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Electron pairs have an illustrious history in chemistry, from powerful concepts to understanding structural stability and reactive changes to the promise of serving as building blocks of quantitative descriptions of the electronic structure of complex molecules and materials. However, traditionally, two-electron wavefunctions (geminals) have not enjoyed the popularity and widespread use of the more standard single-particle methods. This has changed recently, with a renewed interest in the development of geminal wavefunctions as an alternative to describing strongly correlated phenomena. Hence, there is a need to find geminal methods that are accurate, computationally tractable, and do not demand significant input from the user (particularly via cumbersome and often ill-behaved orbital optimization steps). Here, we propose new families of geminal wavefunctions inspired by the pair coupled cluster doubles ansatz. We present a new hierarchy of two-electron wavefunctions that extends the one-reference orbital idea to other geminals. Moreover, we show how to incorporate single-like excitations in this framework without leaving the quasiparticle picture. We explore the role of imposing seniority restrictions on these wavefunctions and benchmark these new methods on model strongly correlated systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is a complex condition characterized by temporary constriction of the brain's arteries. Diagnosis typically involves a retrospective approach, necessitating repeated imaging to confirm the resolution of cerebral arterial spasms. We describe a case of a 22-year-old female with a history of posterior circulation stroke and recurrent thunderclap headaches. On imaging, evidence of stroke, convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage, and multiple areas of stenosis and dilatation in the posterior circulation associated with normal laboratory parameters were found. The resolution of clinical symptoms and angiographic findings were noted in the follow-up. After other diagnoses are excluded, patients can be reassured about favorable prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotic intracranial aneurysms (MIAs) are rare but can cause significant morbidity and mortality due to rupture. Most patients have additional systemic medical comorbidities making endovascular treatment a vital modality in the treatment of these aneurysms. We aimed to share our institutional experience with the role of endovascular therapy in the treatment of mycotic aneurysms with a literature review. We conducted a retrospective review of our patient database to identify individuals diagnosed with MIAs who underwent endovascular intervention at our institution between January 2002 and December 2021. We have found three patients with ruptured MIAs. All three patients had a heart disease with infective endocarditis. Two patients presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in which, one had a rebleed resulting in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the third patient initially presented with ICH. Distal anterior cerebral artery (ACA) was the site of MIA in two cases and distal middle cerebral artery (MCA) in one patient. Two patients were treated with simple coiling and one patient was treated by glue (n-butyl cyanoacrylate [NBCAs]) injection within the aneurysm. There was no periprocedural complication with complete obliteration of the aneurysm and preservation of the parent artery. All the patients had good outcomes on follow-up. Two patients had a modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0 at 6 months and one patient had an mRS score of 3 at the end of 3 months whose preprocedure mRS score was 5. Endovascular embolization of MIAs with coils or liquid embolic agents can be performed in critically ill patients and is an excellent treatment modality with high occlusion rates and low procedural complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posterior fossa congenital pial arteriovenous fistulas are rare vascular anomalies associated with high morbidity. These anomalies often present challenges to neurointerventionists due to their complex morphological features. We successfully treated two technically challenging, infratentorial large pial arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) associated with complete flow steal in the basilar artery. The first case involved an 18-year-old male with a posterior fossa single-hole AVF characterized by dilated venous pouches and retrograde venous reflux. After an unsuccessful initial coiling attempt, this patient was treated using a double microcatheter coiling technique, supported by a large balloon for flow control. The second case involved a 9-month-old infant with a complex two-hole posterior fossa pial AVF and a large venous sac. This patient was treated with coil embolization of the fistula and with balloon protection of the vertebrobasilar junction. Both patients recovered without postoperative complications and showed significant improvement on follow-up. These cases provide valuable insights into the management and characteristics of pial arteriovenous fistulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Background: Cardiometabolic disorders, notably primary hypertension and type 2 diabetes, present substantial global health challenges. The intricate interplay between metabolic and cardiovascular pathways has prompted extensive research into molecular mechanisms linking these conditions. The adipokine Retinol Binding Protein 4 (RBP4), initially recognized for retinol transport, has emerged as a potential biomarker in the network of metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunction. Recent studies implicate RBP4 in insulin resistance and its complications, including hypertension. This study explores RBP4 dynamics in patients with primary hypertension and type 2 diabetes, aiming to contribute valuable insights into diagnostic and therapeutic advancements in managing these interconnected disorders. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted over 2 years in a tertiary healthcare centre of North India, aimed to investigate the serum concentration of Retinol Binding Protein 4 (RBP4) in 119 participants diagnosed with primary hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Ethical guidelines were strictly followed, and comprehensive clinical assessments, including blood pressure measurements, were performed. RBP4 levels were quantified using an ELISA kit, alongside markers of insulin resistance. Statistical analyses, involving t-tests and correlation assessments, sought to unravel potential associations between RBP4, insulin resistance, and blood pressure parameters using SPSS 20.0. Results: The study comprised 61 healthy control (HC) participants and 58 individuals diagnosed with both essential hypertension and type 2 diabetes (EH+T2D). EH+T2D participants were on average older (45.71 ± 9.29 years vs. 40.34 ± 9.47 years, P = 0.002). Dyslipidemia prevalence was markedly higher in EH+T2D (72.4% vs. 11.4%, P < 0.0001), accompanied by disrupted lipid profiles. Serum RBP4 concentration was significantly elevated in EH+T2D (49.17 ± 19.37 mg/L, P < 0.0001), suggesting its potential role in the shared pathophysiology of primary hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed associations between RBP4 levels, metabolic, and cardiovascular parameters, underscoring its potential as a link between these conditions. Conclusion: Elevated serum RBP4 levels suggest its potential as a novel biomarker in the shared pathophysiology of primary hypertension and type 2 diabetes. The correlation analysis highlights the intricate interplay between metabolic, lipid, and cardiovascular parameters, emphasizing the need for holistic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in humans. Most strokes are ischemic in nature and early recanalization of occluded vessels determines good outcomes. Recanalization of occluded vessels depends on many angiographic and demographic features. These factors need to be identified for better patient overall outcomes. Better preoperative knowledge of factors can help in customizing our treatment approach and explaining the prognosis to the guardians of the patients. We aim to share our institutional experience with mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for stroke and studied factors that affect an angiographic recanalization of vessels. A retrospective single-center study was conducted involving 