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It is imperative to evaluate the training courses for which various procedures are practiced. Training courses were largely conducted with a set of objectives determined through Training Need Analysis (TNA). Evaluation of training (EoT) courses is carried out to elucidate the achievement of training objectives and benefit of training to trainee’s organization. The paper proposes a holistic evaluation methodology to assess the efficacy of training courses. Apart from discussing the concepts and principles of the suggested EoT method a model is put forth for its effective implementation. Data generation, processing procedures, and applicability in assessing the training functions at different levels are elaborated. The study suggests applying various formative and summative assessment tools to ensure the full achievement of the training objectives. These include pre and post-training tests, intermittent tests and independent handson tests in the simulated work environment to facilitate the transfer of learning. A numerical Trainee’s feedback pattern is suggested for impartial evaluation of the entire training activity. An assessment package designed in MS Excel is proposed for accurate and impartial assessment.

The impact of uncontrolled municipal solid waste disposal of 3800 tons per day on surface and groundwater downstream of the Jawaharnagar dumping site was studied. The un-engineered solid waste dumping yard site spreading over about 300 hectares (ha) is located on topographic high (hillock) and falls in Madyala stream and Dammaiguda watersheds of Musi sub-basin. Granites of the Archaean age underlie the area. Both surface and groundwater samples, collected covering hydrological cycles of 2011and 2012, were analyzed for major chemical constituents. Fifteen samples belonging to both seasons of 2012 were tested for BOD, COD, and TOC. The mean values of some tested chemical constituents of surface water samples (15) were - EC 13066 m S/cm, TH 753, Na+ 813, K+ 530, HCO3- 978, Cl- 1304, and NO3- 262 (all in mg/l), which prove that tanks and stream near the dump yard were pools of leachate. The average values of contaminated groundwater samples among the four sampled sessions (17) indicate EC was above 5000 m S/cm, TH 1624, Cl- 1502, and SO42- 284(all in mg/l), which were found much above the threshold values. Very high TOC (mean SW 241; GW 154 mg/l), BOD (5410; 117), and COD (6427; 176) content in both surface (SW) and groundwater (GW) samples indicate the presence of organic pollutants sourced from domestic waste dumps. Wide temporal and spatial variability in the concentration of many ion species could be due to rainfall deviation, point source changes, and heterogeneous fracture patterns. Low resistivity values (5 to 25 ohm.m) at a distance of 4 km from the dumping site and high infiltration rate (29 cm/hr) at the Madyala stream indicate hydrological features controlled the mass flux. The chloride-sulphate alkaline-earth water facies, K+:Mg2+ and BOD/COD ratios demonstrate apart from anthropogenic input water-rock interaction and evapotranspiration governed the evolution of water chemistry. The study supports the hypothesis that solid waste dumps, which attained the methanogenic phase, were a point source of pollution that generates leachate and dissipates contaminants to the aquatic environment through preferred pathways influenced by factors like soils, topography, aquifer hydraulics, and contaminant kinetics.

Groundwater is exploited un-relentlessly worldwide, leading to severe resource shortages, reflected through a sharp decline in water levels and deterioration of water quality. Groundwater, a dynamic and renewable resource, needs continuous monitoring for its effective utilization and to meet the ever-increasing demand for water. Many non-government and government agencies have measured groundwater levels and their chemical quality over the past five decades. However, a cursory scan of the data, reports, and publications reveals that many countries still follow primitive practices of groundwater monitoring. Scant research publications and little R&D efforts are noticed in this domain. Lack of modernization in monitoring mechanism led to a paucity of real-time and accurate data. There is an urgent need to draw the attention of monitoring agencies toward updating monitoring strategies using the latest technology. System analysis is required for process standardization and the design of protocols to revitalize groundwater regime surveillance. Efforts are made to identify the areas of weakness which need immediate attention and explore the possibilities of engaging new techniques by adopting an out-of-box approach in collecting, analyzing, and disseminating the information on quantitative and qualitative indicators of groundwater to the end users in actionable form.

Application of Water Quality Index (WQI) to assess the water quality for drinking water suitability and intensity of contamination is in practice worldwide. Many WQI methods have been in use since their conceptualization, and some are country-specific or use-specific. A generalized and widely acceptable method that can project ground truths in non-dimensional numerical form to evaluate the water quality, especially for drinking uses, is lacking. Complexity and disagreement among different methods are adding to incongruence among the scientists. The concept and a simple calculation method of WQI are deliberated. Five different WQI methods using water chemistry results of Vizianagarm District are discussed. The WQI output obtained from these methods displays discrepancies in the proper projection of water quality. Some samples show similarities in WQI values obtained from two to four methods. However, the suitability status of water for drinking purposes could not be precisely ascertained from these indices. Since the water chemistry results and WQI values are incompatible, the output from these methods could be red herring. Few issues are identified among the studied methods which need improvisation. The use of ideal value in the weighted arithmetic index method and arbitration in assigning Weight for each parameter gives scope for speculation. Non-uniformity in the categorization of water and the suitability statuses of drinking water are discouraging factors. The WQI is an effective tool in screening the vast database for identifying and addressing the issues in water quality. Since drinking water standards and water supply are government-sponsored, an institutional intervention is required to standardize the WQI computation procedure. Such an initiative is necessary for the practical application of water quality data to contain water-borne diseases.

