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Background: Substitution of expensive protein sources like soybean meal with lower cost ingredient like rice distillers dried grain with solubles (rDDGS) would reduce the cost of the feed. Various enzymes supplementation may be used to increase their inclusion level. Methods: An in-vivo study of 42 days was undertaken (n=384) in broilers divided into 12 dietary treatments as per 3-4 factorial design. Two levels of rDDGS consisted of 12.5 and 15% without and with three different types of enzymes xylanase, protease and multienzymes were used to find out substract specific enzyme. Result: Overall the growth performance of broiler chicken was significantly lower at 15% rDDGS level as compared to control and 12.5% rDDGS level. However, it was significantly (P<0.01) improved by supplementation of any of the three enzymes (xylanase, protease and multienzymes) in 12.5 and 15% rDDGS groups. Nitrogen retention, dry matter and energy metabolizability were significantly (P<0.01) improved in all enzymes supplemented groups. The cost of feed per kg live weight and meat yield was significantly (P<0.01) lower at 12.5% rDDGS with enzymes supplementation. Thus, it is concluded that the enzymes supplementation can increase inclusion level of rDDGS from 12.5 to 15% for economic broiler production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We define and study new weak versions of the classical star-Rothberger covering property using α-open and θ-open sets of a topological space. We discuss their relations with some known weak version of the Rothberger property. It is also proved that for an extremally disconnected S-paracompact-T2 space the properties: Rothberger [25, 28], semi-Rothberger [26], α-Rothberger [14], θ-Rothberger [14] are equivalent. Moreover, for an extremely disconnected space the θ-Rothberger property coincides with the almost Rothberger [29] property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure copper, copper-based alloys, brass, graphite and steel are the most common tool materials for the electrical discharge machining (EDM) process. The electrode material, which exhibits good conductivity to heat and electricity and possesses better mechanical and thermal properties, is preferred for EDM applications. The major problem with conventional electrodes like copper and graphite is their low wear resistance capacity. This study is on the fabrication of Cu–SiC composites as an electrode of EDM with improved wear characteristics for machining of hardened D2 steel which is widely used in die formation. Powder metallurgy route was used to fabricate the samples which was further followed by three-step sintering process. Copper metal was used as a matrix element which was reinforced with SiC in volume fractions of 10%, 15% and 20%. Based on the desirable properties for the EDM tool, the best composition of Cu–SiC composite tool tip was suggested and was further used for machining of D2 steel. The performance of newly developed Cu–SiC composite electrode in terms of surface roughness (SR), material removal rate (MRR) and tool wear rate (TWR) was explored, and it was compared with the pure copper electrode. Pulse on-time, pulse off-time and the input current were selected as the input process parameters. Result reveals that the TWR and SR were decreased by 12–18% and 10–12%, whereas the MRR was increased by 9–28% for Cu–SiC composite tool as compared to the pure Cu electrode. Adequacy of the results was checked by statistical analysis. The surface texture of tool and machined surface was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM micrograph revealed that surface cracks on composite tool tip were lesser than pure Cu tool tip, whereas the work surface was rough while machining with the copper tool surface. Therefore, the result indicates that the newly developed Cu–SiC composite tool can be used for machining of hard materials with EDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a method for solving inhomogeneous linear sequential fractional differential equations with constant coefficients (ILSFDE) involving Jumarie fractional derivatives in terms of Mittag-Leffler functions. For this purpose, the fundamental properties of the Jumarie derivative and Mittag-Leffler functions are given. After this, the successive jumarie fractional derivatives of Mittag-Leffler functions, fractional cosine, and sine functions are obtained. Further, we determined the particular integrals of these functions and then found the complete solutions of ILSFDE. in terms of Mittag-Leffler functions, fractional cosine, and sine functions. We have demonstrated this developed method with a few examples of ILSFDE. This method is similar to the method for finding the complete solutions of classical differential equations with constant coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Age at marriage is one of the proximate determinants of fertility. Women with early age at marriage experiences early motherhood, associated with high fertility, low education, and rural residence accompanied with poverty. In the present study, an attempt has been made to evaluate age at marriage and factors affecting it and its effect on first birth interval (FBI) using systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODOLOGY: Inclusion criteria were availability of full- and free-text articles, published in English language, and current married age of mother being 13 years and above. PubMed and Google search was used for systematic review for the study. Meta-analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel 2013. RESULTS: Pooled-weighted average age at marriage was 19.96 years (with 4.26 standard error). The age at marriage in China was highest (21.56 years). Literacy and occupation of women had significant effect on age at marriage. Urbanization could not affect significantly on age at marriage. Furthermore, FBI has been modified by age at marriage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of feeding rice gluten meal (RGM) as an alternative protein source along with protease enzyme supplementation on growth performance, expression of nutrient transporter genes, nutrient digestibility, immune response and gut histomorphometry of broiler chicken. Proximate analysis of RGM revealed 923 g dry matter (DM), 500 g crude protein (CP), 69.2 g ether extract, 94.7 g crude fiber, 215.4 g nitrogen-free extract, 43.7 g ash, 6.20 g calcium, 7.80 g total phosphorus, 18.99 MJ gross energy and 12.68 MJ metabolizable energy per kg diet. Significant upregulation of nutrient transporter genes (PepT1, EAAT3 and mucin) and better growth performance was observed in the birds fed control diet which was statistically similar to the birds fed 150 g RGM compared to birds fed higher RGM levels. Histomorphometry of jejunum, nutrient digestibility, and