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Introduction: Anterior composite restorations present many aesthetic challenges for clinicians. Direct veneers provide chairside advantages such as evaluating tooth anatomy, shade selection, and correcting tooth morphology according to the patient's desire. In today's world, the use of digitalisation and 3D-printed models has grown. However, limitations of these are unknown and a research gap exists, with surface roughness being a major issue. Aim: To evaluate the surface roughness of clear silicon templates fabricated over 3D-printed models, blue inlay wax and dental stone. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study utilised both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study was conducted at the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Manubhai Patel Dental College and Hospital, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. The study was completed over three months. A total of 36 surfaces of clear silicone template (Exaclear) were obtained from two blocks each of 3D-printed model, blue inlay wax, and dental stone, measuring 30Ã--10Ã--10 mm. These blocks were divided into six units of 10Ã--5 mm (N=36) and were divided into three groups: 1) 3D-printed model; 2) Blue inlay wax; 3) Dental stone. Surface roughness was evaluated using a surface roughness tester and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Quantitative analysis of surface roughness was done using the surface roughness tester, and qualitative analysis was done using SEM. Statistical analysis was done using the posthoc Tukey Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test and statistical software SPSS Version 20.0. Results: The quantitative analysis showed the highest Roughness average (Ra) value mean±Standard Deviation (SD) for Group 1 (11.97±4.43 μm), followed by Group 3 (2.42±1.07 μm) and Group 2 (0.63±0.86 μm). SEM showed the presence of voids only in Group 1. Conclusion: Surface roughness of clear silicon template fabricated on wax surface is less as compared to templates fabricated on 3-D printed models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asurabandha area on the southern side of the main Sukinda Ultramafic Complex (SUC) in the State of Odisha hosts some irregular and sporadic chromitite bodies which are completely detached from the main SUC. The isolated chromitite bodies are highly altered. Chromitite samples from these isolated bodies have been studied using a polarising petrological microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), field emission-scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF) spectrometer and the findings are presented here. In this area, we have identified the associated silicate minerals with chromite to be primarily opal-CT and quartz, contrary to the conventional Fe–Mg silicates such as olivine, pyroxene, or serpentine, although in few instances, the Fe–Mg silicates are identified. The original Fe–Mg silicates have almost completely been replaced by the silica polymorphs. Occurrences of opal-CT and quartz have been identified from their prominent X-ray diffraction peaks at d-spacing of 4.10 Å (with a shoulder peak at 4.32 Å) and 3.34 Å, respectively. The phase compositions are also confirmed by SEM-EDAX analyses. The average composition of opal-CT was found to be (in wt.%) SiO2: 95.41, MgO: 1.75 and FeO: 1.74. The presence of MgO and FeO in the composition of opal-CT, along with relict mesh-like micro-structures, indicate its formation by silicification/opalization from serpentines. A low-temperature hydrothermal alteration process driven by Si- and CO2-rich fluids through fractures and fault zones might have caused the removal of Mg and Fe from primary ultramafic silicate minerals and precipitation of opal-CT. This replacement process involved the initial dissolution of serpentine with preferential leaching of the metallic ions (Mg, Fe) and simultaneous precipitation of amorphous silica to form possibly opal-A in the beginning and then to opal-CT which subsequently transforms to microquartz because of the ordering of structure and removal of water through the dissolution–precipitation mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Desmostachya bipinnata (Dharbe grass) has been used as a sacred plant in many of the rituals in India. A composite was prepared using hand layup using Desmostachya bipinnata particle with mesh size of 600microns. The specimens were evaluated for tensile, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness. The specimens were also investigated using scanning electron microscope. It is observed that the composite yielded better results in terms of tensile strength, but the results obtained for electromagnetic shielding effectiveness were not encouraging. The insufficient electromagnetic shielding effectiveness might be attributed to the size, shape, or distribution of the Desmostachya bipinnata particles within the composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Passive Microvolume Irrigation (PMI) with Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) has been proposed as a new method for root canal disinfection. It is based on the concept that irregular surface characteristics of endodontic instruments can carry NaOCl into the canal space with controlled fluid volume, without applying any pressure. Aim: To compare and evaluate the efficacy of 3% and 5% NaOCl PMI, Saline PMI, and 3% NaOCl Standard Irrigation (SI) in removing the Smear Layer (SL) from the root canal walls at the cervical, middle, and apical thirds of single-rooted teeth. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics at Vishnu Dental College, Andhra Pradesh, India. The study was conducted in February 2018. Forty maxillary central incisors with a single canal, extracted within three months of the study, were collected. The teeth were divided into four groups (n=10) based on the irrigation method: Group-1 (3.0% NaOCl SI), Group-2 (3.0% NaOCl PMI), Group-3 (5.0% NaOCl PMI), and Group-4 (Saline PMI). All samples were instrumented upto F4 size with Protaper rotary files, and a final rinse of 17% Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) was used. SL removal was evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 21.0. Statistical tests used were Kruskal Wallis and Mann-Whitney-U tests. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant for all comparisons. Results: There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in SL removal between 3.0% NaOCl SI, 3.0% NaOCl PMI, and 5.0% NaOCl PMI in the middle and apical thirds of the root canals. However, 5.0% NaOCl PMI showed significantly higher efficiency in SL removal at the cervical third compared to the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Passive microvolume irrigation with 3% and 5% NaOCl showed comparable efficacy to 3% hypochlorite SI in the middle and apical thirds of the root canal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before proceeding with any type of analysis, the condition of preservation of microfossil shells must be determined. Preservation of the shell affects tasks, such as holotype specimen selection, distribution chart, and specimen selection for geochemical analysis. The typical way to determine the degree of alteration is to use a visual examination under the stereo microscope. The deviation of visual characteristics such as colour and smoothness of the shell surface from unaltered shells depicts the alteration status. However, our eyes are frequently misled by the roughness of the shell created by tiny crystals that form due to recrystallization during the diagenesis process and are perceived to be smooth. In turn, the shell is regarded as well-preserved. To address these limitations, we have analyzed scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of ostracod shells using ImageJ, an image processing software, to determine the roughness parameters based on the grey value of the image. In addition, we compared the values of several parameters with different types of alterations, such as recrystallization and dissolution. This study aims to characterize the surface roughness of eight selected ostracod specimens from Middle Callovian to Upper Oxfordian beds of the southern part of Mainland Kachchh. The selected eight species - Cytherella masuguluensis, Progonocythere sp. A, Progonocythere jaisalmerensis, Bythocypris rajasthanensis, Paracypris contermia, Galliaecytheridea remota, Cytherelloidea sp. A, Cytherelloidea sp. B - belong to six genera and five families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A