Energy Dispersive X-ray Microanalysis Research Articles

A Comparative Evaluation of Surface and Elemental Changes in Stainless Steel and Titanium Orthodontic Mini-screw Implants: A Multi-arm Randomized Control Trial.

The present study aimed to compare and quantify the surface changes seen in two most commonly used orthodontic miniscrew implants (MSI) materials; titanium and stainless steel after their clinical use. 40 MSIs (20 titanium and 20 stainless steel) were retrieved from the maxillary arch of 20 subjects (13 females and 7 males) in the age group of 18 - 27 years (mean age=22.4 ± 3.83 years) after their intended use. 40 (20 titanium and 20 stainless steel) asreceived MSIs were used as control. All the MSIs were analyzed under a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for the characterization of their morphological condition (blunting of tip, surface defects and corrosion). Furthermore, Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis was carried out to study the changes in surface characterization. When imaged using SEM, as-received Titanium and Stainless Steel MSIs demonstrated a relatively smooth surface with no surface defects. However, the retrieved titanium and stainless-steel implants showed increased surface defects (both corrosion and cracks) with the difference being statistically significant. The retrieved Titanium MSIs (115.31±24.38μm) showed 4 times more blunting compared to the retrieved Stainless-steel MSIs (29.74±8.56 μm), with the latter showing 2-3 times more surface corrosion. Clinical usage had pronounced effects on both Titanium and Stainless steel MSI alloys in terms of changes in the surface characteristics. While stainless steel MSIs are more susceptible to surface corrosion, Titanium MSIs exhibit greater alterations in the form of tipblunting and cracks in screw threads.

Development of an Integrated CMUTs-based Resonant Biosensor for Label-Free Detection of DNA with Improved Selectivity by Ethylene-Glycol Alkanethiols

Gravimetric resonant-inspired biosensors have attracted increasing attention in industrial and point-of-care applications, enabling label-free detection of biomarkers such as DNA and antibodies. Capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUTs) are promising tools for developing miniaturized high-performance biosensing complementary metal oxide silicon (CMOS) platforms. However, their operability is limited by inefficient functionalization, aggregation, crosstalk in the buffer, and the requirement for an external high-voltage (HV) power supply. In this study, we aimed to propose a CMUTs-based resonant biosensor integrated with a CMOS front-end interface coupled with ethylene-glycol alkanethiols to detect single-stranded DNA oligonucleotides with large specificity. The topography of the functionalized surface was characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Improved selectivity for on-chip hybridization was demonstrated by comparing complementary and non-complementary single-stranded DNA oligonucleotides using fluorescence imaging technology. The sensor array was further characterized using a five-element lumped equivalent model. The 4-mm2 application-specific integrated circuit chip was designed and developed through 0.18 μm HV Bipolar-CMOS-Double diffused MOS (DMOS) technology (BCD) to generate on-chip 20V HV boosting and to track feedback frequency under a standard 1.8 V supply, with a total power consumption of 3.8 mW in a continuous mode. The measured results indicated a detection sensitivity of 7.943 × 10−3 μmol∙ L−1∙Hz−1 over a concentration range of 1 to 100 μmol∙L−1. In conclusion, the label-free biosensing of DNA under dry conditions was successfully demonstrated using a microfabricated CMUT array with a 2 MHz frequency on CMOS electronics with an internal HV supplier. Moreover, ethylene-glycol alkanethiols successfully deposited self-assembled monolayers on aluminum electrodes, which has never been attempted thus far on CMUTs, to enhance the selectivity of bio-functionalization. The findings of this study indicate the possibility of full-on-chip DNA biosensing with CMUTs.