immune response of birds did not reveal any significant effect of RGM or protease enzyme supplementation. However, the inclusion of RGM up to 150 g/kg diet resulted in significant decline of feed cost/kg live weight gain, dressed meat yield and eviscerated meat yield by 13.13%, 12.99% and 13.36%, respectively compared to control. Thus, it was concluded that the inclusion of 150 g RGM/kg diet in broiler chicken ration has no adverse effects on the growth pattern of birds and can be used for least-cost feed formulation for chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethanolic extract of T. Portulacastrum and pet. Ether extract of M. Laxiflora was evaluated in mice against trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) induced colitis. Mice were pre-treated orally for 14 days and continued for four days after the induction of colitis with (10, 50, and 100 mg/kg). Colitis was induced by intracolonic instillation of 20 mg of TNBS per mice dissolved in 50% alcohol and 4 days later, the colonic mucosal lesion was analyzed along with Diarrhoea, GI transit, defecation, gastric emptying, intestinal fluid accumulation. myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, reduced glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide levels in colonic tissue homogenate. Significant reduction in gross damage area, weight loss and decrease in colonic lesion were evident in test substance-pretreated animals dose dependently as compared to samle treated control. These effects were confirmed biochemically by a reduction in colonic myeloperoxidase activity, malondialdehyde levels, nitric oxide levels, and increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Furthermore, microscopic examination revealed diminution of inflammatory cell infiltration and submucosal edema in colon segments of mice treated with MP and TP . The results demonstrate the protective effect of both sample in the animal model of acute colitis possibly through an antioxidant, anti-lipoperoxidative or due to reduction in nitric oxide generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Chemistry is omnipresent in nuclear energy programmes all over the world. From the isolation and fabrication of fuel to the development of non-fuel materials and important nuclear processes, chemistry has played a crucial role. This article outlines the remarkable contribution that chemistry has made to the development of India's nuclear science programme. After a general introduction that deals with the inception and diversification of chemistry in the Department of Atomic Energy and some initial milestone achievements, a few notable contributions at BARC and IGCAR have been discussed in detail. These include the contribution of chemistry towards the front-end and back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle, nuclear safety, radiation chemistry and chemical innovations catering to the needs of society. Each subsection also includes possible future developments in the fields necessary for a sustainable nuclear energy programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Adenocalymma alliaceum Miers is a flowering plant that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. • Phytochemical screening confirms the presence of phenol and alkaloid, especially flavonoids. • Characterization study confirms the presence of Flacitran in flavonoids. • Flacitran plays an essential role in Adenocalymma alliaceum Miers flowers extract to control free radicals formation, diabetic and diabetic-related complications. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic endocrine disorder due to insulin imbalances associated with microvascular and macrovascular complications. This research was aimed to explore the diabetes-healing effect of Adenocalymma alliaceum Miers phytochemicals. Before secondary screening on animals, phytochemical constituent estimation, thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, column chromatographies, Gas chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), and acute toxicity study were performed. Then, Streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia in Wistar albino rats was carried out in five groups of animals such as Normal control (NC), diabetic control (DC), Standard group (Std), Low dose (EEAAF 100 mg/kg, b.w), Medium dose (EEAAF 250 mg/kg, b.w) and High dose (EEAAF 500 mg/kg, b.w) group. Each group consists of six animals. Upon regular observation for fasting blood glucose level, body weight, polyuria, polyphagia, polydipsia, serum protein, serum creatinine, serum urea, and lipid profile for four weeks, the animals were sacrificed using Ketamine hydrochloride. Organs were removed. Pancreases were used for observing cellular injury using Olympus binocular microscope at 45X. Isolated liver cells homogenate used for free radical scavenging activity such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH). The results showed the presence of polyphenol and alkaloids, especially flavonoids. Current characteristics of A. alliaceum include many principal secondary metabolites on GC-MS. On isolation and spectroscopic determination, Flacitran was found. There was neither mortality nor morbidity observed in the acute toxicity study. Adenocalymma alliaceum Miers flowers extract (EEAAF) shows promising efficacy in reducing blood glucose level, metabolic symptoms, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, serum urea, and success in elevating body weight, high-density lipoprotein, and serum protein. The histopathological report also showed significant results from the trio's doses of EEAAF against pancreatic damages compared to the DC group. The data recommend that Adenocalymma alliaceum Miers could be very effective as a accepted resource of antidiabetic agent to modulate pancreatic action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The removal of uranium from radioactive wastewater is an important step in nuclear waste management. In this study, a solid adsorbent was developed utilizing mesoporous alumina encapsulated within polyethersulfone (PES) beads for effective uranium extraction. The encapsulation process enhances the stability and selectivity of the material, while the mesoporous structure of alumina enables controlled mass transfer and optimal uranium adsorption. These composite beads were synthesized and thoroughly characterized, and their performance was evaluated for uranium removal from simulated radioactive wastewater. The synthesized materials have been characterized by FTIR, TGA–DSC, SEM, EDX and BET surface area analysis techniques to get complete insight into morphology, functionality and topography of materials. Batch adsorption experiments revealed rapid uranium uptake, reaching equilibrium within a short time frame. The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be ~18 mg g−1. These findings