Past decade has seen the advent of several prognosticators for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Although TNM staging is still considered as the prognostic gold standard, it is not possible to obtain all the necessary information for a pathological TNM staging until excisional biopsy. Thus, it is necessary to identify features from the initial biopsy, which could aid in early prognostication. Aim To compare neutrophil elastase immuno-expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma patients with and without lymph node metastasis. Materials and Methods Archival specimens of 50 oral squamous cell carcinoma consisting of 25 cases with and 25 cases without lymph node metastasis were immuno-stained for neutrophil elastase. Results Statistically, a significant difference was noted in the neutrophil elastase staining between the 2 groups. 18 of the 25-oral squamous cell carcinoma cases with lymph node metastasis were positive and only 5 of the 25-oral squamous cell carcinoma cases without nodal involvement were positive. Conclusion Presence of neutrophil elastase in the lesional tissue is strongly associated with a lymph node involvement, and thus could serve as a prognostic factor for oral squamous cell carcinoma.

The Hyderabad urban solid waste dump site though located on a rocky hillock has highly weathered mantle apart from inter-connected network of fractures. These hydrological features favored massive dissipation of contaminants into the surface as well as sub-surface water resources. The surface water bodies in the vicinity turned into leachate pools and groundwater in the zone of influence is not fit for any use. It is assumed that apart from hydrological factors hydrogeochemical characteristics also contributed to contamination of pore water. Efforts were made through the Paper to underline the preferential chemistry of water resources at solid waste disposal sites that stimulated the ion enrichment. Both surface (15) and groundwater (79) samples were gathered during 2011 and 2012 hydrological cycles and tested for major parameters. Few samples (15) of 2012 were also analyzed to determine TOC, BOD, and COD. The general order of abundance of prominent ion species in groundwater was Cl-, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, HCO3- and SO42-. Very high and similar Cl- concentration in surface water (37 meq/l) and contaminated groundwater (40 mq/l) establish that solid waste stockpile was the point source through leachate. The presence of high (>200 mg/l) TOC, BOD and COD in many surface and groundwater samples supports the inference. Modified Piper plots display the Ca-Mg-Cl and Ca-Mg-HCO3 were the dominant hydrochemical facies in groundwater, whereas many surface water and few groundwater samples belong to Na-Cl/SO4 type. A good correlation (~0.90) between Cl- - Ca2+, TH, Na+, and Mg2+ points out that these ion species were from the same source. Gibbs plots, positive CAI-1 and 2, together with >2 ratios of Ca2+/Mg2+, Cl-/Na+ in many samples divulge water-rock interaction and ion exchange were also controlling the hydrochemistry. The low HCO3-/Cl-, TA/TH and SO42-/HCO3- values indicate an insufficient influx of freshwater and non-lithogenic sources altered the groundwater chemistry. >0.50 ratio of Na++K+/TZ+, Ca2+/Na+, Ca2+/HCO3- together with cross plots of Na+K vs Cl-+ SO42-, HCO3-+ SO42- vs Ca2++Mg2+ and Langelier and Ludwig (modified) diagram confirm the multiple ionization processes were operating in aqueous system. Favorable hydrochemistry in the form of alkaline water, high TH, Cl- and prevailing redox conditions as well as methanogenic phase of dump yard might have spurred up ion enrichment activity within the zone of influence of point source.

The impact of uncontrolled municipal solid waste disposal of 3800 tons per day on surface and groundwater in the downstream of Jawaharnagar dumping site was studied. The un-engineered solid waste dumping yard site spreading over an area of about 300 ha is located on topographic high (hillock), and falls in Madyala stream and Dammaiguda watersheds of Musi sub-basin. The area is underlain by granites of the Archaean age. Both surface and groundwater samples, collected covering hydrological cycles of 2011and 2012, were analyzed for major chemical constituents. During 2012, 15 samples of both seasons were tested for BOD, COD, and TOC. The mean values of some tested chemical constituents of surface water samples (15) were - EC 13066 m S/cm, TH 753, Na+ 813, K+ 530, HCO3− 978, Cl− 1304, and NO3− 262 (all in mg/l) which prove that the tanks and stream near dump yard were pools of leachate. The average values of contaminated groundwater samples among the four sampled sessions (17) indicate EC was above 5000 m S/cm, TH 1624, Cl− 1502, and SO42− 284 (all in mg/l) which were found much above the threshold values. Very few samples were found suitable for drinking purpose and most of the samples fall in Good class of WQI. Very high content of TOC, BOD, and COD in both surface and groundwater samples indicate the presence of organic pollutants sourced from domestic waste dumps. Wide temporal and spatial variability in the concentration of many ion species can be attributed to deviation in rainfall, topography, plume dynamics, and aquifer hydraulics. Low resistivity values (5 to 25 ohm.m) at a distance of 4 km from the dumping site and high infiltration rate (29 cm/hr) at Madyala stream, which were contaminant hotspots, indicate the mass flux was controlled by hydrological features. Scattered and limited distribution of contaminants can be accounted for heterogeneous nature of country rocks, retarded lateral and vertical flow of water which restricts the movement of contaminants to certain preferred pathways. The study supports the hypothesis of solid waste dumps were the epicenter of pollution which generates leachate and dissipate contaminants to the aquatic environment influenced by factors like soils, topography, and aquifer hydraulics and contaminant kinetics.

Boom post is a part of the excavator equipment made from a sand mold or investment molds. Because of its complex shape and difficulty of precise management of heat and fluid flow, a considerable percentage of castings rejected due to shrinkage porosity defect. This research aims to design investment cast mold such that heat flow controlled using thermal insulation wraps on mold surfaces required to promote directional solidification beginning from the farthest region of the mold towards the riser. A geometric model for the boom developed from the exact measurements made at the manufacturing site. CATIA CAD package used for geometric modeling. Three simulation experiments were conducted with and without the thermal insulation wrapping. Simulations run without wrapping revealed the casting regions where shrinkage porosity and hot spots occur. Based on solidification principles, riser(s) designed by maintaining the surface area to volume ratios to promote directional solidification. In addition, the insulation wrappings controlled heat flow to direct the shrinkage formation in riser(s). Thermal insulation ’K-wool’ employed on mold surfaces has delayed cooling of molten steel resulting in shifting shrinkage porosity to risers. Cooling curves at the hot-spot prone sites revealed useful information that helped controlling shrinkage porosity in the complex-shaped casting.