Characterization of refractory aerosol particles collected in the tropical upper troposphere–lower stratosphere (UTLS) within the Asian tropopause aerosol layer (ATAL)

Abstract. Aerosol particles with diameters larger than 40 nm were collected during the flight campaign StratoClim 2017 within the Asian tropopause aerosol layer (ATAL) of the 2017 monsoon anticyclone above the Indian subcontinent. A multi-impactor system was installed on board the aircraft M-55 Geophysica, which was operated from Kathmandu, Nepal. The size and chemical composition of more than 5000 refractory particles/inclusions of 17 selected particle samples from seven different flights were analyzed by use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) combined with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis. Based on chemical composition and morphology, the refractory particles were assigned to the following particle groups: extraterrestrial, silicates, Fe-rich, Al-rich, Hg-rich, other metals, C-rich, soot, Cl-rich, and Ca-rich. Most abundant particle groups within the refractory particles are silicates and C-rich (non-volatile organics). In samples taken above the tropopause, extraterrestrial particles are becoming increasingly important with rising altitude. The most frequent particle sources for the small (maximum in size distribution DP-max=120 nm) refractory particles carried into the ATAL are combustion processes at the ground (burning of fossil fuels/biomass burning) and the agitation of soil material. The refractory particles in the ATAL represent only a very small fraction (< 2 % by number for particles > 40 nm) of the total aerosol particles, which are dominated by species like ammonium, sulfate, nitrate, and volatile organics. During one flight, a large number of very small (DP-max=25 nm) cinnabar particles (HgS) were detected, which are supposed to originate from a ground source such as coal combustion or underground coal fires.

Scanning electron microscopy analysis of non-metallic inclusions for making steels with superior mechanical properties

The objective of this novel research was to further understand the type, size and areal distribution of the non-metallic inclusions in bearing steels by applying state-of-the-art scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis in order to develop steels with superior properties. Ten samples were taken from bearing steel grade 52100 and analysed by SEM. It was concluded that SEM allows deeper understanding regarding the type, morphology, size, and distribution of the non-metallic inclusions by covering larger sample areas and accurate automatic energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis of the inclusions. While most of the non-metallic inclusions had an equivalent circle diameter (ECD) smaller than 20 µm, the main type of inclusions with ECDs larger than 20 µm were calcium aluminates. As the higher sulphur will tend to create sulphide type of inclusions and the lower sulphur will shift the inclusions towards calcium aluminate oxide types, it is recommended to keep the sulphur content at amounts above threshold that calcium aluminates appear.

Effect of bone age and anatomy on the variability of the bovine bone by-product by Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis

Bone is among the main by-products of the meat and dairy livestock. Currently, in many countries, it is valorised in pet food, disposed through incineration or exported. However, thanks to its biological and mechanical properties, it could be used in several bio-based products such as coatings, packaging, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium supply, flame retardants, etc. Successful valorisations routes of discarded bones need a comprehensive characterization of the bone tissue variability with major biological factors such as age of the animal and the anatomy of the bone itself. In this study, this variability was assessed through Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Bones optical properties (refractive index and absorption coefficient) and main minerals (calcium and phosphorous), were determined for adult cows’ femurs and tibias, from the same breed and breeding system and in the age range 93–120 months. Clustering analysis was then carried out, by unsupervised statistical tools (Principal Component Analysis and Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering). Results showed that the bones considered can be grouped in two classes, represented by each anatomy; besides, the anatomy was most significant than age. The refractive index increased with age and was higher for femur; the cluster of tibias was more homogeneous than femurs. The THz radiation showed to be a useful and non-destructive tool to assess bovine bones variability and also their optical properties. This radiation could be applied to the predict animal bone components (collagen and minerals) extractability so as to valorise each cluster according to its potential.

Eco-Friendly Bamboo-Based Composites

The study focuses on obtaining bamboo-based composite materials and new environmentally friendly binders with different degrees of silylation (15-35%) at different pressures and temperatures. The synthesis was carried out using silylated polystyrene (poly[trimethoxy(4-vinylphenethyl)] silane) and styrene as a binder and reinforcing agent in the presence of organic/inorganic additives, antioxidants and antipirene. Poly[trimethoxy(4-vinylphenethyl)] silane, a solid brown substance, was synthesized via an alkylation reaction of vinyltrimethoxysilane and polystyrene, in the presence of anhydrous AlCl3. This paper presents the development of composites for ecological purposes (eco-composites) using bamboo fibers and their basic mechanical properties. The surface structures of the new composites were studied by several techniques including electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, bending test, Charpy impact test, thermogravimetry study, and water absorption determination. The new composites are characterized by good mechanical properties, thermal resistance, ecological purity, and water absorption capacity much smaller than the water absorption of existing particle boards.

