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Extracting gas from unconventional shale reservoirs with low permeability is challenging. To overcome this, hydraulic fracturing (HF) is employed. Despite enhancing shale gas production, HF has drawbacks like groundwater pollution and induced earthquakes. Such issues highlight the need for ongoing exploration of novel shale gas extraction methods such as in situ heating through combustion or pyrolysis to mitigate operational and environmental concerns. In this study, thermally immature shales of contrasting organic richness from Rajmahal Basin of India were heated to different temperatures (pyrolysis at 350, 500 and 650 °C) to assess the temperature protocols necessary for hydrocarbon liberation and investigate the evolution of pore structural facets with implications for CO2 sequestration in underground thermally treated shale horizons. Our results from low-pressure N2 adsorption reveal reduced adsorption capacity in the shale splits treated at 350 and 500 ºC, which can be attributed to structural reworking of the organic matter within the samples leading to formation of complex pore structures that limits the access of nitrogen at low experimental temperatures. Consequently, for both the studied samples BET SSA decreased by ∼58% and 72% at 350 °C, and ∼67% and 68% at 500 °C, whereas average pore diameter increased by ∼45% and 91% at 350 °C, and ∼100% and 94% at 500 °C compared to their untreated counterparts. CO2 adsorption results, unlike N2, revealed a pronounced rise in micropore properties (surface area and volume) at 500 and 650 ºC (∼30%–35% and ∼41%–63%, respectively for both samples), contradicting the N2 adsorption outcomes. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images complemented the findings, showing pore structures evolving from microcracks to collapsed pores with increasing thermal treatment. Analysis of the SEM images of both samples revealed a notable increase in average pore width (short axis): by ∼4 and 10 times at 350 °C, ∼5 and 12 times at 500 °C, and ∼10 and 28 times at 650 °C compared to the untreated samples. Rock-Eval analysis demonstrated the liberation of almost all pyrolyzable kerogen components in the shales heated to 650 °C. Additionally, the maximum micropore capacity, identified from CO2 gas adsorption analysis, indicated 650 °C as the ideal temperature for in situ conversion and CO2 sequestration. Nevertheless, project viability hinges on assessing other relevant aspects of shale gas development such as geomechanical stability and supercritical CO2 interactions in addition to thermal treatment. Highlights: Insitu thermal treatment of shales for liberation of hydrocarbons and CO2 sequestration. Significant changes in shale geochemistry and pore properties with increasing temperatures of treatment. Visualizing thermally induced pore evolution in shale: microcracks to collapsed pores. Limitations of N2 in accessing complex pore structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concern about indoor air quality in various micro-environments has been on the rise as buildings are vulnerable to an array of contaminants generated from various sources. The study aims to investigate and highlight the pollutant sources and composition in middle-income residential spaces through a case study approach. With large migration from small towns and saturation of megacities, the middle-income population in tier-2 cities in India is on the rise, raising concern about the well-being of the dense urban population. It involves a careful selection of typical MIG housing to identify major pollution sources from outdoor and indoor environments. The focus lies in the findings stemming from continuous air quality monitoring of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NO2, HCHO, TVOC, CO and C6H6 and an in-depth physio-chemical analysis facilitated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Analytical Scanning Electron Microscope (A-SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy of settled household dust. Analysis unveiled indoor PM2.5 concentrations of 21.93 µg/m3, exceeding WHO standards, whereas, TVOC concentrations were higher indoors than outdoors. Stark disparities between indoor and outdoor dust compositions and sources were also observed. Despite limitations, it provides a portrait of middle-income housing conditions, offering insights for interventions and future research on indoor air quality challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic has emerged as a global threat owing to its chronic ubiquity and persistence. Microplastics' small size expedites their ingestion at each trophic level causing biomagnification and bioaccumulation, which has raised public concerns. The present study isolated, quantified and characterized the abundance, shape, size, color, and chemical composition of the microplastics from water and sediments of the Hirakud Reservoir through a scanning electron microscope and FTIR. The ecological risk associated with the microplastics was assessed using the species sensitivity distribution (SSD) method to derive the Predicted No-Effect Concentration (PNEC) value and risk quotient (RQ). The abundance of microplastics in the surface water and sediments of the Hirakud Reservoir was estimated at 82-89 particles/L and 159-163 particles/kg, respectively. Fiber-shaped microplastics dominated both