Modern casting manufacturing has taken a next higher level to produce cast products with minimum defects and higher productivity by employing the latest geometrical modeling representing the entire casting with its associated sprue, riser, and gating system. From the perspective of solidification principles, heat flow, fluid flow, and microstructural development during solidification are simulated to improve products’ quality with minimum rejections. The ’tooth point’ is a part made of wear-resistant manganese steel IS276 grade 3 used in the JCB bucket. The ’tooth point’ is part of an excavator bucket tooth mainly used to dig the soil to make pits, remove soil, and excavate in mines and hills. Tooth point encounters hostile conditions of wear, severe shear stress, sudden impact loading leading to fracture. Cracks found to be originating from the internal shrinkage cavities. The demanding specification requirement of the tooth point is primarily to limit the shrinkage porosity at all costs. The present research aims to make geometrical modeling of the entire casting, including sand mold, using SOLIDWORKS based on the actual dimensions of the part obtained from the primary manufacturer, Indy Engineering company. Simulation of heat and fluid flow, leading to complete filling, turbulence, and solidification, have been investigated to produce casting that facilitates directional heat flow and directing the hot spots and shrinkage to the risers. Shrinkage porosity eliminated by incorporating chills and no chills, thus enhancing the service part’s life.

In general sense, propulsion is an act of adjusting the motion of a body. Propulsion mechanisms give the force that moves bodies that are at rest initially. A rocket motor is a classic example of a typical power transmitting system. The chemical energy within the fuel is converted to thermal energy by a combustion method. High pressure and extreme temperature gases are extended through a convergent-divergent nozzle. This process, the internal energy of the gas is changed over into motor power of the fumes stream, and a push is created by the weight level on the surface to which the gas is exposed. Motor case configuration assumes a significant job since it shields the engine from outside components, and it must withstand high temperature and weight created by the engine. The plan and development of the solid rocket motor equipment involve considering wide range of stresses exerted on the motor interior and exterior due to pressure and thermal loads. In this paper, we are going to design a solid-propellant rocket motor casing to a particular thickness that can withstand the required operating pressure developed in the casing and the pressure oscillations developed in the motor case because of the forces developed inside the combustion chamber. The modeling of the motor casing is carried out using Creo Parametric. The structural analysis of the obtained design is done using ANSYS workbench. The results of the stresses in static structural are obtained with the analysis.

Along with tobacco use, alcohol consumption is one of the crucial factors for oral cancer. Acetaldehyde (ACH), a byproduct of alcohol, is reported as carcinogenic. One of the producers of ACH from alcohol is Candida species. The aim of the study was to quantify the ACH produced byClinical isolates ofOut of all three clinical isolates,The study results conclude that

This paper focuses on investigating wear behavior of Austenitic stainless steel-304 using pin-on-disc wear testing tribometer in as-received condition. Wear behavior is of particular concern as the frictional force and coefficients of friction are known to influence the wear significantly. In this study, we have taken austenitic stainless steel (304) as a pin which makes point contact against the mating surface of alumina ceramic disc. Sliding distance and speed are maintained constant during the P-o-D experiments. Experimental runs carried out with load on the pin at three different weights. The scientific data so obtained, viz wear, frictional force, and coefficient of friction are plotted employing Origin Graphs. The microstructure of worn-down surface is characterized using a Scanning Electron Microscope. Results obtained found with a good agreement of wear behavior of austenitic stainless steels. Frictional force and coefficient friction fluctuated severely when the load is applied. The SEM investigations indicate that moderate loading on stainless steel will preserve anti-galling characteristics while offering resistance to wear. However, the 3 kg loading on the pin exhibited a microscopic scale transfer, adhesion and spalling of the material of the pin during sliding. SEM studies revealed that moderate loading preserved anti-galling characteristics of the material of the pin. Results of these investigations will have an impact on applications leading to orthopedic stainless steel implants used against broken bones which are analogous to ceramic. The wear tests have bearing on the products used in ceramic brake pads, ceramic disc brakes of automobiles and railway trucks.

The world is now fighting against a new deadly virus disease, novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which is first declared as public health emergency and later declared as Pandemic by WHO. As COVID-19 spread around the world, governments, companies, international organizations announced measures to help contain the spread. Assam with 36 cases and the other north eastern (NE) states have been able to control the number of cases quite well compared to other states in India. To contain coronavirus spread in Assam, government leveraged nine projects implemented by Piramal Swasthya Management and Research Institute (PSMRI), in addition to other activities. This paper gives the elaborative listings of activities done by PSMRI in respond to COVID-19 outbreak to support the government respond to this pandemic. Activities are- Inbound calling, out bound calling, contact tracing, Visit and follow up of quarantined patients, data entry and updating Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP) portal and door step delivery of medicines. As on 26th April, 1,25,566 COVID-19 related calls received in 104-Health Helpline (HIHL). In addition, 37,886 beneficiaries called for quarantine follow up. Field staffs also visited households of home quarantined patients and screened more than 9000 people for COVID-19. PSMRI also supported in activities of Assam Cares Financial scheme and Dhanwantri Scheme.The above activities helped in mitigating the risk of coronavirus infection and also ‘helped in timely respond to the reported cases.

