Foam-based synthesis of cobalt nanoparticles and their subsequent conversion to Co<SUB>core</SUB>Ag<SUB>shell</SUB> nanoparticles by a simple transmetallation reaction

Cobalt nanoparticles have been synthesized via a novel, foam-based protocol. The foam is formed from an aqueous mixture of Co2+ ions, an anionic surfactant and oleic acid where the cobalt ions are electrostatically entrapped by the surfactant at the thin borders between the foam bubbles and their junctions. The entrapped cobalt ions may be reduced in-situ by a moderately strong reducing agent resulting in the formation of nanoparticles with the foam playing the role of a template. The nanoparticles are immediately capped and stabilized against oxidation by oleic acid present in the foam matrix. The oleic acid-capped Co nanoparticles can be redispersed either in an aqueous or organic medium making this procedure very attractive. The cobalt nanoparticles are readily converted to CocoreAgshell nanoparticles by simple addition of a silver salt to the Co nanoparticle solution, the cobalt atoms on the nanoparticle surface acting as localized reducing agents for the silver ions

Comparison of full sib, half sib and S,progenies in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.)

A field experiment was conducted at Jobner (Rajasthan), to compare different population improvement methods in a fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) population namely, UF-143. Estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher in full sib than S1 and half sib progenies for most of the traits. Heritability estimate was higher in full sib progenies for days to 50% flowering, seeds umbel-1 and test weight, while half sib showed maximum heritability for branches plan-1, umbels plan-1 and umbelletes umbel-1. S1 progenies recorded maximum heritability and genetic gain for seed yield plant-1. For most of the traits, full sib progenies recorded maximum genetic gain except plant height, umbellets umbel-1 and seed yield plant-1. &nbsp