000143   BISWAS B, AZYU A (Geography Dep, Mizoram (Central) Univ, Aizawl, Mizoram, Email: brototibiswas@gmail.com) : Water resources and management system of the Himalayan region: Case study of Mizoram, India. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 193-201.

The Himalayan region has been known as water abundant region in the form of innumerable natural water resources such as springs, streams, rivulets, etc. However, off late owing to climatic and anthropogenic reasons the entire region is soon turning into a water-deficit region leading to serious handicaps in undertaking the basic economic activities, affecting the diversity of livelihood and the drinking water sector. The problem becomes more acute in the dry season or non-monsoonal season. There seems to be a research void in the sustainable water resource planning of the Himalayan states. The present work is an attempt to study this research void through grass-root level analysis of the villages in Mizoram. Twelve villages of the Phullen RD block of Aizawl district, Mizoram were studied to understand the water supply and problems associated with water availability in the rural areas of Mizoram. In the villages of Mizoram, particularly the villages of the study area, Tuikhur or village spring source (VSS) and piped water supply constitute the main lifeline of water supply. Other sources of water include rainwater harvested and water taken from the stream or river. The springs which were once perennial have become seasonal owing to lack of spring shed management. Rainwater harvesting, barring inconsequential villages, is meagrely existent in this region of abundant rainfall with almost 130 days of rainfall. In the absence of proper water resource planning, there is a huge deficit of water every month with the average requirement of the study area being 2,49,148 gallons per month with a supply of just 2,14,248 gallons per month. However, water surplus was also observed in villages having a proper water management system in the form of rainwater harvesting and spring shed management.

6 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

000142   ZHAO B W, NAN X J, LI Y Q, LIU H, DUAN K X (Lanzhou Jiaotong Univ, Lanzhou- 730 070, P. R. China, Email: zhbw2001@sina.com) : Modelling sorption and leaching behaviour of sulphate in light sierozem (calcids) columns with rape straw biochar amendments with steady flow. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 185-92.

Biochar amendments could enhance retention of nutrients such as ammonium (NH4 + ), nitrate (NO3 - ), and phosphate (PO4 3-) in soils. However, the situation for sulphate (SO4 2-), which is an indispensable nutrient element for crop growth, is unclear. In this paper, the effects of biochar derived from rape (Brassica campesstris L.) straw at 600 °C on the sorption and leaching of SO4 2- in light sierozem (Calcids) was studied in columns, where biochar amendment rate, column soil height, solution pH value and initial sulphate concentration were selected as factors. It is shown that the transport of sulphate was a significant non-equilibrium process and the sorption and leaching curves (SLCs) of sulphate were asymmetrical. The breakthrough time would be increased by increasing biochar amendment and soil column height, and by decreasing solution pH value and initial sulphate concentration. The SLCs of bromide trace were fitted to determine dispersion coefficient (D) using equilibrium convection dispersion equation (CDEeq). The non-equilibrium (two-site) model (CDEnon-eq) with the results from CDEeq was used to simulate the transport processes of sulphate in the soil column, with good fitness, using software CXTFIT 2.1 fitting. The results could supply an implication for biochar application in loess areas.

5 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

000141   MOHANTY B, DAS A, MANDAL R, BANERJI U, ACHARYYA S (Sciences Dep, Pandit Deendayal Petroleum Univ, Gandhinagar- 382 007, Gujarat, Email: bibhabasu.mohanty@gmail.com) : Heavy metals in soils and vegetation from wastewater irrigated croplands near Ahmedabad, gujarat: risk to human health. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 163-75.

Heavy metal accumulation in soils, and subsequently, in vegetation by long-term wastewater irrigation has a potentially detrimental effect on humans via their transfer along the food chain. In this reconnaissance study the effects of wastewater irrigation on the accumulation of heavy metals (Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) in soils and vegetables from croplands along some ~60 km stretches of Sabarmati River, near Ahmedabad city were assessed. Geochemical factors associated with metals in the soil-water environment seem to regulate more the metal transfer (soil-to-vegetable) than the physiological factors associated with the vegetable’s types. The risk associated with the dietary intake of metal contaminated vegetables was quantified by Hazard Quotient (HQ). HQ was found to be very less sensitive on to the dietary intake pattern (e.g., leafy versus non-leafy vegetables) of the consumers. In contrast to low risk associated with Co, Cu, Ni and Zn with very low HQ values, high risk was found for Pb (HQ of ~6.1±0.6) followed by both Mn and Cr (HQ of ~1.0 ± 0.1). Based on the results on wastewater irrigation in the studied region, we suggest more efficient treatment of wastewater facilities and semi-decadal monitoring of heavy metal in vegetables grown under wastewater irrigated soils.

5 tables, 52 ref

000140   FANG Y X, LIU G J, LIU R J (Univ of Science and Technology of China, Hefei- 230 061, China, Email: 13956911439@163.com) : Fish community structure and ecological health assessment of the Shuaishui river basin, China. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 153-61.

The Shuaishui River originates from the southern mountainous area of Anhui Province and is an important water source for local residents. The ecological environment of this basin has been seriously damaged because of the effects of human disturbance. In August 2016, a field study of five units of the Shuaishui River Basin was conducted to understand the fish community structure and assess the ecological health status. A total of 43 fish species were collected from the entire river basin, and they belonged to 4 Orders, 10 Families, and 31 Genera. The maximum number of species belonged to the family Cyprinidae, and the main trophic guild was omnivorous fish. Among the five units, species number was the highest in unit 2 (27 species) and the lowest in unit 3 (12 species). The dominant species in the five units were mainly typical mountain-stream fish, such as Zacco platypus, Acrossocheilus fasciatus, and Vanmanenia stenosoma. In some areas, Varicorhinus barbatulus or Rhinogobius cliffordpopei also showed great dominance because of the impacts of the local habitat conditions. Redundancy analysis showed that altitude, water velocity, stream order, and water surface width were the main factors that influenced the distribution and species composition of the fish. Eigenvalues of the first two axes were 0.183 and 0.082 and explained 40.9% and 18.3% of the species-environment relationship variables, respectively. The ecological health of the five units and the entire basin was assessed based on the arithmetic mean of three indicators, namely, number of classification units, Shannon-Wiener index, and Berger-Parker dominance index. The results indicated that the ecological health status was relatively poor in unit 3, general in units 1 and 5, and good in units of 2 and 4. The status of the entire basin was general. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive assessment of the ecological health of the Shuaishui River Basin, and it has great significance for the ecological management and protection of this basin.

2 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

000135   AL-HARAHSHEH S T (Al al-Bayt Univ, Institute of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Email: sura@aabu.edu.jo) : Swimming pool water in Mafraq city in northern Jordan: Quality evaluation. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 85-92.

The objective of this study is to examine the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of swimming pool water in Mafraq city, north of Jordan and the overall quality of the used water. Three public swimming pools were selected from Mafraq city [Areef Pool (SW1), Teachers Club Pool (SW2) and Anakeel Pool (SW3)] to analyze the physical, chemical and biological properties of their water as well as determine their compliance with the Jordanian Standards for Swimming Pools Water. Sampling was carried out weekly for eight successive weeks between July and August 2019 before bathing (after disinfection) and after bathing and analysed in Al al-Bayt University and Ministry of Environment laboratories. The parameters used to evaluate the quality of water in swimming pools were temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), residual chlorine (Cl2), total organic carbon (TOC), trihalomethanes (THM), major cations and anions, selected heavy metals, and total coliform bacteria, E. coli and Pseudomonas. Most of the physical and chemical parameters analysed were within the recommended limit except for pH and EC. Residual chlorine exceeded the permissible limits in SW3 before and after bathing, recording mean values of pH, EC (4.3 ± 0.25 - 4.33 ± 0.44), (2314 ± 343 - 2453 ± 460), respectively. The dissolved oxygen was less than the recommended limit. Total coliforms, E. coli and Pseudomonas counts were < 1 before and after bathing in all the samples.

7 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

000134   AHMED F, FAKHRUDDIN A N M, FARDOUS Z, CHOWDHURY M A Z, RAHMAN M M, KABIR M M (Environmental Science Dep, Bangladesh Univ of Professionals, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Email: fowzia.ahmed@bup.edu.bd) : Accumulation and translocation of chromium (CR) and lead (PB) in chilli plants (Capsicum annuum l.) grown on artificially contaminated soil. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 63-70.