104 patients who underwent MT at our institution between January 2016 and December 2019. Patient demographics, baseline characteristics, pre- and postprocedural imaging findings, and other clinical data were meticulously reviewed. We divided patients into successful recanalization (modified thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia [mTICI] 2b or 3) and unsuccessful recanalization (mTICI 2a or 1) groups and various factors were analyzed to evaluate their impact on recanalization rates. In the univariate analysis, a significant association was observed between successful recanalization and several factors: the absence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) as a risk factor (p = 0.035), the presence of a hyperdense vessel sign (p = 0.003), and the use of treatment methods including aspiration (p = 0.031), stent retriever (p = 0.001), and Solumbra (p = 0.019). However, in the multivariate analysis, none of these factors exhibited statistical significance. The presence of RHD is a risk factor associated with poor angiographic recanalization in all three MT treatment modalities. Based on the above variables we can guide the patients/relatives prior to MT procedure for their better outcome and risk–benefit ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the study of genetic diversity at the molecular level and species relationships among plant genera, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sections, particularly ITS2 of nuclear DNA, are recommended. Based on ITS sequences and their secondary structures, we looked at the species relationships and intraspecific variations among 221 different germplasm representing crop wild relatives (CWR) of Asian Vigna species (subgenus Ceratotropis; genus Vigna) in India. The distinctness of various Asian Vigna species was supported by the significant nucleotide and haplotype diversity among populations and the maximum parsimony tree based on ITS2 barcode. The nucleotide sequences obtained from ITS2 data of Asian Vigna species showed remarkable variations in nucleotide composition and sequence length. A total of forty haplotypes were found within the 221 diverse accessions of Vigna species. Our findings suggest that ITS2 secondary structure analysis and haplotype diversity is an effective and trustworthy method for examining the genetic diversity of Asian Vigna species. Additionally, the secondary structures of ITS2 offered a different molecular standard for defining species in Asian Vigna. The interspecific variation and species relationships of the Asian Vigna species are better understood as a result of the current study, which opens up new possibilities for the management and conservation of CWR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulses are the integral part of many diets across the globe and they have great potential to improve human health, conserve our soils, protect the environment and contribute to global food security. India is the largest producer, consumer and importer of the pulses in the world. Pigeonpea is an important pulse crop that plays an important role in the food and nutritional security of people in the developing countries and contributing to protein intake. It is a soil building crop and being a leguminous crop, fixes atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic fixation, there by helps in N cycling within the ecosystem. Methods: Cluster frontline demonstrations on BDN 711 variety of pigeonpea were conducted bsy Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khamgaon of Beed District, Maharashtra State. Cluster frontline demonstration of pigeonpea variety BDN 711 were conducted during 2019-20 to 2022-23 on 80 ha area in 200 number of total demonstrations. Pigeonpea variety BDN 711 released by Vasantarao Naik Marathada Krishi Vidyapeeth is resistant to wilt, drought tolerant and suitable for medium type of soils. Improved cultivation practices were demonstrated at farmer’s field for four consecutive years by active participation of farmers with an objective of improved technologies of pigeonpea production potentials. Result: The result of the demonstrations concluded that an average yield of pigeonpea under improved technology ranged from 1430 kg/ha to 1800 kg/ha with a mean 1664 kg/ha; which was 30.61 per cent higher over farmers practice (1274 kg/ha). Morever, average yield recorded was higher under demonstrations over district and state average. The study exhibited mean extension gap of 391 kg/ha, mean technology gap 535 kg/ha with mean technology index 25.23 per cent. Higher mean net return of Rs. 71912/ha with mean B:C ratio 2.36 was obtained with improved technologies in comparison to farmers practice. The results clearly indicated that the beneficial impact of front line demonstrations over the farmers practices towards enhancing the productivity of pigeonpea cultivation in Beed district of Maharashtra state, India. Demonstrated technologies proved more remunerative and economically viable compared to farmers traditional practices in pigeonpea cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater measurements using surface nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) have been notoriously challenged by a poor signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), but a new steady-state methodology based on long, high duty cycle, phase-locked pulse trains have demonstrated huge SNR increases. The hardware requirements for transmitters for steady-state surface NMR are significantly increased compared to transmitters for standard surface NMR use, due to the need for very high pulse-to-pulse stability over long survey times and the increased thermal load caused by a much higher duty cycle. Further, the increased SNR leads to increased production rates, which necessitates lightweight equipment, that can be carried easily between many field sites during surveys. Here we demonstrate a novel steady-state surface NMR transmitter with a maximum 93 A peak current. The stability of the transmitter is evaluated on 10 minutes, 10% duty cycle, pulse trains containing pulses of either 5 ms, 10 ms, 20 ms, or 40 ms duration, and low or high current. We observe less than 150 ns pulse-to-pulse timing jitter and amplitude variations below 0.4% between pulses for all pulse durations and currents. During tests, we observed no temperature effects on the timing and current stability. We have designed a customized heatsink, which reduces the transmitter weight by 30% and size by 16% without compromising safe thermal operating conditions. We evaluate the capacitor bank size and current stability and demonstrate that a 10 mF capacitor bank is an appropriate trade-off with insignificant current drooping in measurements. The extensive analysis and verification demonstrate that the transmitter generates highly stable pulse trains resulting in high SNR signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes a rapid synthesis of Co 1-x Cu x Fe 2 O 4 nanoparticles using sol–gel auto-ignition and the produced materials were examined using different techniques such as XRD (X-Ray Diffraction), UV–Vis (Ultraviolet–visible), (FTIR Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), FE-SEM (Field emission scanning electron microscopy), and EDS (Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) to explore their structural, optical, and functional group morphological properties, and elemental analysis. Additionally, utilizing several gamma-ray sources and a NaI (Tl) scintillation detector, we studied the gamma-ray shielding characteristics for the prepared materials. Experimental results were validated by the results of XCOM program and the Geant4 simulations. For four chosen ferrites, the gamma ray energy absorption build-up factor is investigated at 0.01–15 MeV incident photon energy and penetration depths of 1–40 mean free path, mfp, using the geometric progression fitting technique. Ferrite samples can be employed as radiation attenuators across a range of nuclear domains, as per the findings of this study. In comparison to the other spinel ferrites, the Co 1-x Cu x Fe 2 O 4 (x = 0.75) ferrite demonstrated superior shielding capabilities. Important details regarding the physio-chemical properties of spinel ferrites and their ability to shield against gamma radiation are provided in the present study. • Co 1-x Cu x Fe 2 O 4 nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol–gel procedure. • The photon and neutron shielding properties for ferrites were studied. • Co 1-x Cu x Fe 2 O 4 (x = 0.75) ferrite demonstrated