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A semi-organic l-tyrosine hydrobromide (LTHB) nonlinear optical single crystal has been harvested using slow evaporation solution technique (SEST) at atmospheric conditions. The ingot has under gone for different characterisations to check its appropriateness for device fabrications. The structural conformation and unit cell dimensions have been estimated using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) method. The prominent peaks of PXRD have been indexed and it shows that crystal having non-centrosymmetric in nature with nonlinear optical application in second harmonic generation (SHG). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis has been employed to characterise as grown crystal to know about the presence of various functional group in it. The crystalline quality and defects during the growth have been inspected by high resolution X-ray diffraction (HRXRD) technique. Optical studies have been carried out using UV–Vis and photoluminescence (PL) analysis. From UV–Vis measurement, we found that the material exhibits lower cut off wavelength with a high transparency window which is suitable for nonlinear optical (NLO) and optoelectronic applications. A detailed discussion of thermo gravimetric (TG) and derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) along with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) has been presented to know about the thermal behaviour of LTHB crystal. The thermo mechanical analyser (TMA) which is useful to evaluate the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the grown crystal has been performed. Laser damage threshold (LDT) density has been noticed to check its strength for high intense laser. The optical, structural, thermal and phase matching studies of titled crystal establish the suitability of this material for optoelectronics and NLO device applications.

Objectives To study the determinants of locoregional control (LRC) on stage I/II oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) classified by AJCC 8th edition. Methods Retrospective analysis from 296 patients of pT1-2N0 oral OSCC treated with surgery (wide local excision and selective neck dissection). Those receiving adjuvant therapy were excluded. Multivariate analysis was performed for impact of adverse pathological features (APFs) on LRC. Results In stage I, LRC was impacted by perineural invasion (PNI) (HR 7.72, p = 0.010, 95% CI 1.64–36.26) and moderate/poor differentiation (MD/PD) (HR 3.04, p = 0.049, 95% CI 0.99–9.25). In stage II, LRC was impacted by depth of invasion (DOI) (HR 1.59, p = 0.014, 95% CI 1.099–2.32), PNI (HR = 2.86, p = 0.005, 95% CI 1.36–5.98). Combined MD/PD and PNI were associated with worse LRC than either feature individually (HR = 4.12, p Conclusion PNI and differentiation accurately predict LRC in AJCC 8th edition classified stage I/II OSCC. PNI was a stronger predictor of locoregional failure than DOI in stage II disease. By incorporating these parameters, we can improve precision in staging of early OSCC and identify potential candidates for treatment escalation to improve outcomes.

Calciphylaxis is a rare life-threatening condition characterized by progressive skin ischemia and extremely painful cutaneous necrosis and ulceration due to mural calcification and thrombosis of arterioles and capillaries in the dermis and subcutaneous adipose tissue. Most often this leads to sepsis and multi-organ failure with very high mortality. It is predominantly seen with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients who are on dialysis or who recently received a renal transplant. Therefore, it is associated with secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism. This entity termed uremic calciphylaxis. A similar rare entity in a patient with normal kidney function termed non-uremic calciphylaxis. Here we review a rare extensive presentation of calciphylaxis due to primary hyperparathyroidism with normal renal function. Calciphylaxis is a catastrophic disease that carries high morbidity and mortality due to sepsis and multi-organ failure A strong clinical suspicion should be kept in any patients with painful necrotic eschar with normal kidney function. Serum calcium and serum Parathyroid hormone should be screened in such cases. Early identification and prompt multi-disciplinary management are mandatory to improve survival.

Nonlinear optical materials (NLO) have been garnering attention due to their role in optical data storage, optical communication and laser technology. Organic crystals have emerged as an ex...

In the contemporary days, non-linear optical materials (NLO) are getting higher attention as per the increasing demand in optical communication and data storage technology. Consequently, they explore various physical properties of the NLO material for their industrial applications. In current report, l-arginine p-nitrobenzoate monohydrate (LANB) single crystals were obtained by adopting slow cooling technique. The structural confirmation of grown single crystal was carried out using single crystal X-Ray diffractometer. Presence of strain within single crystal was deduced using Hall–Williamson relation. Various defects associated within single crystal were assessed using high resolution XRD. Additionally, its crystalline quality was again confirmed by time resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy (TRPL). Using transmission spectra, the cut off wavelength and band gap of the host material was determined to be nearly 420 nm and 2.9 eV respectively. The dielectric property has been recorded by varying the frequency ranging from 50 Hz to 100 kHz. The curve suggests that dielectric loss value is less at high frequency ensures the suitability of crystal in photonics and NLO based devices. The laser damage threshold values were also measured for single and multiple shots. Thermal parameters of the titled compound were calculated using PPE. In photoconductivity measurement, negative photoconductivity has been observed in titled compound. Microhardness studies were also performed on single crystal to explore its mechanical properties.