establish the potential of mesoporous alumina-encapsulated PES beads as a promising candidate for uranium extraction, offering a valuable contribution to the advancement of radioactive waste treatment technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently Bukovský, Das and Šupina [Ideal quasi-normal convergence and related notions, Colloq. Math. 146 (2017), 265–281] started the study of sequence selection properties (𝓘, 𝓙-α1) and (𝓘, 𝓙-α4) of Cp(X) using the double ideals, where 𝓘 and 𝓙 are the proper admissible ideals of ω, which are motivated by Arkhangeľskii local αi-properties [The frequency spectrum of a topological space and the classification of spaces, Dokl. Akad. Nauk SSSR 13 (1972), 1185–1189]. In this paper, we obtain some characterizations of (𝓘, 𝓙-α1) and (𝓘, 𝓙-α4) properties of Cp(X) in the terms of covering properties and selection principles. Under certain conditions on ideals 𝓘 and 𝓙, we identify the minimal cardinalities of a space X for which Cp(X) does not have (𝓘, 𝓙-α1) and (𝓘, 𝓙-α4) properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of countably ρI-compactness is introduced and several characterizations of this notion are obtained. It is shown that an ideal space (X, τ, I) is countably ρI-compact if and only if every countable locally finite modulo I, I ∈ I, family of non-ideal sets is finite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A yoke is an interface between bullock power and actual work to be performed. The yoke is worn on the neck of the bullocks and is secured by a belt around the neck. The bullocks push the yoke with their shoulders, hump and neck; therefore, the work is performed. Neck of the bullock is subjected to a high pressure which damages the body tissues. Consequently, bullocks are subjected to injuries, pain and fatigue that limit their performance. The neck seats are shaped similar to the neck profile of the bullocks which ensures high contact area between animal body and neck seat leading to lesser pressure and more animal comfort. The neck of a bullock was digitized using an optical scanner and a large number of points were obtained. The 3-D model was created on the digitized points, and the neck seat was developed subsequently. The contact analysis was performed using the augmented Lagrangian formulation option of Ansys Workbench for predicting contact pressure. The results of the body contoured yoke are compared with that of a flat wooden plank yoke and a cylindrical yoke. A substantial reduction of contact pressure and indentation on the neck has been found for the body contoured yoke. Conversely, the contact pressure was found much higher for other two types of yokes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduced relatively star-C-Hurewicz property in topological spaces following the approach of Bonanzinga and Pansera (Acta Math Hungar 117(3):231–243, 2007) and Guido and Kočinac (Quest Answ Gen Topol 19:107–114, 2001). A subspace A of a topological space X is said to have relatively star-C-Hurewicz property in X (in short, RSCH) or relatively star-C-Hurewicz subspace of X if for each sequence U n : n ∈ ω of open covers of X there is a sequence A n : n ∈ ω of countably compact subsets of X such that x ∈ A belongs to S t (A n , U n) for all but finitely many n. It is shown that relatively star-C-Hurewicz property is hereditary. In this manner, we obtained relationships of relatively star-C-Hurewicz property with other existing Hurewicz properties in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce a new class of almost contra-P β -continuous functions which is a subclass of the class of almost contra-precontinuous functions [8]. This class contains the classes of regular set connected functions, perfectly continuous functions and contra-P β -continuous functions. It is shown that almost contra-P β -continuity is independent to (θ, s)-continuity [12] and contra-precontinuity [11]. Furthermore, we obtain basic properties and preservations theorems for almost contra-P β -continuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given a space X and topological group H, C(X;H) denotes the set of all continuous functions from a space X to a topological group H. For a subset A of a space X, X=A denotes the quotient space with quotient topology obtained from X by identifying A to a point. We study some homeomorphisms between C(X;H) and C(Y;H) for different X and Y under the point-open topology, open-point topology and bi-point-open topology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce the notion of semi-open sets and feebly open sets in generalized topological spaces. Several properties of these notions are discussed. Also this paper considers (semi and feebly)-separation axioms for generalized topological spaces. We further investigate (semi-continuous, feebly-continuous, almost open)-functions in generalized topological spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biological experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding rice based distillers dried grains with solubles (rDDGS) as soybean replacement without or with different enzymes on carcass characteristics in broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted as per 3x4 factorial completely randomized design. A total of 384 broiler chicks of same hatch with uniform weight were used. There were twelve different treatments with 4 replicates for each treatment and each replicate consisted of 8 chicks. Two levels of rice DDGS were taken (12.5 and 15%). Protease, xylanase and multienzymes supplementation under different treatments were done. The results revealed that no significant (p>0.05) difference was observed due to different levels of rice DDGS and their interaction with different enzymes in carcass traits, cut up parts, visceral organ and immune organ weight except abdomen fat and giblet weight. Abdomen fat was significantly (p<0.05) higher in 15% rDDGS level with or without xylanase supplementation. Xylanase supplementation increased significantly (p<0.05) giblet weight as compared to multienzymes and without enzyme groups. The study concludes that the feeding of rDDGS levels of 12.5% and 15%, respectively with or without enzyme supplementation do not have any adverse effects on the carcass traits, but xylanase supplementation improved abdomen fat and giblet weight of broiler chicken at 42 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biological experiment was undertaken with (4x2) factorial CRD in 26 wk old CARI Sonali layers (n=120) assigned to eight treatments (i.e. 2 control + 6 test diets) having 15 replicates with one layer in each replicate for ten weeks (26th-35th week of age). Eight experimental diets (D1 to D8) were prepared by incorporating rice dry distiller grain with soluble (DDGS) without and with enzyme at 0, 5, 7.5 and 10% level. Weighed amount of respective diet was offered