The current study is an endeavour to measure the bioaccumulation potentials of heavy metals in different parts of chilli plants (Capsicum annuum L.) grown in artificially contaminated soil with various concentrations of Cr and Pb. The concentrations of heavy metals were estimated by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) technique. The mean concentration of Cr and Pb accumulated in different parts of plants in high, medium, and low levels of contamination was in the following order: roots > leaves > shoots > fruits. Cr concentration in fruits was lower than that of the WHO standard. However, fruits grown on medium contaminated soil contained 0.695 mg/kg Cr which did not follow the safe guideline by SEPA. A significant amount of Pb was traced in fruits grown in highly contaminated soil that exceeded the standard limit set by FAO/WHO. Accumulation of Pb was higher than Cr at different levels of contamination in every part of the chilli plants. The transfer factor for Cr and Pd was found in the following order, leaves > shoots > fruits> roots and leaves > shoots > roots > fruits, correspondingly at every level of contamination. The bioconcentration factors were higher in Pb than Cr. The daily intake of metals in combination with health and carcinogenic risk indexes indicated that the edible parts of chilli plants are safe to consume as recommended by SEPA/WHO/FAO. The present study can be considered a reference for assessment and monitoring of heavy metals associated with human health risks in chilli plants at different industrially contaminated sites.

7 tables, 49 ref

000133   KANG H, GU J, LIU G, LI B, WANG W (Shaoxing Univ, Zhejiang, P. R. China, Email: wellswang@usx.edu.cn) : Performance and mechanism of layered double hydroxide to remove graphene oxide in aqueous solution. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 55-62.

Intending to remove toxic graphene oxide (GO) from wastewater, LDH (layered double hydroxide) was employed to recover GO by adsorption method. The adsorption performance and the mechanism of LDH for GO have been systematically studied by diverse characterization technologies and methods. The relevant effects of solution pH (2-9), absorbent dosage (5-25mg) and the concentration of GO (20-160mg/L) were investigated in detail. The main driving force of GO condensation on LDH may be electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding, SEM, TEM, AFM, FT-IR and XRD analysis further confirmed this. XPS test shows that the adsorption process is carried out through C−O and O−C=O. We have got a high removal rate of 92 % and an adsorption capacity of 1472 mg/g under an optimized conditions (pH = 3.0, equilibrium time = 6.0 h, dosage = 10mg, C0 = 160 mg/L). The analyses implied that LDH will be a very promising candidate for recovery of GO from wastewater.

7 illus, 30 ref

000132   HERAT S (Griffith Univ, Queensland- 4111, Australia, Email: s.herat@griffith.edu.au) : E-Waste management in Asia pacific region: Review of issues, challenges and solutions. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 45-53.

Proper management of used electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), known as e-waste, is causing a significant challenge for many countries around the world. United Nations estimate that the world generated 53 million metric tonnes (Mt) of e-waste in 2019, mostly from the Asian region. Poor handling of e-waste can cause severe environmental and human health issues due to the toxic compounds in e-waste. E-waste also contains valuable metals worth recovering. Environmentally sound management (ESM) of e-waste is either absent or limited in developing countries due to the informal recycling sector’s dominance. Many countries are in the process of developing regulations based on extended producer responsibility (EPR) concepts. This paper aims to review the current status, issues, and challenges faced by Asia Pacific countries and suggest a way forward for the ESM of e-waste.

3 tables, 28 ref

000131   MA W, SUN D, DENG Y, MENG X, LI M (Henan Huaxia Construction Management Co. Ltd, Zhengzhou- 450 053, China, Email: zzsdz1977@outlook.com) : Analysis of carbon emissions of prefabricated buildings from the views of energy conservation and emission reduction. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 39-44.

As a pillar industry with high energy consumption and low efficiency, the building industry of China has produced consistently high carbon emission levels in recent years. The important goals in the coordinated development of this industry include the large-scale development of green buildings, the use of energy technologies to reduce carbon emissions, and an effective reduction of carbon intensity. Prefabricated buildings have become popular in this industry due to their low energy consumption, emission, and pollution and environment-friendly nature. This paper examines those factors that influence the carbon emissions from the construction of prefabricated buildings across three phases, namely, production in plants, logistics transportation, and assembly construction, builds an evaluation index system for studying the carbon emissions in the materialization phase of prefabricated buildings, and employs the hierarchical fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to construct an evaluation model. Results show that the overall energy consumption of prefabricated buildings is lower than that of traditional concrete pouring-type buildings. The hierarchical fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model is scientific and reasonable when used to measure the comprehensive benefits of carbon emissions from prefabricated buildings. By taking a project in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province as an example, the comprehensive evaluation results show that the carbon emissions of this project are at moderate levels. The carbon emissions from prefabricated buildings can be reduced by expanding the market scale of the building industry, adjusting its use of building materials, and setting up special funds for these buildings. The findings of this work provide a certain reference value for analysing the differences between prefabricated and traditional buildings in terms of their carbon emissions in the materialization phase, for evaluating how the carbon emissions of the former can be reduced, and for formulating and executing building emission reduction plans.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

000130   PAL M, GOPE M, BASU A, LAHA T, MASTO R E, LABAR R, KUNDU T K, HOQUE R R, KHILLARE P S, BALACHANDRAN S (Environmental Studies Dep, Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan- 731235, West Bengal, Email: s.balachandran@visva-bharati.ac.in ) : Indoor quality of residential homes and schools of an industrial area in asansol: Characterization, bioaccessibility and health risk assessment of potentially toxic elements. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 13-28.

Bioaccessibility of eight potentially toxic elements (PTEs), their human exposure and health risk assessments were determined in the indoor dust of residence and schools from the Asansol Industrial area, India. The PTEs concentrations were maximum during the winter both at houses and schools. The average PTEs concentrations throughout the year in Asansol were 3.16, 120, 156, 41708, 2354, 61.3, 115 and 345 mg.kg-1 for Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn respectively. X-ray powder diffraction indicated an abundance of quartz in the indoor dust. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated multiple sources such as traffic, industries, and lithogenic sources for PTEs in indoor dust. Percentage of bioaccessibility was maximum for Cd (55.3 % throughout the year). Total PTEs concentration and a bioaccessible fraction of PTEs both were used for health risk assessment, and non-carcinogenic health risk was <1 for total PTEs and the bioaccessible fraction of PTEs. Health risk of total PTEs’ (HItotal) for Mn was high for both children and adult (6.76E-01 and 1.3E-01, respectively). Monte Carlo simulation model indicated that all the cumulative probability of Hazard Quotient (HQ) for collectively eight metals was below 1.

6 illus, 5 tables, 71 ref

000129   WANG F, ZHANG H, DU M, LI J, YANG P, YU T, WANG Y, QU C (Xi’an Shiyou Univ, Xi’an 710065, P. R. China, Email: xianquct@163.comm) : Effects of TiO₂/bentonite on the pyrolysis process of oily sludge. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2021, 20(1), 1-12.

Oil sludge is one of the major industrial solid wastes from petroleum production and refining. Implementing the harmless and resource treatment of oily sludge is an urgent problem to be solved. In this paper, TiO2/bentonite was prepared by sol-gel method, which was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and then used in the pyrolysis process of oily sludge. The addition of TiO2/bentonite give the best quality of pyrolysis oil; maximum oil recovery was achieved when setting the pyrolysis condition at 420 °C for final pyrolysis temperature, 3 h for reaction time, 10 °C/min for heating rate, 100 mL/min for nitrogen flow rate and 1 % for catalyst dosage. Compared with the non-catalyst, oil recovery rate can be increased from 76.06 % to 84.16 %, the oil content of the residue decreased from 2.23 % to 1.36 %. The pyrolysis recovery oil was analysed by GC-MC, and the fractions of pyrolysis oil C6-C15 were increased by 27.84 %. This shows that the addition of TiO2/bentonite decreased the carbon residue, increased oil recovery and improved product quality.

18 illus, 6 tables, 47 ref

000015   PATADE V Y, SINGH N, BALA M (Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Research Field Station, Pithoragarh- 262 501, Uttarakhand) : Agalope javana: Threat for ghingaru (Pyracantha crenulata), an economically important Himalayan medicinal plant. Natl Acad Sci Lett 2021, 44(1), 67-9.