BACKGROUND To validate the newly proposed American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) eighth edition staging in early T1 and T2 oral cavity cancers and its effect in predicting tumour control. METHODS Retrospective analysis of treatment outcomes of 441 T1 to T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and tumour control were calculated and compared between the AJCC 7 and 8 staging systems. RESULTS The 5-year OS was 78% and 61% for T1 and T2 tumours, respetively (P

Background The purpose of this study was to determine the factors affecting local control in patients with T1N0 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tongue. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 144 patients with pT1N0 SCC of the tongue who underwent wide excision and neck dissection without adjuvant therapy. Results The adverse pathological features associated with local control were least margin 5 mm (P = .004), infiltrative margin (P = .403), depth >4 mm (P = .136), lymphovascular invasion (P = .301), and perineural invasion (P = .342). We derived a scoring system of 10 points based on the hazard ratio for local failure; those with scores >5 points had a 5-year local control of Conclusion This study suggests patients having a margin of 5 mm need revision, however, if they do not have additional adverse pathological features (score ≤4), local control is 88% at 5 years, and they may be observed. Those who have margins over 5 mm with a total score >5 may still benefit from adjuvant therapy. Those with margins over 5 mm have improved local control (P = .029).

Bharatiya Nirdeshak Dravya (BND®) is the trademark of Certified Reference Material (CRM) of CSIR-NPL. BNDs are the primary standards, which ensure reliability and comparability of the measurements as a benchmark for the quality assurance achieved through international networking. Networking between the NMIs through bilateral cooperation, participation with international bodies/organization establishes wide-ranging recognition of BND in India. BND is the heart of India’s scientific and industrial development by establishing quality control in measurements. A detailed discussion to overcome barriers in international trade and standardization of measurement with high metrological aspect has been emphasized. BNDs are produced by CSIR-NPL: (i) in-house and (ii) in association with Reference Material Producers (RMPs) across the country as per ISO 17034 standard. A detailed emphasis on production of BNDs are given in Chap. 19. The BNDs produced by CSIR-NPL in different sectors are uploaded in the international COMAR database, i.e. COde d'Indexation des Materiaux de Reference (COMAR) for its global visibility. To enhance the impact of reference materials in the global economy, Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) has recently established national mirror committee on reference materials which is a part of ISO-REMCO (Committee on reference materials). The main aim of this chapter is to make the readers acquainted with process and guidelines who are working in reference standard and looking for certification of their products. This chapter describes the terminology/definition and international networking. The metrological traceability of BNDs established are linked to SI units which have been elaborated in detail. Further, the metrological perspective, such as testing, calibration, method of validation, repeatability, reproducibility studies, control chart preparation, inter-laboratory comparison, quality control and quality assurance are also discussed for a broader readership. A detailed emphasis has been given on international key comparison, proficiency/round-robin testing, pilot study in various sectors like physico-mechanical, physico-chemical, foods/feedstuffs, biomedical, environmental, health-care, agricultural etc. in this chapter.

Background. Expectant management of early-onset pre-eclampsia, with the aim of improving perinatal outcomes, may increase the risk of maternal morbidity. Objective. To study the maternal and perinatal outcomes and their association with various risk factors in women undergoing expectant management for early-onset pre-eclampsia. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was carried out in a tertiary centre in south India between April 2014 and June 2015. We studied 201 women with singleton pregnancies with pre-eclampsia diagnosed between 28 and 34 weeks’ gestation. Demographic data, medication and treatment details, and delivery data were extracted from maternal charts. The primary outcomes were: (i) composite maternal outcomes, defined as the development of any of eclampsia, abruptio placentae, pulmonary oedema or renal failure; and (ii) perinatal mortality. Logistic regression was used to assess the independent association risk factors with primary outcomes, after adjusting for other variables. Results. Sixty-nine women (34.3%) had one or more of the composite adverse maternal outcomes, and there were 74 (36.8%) cases of perinatal mortality. The presence of imminent symptoms (odds ratio (OR)=2.35) and multiparity (OR=2.31) were associated with composite adverse maternal outcomes, whereas low birth weight and breech vaginal delivery were associated with perinatal mortality. Perinatal mortality was higher in women with pre-eclampsia diagnosed between 28 and 30 weeks. Gestational age at diagnosis was not found to be associated with composite adverse maternal outcomes or perinatal morbidity. Conclusion. Expectant management in early-onset pre-eclampsia can be safely considered without increasing maternal risk, after thorough counselling about outcomes, based on the available neonatal facilities in low-resource settings.