superior shielding capabilities. • Details regarding the physio-chemical properties of spinel ferrites have been given. • Ferrite samples can be employed as radiation attenuators in nuclear domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Labrune syndrome is an uncommon central nervous system disorder characterized by leukoencephalopathy, cerebral calcifications, and cysts on brain imaging. The basic pathology is microangiopathy resulting from a mutation in the SNORD118 gene. Radiological imaging is the hallmark of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The invasive barnacle scale, Ceroplastes cirripediformis Comstock (Hemiptera: Coccidae), is a pest native to South America and the Caribbean islands that has recently emerged as a serious threat to agricultural, horticultural, ornamental, medicinal, and aromatic plants. Finding indigenous natural enemies to control the invasive pests is the first step for developing a biological control program. Results: The present study reports Eublemma scitula (Rambur) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) for the first time as a predator of C. cirripediformis in India. The identity of E. scitula was confirmed morphologically based on male genitalia and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (mt COI) gene sequences. E. scitula larvae were found as dominant predators of C. cirripediformis. The predatory activity of E. scitula was observed from June to September, with its peak population recorded during mid-July (2.1 larvae per 25 cm of infested shoot). Conclusion: This is the first global record of E. scitula predating on an invasive barnacle scale insects from India. Furthermore, studies on the feeding potential of E. scitula under controlled and field conditions need to be evaluated for utilizing them as a biocontrol agent against C. cirripediformis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient, and simple protocol for the synthesis of extremely functionalized pyrano[3,2‐c]chromen‐5‐ones (4 a–v) has been developed. One‐pot multicomponent cyclo‐condensation of 4‐hydroxycoumarin, aromatic‐aldehydes, and (E)‐N‐methyl‐1‐(methylthio)‐2‐nitroethenamine (NMSM) catalyzed by ionic liquid [(EMIM)Ac] in two different methods as methanolic mediated and at solvent free condition is described which presumably involve the Knoevenagel reaction succeeding Michael‐addition and O‐cyclization with elimination of methanethiol. The noteworthy features of this protocol are use of ionic liquid as catalyst, good to excellent yield, optimum reaction time with easy experimental procedure. The prepared derivatives were characterized by IR, 1HNMR,13CNMR and HRMS spectroscopic techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India ranks second in the harvesting and production of fish. The discard of fish is near about 20–40% of total fish weight. Therefore, a huge amount of fish waste is being generated, leading to the need for its better utilization. Protein hydrolysates from Indian mackerel fish waste were made by extracting protein using alkali and hydrolyzing them with the alcalase enzyme. For protein extraction and hydrolysis processes, factors such as temperature, stirring speed, pH, time, solvent load, and enzyme concentrations were optimized using empirical equations with response surface methodology. A protein yield of 75% was recorded to be the highest at a solvent load of 64%, at 490 rpm stirring speed, and for a time duration of 80 min. Alcalase enzyme showed the highest degree of hydrolysis, i.e., 71.72%, at an enzyme to substrate concentration of 40 U/mL, at 50 °C with pH 7.7 for 40 min. Fish waste protein hydrolysates having a high antioxidant and anti-hypertensive activity were successfully prepared from the waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Ni–Cu–Zn Fe 2 O 4 ferrite nanoparticles have successfully been synthesized utilizing the Co-precipitation technique. The primary objectives encompassed elucidating phase purity, discerning functional groups, scrutinizing surface morphology, and conducting structural analyses. To accomplish these objectives, a battery of advanced characterization techniques was employed, including power X-ray diffraction, Transmission infrared spectroscopy, UV–Visible spectrophotometer, and Scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the investigation was extended to the assessment of the gamma ray shielding properties exhibited by the synthesized Ni–Cu–Zn Fe 2 O 4 nanoparticles, spanning an energy range from 122 keV to 1330 keV. This evaluation was carried out through the utilization of a NaI(Tl) detector coupled with a PC-based multichannel analyzer. The acquired data were meticulously compared with established theoretical value. The results of this study point to a viable route for using this simple, cost-effective, and low-temperature synthesis approach to create nanomaterials suited for gamma ray shielding applications, as well as broader radiation protection. This novel technique has the potential to significantly improve radiation shielding technology. Along with this fast neutron attenuation capability of this prepared ferrite samples have been studied in terms of fast neutron removal cross section. • Ni–Cu–Zn Fe2O4 ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized utilizing the Co-precipitation technique. • Material preparation was confirmed using XRD, SEM, and FTIR. • The gamma ray and neutron shielding properties for ferrite materials were studied. • The experimental values have been supported with XCOM results. • Measured data are useful in nuclear medicine application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basilar artery fenestration aneurysms are very rare and endovascular management of large and complex aneurysms is extremely challenging. Most of these type of cases are managed with stent assisted coiling, dual flow diverters (FD) and single FD with additional coiling of aneurysm and occlusion of one of the vertebral artery. Here, we report a case of large complex basilar artery fenestration aneurysm successfully treated with single FD using novel technique called "crossing flow diverter technique" without any additional coiling of aneurysm or occlusion of vertebral artery. Using this technique cost of procedure and procedural complexity inherent with other above mentioned techniques can be significantly reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is becoming expeditiously advancing field which inculcates an extensive range of disciplines within it. The astonishing resemblances in the aspects of nanomaterial's with those of biological macromolecules have adjoined interesting aspects to its uses in biological systems involving cell and developmental biology. The implementation of nanotechnology is procuring immense response in biology due to its potentiality to avoid barrier that are otherwise connected with conventional methods. In the upcoming years, the advancement in this area is sensed to develop and show potent lifesaving medical advancing technologies and treatment methods. In addition to the conventional methods, nanotechnology-based tools are advanced for knowing about the multifaceted characteristic of cell and developmental biology and assist us to solve some of the issues linked with it. Some of the examples involve Nano sensors that can identify minute changes in metabolites or messenger molecules within cells, nanomaterial based bio imaging tool whic h are more methodical in comparison to traditional organic dyes and Nano carriers which support in targeted drug delivery reign. Targeted delivery of therapeutic and imaging agents performs an important role in prior diagnosis and intensifies therapeutic effect to overcome the side effects connected with conventional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is one of the most important crops in the world. The wild species of rice are expected to have novel beneficial alleles that have been lost from cultivated rice during the process of domestication. Therefore, wild species could be the potential source to induce lost genetic diversity in cultivated rice. Serving as an important reservoir of novel genes/QTLs, wild species, in general, are better adapted to different ecologies and can tolerate many biotic and abiotic stresses. Despite that, only a few wild species are studied and extensive characterization both at the molecular and morphological level is yet to be achieved. Several agronomically important genes/QTLs for improving biotic and abiotic stresses, resistance, productivity and grain