The Structural, Thermal and Morphological Characterization of Polylactic Acid/Β-Tricalcium Phosphate (PLA/Β-TCP) Composites upon Immersion in SBF: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Biocomposite films based on PLA reinforced with different β-TCP contents (10%, 20%, and 25%wt.) were fabricated via solvent casting and immersed in SBF for 7, 14, and 21 days. The bioactivity, morphological, and thermal behavior of composites with immersion were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis, weight loss (WL), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). This broad analysis leads to a deeper understanding of the evolution of the polymer-filler interaction with the degradation of the biocomposites. The results showed that β-TCP gradually evolved into carbonated hydroxyapatite as the immersion time increased. This evolution affected the interaction of β-TCP with PLA. PLA and β-TCP interactions differed from PLA and carbonated hydroxyapatite interactions. It was observed that β-TCP inhibited PLA hydrolysis but accelerated the thermal degradation of the polymer. β-TCP retarded the cold crystallization of PLA and hindered its crystallinity. However, after immersion in SBF, particles accelerated the cold crystallization of PLA. Therefore, considering the evolution of β-TCP with immersion in SBF is crucial for an accurate analysis of the biocomposites' degradation. These findings enhance the comprehension of the degradation mechanism in PLA/β-TCP, which is valuable for predicting the degradation performance of PLA/β-TCP in medical applications.

Rapid Growth of Niobium Oxide Nanowires by Joule Resistive Heating

Joule heating of niobium (Nb) metal wires by running a high electric current density through them has been used to grow Nb2O5 nanowires. The formation of a micrometric oxide layer on the Nb wires has also been observed. The size and density of the nanowires are related to the current values applied, as well as the thickness of the oxide layer formed. Characterization of both nanowires and oxide layer has been performed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, and micro-Raman spectroscopy. It has been observed that this method allows the growth of Nb2O5 nanowires in times as short as tens of seconds.

A structural study and some magnetic properties of the (Sc,Nb)Fe2 series of compounds

We report on the effects of Nb for Sc substitution on the structural and magnetic properties of the Sc1-xNbxFe2 series of compounds by means of scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, X-ray powder diffraction, and magnetic measurements. The study focus on hexagonal P63/mmc crystal symmetry structure of the ScFe2 phase retained along the series. Whereas the unit cell is found to decrease regularly upon increasing the niobium content the magnetic properties are found to evolve in a non monotonous manner. A drop of the magnetization and Curie temperature is observed upon substitution, the highest TC being 530 K. Indeed, it is shown that Nb for Sc substitution induces dramatic changes of the magnetic properties such as a strong decrease of the ordering temperature and significant reduction of the spontaneous magnetization for Nb content above x=0.2 and 0.1, respectively. The highest magnetization is found for the Sc rich side with values of about 2.6 µB/f.u. corresponding to 1.3 µB/Fe atom. Moreover, compounds with x=0.75 and 1 are no longer exhibiting ferromagnetic order even at 2 K. The easy magnetization direction of Sc1-xNbxFe2 series of compounds is determined to be along the c-axis at room temperature.