Ammonium d , l -Tartrate (AMT) single crystal for optical and photonic device application was analyzed with different characterization studies. The AMT crystal was grown by low cost conventional solution growth technique. The unit cell parameters were obtained from single crystal XRD analysis and the crystal system is confirmed to be orthorhombic with noncentrosymmetric space group P2 1 2 1 2 1 . The crystalline perfection evaluated by high resolution X-ray diffractometry (HRXRD) enumerates the quality of the crystal is good. The optical transparency window of AMT crystal has 78% transmittance from 234 nm to 1100 nm region and has lower cut-off wavelength of 234 nm was analyzed by UV–visible spectral studies. The hardness number (H v ) , yield strength (σ y ) and elastic stiffness constant (C 11 ) were evaluated from the hardness data using Vickers hardness tester. Dielectric study indicates the moderate dielectric constant and low dielectric loss of AMT crystal which are required properties to develop optoelectronic devices. The laser damage threshold value of AMT is 0.238 GW/cm 2 and photoconductivity study reveals the positive photoconductivity nature of the AMT crystal. The particle size dependent SHG studies were performed using Nd:YAG laser. The SHG efficiency of AMT is found to be 1.3 times greater than the standard KDP crystal. Third order nonlinear susceptibility χ (3) of AMT was assessed using an open aperture and closed aperture Z-scan technique and the value is 6.71×10 −6 esu. AMT crystal is found to exhibit good optical power limiting. The present work indicates that AMT is a potential material for optoelectronic and nonlinear optical devices.

High efficiency thermoelectric materials plays a vital role in power generation and refrigeration applications. Bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) is one among them. In the present work single crystal of bismuth telluride was grown using vertical Bridgman technique. The phase of grown crystals was analysed using a powder X-ray diffractometer. Quality of the grown crystal was assessed by using high resolution X-ray diffractometer and observed that it is fairly good. Further mechanical investigations on grown crystal was carried out using nano-indentation technique and various mechanical properties like hardness, stiffness and Young’s modulus were evaluated. Observed results clearly indicate its suitability for thermoelectric applications.

Calciphylaxis is a dreadful condition predominantly seen in chronic kidney disease patients on haemodialysis or following renal transplant. Calciphylaxis occurring in patients with normal kidney function is extremely rare. Here we present 53-year-old women presented with painful, extensive eschar-like skin lesions involving bilateral lower limb of 3 months of duration. She had hypercalcemia, high serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and elevated alkaline phosphatase. Ultrasound neck and sestamibi scan demonstrated left inferior parathyroid adenoma. Lower limb radiographic studies showed subcutaneous calcification. Cutaneous biopsy confirmed calciphylaxis. Cinacalcet to control hypercalcemia, antibiotics and pain control medications were started. Left inferior parathyroidectomy and debridement of gangrenous lesions of lower limbs were performed. Histopathology was consistent with parathyroid adenoma. Lower limb wound started granulating with Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) dressing and skin graft was planned. Unfortunately, she succumbed 11 weeks from surgery due to proximal myopathy, aspiration pneumonitis, sepsis and multiorgan failure.

A new rare-earth-free NaZnPO4:Mn(2+) (NZP:Mn) phosphor powder has been developed by our group and investigated meticulously for the first time using secondary ion mass spectroscopy and chemical imaging techniques. The studies confirmed the effective incorporation of Mn(2+) into the host lattice, resulting in an enhancement of photoluminescence intensity. Phase purity has been verified and structure parameters have been determined successfully by Rietveld refinement studies. The NZP:Mn phosphor powder exhibits strong absorption bands in the ultraviolet and visible (300-470 nm) regions with a significant broad yellow-green (~543 nm) emission due to the characteristic spin forbidden d-d transition ((4)T1→(6)A1) of Mn(2+) ions, indicating weak crystal field strength at the zinc-replaced manganese site. The decay constants are a few milliseconds, which is a pre-requisite for applications in many display devices. The results obtained suggest that this new phosphor powder will find many interesting applications in semiconductor physics, as cost-effective light-emitting diodes (LEDs), as solar cells and in photo-physics.

Long afterglow SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ nanophosphors were synthesized via a facile but effectual auto-combustion technique followed by post-annealing treatment at elevated temperatures. The influence of various fuels during synthesis and thereafter improvement in the luminescence decay characteristics under various illuminant irradiations of long afterglow nanophosphors have been reported. Extensive studies on structural, morphological and luminescent properties of the as-synthesized afterglow nanophosphors have been presented. Powder X-ray diffraction studies confirm the presence of high-purity, single-phase monoclinic nanophosphors. HRTEM investigations confirm the formation of nanophosphors of particle size less than 50 nm. Photoluminescence emission is attributed to the characteristic d–f transition (4f65d1→4f7) of Eu2+ ions and was positioned at 512 nm. As-synthesized nanophosphors exhibit considerable confinement effects resulting into blue shift in emission maxima as compared to their bulk counterparts. The mechanism underlined for long afterglow has been discussed using trapping–detrapping model. The nanophosphor being multifunctional finds many interesting applications including dark-vision display, energy storage, fingerprint detection, in vivo and in vitro biological staining, etc.

Recent trends focuses on the usage of nonlinear optical materials owing to their increasing demand in frontier areas of optical communication and switching applications. In the present work single crystal of L-threoninium picrate, an excellent material for nonlinear optical applications was grown using conventional slow evaporation solution technique to meet the increasing demand of photonics industry. The lattice parameters of the grown crystal were analysed by using powder X-ray diffraction, and it was found that it crystallised in monoclinic system with space group P21. The strain in the lattice of the grown crystal was calculated using Hall–Williamson relation. Crystalline perfection of the grown crystal was assessed using high resolution X-ray diffraction technique and observed that quality of crystal was fairly good. Optical transmission analysis and band gap evaluation were performed using UV-Vis spectroscopy. Laser damage threshold value for the crystal was also measured and was found to be higher than most of reported organic single crystals. Optical homogeneity of the crystal and birefringence was evaluated using modified channel spectrum method. Thermal behaviour of the grown specimen was examined by using photopyroelectric technique. Further its various mechanical properties, such as hardness, stiffness, young's modulus, were measured using nanoindentation technique.

Vanillylideneaniline with chemical formula C 14 H 13 NO 2 (VAN), a second order nonlinear optical (SONLO) organic single crystal was synthesized and grown for the first time from dimethyl formamide (DMF) employing slow solvent evaporation technique. Single crystal X-ray diffraction data reveals that the crystal belongs to noncentrosymmetric orthorhombic space group C222 1 . The high-resolution diffraction curve containing single peak with full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 62 arc s ascertains VAN was perfectly crystallized and free from structural grain boundaries. The formation of the material was confirmed quantitatively by FTIR, 1 H 1 and 13 C NMR spectral analyses. The UV–vis–NIR spectrum reveals the percentage of the transmission of VAN crystal in the entire region. The variations of dielectric constant ( ɛ r ) and dielectric loss ( D ) with frequency at different temperatures were investigated. The SHG of VAN crystal is confirmed by Kurtz Powder technique. The mechanical strength of the crystal was estimated by Vickers hardness test. VAN has yield strength of 8.70 MPa. Thus the grown organic VAN single crystal can be recommended as a promising candidate for SONLO application and device fabrication technology.

Gamma bis glycinium oxalate (GBGOx) crystal was synthesized and grown by slow evaporation solution technique. The structure of pure GBGOx crystal has been examined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The confirmation with single crystal XRD reveals that the crystal belongs to monoclinic system with space group C 2 . The FTIR spectrum was recorded to identify the expected functional groups. UV–vis-spectrum shows the lower cut off wavelength and 80% of transmittance in the UV–vis region. The photoluminescence measurement shows that the material is suitable for photonic devices. Preliminary measurement of green light emission using Kurtz powder technique indicates that their second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency. The microhardness analysis revealed that the grown crystal belongs to soft material category. The encouraging results show that the GBGOx crystals have great potential applications in optical devices.

Aim: Pregnancy in women with epilepsy (WWE) who are on anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) has two- to three-fold increased risk of fetal malformations. AEDs are mostly metabolized by Cyp2C9, Cyp2C19 and Cyp3A4 and transported by ABCB1. Patients on AED therapy can have folate deficiency. We hypothesize that the polymorphisms in ABCB1, Cyp2C9, Cyp2C19 and methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) might result in differential expression resulting in differential drug transport, drug metabolism and folate metabolism, which in turn may contribute to the teratogenic impact of AEDs. Materials and Methods: The ABCB1, Cyp2C9, Cyp2C19 and MTHFR polymorphisms were genotyped for their role in teratogenic potential and the nature of teratogenecity in response to AED treatment in WWE. The allelic, genotypic associations were tested in 266 WWE comprising of 143 WWE who had given birth to babies with WWE-malformation (WWE-M) and 123 WWE who had normal offsprings (WWE-N). Results: In WWE-M, CC genotype of Ex07 + 139C/T was overrepresented (P = 0.0032) whereas the poor metabolizer allele FNx012 and FNx012 FNx012 genotype of CYP2C219 was significantly higher in comparison to WWE-N group (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005, respectively). All these observations were independent of the nature of malformation (cardiac vs. non cardiac malformations). Conclusion: Our study indicates the possibility that ABCB1 and Cyp2C19 may play a pivotal role in the AED induced teratogenesis, which is independent of nature of malformation. This is one of the first reports indicating the pharmacogenetic role of Cyp2C19 and ABCB1 in teratogenesis of AED in pregnant WWE.

BACKGROUND The American Thyroid Association (ATA) recommends thyroid lobectomy for 1 to 4 cm tumors without adverse features. We studied the prevalence of adverse pathological features in patients eligible for unilateral lobectomy. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy. Patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) with tumors measuring 1 to 4 cm with no known preoperative adverse features were included in this study. Patients with nodal and distant metastasis, tumors 4 cm, age

Background: Although for advanced tumour of breast have certain obvious physical characteristics, seldom is such physical finding seen in early malignant breast tumour. Keeping all these in mind, the present study aims at estimation of serum fucose which may help in early detection of breast malignancy.Methods: The present study was carried out over a period of one and a half year. A total of 68 patients were studied. Out of these 68 cases, 32 cases were having breast malignancy. After noting details history, through examination was done according to the proforma. Investigations were carried out as shown in proforma. Estimation of serum fucose was done in all these cases. Estimation of serum fucose was also done pre-operatively and in post-operative period.Results: It is evident from this that 70% of malignant lumps were seen in upper and outer quadrant of breast, 25% lumps in lower quadrant. It is obvious that as age advances average serum fucose level in breast cancer, starts decreasing. Thus younger patients have high Serum level as compared to old patients. Rise in serum level with the progression of stage of breast cancer. There was significant reduction observed in serum fucose level after surgery (p

Single crystal of l -alanine cadmium chloride (LACC) has been grown by the conventional seed suspended technique. The grown crystals were subjected to various characterizations such as powder XRD, FTIR, UV–vis, second and third harmonic generation measurements. The structure of pure LACC crystal has been examined by powder X-ray diffraction analysis. The confirmation with single crystal XRD reveals that the crystal belongs to monoclinic system with space group C 2 . The FTIR spectrum was recorded to identify the expected functional groups and the molecular structure was confirmed by 1 H NMR spectrum. Dielectric measurements reveal that the grown crystals have very low dielectric loss. UV–vis-spectrum shows the lower cut off wavelength at 245 nm and transparency above 95% in the UV–vis region. The optical band gap was determined to be 5.12 eV. Preliminary measurement of green light emission using Kurtz powder technique indicates that their second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency. The third order nonlinear optical parameters such as nonlinear refractive index ( n 2 ), nonlinear absorption coefficient ( β ) and third order susceptibility ( χ 3 ) are found to be in the order of 2.4233 × 10 −14 cm 2 /W, 0.2252 × 10 −4 cm/W, 0.9134 × 10 −15 esu, respectively by Z scan measurement. The encouraging results show that the LACC crystals have great potential applications in optical devices.

Bronchogenic cysts are rare congenital malformations originating from budding of the tracheobronchial component during foregut development. Most cy sts are located in the mediastinum and the intrapulmonary region. Localization in the cervical area is unusual. The majority of cases have been reported in the pediatric population and few cases in adults. We report an unusual case of bronchogenic cyst presenting as a deep lateral neck mass with dysphagia in an adult female. This case presented with three unusual elements: adult female, lateral cervical location, and presence of symptoms.

Sol–gel-derived aluminum (Al)-doped zinc oxide thin films have been deposited on silicon (Si) wafers and microslide glass substrates using the spin coating technique. The atomic ratio of Al:Zn in the films is 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3. The films have been characterized using different techniques, i.e., x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV-visible-near infrared spectrophotometry, spectroscopic ellipsometry, and the four-probe method. The films have exhibited excellent optical transmittance (∼90%). The refractive indices of the films are in the range between 1.47 and 1.53. The thickness of the films is in the range of 103–115 nm. The films have demonstrated reflectivity of about 3% at a wave length of 600 nm. The reflectivity, transmittance, refractive index, and thickness values of the films show that the films are promising candidates for utility as antireflection coatings in silicon solar cells.

Bulk single crystals of pure and xylenol orange (XO) admixtured l -arginine phosphate (LAP) were grown by slow cooling technique. The cell parameters and crystallinity of pure and dye admixtured LAP crystals were confirmed by single crystal and powder X-ray diffraction analyses. HRXRD analysis reveals the presence of xylenol orange dye in interstitial site of LAP crystal lattice and it confirms the crystalline perfection of grown crystals. The functional groups of grown crystals were confirmed by FTIR spectral analysis. UV–vis transmission studies show the characteristic absorption of xylenol orange admixtured LAP crystal. Vickers’ microhardness and laser damage threshold studies were carried out on these crystals. Kurtz and Perry powder test was conducted to measure the second harmonic generation efficiency of pure and dye admixtured LAP crystals.

A 22-year girl, diagnosed to have primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in 2009, underwent live related donor renal transplantation in May 2011. Her immunosuppressive regimen included Tacrolimus, Mycophenolate Mofetil and Prednisolone. For next three months graft function remained normal. In August 2011 she developed massive proteinuria with mild graft dysfunction and graft biopsy showed recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. She underwent nine sessions of plasmapheresis followed by two doses of Rituximab. She attained remission of proteinuria and normal graft function after treatment. She continues to be in remission at one year and six months.

ZnSe single crystal of size ∼25 mm lengths and ∼10 mm diameter was grown by vertical Bridgman technique using two zone tubular furnace from the synthesized polycrystal of the compound. The powder X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the crystal system of the grown crystal. The optical band gap of the grown crystal was calculated and found to be ∼2.704 eV by UV–vis–NIR analysis. The crystalline perfection was assessed by using high-resolution X-ray diffractometer (HRXRD) and chemical etching studies which reveals that the grown crystal has good crystalline perfection. The etch pit dislocation density was calculated and found to be 2 × 10 6 cm −2 . Good crystalline perfection and less dislocation density of the grown crystals makes, it important for optoelectronic device fabrications. The dielectric studies were also done over a wide range of frequency 100 Hz to 10 MHz at room temperature.

A comparative study on CIGSe nanocrystals prepared by two different ligands has been envisaged. This piece of study aims at comparing the properties obtained when toxic as well as non-toxic ligands are used for CIGSe, which is a potential photovoltaic material with performance at par with Si-based photovoltaics.

Sugarcane bud chip planting is the latest technique of sugarcane planting, wherein the bud along with a portion of the nodal region is chipped off and planted in protray with FYM soil and sand. Studies on mechanisation of the planting of settlings from sugarcane buds raised in portrays were carried out at Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering—Regional Centre, Coimbatore and Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore and a tractor mounted two row mechanical planter for settlings raised from sugarcane bud chips was developed. It consists of mainframe which can be attached to standard three-point hitch arrangement of a 35 hp tractor. The metering mechanism, operator’s seat, furrow openers, soil openers and furrow closers are mounted on the main frame with necessary supports. The optimum speed of operation was standardized as 1.4 km/h by experimentation where the missing percentage was 2.33 %. The field capacity of the equipment was 0.15 ha/h. The biometric parameters viz., diameter of the cane, cane height, single cane weight, juice content and yield of the mechanically planted sugarcane settlings were on par with the manually planted sugarcane settlings. The juice quality of sugarcane from mechanically planted settling in terms of brix, CCS, sucrose and purity was at par with sugarcane from manual planting of settlings at the time of harvest. Cost economic analysis of planting with mechanical planter showed 40 and 85 %, saving in cost and labour, respectively over manual bud chip settling planting.

The nonlinear optical single crystals like L-alanine cadmium chloride (LACC), L-alanine doped potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate (KDP) and L-arginine doped KDP were grown by slow evaporation method at room temperature. The grown crystals were exposed to Co-60 gamma radiation in the total doses ranging from 100 krad to 6 Mrad. The structural properties, change in absorption spectra, refractive index (RI) and second harmonic generation (SHG) performance of these crystals were investigated before and after irradiation. An X-ray diffraction studies reveal that the compressive strains are generated in the irradiated crystals. The ultraviolet - visible spectra show that the optical absorption increases with increase in radiation dose in the case of LACC crystal. There is no systematic behaviour in the optical absorption of L-alanine and L-arginine doped KDP crystals with increase in the radiation dose. A considerable change in the values of RI was observed due to irradiation. The SHG efficiency of LACC crystals were found to decrease with increase in radiation dose where as in case of L-alanine doped KDP crystals, the SHG efficiency was found to increase with increase in radiation dose.

Aim: The conventional practice of using trial and error mode to select antipsychotic drugs in treatment of schizophrenia can result in symptom exacerbations, relapse and severe side effects, resulting in higher costs of treatment. P-glycoprotein (ABCB1) is known to regulate the concentration of antipsychotic drugs in the brain. Variable expressivity based on polymorphism in the gene ABCB1 may reflect on the drug response and its relationship to dosage. Materials & methods: All antipsychotic dosages administered to patients were converted to common chlorpromazine equivalents. Response to antipsychotics was based on 50% cutoff in Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale ratings after 1-year of follow-up. Using a case–control study design, ABCB1 polymorphisms were screened in 192 individuals grouped into responders and nonresponders. Results: A strong allelic, genotypic and haplotypic association, was observed, which was predictive of good response to antipsychotics. Individuals carrying the favorable homozygous genotypes of rs1045642 and rs2032582 displayed better response with increased dosage while those carrying risk genotype manifested refractoriness on increased dosage. Conclusion: The study suggests that a priori knowledge of ABCB1 genotypes can provide a significant input into evaluating the patient’s response to medication, and minimizing redundant dosing and refractoriness. Original submitted 14 February 2012; Revision submitted 14 May 2012

Prototype fast breeder reactor (PFBR) is at an advanced stage of construction in Kalpakkam, India. Top shield (consisting of roof slab and rotatable plugs) of PFBR is of box type construction. It is a Class-1 component being a part of the primary leak-tight boundary of the reactor assembly. In the future commercial fast breeder reactor (CFBR), it is planned to adopt thick plate concept for rotatable plugs. The thickness of the plates required for the rotatable plugs of CFBR was arrived at based on finite element analysis considering mechanical and thermal loads. The main advantage of using thick plate for the rotatable plugs is that it eliminates the possibility of lamellar tearing which exists in the box type construction. The successful realisation of this concept necessitates the indigenous development of thick plate narrow gap welding technology. Hence a technology development programme for realising 800 mm thick narrow gap welds using submerged arc welding process was undertaken. Three numbers of welded joints were made to demonstrate the successful development of thick plate narrow gap welding technology. Repair procedure for the weld was also established. Non-destructive examination and destructive testing were carried out and the results were analysed critically. The attenuation of ultrasonic wave in narrow gap weld as compared to that in the base metal was examined. This paper discusses the need and conceptual design of thick plate concept for rotatable plugs in CFBR, the approach adopted for technology development of thick plate narrow gap welding and the salient experiences gained during the developmental project. Recommendations are made regarding the RCC-MR code rules for the non-destructive volumetric examination of welds of thick carbon steel plates.

In the recent past, nonlinear optical materials are getting attention in the field fibre optic communication and optical signal processing. In the present study, the title compound was successfully synthesized by conventional chemical reaction and then the single crystal was grown by slow evaporation solution growth technique. l-Arginine acetate (LAA) is semi organic non linear optical single crystal and crystallizes in noncentrosymmetric space group. The grown good quality single crystals have been analyzed by different characterization analyses such as powder X-ray diffraction, high resolution X-ray diffraction (HRXRD), Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, SEM, micro-hardness, thermal and birefringence analyses.

Gamma glycine was synthesized and the single crystals were grown by the slow evaporation method in the presence of lithium nitrate. Structure and crystalline nature of the grown γ-glycine crystal was confirmed by X-ray diffraction technique. It was found to crystallize in the trigonal system with space group P31. The chemical composition was determined by NMR. Fourier transform infrared studies revealed the functional groups present in the grown crystal and UV–vis–NIR spectra revealed the transmission properties of the crystal specimen. Surface morphology of the grown crystal was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental composition was confirmed by energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The second-order nonlinear optical property of the material was investigated by Kurtz powder technique and the relative second harmonic efficiency of γ-glycine was estimated to be higher than that of KDP. The dielectric measurement was carried out as a function of frequencies at room temperature and the results were discussed. The samples have shown piezoelectric behavior with a fairly good piezoelectric charge coefficient (d33) of 7.37 pC/N. Photoluminescence studies showed emission peak around 350 nm. Thermo gravimetric and differential thermal analyses were employed to understand the thermal and physio-chemical stability of the synthesized compound.

Modern development of optical devices calls for new nonlinear optical (NLO) materials with extraordinary properties. Organic and semi-organic materials are getting considerable attention because of their potential uses in various optical telecommunication devices including optical modulation, optical switching and optical limiters. The Z-scan technique is a simple and sensitive single beam method to determine both the nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear absorption coefficient of materials. In this investigation Z scan was performed on potassium acid phthalate (KHP) and methyl p-hydroxybenzoate (p-MHB) single crystals by using Nd: YAG laser at 532 nm. The results were analyzed and compared. The outcome of this investigation could help us to learn the material completely and also to understand the relations between molecular structure, linear absorption and optical nonlinearity the crystals. The entire outcome of this work suggests that KHP and p-MHB are potential materials for optical device application.

In the present scenario, nonlinear optical single crystals are very much useful in the field of second harmonic generation, fibre optic communication, electro-optic modulation, etc. In order to satisfy the above said requirements, crystal researchers have to find out novel and efficient nonlinear optical materials. In the recent past semi-organic materials are more attractive because of its dual characteristics of organic and inorganic systems. In the present communication, we have successfully synthesized the semi-organic nonlinear optical material of l-histidine bromide (LHB) and the single crystal has been grown by slow evaporation solution growth technique. The formation of the synthesized compound was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis and the lattice dimensions have been determined from the powder X-ray diffraction analysis. Its crystalline perfection was examined by high-resolution X-ray diffractometer (HRXRD) and found to be an excellent. Its refractive index and birefringence have been studied. Its optical and electrical properties have been assessed by UV–vis, photoluminescence and dielectric measurements, respectively. Its laser damage threshold was determined by adopting Nd:YAG laser as a source.

The semi-organic nonlinear optical single crystal of L-glutamic acid hydrochloride was grown by slow evaporation solution growth technique at room temperature. The cell parameters of the grown crystal were estimated by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The presence of various functional groups was identified from Fourier transform infrared analysis. The transmission spectrum of this crystal show that the lower cut-off wavelength lies at 248 nm. Thermal analysis was performed to study the thermal stability of the grown crystal. The Kurtz powder second harmonic generation test shows that the crystal is a potential candidate for optical second harmonic generation. Mechanical properties of the grown crystal were determined and Vickers' hardness number was calculated.

Single crystals of a new semi-organic nonlinear optical material glycine hydrobromide were grown from solution by slow evaporation at room temperature. Good optical quality single crystals with dimensions 17×8×5 mm3 were obtained. The grown crystal had been confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and the vibrational frequencies of various functional groups in the crystals had been derived from Fourier transform infrared spectrum. The optical quality of the grown crystals was analyzed by the Ultraviolet visible spectrum method. The mechanical behavior of the grown crystal was evaluated by Vickers' micro-hardness indentation method. The nonlinear optical property of the crystal was confirmed by the Kurtz powder technique using Nd : YAG laser as a source.

Good transparent single crystals of N -(2 chlorophenyl)-(1-propanamide) have been grown by slow cooling solution growth technique. From the crystal structure analysis we infer that the crystal belongs to monoclinic system. The grown crystals were subjected to FT-IR and FT-Raman analyses for vibrational assignments, UV–Vis spectral studies for optical transmission and band gap determination, dielectric studies for the study of dependence of capacitance, dielectric constant, and conductivity with frequency and temperature and Laser damage threshold studies.

Nowadays more attention has been paid to the growth of organic nonlinear optical single crystals due to their high nonlinear optical efficiency and fairly good optical damage threshold comparable t...