quality traits were identified from AA genome donor wild species and were tagged with breeder friendly molecular markers for their transfer to elite genetic backgrounds. The present review provides information on the important wild rice species harbouring genes/QTLs for agriculturally important traits and their successful utilization in rice breeding programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gamma-radiation shielding capabilities of a Ni 0.2 Mg x Zn 0.8-x Fe 2 O 4 nanocrystal, synthesized using the sol-gel auto-ignition process, were described in the present investigation. The synthesized materials were analyzed using different techniques such as XRD, UV–Vis, FTIR, FE-SEM, and EDS to investigate their structural, optical, and functional group morphological properties, and elemental analysis. Additionally, utilizing various gamma-ray sources and a NaI (Tl) scintillation detector, we investigated the gamma-ray shielding parameters for the prepared materials. The cubic spinel structure of all produced Nanoferrites is clear from X-ray diffractograms, which show no contaminated phases. Pellets of nanocrystalline spinel ferrites have been exposed to gamma radiation from various sources by varying the intensity of the radiation dose. Utilizing Phy-X/PSD Software, a comparative analysis of the mass and linear attenuation coefficients, mean free path, half value layer, tenth value layer, effective atomic number, and effective electron density for synthesized spinel ferrites is performed at 122–1330 keV. Using the geometric progression (G-P) fitting technique, the gamma-ray energy absorption build-up factor (EABF) for four selected ferrites is explored at incident photon energy levels ranging from 0.015 to 15 MeV. It is found that the Compton scattering process is mostly responsible for the EABF maximum in an intermediate region. K1 has a higher EABF value than other ferrites, which is largely determined by the crystallite size effect and the chemical composition of the material. There is a good agreement between the theoretical and experimental results. Among the studied samples, sample K1 and K4 have superior gamma-ray and fast neutron attenuation capabilities respectively than its counterparts. The current study offers a thorough examination of the chosen iron oxides in the context of gamma and neutron radiation. • The values of μ m , μ, Z eff , λ, HVL, TVL were determined experimentally using NaI (Tl) detector. • Experimental results have been supported with Phy-X/PSD Software values. • The energy absorption buildup factor have been calculated using G.P. fitting method. • The values of macroscopic removal cross-sections for neutrons were determined. • Measured data in mixed neutron-gamma radiation field are useful in nuclear medicine application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater measurements using surface nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) have been notoriously challenged by a poor signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), but a new steady-state methodology based on long, high duty cycle, phase-locked pulse trains have demonstrated huge SNR increases. The hardware requirements for transmitters for steady-state surface NMR are significantly increased compared to transmitters for standard surface NMR use, due to the need for very high pulse-to-pulse stability over long survey times and the increased thermal load caused by a much higher duty cycle. Further, the increased SNR leads to increased production rates, which necessitates lightweight equipment, that can be carried easily between many field sites during surveys. Here we demonstrate a novel steady-state surface NMR transmitter with a maximum 93 A peak current. The stability of the transmitter is evaluated on 10 minutes, 10% duty cycle, pulse trains containing pulses of either 5 ms, 10 ms, 20 ms, or 40 ms duration, and low or high current. We observe less than 150 ns pulse-to-pulse timing jitter and amplitude variations below 0.4% between pulses for all pulse durations and currents. During tests, we observed no temperature effects on the timing and current stability. We have designed a customized heatsink, which reduces the transmitter weight by 30% and size by 16% without compromising safe thermal operating conditions. We evaluate the capacitor bank size and current stability and demonstrate that a 10 mF capacitor bank is an appropriate trade-off with insignificant current drooping in measurements. The extensive analysis and verification demonstrate that the transmitter generates highly stable pulse trains resulting in high SNR signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introgression Lines (ILs) carrying alien genomic segments in the homozygous state may or may not be able to contribute positively to the phenotype on account of replacement of cultivated genome segment, however, the genetic elite in heterozygous condition can be attributed to the presence of both recipient and donor genome complements. Therefore, overdominance or pseudo‐overdominance effect at the heterozygous loci is anticipated. Set of 318 ILs, carrying several genomic segments from "A" genome donor wild species, were used for developing test hybrids with CMS line PMS17A. Of these, three hybrids observed significant yield advantage (>25%) over recurrent parents and checks. Parental ILs of these hybrids viz., IL326, IL901 and IL951 carried 5.62%, 2.52% introgression from Oryza rufipogon and 6.71% from Oryza nivara, respectively. These ILs were also crossed with their recurrent parent to develop introgression line hybrids (ILHs) to observe the contribution of the alien segment(s), in the homozygous and heterozygous state. The traits studied have higher mean value when genomic segments from wild species were in the heterozygous state as compared to the homozygous state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell migration is regulated by several mechanotransduction pathways, which consist of sensing and converting mechanical microenvironmental cues to internal biochemical cellular signals, such as protein phosphorylation and lipid signaling. While there has been significant progress in understanding protein changes in the context of mechanotransduction, lipid signaling is more difficult to investigate. In this study, physical cues of stiffness (10, 100, 400 kPa, and glass), and microrod or micropost topography were manipulated in order to reprogram primary fibroblasts and assess the effects of lipid signaling on the actin cytoskeleton. In an in vitro wound closure assay, primary cardiac fibroblast migration velocity was significantly higher on soft polymeric substrata. Modulation of PIP2 availability through neomycin treatment nearly doubled migration velocity on 10 kPa substrata, with significant increases on all stiffnesses. The distance between focal adhesions and the lamellar membrane (using wortmannin treatment to increase PIP2 via PI3K inhibition) was significantly shortest compared to untreated fibroblasts grown on the same surface. PIP2 localized to the leading edge of migrating fibroblasts more prominently in neomycin-treated cells. The membranebound protein, lamellipodin, did not vary under any condition. Additionally, fifteen micron-high micropost topography, which blocks migration, concentrates PIP2 near to the post. Actin dynamics within stress fibers, measured by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, was not significantly different with stiffness, microtopography, nor with drug treatment. PIP2-modulating drugs delivered from microrod structures also affected migration velocity. Thus, manipulation of the microenvironment and lipid signaling regulatory drugs might be beneficial in improving therapeutics geared toward wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cryptic nature and lack of consistent biological control of the stem fly, Melanagromyza sojae Zehntner, an emerging pest of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merrill, necessitated the monitoring and assessment of the impact of the parasitoid complex on seasonal regulation of the pest population. In this paper, we measure and relate, using the host density as a predictor variable, the seasonal density dependence of M. sojae parasitoids and the level of parasitism in soybean fields. The results revealed density dependence of parasitioids. The populations built up concomitant with the host insect, reached their peak during the mid-season, and declined towards the end of the crop season. A complex of 10 species of hymenopteran