surface water (46.21%) and sediment samples (44.86%). Small-sized microplastics (53-300 μm) prevailed in all samples. Color delineation exhibited an abundance of transparent microplastics. Chemical characterization indicated the dominance of polypropylene (38%), followed by high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, and polystyrene. The calculated PNEC value was 3,954 particles/m³, and the RQ was estimated to be 0.02073-0.04122 indicating negligible ecological risk to freshwater species in all the sampling sites. [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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Microplastic (MP) is a contaminant presently causing a significant environmental risk. The present study aims to extract, measure, and classify MP in sediment samples from two seasons (monsoon and summer) in Noyyal River, South India. Microplastic was separated from sediments using the Sediment Microplastic Isolation technique. Microplastics were detected in four forms: foams, films, fragments, and fibres. Dominant polymer types during monsoon are Polystyrene (29%), Polycarbonate (13%), Nylon (13%), and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (13%). Throughout summer, Polystyrene (17%) was the prevalent polymer type, followed by Nylon (14%), Polycarbonate (11%), and Polyvinyl Chloride (9%). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) demonstrated that MPs exhibit diverse surface morphologies, including foamy, fibrous, and granular nature. It also shows tearing and fracturing of MPs and aging, indicating substantial summer degradation. Using Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) and Pollution Load Index (PLI), MP vulnerability in sediments indicates that despite lesser PLI, the MPs pose an extreme danger threat to the environment during the summer season compared to the monsoon. The study thus provides insight into the seasonal variation of MPs and their threat in Noyyal River sediments, which will aid in formulating guidelines for the minimization of MPs in river systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kolialota (Paederia cruddasiana Prain), a vine belonging of the family Rubiaceae often used by traditional healers in Assam, India for treating bone fractures with sound results. However, there is no systematic research on the phytochemicals as well as on anabolic actions in bone healing. The study was taken up to analyze the phytochemicals and their biochemical activities present in the leaves of Kolialota. Results clearly refer to the terpenoids and flavonoids, which were found to be abundantly present in the leaves giving significant antioxidant properties. Among the tested extracts, methanolic extract was found to contain higher amounts of total phenols, flavonoids and antioxidants. In addition, the leaf extract was found to contain the high amount of calcium (3993 µg/L ) conformed by scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive analysis. Further, gas chromatography and mass spectroscopic studies also confirmed the presence of certain phytochemicals such as lidocaine and 4 dehydroxy-n-tyramine that are associated with bone anabolic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy generation from coal poses an environmental drawback due to the abundance of some potential hazardous elements (PHEs). A few PHEs (As, Sb, Cu, Mn and Zn) are noticed in the coal collected from thermal power plants of India. Among them, As and Sb are depleted while Cu, Mn and Zn are enriched in fly and bottom ash. The short- and long-term exposure of these PHEs into the ecosystem by emission, deposition and leaching causes environmental contamination as well as pollution and health hazards. The water-leaching experiment shows that these elements have feeble mobilisation tendency and low risk. The bioavailability test reflects that bio-uptake of these PHEs into the human system may be the origin of several diseases. Proper storage and recycling of the large amount of fly and bottom ash are a serious concern of thermal power plants. Chemical characterisation of ash, including elemental mapping by scanning electron microscope, calculated enrichment ratio (ER) and relative enrichment index (REI) values, as well as lab-scale water-leaching experiments predict that combustion residues of the studied power generating unit are safe for utilisation in construction, geotechnical and even in agricultural sectors. Chemical characterisation and pre-treatment of ashes before utilisation are urgently required to prevent any possible contamination. Regular scrutiny of emission control device, proper management of ash disposal and frequent utilisation are the keys for clean energy generation. A deep chemical and physical analysis of coal from power plants prior to utilisation is the primary task for sustainable energy generation from environmental aspect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-cementation of natural sand is a prospective solution to improve their engineering properties. The enhancement of strength and low-strain shear modulus is considered to be of high engineering significance for improvement in the performance of sand under both static and dynamic loading. In the present study, bio-cementation effects of bacillus Sporosarcina pasteurii bacteria on standard Ennore sand of India are studied at the microstructure level through scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigation considering microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) technique. The crystallographic structure of the bio-cemented sand is reported through X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. Stress–strain behaviour and improvement in the strength of bio-cemented sand with different pore volumes of cementation solution have been investigated through unconfined compression strength (UCS) testing. Finally, the shear wave velocity values of the bio-cemented sand are assessed through bender element testing for different confining pressures, and low-strain shear modulus values have arrived. The study is believed to be helpful in the quantification of improvement of strength and low-strain shear modulus values of bio-cemented sand. [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]

Failure of manmade embankments at the islands of Sundarban estuaries, India recur almost annually and results in the submergence of fertile agricultural land and claim human lives. Field studies were carried out to investigate the primary index properties of the embankment soil collected from three locations at the concave bends of embankment in the Sundarbans area. A correlation is drawn between alteration of natural layout of embankment soil and modification of its index properties following the traditional construction of embankment. Close introspection of embankment soil under scanning electron microscope were carried out to understand the spatial variations of the susceptibility of soil grains towards erosion for different layers of the embankment sediments. The flow velocities at permissible closest vicinity to river facing embankment wall were much higher than estimated threshold velocities for the entrainment of soil grains and resulted in the formation of undercuts at the basal part of the embankments that triggered its breaching. Finally, from the analyses of obtained results, some preventive measures are recommended to retard the rate of embankment breaching processes which may be expected to provide more sustainability to the erected embankments and will reduce the chances of frequent disasters at the Indian Sundarbans. [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]

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]

The morphology and distribution of the trichomes on the aerial parts and the feature of moniliform hairs in the stamen of Pogostemon Desf. of Assam, India were studied to understand the significance of these characters for taxonomic purposes. The three species studied are Pogostemon brachystachyus Benth., Pogostemon quadrifolius (Benth.) F. Muell, and Pogostemon strigosus (Benth.) These species of Pogostemon Desf. were mostly terrestrial while few species growing in marshy areas also. The trichomes on leaves and the moniliform hairs or beaded stamen of all the three species were investigated by both Light microscope and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The stamen with hairs was considered a unique feature that makes it a distinct genus in the family Lamiaceae, and also helps in the identification. The main types of trichomes that were distinctively observed on the leaf surfaces are, simple non-glandular unicellular and multicellular trichomes and peltate, glandular trichomes. Moniliform hairs and trichome morphology of Pogostemon brachystachyus, Pogostemon quadrifolius, and Pogostemon strigosus have not been studied previously in the study area and such investigations on Pogostemon in the study area are rather limited. [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]

Study undertaken to find the structural arrangement of scales in similar coloured regions within butterfly wings of different species revealed their scale structure was architecturally different. The scales under scanning electron microscope showed difference among butterflies. Scales of Papilio polymnestor (Cramer) had high concentration of windows, Pareronica ceylanica (Felder) with beads and other species such as Talicada nyseus (Guerin Meneville), Atraphaneura aristolochiae (Fabricius), Junonia heirta (Fabricius), Neptis hordonia (Moore), Acrae violae (Fabricius) and Danus chrysippus (Linnaeus) had network and lamina. Tonality of colours showed differences in the arrangement of scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dried sandstone slurry (DSS) is generated during mining and processing of stone and is accounted as man-made hazardous waste material, contaminating the environment in nearby areas. The use of DSS in self-compacting concrete (SCC) was studied by partially substituting pozzolana Portland cement at different percentages. This represents the recycling element of the 3 R's of the environment (reduce, reuse and recycle). Mechanical and permeability properties were evaluated and the microstructure of SCC analysed with respect to a control mixture which is without sandstone slurry. Mechanical and permeability parameters were found to relate each other. With increased replacement of DSS, the porosity and hence the sorptivity coefficient of SCC also increased and its compressive strength decreased. The higher porosity caused a significant increment in the depth of carbonation. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed decreased calcium-silicate-hydrate (C–S–H) gel formation as the replacement percentage of DSS increased. This, along with the increased porosity and permeability, degraded the mechanical properties of SCC. The rapidly developing construction sector in India must meet the following indispensable criteria: low environmental impact at improved structural performance, economy and speed of construction. Utilization of sandstone waste is highly recommended from the above viewpoint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic pollution research is conducted at a rapid rate throughout the world. However, microplastics (MPs) research in the freshwater ecosystem especially riverine ecosystem is lacking in India. This study is the pioneer to explore the occurrence of MPs in an Indian river. For the present investigation a stretch of river Alaknanda which is a major stream of river Ganga was selected. This stretch was divided into five sampling sites from which five water samples and four sediment samples were collected. The samples were filtered, oxidized, density separated and finally studied under compound microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope. Further, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectrum was also conducted to analyze the elemental status of the samples. The result of this research study recorded a total of 955 MPs. Among which 566 particles of the MPs were in water samples while 389 particles were found in sediment samples. In this study threads/fibers were the dominating type, i.e., 412 particles and particle size less than 1 mm was the most abundant type of MPs. Presence of such fine size of plastic particles increases the effect of exposure and interaction of particles with aquatic organisms and possesses a bigger threat for aquatic life. Metals like sodium, potassium, aluminum, calcium, titanium and magnesium were found attached with the MPs, indicating the potential risks to the living organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal dynamics can rapidly alter beach morphology. In some places, such as the non-barred southern west coast of India, studying changes to beach morphology is a relatively arduous task. Persistent Scatterer Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (PSInSAR), a remote sensing technique that utilizes stacks of radar images for accurate long-term monitoring of ground features, allows for detailed observations of coastal morphodynamics. Twenty-two single look complex (SLC) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) Sentinel-1A images, acquired from 4 March 2016 to 3 June 2017, are used to monitor geomorphological processes such as coastal erosion and deposition. Ground deformation measurements from PSInSAR processing shows the coast stretching ~ 70 km between Thaickal and Munambam is highly dynamic, characterized by phases of erosion and deposition. The highest negative displacement of − 24.9 mm at Thaickal versus the + 7.6 mm at Chellanam in the north show the co-existing milieus of erosion and deposition. PSInSAR results concur with corresponding Google Earth images. In addition, beach sediment texture and scanning electron microscope grain micro-texture in the beach segment further corroborate temporal phases of erosion and deposition. Two locations are identified as typical erosional sites, while one location typified deposition. Erosion and deposition or rebuilding of beaches, usually correspond respectively with the onset and offset of SW monsoon wave climate in the Arabian Sea. When zones of deposition are mainly located in the proximity of river and/or lake inlets, stretches characterized by erosion are distal to inlets. Linear regression analyses of displacement–time series plots were used to identify general erosion or depositional regimes along beach segments. Results from this study illustrate how PSInSAR is a capable and reliable processing tool for monitoring temporal phases of coastal morpho-dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is the dominant cereal crop of North India. It is regularly affected by grain discoloration and chaffiness of panicles during maturity of the crop. Lack of effective management practices for this problem has been a major concern among farmers in the region. Farmers give many sprays of fungicides due to the already reported association of fungal pathogens but fail to achieve the required control of this malady. It is necessary to know the correct etiology of this disease to successfully devise management options against this disease. We report the existence of Pseudomonas oryzihabitans associated with grain discoloration, panicle blight, and chaffiness of rice from the Punjab region of North India for the first time. During Kharif 2021, panicle blight symptoms (disease incidence 20–25%, cultivar PR 114) were observed in rice fields of three districts. These blighted panicles were partially filled or grains were aborted causing chaffiness in many panicles. Yellow-colored smooth, circular colonies of bacteria were obtained from the diseased panicles. The associated bacterium was identified as a rod-shaped, gram-negative P. oryzihabitans based on biochemical characterization, Scanning Electron Microscope imaging, and sequencing of the 16S rDNA region along with housekeeping genes rpoD and gyrB. The pathogenicity of the bacterium was tested in the fields during Kharif 2021 and Kharif 2022.The study demonstrated that the bacterial pathogen, P. oryzihabitans should be considered as one of the