Ghingaru also known as Indian Hawthorn (Pyracantha crenulata) is an economically important wild edible, medicinal shrub of Rosaceae family endemic to temperate Himalaya. Fruits of the plant have cardiotonic properties and useful in myocardial weakness and hypertension. Ghingaru plant being hardy, no major insect pests and disease are reported to cause economic damage till recently. However, during the month of July 2016 and in subsequent years, heavy infestation by larvae of an insect pest taxonomically identified as Agalope javana was observed in the border district of Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand. The larvae voraciously fed initially on leaves and then on fruits leading to complete loss of foliage and fruits from the infested plants. The larvae were reared inside laboratory to study complete life cycle of the insect. Review of published scientific literature suggests that the present correspondence is the first report on infestation by the insect larvae on Ghingaru and other plants in Western Himalaya. It is necessary to investigate the reasons for the insect pest outbreak on the economically important medicinal plant. Further integrated pest management system needs to be developed for sustainable management of the insect.

4 ref

000012   ASTHANA A K, SAHU V (CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow- 226 001) : A New Variety of Paraleucobryum (Lindb. ex Limpr.) loeske from western Himalaya, India. Natl Acad Sci Lett 2021, 44(1), 55-7.

During the course of intensive exploration of the Govind Wild Life Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya, some interesting specimens of genus Paraleucobryum (Lindb. ex Limpr.) Loeske have been identified. A critical morpho-taxonomic study of these plants has revealed its close resemblance with P. enerve (Thed.) Loeske; however, it differs from this species in smaller size of plants, larger leaves and strongly falcato-secund rather hooked leaves with ragged appearance and hence designated here as a new variety of P. enerve namely: Paraleucobryum enerve var. secundum var. nov.

8 illus, 7 ref

000004   ROSLAN A A, MOHAMAD S B, TAYYAB S (Malaya Univ, Kuala Lumpur- 506 03, Malaysia) : Docking evaluation of the interaction between green tea active ingredient, l-theanine and human serum albumin. Natl Acad Sci Lett 2021, 44(1), 17-9.

Interaction of one of the green tea active ingredients, L-theanine with the major transport protein of human blood circulation, human serum albumin (HSA) was investigated using molecular docking analysis. Site-specific docking simulation suggested binding preference of L-theanine to Site 1 of HSA. The binding site is proposed to be a cleft surrounded by both polar and nonpolar residues. L-Theanine binds to the protein through hydrophobic interactions as well as hydrogen bonds formed between Lys residues (195 and 199) of HSA and L-theanine.

17 ref

000003   BAHUKHANDI A, RAWAT S, JUGRAN A K, BHATT I D, RAWAL R S (National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Almora- 263 643, Uttarakhand) : Seasonal variation in phenolics and antioxidant activity of Acorus calamus linn.: An important medicinal plant of himalaya. Natl Acad Sci Lett 2021, 44(1), 13-5.

Total phenolics and antioxidant activity varied significantly (p < 0.05) throughout the year, and phenolic content was found to be 1.5 to 2.0 fold higher in the preparation of senescence stage than the vegetative stage, while antioxidant activity was 1.5 to 3.0 fold higher in flowering and fruiting stage than the shoot bud bursting stage. The biochemical attributes such as phenolics (9.11 mg GAE/g), tannins (26.0 mg TAE/g) and FRAP antioxidant activity (5.86 mM AAE/100 g) were exhibited maximum in October. However, radical scavenging activity (ABTS 27.51; DPPH 6.66 mM AAE/100 g) was found higher in July. The climatic variables, like temperature showed positive (p < 0.01) relationship with DPPH activity (r = 0.523) and rainfall with ABTS activity (r = 0.534). Total phenolic content showed a significant (p < 0.01) relationship with antioxidant activity (ABTS r = 0.307; DPPH r = 0.304). The study concluded that October month was suitable for harnessing maximum natural bioactive constituents.

8 ref

044099   IRFANA PP , HAMEED P Z (Economics Dep, Calicut Univ, Aranattukara, Thrissur, Kerala) : Finance commissions and horizontal devolution in India: An analysis of major states by income categories. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(1), 180-4.

The study attempts to sketch the devolution of resources from the Centre through Finance Commissions to the fifteen major States of India. Expenditure for developmental processes of the States are mainly met from States’ own revenue and from the share of the States in the divisible pool. Devolution from the Centre plays a major role in materialising the developmental needs of the States and is a major determinant of the overall development of States. Allocation of these funds are in accordance with the criteria employed by the Finance Commissions and the criteria itself has changed over the years. This can have impact on states, and this impact need not be uniform across the States. Hence, component wise devolution over the 11^th, 12^th and 13^th Finance Commissions and the role of federal transfers in bridging the development gap and in enhancing equity among the states is examined here. Attempt is made in this regard to analyze the devolution to the States by categorising of the States into High Income (HI), Middle Income (MI) and Low Income (LI) on the basis of their per capita income.

3 tables, 7 ref

044086   LEWAL R , AMIN S (Judgment and Prosecution Dep, Paktia Univ, Gardiz, Afghanistan) : Land management problems and its effects on the post-conflict peace-building of Afghanistan. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(1), 128-30.

Afghanistan can improve its economy from property, especially land is considered very influential in the development of a country. But that is only possible when a county has up-to-dated legal and policy regime for property security. A good legal framework helps Afghanistan to bring more foreign investment, privatize public land and revenues from taxation regarding land are core blueprints for the economic, social development and peace building processes. These moves are only possible if Afghanistan reform its property regulations.

15 ref

044069   ERNEST T , AGIOBENEBO T J , OKOWA E (Economics Dep, Port Harcourt Univ, Nigeria) : Financial liberalization and economic growth in selected lower-middle income and upper-middle income countries of Africa, 1986 – 2017. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(1), 25-33.

Studies have shown that income level is key to the success of financial liberalization and in line with this we investigated the impact of financial liberalization on economic growth between upper middle income countries and lower middle income countries in Africa from 1986 – 2017. Secondary data were obtained from the World Bank data catalog and other journals. The study employed the Im, Pesaran and Shin (IPS) panel unit root to explore the stochastic properties of each series in the model and the Pool Mean Group (PMG)/Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) estimation for dynamic panel analysis and found that financial liberalization has had positive and significant effect on economic growth in upper-middle and lower-middle income countries. The study conclude that financial reforms enhance economic growth and thus recommend that more rational financial liberalization policies should be pursued by these countries so as to boost investors’ confidence for them to bring in the much needed capital required for investment which ultimately would translate to more growths in their economies; proper sequencing of financial reforms and these reforms should be designed in line with needs of an economy, among others.

6 tables, 47 ref

041959   RESHMA H, JAYALAKSHMI R (Public Health and Community Medicine Dep, Central Univ of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala- 671316, Email: jayalakshmirajeev@cukerala.ac.in) : Prevalence of acute pesticide poisoning among pesticide applicators in cardamom plantations: A cross-sectional study from Idukki District, Kerala. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2020, 24(3), 188-93.

Pesticide poisoning is a burning occupational health issue across the world. The pesticide use in the cardamom plantations of Idukki district, Kerala, India is one of the world’s highest. However, limited studies addressed its ill effects on the health of pesticide applicators. To assess the magnitude of acute pesticide poisoning (APP) among pesticide applicators and understand the nature of severity based on their occupational characteristics. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018. A total of 300 pesticide applicators with minimum 1‑year experience (79.3 % males) were selected from 30 randomly selected cardamom plantations in Udumbanchola Taluk. WHO Field Surveys of Exposure to Pesticides Standard Protocol and Murphy’s method of Farmer Self‑Surveillance system of pesticide poisoning were used for assessing pesticide exposure and APP, respectively. Statistical analysis used: Descriptive (frequencies) and exploratory statistical analyses (Pearson’s Chi‑square test) were done using IBM SPSS 23.0. The prevalence of APP in this study was 100 % as all the pesticide applicators reported at least one sign and/or symptom of APP. The mild APP was more prevalent (80.7 %), followed by moderate (18.7) and severe (0.60). Decrease in duration and frequency of spraying, use of motor pump sprayer, safe storage and disposal of pesticides, and proper personal hygiene were found to reduce the severity of APP All the pesticide applicators in cardamom plantations of Idukki are at risk of APP. It is important to train them about the measures to prevent the same.