parasitoids comprising six species from Pteromalidae and one species each from the families Eurytomitidae, Eucoilidae, Braconidae and Eulopidae had a significant impact on M. sojae populations with a peak parasitism of ~50%. The seasonality and relative abundance of parasitoids were explored. Eurytoma sp. (Eurytomitidae) and Gronotoma sp. (Eucoilidae) were the most prevalent parasitoids throughout the season, whereas the pteromalid Sphegigaster sp. was dominant during the mid-season. The modulation of management practices aimed at conservation of these bioagents could improve the biological control of M. sojae populations. We discuss the practicality of several management options aimed at achieving this goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PyCI is a free and open-source Python library for setting up and running arbitrary determinant-driven configuration interaction (CI) computations, as well as their generalizations to cases where the coefficients of the determinant are nonlinear functions of optimizable parameters. PyCI also includes functionality for computing the residual correlation energy, along with the ability to compute spin-polarized one- and two-electron (transition) reduced density matrices. PyCI was originally intended to replace the ab initio quantum chemistry functionality in the HORTON library but emerged as a standalone research tool, primarily intended to aid in method development, while maintaining high performance so that it is suitable for practical calculations. To this end, PyCI is written in Python, adopting principles of modern software development, including comprehensive documentation, extensive testing, continuous integration/delivery protocols, and package management. Computationally intensive steps, notably operations related to generating Slater determinants and computing their expectation values, are delegated to low-level C++ code. This article marks the official release of the PyCI library, showcasing its functionality and scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CeropegiaevansiiMcCann (family: Asclepiadaceae), a critically endangered plant of Western Ghats has acquired significant importance due to its medicinal implications, edible tubers, and ornamental flowers. This study deals with the optimization of axillary bud proliferation using nodal explants followed by genetic stability analysis of regenerants. Maximum number of shoots (11.6 ± 1.1) was observed on the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (4.0 mg/l) and indole-3-acetic acid (0.3 mg/l) with 85% shoot multiplication frequency.In vitro-grown shoots were rooted best in 1/2 MS medium supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid (1.0 mg/l) with an average of 10.3 ± 0.9 roots per shoot and 92% rooting frequency. Plantlets were acclimatized best (90%) in a mixture of sterile soil, sand, and coco peat (1:2:1). Micropropagated plants were subjected to random amplified polymorphic DNA and inter simple sequence repeat markers analyses. Collectively, 759 bands were generated which were monomorphic and similar to the mother plant. Findings of this study are the first report on micropropagation and assessment of genetic stability of micropropagated plantlets inC. evansiiwhich suggests that axillary shoot proliferation can safely be used as an effective tool for propagation and conservation ofC. evansii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological advancements in healthcare, production, automobile, and aviation industries have shifted working styles from manual to automatic. This automation requires smart, intellectual, and safe machinery to develop an accurate and efficient brain–computer interface (BCI) system. However, developing such BCI systems requires effective processing and analysis of human physiology. Electroencephalography (EEG) is one such technique that provides a low-cost, portable, non-invasive, and safe solution for BCI systems. However, the non-stationary and nonlinear nature of EEG signals makes it difficult for experts to perform accurate subjective analyses. Hence, there is an urgent need for the development of automatic mental state detection. This paper presents the classification of three mental states using an ensemble of the tunable Q wavelet transform, the multilevel discrete wavelet transform, and the flexible analytic wavelet transform. Various features are extracted from the subbands of EEG signals during focused, unfocused, and drowsy states. Separate and fused features from ensemble decomposition are classified using an optimized ensemble classifier. Our analysis shows that the fusion of features results in a dimensionality reduction. The proposed model obtained the highest accuracies of 92.45% and 97.8% with ten-fold cross-validation and the iterative majority voting technique. The proposed method is suitable for real-time mental state detection to improve BCI systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hypertension is the most common medical problem encountered during pregnancy. Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) is also called a disease of maternal endothelium. Nitric-oxide being a potent vasodilator released by endothelial cells, its role has been implicated in PIH. Aim: To study the role of reactive nitrogen species in PIH. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty samples were selected for the study. Of these, 60 patients had PIH (case) and the rest without PIH (control). Estimation of serum nitricoxide, serum nitrothiol, serum total thiol was done. Results: The study showed decreased NOx (Mono nitrogen oxide No and No2) levels in PIH as compared to control (p<0.001). PIH patients had significantly higher levels of S-nitrothiols than control (p<0.01). Thiol levels were decreased in PIH as compared to control (p<0.001). Conclusion: Thus, it is concluded from this study that nitrosative stress represents a point of convergence for several contributing factors potentially leading to the clinical manifestations of pregnancy induced hypertension. The antioxidants are used up while scavenging the free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

pH, salinity and nutrient conditions are major determinants of microbial biomass, activity and community composition; all being hypothesized to favour bacterial over fungal activity. Soils from Pravaranagar (India), having high nutrient content and high pH (pH w 7.4–8.8), with sometimes increased salinity, were thus expected to have high bacterial/fungal ratios. Twelve soils were characterized for microbial growth, biomass, community structure and nutrient limitation. The phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) pattern was typical for high pH soils, with relative high amounts of several unsaturated PLFAs, like 18:ω7, and relatively low in e.g. cy19:0. The adaptation to high pH was also seen in the bacterial community tolerance to pH, with optimum pH for growth around pH 7.5. The high pH had resulted in soils with high bacterial but low fungal growth. However, adding substrate conducive for fungal growth, like straw, could induce fungal growth. Some soils had high electric conductivity, indicating salinization. The bacterial community had developed increased tolerance to NaCl in these soils. These soils also differed in the PLFA pattern, suggesting that saline soils had more fungal biomass. In all soils bacterial growth was limited by lack of carbon, but secondary limitation due to nitrogen was also found, while phosphorus addition did not affect growth. The high nutrient condition was evident in more than 5-fold increases in bacterial growth in some soils when adding only C. We could thus show that in these soils, high pH, salinity and nutrient conditions all had affected soil microbial activity and community structure. Although the high pH favoured bacteria, this was, however, not found for high salinity soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilization of “hidden genes” from wild species has emerged as a novel option for enrichment of genetic diversity for productivity traits. In rice we have generated more than 2000 lines having introgression from ‘A’ genome-donor wild species of rice in the genetic background of popular varieties PR114 and Pusa44 were developed. Out of these, based on agronomic acceptability, 318 lines were used for developing rice hybrids to assess the effect of introgressions in heterozygous state. These introgression lines and their recurrent parents, possessing fertility restoration ability for wild abortive (WA) cytoplasm, were crossed with cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) line PMS17A to develop hybrids. Hybrids developed from recurrent parents were used as checks to compare the performance of 318 hybrids developed by hybridizing alien introgression lines with PMS17A. Seventeen hybrids expressed a significant increase in yield and its component traits over check hybrids. These 17 hybrids were re-evaluated in large-size replicated plots. Of these, four hybrids, viz., ILH299, ILH326, ILH867 and ILH901, having introgressions from O. rufipogon and two hybrids (ILH921 and ILH951) having introgressions from O. nivara showed significant heterosis over parental introgression line, recurrent parents and check hybrids for grain yield-related traits. Alien introgressions were detected in the lines taken as male parents for developing six superior hybrids, using a set of 100 polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Percent introgression showed a range of 2.24 from in O. nivara to 7.66 from O. rufipogon. The introgressed regions and their putative association with yield components in hybrids is reported and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. 