Comparative Analysis of Tissue Copper Levels in Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) Patients

ABSTRACT Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a recognized potentially malignant oral condition linked to the consumption of areca nut. Chewing areca nut has been shown to elevate soluble copper levels in mouth fluids. Materials and Methods: Participants: The study included a panel of 30 patients with OSMF from Rama Dental College, Kanpur, India, and 30 nonareca chewing individuals serving as controls. Tissue Sample Collection and Analysis: Buccal mucosal biopsies were obtained from both OSMF patients and controls. The tissue copper concentrations were quantified using mass absorption spectrometry (MAS). Additionally, energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX) was employed to identify the presence and distribution of copper in the tissue. Statistical Analysis: Statistical comparisons were performed using appropriate methods, with a P-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: MAS analysis revealed that the mean tissue copper level was 6.2 ± 3.1 micrograms per gram (μg/g) in OSMF specimens (n = 30), slightly higher than the 4.5 ± 2.0 μg/g in the nonareca chewing controls (n = 30) (P = 0.1). EDX analysis showed distinct copper peaks in both the epithelium (22/23) and connective tissue (18/23) of OSMF specimens compared to control biopsies. These findings were corroborated by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) in a subset of samples. Conclusion: The study revealed higher copper concentrations in buccal mucosal tissue of OSMF patients from Rama Dental College, Kanpur, suggesting a potential connection between copper and the initiation of OSMF.

Effect of substrate temperature on structure, morphology and optical properties of Sb2Se3 thin films fabricated by chemical-molecular beam deposition method from Sb and Se precursors for solar cells

Sb2Se3 thin films were obtained by chemical-molecular beam deposition on soda-lime glass from high purity Sb and Se precursors at 400 °C, 450 °C and 500 °C substrate temperature. Due to the precise control of the Sb/Se ratio, Sb2Se3 thin films with stoichiometric composition were obtained, which was confirmed by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. The effect of substrate temperature on morphology, structure and optical properties of Sb2Se3 thin-films were studied by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and from the analysis of absorption and transmission spectra of the films. Average diameters and lengths of Sb2Se3 rods deposited at different substrate temperature were the range of 0.5–2 µm and 1–4 µm respectively which was grown at different slope and compactness to the substrate. The optical bandgap of the films was determined from the transmission and reflection spectra and 1.16, 1.21 and 1.26 eV band gap energies were observed for 500, 450 and 400 ℃ substrate temperature Sb2Se3 thin films respectively.

Fe3O4@SiO2 core/shell functionalized by gallic acid: a novel, robust, and water-compatible heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst for environmentally friendly synthesis of acridine-1,8-diones.

In this study, we conveniently prepared a novel robust heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst using a Fe3O4@SiO2 core/shell stabilized by gallic acid. The catalyst was completely characterized by various physicochemical techniques, including infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), potentiometric titration, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), zeta potential analysis, and BET. The potential ability of the newly developed sulfonated nanocatalyst was then exploited in the multicomponent synthesis of acridine-1,8-dione derivatives by considering the green chemistry matrix and under mild conditions. Various aldehydes and amines were smoothly reacted with dimedone, affording the desired products in good to excellent yields. The introduction of sulfonic groups using gallic acid allowed the development of a water-compatible and highly recyclable catalytic system for reactions in an aqueous environment. The prepared catalyst can be readily magnetically separated and reused eight times without significant loss of activity. High synthetic efficiency, using a recyclable and eco-sustainable catalyst under mild conditions, and easy product isolation are salient features of this catalytic system, which makes this protocol compatible with the demands of green chemistry.

ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ МИКРОВКЛЮЧЕНИЙ МЕТАЛЛОВ И МИНЕРАЛОВ В ГОРНЫХ ПОРОДАХ: ПРОБЛЕМЫ ИНТЕРПРЕТАЦИИ РЕЗУЛЬТАТОВ И ИХ ПРИМЕНЕНИЕ ПРИ ИЗУЧЕНИИ МАГМАТОГЕННЫХ СИСТЕМ КАМЧАТКИ И СТАНОВОЙ СКЛАДЧАТОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

The article discusses the problems of interpreting the results of studies on microinclusions of metals and minerals by scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis, which are related to the influence of the matrix material. The method was shown to work well when studying “relatively large” (5-10 μm) microinclusions for the purpose of their phase identification and semi-quantitative determination of composition normalized to 100%. The possibilities of “cleaning” the analysis results from “additives” introduced by matrix elements are discussed, as well as criteria for assessing the distance from the boundaries of a micro-object at which the influence of the matrix becomes minimal. The use of the results obtained using these approaches is illustrated by the examples of studying the petrology and metallogeny of igneous rocks of Kamchatka and the Stanovoy fold belt, during which new data were obtained on petrological processes in the mantle-crustal substrate beneath the active volcanic arc and on the evolution of the ore-magmatic system beneath the ancient active continental margin.

