n. (in microscopy) the fixing of a specimen within a mass of firm material in order to facilitate the cutting of thin sections for microscopical study. The embedding medium, e.g. paraffin wax for light microscopy or Araldite for electron microscopy, helps to keep the specimen intact.
A group of fish with flattened fins making it look saucer-shaped. It has a long tail with at least 1 and up to 7 venomous spines. When stimulated the tail may flick across, either embedding the barb in the victim, or causing a severe laceration. Eight deaths (2 in Australia) have occurred world-wide, either from blood loss, venom effects or tetanus.... stingray
n. one of a series of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. Paraffin wax (hard paraffin), a whitish mixture of solid hydrocarbons melting at 45–60°C, is used in medicine mainly as a base for ointments and in microscopy for *embedding specimens. Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil formerly used as a laxative; combined with soft paraffin (white or yellow), it is used as an emollient, as a lubricating ointment for treating dry eyes, and to impregnate gauze dressings to prevent the fibres from sticking.... paraffin
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