detailed mineralogical characterization study. • A feasibility study for the potential utilization of coal gasification ash. • First time study of a coal gasification waste generated from an Indian plant. • Optical and stereomicroscopy, FESEM with EDS, XRF, SEM-EDX, XRD, and TGA applied. This work aims to perform the applied mineralogical characterization of coal gasification ash (CGA) generated from a commercial fixed bed downdraft gasification plant in eastern India. Analytical and characterization techniques such as stereomicroscopy, optical microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) attached, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer associated scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were applied for analyzing the coal and the corresponding gasification ash sample. These analytical techniques illustrate that SiO 2 and Al 2 O 3 are the major gasification ash phases, accounting for almost 85% of the entire CGA composition. The dominant mineral phases, such as quartz, mullite, and other aluminosilicates, provide an opportunity for utilization in construction and refractory material manufacturing. Moreover, confirming the presence of rare and valuable earth elements (RVEEs) in the CGA sample with SEM-EDX analysis unearths a new application window in meeting the requirement of the RVEEs starved nation like India, where very few commercial-scale coal gasification units are operational. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spore balls of false smut of rice caused by Ustilagonoidea virens were collected from different major rice belts of eastern part of India. Ten isolates from ten different locations were collected and isolated in the laboratory for their, cultural, morphological and molecular characterization. Potato sucrose agar media was used for their cultural studies and observation on colony diameter, colour and sporulation were made. Spores of all the isolates were observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM) and light microscope for spore size, spine length and colour. Differences in colony characters were observed where the highest mycelial growth was observed in isolate Uv2 with 5.33 cm colony diameter and lowest mycelial growth was observed in Uv9 (3.70 cm). Most of the isolates produced white and circular colony. Spores of all the isolates observed under a light microscope appeared to be olive green in colour, however, a significant variation in spore size and spike length under SEM was observed. Spores size and spike length of different isolates ranged between 4.533 μm to 6.169 μm and 362.567 nm to 799.533 nm, respectively. For genetic identification and variability, DNAs of isolates were amplified using ITS1 and ITS 4 primers. The length of nucleotide sequences of different isolates varied from 583 to 606 bp. Phylogenetic analysis revealed genetic variation among the isolates, dividing them into two major groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anopheles subpictus (Grassi, 1899) is a potent malarial vector responsible for transmission of malarial pathogens in different regions of the world. The present study was conducted to investigate different characteristic features of eggs and adult body parts of An. subpictus mosquito prevalent in Hooghly, West Bengal, India. The adult mosquitoes were collected from rural areas of Hooghly and maintained in the laboratory. Eggs and adult body parts of An. subpictus were prepared for the SEM study and observed through a scanning electron microscope. The eggs of An. subpictus were found to be single, black in color with average length and width of 499.68 ± 11.33 µm and 96.23 ± 3.0 µm, respectively. Most of the adult body parts were found to be covered with fine setae and scales of unique characteristic features. Several morphological characters of An. subpictus mosquito of Hooghly showed marked differences when compared with the same species of other geographical regions. These morphological features of different life stages of An. subpictus mosquito revealed through scanning electron microscopy will surely illuminate the current knowledge about the vector identification of the study areas, which might contribute to vector management programmes in the Hooghly district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the recent upsurge in the construction of new ballasted railway tracks and their maintenance, the high requirement of ballast and subballast materials has become an important challenge. The use of industrial by-products in the construction of railroads can be an approach for the sustainable development of railway. With an increase in steel production, the generation of steel slag is also expected to increase at an alarming rate in India. At present, the utilization of this by-product of the steel industry is marginal; however, it has an enormous potential to be used in railroad construction. Therefore an attempt has been made to use steel slag as the subballast material in the present work. The objective of this study is to assess the strength and stiffness, leaching behavior, and mineralogical characteristics of the cement-stabilized steel slag (CSS) as a subballast layer and its implications in the design methodology. A series of laboratory tests such as compressive strength, splitting tensile, flexural strength, and flexural modulus tests were carried out on the CSS with four different (1%, 3%, 5%, and 7%) cement contents. In addition, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were also employed to examine the mineralogical characteristics. The results suggest that cement stabilizations lead to strength and stiffness gain along with resistance to the leaching of the trace metals such as arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, and zinc. The results show the steel slag has the potential to be used as subballast material. A step-by-step design methodology suitable for cement-stabilized steel slag as a subballast layer has been proposed by modifying the existing Association of American Railroads (AAR) method along with a practical design example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rare incidence of multiple bacterial infections was reported in Litopenaeus vannamei grow‐out ponds in India. The pathogenic organisms identified are Aeromonas veronii, Bacillus flexus, Kurthia gibsonii, Shewanella decolorationis, Bacillus cereus and Shewanella amazonensis. The infected shrimp showed various clinical and morphological changes such as mucus secretion in the hepatopancreas, bacterial spots in the carapace, red or pink discoloration of abdomen with black stripes and highly melanized body. The Histological studies of the hepatopancreas revealed bacterial plaque in the lumen, inflammatory response, necrosis of connective tissue and lipid droplets. The histology of stomach detected degradation of spongy connective tissue, hypertrophied nucleus and the abdomen showed bacterial plaques in the gaps of the muscle fibre. Histochemically, both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria's were identified in the hepatopancreas and the presence of mucus in the lumen of hepatopancreatic microtubules was confirmed by Alcian blue staining. The electron microscopic studies of the infected shrimp showed multiple bacterial infections and cellular responses like phagocytosis in the hepatopancreas, using transmission electron microscope and scanning electron microscopic confirmed the presence of bacillus and coccobacillus‐shaped bacteria in carapace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, during mining and ore processing, ore fine generation is a common phenomenon, in which more than 60% of process ore becomes discarded material. To explore the alternative of high-grade ores, mutual replacement with the utility of dump ore fines is the best way. With this perspective, Kiruburu iron ore mine (Iron Ore No.1) and Meghataburu iron ore mine (Iron Ore No.2) dumped fines were chosen for a Blaine no. investigation, in the connection of firing temperatures, to get optimum desirable physical properties, Cold Compression Strength (C.C.S.),and Apparent Porosity (A.P.), with physico-chemical properties, Reducibility Degradation Index (R.D.I.), and Reducibility Index (R.I.). To characterize pellet properties with input variables, a microstructure phase study has been conducted using a scanning electron microscope (S.E.M.), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The Iron Ore No.1 and 2 fine pellets survey showed good, desirable properties, at the Blaine no., of 1678 cm2/g and 2311 cm2/g (corresponding to 200 mesh size), and