Study on geochemistry of groundwater occurring at different depths is rarely attempted due to inherent difficulties in sample isolation and lack of significant species variations. Three-dimensional (spatial, temporal and depth-wise) evaluation of water chemistry variations would give holistic picture of aquatic chemistry. In order to fill the knowledge gap the vertical hydrogeochemistry of Penna-Chitravati inter-stream sub-basin is studied.Water samples are segregated into different groups based on water levels of source wells. The group samples pertaining to granite terrain (A to C) does not show much variation for tested parameters as most of the samples fall within 20m water level. In shale aquifers groundwater is progressively less ionized as depth to levels increases (Group D to G). Reduction of EC and Na-Cl along with falling water levels indicates deeper aquifers are free from contamination. Gradual decrease in HCO 3 - with depth substantiates that deeper aquifers are getting less fresh water due to lack of inter connectivity in shale formations. Sodium in groundwater of both the granite and shale aquifers is contributed by weathering of silicate rocks as the Na+/Cl- molar ratio is >1 in many samples. Majority of the samples in both the geological terrains have Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio between 1 to < 2 indicating dolomite dissolution is responsible for Ca2+-Mg2+ contribution. The chemistry of tested water indicate aquifer matrix is responsible for chemical make-up of pore water which was obliterated due to extraneous sources like anthropogenic contamination as Na+, Cl-, NO 3 - and SO 4 2- /HCO 3 - is high in many samples belonging to shallow aquifers. Thermodynamic action in deep aquifers could be responsible for dissimilar water chemistry in aquifers belonging to same geological domain.

Numerical simulation of vacuum investment directionally solidified (DS) high pressure turbine blade casting is carried out using a software. DS turbine blade is produced by pouring the molten CM247LC superalloy into an investment mullite mold. The simulated thermal profiles at three different locations of the DS casting have confirmed that the grain growth has proceeded from bottom to top, which is the direction inverse to the heat extraction and prime requirement of directional solidification. Longitudinal orientation resulted in higher cooling rate, while the transverse in least cooling rate. However, the 45 0 orientation had cooling rate intermediate to that of transverse and longitudinal. The temperature gradient is found to be highest for 45 0 orientation compared to the longitudinal and transverse orientations. Microstructure revealed columnar dendritic structure, γ / γ’ eutectic aggregate, smaller amount of MC type of carbides, and γ’ intermetallic.

Numerical simulation of single crystal high pressure turbine vane is carried out with an objective to investigate the effects of process parameters such as (i) process temperature, (ii) mould withdrawal rate, on thermal profiles, mushy zone, cooling rate and temperature gradient of the casting. The grain structure modelling is performed by Cellular Automation Finite Element (CAFE) module of the commercial finite element based software. Scanning electron microscopy of the experimentally cast single crystal vane is characterized. The simulation studies have shown that the increased process temperature and mold withdrawal rate led to increased temperature gradient and cooling rate of the vane. Conditions for the formation of undesirable stray grains is determined.

The relationship between microbe populations that are active on engineered-product surfaces and their relationship to surface corrosion or human health is increasingly being recognized by the materials engineering community as a critically important study-direction. Microbial contamination from biofilms and germ colonies leads to costs that are reported to be extremely high every year in infection control, epidemics, corrosion loss and energy/infrastructure materials loss throughout the world. Nanostructured surfaces, particularly those that are hard-surface nanoporous (pore radii between 2 and 1000 nm), are an emerging class of surfaces that have recently been recognized as important for the prevention of microbial colony growth and biofilm formation. Such nanostructured/nanoporous surfaces, whether made with deposited nanoparticles (welded nanoparticles), or formed by ion-assisted growth on a surface have been found to display biocidal activity with varying efficacy that depends on both the microbe and the nanosurface features. The rate of mortality from common pathogens that are resident in ubiquitous bio-films when attached to common engineering surfaces made of steels, titanium and zirconium appears to be increasing. In this short review, we look at methods of manufacture of durable (i.e., highly scratch resistant) nanostructuring on commonly used engineering surfaces. The microstructures, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy and other types of characterization of a few such surfaces are presented. Simple tests are required by the surface engineering community for understanding the efficacy of a surface for antimicrobial action. These are reviewed. The surface drying rate and the dynamics of the droplet spread have been proposed in the literature as quick methods that correlate well with the residual antimicrobial activity efficacy even after some surface abrasion of the nanostructured surface. A categorization of a surface against short-term antimicrobial action and long-term action is proposed in this review article. Test periods that span time-frames greater than 5 years have demonstrated a high efficacy of the nanoporous nanostructures for preventing bio-film formation. New comparative results for diamond- and graphite-containing surfaces are presented. A brief discussion on a recently developed plasma application technique for creating durable nanoporous surfaces is presented. Although considerable information is now available regarding tunable surface nanofeatures for antimicroabial efficacy, there is a need for more research activity, particularly directed toward the low cost manufacture and rapid characterization of durable (wear and chemical resistant) surfaces that display permanent antimicrobial behavior.

An in-situ ternary ceramic composite material is developed indigenously by carbo thermal reduction of fly ash in a plasma reactor. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)-Energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analyses of the developed ternary mixture has revealed in-situ conversion of SiO2 to SiC in the vicinity of Al2O3, present in the fly ash material. Presence of carbon in the form of graphite is also confirmed by XRD and EDX analyses. The morphology of the fly ash powder particles is changed from irregular to rod shaped particles with the presence of whiskers (diameter ∼ 0.2 µm, length 8–20 µm). Metal matrix based (Al6061) ceramic composites are prepared with the plasma synthesized fly ash and untreated fly ash composites by stir casting method with different volume fractions of ceramic powders of both the category. Progressive reductions of grain size by increasing volume fractions with segregation of ceramic particles at the grain boundaries are salient features of microstructures. Remarkable improvement in strength and wear resistance is the two significant features of the novel Al6061alloy based composite developed with plasma treated fly ash. Results are presented on the ageing behaviour of the alloy composite for both the categories and mechanical properties of age hardened alloy based composites are compared with monolithic alloy. Accelerated ageing behaviour is observed for alloy based composites, which is found to depend on the morphology of the incoherent dispersed phases. Accelerated precipitation during ageing has been confirmed by hardness versus time as well as by differential scanning calorimetry analysis. Sequences of precipitation for all materials are shown in differential scanning calorimetry thermogram.

