrosine residue in human TSLPR was not required for TSLP-dependent cell proliferation. It has previously been reported that Y449 of human IL-7Rα is required for IL-7 dependent proliferation. Interestingly, in contrast to IL-7 signaling, none of tyrosine residues in the human IL-7Rα cytoplasmic domain were required for TSLP-dependent cell proliferation in the presence of a wild type TSLPR. However, the mutation of all cytoplasmic four tyrosine residues of human IL-7Rα and human TSLPR to phenylalanine residues abolished the proliferative ability of the TSLP receptor complex in response to TSLP. Conclusion: These results suggest that TSLP requires at least one cytoplasmic tyrosine residue to transmit proliferative signals. Unlike other members of IL-2 cytokine family, tyrosine residues in IL-7Rα and TSLPR cytoplasmic domains play a redundant role in TSLP-mediated cell growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron transfer dissociation (ETD) is increasingly becoming popular for high-throughput experiments especially in the identification of the labile post-translational modifications. Most search algorithms that are currently in use for querying MS/MS data against protein databases have been optimized on the basis of matching fragment ions derived from collision induced dissociation of peptides, which are dominated by b and y ions. However, electron transfer dissociation of peptides generates completely different types of fragments: c and z ions. The goal of our study was to test the ability of different search algorithms to handle data from this fragmentation method. We compared four MS/MS search algorithms (OMSSA, Mascot, Spectrum Mill, and X!Tandem) using ∼170 000 spectra generated from a standard protein mix, as well as from complex proteomic samples which included a large number of phosphopeptides. Our analysis revealed (1) greater differences between algorithms than has been previously reported for CID data, (2) a significant charge state bias resulting in >60-fold difference in the numbers of matched doubly charged peptides, and (3) identification of 70% more peptides by the best performing algorithm than the algorithm identifying the least number of peptides. Our results indicate that the search engines for analyzing ETD derived MS/MS spectra are still in their early days and that multiple search engines could be used to reduce individual biases of algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitions to universality classes of random matrix ensembles have been useful in the study of weakly-broken symmetries in quantum chaotic systems. Transitions involving Poisson as the initial ensemble have been particularly interesting. The exact two-point correlation function was derived by one of the present authors for the Poisson to circular unitary ensemble (CUE) transition with uniform initial density. This is given in terms of a rescaled symmetry breaking parameter Λ. The same result was obtained for Poisson to Gaussian unitary ensemble (GUE) transition by Kunz and Shapiro, using the contour-integral method of Brezin and Hikami. We show that their method is applicable to Poisson to CUE transition with arbitrary initial density. Their method is also applicable to the more general lCUE to CUE transition where lCUE refers to the superposition of l independent CUE spectra in arbitrary ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of biological and herbicidal methods is advocated to manage waterhyacinth, but this can only be achieved when herbicides are nontoxic to the biocontrol agent. Therefore, laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the toxic effect of herbicides on the insect biocontrol agent, the waterhyacinth weevil, Neochetina bruchi Hustache, and phytopathogen, Alternaria alternata, with two commonly used herbicides, glyphosate and 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid at three recommended doses. The herbicides were sprayed on the waterhyacinth weevils and added to the nutrient media of A. alternata. 2,4-D caused higher weevil mortality (6.7, 13.3 and 15.6%) as compared to glyphosate (3.3, 5.6 and 11.1%), at three doses over 72 h. There was also a decrease in feeding in the herbicide treated leaves. When the weevils were allowed to move freely between the herbicide treated and untreated plants, higher orientation of the weevils was found on the untreated waterhyacinth than on the treated ones. Neither of the two herbicides actually killed the fungus but both inhibited its growth. Glyphosate though, delayed mycelial growth yet stimulated sporulation while 2,4-D inhibited both growth and sporulation. Glyphosate at low concentration did not affect the virulence of A. alternata, while fungi grown on 2,4-D amended plates lost their virulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spectral fluctuations in quantum-chaotic systems undergo transition from one universality class to another as a good symmetry of the system is gradually broken. After suitable rescaling and limits, the transitions also have a universal classification which depends only on the initial and final systems and is describable in terms of Dyson's Brownian-motion ensembles of random matrices. In this article we consider Brownian ensembles which undergo transitions to the circular unitary ensemble (CUE). We give a general method of deriving two-level correlation functions exactly. As a first application, we derive results for the transition with initial spectrum being uniformly spaced. For the study of partitioning symmetries in time-reversal noninvariant quantum-chaotic systems, we obtain the two-level correlation functions for transitions starting with initial ensemble as direct sum of two independent CUEs with lower dimensionalities. For the study of time-reversal noninvariant quantum-chaotic systems whose classical analogs display an abrupt transition from integrability to chaos, we derive the two-level correlation function for the Poisson → CUE transition. We also rederive our earlier results for the COE → CUE and CSE* → CUE transitions, relevant for the study of weakly-broken time reversal symmetry, COE and CSE* denoting here respectively the circular orthogonal and symplectic ensembles with doubly-degenerate eigenvalues in the latter. These results, announced earlier without proofs, are also expected to hold for the corresponding Gaussian ensembles with large dimensionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of greatest promises of the post-genomic era is the use of genomic and proteomic information to discover how a cell works as a complex molecular machine. Mere cataloging of genes is insufficient for this purpose because the cellular architecture and functionality is largely decided by proteins and protein complexes. Elucidation of protein–protein interactions and networks is a challenging task that will require an integrated approach that combines different types of experiments in addition to bioinformatics analyses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mass spectrometry is already established as the method of choice for protein identification. Hitherto, a major limitation of mass spectrometry was the inability to quantitate protein levels. With the development of novel methods, such as the AQUA method by Gerber et al., this hurdle has finally been overcome, unleashing the power of mass spectrometry to study protein dynamics in cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents a study that identified signaling molecules involved in receptor tyrosine kinase signaling pathways using a proteomic approach that used mass spectrometry. Enrichment of tyrosine phosphorylated proteins; Identification of a novel signaling molecule called Odin in the epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway; Components of Odin.

Protein-based methodologies are catching up with established DNA-based methods at an astonishing speed. Recent developments in mass spectrometry enable high-throughput automated identification of proteins as is already the case with DNA sequencing methods. Furthermore, methods for the quantitation of relative protein abundance at the protein level are getting more advanced, which should complement gene expression monitoring at the mRNA level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]