cause of grain discoloration and chaffiness of rice in Punjab region of India and management options for bacterial grain discoloration, panicle blight and chaffiness should be worked out for effective management of this disease. • Rice is affected by grain discoloration and chaffiness of panicles during maturity of the crop. • Lack of effective management practices is a major concern among farmers. • Knowledge of correct etiology of this disease is the prerequisite to devise management options for this disease. • Pseudomonas oryzihabitans was found associated with grain discoloration, panicle blight, and chaffiness of rice from the Punjab region of North India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of pore accessibility and complexity on gas storage, transport, and recovery potential in the little-studied thermally mature Raghampuram shale samples collected from 2930 to 2987 m depth of Krishna–Godavari basin, India. Our findings reveal that sample nature (powdered, chipped, or cores) and assessment methods significantly influence pore accessibility evaluation, highlighting a research gap in the interpretation of irregularity, complexity, and heterogeneity of shale pore structure using unreliable monofractal theories. Employing a multiscale methodology involving low-pressure N2 and CO2 sorption, synchrotron small-angle scattering, and He-pycnometry techniques, we estimated accessibility in powder and core samples. Powder samples displayed a pore accessibility range of 36.07–106.94%, which was a substantial increase (154.54–423.07%) compared to that of solid core samples (1.61–4.16%). Total organic carbon was found to influence closed pore formation, while clay, carbonate, and quartz + K-feldspar contributed to open pores. Multifractal analyses comparing pore heterogeneity and complexity between accessible and inaccessible pores demonstrated higher heterogeneity and complexity in the latter, with accessible pores exhibiting simpler characteristics. Pore size distributions of both accessible and total pores (includes both accessible and inaccessible pores) exhibited multifractal behavior. Our findings emphasize the significance of evaluating pore accessibility and heterogeneity in shale-gas analysis, providing fresh insights into the interlinked elements of pore structure, composition, and gas recovery potential, thus advancing reservoir characterization understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This communication deals with seasonal variation of protozoans of edible ornamental fishes of West Bengal, India. During this survey, 1566 edible ornamental fishes were collected from different fish farms, ponds, and nearby markets of several district of West Bengal namely, Nadia, South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, Birbhum, Purba Barddhaman, and Paschim Barddhaman from November 2019 to December 2022. Three ciliate ectoparasites belonging to the genera Trichodina, Trichodinella, and Tripartiella and three myxozoan parasites belonging to the genera Myxobolus, Thelohanellus, and Kudoa have been identified from edible ornamental fish, namely, Anabas testudineus, Bloch, 1792. Our study shows ciliate parasites have a higher rate of infection than myxozoan parasites. The highest prevalence of ectoparasitic infection has been reported during the post-monsoon season, i.e., from November to February, followed by monsoon season while lowest prevalence has been observed during pre-monsoon season, i.e., March to June, implying that environmental variables play a role in the spread of infections. The identification of these ciliates and myxozoans parasites was done by a widely used staining technique, along with an ultrastructural study of the myxozoan parasites using scanning electron microscopy. The current work also reveals the histopathological alterations in the gill and fin of Anabas testudineus, after infection with myxozoan parasites along with an ultrastructural study using scanning electron microscopy, which has not been previously studied. Therefore, this investigation also allows some insight into the previously unrecorded tissue-level alteration of infected host organs due to parasitic infestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether tectonic strain from the early stage India‐Asia collision has synchronously affected the far‐field margin of the Tibetan Plateau is crucial for understanding plateau deformation and growth processes. However, direct evidence for early far‐field deformation remains scarce. Utilizing illite K‐Ar dating of three fault gouge samples, we established the faulting history of the Leibo fault zone (LFZ) at the southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau (SEMTP). Consistent authigenic illite ages of 52 ± 2, 54 ± 12 and 55 ± 6 Ma suggest the reactivated thrust faulting of the LFZ in the Early Cenozoic. Positioned ∼700 km east of the collisional boundary and at the intersection of three blocks with distinct lithospheric rheology in strength/viscosity, this event suggests a quasi‐synchronous far‐field tectonic response in the SEMTP to the India‐Asia collision. Plain Language Summary: Understanding how tectonic strain resulting from the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates in the Early Cenozoic can spread to the edges of the Tibetan Plateau is crucial for comprehending the plateau's tectonic development. To investigate this