to individual birds daily. All diets had been kept isocaloric and isonitrogenous in nature. Findings through experiment I revealed that rice DDGS employed in this study contained CP 45.0% which is almost at par of fish meal protein and slightly lower to SBM. However, the gross energy is higher than FM and SBM but lower than maize. In vitro pepsin-pancreatin digestibility and available carbohydrate contents (ACHO) of rice DDGS was found 78.05 and 23.25% respectively. Phytate phosphorus content in rice DDGS was 0.44%. However non-phytate phosphorus was 0.33% which is 57.14% of total phosphorus. Different levels of rice DDGS either sole or in combination with enzyme did not have any significant (P>0.05) effect on egg cholesterol, sensory attributes except appearance and colour of boiled egg, however significantly (P<0.01) increased the haematological, serum protein profile and have lowering effect on serum lipid profile, which was found better effect after dietary addition of enzyme during II experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

In this paper, we study new separations of sets called half separated, half β-separated, half semi-separated, half pre-separated, half β-separated sets and corresponding to these notions introduced half connected, half β-connected, half semi-connected, half pre-connected, half β-connected topological spaces, respectively. These are stronger forms of connectedness, β-connectedness, semi-connectedness, pre-connectedness, β- connectedness respectively. The properties of these notions follow the same pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the present work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), bamboo charcoal (BC) and activated carbon (AC) have been synthesized via thermal CVD technique by adopting fixed catalyst route and by simple pyrolysis, respectively. A two-terminal device has been fabricated using either MWCNTs, BC or AC as sensing material which was kept between the two terminals. This fabricated device was used for alcohol sensing at room temperature. In order to determine the sensitivity and detection limit, one droplet (∼10 μL) of alcohol (CH 3 OH, C 2 H 5 OH and IPA) as well as IPA/water mixture was drop casted on the sensing material and the variation of resistance with respect to time has been monitored. The plausible explanation of detection has also been proposed taking into account the carriers tunneling between two disordered regions which was being wetted by alcohol molecules. We envision that the fabricated device might be a cost effective solution for the detection of pure as well as dilute isopropyl alcohol. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • In fabricated device, MWCNTs, bamboo charcoal or activated carbon was used as sensing material. • This fabricated device was used for alcohol (CH 3 OH, C 2 H 5 OH and IPA) sensing. • Taking into account carriers tunneling between disordered regions alcohol detection explained. • Higher sensitivity was found for AC and BC in comparison to MWCNTs. • The fabricated device might be a cost effective for the detection of pure as well as dilute IPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In present work, wall-to-wall joining of two parallel multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has been successfully demonstrated using electron beam inside high resolution transmission electron microscope. The used MWCNTs have been grown using cobaltocene and benzene as catalyst and carbon precursor, respectively via thermal CVD technique. We have proposed that in present case, irradiation induced joining is achieved if adequate balance between sputtered carbon atoms from the outer walls of MWCNTs and generation as well as migration of defects along the tube axis is obtained. Casimir effect is not found to play dominating role in the joining process. The proposed method can potentially be used for developing wall-to-wall interconnection between MWCNTs using electron beam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic study of the consequences of in-plane tensile strain on the correlation between structure/microstructure and magneto-electrical properties of La0.23Pr0.41Ca0.36MnO3/SrTiO3 (001) thin films is performed. At lower film thickness (d≤27 nm) the dominant tensile strain supports layered morphology. At d=41 nm structural/microstructural crossover takes place and at d≥41 nm relaxation induced tilt and dilations of the lattice generate defects like dislocations, which in turn transforms the layer by layer growth into disordered brick type morphology. It appears that the relaxation even at higher thickness (∼81 nm) is partial only and the strain may have a self-sustained nature. The domination of the tensile strain suppresses the ferromagnetic-metallic phase due to the possible electronic reconstruction which could give rise to a magnetically disordered insulator 'dead' layer and a sizeable non-magnetic insulator state at d≤27 nm. In this thickness regime the possible selective orbital stabilization could also contribute to carrier localization. At d≥41 nm the severity of the impact of the interfacial electronic reconstruction is reduced with concomitant relaxation of the tensile strain which favors carrier delocalization and yields well defined metallic-ferromagnetic phase transitions. The hysteretic nature of the phase transitions reflects the thermal cycle dependent nature of the metallic-ferromagnetic and insulating antiferromagnetic phases in this strongly phase separated material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a structure of heterojunction solar cell configured as Ti (front contact)/p-phosphorene/n-cSi/Ag (back contact) has been simulated by using AFOSR-HET v2.5 software. Here, electronic nature of phosphorene layer which is anisotropic along armchair and zigzag directions has been considered as 3D in nature instead of 2D. After optimizing the parameters of p-type single layer phosphorene and n-type crystalline silicon (n-cSi) maximum power conversion efficiency 15.51% and 14.06% has been achieved for armchair and zigzag phosphorene, respectively. The temperature dependence of the cell performance has been studied and maximum efficiency has been found at 300 K for both armchair and zigzag phosphorene layer. Further, we have studied the effect of metal contact on the cell performance. We have also simulated the solar cell taking experimentally available parameters of n-cSi and efficiencies of 13.29% and 14.06% are found in cases of the armchair and zigzag phosphorene layers, respectively. Finally, we have demonstrated that multilayer p-type phosphorene layer could act as an effective transparent conducting electrode in the silicon heterojunction solar cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we demonstrate that by using sugarcane bagasse as a carbon precursor, highly crystalline