Novel direct synthetic route of 2D Prussian Blue analogue, nanocrystalline CuHCF, as highly effective cathode materials for Zn-ion supercapacitors

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) with 2D morphology of nanocrystals have attracted much attention for aqueous electrolyte-based energy storage devices. In this study, we synthesized a 2D Prussian blue analogue, nanocrystals of copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF), via a facile stepwise route involving a modified copper substrate of Cu(OH)2 nanorods that was used for the formation of two-dimensional CuHCF crystals. These materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The cathode based on 2D CuHCF exhibits high specific capacity (240 F/g (63.9 mAh/g) at 0.1 A/g) with excellent cycling stability (98.5% retention after 1000 charge-discharge cycles) in 3 M ZnSO4 electrolyte. The flat two-dimensional morphology of CuHCF provides sufficient ion diffusion channels and the numerous electroactive interfaces for intercalation charge storage.

Effects of Pollution on the Haematology of Cyprinus carpio Inhabiting two Government Sponsored Fish Ponds in East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, India

Adult Cyprinus carpio were collected from two government sponsored fish ponds located at Fish Dale and Laitkyrhong, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, India. The effects of pollutants on haematological parameters of Cyprinus carpio were studied. The results showed a decline in RBC and WBC count and haemoglobin content in fishes collected from Laitkyrhong. Micronucleus assaywas carried out following standard protocols and observations were made using Olympus, BX- 53 image analyser, CellSens Standard (software). Analysis showed a number of micronucleus and nuclear abnormalities of the erythrocytes of Cyprinus carpio from Laitkyrhong as compared to fishes from Fish Dale. Scanning Electron Microscopy study revealed swollen erythrocytes called spherocytes, ruptured erythrocytes and crenations at the erythrocyte membranes while the control erythrocytes showed normal features. The Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopic analysis was by INCA-7582 (Oxford) Energy Dispersive X-ray microanalyser equipped with a Si (Li) high resolution detector attached to the scanning electron microscope, JSM-6360 (Jeol). Differences in the EDS spectra of RBCs from control, Laitkyrhong and Fish Dale fishes were observed to be in terms of Silicon (Si), Aluminium (Al) and Titanium (Ti) were absent in the control sample. The presence of silicon in erythrocytes of fishes inhabiting Fish Dale and Laitkyrhong area suggests that silicon may be the main factor for the various deformities in the haematological parameters of Cyprinus carpio. The deformities observed may affect the growth and survival of these fishes. Therefore, there is a constant need to check the flow of polluted waters in the rearing ponds especially during the rainy seasons. The present study suggests that haematological study may serve as a tool in determining the health of the fish and the type of environment in which it lives.

The armoured cuticle of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens

We characterise in detail the larval and pupal cuticle of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), a key insect species in circular economy. In particular, we focus on ultrastructure using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, material characterization and composition (elements and minerals) with confocal laser scanning microscope, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, powder X-ray diffraction and mechanical properties with nanoindentation measurements. Calcium carbonate crystallizes on the epicuticle as blocks of calcite in the pupal cuticle. Calcium carbonate granules are stored in two specialised Malpighian tubules. CaCO3 is already present in the cuticle of young larval instars, but it is mainly in the form of amorphous calcium carbonate while the amount of calcite increases during larval development. The presence of calcite leads to cuticle hardening. Larval and pupal cuticles contain large amounts of resilin which guarantee cuticle flexibility.