question, we used fault gouge, which resulted from the sliding of brittle faults, to directly reveal faulting information. By conducting illite K‐Ar dating on three samples from the Leibo fault zone (LFZ) at the southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau (SEMTP), we found consistent ages of newly formed illite, 52 ± 2, 54 ± 12, and 55 ± 6 million years ago. Since this type of minerals form simultaneously with faulting, these ages reveal a reactivated thrust faulting event of the LFZ, suggesting a nearly simultaneous response of faulting in the SEMTP to the early stage of the India‐Asia collision. Key Points: Fault gouge illite K‐Ar dating is used to establish the faulting history of the Leibo fault zone, SE margin of the Tibetan PlateauThree consistent authigenic illite ages of ∼55, ∼54, and ∼52 Ma suggest a reactivated thrust faulting event of the Leibo fault zoneThis event indicates a quasi‐synchronous far‐field response of the SE margin of the Tibetan Plateau to the India‐Asia collision [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caenis limai sp. n. is described from the Veerapandi River in Theni, South India based on the larva, adult, and egg stages. The total number of Caenis species in India thereby is being augmented to eleven. The most closely related species to Caenis limai sp. n. is Caenis ulmeriana Malzacher, 2015 and the comparisons between both species are discussed herewith. The most important male subimaginal characters of Caenis americani Srinivasan et al., 2021 is described for the first time. [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]

In the Bhagirathi River Transect of the Garhwal Himalaya, India, the existence of the Jhala Normal Fault (JNF) and its movement sense are disputed. The JNF has been considered either as part of the South Tibetan Detachment System (STDS) or as a distinct, more southerly discontinuity within the Higher Himalayan Crystalline Sequence (HHCS). Field studies reveal that the JNF lies entirely within the HHCS, with both the JNF footwall and hanging-wall preserving thrust-related shear markers within amphibolite facies HHCS rocks. Rare extensional shear markers are, however, observed at the base of the JNF hanging-wall. New U–Pb zircon rim and monazite SHRIMP ages of 33.8 ± 0.8 Ma and 30.7 ± 0.5 Ma obtained in this study represent the timing of metamorphism in the JNF hanging-wall and footwall, respectively. Together, the field and geochronological evidence suggest that during Eocene–Oligocene channel flow in the HHCS, the slow-moving marginal part of the channel representing the JNF hanging-wall was trailing its more rapidly extruding footwall, resulting in apparent normal-sense movement across the JNF. The intrusion of 21.4 ± 2.3 Ma (monazite U–Pb age) tourmaline-bearing leucogranites within the JNF hanging-wall testifies to its ongoing uplift as part of the exhuming Miocene HHCS channel. The absence of any metamorphic break or distinct extensional shear zone at the JNF indicates that it originated as an intra-channel discontinuity rather than a major lithotectonic boundary. Highlights: The normal/reverse sense of movement at Jhala Normal Fault (JNF) is controversial Melt proportion and shear intensity sharply decrease in JNF hanging-wall No extensional shear zone or break in metamorphic grade observed at JNF Pulsed channel in footwall causes apparent normal movement along JNF Normal movements along JNF and STDS are coeval with ~21 Ma leucogranite intrusion [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycomponent condensate glasses found in nature provide an insight into condensation mechanisms, which are still understood inadequately poorly. Condensate glasses found in the impactites of the Lonar crater contain nanosized inclusions of metallic Fe, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ag, In, Te, Au, Pt, and Bi, along with Fe, Cu, and Zn sulfides. This combination may be indicative either of a brief condensation window for the almost simultaneous condensation of components with so different fugacity or of a possible mechanism of cluster condensation, provided that the condensation temperatures of such clusters are close. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gahnite occurs in diverse rock types and metamorphosed mineral deposits. The gahnite geochemistry is being used as an exploration tool for zinc sulfide deposits. In the present study, the geochemistry of gahnite and associated minerals viz. sphalerite, garnet, sillimanite, staurolite, anthophyllite, biotite, ilmenite, and chlorite, and their petrography have been used in studying the genesis, metamorphic evolution, deposit characterization, and exploration significance of seven Palaeoproterozoic volcanogenic massive sulfides (VMS) deposits in the Betul belt in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone, India. Different textural types of gahnites are recognized in the Betul belt. Field investigations of textural and geochemical characteristics suggest that the gahnites were formed by multiple geological processes: desulfidation of sphalerite, breakdown of almandine garnet, and zincian staurolite, and chloritization of zincian biotite corresponding with regional metamorphism. The temperature conditions of gahnite formation are estimated to be ~600–650°C using empirical Ti in biotite thermometry. The elemental concentrations in gahnites vary from Zn/Fe ratio 2–4; Co 1–30 ppm; Ga 14–573 ppm and Mn 126–3422 ppm, indicating that bimodal volcanics and volcano‐sedimentary rocks as protolith. High Mn content in gahnite suggests an influx of magmatic‐hydrothermal fluid in the protolith. Variations of trace elements (Mg vs. Al/V, Ti vs. Co/Mn, Co vs. V/Ga, Mn vs. Zn/Fe) and high‐temperature of gahnite formation attest to sensu stricto VMS type mineralization in Betul belt, which is entirely different from SEDEX, Broken Hill‐type, and non‐sulfide deposits. Principal component analysis of trace elements shows the geochemical variations at a few deposits and reveals that gahnites were formed as a result of the competing effect of fS2‐fO2 and governed by bulk rock composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pb–Zn mineralization at Rajpura‐Dariba and Zawarmala, India, is hosted in the Palaeoproterozoic meta‐volcano‐sedimentary sequence of Aravalli‐Delhi Belt. We have studied different generations of pyrite (Py‐I, II and III) and sphalerite (Sph‐I, II and III), associated with ore mineralization and remobilization stages, from both the deposits. In Rajpura‐Dariba, high concentrations of the majority of trace elements in syngenetic Py‐I and Sph‐I suggest their formation from trace element enriched hydrothermal fluid in SEDEX environment. Enrichment of lattice bound elements in Py‐II (As, Co, Ni) and Sph‐II (Mn, Hg and Cd) during metamorphic recrystallization of early pyrite and sphalerite indicates their local derivation from host rocks. The Pb, Tl, Ag and Sb rich Py‐III and Sph‐III in discordant ore indicate their crystallization from low melting‐point chalcophile elements enriched sulfide melt. In Zawarmala, the trace element poor natures of diagenetic banded Py‐I and Sph‐I suggest that the initial ore‐forming fluid was depleted in trace elements. Enrichment of trace elements in Py‐II (As, Mn, Tl, Cu) and Sph‐II (Mn, Hg, As, Ga) in sphalerite‐pyrite vein ore signify their derivation from carbonate host rocks. The high abundance of trace elements in Py‐III and Sph‐III indicates their precipitation at lower temperatures from a trace element enriched hydrothermal fluid during the massive galena‐sphalerite ore formation. Pyrite and sphalerite from global SEDEX are trace elements enriched as compared to MVT deposits, where their compositions have remarkably correlation with host rocks. Our study highlights the influence of host rock in pyrite and sphalerite compositions and their ore genetic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine fungi are a rich source of biologically active molecules, but a poorly explored bioresource for cosmeceutical products. This study evaluates the phytochemistry, antioxidant, and antityrosinase effects of the organic extracts of marine fungi isolated from various marine environments in India. Out of 35 screened fungal strains, methanol extracts of strains P2, Talaromyces stipitatus, and D4, Aspergillus terreus exhibited antityrosinase activity of 45% and 43%, respectively, at the lowest concentration of 0.5 mg/mL. The highest free radicals scavenging activity of 94% and 97% was observed at 500 mg/mL, respectively, of the same fungal extracts. The total phenolic content ranged from 8.20 to 20.30 mg/g of the dry weight of extract, expressed as gallic acid equivalent. GC–MS analysis of T. stipitatus and A. terreus extract identified seven and 10 major compounds, respectively. Some of the major compounds included azetidine, (3E)‐3‐[(3,5‐dimethoxybenzoyl)hydrazono]‐N‐isobutyl butanamide, aziridine, and 3‐methylcyclopentanone, 1,1‐dimethylcyclohexane, cyclopentane carboxylic acid, N‐allyl‐4,5,6,7‐tetrahydro‐2‐benzothiophene‐1‐carboxamide, cyclo(l‐Pro‐l‐Val), and 3‐phenylpropionitrile. In conclusion, this study showed abundant fungal resources in Indian marine environments. A correlation between total phenolic contents of the extracts confirmed that phenolic compounds play an important role in antioxidant as well as antityrosinase activity of the marine fungal extracts and can be viewed as new potential antityrosinase and antioxidant resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horse gram is one of the lesser-known beans widely grown in India. One hundred and twenty-three homozygous horse gram mutants were screened for powdery mildew (PM) disease resistance using the grade 0 to 4. The mutants were grouped based on the disease level of 0 to 2 (resistant) and susceptible (3 to 4). The PM altered the chlorophyll fluorescence (a/b ratio), maturity duration, and yield attributing traits. The yield loss ranged from 4.55% to 72.66%. After affirming the resistance level, the resistant mutant (RM) with minimum yield loss (scale:0) and the susceptible mutant (SM) with maximum loss (scale:4) were used for metabolomic analysis through GC-MS. PM infection induced expression of 66 metabolites representing 32 functional classes. The number of unique classes in RM and SM was 13 and 11, respectively, while eight were common. A fold change in the common metabolites indicated an enhanced accumulation of amine, alcohol, and ester in RM. Along with pathogen-induced defensive metabolites, RM produced silane and fluorene, whose biological significance in disease resistance is unknown. Though SM expressed defence-related bio-molecules, it failed to yield better. [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 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]