Search

In the present study, the crude aqueous and chloroform extracts of Annona squamosa was tested for its in-vitro acaricidal efficacy against Rhipicephalus microplus ticks. Concentrations of 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5% were tested against adult ticks whereas 0.312%, 0.625%, 1.25% and 2.5% were tested against larvae. No significant mortality and effect on oviposition was observed using aqueous extract, however, chloroform extract showed strong activity against both viz. adults and larvae. The highest adult mortality was observed at 12.5% concentration and determined LC50 and LC90 values were 5.24% and 14.12% respectively. A dose dependent reduction in egg laying capacity of treated female was observed in all concentrations compared to control group. The recorded mean mortality of larvae was 13.45 ± 0.73, 71.04 ± 1.10, 98.28 ± 0.39 and 100 ± 0.00 observed at 0, 0.312%, 0.625%, 1.25% and 2.5% of concentrations respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have performed X-ray synchrotron micro-diffraction measurements to study the processes controlling the formation of hillocks and whiskers in Sn layers on Cu. The studies were done in real-time on Sn layers that were electro-deposited immediately before the X-ray measurements were started. This enabled a region of the sample to be monitored from the as-deposited state until after a hillock feature formed. In addition to measuring the grain orientation and deviatoric strain (via Laue diffraction), the X-ray fluorescence was monitored to quantify the evolution of the Sn surface morphology and the formation of intermetallic compound (IMC) at the Sn-Cu interface. The results capture the simultaneous growth of the feature and the corresponding film stress, grain orientation, and IMC formation. The observations are compared with proposed mechanisms for whisker/hillock growth and nucleation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are numerous studies which indicate that association exist between Spiro metric indices (FEVI, FEVI/ FVC%, FVC, FEF 25-75%, PEFR) and hypertension. It is quite visible that the people who is suffering from hypertension as well as IHD might have very higher probability of having OAD. Present research has attempted the objective of finding the occurrences of OAD specifically when it has been found that any patient is having IHD along with hypertension. The present research has also attempted the comparison when the the patient is not having the hypertension and are healthy. Such study was carried out because in the views of researchers no such previous study was carried out in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For new risk factors to be meaningful in disease prevention in any population, they must either be responsible for a substantial proportion of the disease burden, or their modification must have a tangible impact on disease prevalence in that population. The major known variable risk factors also describe at least 75% of new cases of cardiovascular disease in the Western world. Physicians and their patients must therefore not lose sight of the fact that lifestyle changes incorporating smoking cessation, a heart healthy diet, weight reduction and regular physical activity together with drug therapy for dyslipidaemia, still remain the cornerstones of CVD prevention in our population. The routine measurement of plasma homocysteine and the use of specific therapies directed at reducing elevated levels is not yet recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Sm3+ incorporation maintained single phase cubic structure of Ni-Co ferrite. • Lattice strain with Sm3+ was increased. • FESEM micrographs exhibited agglomeration of grains with size varying from 40–60 nm. • Saturation magnetization upto x = 0.1 was decreased while for x = 0.125 it increases. • Observed Canting effect reveal the non-collinear structure. Abstract Samarium doped nanoferrites Ni 0.5 Co 0.5 Sm x Fe 2−x O 4 with (x = 0.00, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, 0.10, 0.125) samples were prepared by using auto-combustion route. XRD pattern analysis confirmed the single-phase cubic spinel structure with no evidence of secondary phase. It is observed that, the lattice constant decreased from 8.342 Å (x = 0) to 8.321 Å (0.100) and again increased to 8.370 for x = 0.125. The crystallite size and particle size indicate the nano sized nature of the prepared ferrites. Crystalite size varies nonlinearly between 33 nm and 25 nm with addition of Sm3+ content in Ni-Co nanoferrites. The agglomerated grain structure revealed the high surface interaction among magnetic nanoparticles. FTIR spectra revealed the characteristics features of ferrite skeleton formation. The saturation magnetization, coercivity and remanence magnetization are found to decreases with the substitution of Sm3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare earth Neodymium (Nd 3+ ) doped nanocrystalline Ni-Co mixed spinel ferrites which are chemically represented as Ni 0.5 Co 0.5 Nd x Fe 2-x O 4 (x = 0.025 to 0.125, in the step of 0.025) were synthesized by sol-gel auto-combustion method. The structural, morphological, infrared and magnetic properties were studied in detail in the light of Nd 3+ doping using standard techniques. X-ray analysis reveals the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure for all the prepared samples without any impurity phase. The crystallite size calculated from Scherrer's formula was observed to be decreasing with increasing Nd 3+ content. The lattice parameter calculated using XRD data was found to be decreasing upto x = 0.100 and then increases for x = 0.125. X-ray density was observed to be increasing from 5.327 to 5.630 gm/cm 3 . Surface morphology was studied through scanning electron microscopy