Structural, electrical, and magnetic characteristics of eco-friendly Dy modified BiFeO3 ceramics

The study of basic crystal structure, dielectrics, magnetic and electrical characteristics of a high temperature sintered dysprosium (Dy) substituted bismuth ferrite (BFO) ceramic material, Bi(Fe0.90Dy0.10)O3 (abbreviated as BFDO10) has been reported in this work. The solid-state reaction (SSR) technique is adopted for synthesizing the material. Study of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) data shows an orthorhombic symmetry. The approximate crystallite size is found to be 29 nm. The field emission scanning electron micrograph (FESEM) shows a high density grains of the sample and energy dispersive X-ray micro-analysis (EDXMA) reveals the presence of its basic components. The extensive analysis of the dielectric and electrical properties of the sample was carried out within a frequency from 1 kHz to 1000 kHz and temperature ranges from 25 to 500 °C. A study of the impedance spectroscopy reveals a negative temperature coefficient of resistance (NTCR) behavior and a non-Debye type of dielectric relaxation process of the compound. The ac-conductivity (σac ) of the material follows Jonscher’s universal power law. A study of the electric field polarization confirms the enhancement in remnant polarization and coercive field. The magnetic property shows an enhancement in ferromagnetic orders by virtue of this doping. Moreover, several other interesting features which could be utilized for modern device applications also specified in this article.

Use of in-situ synthesized magnetic ferrite to remove heavy metals from waters

Exposure to low levels of Pb(II) and Cd(II) is a public health concern, particularly in developing countries where regulations are more permissive. The consequences of such exposure are very serious, especially for infants, children and pregnant women. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate rapid, economical and feasible methods for its elimination, being this goal the purpose of this work. A novel procedure for the simultaneous removal of both species in water at different concentrations by in situ formation of magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) is discussed here. Optimization of the experimental conditions led to approximately 100 % removal efficiency in only 5 min. The sorbent material was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. In addition, the removal process of Pb(II) and Cd(II) was characterized by adsorption Langmuir isotherms. The thermodynamics of the removal of both species, Pb(II) and Cd(II), from water has been studied by fitting the adsorption isotherms and calculating the Gibbs free energy and enthalpy of the process. The results indicate that the adsorption process can be explained as a combination of physical and chemical adsorption. Moreover, the findings of this work show a faster and more economical process than those previously described, which also allows a simultaneous removal of both metals.

SYNTHESIS AND PPOPERTIES OF ZNO/ZNWO4 NANOCOMPOSITES FOR PHOTOELECTROCHEMICAL APPLICATIONS:

A series of ZnO/ZnWO4 nanocomposites with different ZnWO4 content based on ZnO and WO3 nanopowders electrochemically synthesized under pulse alternating current was obtained. A complex of physicochemical methods (X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis) was used to study the composition and structural characteristics of the obtained materials. The nanocomposite with optimal composition (ZnO 90%, ZnWO4 ~6%) was used as a photoanode material for a flow photocatalytic fuel cell with sulfate electrolyte with the addition of organic and inorganic fuel. The maximum values of Eoc and Pmax, which were 850 mV and 85.8 μW/cm2, respectively, were achieved using Na2SO4 with the addition of glucose as a fuel.

Monitoring of surrogate zoonotic parasites of Anisakidae and Echinobothrium deeghai as bioindicators by application of energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDXMA).

The unique characteristic of quickly altered but stable response by helminth parasites against metals and elements in a variety of aquatic ecosystems because of pollution conditions merit these as significant markers of fish health as well as of marine and freshwater ecosystems. Biomagnification of toxicants released in aquatic reservoirs by human mediated processes incorporating mining in coastal zones, industrial and agricultural inputs contributed to damaging consequences of human health due particularly to human consumption of edible fish and other biota that are exposed to contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. The metals and elements analysed could be arranged in decreasing order of concentration were found to be, P > Ca > Cd > Mn > Hg > Pb > As > Zn > S > Fe > Al > Cr > Mg > Cl. The association between Echinobothrium deeghai and Rotundocollarette capoori demonstrated surrogate relationship to drain in highly toxic heavy metals like Hg, Cr, As, Cd, from the ambience in the micro-environment of cestodes and nematodes and thus acted as benefactors for the life of the brackish water oceanodromous fish.