Thermal diffusivity by laser intensity modulation method (LIMM-TD): a novel technique for the determination of thermal diffusivities and conductivities and its application to porous PZT and silica samples.

A modification of a technique for the measurement of the thermal diffusivity of thin solid materials is presented. The technique is called Thermal Diffusivity by Laser Intensity Modulation Method (LIMM-TD). It is based on the measurement of the phase retardation of a thermal wave passing through the test material by means of a lead-zirconate-titanate ceramic (PZT) pyroelectric detector.

Calcite microcrystals in the pineal gland of the human brain: first physical and chemical studies.

A new form of biomineralization has been studied in the pineal gland of the human brain. It consists of small crystals that are less than 20 microm in length and that are completely distinct from the often observed mulberry-type hydroxyapatite concretions. A special procedure was developed for isolation of the crystals from the organic matter in the pineal gland.