Aim: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a potentially malignant disorder with 7.6% of malignant transformation rate into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The aim of the study is to assess the genetic markers p16 and ki-67 in OSF, OSCC, and OSCC with the background of OSF and control group. Materials and Methods: Ten cases of each group were stained with p16 and Ki-67 by immunohistochemistry technique. Results: Statistically significant results were found among the four groups with moderate-to-severe expression (P < 0.05) for Ki-67 and results were negative for p16 in all groups. Conclusion: According to our result, p16 is found not significant marker and Ki-67 can be useful as a proliferative index marker for malignancy development in oral precancerous conditions.

Introduction: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with a number of lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia. Both chronic periodontitis (CP) and COPD share similar risk factor profiles. Thus, recognition of interaction between periodontitis and COPD could lead to establishment of better preventive and therapeutic approaches. The microbial analysis of sputum from COPD patients with CP to detect periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis ( P. gingivalis ) both before and after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised 30 individuals diagnosed as COPD with CP. Periodontal indices, lung function test, and P. gingivalis in sputum were assessed before and 6 months after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Results: A decrease in the count of P. gingivalis and decreased periodontal indices values were observed in COPD patients with periodontitis after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Lung function test (forced expiratory volume in the first/forced vital capacity) was improved in COPD patients with periodontitis after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Conclusions: The study results suggest that nonsurgical periodontal therapy can be a part of treatment protocol in COPD patients because it helps in reducing the P. gingivalis count and improving the lung function.

In the present investigation a new ternary ceramic matrix composite is developed from Indian fly ash by thermal treatment under reducing atmosphere. The ternary mixture, comprising of Al2O3-SiC-C, is formed by insitu conversion of SiO2 to SiC in the fly ash under reducing atmosphere. Analyses of the treated product by XRD, SEM, and EDAX have ensured formation of SiC from SiO2. Converted SiC are rod shaped whiskers with the aspect ratio ranging between 40 to 50. The ternary mixture is added to aluminum melt in a bottom pouring pit type resistance furnace for the preparation of novel aluminum fly ash metal matrix composite (ALFMMC). Physical and mechanical properties of the novel ALFMMC (treated fly ash) composite are evaluated. For comparison purpose, aluminum fly ash composite is prepared with (untreated flyash) under identical condition of melting and casting. Wear resistance is found to be superior for the novel composite.

The fresh groundwater regime in the study area covered with sand dunes is in critical condition, both on quantity and quality aspects. To address the issue of groundwater contaminant sources and its seasonal variations, 10 sets of groundwater samples were collected during 3-year study period (2009–2012). The ionic abundance on an average is constant and in the order of Cl− > Na+ = HCO3 > SO4 2− > NO3 − > Ca2+ = Mg2+ > K+ > CO3 −. Major ion chemistry and Br− content of groundwater indicated marginal salinization during the drought period and it was limited to only peripheries of study area. However, large-scale NO3 −contamination was seen in ~70 % of collected samples. Though the study area is covered with high agriculture activity consuming large-scale inorganic and organic fertilizers, the groundwater contamination in agriculture areas is not as large as in the village environs. Nitrate concentration in the groundwater of village environs is almost double than that of agriculture areas irrespective of season. This could be due to unlined drainage network together with lack of proper domestic and sewerage disposal mechanism. However, no major threat of salinization to the fresh water aquifer is foreseen, even though it is surrounded by saline water bodies.

Saliva plays an important role in maintaining microbial homeostasis in the oral cavity, while salivary gland hypofunction predisposes the oral mucosa to pathologic alteration and increases the risk for oral candidiasis. This study sought to determine the salivary flow rate (SFR) and secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels in HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals and evaluate their relationship with the determinants of oral candidiasis. Sixty HIV-positive (30 with and 30 without oral candidiasis) and 30 healthy HIV-negative individuals were enrolled. Cotton pellet was weighed pre- and post-saliva collection for the assessment of SFR, while SIgA levels were estimated by commercial ELISA (Diametra, Italy) kit. The mean ± SD, SFR and SIgA levels in HIV-positive individuals with candidiasis, without candidiasis and HIV-negative controls were 0.396 ± 0.290, 0.546 ± 0.355 and 0.534 ± 0.214 ml/min and 115.891 ± 37.621, 136.024 ± 51.075 and 149.418 ± 31.765 µg/ml, respectively. A positive correlation between low CD4 counts (indicator of immunodeficiency) and SIgA was observed in HIV-positive individuals with candidiasis (r = 0.373, p = 0.045). We also report here for the first time the significant decrease in SFR and SIgA levels in individuals presenting with pseudomembranous type of oral candidiasis and Candida albicans infection.

Exploiting coal by open-cast mining often poses a threat to groundwater chemistry due to leachate of contaminants from the mine drainage water. In order to assess this, groundwater, river water and mine water samples were collected from Korba Coalfield and analysed for potentially toxic trace elements (PTEs) along with in situ parameters. Thereby, an integrated approach of pollution evaluation indices [heavy metal pollution index (HPI), heavy metal evaluation index (HEI) and contamination index (C d)] and statistical techniques are applied to the results. Paired-sample t tests reveal that the PTE concentrations of the pre-monsoon samples are higher than those of the post-monsoon samples. At a few locations, the concentration of Fe (56%), As (56%), Al (26%), Mn (19%) in pre-monsoon and Mn (46%), Ni (15%), Ba (15%), Pb (8%) in post-monsoon seasons exceeds the acceptable limit of Indian drinking standards. However, HPI values are below the critical pollution index value of 100 in both seasons in spite of an excess of these elements. The pollution indices evaluated by the multiple of the mean values approach reveal that 100, 94, 87% of the pre-monsoon and 92, 92, 85% of the post-monsoon samples belong to the “low-to-medium” category with respect to the HPI, HEI and C d indices. The thematic map depicting the spatial distribution of the contamination index (C d) testifies the role of a “dilution effect” that results in lower pollution loads in the post-monsoon samples than the pre-monsoon ones. The results of cluster analysis confirm that the quality of the water is mainly controlled by geogenic processes and anthropogenic inputs, besides dilution effects.

