Gamma ray shielding properties of borate glass samples containing oxides of lead and zinc are prepared by melt and quench technique and evaluated theoretically using XCOM computer software for gamma ray shielding properties. However, gamma ray shielding properties are discussed in terms of various calculated parameters such as half value layer, mean free path and mass attenuation coefficient. The calculated parameters are compared by the author with conventional shielding material concrete. FTIR studies are undertaken to investigate the various structural groups present in the prepared system. Furthermore, it was observed that the glass sample S1 posses minimum HVL value and maximum mass attenuation coefficient, It has been inferred that addition of lead improve the gamma ray shielding properties and simultaneously decrease the rigidity of the glass systems due to formation of non bridging oxygen. Gamma ray shielding properties of our glass systems have been compared with standard nuclear radiation shielding concrete.

No abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has today remained one of the world's greatest medical challenges. It is a metabolic disorder caused by inadequate insulin secretion and/or action leading to increased blood glucose levels (hyperglycaemia). World diabetes prevalence is estimated at over 400 million people representing some 8% of the population, while for Africa the prevalence rate is as high as 4.5%. 1 Mortality, morbidity and economic burden for the disease worldwide is high. Mortality is estimated at 5.0 million deaths per year globally and the economic burden stands at over 600 million dollars spent on the disease yearly. 2 Complications of the disease that leads to the mortality and the economic burden includes nephropathy, neuropathy, angiopathy, amputations and blindness. 3 Factors associated with the increase in diabetes prevalence include sedentary life styles, obesity, probable genetic factors and unhealthy eating habits. 4 Dietary regulation with exercise, oral hypoglycaemic drugs and insulin injections 5 remain the major management strategies for the disease by orthodox medical practitioners. Side effects, compliance and costs, thereby leading to