diamond films possessing H3 [N-V-N] and [Si-V] − optical centers can be grown on Si (100) substrates using a simple thermal chemical vapor deposition (thermal-CVD) system at atmospheric pressure and reduced temperature (~900 °C). In this process, the rich chemistry of effluent gas species produced during the pyrolysis of sugarcane bagasse is found to play a vital role. Diamond films have also been characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), micro-Raman, and photoluminescence (PL) spectrometer. Presence of nitrogen and silicon related defect was probed by PL and H3, i.e. [N-V-N] at 505 nm and [Si-V] − at 736 nm optical centers have been confirmed. The other observed peaks at 445.7 nm, 468 nm, and 884 nm are assigned to nitrogen-containing defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The potentiality of novel graphene/diamane interface in HIT solar cell has been demonstrated. • HIT module: gr/n-Dn/a-Si: H (i)/p-cSi/Ag has been simulated at standard spectrum AM 1.5G. • The optimum values of V O C = 699.7 mV, J S C = 53.04 mA/cm2, FF = 84.06 % and η = 31.2 % have been found. • As thickness of TCE and emitter layer increased, η decreased and it became 24.15 % for commercial Si. In this article, the patentability of novel graphene/diamane interface in HIT solar cell has been explored by simulated a structure modelled as: graphene (TCO) / n-diamane / a-Si: H (i) / p-cSi / Ag (back contact) with the help of software AFORS-HET version 2.5. Here, n-type diamane is used as an emitter layer and graphene as TCO. An efficiency of 31.2 % is achieved with this structure by varying various parameters of n-type diamane, p-crystalline silicon and hydrogenated intrinsic amorphous silicon layer which is pressed in between the two oppositely doped wafer (diamane and c-Si). Furthermore, when ITO is used as TCO then a comparatively low efficiency 27.15 % is achieved and when the commercially available values of silicon's parameters is used for the validation of results then an efficiency of 24.15 % is obtained. Some parameters of a-Si: H (i) has been further optimized and the optimum efficiency 31.2 % has been found at minimum thickness of 3 nm at bandgap 1.6 eV. Finally, we have demonstrated that only carbon material has an ability that its two-dimensional allotropes can be used as an emitter layer as well as efficient transparent conducting electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co1–xZnxFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8) cobalt zinc nanoferrites (CZF) nanoparticles were created in this study utilizing the auto-ignition procedure with citric acid as an oxidizing agent. Following thermogravimetric–differential thermal analysis, the prepared Co1–xZnxFe2O4 powder was sintered at 1000°C for 4 h. The single-phase cubic structure of Co-Zn ferrite nanoparticles was described by X-ray diffraction studies, and its outcomes show particle size fluctuation. Fourier transform infrared spectra show that phase formation occurred. Due to the ferrite samples, scanning electron microscope images demonstrate the aggregation of spherical grains. Peaks of the corresponding components Co, Zn, Fe and O were seen in the energy dispersive X-ray spectra, indicating the production of cobalt zinc ferrite. By employing a vibrating sample magnetometer to evaluate the magnetic characteristics of the ferrite output, soft ferrite material was found to be present. The range 58.55–74.46 nm is discovered to be the average crystallite size of the ferrite nanoparticles produced by field emission-scanning electron microscope. Transmission electron microscopy elaborates clustering of grains. With increase in Zn content in cobalt zinc ferrite nanoparticles, hysteresis loops were shown to be modified for magnetic characteristics, which include Ms, Mr, Hc and Mr/Ms. CZF nanoferrites can be employed in microwave devices because of their dielectric properties, i.e., the tangent loss is lower at high frequencies. Co0.2Zn0.8Fe2O4 exhibits surprisingly high dielectric permittivity with small dielectric loss and can be exploited for power storage at high frequencies. These results indicate CZF as a promising nanomaterial with unique technological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of functions called 'Rδ-supercontinuous functions' is introduced. Their basic properties are studied and their place in the hierarchy of strong variants of continuity which already exist in the literature is elaborated. The class of Rδ-supercontinuous functions (Math. Bohem., to appear) properly contains the class of Rz-supercontinuous functions which in its turn properly contains the class of Rcl-supercontinuous functions (Demonstratio Math. 46(1) (2013), 229-244) and so includes all cl-supercontinuous (=clopen continuous) functions (Applied Gen. Topol. 8(2) (2007), 293-300; Indian J. Pure Appl. Math. 14(6) (1983), 767-772) and is properly contained in the class of R-supercontinuous functions (Demonstratio Math. 43(3) (2010), 703-723). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of aloe gel (AG) and vegetable oil (VO) as animal fat replacers on the texture, dynamic rheology, microstructure, and oxidative stability of low-fat meat emulsions was evaluated. There was no difference in complex viscosity (η*), G'0 - G"0, and An values between 50% fat replacement and full-fat meat emulsion samples. In all the samples, the G' values were much higher than G' values with a small frequency dependency. In low-fat meat emulsion (50% fat replacement) samples, the difference between G' and G" was higher which suggested strong matrix network structure. Hardness and springiness values were affected (P < 0.05) by addition of AG and were in agreement with dynamic rheological parameters (G' and G"). The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images of meat emulsion samples containing 50% AG showed more regular, compact, and dense continuous phase as compared to other samples. Higher oxidative stability (low TBARs) was observed (P < 0.05) in samples which contained AG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study has been carried out to experimentally determine the optical effective mass of photon in single layer graphene transferred on glass and quartz substrates, and bilayer graphene as-grown on Cu foil. Measurements have been performed in microstrip line based test fixture where first real and imaginary parts of complex relative permittivity have been obtained, then the refractive index is used to estimate the phase velocity in single and bilayer graphene, this index were found to be higher at lower frequency below 1.5 GHz. The phase velocities are found to be ∼ 1.04 × 10 8 ms −1 and ∼ 1.11 × 10 8 ms −1 in single and bilayer graphene, respectively and little high group velocities are found in range of 2–26.5 GHz. In single and bilayer graphene, the optical effective