7 tables, 18 ref

041950   WLAZLO L, NOWAKOWICZ-DEBEK B, CHMIELOWIEC-KORZENIOWSKA A, MAKSYM P, PAWLAK H, KAPICA J (Life Sciences Univ, Akademicka 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland, Email: bozena.nowakowicz@up.lublin.pl) : Assessment of the level of organic dust and mould spores in the work environment of baker. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2020, 24(3), 137-41.

This study was conducted to determine the level of fungal contamination of the air in bakeries to assess health hazards for workers. Six bakeries producing traditionally baked goods were selected for the study. After a background survey, samples of exhaled air were collected to test for fungal aerosols. The inhalable and respirable fraction in the bakery air environment was measured by the gravimetric method. All data analyses were performed using Statistica software (v 8.0). The mean concentration of fungi and particles in the bakeries did not exceed the recommended levels. The air in the bakeries had a low level of microbial contamination. The identified fungi included biological agents from hazard group 2. Proper employee training and the introduction of preventive measures (including both individual and group protection) can significantly reduce employees’ exposure and thus their occupational risk.

2 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

043526   KUNDAN P , KUNDAN S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Government Degree Coll, Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir) : Diversity of trees in environmental park, raika, (shivalik Hills), in the union territory of Jammu (J&K) India. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(3), 97-102.

In the present study, an inventory of trees has been prepared in Environmental Park, Raika in Jammu region of J&K Union Territory, India. A Total of 75 tree species belonging to 53 genera and 33 families have been recorded from the study area. Out of which 51 tree species were native while 24 tree species were introduced. Among the different genera present in the study area, Ficus was represented by 8 species, Acacia by 5 species, while Bambusa, Cassia, Eucalyptus & Terminalia have been represented by 3 species each Bauhinia, Salix & Stercularia have been represented by 2 species each and rests of genera were represented by 1 species each. Moraceae has been observed to be the dominant family with 10 species followed by Fabaceae with 9 species; Meliaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Myrtaceae & Euphorbiaceae (4 species each); Poaceae, Bignoniaceae, Salicaceae & Combretaceae (3 species each); Mimosaceae, Boraginaceae, Leguminosae, Ulmaceae & Sterculiaceae (2 species each) & remaining families have been represented by 1 species each.

2 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

045278   DRAOUET C, HAMAIDIA K, BRAKNI A, BOUTEMEDJET S, SOLTANI N (Mohamed Cherif Messaadia Univ, Souk-Ahras, Algeria, Email: k.hemaidia@univ-soukahras.dz) : Ethanolic extracts of Borago officinalis l. affect growth, development and energy reserve profile in the mosquito Culex pipiens. J Ent Res 2020, 44(2), 203-10.

Ethanol extracts of leaves and flowers from Algerian Borago officinalis L. (Polemoniales: Boraginaceae) were evaluated against fourth instar larvae (L4) of Culex pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae). The larvicidal bioassay revealed that leaves extracts (LC₅₀ = 2.49 %) exhibited higher activity than flowers extracts (LC₅₀ = 2.55 %) against L4. Moreover, females were found more sensitive compared to males (sex-ratio was skewed towards males). On the other hand, the flower extract caused marked delayed effects on growth (decrease of female weight) and development (increase in duration of larval and pupal stages). The biochemical analyses showed a decrease in carbohydrate and lipid contents and an increase in protein levels in all tested stages (L4, pupa and adults male and female), with more significance in females.

2 illus, 3 tables, 53 ref

045277   DRAOUET C, HAMAIDIA K, BRAKNI A, BOUTEMEDJET S, SOLTANI N (Mohamed Cherif Messaadia Univ, Souk-Ahras, Algeria, Email: k.hemaidia@univ-soukahras.dz) : Ethanolic extracts of Borago officinalis L. affect growth, development and energy reserve profile in the mosquito Culex pipiens. J Ent Res 2020, 44(2), 203-10.

Ethanol extracts of leaves and flowers from Algerian Borago officinalis L. (Polemoniales: Boraginaceae) were evaluated against fourth instar larvae (L4) of Culex pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae). The larvicidal bioassay revealed that leaves extracts (LC50 = 2.49 %) exhibited higher activity than flowers extracts (LC50 = 2.55 %) against L4. Moreover, females were found more sensitive compared to males (sex-ratio was skewed towards males). On the other hand, the flower extract caused marked delayed effects on growth (decrease of female weight) and development (increase in duration of larval and pupal stages). The biochemical analyses showed a decrease in carbohydrate and lipid contents and an increase in protein levels in all tested stages (L4, pupa and adults male and female), with more significance in females.

2 illus, 3 tables, 53 ref

045270   BANERJEE N, RAMAMURTHY S S, GANESH K M, JINDAL T, SHUKLA K (Amity Univ, Noida- 201 301, Uttar Pradesh) : Review paper on surface water-quality assessment of Chitravati river after the establishment of checkdam in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh. J Ecophysiol Occup Health 2020, 20(3&4), 209-21.

Puttaparthi is a birthplace of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and is a small town situated in the district of Anantapur, in Andhra Pradesh. Chitravathi River is the main water-body in Puttaparthi. The river remained dry for many years. Only in the recent years, rainfall events fed water to the river. Last year in 2019 a check-dam was also constructed in Puttaparthi due to which the river water has been stagnant. This review paper aims to assess the surface water quality of the Chitravati River in Puttaparthi after the establishment of the check-dam. In this regard, literature reviews were performed and the paragraphs in the literature reviews were arranged as per three major themes, which are: 1. check-dams, 2. water-quality assessment and monitoring, and 3. non-perennial river systems. By examining these three themes through the literature reviews, key inferences were made. For instance, it can be understood that the check-dam in Puttaparthi is an important water-storage structure, which is likely to have both positive and negative impacts upon the nearby region. Secondly, in order to examine water-bodies like the Chitravati River in Puttaparthi, we have to perform water quality assessment and monitoring. To perform water quality assessment and monitoring for the Chitravati River in Puttaparthi; we have to use important tools like the Water Quality Index (WQI), Water Pollution Index (WPI), and Water Poverty Index (WPI). Thirdly, non-perennial river systems such as intermittent rivers, ephemeral rivers and their key features have been stressed upon by several readings. These are river systems where a river ceases to flow for some months or for several years. The Chitravati River in Puttaparthi can be appropriately classified as a non-perennial river system and as an intermittent river. Finally, this review paper concludes through a personal reflection, which stresses upon studying the Chitravati River in Puttaparthi and how the literature reviews will help in this regard.

50 ref

045261   RACHMAT B, DASUKI, MANALU H S P, ELSI E (National Institute of Research and Development, Jakarta, Indonesia, Email: basukir2009@gmail.com) : Blood lead levels and their relationship with lead in ambien air in children in the area of used leadacid battery in Depok City, Indonesia. J Ecophysiol Occup Health 2020, 20(3&4), 145-54.

The informal Used Lead-Acid Battery (ULAB) activities impact air pollution from smoke, dust, and waste containing lead. This study aims to determine the effect of air lead concentration on Blood Lead Levels (BLLs) in children aged 7-13 years in the informally ULAB area in the city of Depok. This study uses secondary data from the 2014 Special Research on Environmental Pollution for Traditional Battery Processing conducted by the National Institute of Research and Development. Cross-sectional study design, the study population was children aged 7-13 years in selected ULAB areas, with a total sample of 94 people. Each respondent took a venous blood sample and measured it with a portable blood lead gauge. The concentration of lead in the air was measured using a High Volume Air Sampler and analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. Normality test on BLLs and lead variables in the air. Linear regression test to determine the relationship between lead variables in the air and BLLs. The respondents’ average BLLs were 8.58 µg/dL, with intervals of 3.8 - 14.6 µg/dL. There was a strong relationship (r = 0.777) and statistically significant (p = 0.000) between air lead levels and BLLs. It has a lively pattern equation, meaning that if the lead level in the air increases, the BLLs will increase. Although BLL in children is still below World Health Organization (WHO) recommended, there needs to be measured to prevent children from being exposed to lead, because low BLLs for long periods can endanger children’s health.