the best results are attained at a firing temperature of 1300 °C. Thermal kinetic analysis of the heating of pellets has been done to knowthe activation energy of different ore characteristics. The results showed that Iron Ore No.2 pellets have high activation energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of lignocellulosic wastes in and around the municipality area requires special consideration. Continuous deposition of these wastes to the nearby areas led to gradual deterioration of the environment. The objective of this study was to produce cellulase from the bacteria isolated from the unexplored rainforest of NE-India for lignocellulosic waste hydrolysis. Based on carboxymethyl cellulose utilization and the congo red test, Novosphingobium sp. Cm1 was found to be the most promising strain out of 114 bacterial isolates and the strain was selected for further study. The optimization of the fermentative conditions for maximum enzyme activity was carried out using one factor-at-a-time strategy and the optimum pH, temperature and incubation time was recorded as pH 5, 37 °C and 96 h respectively. The maximum β–1,4–endoglucanase activity was observed with 1.5% CMC (5.1 ± 0.05 U/mL) and 0.25% yeast extract (7.6 ± 0.72 U/mL). The bacterial waste hydrolysis ability was investigated using three wastes where vegetable waste showed maximum activity of 3.4 ± 0.48 U/mL. Bacterial interaction and waste utilization were verified using Scanning Electron Microscope and Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. The present study confirmed the promising ability of Novosphingobium sp. to waste hydrolysis. Further investigations may lead to new possibilities for low-cost enzyme production that will help to meet the rising cellulase demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melia dubia is a rapidly expanding tree species in southern India, but its main drawback has been limited use in wood-based panel products until recently. To address this research gap, this study aimed to develop three reinforcement materials for producing Reinforced Laminated Veneer Lumber (RLVL) using Melia dubia. Three types of reinforcement materials, chopped glass fiber mat (CGM), glass fiber mesh (GM), and bamboo mat (BM) were employed in two layers to manufacture RLVL. The investigated parameters included physical, mechanical, and bonding performance. Furthermore, morphological images were analyzed using optical and scanning electron microscopes. The research findings revealed that the highest performance was demonstrated by BM, followed by GM and CGM. These results suggest that all three reinforcements enhanced the mechanical properties and overall performance of RLVL. Arranging the reinforcement layers closer to the surface veneer layer in the assembly resulted in outstanding mechanical properties for RLVL. The performance is superior to solid wood made from the same wood species. The findings indicate that RLVL demonstrated superior mechanical properties to laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and solid wood. The modulus of rupture for LVL reinforced with CGM, GM and BM was 7.27%, 30.91%, and 32.73% greater respectively, than that of unreinforced LVL. The composite LVL reinforced with bamboo and glass matting exhibits potential for successful utilization in outdoor structural applications, including beams, rafters, and purlins. • LVL reinforced with CGM, GM, and BM exhibited excellent modulus of rupture. • RLVL demonstrated superior mechanical properties to LVL and solid wood. • LVL reinforced with GM and BM can successfully utilized in outdoor structural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River sand samples have been collected from Ponnai river, Tamil Nadu, India for characterization of minerals and heavy metals by different spectroscopic techniques. Initially, the samples were subjected by Fourier Transform-Infra Red (FT-IR) spectroscopic technique and infra-red absorption bands values are observed in the range of 515–520, 695–700, 775–780 cm−1 which shows the presence of quartz in all the samples. Similarly, infra-red peaks were absorbed for feldspar, kaolinite, calcite, gibbsite and organic carbon and confirmed by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) technique. Additionally, zircon, aragonite, magnetite and kyanite minerals were identified in the samples using only the XRD method. The concentration of heavy metals such as Pb, Cr, Zn, Ni, Hg, As, Mn, Cu has been determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). An average metal concentration measured in mg kg−1 were: Pb 0.12, As 0.15, Hg 0.13, Cu 2.80, Zn 10.15 Cr 12.70, Ni 2.86 and Mn 104.94 and hence found in the order of Mn > Cr > Zn > Ni > Cu > As > Hg > Pb. These average values do not exceed the world average value and hence potentially do not affect the quality of sand in the river. In addition to that, presences of heavy metals are confirmed by scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS) analysis. In order to understand the possible natural and anthropogenic sources of heavy metals, multivariate statistical techniques such as Pearson correlation, principal component and cluster analysis were performed. Results obtained from the statistical techniques were good agreement with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sediment characteristics and distribution analysis along the Chandipur Coast in Odisha, India was performed using a variety of techniques that include sedimentary characteristics including variation in grain size, shape and character of quartz grain surfaces (determined in light microscope and electron microscope scanning). Samples were taken from various locations representing high-tide areas and low-tide areas for analysis of the grain size, intended to determine physical properties and textural parameters such as mean, sorting, skewness and kurtosis. Grain size distribution research was conducted to characterize sedimentary transportation behaviours. CM diagram defines the rolling, saltation and graded suspension process for sediment deposition at the beach. Linear Discriminant Function (LDF) indicates the superiority of marine environment with lower deposition areas. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to examine the quartz grains to determine the origin of the sediments and to establish the physical and chemical processes that occurred during their period of deposition in recent coastal sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Puparia and third instar of a new diminutive whitefly, Regiominutus ventralis gen. et sp. nov. found infesting underside leaves of Aglaia elaeagnoides (A. Juss) (Meliaceae) on the Andaman Islands, India, are diagnosed, described and discussed. Regiominutus gen. nov. differs from allied genera, Aleuroclava Singh, Aericerus Dubey, Aleuroparvus Dubey, Aleuropleurocelus Drews and Sampson and Tetralicia Harrison in having a submarginal ventral groove, from the former two in having a deflexed submargin and smaller ventral surface and from the latter two in having a caudal furrow. Affinities and differences of the new genus shared with related genera are discussed. Puparium characters observed in slide mounts versus scanning electron microscope (SEM) images are presented. Line drawings, habitus images and SEM, microphotographs of the type specimens are given for the new taxa. This is the first whitefly species to be recorded from this host plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Palaeo- to Meso-Proterozoic (1.0–2.4 Ga) North Singhbhum Mobile Belt (NSMB) is an assembly of multiphase folded, low- to medium-grade meta-sedimentary and meta-igneous rocks, lying within the north Singhbhum crustal province. The mobile belt is situated between the Archean Singhbhum craton in the south and the Meso/Neo-Proterozoic (0.9–1.7 Ga) Chotanagpur Gneissic Complex in the north. Gold mineralisation of moderate concentration is reported from different parts of NSMB along shear /fracture zones within the volcano-sedimentary and meta-sedimentary rocks sequence. The mineralisation is structurally controlled and is associated with higher order shear zones. Gold occurs in association with sulfides like pyrite, arsenopyrite, pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, etc. This work attempts to map the auriferous shear/fracture zone along the Babaikundi-Birgaon axis (BBA), which lies within the NSMB. In the present study, combined geophysical approach comprising self-potential (SP), electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and induced polarisation (IP) methods were used for mapping