3D Rotational Angiography (RA) is indispensable for evaluation of intracranial aneurysms, providing infinite viewing angles and defining the aneurysm morphology. Its role in follow-up of clipped aneurysms remains unclear. We aimed to compare the aneurysm residue/recurrence detection rate of 3D RA with 2D digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Methods. 47 patients harboring 54 clipped aneurysms underwent both 2D DSA and 3D RA. The residual/recurrent aneurysms were classified into five grades and the images of both modalities were compared. Results. The residual/recurrent aneurysm detection rate was 53.70% (29/54 aneurysms) with 2D DSA and 66.67% (36/54 aneurysms) with 3D RA (P = 0.05). In 12 aneurysms, 3D RA upgraded the residue/recurrence among which nine had been completely not detected on 2D DSA and were found to have grade one or two residual necks on the 3D RA, and, in three cases, a small neck on 2D DSA turned out to be aneurysm sac on 3D RA. In a total of 5 aneurysms, the classification was downgraded by 3D RA. Conclusion. 3D RA picks up more aneurysm residue/recurrence; hence, both 2D DSA and 3D RA should be performed in follow-up evaluation of clipped aneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Micropropagation system developed for C. panchganiensis. [•] Phytohormones affected the various in vitro responses. [•] First illustration of utility of RAPD and ISSR markers for assessing genetic stability in genus Ceropegia. [•] First report of propagation and genetic stability analysis of C. panchganiensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of present work was to assess the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of various extracts of three Ceropegia spp.: Ceropegia spiralis, Ceropegia panchganiensis and Ceropegia evansii from Western Ghats of India. TPC of the samples varied from 0.3±0.2 to 28.5±0.3mg TAE/g FW, whereas, TFC of the samples ranged between 0.1±0.1 and 15.3±0.3mg RE/g FW. The major phenolic compounds identified were gallic acid, vanillin, cathechol and ferulic acid. All the extracts possess 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) as well as metal chelating ability and this was also supported by significant correlation with TPC and TFC. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper presenting comprehensive data on TPC, TFC, phenolic profile and antioxidant properties of the Ceropegia spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study reports on degradation of the organophosphorus pesticide acephate by a developed bacterial consortium ER, consisting of the bacterial isolates Exiguobacterium sp. BCH4 and Rhodococcus sp. BCH2. The consortium was capable of degrading acephate up to 75.85%, with an initial concentration of 50 mg l−1 within 6 days at 30 °C under static conditions. The effect of various physicochemical parameters, such as pH, temperature, and increasing pesticide concentration on the biodegradation rate, were tested. Biodegradation was monitored by HPLC, FTIR, and GC-MS. The metabolites produced after acephate degradation were characterized and identified as O,S-dimethyl hydrogen thiophosphate (m/z 142), S-methyl dihydrogen thiophosphate (m/z 127), and methyl dihydrogen phosphate (m/z 111), by gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy. Toxicity testing of acephate and its degraded metabolites was performed using the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris as the model animal. The toxicity of acephate and its biodegradation metabolites was tested using various biochemical parameters, such as antioxidant enzyme status (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)), lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and genotoxicity assay; the eventual conclusion was that the consortium ER possessed significant potential for degradation and detoxification of acephate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article discusses a study concerning the impact of oxidative stress and ethanolic extracts on the Lysosomal and microsomal acid phosphatase activity of midgut tissue of the silkworm Bombyx mori. It is stated that the oxidative stress induced by the D-galactose was reduced by two antioxidants namely Bacopa monniera and Lactuca sativa. It further demonstrated the high effectiveness of Lacutca sativa than Bacopa monniera.

Basilar artery thrombosis has high morbidity and mortality. Though intra-arterial thrombolytics have proven efficacy in the treatment of acute basilar artery occlusion, the elevation of procoagulant factors in the blood after intra-arterial thrombolysis could result in subsequent thrombus formation and clinical deterioration. Glycoprotein IIb/ IIIa inhibitors have been shown to reduce this elevation in procoagulants. We present a pilot study of three cases of acute basilar artery occlusion treated with a combination of intra-arterial thrombolytics and Gp IIb/IIIa inhibitor with remarkable clinical recovery seen in all the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.), introduced into India about 400 years ago, is distributed widely in the coastal regions as spontaneous populations as well as in cultivation. Despite the plant&x2019;s commercial exploitation, little is known about its actual introduction and diversification. We attempted to construct these events by investigating the level of genetic variation and genetic structure of cashew populations collected from different geographical regions of India. A total of 91 individuals from four populations were analysed using AFLP markers and morphometric data. AFLP analysis based on 354 polymorphic loci revealed Indian cashew to have low but relatively substantial genetic diversity for an introduced species (HE = 0.262 and IS = 0.404). Twenty-seven qualitative and quantitative traits also revealed the existence of considerable morphometric variation (24% around the mean values). Bayesian cluster analysis based on AFLP data did not indicate the existence of definite population differentiation. Morphometric analysis allocated 12% variation among all four populations, whereas AFLP variation observed in cashew individuals was entirely within populations. The results, supporting the possibility of cashew having been introduced into India repeatedly over a period of time but at a single location (west coast), are discussed and their implications for germplasm management are described. La noix de cajou (Anacardium occidentale L.), une culture introduite en Inde il y a environ 400 ans, est largement distribuée dans les régions côtières sous forme de populations spontanées aussi bien que sous forme d&x2019;espèce cultivée. En dépit du succès commercial de cette plante, peu de choses sont connues au sujet de son introduction et de sa diversification. Les auteurs ont tenté de reconstruire ces événements en étudiant la variation et la structure génétiques des populations de noix de cajou provenant de différentes régions de l&x2019;Inde. Quatre-vingt-onze individus provenant de quatre populations ont été analysés à l&x2019;aide de marqueurs AFLP et de données morphologiques. L&x2019;analyse AFLP basée sur 354 locus polymorphes a révélé la présence d&x2019;une diversité génétique faible mais néanmoins relativement substantielle pour une espèce introduite (HE = 0,262 et IS = 0,404). L&x2019;examen de 27 caractères qualitatifs et quantitatifs a également révélé l&x2019;existence d&x2019;une variabilité morphologique considérable (24 % autour des moyennes). Une analyse bayesienne de groupement exploitant les données AFLP n&x2019;a pas suggéré l&x2019;existence d&x2019;une nette différenciation des populations. Les analyses morphologiques allouaient 12 % de la variation entre les quatre populations, tandis que la variation AFLP observée était entièrement confinée au sein des populations. Ces résultats, lesquels supportent l&x2019;hypothèse d&x2019;une introduction répétée de la noix de cajou en Inde mais en un seul endroit (côte ouest), sont discutés et leurs implications en matière de gestion des ressources génétiques sont décrites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monoecious bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. var. minima and maxima Williams & Ng), a cucurbit of major economic importance, is widely cultivated in India, China, Africa, and South America. Although the morphology (i.e., growth habit and fruit shape, size, color, and surface texture) of Indian bitter gourd is diverse and gynoecious sex forms exist, a comprehensive diversity assessment of ecotypes has not been performed. Therefore, the genetic relatedness of 38 Indian cultigens (commercial varieties and cultivated landraces originating from different agroecological zones) was determined by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis. Six primer combinations yielded a total of 519 bands of which 404 (77.8%) were polymorphic among the cultigens examined. Unweighted pair group cluster analyses were performed using Jaccard's genetic similarities to define genetic relationships among cultigens. Genetic similarities among cultigens ranged between 0.44 and 0.88, indicating that the bitter gourd cultigens examined were genetically diverse. Moreover, putative AFLP loci defined genetic relationships that allowed for partitioning of cultigens into two distinct groups [Group 1 and Group II (node 1); bootstrap = 100%] after cluster analysis. With rare exception, cultigens were grouped with respect to geographical region, in which cultigens within a group and subgroups possessed high degrees of genetic similarity. The relatively high marker indices (6.2 to 19.4), polymorphic information content of the markers used (0.20 to 0.25), and multiplex ratios (28.9 to 77.4) collectively indicate that the AFLP markers used are discriminatory in bitter gourd and that the analysis of the broad-based cultigens described provides valuable baseline information for advancing initial breeding strategies for this crop species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: A case report of rheumatoid arthritis involving cervical spine, who presented with multiple posterior circulation infarcts, and pertinent literature review are presented.Objective: To describe a rare positional occlusion/stasis of vertebral arteries, which resolved following application of cervical traction. The likely mechanism of above findings is proposed.Summary Of Background Data: The mechanism of vertebrobasilar insufficiency with changes in head position in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can result from a number of causes; however, bilateral compromise of vertebral arteries during head extension had been described only once. There is no report of vertebral artery angiogram in any individual following application of traction and relief of compromise in extension.Methods: A 45-year-old man had rheumatoid arthritis for the last 10 years and presented with symptoms of posterior circulation infarcts. Cervical spine radiographs revealed "mobile" atlantoaxial dislocation and atlantoaxial impaction. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed odontoid erosions, lateral masses destruction, atlantoaxial dislocation, and atlantoaxial impaction. Angiogram showed occlusion of the left vertebral artery and transient stasis of the right vertebral artery distal to foramen transversarium of C2 vertebra in extension position. The left vertebral artery had narrowing in the same segment in the neutral position. Following traction, repeat angiogram showed no occlusion or narrowing of either vertebral artery in any position. Transoral odontoidectomy and occipitocervical fusion were performed.Results: The patient had no fresh deficits following surgery.Conclusions: We described a rare case of positional occlusion/stasis of vertebral arteries associated with rheumatoid arthritis, in which angiography following cervical traction showed complete resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian cashew breeding programme has produced 24 selections and 11 hybrids with increased yield and excellent nut characters. Molecular profiles of these varieties were developed using a combination of five RAPD and four ISSR primers pre-selected for maximum discrimination and repeatability. A total of 94 markers were generated which discriminated all the varieties with a probability of identical match by chance of 2.8 × 10-11. There was no correlation between the relationships based on molecular data and the pedigree of the varieties. Narrow range of average similarity values among major cashew breeding centres with only 3.6% of molecular variance partitioned between them was attributed to the exchange of genetic material in developing varieties. Difference in the average similarity coefficients between selections and hybrids was low indicating the need and scope for identification of more parental lines in enhancing the effectiveness of hybridisation programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Understanding genetic diversity and population structure is crucial for strategizing and enhancing breeding efficiency. Wheat, a globally cultivated crop, is a significant source of daily calories for humans. To overcome challenges such as extreme climatic fluctuations, stagnant yields, and diminishing genetic variation, it is essential to develop diverse germplasms with new alleles. Triticum sphaerococcum, an underutilized ancient hexaploid wheat species, shows promise for contributing beneficial alleles. However, the genetic diversity of its germplasms remains unstudied. This is the first report where we have examined the genetic diversity and population structure of 116 T. sphaerococcum accessions using a 35 K SNP Array. The objective of this study is to apply these findings to improve wheat breeding programs. Results: Analysis of the population's genetic structure identified four potential subpopulations, which was supported by principal coordinate analysis. Allele neutrality tests showed an abundance of intermediate genotypes, suggesting that many beneficial alleles are maintained through balancing selection. Among the three subgenomes, subgenome B exhibited the highest genetic diversity. AMOVA (Analysis of Molecular Variance) revealed significant variation both among (35%) and within (65%) the four subpopulations. The high genetic differentiation between subpopulations was corroborated by a moderate level of haploid migrant numbers (Nm = 1.286), indicating sufficient gene flow. SP4 emerged as the most diverse subpopulation, showing the highest values for allelic pattern indices due to its larger size and higher percentage of polymorphic loci. The D subgenome displayed a faster linkage disequilibrium (LD) decay rate compared to the A and B subgenomes. Haplotype block analysis identified 260 haplotype blocks of varying sizes distributed across the genome. Conclusions: This research demonstrates that Indian dwarf wheat accessions, sourced from three distinct gene banks and local collections, possess considerable genetic diversity. These germplasm collections offer valuable opportunities to investigate their unexplored genetic potential. They can be utilized in wheat improvement initiatives to tackle both present and future breeding challenges. Furthermore, these accessions can introduce new alleles to broaden the genetic base of modern wheat varieties, enhancing their overall diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Climate change poses a serious threat to global food security by introducing uncertainty in production condition including water availability to growing crops. Technological intervention like improved crop adaptation and higher yield potential through breeding are immediately needed to ensure better availability of food to still growing low‐ and middle‐income societies like South Asia. Root traits, such as root system architecture, root biomass, root angle, xylem diameter, root hairs, root length and root hydraulics, are