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disorder with significantly shortened life expectancy. The major cause of mortality and morbidity is lung disease with increasing pulmonary exacerbations and decline in lung function predicting significantly poorer outcomes. The pathogenesis of lung disease in CF is characterised in part by decreased airway surface liquid volume and subsequent failure of normal mucociliary clearance. This leads to accumulation of viscous mucus in the CF airway, providing an ideal environment for bacterial pathogens to grow and colonise, propagating airway inflammation in CF. The use of nebulised hypertonic saline (HTS) treatments has been shown to improve mucus clearance in CF and impact positively upon exacerbations, quality of life, and lung function. Several mechanisms of HTS likely improve outcome, resulting in clinically relevant enhancement in disease parameters related to increase in mucociliary clearance. There is increasing evidence to suggest that HTS is also beneficial through its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce bacterial activity and biofilm formation. This review will first describe the use of HTS in treatment of CF focusing on its efficacy and tolerability. The emphasis will then change to the potential benefits of aerosolized HTS for the attenuation of receptor mediated neutrophil functions, including down-regulation of oxidative burst activity, adhesion molecule expression, and the suppression of neutrophil degranulation of proteolytic enzymes.

In this article, we have reported the growth of acetoacetanilide single crystal by solvent evaporation solution growth technique and its characterization. The solubility of acetoacetanilide was studied in different organic solvents. Its functional groups have been confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance and FT-IR studies. The thermal study reveals the thermal behavior of acetoacetanilide and the optical performance was tested by using UV–Vis measurements.

In the present work 4,4′-dihydroxyazobenzene was synthesized and grown as single crystal (2×5×10 mm3) by slow evaporation solution growth technique. The grown crystals were studied by powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. The vibrational frequencies of the grown crystal were derived from FTIR spectrum. The thermal, optical and mechanical properties were studied.

Carcass of a two years old doe on necropsy revealed multiple gray-white nodular lesions of about 2 cm diameter in the lung. The pre-scapular lymph node was about 3-5cm in diameter, hard in consistency and had a creamy-white cut surface. Cytological examination of impression smear from the lungs and pre-scapular lymph node revealed anisocytosis, anisokaryosis, vacuolation and hyperchromasia in epithelial cells. Microscopically, neoplastic epithelium surrounded by connective tissue stroma with marked nuclear pleomorphism could be observed in the lung tissue. The metastatic foci depicting acini of alveolar epithelial cells replacing the lymphoid tissue could be appreciated in the tissue sections of the pre-scapular lymph node. Based on the cytological and histopathological changes, the case was diagnosed as bronchogenic adenocarcinoma with metastasis to prescapular lymph node.

Expansion of human settlement and accompanying activities, especially the rapid urbanisation occurring in the developing countries, play an important role in global land use land cover change. The changes in land use associated with urban development affect the hydrological regime in many ways such as change in total runoff, flooding in low lying areas etc. Preparation of Land use map from toposheets and satellite imageries and their analysis by ArcGIS is an efficient method for assessing the landuse landcover change. Landuse landcover information have become important for landuse planning and resource management. In this study, Kazhakuttam block of Trivandrum district is taken as the study area. Here a study is conducted to assess the landuse landcover changes of Kazhakuttam block from 1967 to 2005 using GIS and ERDAS imagine softwares. The landuse map of 1967 is prepared from toposheets and landuse maps of 1999 and 2005 were made from satellite images. These maps are analysed to identify the land use changes of the study area.

The efficacy of valproic acid in the treatment of intractable chronic daily headache, unresponsive to traditional prophylactic medications, was examined prospectively in 16 patients. Dosage of the medication was adjusted to maintain serum valproic acid levels between 50 and 100 micrograms/mL, provided there were no significant side effects at that level. Valproic acid prophylaxis was of some benefit in only 2 of 16 patients. One of these two patients discontinued therapy due to side effects. Eight of the 16 patients reported side effects which included nausea, diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, sleepiness, confusion, blurred vision, and decreased libido. In conclusion, valproic acid was not effective in controlling chronic daily headache in the majority of patients in whom conventional therapy had failed, and 50% of patients reported side effects. There is a significant disparity in the reported efficacy of this drug in treating chronic daily headache. This disparity is most likely due to the poorly-defined nature of this variety of headache. It is, therefore, recommended that more stringent definition of this disorder be developed before therapeutic regimens are evaluated.

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare disease and that affecting specifically the sole of the foot, is even rarer. Here, we report the case of a 54-year-old female admitted with a painful ulcer on the sole of the right foot which was initially treated with empirical antibiotics and debridement. The disease was found to spread rapidly after each debridement. The culture reports were negative; rheumatology workup and Doppler study were within normal limits. A clinical suspicion of PG was made and was confirmed with tissue biopsy. She was started on oral steroids following which she dramatically improved. Thus, when a patient presents with a rapidly expanding painful ulcer in a vascular limb that is refractory to antibiotic treatment and exacerbating on debridement, it is imperative to consider the possibility of PG.