mass has been found to vary from ∼ 0.72 × 10 −10 m 0 to ∼ 0.2 × 10 −8 m 0 in a frequency range between 1 and 26.5 GHz. We envision that reported results can help to understand the transport behaviour of photons in as-grown graphene layer in microwave frequency range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinization of irrigated lands is a major issue in India having serious implications on food security and environment. Appropriate technology packages-one for reclaiming water logged saline soils underlain by brackish water aquifers; and the other for sodic soils, mostly underlain by good quality groundwater, have been evolved. The evolution and out-scaling of these agro-technologies with supporting policies and institutions, is presented. The restoration of sodic lands was achieved through integrated management of rainwater (in farm pond and rice paddies), chemical amendment for neutralization of alkalinity, shallow tube wells for irrigation and drainage and land surface modifications to improve salt leaching and irrigation efficiency. The technology for reclamation of saline soils, evolved from multi-location field experimentation, with focus on shallow horizontal subsurface drainage system for monsoonal climate. The system required minimal pumping, and offered opportunity for practicing controlled drainage to reduce irrigation requirements in post reclamation years. The monitored data indicated favourable changes in hydrology, subsoil water quality (in case of saline water logged lands), land productivity, farm income and employment. The assessment of out-scaled land restoration programme revealed that, public policies in respect of energy for energizing tube wells, subsidy on chemical amendments and farm credit, accelerated the pace of technology adoption. The institutional arrangements - research institutions, land reclamation corporations and international organizations with strong linkages at country level; and the users' associations, self-help groups and cooperatives at village level, very effectively supported the land reclamation, leading to transformative socio-economic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to experimentally deduce the transmission and dielectric properties of CVD-grown single layer graphene transferred on glass and quartz substrates in wide frequency range from 100 MHz to 10 GHz. First, structural properties of graphene layer have been probed by Raman spectroscopy and then a simple and straightforward de-embedding method based on the propagation constants is adopted to deduce the effective relative permittivity of graphene layer. The graphene layer deposited on the substrate is found to exhibit higher absorption than the bare glass as well as quartz substrate in range of 2–10 GHz. The phase and group velocities have been determined and found to be in well agreement with values obtained by using the standard de-embedding method based on ABCD parameters. In both cases, graphene on glass and quartz, the maximum values of phase velocity are found to be ∼8.57 × 10 7 m/s at 4.12 GHz and ∼9.13 × 10 7 m/s at 4.52 GHz, respectively whereas the respective maximum group velocities for these materials are found to be ∼2.0 × 10 9 m/s and ∼1.9 × 10 9 m/s at 817 MHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have simulated the structure of a p-graphene/n-crystalline silicon solar cell by using AFORS-HET software. Following our recent report (Patel and Tyagi, AIP Adv. 5 (2015) 077165) here also we have considered graphene as 3D in nature. To obtain confinement, boundary conditions have been applied by controlling number of layers. Formation of Schottky junction has been ensured by making of electrical contact along the c-axis to collect the minority carriers. Power conversion efficiency of 6.75 % has been achieved with best-simulated cell's parameters of p-type single layer graphene. Under the illumination conditions of AM1.5G, it has been observed that as layer number increases up to 20 efficiency decreases linearly to 4.34 %. Through the optimization of parameters of n-crystalline silicon layer, a maximum efficiency of 9.812 % has been achieved for 80 μm thick silicon. Such heterojunction photovoltaic device has shown large temperature dependence. Cell performance has been further tested taking parameters of commercial available n-type Si. Optimum efficiency of 11.47 % has been achieved for 100 μm thick silicon layer. Finally, we have demonstrated that p-type multilayer graphene can act as an efficient transparent conducting electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of aloe gel (AG) and vegetable oil (VO) as animal fat replacers on the texture, dynamic rheology, microstructure, and oxidative stability of low-fat meat emulsions was evaluated. There was no difference in complex viscosity (η*), G’0- G’’0,and Anvalues between 50% fat replacement and full-fat meat emulsion samples. In all the samples, the G′ values were much higher than G″ values with a small frequency dependency. In low-fat meat emulsion (50% fat replacement) samples, the difference between G’ and G’’ was higher which suggested strong matrix network structure. Hardness and springiness values were affected (P< 0.05) by addition of AG and were in agreement with dynamic rheological parameters (G’ and G’’). The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images of meat emulsion samples containing 50% AG showed more regular, compact, and dense continuous phase as compared to other samples. Higher oxidative stability (low TBARs) was observed (P< 0.05) in samples which contained AG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on the status of air quality are presented for two locations in Delhi, the capital city of India, for 2013. Our study revealed that the levels of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), particulate matter of 10 or <10 μm aerodynamic diameter (PM10) and benzene exceeded the maximum permissible limits laid down in the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). On most of the monitoring days, the concentrations of PM10also exceeded the limits for 24 h averages stipulated by the NAAQS. This study also demonstrated that the concentration of pollutants varied with the season, peaking in dry season (winter) mainly because of the relatively stable meteorological conditions and recording the lowest values in the wet season (the rainy season) because of turbulence, strong winds, and rains. The post-monsoon season showed the contribution of local sources. The strong correlation among NOx, PM10, and benzene strongly suggests that motor vehicles are the major contributor to this pollution. Intervention by regulatory agencies is essential to improve the air quality of Delhi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anterior approach provides excellent visualization and access to the anterior thoracic