2 illus, 2 tables, 46 ref

045260   SINGH T, SUMAN S, RASHMI M, SINGH A (TPS Coll, Patna– 800 001, Bihar, Email: tanujapatnabotany@gmail.com) : Biodegradation of Di-(2-Ethylhexyl Phalate) by Bacillus antracis (Accession no. KJ085972.1). J Ecophysiol Occup Health 2020, 20(3&4), 140-4.

DEHP is one of the most broadly used PAEs (Phthalic Acid Esters) as a plasticizer in Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) manufacturing. The DEHP and its other monoester metabolites are considered as very harmful for animal and human and affect the endocrine system. The strain isolated in this study is very efficient in degrading the DEHP. The degrading bacterial strain Bacillus anthracis is used in this study to determine the biological degradation potential of DEHP. Bacteria play very important roles in DEHP degradation in the environment under various conditions. The selected strain in for DEHP degrading bacteria designated as strain T-10 is optimized at the different conditions for its maximum activity at different temperatures, pH, chemicals like carbon and nitrogen source identified with degradation potential of more than 85 %.

9 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

045259   KASHYAP P, RIZVI A N, UNIYAL V P (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun– 248 001, Uttarakhand, Email: 11priyankakashyap@gmail.com) : Assessment of soil physicochemical properties along an altitude gradient in high altitude region of Gangotri national park, Uttarakhand, India. J Ecophysiol Occup Health 2020, 20(3&4), 134-9.

The present study was undertaken in the sub-alpine and alpine region of Gangotri valley of Gangotri National Park (GNP) in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. Results showed that selected soils were sandy loam (83 %) throughout the region. Soil reactions (pH) vary from 5.00 – 6.28 and showed acidic to the slightly neutral condition. The mean soil Nitrogen (N), and Phosphorus (P) content were calculated 0.37 ± 0.02 % and 0.35 ± 0.02 %. The value of NP first increased and then decreased along the elevation. Nitrogen and Phosphorus values ranged from 0.01-0.73 and 0.13-0.87. The correlation analysis among the different soil parameters showed that Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) was positively correlated with soil moisture(r = 0.661, p = 0.038); Phosphorus (r = 0.794, p = 0.006) and Nitrogen (r = 0.964, p = 0). SOC and soil moisture increases at the middle elevation (3400-3500 m and 3700-3800 m) and further decreases along the elevation. This may be explained as the impact of long term human influence and altering the natural habitat in the form of a camping spot for trekkers at this elevation and presence of mixed forest (subalpine deodar, pine, and birch) at 3400-3500 m elevational range. This baseline information on soil parameters in Gangotri valley may further help in climate change study in the current scenario of global warming in relation with above ground vegetation and underground soil biota to understand the soil food web dynamics.

3 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

041488   AZHARI F A, JASMI N N, WAHAB M S A, JOFRRY S M, LEE K S, MING L C (Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Selangor Univ, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: ewan.pharmcare@gmail.com) : Students’ perceptions about social constructivist learning environment in e-learning. Indian J Pharm Edu Res 2020, 54(2), 271-8.

Pharmacy educators often incorporate electronic learning or e-learning to facilitate learning among pharmacy students. E-learning can be designed based on the Social Constructivism Theory (SCT). The learning outcomes of e-learning that is developed based on the SCT should be assessed continuously and they should include the evaluation of students’ perceptions on the Social Constructivist Learning Environment (SCLE) of their e-learning. The present study aims to investigate pharmacy students' expectations for their e-learning and evaluate the extent to which e-learning fulfils their expectations. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among the second- and third-year undergraduate pharmacy students in a Malaysian Public University to assess the students’ perceptions on the SCLE of two e-learning components offered in two core courses: Principle of Pathology (PP) and Pharmaceutical Care (PC) using the Constructivist Online Learning Environment Survey (COLLES). All students who were invited to participate in the study responded to the survey (response rate = 100 %, n = 336). In general, students had positive but moderate expectations and satisfaction towards e-learning. Students mostly expected e-learning to be relevant to their professional practice. The second-year PP students were satisfied with their e-learning, but the third year PC students rated their experience to be lower than their expectations. As a conclusion, although e-learning that was developed based on the SCT can resulted in SCLE, the expectations of the third-year pharmacy students were harder to fulfil compared to their younger counterparts. This warrants innovation in e-learning content and processes for the third-year students.

4 tables, 27 ref

046573   SINGH J, DHUPPER R, SHARMA S (Amity Institute of Environmental Science, Noida- 201 303, Email: jaggy1964@gmail.com) : Survey of ethnomedicinal plants used by indigenous people of Nerwa range, Chopal forest division, Himachal Pradesh, India. Med Plants 2020, 12(3), 381-91.

The present study was conducted to document the traditional knowledge on ethnomedicinal plants used by people of Nerwa range, Chopal forest division of Himachal Pradesh. Information on these plants was collected from 105 persons including traditional healers of 13 different villages through semi-structured interview during 2017. A number of 56 ethnomedicinal plants was recorded from the region belong to 42 families consist of 13 tree, 13 shrub, 26 herb, one fern, two climber and one fungal species. The most commonly used family were Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Rosaceae, Acanthaceae, Capparaceae, Fagaceae, Ranunculaceae, Utricaceae and Zingiberaceae. Various plant parts such as roots, leaves, rhizomes, bark, and whole plant etc. were used for medicinal purposes. Of these, the most used part for medicinal purpose was roots (23 %) followed by leaves (18 %) and rhizomes (14 %). It was observed that 54 % informants interviewed did possess knowledge about the ethnomedicinal plants, which is clear manifestation of increasing inclination towards medicinal plants use. During the present study 56 medicinal plants were described in detail with their botanical name, local name, family, habits, parts used, habitat, mode of consumption and ethnobotanical usage.

3 illus, 2 tables, 77 ref

045159   RAJU P V S, MISHRA A, SUNDARI A B T (Amity Univ, Rajasthan, Jaipur) : Indian summer monsoon features in the NCEP analysis and forecast system. J Earth Syst Sci 2020, 129(1), 10.1007/s12040-020-01487-w.

The diagnosis of the summer monsoon features over India are investigated using global analysis and forecast system (GFS) of the National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP). In addition, the performance of the NCEP GFS model in capturing the observed rainfall variability of the summer monsoon features over India through diagnostic parameters. We delineate the variability between two normal monsoon seasons with basic meteorological fields and significant parameters of kinetic energy, heat and moisture budgets. The 1200 UTC operational analyses and forecasts (day1 through day 5) data for summer monsoon seasons of June, July, August and September (JJAS) of 2010 and 2011 are considered. Although both are normal monsoon seasons with seasonal rainfall (JJAS) departure of about −3.1 % and 2.1 % respectively, during 2010 and 2011, some differences are observed in the spatial distribution of rainfall. The diagnostic fields reasonably reproduced the variations in analyses and forecast fields of up to 5 days. The model forecasts of day1 delineated that the Indian summer monsoon features are well captured, whereas in day 3 and day 5, forecast depicts some differences. Overall the NCEP analysis and forecast fields not only produces mean monsoonal flow, but also captures seasonal variability realistically. This is evident from the large-scale balances represented by the analyses and model forecasts.

21 ref

046554   SALAMON I, KRYVTSOVA M, HRYTSYNA M (Ecology Dep, Presov Univ, Presov, Slovakia, Email: ivan.salamon@unipo.sk) : Chemical and phyto-therapeutically properties of essential oils from three Juniperus species. Med Plants 2020, 12(2), 220-6.

Juniper species typically grow in rocky, infertile soils, in fields, meadows, pastures, open woods and other settings, almost from sea level to alpine sites. Juniper species are shrubs found in different several forms, up to a height up to 2.0 m. Juniper berries contain essential oil and have been used in several medical ailments. In this study, essential oils from the mature fruit essential oils of three different juniper species: Juniperus communis L. (Common Juniper), Juniperus oxycedrus L. (Prickly Juniper) and Juniperus sabina L. (Savin Juniper) are presented. The GC-MS profiles of qualitative and quantitative composition of the essential oil showed mostly of monoterpenes including α-pinene, β-myrcene, and sabinene. The pharmaceutical properties of these active constituents are also discussed.

2 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

046550   MAROYI A (Biodiversity Dep, Limpopo Univ, Sovenga- 0727, South Africa, Email: alfred.maroyi@gmail.com) : Chemical properties, biological activities and ethnobotanical uses of Citrullus naudinianus (Sond.) Hook. f.: An indigenous melon species of South Africa. Med Plants 2020, 12(2), 182-91.