crucial for plant adaptation to variable environments, but they are often overlooked in the most of crop improvement programme because of difficulty in scoring these traits. Water banking by optimization hydraulic efficiency of vascular system through reduced root density and reduced xylem diameter can play important role for adaptation for reduced water availability. The challenges of nondestructive screening in the segregating generation hampers the genetic progress Recent advances in high‐throughput phenotyping facilities and identification of molecular markers has made the selection in breeding population feasible. This review explores how root morphology and anatomy influence water and nutrient uptake and how high‐throughput phenotyping and genotyping can facilitate the identification of root traits associated with climate resilience. As outcome of the study, we propose an ideal wheat ideotype with deep roots, narrow root angles and low axial hydraulic conductance combined with high xylem hydraulic safety in pursuit of climate‐smart wheat crops thriving under decreasing water availability throughout the growing season. In this review, we have also discussed the root‐related quantitative trait loci/genes in wheat and its related species to facilitate comparative genomic analyses and their subsequent integration in the breeding programme. The review thus highlights the potential importance of optimization of metaxylem vessel size, root biomass, root length, roots hairs and understanding soil microbiota and its interaction with different root phenes in designing the better wheat ideotypes, which can offer the potential solution to climate change in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the study which analysed genetic stability of micropropagated Ceropegia spiralis, an endangered medicinal plant found in the Western Ghats of India. It mentions that the plant undergo inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Result shows the effectiveness of ISSR and RAPD markers for assessing the plant's genetic stability and suggests that the axillary shoot bud proliferation could be used as a micropropagation tool.

An aqueous mixture of ammonium oxalate and ammonium hydroxide was used to coprecipitate barium and strontium ions as oxalates and niobium ions as hydroxide under basic conditions. This precursor on calcining at 750°C yielded Sr0⋅5Ba0⋅5Nb2O6 phase. This is a much lower temperature than that prepared by traditional solid state method (1000°C) as reported for the formation of Sr0.5Ba0.5Nb2O6 (SBN). Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) investigations revealed that the average particle size was 80 nm for the calcined powders. The room temperature dielectric constant at 1 kHz was found to be 1100. The ferroelectric hysteresis loop parameters of these samples were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of polar nanoregions with a smaller doping concentration of Sn into BaTiO3 nanostructures governs significantly better gas‐sensing response for a NO2 gas at room temperature. Appropriate Sn doping in BaTiO3 nanostructures not only modifies the electronic structure but is also responsible for diffused phase transition in its crystal structure. Here, in this study, we performed high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy of the Sn‐doped BaTiO3 samples to observe the formed polar nanoregions; 0.2 M% Sn‐doped BaTiO3 possesses a higher polarization value at room temperature to adsorb NO2 gas on the surface of the thick film resistor‐based gas sensor, improving its gas‐sensing performance. The electronic structure and density of states of pristine and Sn‐doped BaTiO3 were studied by density functional theory calculations, and the results of the same revealed improved gas‐sensing performance in the case of Sn‐doped BaTiO3 nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Seed coat polymorphism of 50 accessions belongs to five species of section Aconitifoliae were investigated. • The occurrence of interspecific variation in testa cell ornamentations and testa cell size are reported for first time. • The rDNA-ITS data supports significant interspecific variation among different accessions. The seed coat polymorphism of 50 accessions representing five species of Vigna section Aconitifoliae (subgenus Ceratotropis) was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to evaluate the interspecific and intraspecific variations of various morphoanatomical seed traits. Seed shape, hilum structure aril and testa pattern were examined. The seed coat pattern was found to be a significant character for species delimitation. The testa cell size and ornamentation showed distinctive intra- and interspecific variations across the examined species. The results revealed that the wild accessions of V. aconitifolia (I-aco and II-aco), V. indica (I-ind and II-ind), V. stipulacea (I-sti, I-sti, II-sti, III-sti and VI-sti) and V. trilobata (I-tri, II-tri) have different seed coat types. In the present study, only a single seed coat pattern was recorded for the endemic, threatened species V. khandalensis. Finally, the congruency of seed coat patterns optimized onto an rDNA-ITS phylogeny was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To sustainably increase wheat yield to meet the growing world population's food demand in the face of climate change, Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a promising approach. Still, there is a lack of genomic studies investigating the genetic basis of crop adaptation to CA. To dissect the genetic architecture of 19 morpho-physiological traits that could be involved in the enhanced adaptation and performance of genotypes under CA, we performed GWAS to identify MTAs under four contrasting production regimes viz., conventional tillage timely sown (CTTS), conservation agriculture timely sown (CATS), conventional tillage late sown (CTLS) and conservation agriculture late sown (CALS) using an association panel of 183 advanced wheat breeding lines along with 5 checks. Traits like Phi2 (Quantum yield of photosystem II; CATS:0.37, CALS: 0.31), RC (Relative chlorophyll content; CATS:55.51, CALS: 54.47) and PS1 (Active photosystem I centers; CATS:2.45, CALS: 2.23) have higher mean values in CA compared to CT under both sowing times. GWAS identified 80 MTAs for the studied traits across four production environments. The phenotypic variation explained (PVE) by these QTNs ranged from 2.15 to 40.22%. Gene annotation provided highly informative SNPs associated with Phi2, NPQ (Quantum yield of non-photochemical quenching), PS1, and RC which were linked with genes that play crucial roles in the physiological adaptation under both CA and CT. A highly significant SNP AX94651261 (9.43% PVE) was identified to be associated with Phi2, while two SNP markers AX94730536 (30.90% PVE) and AX94683305 (16.99% PVE) were associated with NPQ. Identified QTNs upon validation can be used in marker-assisted breeding programs to develop CA adaptive genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) is an economically important vegetable crop grown in tropical parts of the world. In this study, a high-density linkage map of M. charantia was constructed through genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) technology using F2:3 mapping population generated from the cross DBGy-201 × Pusa Do Mausami. About 2013 high-quality SNPs were assigned on a total of 20 linkage groups (LGs) spanning over 2329.2 CM with an average genetic distance of 1.16 CM. QTL analysis was performed for six major yield-contributing traits such as fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, fruit flesh thickness, number of fruits per plant and yield per plant. These six quantitative traits were mapped with 19 QTLs (9 QTLs with LOD > 3) using composite interval mapping (CIM). Among 19 QTLs, 12 QTLs derived from 'Pusa Do Mausami' revealed a negative additive effect when its allele increased trait score whereas 7 QTLs derived from 'DBGy-201' revealed a positive additive effect when its allele trait score increased. The phenotypic variation (R2%) elucidated by these QTLs ranged from 0.09% (fruit flesh thickness) on LG 14 to 32.65% (fruit diameter) on LG 16 and a total of six major QTLs detected. Most QTLs detected in the present study were located relatively very close, maybe due to the high correlation among the traits. This information will serve as a significant basis for marker-assisted selection and molecular breeding in bitter gourd crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]