The unconfined coastal alluvial aquifers, although occurring in limited extent along ocean tracts, cater to the growing water requirements of most of the seaside habitation. By virtue of the physical location, the chemistry of groundwater in marine environment undergoes rapid modifications and is also susceptible to contamination. Through this paper, an attempt is made to chronicle the temporal changes in water chemistry and extent of contamination in the sandy aquifers utilizing the closely monitored data of 13 sampling sessions spread over 4 years. The water is of weak alkaline nature and less mineralized, electrical conductivity (EC) being Na+ > Ca2+ > HCO3 − > Mg2+ > SO4 2− > NO3 −. Na+ and Cl− are almost in similar proportions implying affect of coastal climate on water quality. Even though spatial variations among constituent species are limited, the water can be classified into two distinct facies viz. Ca-Mg-Cl and Na-Cl-SO4 types. The stoichiometry analysis of long-term water chemistry data enunciate that multiple processes were involved in evolution of aquatic chemistry. Water-rock interaction with the aquifer matrix and carbonate dissolution was the most significant. It was further influenced by evaporation process and anthropogenic inputs which are authenticated by mean ionic ratios of Na+/Cl−, SO4 2−/Cl, Mg2+/Ca2+, and HCO3 −/Cl−. Nitrate contamination, which is more rapid in habitat areas, can be attributed to poor sewerage and domestic waste disposal mechanism. Fertilizer inputs and continuous irrigation and agriculture activity can be accounted for the nitrate enrichment in agriculture areas. With the contaminant transport dynamics being uniform in the aquifer, difference in the intensity of contamination can be attributed to land use variations. Point source pollution from domestic and animal waste landfills is causing enormous damage to the groundwater. The study substantiate that shallow phreatic coastal aquifers suffers more from human interference than coastal climate effect.

Hydrogeochemical controlling factors for high rate of groundwater contamination in stressed aquifer of fractured, consolidated rocks belonging to semi-arid watershed are examined. The groundwater in mid-eastern part of Prakasam district confining to Musi-Gundlakamma sub-basins is heavily contaminated with nitrate and fluoride. Distinct water chemistry is noticed among each group of samples segregated based on concentration of these contaminants. The nitrate is as high as 594 mg/l and 57 % of the samples have it in toxic level as per BIS drinking water standards, so also the fluoride which has reached a maximum of 8.96 mq/l and 43 % of samples are not fit for human consumption. Nitrate contamination is high in shallow aquifers and granitic terrains, whereas fluoride is in excess concentration in deeper zones and meta-sediments among the tested wells, and 25 % of samples suffer from both NO3 − and F− contamination. Na+ among cations and HCO3 − among anions are the dominant species followed by Mg2+ and Cl−. The NO3 −-rich groundwater is of Ca2+–Mg2+–HCO3 −, Ca2+–Mg2+–Cl− and Na+–HCO3 − type. The F−-rich groundwater is dominantly of Na+–HCO3 − type and few are of Na+–SO4 2− type, whereas the safe waters (without any contaminants) are of Ca2+–Mg2+–HCO3 −– and Na+–HCO3 − types. High molecular percentage of Na+, Cl−, SO4 2− and K− in NO3 − rich groundwater indicates simultaneous contribution of many elements through domestic sewerage and agriculture activity. It is further confirmed by analogous ratios of commonly associated ions viz NO3 −:Cl−:SO4 2− and NO3 −:K+:Cl− which are 22:56:22 and 42:10:48, respectively. The F− rich groundwater is unique by having higher content of Na+ (183 %) and HCO3 − (28 %) than safe waters. The K+:F−:Ca2+ ratio of 10:5:85 and K+:F−: SO4 2− of 16:7:77 support lithological origin of F− facilitated by precipitation of CaCO3 which removes Ca2+ from solution. The high concentrations of Na+, CO3 − and HCO3 − in these waters act as catalyst allowing more fluorite to dissolve into the groundwater. The indices, ratios and scatter plots indicate that the NO3 − rich groundwater has evolved through silicate weathering-anthropogenic activity-evapotranspiration processes, whereas F− rich groundwater attained its unique chemistry from mineral dissolution-water–rock interaction-ion exchange. Both the waters are subjected to external infusion of certain elements such as Na+, Cl−, NO3 − which are further aggravated by evaporation processes leading to heavy accumulation of contaminants by raising the water density. Presence of NO3 − rich samples within F− rich groundwater Group and vice versa authenticates the proposed evolution processes.

The study was aimed at finding the effect of garlic and resveratrol on loss of β-cells and diabetic complication in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Type-I diabetic rats. Rats were injected with single dose STZ (50 mg/kg, i.p.) for induction of type 1 diabetes (Dia) and compared with control group. Rats from third (Dia+Gar), fourth (Dia+Resv), and fifth (Dia+Met) groups were fed raw garlic homogenate (250 mg/kg/day), resveratrol (25 mg/kg/day), and metformin (500 mg/kg/day) orally, respectively, for a period of 4 weeks. Diabetic group had decreased serum insulin and hydrogen sulfide levels along with increased blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin, triglyceride, uric acid, and nitric oxide levels. Significant (p < 0.05) increase in pancreatic and hepatic TBARS, conjugated dienes, nitric oxide, and AGE level and significant (p < 0.05) decrease in SOD, catalase, H2S, GSH level were observed in diabetic group. Administration of garlic, resveratrol, and metformin significantly (p < 0.05) normalized most of the altered metabolic and oxidative stress parameters as well as histopathological changes. Administration of garlic, resveratrol, and metformin in diabetic rat decreases pancreatic β-cell damage and hepatic injury. Our data concluded that administration of garlic showed more promising effect in terms of reducing oxidative stress and pathological changes when compared to resveratrol and metformin groups.