Citrullus naudinianus (Sond.) Hook. f. is a perennial herb collected from the wild for its edible fruits and also used as traditional medicine. This study was aimed at evaluating the chemical properties, biological activities and ethnobotanical uses of C. naudinianus. The fruit, leaf, root, stem and tuber infusions and/or decoctions of C. naudinianus are mainly used as thirsty quencher and ethnoveterinary medicine, and traditional medicine for sores, wounds, cancer, gonorrhoea and inflammatory diseases. Phytochemical compounds identified from the species include cucurbitacins, alkaloids, anthraquinones, coumarins, flavonoids, saponins and triterpenoids. Ethnopharmacological research revealed that C. naudinianus extracts have antibacterial, antioxidant, antiprotease, immunomodulatory, HIV-1 RT inhibition and cytotoxicity activities. Future research on C. naudinianus should focus on the possible biochemical mechanisms of both the crude extracts and identified phytochemical compounds including toxicological, in vivo and clinical studies to corroborate the traditional medicinal applications of the species.

2 illus, 2 tables, 96 ref

046541   KUMARI A, GULERIA I, PATHANIA D, NISHA, VERMA R (Shoolini Univ, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, Email: amitabot@gmail.com) : Phytochemicals analysis and antibacterial activity of leaf extracts of Populus ciliata Wall. ex Royle. Med Plants 2020, 12(1), 120-9.

This research deals with the study of phytochemical analysis of methanol and chloroform extracts of Populus ciliata leaves and their further screening for antibacterial activity. The chemical profile of P. ciliata leaves revealed that both leaf extracts were rich in fatty acid esters, hydrocarbons and steroids. Methanol and chloroform extracts of P. ciliata leaves were observed with 44 and 47 major and minor phytocompounds, respectively. Major phytocompounds observed in the methanol extract were 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid, (Z,Z,Z)- (18.39 %), l-(+)-ascorbic acid 2,6-dihexadecanoate (13.95 %), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (7.41 %) and 3,6-dimethoxy-2,5-dinitrobenzaldehyde oxime (5.20 %) whereas, chloroform extract was dominating with l-(+)-ascorbic acid 2,6-dihexadecanoate (19.67 %), 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid, (Z,Z,Z)- (18.91 %), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (8.64 %), ethyl 9,12,15-octadecatrienoate (7.80 %) and hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (5.05 %). This study first time confirmed the antibacterial property of P. ciliata leaves with higher antibacterial activity of the methanol leaf extract against selected bacterial strains. Among all bacterial strains, methanol extract was found more effective against Gram negative bacteria (E. coli and P. aeruginosa; MIC- 0.78 mg/ml) than Gram positive bacteria, whereas the chloroform extract showed maximum activity against E. coli (MIC-1.56 mg/ml).

3 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

046538   LAL M, SAMANT S S, KUMAR R, SHARMA L, PAUL S, DUTT S, NEGI D, DEVI K (Himalyan Forest Research Institute, Panthaghati- 171 013, Email: dir_hfri@icfre.org) : Population ecology and niche modelling of endangered Arnebia euchroma in Himachal Pradesh, India - An approach for conservation. Med Plants 2020, 12(1), 90-104.

For the restoration and rehabilitation of a species, comprehensive information on the ecological elements and potential habitats are essentially required to the conservationists. This has necessitated initiating studies on habitat and population ecology of the threatened species. Keeping this in view, population ecology and niche modelling of endangered Arnebia euchroma in Himachal Pradesh was studied. Total 49 populations of A. euchroma were studied between 3325-4587 m amsl in the Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur districts of Himachal Pradesh. Most of the populations (25) were found in steep slope and fall in east, north, north-east, north-west, south, south-east, south-west and west aspects. Maximum populations (11) were represented in the east aspect, followed by north and west (9 each) and northeast and northwest (6 each) aspects. Among the populations, richness of shrubs ranged from 1-7 and herbs 4-36; total shrubs density 2-119 Ind 100 m^-2; total herbs density 460-7055 Ind 100 m^-2; Concentration of dominance for shrubs 0.26-1 and herbs 0.05-0.37 and Species diversity (H’) for shrubs 0.0-1.56 and herbs 1.26-3.29. Biological features, aspects, slope and pressure contributed to the critical population status of the A. euchroma. The particular geographical distribution (2022 km² ) under semi-arid conditions of the species indicated its habitat specificity. The present investigation revealed that A. euchroma populations showed fragmented pattern of distribution in the cold desert ecosystem. Therefore, re-introduction of A. euchroma in highly suitable habitat i.e., north-western gentle dry slope with high pH (alkaline soils) and low total nitrogen, moisture, carbon and organic matter is suggested.

3 illus, 2 tables, 96 ref

041303   RAJ B, KUMAR J, RAO V V L K (CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, Dhanbad, Jharkhand - 826 001, Email: beenu.cimfr@gmail.com) : Plastic/packaging waste separation from MSW and its conversion and used as value-added products in different applications: An eco-sustainable approach. Indian J Eng Mater Sci 2020, 27(2), 193-208.

Rapid urbanization and economic growth are affecting an exceptional increase in the production of municipal solid waste (MSW), including packaging waste globally. Nations have a comparatively higher GDP incline to generate vast quantities of MSW. Forecasts appearance that the production of MSW through main metropolitan will increase from 1.3 and 2.2 billion tons, respectively in the year 2012 and 2025¹. The recycling of plastic/packaging waste materials to produced value-added material is an essential aspect for scientific research worldwide because the attenuation natural resources make a risk in future. Waste of MSW is frequently a high source of many essential materials for recycling such as plastic, glass, metal and paper. Active management of MSW can allow reclamation of essential materials of recycling and decreases of harmful impact on the environment. The waste categorization is a crucial step in MSW or many kinds of wastes, such as packaging/plastic waste management for materials recycling. Worldwide researchers have been vigorously discovering automatic categorization methods for efficiently handling of growing amounts of MSW. This review article summarizes growths in separation techniques, conversion for plastic/packaging waste in value-added products and its uses that have taken place in the area of source segregated MSW recycling, including plastic/packaging waste in the last decade.

8 illus, 5 tables, 153 ref

046490   JAHANTIGH H, AMIRI S R (Dedesertification Dep, Higher Educational Complex of Saravan, Saravan, Iran, Email: hjahantigh5@gmail.com) : Growth indices of Kimiya cultivar of lentil in response to drought stress at flowering and pod filling stages under greenhouse conditions. Legum Res 2020, 43(4), 552-7.

Drought stress is one of the most important environmental factors which can limit the lentil production. To evaluate the effect of drought stress at flowering and pod filling stages on growth indices of lentil cultivar Kimiya (a new high yielding lentil cultivar for moderate cold and semi warm climate of Iran), an experiment was conducted at the research greenhouse of Higher Educational Complex of Saravan in completely randomized design with four replications. The drought stress was applied by withholding irrigation until the soil moisture reached to 20 % of field capacity at stages of flowering and pod filling. In this experiment, we measured grain yield per plant, growth indices including plant leaf area (PLA), relative growth rate (RGR), plant growth rate (PGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR). Results showed that the flowering stage in lentil plant is more sensitive to drought as exhibited significant decline in PLA, RGR, PGR and NAR. PGR declined at the end of growing season when vegetative growth stop, senescence of leaves, the reduction of NAR and the allocation of assimilate to the seeds.

5 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

043066   UPADHYAY R , KALA S P , SHUKLA M K (Graphic Era Hill Univ, Dehradun, Uttarakhand) : Development of small and medium scale enterprises in Uttarakhand: Problems and possibilities. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 07-9.

The present study was conducted during 2005 to 2010 at Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna University (A Central University) Uttarakhand to study the Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Uttarakhand with the objectives of to study the role, development status, financial status, growth and performance of small and medium scale industries in Utatrakhand. Micro small and medium enterprises are globally known as engine of economic growth and promoting equitable development. Its potential for generating employment and capability to start enterprise at a lesser cost has given it a primary importance in developed, developing and under developed economies. They plays an important role for a nation and regions to thrive by time. The individual’s mind needs to identify the entrepreneurial opportunity and convert them into possibility. They today face many challenges like access to affordable and adequate finance, non-availability of skill labour, lack of access to technology, inadequate marketing support and many more. The major problems considered by the research are the changing global environment, in updating their technical knowledge in this fast changing technical era, diminutive role of women entrepreneurs in managing the units, financial assistance and international support system.

