Mutations in the gene encoding the synaptic scaffolding protein SHANK3 are associated with autism spectrum disorders

SHANK3 (also known as ProSAP2) regulates the structural organization of dendritic spines and is a binding partner of neuroligins; genes encoding neuroligins are mutated in autism and Asperger syndrome. Here, we report that a mutation of a single copy of SHANK3 on chromosome 22q13 can result in language and/or social communication disorders. These mutations concern only a small number of individuals, but they shed light on one gene dosage-sensitive synaptic pathway that is involved in autism spectrum disorders.     

Formation of tough interlocking microstructures in silicon nitride ceramics by dynamic ripening

Ceramics based on Si(3)N(4) have been comprehensively studied and are widely used in structural applications. The development of an interlocking microstructure of elongated grains is vital to ensure that this family of ceramics have good damage tolerance. Until now this has been accomplished by heating the appropriate powder compacts to temperatures above 1,700 degrees C for extended periods. This procedure involves a necessary step of controlling the size and population of seeds added ex situ or formed in situ to ensure selective grain growth. Here we report the very fast (within minutes) in situ formation of a tough interlocking microstructure in Si(3)N(4)-based ceramics. The microstructures are obtained by a dynamic ripening mechanism, an anisotropic Ostwald ripening process that results from the rapid heating rate. The resulting microstructures are uniform and reproducible in terms of grain size distribution and mechanical properties, and are easily tailored by manipulating the kinetics. This process is very efficient and opens up new possibilities to optimize mechanical properties and cost-effectively manufacture ceramics.     

ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES FACING INDIA

INTRODUCTION India is among one of the ten most industrialized nations in the world. Increase in population has raised the urbar industrial, transport and agriculture demands which are major reasons for the degradation of the environmel condition. For India besides land and soil degradation, deforestation, low accessibility of water, ,industrial pollution and urban congestion are the major environmental issues of priority. The industries that generate huge quantities of waste are thermal power station, Iron and Steel Plants, Sugar, Paper and Fertilizer Industries.