Tamil Nadu is located in the South-Eastern part of Indian peninsula, between 8.087° and 13.09°N and 76.50° and 80.27°E. Bluetongue (BT) was first reported in this region in sheep during 1982 with regular occurrence thereafter. In 1989-1990, 1997-1998 and 2005-2006, there was wide spread occurrence of BT resulting in huge mortality of sheep. The present study had the goal of isolating the BTV from outbreaks in sheep occurred in Tamil Naadu between 2003-2011 and comparing the VP2 gene sequences of the BTV isolates involved in such outbreaks. Serotypes 1, 2, 16, and 23 of the Bluetongue virus (BTV) have been isolated from sheep during BT outbreaks. BTV-16 has also been isolated in goats and cattle in the region; BTV-2 isolated in Tamil Nadu has homology with BTV-2 isolated in Africa; whereas the BTV-23 isolated in this area has homology with BTV-23 from South East Asia, indicating that both Eastern and Western topotypes of BTV are circulating in ruminant population in Tamil Nadu.

Thirty-six groundwater samples were collected from Chimakurthy area, Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh. On hydrogeochemical evaluation, it was found to be contaminated. Based on fluoride concentration, the samples were segregated into Group A, Group B, and Group C. Fluoride concentration varies from 0.23 to 9.84 mg/l, with the mean value of 2.01 mg/l; 44 % of the tested samples had F− > 1.50 mg/l. Apart from F−, the water was contaminated with NO3 − and Cl− implying both geogenic and anthropogenic pollution of the aquifer. Ionic dominance pattern was unique in samples with low, moderate to high F− concentrations. Na+ and HCO3 − were progressively increasing along with F− from Group A to C, whereas Ca2+ and Mg2+ were depleting. Groundwater facies were unique among different group samples especially in end members with low and high F− concentration suggesting that F− dissolution was strongly influenced by the chemical nature of solution. Na+/Cl− molar ratio was >1, whereas Na+ + K+:Tz+ and Ca2+ + Mg2+:Tz+ ratios were

Provided in this article are the quantitative and qualitative morphological results describing the action of several nanostructured surfaces for bactericidal and bacteriostatic action. Results are also provided to illustrate microbial corrosion and its impact. Biofilm formation is correlated to colony formation. Nanostructured surfaces, i.e. surfaces with welded nanoparticles are noted to display biocidal activity with varying efficacies. Porous nanostructures, on stainless steel and copper substrates, made of high purity Ag, Ti, Al, Cu, MoSi2, and carbon nanotubes, are tested for their efficacy against bacterial colony formation for both gram-negative, and gram-positive bacteria. Silver and Molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2) nanostructures are found to be the most effective bactericidal agents with MoSi2 being particularly effective in both low and high humidity conditions. Bacteriostatic activity is also noted. The nanostructured surfaces are tested by controlled exposures to several microbial species including (Gram+ve) bacteria such as Bacillus Cereus and (Gram-ve) bacteria such as Enterobacter Aerogenes. The resistance to simultaneous exposure from diverse bacterial species including Arthrobacter Globiformis, Bacillus Megaterium, and Cupriavidus Necator is also studied. The nanostructured surfaces were found to eliminates or delay bacterial colony formation, even with short exposure times, and even after simulated surface abrasion. The virgin 316 stainless steel and copper substrates, i.e. without the nanostructure, always displayed rapid bacterial colony evolution indicating the lack of antimicrobial action. The efficacy of the nanostructured surface against colony formation (bacterial recovery) for E-Coli (two strains) and virus Phi 6 Bacteriophage with a host Pseudomonas Syringae was also studied. Preliminary results are presented that also show possible anti-fungal properties by the nanostructured MoSi2. When comparing antimicrobial efficacy of flat polished surfaces (no curvature or nanostructure) with nanostructure containing surfaces (high curvature) of the same chemistry, shows that bacterial action results from both the nanostructure size and chemistry.

The study on water level conditions of fractured aquifer system in northeastern part of Anantapur district is of immense importance as the area is covered by varied geological formations and has different irrigation patterns. The monthly groundwater level data of 154 observation wells for five year period (2001–06) is analyzed to decipher the behavior of water levels in different seasons and geo-environments. The hydrographs of the average water level data of each Mandal (group of villages) indicate steady declining trend ranging from 0.50 to 2.91m/yr. Yellanuru Mandal has both the shallowest and the deepest water levels among eight Mandals, highly undulating terrain could be one of the reasons for this contrasting condition. The pre-monsoon water levels show decline of 8.22 m in one year from May 2002 to 2003. A negative seasonal fluctuation of −1.49m has occurred in the year 2002 during which the area received 32% less than normal rainfall. The mean water levels are deeper by 42% in areas covered by sedimentary formations than those of granite terrain. Raise in water levels is significant where monthly rainfall is more than 200 mm. Due to erratic rainfall in space and time, deeper water levels are noticed even in post-monsoon period and shallow in February month at some locations. The water levels in command areas are deep and exhibit falling trend as the area forms the tail end part of the Tunga Bhadra High Level Canal. The deeper water level conditions and its declining feature is directly related to groundwater development in the form of increased agriculture activity, reduced area under rain-fed crops, high horticulture development. Arid climatic conditions, low precipitation and continuous exploitation of groundwater resources could be other factors contributing for steady decline in water levels in the area. The wide variations in groundwater levels could be due to uneven topography, heterogeneous and anisotropic conditions of granites and poor porosity — permeability of shales, lack of vegetation, and increased groundwater extraction.