of subsurface gold prospects. SP data were collected along 7 profiles at 10 m station interval with approximate profile separation of 100 m. The anomalies of possible ore bodies were found at depth of about 18–25 m using Euler deconvolution of SP data. The ERT and IP data were collected along four profiles at 10 m electrode spacing with approximate profile separation of 100 m. The inverted resistivity sections indicate very low resistivity value in the depth range of ∼20 m inferring highly conducting, while relatively high chargeability are also observed at the depth range of ∼25 m. The possible existence of Babaikundi-Birgaon lineation and the occurrences of sulfide minerals in quartz reef associated with gold mineralisation were mapped based on the horizontal locations and extensions of negative anomaly in SP data, low resistivity in 2-dimensional (2D)-inverted resistivity section and high chargeability in 2D-inverted IP section. Previous studies based on electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis over the study area substantiate our combined geophysical interpretations for the presence of gold prospective zones along the BBA. Highlights Integrated geophysical approach comprising SP, ERT and IP methods Delineation of BBA Mapping of subsurface gold prospects/ mineralisation Validation of results using borehole data, EPMA and SEM–SED analysis of rock samples (a) Map showing profiles AA/, BB/, CC/ and DD/across the Babaikundi-Birgaon Axis (BBA). (b) Upward continued (60 m) self-potential (SP) anomaly map showing possible extension of a part of BBA. Schematic resistivity (c) and chargeability (d) distribution models showing possible extension of a part of the BBA. (e) mineralised sample with sulfide hosted quartz reef in BBA. The possible existence of BBA and the occurrences of gold-bearing sulfide minerals in quartz reef are mapped based on the horizontal locations and extensions of negative SP, high conducting / low resistivity in electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and high chargeability in Induced Polarization (IP). Note that profiles C-C/ and D-D/ are not parallel to each other; their field orientation is shown in Figure 1(c) and Figure 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the seed coat structure of nine species from the genus Impatiens from Northeast India. A review of the available literature showed a scarcity of data on seed sizes and shapes, as well as a complete lack of information on the ultrastructure of seeds from five taxa of Impatiens determined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Photographs of the surface structure of seeds from the analyzed species were taken using an SEM and, from these, we measured the length and width of the seeds. The results showed differences in the seed ultrastructure and metric traits within the studied taxa. Based on the ornamentation of the epidermal cells, we distinguished three morphological types: protrusive, granulate, and reticulate. The seeds of the investigated species had ellipsoid, subellipsoid, or subspheroid shapes. Their lengths and widths ranged from 1.2 to 3.6 mm and 0.7 to 2.1 mm, respectively. The results of the study showed that the ultrastructures of Impatiens seeds are different among taxa and for some species can be used as a diagnostic character for their identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Andaman padauk (Pterocarpus dalbergioides Roxb.) is an important endemic tree species of the Andaman Islands, India, belonging to the family Fabaceae. We studied the seed microstructures which provide information on the physiological features of germination (i.e. factors responsible for the resumption of growth of embryo). Seed anatomy/morphostructures revealed information on its germination physiology (for ex situconservation), dormancy barriers and further taxonomical classification. The seed samples were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to study the chemical composition of the seeds. In the SEM images, seed thickness of the parenchyma layer was about 53.16 μm, while that of the osteosclereids (OH) and macrosclereids (MH) layers was 23.95 and 84.68 μm respectively. The size of OS cells had a length of 25.81–34.56 μm; diameter 12.14–16.5 μm and width 7.97–12.60 μm. FTIR spectra of padauk seed assignments were used to determine the probable chromophoric groups that are likely to be present in the seeds. Various functional groups such as N–H, O–H, C–H, C=O, C–O were identified in the seeds. The results indicate the presence of carbohydrates, amino acids, amides, esters, ethers, phenols, proteins and fats in the padauk seeds. These observations would be helpful in correlating several aspects of seed germination/dormancy physiology of this endemic species, which has applications in ex situ conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Puparia of a new whitefly genus and species, Margaritaplena ovatagen. et sp. nov. found feeding on the underside of the leaves of Combretum sp. (Combretaceae) are described from the Andaman Islands, India. It differs from the allied genera, Asialeyrodes Corbett, Icfrealeyrodes Dubey and Sundararaj, and Vasantharajiella PMM David in shape, the large-sized geminate pores, and thoracic and caudal tracheal pores comprising microtubercles, and are inset from the margin, and also from Asialeyrodes in a complete submarginal furrow, and in lacking the first abdominal setae and caudal furrow. Line drawings, images for the habitus, types, and scanning electron microscope photomicrographs are provided for the new taxa. An identification key to puparia differentiating the new genus from related Indian Aleyrodinae genera is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kachchh Basin is well known for its Jurassic sediments and hydrocarbon prospects, but geochemically, these sediments remained less explored. Here, we present petrography, mineralogy, and geochemistry of the Middle Jurassic sandstone and shale of the Chari Formation exposed at Jumara Dome, Kachchh Basin, to understand their provenance, tectonic setting, source area weathering, and paleoclimate. Petrographic analysis shows that the sandstone consists of abundant quartz, feldspar (K‐feldspar and plagioclase), mica (muscovite and biotite), and lithic fragments. The X‐ray diffraction analysis of both sandstone and shale reveals the presence of abundant quartz, and lesser amount of kaolinite, illite, and chlorite. The presence of these clay minerals was also attested by scanning electron microscope analysis. Based on framework composition and geochemistry, the sandstone is classified as arkose to subarkose and shale as graywackes. Detrital modes and geochemical data suggest the derivation of these clastic rocks from a felsic source, partially influenced by sediment recycling and deposited in a passive margin setting in a rifted basin. Values of weathering indices including chemical index of alteration, plagioclase index of alteration, chemical index of weathering, and index of compositional variability indicate that the rocks of Jumara Dome are mature and the source area has undergone a moderate to high degree of chemical weathering under warm and humid climatic conditions. The petrography, bulk mineralogy, scanning electron microscope analysis, and geochemical composition in conjunction with paleocurrent data affirm the supply of detritus for Jumara Dome from the Aravalli Craton situated to the east and northeast and Nagar Parkar Massif situated to the north and northwest of the basin. This study endorses the formation of Transgondwanan seaway route during the Late Oxfordian, which caused a marine transgression onto the land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analytical investigations through phytochemical screening, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and light microscopic observation of the earthen plaster of Karla Caves of western India identified the presence of antifungal, antibacterial and insect repellent Careya arborea stem fibres as a vegetal additive. The scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (SEM‐EDX) study also revealed the inclusion of rice (Oryza sativa) husk as a plant additive in the plaster. In the high rain‐fed coastal regions of western India, the antimicrobial, antioxidant and termite‐resistance properties of C. arborea helped the survival of the plaster in unfavourable climatic conditions. Besides, the C. arborea and rice husk together played a role in reducing cracks, decreasing the density, and imparting a plasticity and a durability to the plaster. The liquid Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) of organic extracts revealed carboxylic acid (fatty acids)‐based additives in the earthen plaster. From the gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis of the plaster, the presence of animal milk fat, animal and vegetable fat, and vegetable oil was identified, and probably used to strengthen the earthen plaster for their resistance to tensile stress. The analysis also diagnoses the inclusion of methyl commate B, a resinous material obtained from the Burseraceae plant family, which has antimicrobial properties, through GC‐MS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new petrified palm stem Palmoxylon dindoriensis Khan, Roy et Bera, sp. nov. from the latest Maastrichtian (late Cretaceous)-earliest Danian (early Paleocene) sediments of the Deccan Intertrappean beds of Madhya Pradesh, central India is reported. Sections from different parts of the recovered stem were prepared by using standard thin section techniques and studied under transmitted light compound and scanning electron microscopes. The significant anatomical characters of the present fossil stem are the presence of well-preserved fibrovascular bundles (fvbs) with reniform type of dorsal fibrous sclerenchymatous part (dcap), two metaxylem vessel elements in each fvb, well-developed two-layered tabular parenchyma around dcap of fvb, fibrous bundles throughout the CZ, highly compact ground parenchyma tissue and the absence of centrifugal differentiation of fibrous part of fvb. The aforesaid anatomical attributes reveal its close resemblance with the extant taxa of subfamily Coryphoideae of the family Arecaceae having Cocos-type general stem organization. The core distribution of modern palms and the presence of highly compact ground parenchyma of the present fossil suggest that they thrived under a tropical, terrestrial warm, humid environment during the time of deposition (latest Maastrichtianearliest Danian). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, X‐ray diffractometer, optical microscope, and scanning electron microscope were used to analyze the plowshare excavated from Ganwaria, UP, India. The main objective of the investigation was to determine the type of alloy, analysis of slag inclusion, and corrosion behavior. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed the presence of α‐iron. Microstructure consists of ferrite and pearlite grains; ferrite phase was soft in comparison to the pearlite. Optical micrograph at lower magnification revealed slag inclusions aligned in a specific direction, which indicates that the forge welding technique was used in the manufacturing of the object. The microstructural examination revealed that the object was manufactured from carbon steel. Entrapped slag inclusions were observed by scanning electron microscope and X‐ray mapping, and slags were identified as SiO2 and MgO. Goethite and lepidocrocite corrosion compound were found on the surface of the object. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new whitefly species, Pealius satakshiae Dubey, found infesting Quercus leucotrichophora A. Camus (Fagaceae) in the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh, India, is described. Puparia of the new species differ from described Pealius species in being larger in size, having a differentiated cephalus, rhachisform abdomen and reduced abdominal segment VII, and lacking the first abdominal setae. Puparial characteristics for the genus Pealius Quaintance and Baker in relation to new species are discussed. Camera lucida drawings, images of habitus and holotype, and scanning electron microscope photomicrographs are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • River silt and wollastonite were used as ingredients to fabricate ceramic tiles. • River silt was used for replacing quartz and wollastonite in place of feldspar. • Quartz and feldspar replacing tiles specimen sintered at 1100 °C fulfill ISO standard. Abstract This study investigates the feasibility of using river silt and wastes derived wollastonite as ingredients to produce ceramic tiles. Silts are collected from Kosi river, India and wollastonite are synthesized through waste eggshells and rice husk ash (RHA) at 1100 °C. Different samples are fabricated with different compositions based upon partial and full replacement of quartz and feldspar by the silt and wollastonite, respectively. The samples are prepared by semi-dry process and sintering is done at different temperatures, i.e., 1000 °C, 1100 °C and 1130 °C in air atmosphere. Several characterizations like densification behavior, bulk density (BD), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), compressive strength (CS), three-point bending strength (BS) and acid–alkali resistance of sintered specimen are investigated. The obtained results show that the use of silt is reduced the physical and mechanical properties of tile samples at low sintering temperature but at high temperature, mechanical properties don't have significant influence. Subsequently, all the properties are greatly improved with the addition of wollastonite in the place of K-feldspar. "sw-3" sample (fully replaced quartz and feldspar) sintered at 1100 °C fulfills the ISO standard and offers bending strength ∼48.82 MPa and water absorption ∼0.36 wt%. This promising characteristic confirms the feasibility of recycling wastes for tiles manufacturing and leads to environmental and economic benefits in ceramic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Macrochlamys has been described from Western Himalaya, India. A total of 12 dry and seven live specimens of Macrochlamys leggeae sp. nov. were collected from the high-altitude region of Valley of Flowers National Park and are described here as a new species based on morph-taxonomy, conchological differences, and characters of the radula and genitalia. Collected specimens were compared with the closely related species Macrochlamys nuda (Pfeiffer, 1852), Macrochlamys vesicula (Benson, 1838), Macrochlamys glauca (Pfeiffer, 1846) and Macrochlamys kuluensis Blanford, 1904 and found to be significantly different in morphometric characters and in shell ratio. Additionally, high-resolution scanning electron microscope images of the radula with rechidian teeth measurements and a detailed description of the genitalia of M. leggeae are included. The new species is named after Joan Margaret Legge, Botanist of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, who lost her life during floral study in the Valley of Flowers National Park in 1939. In addition to the description of the new species, a complete list of Macrochlamys species recorded from India is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to inaccessibility and tough conditions (high-altitude low-oxygen region) very less information is available about the Indian Tethys Himalayan sequences, particularly geochemical data are scarce. An attempt is made in the present study to evaluate the sediment geochemistry and paleo-redox conditions of Devonian–Carboniferous black shales from the Spiti region, Tethys Himalaya, using multi proxy approach. Besides black shales, this paper also provides the first in-depth study of the geochemistry of phosphatic nodules (hosted by the black shales) that will allow primary and secondary processes to be understood. Geochemical investigations, particularly redox-sensitive trace element ratios (for e.g. V/(V + Ni) > 0.5; Ni/Co = 4.3–7.2; V/Cr > 2 and positive Ce anomalies), suggest deposition of these black shales under sub-oxic to anoxic marine conditions, thus recording an ocean anoxic event in the region. These ocean anoxic events of Devonian–Carboniferous Spiti black shales, which possess distinctive geochemical signatures, can very well be correlated with global events such as Hangenberg Events and the Lower Alum Shale Event. The span of the chemical index of alteration (CIA) values (54–78), variation of ∆4Si% parameter (82–3) and C values (0.1–0.6) recorded in the black shales strongly indicate varying degrees of weathering conditions in the source area, which in turn reflect fluctuating climatic conditions prevailing during the deposition of these sediments in Devonian–Carboniferous period in the Spiti region. The distinct geochemical characteristics such as Y, Sr and rare earth element (REE) enrichments (particularly middle REE enrichments with a "hat-shaped" pattern) with high P2O5 contents (up to 14 wt%) distinguish the nodules from the host rocks (black shales). SEM (scanning electron microscope) results, supplemented by XRD (X-ray diffraction) studies of the nodules, show the dominance of calcium, silica and phosphatic phases. The diversity of clay minerals, significant variations in mineralogical composition and lack of any continuous vertical trend in the nodules suggest a relatively low impact on the primary environmental signal by burial diagenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ecological functions of the aerial hanging roots (velamen roots) in orchids are not yet fully understood. Aims: The aim of this work was to explore the velamen-root-associated fungal community of Acampe praemorsa and its variation in relation to three different geographic locations and to examine the surface characteristics of the velamen roots in attached positions. Methods: Segments of velamen roots of A. praemorsa collected from different geographic locations of Kerala, India were screened for the presence of velamen-root-associated fungi. The isolated strains were identified by morphological and nrITS DNA barcoding. Surface characteristics of the host-attached or soil-attached velamen roots were analysed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results: The SEM observations of the host-attached or soil-attached surface of velamen roots of A. praemorsa show tufts of unicellular hairs arising from the surface of contact. 211 fungal strains belonging to 15 taxa were discovered from the velamen roots; the nrITS nucleotide sequences of 13 taxa are deposited in GenBank. Conclusions: Fifteen endophytic fungal associates were identified from the velamen roots of A. praemorsa, which showed variation in their community assemblages in plant specimens from different geographic locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study included 21 newly isolated clinical samples of Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus) screened in patients (six male, fifteen female) from various states of India with different infections (urinary tract infections, blood, pus and eye infections). All isolates were identified as Group B Streptococcus (GBS) using hemolytic properties, serogrouping and MALDI-TOF-MS analysis. Six virulence genes, cfb (100%), cylE (90.4%), lmp (85.7%), bca (71.4%), rib (38%) and bac (4.7%) were detected via polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Distribution studies of these six genes revealed five isolates containing five virulence genes (23.8%), followed by ten isolates containing four virulence genes (47.6%). The twenty GBS isolates selected on the glass surface included non-biofilm producers (n = 6, 30%), weak (n = 11, 55%) and moderate biofilm producers (n = 3, 15%). On the polystyrene surface, weak (n = 4, 20%), moderate (n = 2, 10%) and strong (n = 14, 70%) biofilm producers were detected. Live-dead cell staining revealed that more viable cells accumulated in the S. ag 7420 isolate than in the AH1 isolate. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) biofilm analysis showed S. ag AH1 cells appeared as chain-like structures, whereas the S. ag 7420 isolate biofilm cells appeared as fork-like structures on the glass surface. Biofilm elements were analyzed using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDAX) for both isolates and 13 elements with different orders of composition were found. Thus, virulence gene detection, distribution and biofilm formation by these new clinical isolates suggested the virulent nature of these pathogens, which might cause different levels of disease severity in humans. [Display omitted] • A 21 GBS isolates were isolated from UTIs, blood, pus and eye infections. • GBS isolates were identified by hemolysis, serogrouping and MALDI-TOF-MS. • Detection and distribution of cfb, cylE , lmp , bca , rib and bac genes were analysed. • A 20 GBS isolates biofilms were analysed on glass and polystyrene surfaces. • Live-dead cell staining assay revealed more viable cells in S. ag 7420 than AH1 isolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blackgram, an important pulse crop of India and other Asian countries, is a rich source of protein. Genetic improvement in this crop is generally slow-paced due to the lack of wide genetic variability available for selection. To create variability for important morphological traits and yield, induced mutagenesis was attempted in a popular blackgram cultivar CO 6 using gamma rays (γ rays-60Co) and a combination of ethyl methanesulphonate (EMS) and gamma rays. In M 1 generation, the mutagenic treatments of 200 Gy γ rays and 200 Gy + 20 mM EMS showed a high percentage of viable and chlorophyll mutants. However, in M 2 generation, 400 Gy + 20 mM EMS generated a higher proportion of viable mutations. A broad spectrum of viable macro mutants namely variation in growth habit, duration, size of leaf and pod, nature of pod and seed, seed yield and protruded stigma mutant were observed. The combination treatments exhibited a maximum frequency of viable macro mutations. Among viable macro mutations, the growth habit mutants recorded maximum frequency, followed by leaf mutants and pod mutants. The protruded stigma mutant was isolated at the higher dose of 400 Gy of γ rays. Studies on palynological traits among fertile and sterile plants using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed variations in pollen and anther length and shape among the mutants. The pollen lumina and muri shape in the fertile plant were observed as polygonal and narrow straight, whereas it was collapsed in the sterile plant. The inheritance pattern for most of the viable macro mutants was true-breeding which was further confirmed in the M 3 generation. These viable mutants could be used for the blackgram improvement program. • γ rays and EMS mutagens effectively created novel mutants in blackgram. • Under Scanning Electron Microscope, variations in anther and pollen length of sterile and fertile mutants were observed. • Mutants with short duration, bold seeds and high yield were isolated. • These agronomically superior mutants are useful as donors and improved genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination of urea in milk is inevitable in the dairy industry for the quality control processes. A simple and cost-effective method was developed to determine the concentration of urea in milk by silver nanoparticles (uncapped and citrate capped) and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. The developed nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Vis, scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and a colour change was noted from yellow to blue upon nanoparticles interaction with urea. A predictive model was developed using the spectral data from the analyzed samples. The developed model was able to measure urea concentration (between 6 mg/dL to 90 mg/dL) in milk with the coefficient of determination (R2) more than0.90 and was validated through para -dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (DMAB) method suggested by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The average accuracy and sample percent relative standard deviation (% RSD) obtained through the developed method + model ranged from 62.67 to 121.85% and 0.11–1.21%. The regression model for uncapped nanoparticles was found to be best-fitted (having R2 = 0.92, average accuracy 103.75 ± 8.69%), with higher closeness to the values obtained for urea by FSSAI-DMAB method. This proposed study proves to be useful for the qualitative and quantitative determination of urea in milk by small businesses in the dairy industry. • Detection of urea in milk through silver nanoparticles based UV-VIS spectroscopy. • Spectral data based development of predictive model for urea determination in milk. • The method is simple, cost-effective and beneficial for quality control of milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The East coast of India is subject to continuous changes by high energy events. We sought to assess the depositional conditions along the coast from the geophysical and sedimentological character of the dune sands of the Gopalpur and Paradeep coast of Odisha, and the Sagarnagar coast of North Visakhapatnam. Quartz layers of the heavy mineral-rich zone collected at a depth of ~2 m from the landward foot of the dunes in the Visakhapatnam and Odisha coast, gave the OSL age estimates as 1,050 ± 50 and 260 ± 10 years respectively, revealing that the age of the dunes in Visakhapatnam are older than those on the Odisha coast. Episodic high energy events have affected the coast. Evidence from ground penetrating radar data consists of three stratigraphic units. The upper unit consists of vague reflections, parallel to the ground in continuous manner, most probably