1 table, 25 ref

041191   NANDY S, NAIK P R, NIRGUDE A (Community Medicine Dep, Yenepoya Medical Coll, Mangaluru, Karnataka - 575 018, Email: drpoonamnaik@gmail.com) : Swachh bharat swachhvidyalaya campaign: Situation analysis of select schools in Karnataka state, India. Indian J Comm Health 2020, 32(2), 432-7.

Swachh Bharat Swachh Vidyalaya (SBSV) campaign was launched to improve the health and hygiene status in schools of India, giving children a better opportunity to perform well overall. To assess the environment and sanitation status in select government schools as per Swachh Bharat Swachh Vidyalaya campaign guidelines. This descriptive study included 95 schools from Mangalore. The data abstraction tool was formulated using the SBSV campaign guidelines. The findings of this study showed that most schools (88 %) had gender segregated toilets and 93.8 % schools had regular sanitary napkins supply although 57.5 % of them did not have any appropriate provision for their disposal. There were no arrangements for solid waste disposal in 59 % of the schools. Majority of the schools (96.8 %) provided clean water for drinking. The study findings have implications in few key areas ensuring adherence to the campaign guidelines and promote health of the children.

2 tables, 12 ref

041164   VENKATESH N, KUMAR S (Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, Email: sumitsharma315@gmail.com) : Risky driving behaviour among the motorized two-wheeler novice riders in Davanagere city, Karnataka- cross-sectional study. Indian J Comm Health 2020, 32(1), 133-6.

Road traffic accidents (RTA) account for more significant mortality and morbidity rates worldwide, resulting in considerable global burden. In Indi, motor vehicle accidents are one of the common reasons for mortality among young riders. The present study provides insight into different aspects of risky driving behavior from individual attitudes, and psychological factors like anger, mood, and emotions. A cross-sectional study was conducted among college students; findings from this study say young males are more involved in risky driving behavior. Number of males are involved in risky driving behaviour and mobile phone usage while riding is more significant the results focus on the role that risky driving behaviour plays in two-wheeler motor vehicle accidents and suggests the need for further research in this area of risky driving behaviour to improve road safety education and law enforcement policies that focus upon ensuring good driving behaviours.

2 tables, 8 ref

041084   PATEL R, RANA S (G.G.T. Univ, Banswara - 327 001, Email: patelreena2016@gmail.com) : Fresh water algal diversity-chlorophyceae from kagdi dam of District Banswara Rajasthan, India. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(2), 171-6.

Chlorophyceae represent a morphologically diverse group of photosynthetic organisms usually identified as green algae. This is the largest and heterogenous group of freshwater algae ranging in size from microscopic unicellular or coenocytic to large colonies and extensive filamentous forms. The Present study is a part of survey conducted on fresh water algal flora of Chlorophyceae in Kagdi Dam. The collections of algal samples were carried out during the month of July-August 2019 from different areas located in upstream and downstream of the Kagdi Dam. Samples were examined under microscope and identified in the laboratory of P.G. Department of Botany, S.G.G. Government College Banswara. The study revealed the presence of 15 different species of algae belonging to Clorophyceae. Thallus diversity of morphology ranges from non motile Chlorella to well organised thallus of Chara showing tendency towards tree habit, through coenobial Scenedesmus, Pediastrum and large colonies of Hydrodictyon to unbranched filamentous Spirogyra, Oedogonium.

2 tables, 22 ref

041074   QURESHI G, RATHOD J L (Studies in Marine Biology Dep, Karnatak Univ, Karwar - 581 303, Email: Afreensyed115@gmail.com) : Kaleidoscopic intertidal diversity profile of marine macro algae of Majali and Tilmati beaches, Karwar, West coast of India. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 85-97.

Majali is a hamlet in the Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka, India situated in coastal region called Kanara amidst Goa-Karnataka border. The village is a tourist destination for the beaches of Karwar, including Tilmati Beach ‘‘BLACK SAND BEACH” which supports a huge habitat for growth of Macroalgae. Seaweeds are economically as well as ecologically important source of Marine ecosystem.In this study, diversity and distribution of seaweeds along rocky shores of south Karwar coast has been examined. Samplings were carried out for Pre Monsoon, South West Monsoon and Post Monsoon at both the stations, in accordance to the environmental parameters during study period. A total of 40 species were collected from Majali and 23species from Tilmati throughout study period with the absence of Ulva and Chaetomorpha species, excessive algal growth of Brown algae and invasive Caulerpa species at Tilmati station.Temporal variability in various diversity indices were calculated by using PAST software. The work highlights upon the influence of environmental parameters as well as the geomorphological pattern of the rocky shore (boulders and Gravel bed) on composition and survival of seaweeds withstanding the submergence and emergence of the tidal amplitude. An updated checklist and distribution of seaweeds is mentioned with rocky shore analysis.

5 illus, 4 tables, 34 ref

041066   LAKHERA K, GURJAR P, VYAS V (Environment Science and Limnology Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal – 462 026, Email: kuldeeplakhera89@gmail.com) : Ecological status of riparian zone of sip River: A tributary of River Narmada in Central region. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 25-31.

Riparian zone is an interface between the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem which provides a variety of resources to the organisms. The present study was carried out on Sip River which is a tributary of River Narmada. During the study, QBR (Qualitat del Bosc de Ribera) index was used for the assessment of quality of riparian forest. It was observed that out of seven sampling stations, two stations were found in bad quality and extreme degradation on riparian habitat, three stations were found in Fair quality and strongly altered riparian habitat where as two Stations were found in Good quality and some disturbances were observed in these areas. The current status of riparian zone was due to human activities like construction, sand mining, soil mining, deforestation and expansion of crop land for agricultural activities. Livelihood dependence is the major cause of present condition of riparian zone.

4 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

041065   GURJAR P, LAKHERA K, VYAS V (Environment Science and Limnology Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal - 462 026, Email: parul.gurjar120591@gmail.com) : Ecological health assessment of River sip, a tributary of Central Indian River Narmada by using habitat assessment. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 17-23.

Habitat study is one of the most important tool for assessment of fish survival as it defines their health and abundance. The objective of this study is to assess the impairment of river ecosystem by the anthropogenic activities. For evaluating the aquatic health, physical habitat condition was taken as a tool. Sip River is a Tributary of River Narmada which is a Central Indian River, joining Narmada at right bank just upstream of Indira Sagar Reservoir. Seven sites were selected from the sip river. In the present study, the physical habitat condition was assessed by using Rapid Bioassessment Protocol (RBP’s) in terms of visual assessment. It is found in the study that the two sites are Optimal, two sites are suboptimal and three sites are Marginal. The change in land use pattern and increasing developmental activities near the banks is affecting the habitat of the organisms residing in the aquatic ecosystem.

3 tables, 14 ref

042830   RAO M R, ITAGI R K, SRINIVASAN TM (Yoga and Physical Sciences Div, Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (S-VYASA Deemed-to-be-Univ), Bengaluru - 560 019, Karnataka, Email: mansarao@gmail.com) : Efficacy of yoga in facilitating mindfulness among asymptomatic male cricket players. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(22), 2182–8.

Cricket scenario across the globe has undergone tremendous changes in the last two decades. Premier league designs have exposed the players to immense aggression, competitiveness, and expectations. To evaluate the efficacy of yoga in facilitating mindfulness among asymptomatic male cricket players. First-class domestic male cricket players in the age group of 18-35 years from the Karnataka State Cricket Association were randomized into yoga group n=40 and wait-list control group n=42. Players received the yoga module for five days/week for a duration of six weeks. Five-facet mindfulness questionnaire was given at baseline, immediate post-intervention, and a follow-up after six months of intervention. Group differences in the change in parameters over time was modelled using linear mixed-effects regression method using the lme4 package in R, as two groups were compared over three unevenly spaced assessment time points. Comparison of the model fit indicates a significant (p0.001) at either time or group, however, there was a significant interaction effect at T2 (immediate post-intervention) among all the facets. No significant interaction effect (group*time interaction) was found in the follow-up study. Regular practice of this yoga module may enhance the likelihood to maintain a state of mindfulness among the male cricket players. Integrating yoga into the competitive world of cricket appears to be promising in enhancing mindfulness. 