spine. It may be used alone, in combination with a posterior midline approach or in a staged or sequential fashion. Aims: To analyse our institutional experience in transthoracic approaches and to determine the safety and benefit of this approach in our patient series. Materials and Methods: A total of 16 patients were operated for varying lesions of body of dorsal vertebra by the transthoracic approach. The study was for a period of 5 years from January 2011 to December 2015. Patients age ranged from 25 to 61 years with an average of 36.4 yrs. There were 7 males and 9 females. In our series 9 patients had Kochs spine, 4 patients were traumatic fracture spine and 3 had neoplastic lesion. Majority of patients had multiple symptoms with backache being present in all patients. Results: There was one post operative mortality which was unrelated to surgery. One patient had post operative delayed kyphosis. Remaining patients improved in their symptoms following surgery. Conclusion: With careful coordination by thoracic surgeons, neurospinal surgeons and anaesthetists, the anterior spine approach for dorsal spine is safe and effective. Adequate preoperative evaluation should stratify the risk and institute measures to reduce it. Accurate surgical planning and careful surgical technique are the key to yield a good outcome and to reduce the risk of complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: One half of all central nervous system ependymomas, arise within the spinal canal and about 40% of these arise from filum terminale. The myxopapillary variant of spinal ependymoma almost exclusively occurs in the lumbosacral region and they are histologically designated as Grade I. Long term control is best achieved by gross total removal at the initial operation. There is as yet no consensus on the management of incompletely excised tumour. Opinions regarding radiotherapy are controversial and the indications are empirical. Aim In the present study, we investigated the clinical characteristics and long-term outcomes in patients with conus cauda ependymoma that were managed at our center with baseline comparison of our findings with those reported in literature. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 44 cases of conus cauda ependymoma tumours treated at the Department of Neurosurgery at a tertiary care centre from January 2001 to December 2015 was done. Detailed scrutiny and analysis of the patient's data with respect to the demographic features, clinical findings, investigative procedures, extent of surgical resection, intra and postoperative complications, efficacy of adjuvant therapy, postoperative results and long term follow-up were done. Results: The analysis was done in 44 patients with conus cauda ependymoma over a period of 15 years. The mean age of presentation was 31 years. Incidence of male predominance was noted. Average duration of presenting features was 10 months. Back pain and motor weakness in the lower limbs were the commonest clinical findings. Total excision of the tumour was possible in 89% cases. Myxopapillary ependymoma was the commonest variant. Radiotherapy was only given in patients with near total to subtotal excision of tumour. Back pain and motor weakness improved in majority of patients after surgery. There is limited role of radiotherapy in cases with total tumour excision. Conclusion: Conus cauda ependymomas are relatively benign tumours. The long term prognosis is excellent with respect to recurrence and functional outcome in cases with complete tumour excision. Early diagnosis and surgery will prevent occurrence of permanent neurological deficits. Radiotherapy can be given in cases of subtotal excision but there is limited role of radiotherapy in cases with total tumour excision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitosis is an essential process for the self-renewal of cells that is accompanied by dynamic changes in nuclear architecture and chromatin organization. Despite all the changes, the cell manages to re-establish all the parental epigenetic marks, post-mitotically. Recent reports suggest that some sequence-specific transcription factors remain attached to mitotic chromatin during cell division to ensure timely reactivation of a subset of transcription factors necessary to maintain cell identity. These mitotically associated factors are suggested to act as 'genome bookmarking factors' and the phenomenon is termed 'genome bookmarking'. Here, we studied this phenomenon with Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), a key regulator of calcium and phosphate homeostasis and a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. This study, for the first time, has confirmed VDR as a mitotic bookmarking factor that may be playing a crucial role in the maintenance of cell identity and genome bookmarking. Full 'DNA binding domain (DBD)' present in VDR was identified as essential for enrichment of VDR on mitotic chromatin. Furthermore, the study also demonstrates that VDR evokes mitotic chromatin binding behaviour in its heterodimeric partner Retinoid X receptor (RXR). Interestingly, for promoting bookmarking behaviour in RXR, both DBD and/or ligand-binding domain (LBD) in conjunction with hinge region of VDR were required. Additionally, ChIP analysis showed that VDR remains associated with DR3 (direct repeat 3) region of its specific target gene promoter CYP24A1 (Cytochrome P450 family 24 subfamily A member1), during mitosis. Altogether, our study illustrates a novel function of VDR in the epigenetic transmission and control of expression of target proteome for maintenance of cell identity and traits in progeny cells. • VDR remains constitutively associated with mitotic chromatin during cell division. • VDR promotes mitotic chromatin binding of its heterodimeric partner RXR. • VDR binds with DR3 sequences in target gene promoters during interphase and mitosis. • VDR-DBD plays a central role in constitutive genome bookmarking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Two experiments were conducted to examine the effect of feeding higher supplemental vitamin E (VE) concentrations on male reproductive variables, fertility and hatchability of quails. 2. In experiment 1, sixty 5-week-old male quails, reared in individual cages, were fed male breeder diets supplemented with 0, 75, 150, 225 or 300 IU α-tocopherol acetate/kg. At 10 weeks, observations on cloacal gland size, foam production, testes weight and blood samples for testosterone estimation were taken. 3. In experiment 2, 50 male and 50 female cage-reared quails (5 weeks old) were fed male breeder and layer rations, respectively, supplemented with 0, 75, 150, 225 or 300 IU/kg. At 13 weeks, 9 different mating pairs (5 pairs/group) were formed. Group 1 contained one control male and one control female in each of 5 pens. In groups 2 to 5, control males were paired with females on supplements of 75, 150, 225 or 300 IU/kg. In groups 6 to 9, control females were paired with males on supplements of 75, 150, 225 and 300 IU/kg. During subsequent adaptation and egg collection periods, each of 10 d, control layer ration was fed to all groups. All the eggs laid during the 10-d egg collection period were incubated artificially to estimate fertility and hatchability. The trial was repeated at 15 weeks. 4. Adult male quails receiving moderate supplemental VE (75 and 150 IU/kg) had a higher cloacal gland index, quantity of foam secretion, testicular weight and plasma testosterone than quails fed on either VE-deficient or more highly supplemented diets (225 and 300 IU α-tocopherol acetate/kg). 5. It was concluded that a supplement of 75 IU VE/kg in maize/soybean diet could provide the best reproductive performance of male breeder quails. Cloacal gland index, quantity of foam secretion, testicular weight and plasma testosterone can serve as indirect indicators of testicular activity and fertilising ability in quails. Supplemental VE did not affect the fertility and hatchability of male and female Japanese quails. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A study, of 7 weeks duration, was conducted for comparative evaluation of feeding value of diets containing cottonseed meals obtained from two types of cotton seeds, i.e. transgenic Bt (JKC-738) and its normal isoline (non-Bt) seeds obtained from J.K. Seeds, Hyderabad (India) in broiler chicken for optimum performance and carcass yield. The two types of cottonseeds were first processed for solvent extraction to obtain solvent-extracted cottonseed meals (CSM). The total and free gossypol (gkg−1) contents of different types of seeds were 32.7 and 11.3 in Bt and 38.7 and 13.5 in non-Bt type. The corresponding values of total and free gossypol contents of meals (solvent extracted) were 12.5 and 0.7 in Bt, and 12.5 and 0.4gkg−1 in non-Bt, respectively. Day-old broiler chicks (n =120) were divided into 12 groups of 10 each. Three experimental diets (iso-nitrogenous- 230 and 210gkg−1 CP and iso-caloric- 12.15 and 12.35MJME/kg for 0–4 and 4–7 weeks for starting and finishing phases, respectively) were formulated. Diet D1 was a typical maize–soyabean meal-based control diet. Two other diets were prepared by incorporating 100gkg−1 each of Bt CSM (D2) and non-Bt CSM (D3) in the control diet. The calcium, available phosphorus and all the limiting amino acids for poultry, namely lysine, methionine, cystine, threonine and arginine were similar in all the diets in both growth phases (0–4 weeks starting and 4–7 weeks finishing phases). Each dietary treatment was offered to four replicated groups of birds from day old to 7 weeks of age. The birds were reared in battery cages with group wise brooding, feeding and watering facilities. The management and vaccination practices were kept identical for all the dietary treatments. Birds were weighed at weekly intervals and data of feed intake were also recorded simultaneously. At the end of seventh week of age, eight birds per treatment (two birds/replicate) were slaughtered to study the effect of feeding CSM types on different carcass traits and development of digestive and immune organs. Body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion efficiency, did not differ statistically (P>0.05) either at starting (0–4 weeks), or overall (0–7 weeks) phases. However, during finishing phase (4–7 weeks), significantly (P<0.01) lower feed intake with better (P<0.05) FCR was observed in chicks fed Bt CSM diet. The carcass traits also remained statistically (P>0.05) similar due to various dietary treatments except for thigh (P<0.05). The dry matter metabolizability, nitrogen retention and blood biochemical constituents, viz. plasma protein, total cholesterol and haemoglobin did not differ statistically due to dietary treatments. The study concluded that neither the gossypol content nor transgenic gene/protein in Bt CSM had any deleterious effect on growth performance, blood biochemicals and various carcass characteristics of growing broiler chickens and therefore GMO (Bt-Cry1Ac gene) cottonseed meal is similar in growth performance to broilers as non-GMO low free gossypol cottonseed meal and could safely be included up to 100gkg−1 level in maize–soybean meal-based diet up to 0–7 weeks of age of broiler chicken. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

1. Nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolisable energy values (AME N ) of three varieties of sorghum (white—low tannin, brown—medium tannin and red—high tannin) were measured in three species of poultry (cockerel, guinea fowl and Japanese quail) by a practical diet replacement (total collection) method. 2. Each variety of sorghum was tested at two concentrations (200 and 400&ThickSpace;g/kg of reference diet) in 6 replications with one cockerel or guinea fowl or two quails per replication. The duration of the trial included a 10&ThickSpace;d preliminary feeding period (on conventional grower diet) followed by a 12&ThickSpace;d adaptation period (on reference and test diets) and a 3&ThickSpace;d balance period (with recording of feed intake and excreta output). 3. The calculated AME N values of different sorghum varieties were: white—12.9, 12.8 and 12.7; brown—12.7, 12.3 and 12.6; and red—11.4, 11.1 and 11.6&ThickSpace;MJ/kg for cockerels, guinea fowls and quails, respectively. The mean AME N value of red sorghum (11.3&ThickSpace;MJ/kg) was significantly lower than those of brown (12.5&ThickSpace;MJ/kg) or white sorghum (12.8&ThickSpace;MJ/kg). A negative correlation was observed between tannin concentration and AME N . 4. There was no significant difference in the AME N values of white, brown and red sorghum varieties to the different poultry species. AME N values of sorghum for the cockerel could, therefore, be used in practical feed formulation for guinea fowl and quail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe 3 C nanorod filled inside carbon nanotube has been irradiated inside transmission electron microscope at both room and high temperature. In-situ response of Fe 3 C nanorod as well as CNT walls has been studied. It has been found that when electron irradiation is performed at room temperature (RT), nanorod first bends and then tip makes at the end whereas at high temperature (∼490 °C) nanorod slides along the tube axis and then transforms into a faceting particle. Extrusion of solid particle filled in the core of CNT has also been demonstrated. It is suggested that these morphological changes in nanorod may have happened due to the compression which was generated either by shrinkage of tube or by local electron beam heating. Presented results demonstrate that CNT core could be used as nano-container or reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]