formed by wind action. On the other hand, the middle layer shows high amplitude reflections of heavy mineral-rich massive layers, possibly the result of tsunami activity. The lower massive layer parallel to the ground surface shows a low reflection pattern. The GPR studies showed that the thickness of the heavy mineral layers is greater on the landward foot of the dune as compared to that on the seaward side. According to the grain size analysis, the dune is composed of both wind generated and tsunamigenic sediments. The scanning electron microscope studies revealed that the heavy minerals present in the dunes are mainly sillimanite, ilmenite, garnet, pyroxene, rutile, sphene, biotite, hornblende, zircon, monazite and magnetite. The study demonstrates the origin of sand dunes in different ages along the East Coast of India by the effect of various natural phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] This study has established the usefulness of optical microscopy as well as SEM study for better study of heat-altered coals. [•] Differentiation of microtextures and microstructures and contact metamorphic associations were studied. [•] Anisotropy proved supplementary tool to SEM and enabled study of minerals and baked coal in 3-D view. [•] Through this study, combined maceral–mineral analysis is helpful in coal geological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mycofabricated metal nanoparticles (NPs) plays a significant role in cancer therapeutics and imparts a strategy in medicine. The current investigation focused to synthesize the Copper Oxide Nanoparticles (CuONPs) using an endophytic fungus isolated from Aegle marmelos a medicinal tree located in Western Ghats, India. The endophytic fungus FCBY1 explored the highest antagonistic and antioxidant activities among the 16 pigmented endophytic fungal strains which were isolated from the collected samples. The fungus FCBY1 was identified for its morphological and molecular characteristics where the (Internal Transcribed Spacer) ITS 1, 5.8 ribosomal gene and ITS 2 were sequenced; and the organism FCBY1 is Aspergillus terreus. The endophyte was put through for the synthesis of CuONPs and the size and structure of the synthesized particles were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The confirmation of the CuONPs was characterized by FT-IR, EDAX and XRD analyses. The CuONPs exhibited the maximized antibacterial and antifungal activities against the human clinical pathogens; moreover the particles also explicated the free radicals/ROS scavenging at minimum concentration, which was assessed through DPPH, nitric oxide radical scavenging assays, and reductive power ability. The anti-cancer activity of CuONPs on colon cancer cell lines (HT-29) was evaluated by MTT (IC 50 : 22 μg/mL) and FACS analyses (32.11% cells gated in S phase of cell cycle). Angiogenesis inhibition in tumor cells was estimated through in vivo HET- CAM assessment and the highest concentration 60 μL tested inhibited the blood vessels at the percentage of 31.36% and 81.81%. The CuONPs explicated the anti-cancer activities in a concentration – dependent manner and the results of this investigation manifest the significant role of the CuONPs in cancer therapeutics. • Copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using Aspergillus terreus FCBY1. • Synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR, XRD and SEM. • Nanoparticles displayed antibacterial, antifungal and radical scavenging activities. • Anti-cancer properties of nanoparticles evaluated on HT-29 cell lines. • The inhibition of angiogenesis was assessed via in vivo HET- CAM assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying dissolution of copper during bioleaching of sulfide-bearing granite rock obtained from Malanjkhand copper mines (Hindustan Copper Ltd.), India, using electron microscopy technique is the main thrust of this investigation. The micron scale examination of metal distribution under electron microprobe at different stages of leaching was studied to interpret the chemical phenomena involved in the transformation process. Bioleaching studies were carried out in vertical columns using acidophilic microorganisms operated at ambient temperature. It was observed that leaching efficiency increased with decrease of particle size and lixiviate flow rate. The electron probe documented the morphological evolution of the granite sample before, after, and during column bioleaching. The feed sample constitutes plagioclase feldspar, orthoclase feldspar, and quartz as major phases. During 15 days of bacterial attack, several disseminated grains appear over the surface leading to surface defects or crystallographic heterogeneity. Formation of a homogenous film over the sulfide was observed after 30 days. Due to increase in grain size with a remarkable increase in thickness of product layer, it slips to the bottom of the column thereby creating barrier for microbial attack and preventing further dissolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Plesiophrictus is diagnosed and redescribed based on type material and additional specimens. The type species P. millardi (Pocock 1899) is redescribed. The genus Heterophrictus is revalidated, with H. milleti as type species. Heterophrictus differs from Plesiophrictus by the absence of serrula on maxillae and by having a rastellum on the chelicerae and stiff, spike-shaped setae on the prolateral coxae I. The significance of characters used in the taxonomy of both genera is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The systematic and scientific study of artifacts reflects technological development and civilizations during the past. The importance of pottery artifacts as indicators of the artistic and technological advances reached by the ancient culture is investigatedby a number of techniques. Spectroscopic studies have been performed on recently excavated archaeological pottery samples from Thiruverkadu, Tamilnadu, India. The clay mineral type and its structural deformation due to firing have been studied from their Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The maximum firing temperature attained during baring, firing conditions (open/reduced atmosphere) and iron mineral phase changes is well established. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is used to identify minerals in the potsherds. Further scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies on potsherds pave the way to microstructural analysis and trace the subsequent development of virtification stages, thereby firing temperature is being confirmed. The results obtained from the different techniques provide the information for understanding the technological conditions implemented for the production of pottery and are found to give useful information about the analytical composition of potteries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report a state-of-the-art cathodoluminescence (CL) facility attached to a high-resolution scanning electron microscope (HRSEM), installed recently at the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata for the study of opto-electronic properties of nanostructured materials. In this note, we present the technical details of such a CL-SEM facility along with some experimental results. We also demonstrate that the high spatial resolution spectroscopy and imaging capability of a CL-SEM system can be utilized as an ideal tool for nanophotonic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, researchers have developed new materials to improve the quality of human life. Owing to the frequent occurrence of bone fractures, it is important to develop plate materials for the fixation of fractured bones. These plate materials have to be lightweight, compatible with human tissues and ought to allow stiffness. Natural fibers have the advantage that they are renewable resources and have marketing appeal. The Asian markets have been supplying natural fibers for many years, e.g., sisal, banana and roselle are common reinforcement in India. In this research, the fabrication of plate material from powdered natural fibers like sisal (Agave sisalana), banana (Musa sapientum) and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), with bio-epoxy resin Grade 3554A and Hardner 3554B, using moulding method, is described. The present work deals with the prediction of flexural rigidity of the NFRP composite which is compared with that obtained using the ANSYS solution. They are found to be in good agreement. In this work, microstructure is scanned by the scanning electron microscope. The objective of this