The assessment of hydrogeochemical processes that govern the water quality of inland freshwater aquifers in coastal environment, especially in Indian sub-continent, is occasionally attempted. To bridge the gap, a detail hydrochemical evaluation of groundwater occurring in coastal alluvium is attempted. Single set of high-density water sampling is done from a limited area to gain an in-depth knowledge of the processes that govern the water chemistry of the sandy aquifers. The water is of weak alkaline nature and less mineralized, EC being Na+ > Ca2+ > HCO3 − > SO4 2− > Mg2+ > NO3 −. Na+ and Cl− are almost in similar proportions implying the influence of coastal climate on water quality. The water shows modest variation in their ionic assemblage among different sample points as evident from Schoeller scheme. Groundwater can be classified into three distinct facies viz. Cl−–Ca2+–Mg2+, Na+–Cl− and Ca2+–Mg2+–HCO3 − types. The ionic assemblages, their indices, ratios and cross-plots substantiate that multiple processes were involved in the evolution of the water chemistry. Among them, silicate weathering, halite dissolution, ion exchange and base exchange played prominent role in the ion enrichment of groundwater. The aquatic chemistry is further influenced and modified by marine environment, evapotranspiration and anthropogenic inputs which is authenticated by good correlation (r 2 = 1) among the Na+–Cl−, EC–Mg2+, Na+ and Cl−. Gibbs plots established that evaporation is more responsible for contribution of minerals to the groundwater than aquifer material. Nitrate contamination can be attributed for poor sewerage disposal mechanism which is aggravated by fertilizer inputs, irrigation practices and agriculture activity. A contrasting correlation (r 2 ≥90 to

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chronic inflammatory condition due to areca nut (Areca catechu) chewing which induces fibrosis leading to the difficulty in mouth opening. Various profibrotic cytokines and chemokines have been found involved in fibrosis. The present study was aimed to find the role of interleukin 13 (IL-13) in recruiting the myofibroblasts and as a causative factor for fibrosis in OSF. Twenty-five sections of OSF tissue and ten sections of normal mucosa were stained with IL-13, TGF-α1 and β-SMA antibodies using immunohistochemical method. Immunostaining was done to assess staining intensity and percentage of positive cells. The results were analyzed by SPSS software. The expression of all three markers IL-13, TGF- β1 and α-SMA showed significant difference between control and OSF (p < 0.001), control and early OSF (p < 0.001) control and advanced OSF (p < 0.001). No statistical difference was found between early OSF and advanced OSF. Significant expression of IL-13 and its correlation with TGF-β and α-SMA suggests its role in pathogenesis of OSF.

Hydrogeochemical studies were carried out in the Penna–Chitravathi river basins to identify and delineate the important geochemical processes which were responsible for the evolution of chemical composition of groundwater. The area is underlain by peninsular gneissic complex of Archaean age, Proterozoic meta-sediments, and strip of river alluvium. Groundwater samples were collected covering all the major hydrogeological environs in pre- and post-monsoon seasons. The samples were analyzed for major constituents such as Ca2 + , Mg2 + , Na + , K + , CO3 − , HCO3 − , Cl − , SO2 − 4, NO3 − , and F − . The groundwater in general is of Na + –Cl − , Na + –HCO3 − , Ca2 + –Mg2 + –HCO3 − , and Ca2 + –Mg2 + –Cl − types. Na + among cations and Cl − and/or HCO3 − among anions dominate the water; Na + and Ca2 + are in the transitional state with Na + replacing Ca2 + and HCO3 − Cl − due to physiochemical changes in the aquifer and water–rock interactions. The Ca2 + –Mg2 + –Cl − HCO3 − type water in one third samples suggest that ion exchange and dissolution processes are responsible for its origin. Change in storage of aquifer in a season does not influence the major geochemical makeup of groundwater. Gibbs plots indicate that the evolution of water chemistry is influenced by water–rock interaction followed by evapotranspiration process. The aquifer material mineralogy together with semiarid climate, poor drainage system, and low precipitation factors played major role in controlling groundwater quality of the area.

The results of a study evaluating the recharge/discharge conditions of an unconfined stressed granitic aquifer situated in a semi-arid region of Andhra Pradesh, Southern India are presented. Over the last three decades, excessive withdrawal of groundwater has drastically lowered the water table to the bedrock. The watershed studied was divided into four zones based on geomorphology and hydrogeological conditions. Using environmental chloride data pertaining to groundwater, soil depth profiles, and some hydrogeologic and hydrochemical observations, a recharge model for the watershed was developed. The model revealed that the bulk of the vertical recharge in the western elevated land occurs through preferred pathways and that a small fraction occurs through the soil matrix. In addition, the watershed has a poor hydrogeologic fabric, as indicated by the small range of matrix flow recharge (1 to 1·5% of rainfall) among the four zones. The dominating preferential flow was high (∼16% of the annual average rainfall) in the valley fills, but decreased to 5–5·5% in the plains. Furthermore, although the bulk of the recharge occurs vertically, considerable lateral movement of groundwater down the slope indicates that sequential hydrochemical changes occur. Distinct geomorphological features that exist in the watershed support the proposed model. Situations similar to those described above may exist in numerous watersheds in the granitic hard rock region; therefore, information obtained from investigations conducted in this watershed can aid in the development of plans enabling the sustainable exploitation of watersheds that have not yet been developed, as well as implementation of appropriate rainwater conservation measures in over-exploited watersheds. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.