technique. Grain size calculated from SEM analysis was found to be in the range of 30–59 nm. From transmission electron microscopy study, the average particle size was observed to be in the range of 35–45 nm. FTIR results exhibit the characteristics cubic spinel ferrite nature of the samples with two prominent absorption bands near 400 cm −1 and 600 cm −1 . FTIR also confirms the incorporation of Nd 3+ in the crystal structure. The magnetic behavior shows strong influence of substitution of Nd 3+ ions. The saturation magnetization, coercivity and remenance magnetization all decrease with substitution of Nd 3+ ions up to x = 0.100. For further increase in Nd 3+ concentration (x = 0.125), the saturation magnetization found to be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In current study, supercritical processed starch nanosponge (SSNS) used as a carrier for poorly water soluble drug (fenofibrate) to enhance its in-vitro and in-vivo performance. SSNS was prepared by using sol- gel method and effective supercritical drying technique. Fenofibrate was loaded into the SSNS by using solvent immersion method with selected and optimized organic solvent. BET surface area of SSNS was evaluated by nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis. SSNS and drug loaded SSNS were characterized by DSC, XRPD, FTIR, SEM, Contact angle study and evaluated for in-vitro, in-vivo studies. The results revealed that the formed SSNS material has high surface area (180m2/gm) with pore size (40 nm to 200nm). The DSC and XRPD study revealed the amorphization of drug within a SSNS. SEM study showed the continuous porous structure with differ nanosized pores of SSNS. Contact angle study showed improvement in aqueous wetting property of drug within a SSNS. In-vitro drug release study showed remarkable dissolution enhancement of SSNS formulation as compared to plain drug. In vivo pharmacodynamic study (hyperlipidaemia model) showed SNSS based formulation significantly improved the bioavailability of drug. Thus SSNS carrier system has good potential to be explored as a delivery system for poorly water soluble drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Sn whiskers are thin filaments that grow spontaneously out of the surface of coatings on Cu and have become a critical reliability problem in Pb-free electronics. In this review, we focus on what creates the driving force for whiskers (or more rounded “hillocks”), and what determines where on the surface they will form. Experimental studies are reviewed that quantify the relationship between the Cu–Sn intermetallic (IMC) formation, stress in the layer and whisker/hillock density. Measurements of the mechanical properties show how stress relaxation in the Sn layer is intimately related to how much stress develops due to the IMC formation. Real-time scanning electron microscope (SEM)/focused ion beam (FIB) studies are described that illustrate the whisker/hillock growth process in detail. Whiskers are found to grow out of a single grain on the surface with little lateral growth while hillock growth is accompanied by extensive grain growth and crystallite rotation. Electron-backscattering detection (EBSD) shows the grain structure around where the whiskers/hillocks form, indicating that whiskers can grow out of pre-existing grains and do not require the nucleation of new grains. This has led to a picture in which stress builds up due to IMC growth and causes whiskers/hillocks to form at “weak grains”, i.e., grains that have a stress relaxation mechanism that becomes active at a lower stress than its neighbors. FEA (finite element analysis) calculations are used to simulate the evolving stress and whisker growth for several different mechanisms that may lead to “weak” grains. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We report a new biopolymer electrolyte for dye sensitized solar cell application. To develop polymer electrolyte, potassium iodide have been added in agarose biopolymer matrix and characterized using various techniques like complex impedance spectroscopy, Infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Complex impedance spectroscopy shows many folds enhancement in ionic conductivity (σ) by salt doping and conductivity maxima was obtained near 60:40 composition. Infrared spectroscopy confirms the formation of composite nature. XRD revels the reduction of crystallinity by salt doping as well affirms the composite nature. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows reduction in crystallinity of gel matrix by salt doping which is a known favorable condition for ionic conductivity enhancement. To further affirm the conductivity enhancement in the gel electrolyte system a theoretical hopping model is also described in details. A DSSC has been developed using maximum electrical conductivity film which shows 0.54% efficiency at 1 sun condition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Corrosion is the irreversible, interfacial reaction of metals in the presence of an electrochemical environment which ultimately results in the deterioration of metals. Corrosion of reinforcement is the major problem in the reinforced concrete (RC) structure. Corrosion of reinforcement is a slow process because of the protective layer of concrete. Even in a severely corrosive environment corrosion process takes time to be initiated and propagated. Since to carry out research work, some techniques are required to accelerate the corrosion process in the shortest period. To overcome this problem, in the past, many researchers use a different method to accelerate the corrosion of steel in concrete. In this paper, a review is presented of various techniques used for accelerated corrosion testing. The suitability of reviewed methods on corrosion acceleration for several research works is presented. After that few case studies review to make use of various predicted empirical models and an experimental technique for predicting corrosion rate and the assessment of the remaining life of the structure. And finally, the paper is concluded by comparing the natural method of corrosion and the accelerated method of corrosion and the future scope of accelerated corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial waste locks are used as raw materials to reduce harmful effects on the environment and improve environmental performance. Marble clay powder can be used as a filling aid and can fill voids in concrete structures. This article will show you how to use a maximum natural sand alternative in concrete with marble powder and quarry dust. The challenge of the 21st century is to change to a new form that can support the natural system. This necessitates a radical rethinking of how to give the community infrastructure and housing. Making a concerted effort to develop novel, innovative, and alternative construction materials may be necessary. Jungles of concrete around cause's impact on the Environment and it would result in climate change. Mankind must avoid the use of things that are detrimental to the environment. So in this paper, it is decided to address the issue by adopting the use of the green concrete concept which is environmentally friendly. Green concrete is concrete made up using industrial wastes such as marble powder, quarry dust, wood ash, paper pulp, etc. Green concrete, which is capable of sustainable development, helps to reduce the consumption of natural resources, energy use, and environmental pollution. Green concrete is more cost‐effective than ordinary concrete and reduces the cost of resultant concrete by 14%–20%. It is also observed that the alkali‐aggregate reaction and sulfate attack resistance of concrete are both significantly improved. Green concrete is a useful tool for lowering environmental pollution and enhancing concrete's resistance to harsh conditions. All stages of infrastructure construction and rehabilitation will follow this trend of using new cement and techniques. Green concrete's adaptability and its performance derivatives will meet a variety of future needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in the construction industry is inevitable. The huge production of OPC and its use in infrastructural development pose an environmental impact. Greenhouse gas emitted increases the global temperature and it is an alarming sign to everybody on the planet. Concrete is the most consuming material which is produced by using OPC and it is proven that OPC contributes a lot to CO2 emission. Hence in this study attempt is made to produce concrete by using environment‐friendly material like fly ash along with alkaline activators, which is termed Geo polymer concrete. The by‐product fly ash is widely available worldwide. It is a by‐product of thermal power plants. The use of fly ash in concrete produces less expensive and more cost‐effective concrete than concrete made up using OPC. Due to its high silicate and alumina content, fly ash reacts with an alkaline solution to create an aluminosilicate gel that binds the aggregate and results in high‐quality concrete. Fly ash is finer than cement, it occupies the pores of cement after hydration. This would result in denser concrete which gives higher strength. In comparison to ordinary concrete, fly ash‐based geopolymer concrete offers better resistance to aggressive environments and high temperatures. In the present study, an alkaline activator of molarity 8 is used to prepare geopolymer concrete. The test specimens are cast and cured for 28 days. Test results indicate that an alkaline liquid fly‐ash ratio (0.4) produces higher mechanical properties. Hence, geopolymer concrete produced in this study is found to be cost‐effective and environment friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to evaluate two anaesthetic protocols in 12 clinical cases of dogs presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, COVAS, Parbhani for elective surgeries. These cases were divided into two equal groups (n=6). In both groups, dogs were pre-medicated with inj. Xylazine @ 1 mg/kg intramuscularly and anaesthesia was induced with inj. Tiletamine-Zolazepam (2 mg/kg) intravenously. Anaesthesia was maintained on constant rate infusion (CRI) of Tiletamine-Zolazepam (@ 2 mg/kg/h) in the dogs of group 1 and on Isoflurane in the dogs of group 2. Anaesthesia was assessed based on the quality of induction and recovery time in both groups. Clinico-physiological and haemato-biochemical parameters were measured in both groups at 5 different intervals. The induction score was identical in both groups with prolonged recovery in group 1. Clinico-physiological and haemato-biochemical values were changed from the base line value and return towards the baseline at recovery in both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid, has been used in local anesthetics as an additive for various locoregional nerve blocks. Although, its use in the dental field has not been unexplored and concealed. The current study was conducted to evaluate and compare the calibre of anesthesia, their hemodynamic response, vasoconstrictive effects, and control of pain while administering pterygomandibular nerve blocks using 2% Lignocaine hydrochloride solution with Dexamethasone(4mg/ml) with that of the standard 2% Lignocaine hydrochloride solution and Adrenaline bitartrate (1:80000). Materials and Methods: This triple-blind randomized controlled study included 80 healthy subjects, aged between 18-45 years with an indication for surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars. With the aid of a computer-generated sequence, the subjects were arbitrarily assigned into 2 groups (40/group)- Group 1: patients administered with 2% Lignocaine hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate (4mg/ml) solution, and Group 2: patients administered with 2% Lignocaine hydrochloride with Adrenaline bitartrate (Adr) 1: 80,000 (12.5 µgm/ml) solution. The variables were assessed based on their time of onset, depth (pain) and duration of anesthesia, systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures, heart rate, and blood loss. Results: Statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was noticed for the onset (shorter onset in Group 1) and duration of action (prolonged in group 1) and number of analgesics required (less in grp 1). Statistically non-significant difference between 2 groups (P>0.05) for pain, blood loss, cardiovascular variables (systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures and heart rate) at various intervals was noted. Conclusion: Dexamethasone added to Lignocaine shortens onset, prolongs duration of action and yields better control of post-operative pain as compared to Lignocaine with Adr. Vasoconstrictive properties, hemodynamic variables and intra-op pain control were comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whiskers/hillocks grow out of Pb-free Sn coatings used in electronics manufacturing. To determine which grains form whiskers/hillocks, we use scanning electron microscopy and backscattering diffraction to simultaneously monitor the surface morphology and grain structure. To reduce surface roughness, we developed a 'peel-off' method to prepare ultra-flat samples that were measured repeatedly while whiskers/hillocks formed. We find grains that form into whiskers/hillocks are present in the as-deposited film (i.e., not re-nucleated) and many have horizontal grain boundaries beneath them. Grain rotation during whisker/hillock formation means that measurements performed after the features grow do not indicate their initial grain orientations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple electrostatic model is applied to study the solvation energy and localization energy to inorganic semiconductor nanocrystallites trapped in polymer and ion conducting polymer electrolytes. The effective mass approximation has been applied to the system. In the single charge configuration, the dielectric constant of the medium has been identified as the selection criteria for hosting the nanoparticles. Solvation energy has been shown to depend on the host medium and the size of the crystallite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to investigate the tick infestation on cattle in the plain region of Chhattisgarh state. During the period of study, 832 ticks of 47 animals were examined for the different tick species. The most prominently infested ixodid tick belonged to Hyalomma anatolicum (68.38%) followed by Rhipicephalus microplus (30.40%).The females showed higher infestation than males. A single tick species infestation pattern was observed in 17 animals while 30 animals were infested by both tick species. Single species infestation of H. anatolicum was encountered in 15 animals while R. microplus was observed in 2 animals. The intensity of tick infestation on each animal varied from 6 to 65 ticks per animal at different locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Gd3+-doped Ca 3 Al 2 O 6 (CA3) phosphor was synthesized using a combustion method. The crystal structure and the phase purity of the sample were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The surface morphology of the sample was studied using a scanning electronic microscope (SEM). The Gd3+-doped Ca 3 Al 2 O 6 phosphor showed an absorption band in the UV spectral region and a narrowband-UVB emission under the excitation of 273 nm. The narrowband-UVB emission at 314 nm corresponds to the 6P 7/2 → 8S 7/2 transition of the Gd3+. A dominant line in the region around g = 2.0 was observed in the electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrum of the prepared phosphor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Undoped Y 2 O 3 and Gd3+-doped Y 2 O 3 samples were synthesized using a sol-gel method. The samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), a scanning electron microscope (SEM), photoluminescence (PL), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). The room-temperature PL spectrum was recorded to study the bands that are due to the Gd3+. The photoluminescence analyses of the sample confirm the presence of the Gd3+ ions in the Y 2 O 3 matrix. EPR spectra of the samples confirmed the presence of Gd3+ ions in Y3+ sites with cubic symmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have developed a gold nanoparticle based simple, rapid lateral flow assay (LFA) for detection of Indian Cobra venom (CV) and Russell’s viper venom (RV). Presently, there is no rapid, reliable, and field diagnostic test available in India, where snake bite cases are rampant. Therefore, this test has an immense potential from the public health point of view. The test is based on the principle of the paper immunochromatography assay for detection of two snake venom species using polyvalent antisnake venom antibodies (ASVA) raised in equines and species-specific antibodies (SSAbs) against venoms raised in rabbits for conjugation and impregnation respectively. The developed, snake envenomation detection immunoassay (SEDIA) was rapid, selective, and sensitive to detect venom concentrations up to 0.1 ng/ml. The functionality of SEDIA strips was confirmed by experimental envenomation in mice and the results obtained were specific for the corresponding venom. The SEDIA has a potential to be a field diagnostic test to detect snake envenomation and assist in saving lives of snakebite victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]