research was to utilize the advantages offered by renewable resources for the development of biocomposite materials based on biopolymers and natural fibers. In the future, this plate material externally coated with calcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite (hybrid) composite can be used for inside fixation and also external fixation of fractured bones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the present study, fragmented pottery samples were collected from the recently excavated archaeological site named Salamankuppam near the famous Mahabalipuram in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. An attempt was made to subject the samples to scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM/EDS) and chemical analysis. Also porosimetry study was done. The result from the analysis provided the chemical composition of the potteries, the firing atmosphere and firing temperature achieved by the artisans at the time of manufacture. The results obtained from different analytical techniques provided information of the firing temperature of the pottery which lies in the range of 800°C–950°C in the oxidizing and reducing atmosphere. Mineral magnetic studies also were performed and proved that all samples were highly magnetically enhanced materials and paleointensity measurements by Thellier method yielded the field intensity value of 42.15±2.0μT. The age of the sample was around 150 BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In recent times, science and technology have been applied to the world of cultural heritage, preservation and conservation. In the present study, the pottery samples belonging to 4th century were collected from Tandikkudi in Dindugul district of Tamilnadu, India and were subjected to chemical analysis to outline the information about the raw materials and technological–productive aspect such as firing temperature. Investigations such as Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM/EDS) are also done for the accurate observation of the morphology and the qualitative and Semi-quantitative determination of the chemical elements present in the sample. The firing temperature of the samples at the time of manufacturing is also estimated from apparent porosity of the samples which agrees well with the SEM analysis. The results obtained from different analytical techniques on pottery shreds provide information of the firing temperature of the pottery which lies in the range of 800°C–1000°C in the oxidizing atmosphere. Moreover it was observed that the samples collected from this site are low refractory in nature and the artisans of Tandikkudi have used both calcareous and non-calcareous clays for their household utilities, but were unaware of firing their artifacts at reduced atmosphere or closed kiln. Hence this paper is a useful analytical tool for predicting the firing atmosphere, type of clay (calcareous, non calcareous) and its nature (fine and coarse). Hence this paper is suitable for estimating the firing temperature of ancient potteries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Extreme wave events of 1000 and 1500 years (radiocarbon ages) have been recently reported in Mahabalipuram region, southeast coast of India. Subsequently, we carried out extensive sedimenttological analysis in regions covering a total lateral coverage of 12 km with a new archeological site as the central portion of the study area. Twelve trenches in shore normal profiles exhibit landward thinning sequences as well as upward fining sequences confirming with the global signatures of extreme wave events. The sediment size ranges from fine-to-medium and moderately well sorted-to-well sorted, and exhibit positive skewness with platykurtic-to-leptokurtic nature. We now propose the abrupt winnowing or back and forth motion including unidirectional transport of these deposited sediments, which results in positive skewness. Textural analyses derived from scanning electron microscope studies (SEM) demonstrate the alteration produced, in the ilmenite mineral with vivid presence of pits and crescents with deformation observed on the surface due to extreme wave activities. This is further confirmed with the predominance of high-density mineral such as magnetite (5.2) and other heavy minerals in these deposits inferred the high-intensity of the reworking process of the beach shelf sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the microscopic studies of wear patterns on the edges of tools using incident light microscopes and Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) have proved to be effective methods of determining stone tool function. It states that a pilot study was undertaken to examine the scope and application of use wear studies in an Indian Mesolithic context. It states that the site of Bagor, Rajasthan is one of the largest and best preserved middle Holocene sites in India, which were studied.

The scanning electron microscope (SEM) study of microtextures in quartz grains in India is still in infancy and restricted mostly to the placer or beach sediments. SEM study of micromorphology of quartz grains from Late Pleistocene-Holocene sediments in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, has been taken up for understanding the depositional environment. In the Netal section the quartz grain micromorphological studies indicate basal part of a valley glacier environment or remnant glacial lake, as the quartz grains are angular with high silica deposition besides other imprints of glacial origin. In the Shiror section the sediment appears to be part of the glacial till. The present study provides a new approach to the much needed palaeoenvironmental evaluation of the Himalayan Quaternary sediments on a nanoscale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An attempt has been made in the present work to estimate the firing temperature of the archaeological pottery shreds excavated from the three archaeological sites namely Maligaimedu, Thiruverkadu and Palur in the state of Tamilnadu in INDIA. The lower limit of firing temperature of the Archaeological pottery shreds were estimated by refiring the samples to different temperatures and recording the corresponding FT-IR spectrum. The firing methods and conditions of firing were inferred from the characteristic absorption positions and the bands observed due to the presence of magnetite and hematite in the samples. In addition, the Scanning Electron Microscopic analysis were carried out to study the internal morphology, vitrification factor and the upper limit of the firing temperature of the potteries fired at the time of manufacture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

During an inter-tidal zone exploration in the Gulf of Khambhat region, a large number of glazed and nonglazed sherds were recovered along with stone anchors dating back to the late medieval period. Four representative specimens were analysed for elemental oxides using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrum. The results indicate that silicon oxide content of the glazed sherds varies between ∼73 and 77%, forming three-fourths of the total composition, while it ranges from 42 to 47.5% in non-glazed sherds. Its content is more than half that in the ordinary sherds. It is difficult to understand the origin of these sherds on the basis of chemical analysis, as this study focuses only on the Gogha area. Therefore, similar studies from different regions in the Gulf of Khambhat will help to understand the origin and divergence in the manufacturing techniques used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The transformation between the metallic (β) and semiconducting (α) allotropes of tin is still not well understood. The phase transition temperature stated in the literature, 286.2 K, seems to be inconsistent with recent calorimetric measurements. In this paper, this intriguing aspect has been explored in Sn and Sn-Cu (alloyed 0.5% Cu by weight) using temperature resolved synchrotron x-ray diffraction measurements performed at the Indus-2 facility. Additionally, the α ⇌ β Sn transition has been recorded using in-situ heating/cooling experiments in a scanning electron microscope. Based on these measurements, a protocol has been suggested to reduce the formation of α -Sn in potentially susceptible systems. This will be useful in experiments like TIN.TIN (The INdia-based TIN detector), which proposes to employ ∼ 100 - 1000 kg of superconducting tin-based detectors to search for neutrinoless double beta decay in the isotope 124 Sn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]