3 tables, 31 ref

042817   KUMAR S , DHANKHAR R (Environmental Sciences Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Univ, Rohtak, Haryana) : Assessment of change in soil properties before and after flooding due to the rainy season in Bhindawas wetland, Jhajjar, Haryana (India). Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(20), 2057–64.

The purpose of the present study was to determine the changes in soil properties before and after flooding due to the rainy season in Bhindawas wetland. A total of eighteen soil samples were collected from Bhindawas wetland, nine before and nine after flooding. Eighteen soil properties namely pH, electrical conductivity (EC), moisture content, exchangeable cations (sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium), organic matter, total nitrogen, C/N ratio, total phosphorus and heavy metals (iron, zinc, copper, lead, nickel, chromium and cadmium) were measured. Heavy metals were determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis were performed on soil properties data. Student t-test for independent variables showed that statistically significant variation occurred before and after flooding in soil properties namely, pH, moisture content, organic matter, total phosphorus, iron, zinc, lead and chromium. 85 % variance in soil properties was shown by the first five PCs. The first PC explained the variation of 40.4 %, which related to Zn, Fe, Mg, Ni, Cu and Pb soil parameters. Dendrogram of hierarchical cluster analysis shows the two clusters with five sub-clusters. The findings of this study strongly suggested that degradation due to water logging in the non-submerged area during the rainy season change the soil properties in the wetland. Presently, Bhindawas wetland is severely affected by various environmental problems. Results of this study will prove useful in the development of an effective management plan for the Bhindawas wetland by various agencies.

2 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

042805   KHAN I H, ANWAR S , MAKHDUM M S A , YASEEN M R (Economics Dep, Government Coll Univ Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan, Email: irfansial007@hotmail.com) : Household health inequality in Pakistan: A comparative analysis. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(19), 1917–26.

Subsistence of health inequalities explains that basic human right is not available to every person in the country. As everyone knows that health of newborn child and maternal health are reflections of any good economy. The Infant Mortality (IM) and Maternal Mortality (MM) are caused by the health inequality, and hence this study is the first attempt to measure health inequality with respect to IM and MM for the most affected country like Pakistan. On the basis of different income group across Punjab from the latest Human Development Index reports (HDI), data is extracted from primary household survey through Multi-stage technique for one year from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2018. Concentration index is utilized to calculate Health inequality. CI has value from -1 to +1. The negative value of CI signifies the fact that the IM is higher in lower quintile of wealth for all regions in Punjab. The results revealed existence of significant inequalities with respect to IM in Punjab. The Highest inequality with respect to IM and MM is observed in the DG Khan and Chakwal where lowest was observed in Sialkot. However, the high inequality in DG Khan was accompanied by high IM, while Sialkot experiences lowest levels of inequality with low mortality rates. It is concluded that inequality in the wealth creates inequalities in the health status in Punjab. The regional health policies and reforms can also play catalytic role in controlling the mortality rate as well as inequalities in mortalities at macro level in Pakistan.

6 illus, 6 tables, 25 ref

044711   PAPP D, MIZSER S, NAGY L, VIDIC A, SIMON E, TÓTHMÉRÉSZ B (Ecology Dep, Debrecen Univ, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary, Email: edina.simon@ gmail.com) : Changes in morphometric traits of ground beetles along urbanization gradients. J Insect Sci 2020, 20(1), 10.1093/jisesa/iez127.

Urbanization has a significant impact on abiotic and biotic factors in nature. We examined the morphometric characters of four carabid species (Abax parallelepipedus, Carabus scheidleri, Carabus violaceus, and Pterostichus oblongopunctatus) along urbanization gradients in and around the cities of Vienna (Austria) and Debrecen (Hungary). We found significant differences among urban, suburban, and rural areas in the parameters of antennomers, the maxillary palpus, the labial palpus, and the length of the tibia and the elytra of the carabids studied. We also found significant differences between males and females based on the parameters of antennomers, the maxillary palpus, the labial palpus, the femur, and the elytra. An interaction between urbanization and sex was found in the case of antennomers, the maxillary palpus, the labial palpus, the femur, and the elytra. Our findings suggested that in the cases of species from Carabini tribus the parameters of antennomers, the maxillary palpus, and the elytra could be useful for assessing the effects of urbanization because these morphometric characters responded sensitively to the environmental stress, whereas the most useful parameters are those of antennomers and the tibia for the species of Pterostichini tribus. Our findings also revealed that females are more sensitive to environmental stress than males.

4 illus, 3 tables, 54 ref

044657   SARMA S S S, JIMÉNEZ-SANTOS M A , NANDINI S, WALLACE R L (National Autonomous Univ of Mexico, CP-54090, Mexico, Email: sarma@unam.mx) : Review on the ecology and taxonomy of sessile rotifers (Rotifera) with special reference to Mexico. J Environ Biol 2020, 41(1), 3-12.

Although comprising <0.5 % of all the known species of Rotifera, sessile rotifers are an important component in freshwater ecosystems, especially shallow waterbodies. During the last eight decades, fewer than 80 publications have dealt specifically with sessile rotifers, while more than 7600 articles have focused on rotifers in general. In this work research on the sessile rotifers with emphasis on the Mexican fauna has been reviewed and some additional information on the new records has been included. Difficulties involved in collection and maintenance of sessile rotifers, as well as problems of identification and quantification have been considered. Published data on the ecology and taxonomy of this group has also been reviewed. There are 35 species of sessile rotifers from three families Atrochidae, Collothecidae, and Flosculariidae, but to that four more species in the planktonic family Conochilidae may be added, as recent molecular research indicates that this family lies within Flosculariidae. The inventory includes new records for Mexico and one poorly described species. The number of sessile rotifer species known from Mexico is still low considering the large number of shallow water bodies present in Mexico. Comments regarding the importance of substratum (macrophyte) type and the significance of physical structure in providing substratum for larval stages of sessile rotifers have been made

5 illus, 1 table, 75 ref

042627   PITAKPONG A (Environmental Health Dep, Phayao Univ, Thailand, Email: aompitakpong@gmail.com) : Effluent quality monitoring in petrol stations: Northern Thailand. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(1), 40 – 50.

To study the effluent water quality and to compare the number of additional services within the petrol stations. Effluent water quality of 22 petrol stations around the Ping River in Thailand was assessed. The effluent samples were collected by grab sampling method, analyzed the water quality index (pH, COD, SS, and O&G) in a laboratory, and compared the data of result analysis by mean and a percentage between the petrol stations with additional services and the petrol stations without additional services. The results of the research found that the petrol stations were only passed the standard criteria according to effluent quality of 45.45 percent. The data were separately analyzed according to the effluent quality index, the pH values passed the highest criteria of 90.91 percent, and the COD values passed the least criteria of 54.55 percent. Comparison of data between the additional services and the effluent quality within the petrol stations found that most of the petrol stations without additional services passed the standard criteria more than the petrol stations with additional services. Good effluent management should focus on additional services within stations, the future should study the knowledge and understanding of entrepreneurship, area, and determine the quantity of accessing those additional services. 

5 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

044642   BORO R C, JAYAKUMAR S (Ecology and Environmental Sciences Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Puducherry- 605 014, Tamil Nadu, Email: s.jkumar1@gmail.com) : Studies on enzymes Superoxide dismutase and Catalase in midgut of Samia ricini under thermal stress condition. J Ent Res 2020, 44(1), 87-91.

In the present study, 5th instar larvae on Samia ricini were subjected into temperature stress (31.2 ± 1 °C) every day for 5 hrs till mature stage to assess the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in midgut tissue of different eco-races of eri silkworm viz., Borduar, Titabar and Mendipathar. Over generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause midgut cellular damage as a result it might affect the growth and production of eri silkworm. The temperature stress resulted significant increase in the enzyme SOD and CAT which indicated a defence mechanism to protect cellular damage against ROS. The results also showed that ROS level increased significantly under temperature stressed condition, compared with control. The study confirmed that thermal stress can be responsible for cellular damage and to overcome such stress, SOD and CAT play a key role in protecting oxidative damage in midgut tissue of eri silkworm.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref