047354   NADZIR N A A, ZAKARIA Z, ADZAHAN N M, MAYAKI A M (Medicine & Surgery of Farm & Exotic Animal Dep, , , Email: noraniza@upm.edu.my) : Antibiotic susceptibilities of biofilm producing bacteria isolated from horse wounds . Explor Anim Med Res 2020, 10 (1), 42 - 9.

The occurrence of wounds in horses is very high due to their flight instinct and the nature of their environment, however, the high risk of infection by environmental pathogens complicate the healing process with most wound becoming chronic. Biofilm formation has been identified as a major consequence of infected wound, implicated in chronic nonhealing wound. In this study, we demonstrated biofilm forming bacteria in horses wound and described their antibiotics susceptibility. Swab samples from wound of 30 horses were cultured and the biofilm forming potential of the bacteria isolate was assessed. The susceptibility of the biofilm state to ciprofloxacin (CIP), gentamycin (CN) and tetracycline (TE) were also determined. A total of 65 bacterial isolates were identified from the wound, of which 48 prominent bacteria isolates were tested for BFP with 8.3 % being strong biofilm formers, 6.3 % moderate, 68.7 % weak and 16.7 % non-biofilm formers. There was significantly (P<0.05) higher minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) for the three antibiotics tested against the biofilm formers than the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) required to inhibit the bacteria growth in their planktonic state. The MBEC was highest for the strong biofilm formers, follow by moderate and weak biofilm formers. CIP has the least MBEC for all the isolates tested. In conclusion, there is presence of bacteria biofilm in equine wound and irrespective of the type of biofilm formers, susceptibility to antibiotic is low as higher antibiotics concentrations is required to eradicate the bacteria in biofilm state.

4 tables, 44 ref

047353   GUPTA V, KANT V, SHARMA M (Chemistry Dep, Univ of Jammu, Jammu, (J&K) - 180 006, Email: vijayta1gupta@gmail.com) : Synthesis and in vitro assessment of zinc oxide nanoparticles for their antioxidant and antibacterial potentials . Explor Anim Med Res 2020, 10 (2), 124 - 33.

Nanoparticles have emerged as wonders of medicine. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have received much attention and are in the forefront of research. In present study, ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical method and they were in vitro evaluated for antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials. The suspension of different concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles were evaluated for different parameters on day 1, 30 and 60 after its preparations. The average size of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized in this study was in the range of 73-87 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.578. ZnO nanoparticles scavenge different in vitro free radicals (ABTS, DPPH, superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide) in concentration dependent manner. The percent inhibitions and IC50 values of ZnO nanoparticles against free radicals were more and less, respectively on day 1 as compared to day 30 and 60. The antioxidant and antibacterial actions of ZnO nanoparticles suspensions was lower on day 60 as compared to day 1. MIC and MBC values of ZnO nanoparticles on day 1 against S. aureus were 8.0 and 64.0 ?g/ml, respectively. MIC and MBC values of ZnO nanoparticles on day 1 against E. coli were 32.0 and 256.0 mg/ml, respectively. MIC and MBC values against both bacterial strains were increased on storage of ZnO nanoparticles for 60 days. In conclusions, the use of ZnO nanoparticles can be extended in the field of Veterinary sciences, Medical sciences, agriculture, food sciences, tap water and wastewater disinfection etc. to counter the diseases/disorders/problems associated with free radicals and bacteria.

4 illus, 2 tables, 51 ref

047352   GUPTA V, PRASAD R, SINGH P, KANT V, KUMAR P, SHARMA M (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Birsa Agricultural Univ, Ranchi, Email: drrajuprasad@gmail.com) : Synthesis and characterization of copper oxide nanoparticles and their cutaneous wound healing potential . Explor Anim Med Res 2020, 10 (2), 188 - 94.

The remarkable financial burden and social impact due to impaired wound healing is forcing the research towards the development of newer drugs or formulations to accelerate the healing. In present study, effects of topical application of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were evaluated in cutaneous wound healing in rats. One square shaped open excision wound (approximately 400 mm2) was created on the back of fifteen rats and rats were equally divided into three groups viz. Group I, II and III. Ointment base, bulk CuO (0.3 %) and CuO nanoparticles (0.3 %) were topically applied on wounds of rats of group I, II and III, respectively for 15 days.The CuO nanoparticles treated group showed significant smaller wound area and increased per cent wound contraction on day 5, 10 and 15 post-wounding in comparison to control group. Histopathologically, wounds treated with CuO nanoparticles has decreased fibroblast number, decreased number of capillaries and compact collagen arranged in well-organized manner and orientation. The regeneration of epithelial layer covering more area of healing tissue was only evident in the CuO nanoparticles treated group. The overall wound maturity score was more evident in the CuO nanoparticles treated group as compared to other groups. In conclusion, topical application of CuO nanoparticles (0.3 %) has pronounced healing potential than its bulk form and its applications may be extended to complicated wounds.

3 illus, 27 ref

047302   KOCHHAR S R, URKUDE R, GUNJATE J K (Chemistry Dep, Nagpur Institute of Technology, Nagpur) : Assessing pesticidal formulation for lambda-cyhalothrin content. Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 483 - 4.

Regular quality control of pesticide is essential to ensure purity of active ingredient in the formulation as claimed on the label of the container. In the present study , two samples of 5 per cent commercially available Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) formulations of synthetic pyrethroid insecticide lambda-cyhalothrin were tested for the concentration of active ingredient as per Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) specifications. It was observed that the active ingredient content was within the range 5.06 and 5.22 per cent, as against 4.75 to 5.50 per cent, specified by BIS. Thus the estimated concentration of lambda-cyhalothrin in the formulation was more or nearly equal to the standard requirement of 5 % as claimed on the label of the container.

3 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

047298   SAHARE A B, GHARDE B D (Chemistry Dep, Amravati's Science Coll, Bhandara, Maharashatra) : Adsorption of Hg and Pb on bio-adsorbent prepared from roots of Mangifera Indica. Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 467 - 70.

Adsorption of Hg and Pb from aqueous phase on the bio-adsorbent prepared from the roots of Mangifera indica was studied, under various conditions like pH, contact time, initial metal ion concentration, doses of adsorbent and temperature. The bio-adsorbent had good adsorption capacity for both of the heavy metals at pH 5 and 6, with optimum contact time of about 75 minutes at low concentrations. The extent of adsorption was found to be inversely proportional to the temperature and increased with the doses of bio-adsorbent, which was found to be efficient in adsorption of toxic metal ions of Hg and Pb from aqueous medium.

7 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

047283   SAHOO S, VASU D, PAUL R, SEN T K SANJAY KUMAR RAY 2 AND PADIKKAL CHANDRAN (Soil Resource Studies Dep, ICAR-NBSSLUP, Nagpur - 440 033, Maharashtra, Email: pchandran1960@yahoo.co.in ) : Acid soils of Manipur of the North-eastern Region of India: Their mineralogy, pedology, taxonomy and edaphology . Clay Res 2024, 43 (1), 31 - 43.

The acid soils of the north-eastern region (NER) of India represent tropical soils of the Indian subcontinent. During the last few decades, ICAR-NBSS&LUP has developed a formidable database on the physical and chemical properties of soils of humid tropical (HT) climate, including some of the states of the NER. However, a detailed mineralogical database for Manipur state is not available. We studied the mineralogy of the soils representing four soil series of Manipur to advance the pedological knowledge on acid soils. The soils belong to Inceptisols and Ultisols that support agricultural land use, forestry, and Jhum cultivation. They have a considerable amount of clay fractions and are rich in organic carbon (OC). Addition of OC and illuviation of clays are the prevailing pedogenic processes in these soils. However, the B horizon is not always the Bt horizon because of the low B/A clay ratio (< 1.2), which is an intriguing issue in pedological parlance. Soils are not kaolinitic; instead, they have dominant kaolin clay mineral (a 0.72 nm mineral interstratified with 1.4 nm mineral), formed from the weathering of hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite (HIV). Hydroxy-interlayering of 2:1 expanding minerals in these acidic soils has caused a decrease in the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the soils and clays, which often misled the pedologists to designate their mineralogy class as kaolinitic. However, the enhancement of soil and clay CEC after determining the total acidity by using BaCl2-TEA, mineralogy class could be fixed as mixed, which is compatible to their present capacity as abetter ecosystem service provider.

2 illus, 5 tables, 44 ref

047282   ALI R, MAHARAJ R, MOHAMMED S, WHITE D (Univ of Trinidad and Tobago, Trinidad & Tobago, W. I., Email: rean.maharaj@utt.edu.tt) : Reusing clay based spent media filter to modify trinidad asphaltic materials . Clay Res 2023, 42 (1), 23 - 30.

The disposal of spent filter media derived from the food processing industry which comprises of spent bleaching clay, diatomaceous earth and an organic (oily component), poses an environmental threat due to the current disposal method being employed. Previous studies conducted in Trinidad and Tobago reusing waste materials similar in nature to the components of spent filter media as an additive for bituminous road paving applications suggest that the waste spent filter media may also improve the mechanical and rheological properties of the modified bituminous binder sand and provide an alternative, environmentally sustainable method for disposal of this waste. The results of this study showed that modifying Trinidad Lake Asphalt (TLA) and Trinidad Petroleum Bitumen (TPB) with spent filter media resulted in changes in the rheological properties of the blends, demonstrated in the deviations in the material?s stiffness (G*) and elasticity ( ?). The optimum dosages to obtain highest stiffness and elasticity and lowest temperature susceptibility was found for modified TLA and TPB blends containing 1 % and 2 % spent media filter content respectively.

7 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

047281   VAJJA V, BEKKAM V R (Civil Engineering Dep, Marri Laxman Reddy Institute of Technology and Management, Hyderabad - 500 043, Email: varasays@gmail.com) : Ground water potential zones using vertical electrical sounding (VES) data in Osman Sagar and Himayath Sagar reservoirs catchment area. Clay Res 2022, 41 (1), 16 - 22.

Out of many geophysical methods like Seismic methods, Electromagnetic methods, Magnetic method, Gravity method etc., resistivity method is familiar to identify the ground water potential zones in view of resistivity variations of rocks with presence or absence of water. Surface geoelectrical investigations were carried out in the Osman sagar and Himayath sagar reservoir catchment area and used in order to know the thicknesses of different layers below the near surface of the earth. A total of 77 soundings are collected spreading over the entire area. All these soundings are conducted using Schlumberger configuration with a maximum half-distance of current electrode separation (AB/2) equal to 100 m until the sounding curve attained ?S? line which is an indication of establishment of contact with electrical basement points. From the result it is observed that the major aquifers are located in the northern half of the basin. More over the entire basin is covered by four principle layers namely soil layer, weathered layer, fractured layer and basement. The major aquifer layers are weathered and fractured layers whose thicknesses are varying from point to point.

10 illus, 12 ref

047280   DWIVEDI S P, SAXENA A (G. L. Bajaj Institute of Technology & Management, Greater Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, Email: spdglb@gmail.com) : Microstructure, mechanical and thermal behaviour of Al-Clay composite material developed by stir casting technique. Clay Res 2021, 40 (1), 009 - 15.

Present study deals with the development of aluminium based composite reinforced with clay particles with an average size of 50?m. Stir casting technique has been employed to develop the composite material. The weight percentage of clay varied from 2.5 % to 17.5 %. Microstructure and Mechanical Behaviour of clay reinforced aluminium based composite were identified. Microstructure image of Al/12.5 % composite showed fair distribution as compared to other selected composition. Interfacial reaction layer developed between the clay and aluminium alloy has been also observed to identify the bond strength between the reinforcement material and matrix material. Interfacial reaction layer between the clay and aluminium alloy showed proper wettability between the reinforcement and the matrix material. Results showed that tensile strength and hardness were improved significantly by adding 12.5 wt. % of clay in aluminium alloy. However, ductility of the composite material continuously decreased by adding the clay in the aluminium alloy. Thermal expansion behaviour of the composite material has been also identified to observe the effect of clay addition in the aluminium alloy.

7 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

047279   ALQADOORI M A I, ISMAIL M M (Applied Sciences Dep, Univ of Technology, Baghdad - Iraq, Email: mustafa_alqdoori@yahoo.com) : Dielectric Properties of Kaolin Material with Different Concentrations of NaOH. Clay Res 2020, 39 (1), 001 - 8.

Kaolin powder (Al2O3.2SiO2.H2O) with average grain size of 350 5?m was mixed with five different concentrations (2, 3, 5, 8, 16) M of NaOH solutions. The capacitance and reactance of prepared samples were measured using LCR meter. At frequencies smaller than 1000 Hz, the addition of sodium hydroxide to kaolin resulted in a significant increase of capacitance, while the sample at concentration 3M showed significant stimulation in the capacitance and reactance. At high frequency, the sample at concentration 2 M was the most stimulating samples. At the 20 Hz and at the few concentrations of sodium hydroxide, the 3 M sample showed significant stimulation in the capacitance value. It found that the concentrations of the electrolytic solution create electrostatic forces that affect the prepared sample leading to an increase in dielectric constant and decreasing reactance which can be candidate for supercapacitor applications.

7 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

041166   KAUR G, SAHA S, DAS A, NAITHANI M (Biochemistry Dep, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, Email: naithanimanisha@gmail.com) : Prevalence and health related effects of internet addiction on medical students in a tertiary care center. Indian J Comm Health 2020, 32(1), 145-50.

Internet usage has increased exponentially in recent years. This growing use of internet has become worrisome as to whether to consider this excessive use as an addiction and if it negatively impacts one’s physical, mental and social health To investigate the prevalence of internet addiction and its association with health related factors in Medical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample size of 250. The students were asked to self-administer a semi-structured proforma regarding internet usage, Young’s IAT and Duke’s Health Profile. Young’s IAT was used to measure the addition level. Duke’s Health Profile was used to assess the physical, mental and social status. 250 students participated in the study, 62 % male and 38 % female. 86 % were found to be average online user and 1.2 % had scores of category of Internet addiction. There was a significantly positive association between monthly expenditure and Young Score Grade. Those falling in category of Internet Addiction had low physical, mental and general health score and high Anxiety and Depression Score. From this study it can be concluded that internet addiction may have negative impact on physical, mental and social well-being of Medical students.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

042905   BAIOMY A, IBRAHIM M (King Abdulaziz Univ, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) : Effect of vitamin d, zinc and copper supplements to enhance treatment of covid-19 patients. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 11(1), 95-9.

The 2019 Coronavirus diseased caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is one of the greatest global health challenges of recent times. To date, no known vaccine has been approved for its prevention and therapeutic interventions involve supportive care. Current preventive measures involve physical distancing, the use of face mask, regular hand washing, or the use of alcohol-based sanitizers. Several previous studies have reported potential antiviral properties of Vitamin D, Zinc, and Copper. Supplementation of these immunomodulators has the potentials to enhance the innate and adaptive immune response in immunocompromised and critically ill patients by the restoration of the depleted immune cell functioning or improvement in normal immune cell functions. Vitamin D administration protected against acute lung injury. Zinc is effective against hepatitis C viral replication and exposure to copper resulted in the loss of coronavirus 229E viral genome. In this review, we present evidence for the potential benefits of Vitamin D, Zinc, and Copper supplementation which may assist critically ill COVID-19 patients.

44 ref

042902   RANADE JAY R, SHAKER A (Biochemistry Dep, Parul Univ, Waghodia, Vadodara) : Co- relation between diabetes and depression: A need for further genetic analysis. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 11(1), 77-80.

Out of all the major disease burdens diabetes and depression are the most common amongst metabolic disease and mental disorders, respectively. Both the diseases have more mortality rate than any other metabolic or mental disorders. Even though both do not share any common symptoms at first depression and diabetes share a common link as observed by many literature reviews. Patients with any of the two diseases are at more risk to develop the other disease than normal people. The literature review based study provides the base for finding whether or not in depressed patients, the genes associated with diabetes are getting differentially expressed or not. This can be easily done by sequencing for diabetes specific genes in clinically depressed patients. Which can provide more insights into the control of gene expression, and whether or not can it be reversed by treating either of the condition.

1 table, 32 ref

042892   SRIVASTAVA A K, SHUKLA A K, SRIVASTAVA N (Chemistry Dep, B R A Bihar Univ, Muzaffarpur, Bihar) : Kinetic studies of malachite green adsorption on copper (ii) complex. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 11(1), 7-12.

The adsorption process of malachite green on Cu (II) -2-aminothiozole complex was investigated at different pH, contact time, initial concentration of malachite green and amount of the Cu (II) complex. The adsorption and kinetic parameters were obtained and tested for different adsorption models and kinetics models by regression analysis method. The results indicated that the data best fit with Freundlich adsorption isotherm and follows pseudo second order kinetics.

9 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

042890   MUTHUKUMAR T (Marwadi Univ, Rajkot, Gujrat) : Business analytics: Current state & challenges. Indian J Sci R 2020, 10(2), 143-52.

At present time and state of the market where businesses and organizations are striving hard to survive and improve performance due to high availability of similar products and services, business processes or products are playing less and less significant role when it comes to differentiate oneself from the others. As a result, more and more firms are leaning towards selecting one or a few distinctive capabilities on which they base their strategies on and then apply extensive quantitative analysis to support the selected capability. In this paper we have examined how analytics is delivering values for various internal and external processes. Form an internal view point, processes related to financial, manufacturing, research and development, and human resources are significantly using analytics. From an external process view point, analytics is presently used in client relations, marketing, supply chain optimizations and in few other processes. We have presented the business functions in different industries that are currently generating insight from analytics and also pointed out areas that could benefit from an analytical approach. In conclusion, we have drawn attention to the challenges that are inevitable when embarking on the analytical journey and commented on the approach that should be taken.

3 illus, 14 ref

042889   SINGH R (Chemistry Dep, T.D.P.G. Coll, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh) : A mini review on antidiabetic plant derived alkaloids. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 10(2), 137-41.

Diabetes is a enocrine and metabolic disease in which blood sugar level becomes very high. The inadequacy of insulin or dysfunction of insulin or both result disturbances in the metabolism of fat, carbohydrate and protein. The chronic hyperglycemea (diabetes) damage the body system. Body does not properly process blood glucose to be used as energy. The control and management of diabetes with synthetic drugs is costly. The synthetic drugs are toxic and chances of side effects are very much high. Therefore a safer and effective treatment is needed with lower cost and lesser side effects. The plant derived chemicals play very important role in the management of diabetes mellitus. The natural alkaloids have been reported to exert a wide range of anti-diabetic activities. In present review article, an attempt has been made to report the various alkaloids isolated from plants with their antidiabetic activities.

52 ref

042875   DOBHAL B S, SHIMPI R P, FAROOQUI M (Badrinarayan Barwale Coll, Jalna, Maharashtra) : Ambient air quality assessment of jalna city (ms), India. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 10(2), 45-53.

The ambient air quality of Jalna city has been evaluated using air quality index (AQI). Air pollutants concentrationSO2 , NOx, RSPM and NRSPM were assessed at residential and industrial sites for one-year period. The monthly, seasonal and annual AQI values determined at both residential and industrial sites for a year. Results suggest better air quality at residential sits than industrial. Government regulations, efficient treatments in plants, proper waste disposal helped in pollution reduction. Annual mean concentrations of SO₂ and NOx found within the permissible limits of Indian National Ambient Air Quality standards (NAAQS), while RSPM and NRSPM concentrations violated at both sites. The annual AQI values 127.79 and 88.50 were recorded for residential and industrial site respectively due to higher RSPM.

5 tables, 41 ref

042873   SINGH P (Chemistry Dep, T.D. P.G. Coll, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Antioxidant property of Solanum nigrum against heavy metal chromium. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 10(2), 33-8.

In environment there are varied form of life. Depending on its physical, chemical and biological properties, heavy metals have been released into the environment may move within an aquifer in the same manner that ground water contaminants. The contamination of nature compartments by heavy metals has become a serious environmental problem. Due to high cost of conventional cleanup technology, there is an increasing interest in the remediation of contaminated sites using biological environmental friendly technique i.e. phytoremediation. It this technique in which soil contamination due to industrial activities is minimized. In this method heavy metals are isolated and detoxify. Phytoremediation process is widely accepted as a cost effective and environmental friendly cleanup technology. During the exposure of plants to contaminated soils the antioxidant defense system helps the plant to protect itself from the damage. Antioxidants are substances used the body to protect itself from damage caused by oxidation due to toxic environment. Solanum nigrum (Black night shade) is common plant grown in all part of the India. In the presence work the plant S. nigrum was exposed to the heavy metal chromium contaminated soils and the biological factors, vitamins and mineral factor and antioxidant factors were investigated. From the observation it is evident that the heavy metal chromium affects significantly the biochemical factors, vitamins and mineral factors and antioxidant factors in S. nigrum plant. It is also clear that Solanum nigrum is found to be heavy higher antioxidant property than other plants.

3 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

042827   GOVERNMENT R M, OKEKE E T , ODERA R S , ANI A K , THADDAEUS J , IKECHUKWU N B (Chemical Sciences Dep, Federal Univ of Wukari, Wukari Taraba State, Nigeria, Email: mike.rabboni@yahoo.com) : Significance of alkaline treatment on the composition of mango seed shell fiber for polymer composite application. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(21), 2168–74.

The minimization of unnecessary components from agro-waste is essential for performance and conversion into useful products in domestic and industrial utilization. The need for removal of these unwanted components is important to boost the strength of the agro-waste for its effectiveness as additive in agro-based polymer composite production as new engineering material for structural purpose. This investigation entailed the influence of NaOH concentration and soaking time on the key compositional content of novel mango seed shell fiber (MSSF). The MSSF was treated with NaOH solution at 2.5, 5, 7.5 wt % concentration and soaking time of 2-6 hr. The compositions of MSSF were obtained for the treated and untreated sample by gravimetric method. The pure and NaOH treated MSSF were analyzed instrumentally employing Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer to show the functionality of some substances present. From this result, the optimum composition of MSSF was observed at 5 % NaOH concentration and 4 hr soaking time. The maximum composition at this condition improved than the crude MSSF by 71.33 % cellulose content, while the hemicelluloses and lignin content removal was lower than the raw fiber by 91.75 and 98.84 %, respectively. The results at this optimum treatment of MSSF composition can be recommended for agro-based polymer composite in indoor application.

4 illus, 1 table, 48 ref

044823   MEHLA R, BAJAJ R (Dairy Chemistry Div, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana) : Strawberry polyphenols-casein interaction: Impact on antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 61-7.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of binding of strawberry polyphenols with caseins/its different fractions (αs, β, and κ-casein) at different polyphenols concentration (0.5 to 5 mg/ml) as well as at different pH using protein precipitation technique. The polyphenols precipitation was observed to be ranged from 58 % to 72 % and found to be utmost with β-casein (72.7 %), moderately lesser with κ- casein and least with whole casein at 0.5 mg/ml concentration. A decrease in DPPH radical scavenging activity from 29.95 % to 30.28 % was observed due to interactions of strawberry polyphenols (0.5 mg/ml) with casein and its different fractions (10 mg/ml). An additive effect was found in antioxidant activity determined by ORAC-FL assay in polyphenol- αs casein, polyphenol- β casein, polyphenol- κ casein and polyphenol- whole casein with the polyphenol concentration ranged from 0.5 mg/ml to 2.5 mg/ml. Binding of strawberry polyphenols with casein and its different fractions at different concentrations caused a decrease in the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of polyphenols. The change in pH of protein-polyphenol solution did not affect the α-glucosidase inhibition activity, demonstrating that no significant (p>0.05) variation takes place in polyphenols binding with whole casein, αs-casein, βcasein, and κ-casein either at pH 5.5 or 6.6.

2 illus, 22 ref

044819   DAVID A, GUPTA S, SINGH S N, MOSES A S (Chemistry Dep, Ewing Christian Coll, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Antimicrobial activity of Cynodon dactylon against MDR bacteria. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 34-6.

The antimicrobial activity of Cynodon dactylon (Grass) were determined and compared against 2 Gram+ve bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and 2 Gram-ve bacteria (Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli), which are Multi Drug Resistant (MDR). The Cynodon dactylon leaves were crushed and their extract was taken in Propanol. The efficiency of the extract were tested against MDR bacteria through well diffusion assay. In this endeavor the antimicrobial assay extract show inhibitory or antimicrobial activity against MDR bacteria. The propanol extract of Cynodon dactylon showed maximum antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram+ve) followed by Bacillus cereus (Gram+ve) while there is no antimicrobial activity obtained against Salmonella typhi (Gram-ve) and Escherichia coli (Gram-ve). On the basis of present finding it was concluded that the extract possess antimicrobial and pharmacological properties, hence can be used parallel to synthetic drugs which have undesirable side effects.

1 illus, 10 ref

044818   UDO U E, ECHEME J O, IGWE O U (Chemistry Dep, Uyo Univ, Uyo, Nigeria) : Isolation of 3, 5, 7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3- methoxyphenyl) chromen-4-one from the stem bark of Lonchocarpus sericeus Poir. (Papilionaceae). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 31-3.

An O-methylated flavonol 3, 5, 7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) chromen-4-one (isorhamnetin) was isolated from the dichloromethane fraction of the stem bark of Lonchocarpus sericeus Poir., (Papilionaceae), a medicinal plant widely employed in folkloric medicine in many communities in Southern Nigeria for the treatment of inflammation and pain. Its structure was established by a combination of spectroscopic techniques including FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, 2- dimensional NMR spectroscopy, ESI-MS/MS and by direct comparison with literature values. This is the first report of the isolation of this compound from the plant L. sericeus.

1 illus, 7 ref

044793   PUROHIT P, PUROHIT M C, KANDWAL A, RAWAT R (Chemistry Dep, Graphic Era Univ, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: mcpurohit123@gmail.com) : Dyeing of woolen fibers with rhododendron arboreum flowers using Symplocos racemosa leaves as mordant under optimum conditions. J Mountain Res 2020, 15, 57-62.

Out of the multiple applications of the diverse natural products of Uttarakhand dyeing of fabrics with the help of various plant parts has always stood out. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to extract natural dye from Rhododendron arboretum flowers and to optimize conditions of concentration and time for dyeing woolen sample from the extracted dye. The results showed that the colour strength (% Absorbance) increases with the increase in concentration of dye up to 0.03 g/ml concentration. Also, dyeing procedure has been optimized by using Symplocos racemosa leaves as mordant. The best results were obtained using simultaneous mordanting method with Symplocos racemosa leaves at 0.03 g/ml concentration.

6 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

044783   MANDAL G K, DUTTA M , KUMAR T, MONDAL A , WALUNJ M G, MISHRA S K, DAS S K, PAIS R, PATHAK L C (CSIR- National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur- 831 007, Email: gopi@nmlindia.org) : Formation and growth of iron-zinc intermetallics during annealing treatment of galvanized steel. J Met Mater Sci 2020, 62(1-2), 37-60.

The development of desired microstructure of galvannealed sheet requires in-depth understanding of the formation and growth kinetics of various Fe-Zn intermetallic phases in the coating during post-treatment after hot dipping of the strip in liquid zinc alloy bath. Keeping this in view, annealing treatment of as-received commercial galvanized sheets, obtained from low (0.135 wt.% Al) and high (0.2 wt.% Al) aluminium containing zinc bath, is carried out to examine the microstructure of annealed sheet with varying strip annealing duration at a fixed galvannealing temperature. The effect of the bath aluminium concentration on the formation of the inhibition layer and on the formation mechanisms of various Fe-Zn intermetallics during subsequent galvannealing (GA) treatment is investigated. Strip annealing simulation is performed using Gleeble® 3800 thermo-mechanical simulator. A detailed characterization of the annealed specimens is carried out to study the galvannealed microstructure produced with varying annealing parameters for both the galvanized specimens obtained from commercial liquid zinc alloy bath with varying aluminium content. A systematic study of annealing treatment of galvanized sheet is performed to enhance the understanding of the role of reacted aluminium present at the interface of the substrate and coating in controlling the nucleation and growth kinetics of Fe-Zn phases to obtain the optimum galvannealed structure. It is observed that high aluminium galvanized bath hinders the formation of the desired sequence of Fe-Zn intermetallics in the coating during annealing treatment. However, galvannealed coating formed using low Al-containing zinc bath shows the desired sequence of various Fe-Zn intermetallics with favourable galvannealed microstructure mainly consisted of compact delta (d) phase, particularly after annealing for 20s at 470 °C.

16 illus, 5 tables, 30 ref

044773   ISMAIL R M, SALEH A H A, ALI K S (Chemistry Dep, Aden Univ, Yemen) : GC-MS analysis and antibacterial activity of garlic extract with antibiotic. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(1), 26-30.

Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of the herbs that used by traditional practitioners for preparation of herbals medicine. In the present study the antibacterial activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of each local and imported garlic had been assayed separately against drug resistant clinical bacterial isolates include: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhi, in addition compare it's effect with conventional antibiotics. The antibacterial activity was determined by disc and a gar well diffusion method. The analysis of local and imported garlic constituents were done by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed that there were differences in the antibacterial effect of garlic types and each extract. The aqueous extracts were more potent especially local garlic than the methanolic extracts, and all combinations were inferior in activity, when compared to the standard Ampicillin and the two types of garlic individually. The Inhibition zone of garlic varied ranging diameters (9.6 – 23.7 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration of different bacterial species varied from 0.048 g/ml to 0.768 g/ml. The GC-MS analysis indicated that GC-MS analysis of local aqueous garlic showed the presence of: 3- chlorothiophene [7.35 %]; diallyldisulphide [13.93 %];-3-vinyl-1,2-dithiacyclohex-4-ene[18.40 %]; 3- vinyl1, 2 dithiacyclohex-5ene [4.12 %]; ethyl trifluoro methyl trisulphide [1.78 %]; amidino thiourea[1.04]. 3,3 ‟thiobis1-propene [3.34 %]; 1,4-diathiane [2.75 %]; N, N‟-dimethyl-thiourea [0.72 %]; 3-hydroxy, methyl-esteroctadecanoic acid [1.34 %]; 2-chlorobutoxyethylester acetic acid [2.73 %]; and 2- methoxy-n-tetrahydro furfuryl acetamide [1.54 %]. Conclusion: Garlic extracts showed a powerful inhibitory effect against pathogens compared with Ampicillin.

3 tables, 28 ref

042769   SHUKLA V, PATEL J , BHUTADIYA L , VORA J, JADAV J (Chemistry Dep, Sheth M N Science Coll, Patan - 384 265, Email: shuklavikas81@gmail.com) : Photocatalytic decolorization of mercuric picrate in the presence of zinc oxide. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(15), 1589–95.

This study was undertaken to examine the decolorization of mercuric picrate with ZnO as a photocatalyst. The photo catalytic decolorization of mercuric picrate in the presence of heterogeneous semiconductor in the aqueous solution has been investigated. The progress of the reaction was checked by Shimadzu 1600 UV visible spectrophotometer at different time intervals. The effect of various operational parameters was studied such as the effect of mercuric picrate concentration, amount of photo catalyst, effect of light intensity, effect of band gap and effect of pH on the solution of mercuric picrate. The study on the effect of radial quenchers such as methanol and ethanol were used. The optimum conditions were obtained as pH =5.0, [Hg-picrate] = 6 ×10^-5 M, amount of ZnO = 250 mg, light intensity =7.61 mWcm^-2. The rate constent ontained was k= 7.30 × 10-3 min^-1. The reaction proceeded through oxidation by hrdroxyl radial confirmed by scavenger. Zinc oxide is effective photocatalyst for decolorization of Hg-picrate. Other semiconductors like ZnS, CdS as well as PbS are not capable to carry out photoreaction. A tentative mechanism for this reaction has been proposed. Mercuric Picrate is a probably explosive toxic substance. Hence a safe way to decompose this molecule into smaller and nonexplosive ways is of crucial importance. Photocatalysis is well established method. However, decomposition of mercuric picrate to a safe level can be achieved by this method.

1 illus, 7 tables, 19 ref

042760   CHOHAN M, MEMON M, RAJPAR I , KHOOHARO A A , KUMBHAR M I , KAKAR H (Soil Science Dep, Sindh Agriculture Univ, Tandojam, Sindh, Pakistan, Email: nisamemon@googlemail.com) : Arsenic transport in canal water and across rice fields in district Badin. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(14), 1505–11.

Irrigation water at Phuleli and Akram canals carry the waste of Hyderabad city and other places on the way to rice fields at lower part of Indus Plain. The long term use of arsenic contaminated irrigation water can accumulate arsenic in rice soils. This study evaluated total arsenic in irrigation water and transported load to rice sites, in addition to the arsenic concentration in main canals and waste sites on the way to Badin. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer equipped with hydride vapor assembly was used to analyze the arsenic concentrations in irrigation water. Currently, the irrigation water quality was generally within the permissible limits of FAO for rice. All types of wastes (14.62-37.2 µg L^-1) entering the Phuleli and Akram canals (7.08 µg L^-1) on the way contributed to total arsenic (6.30-57.12 µg L^-1) in irrigation water at the entrance of rice sites. However, higher arsenic contamination in irrigation water was due to sugar industry waste (37.2 µg L^-1) and lowest due to city waste of Badin (14.62 µg L^-1). The data indicated that mean total arsenic concentration from irrigation water would load 0.12 and 0.14 mg kg^-1 of arsenic annually in soils on the basis of net 1000 and 1300 mm a^-1 water application to rice, respectively. The results clearly indicated that waste added from different sources may aggravate the arsenic contamination of canal water and yet the accumulation in rice fields will keep on increasing. It is suggested that waste must be treated before releasing to prevent contamination of rice field.

4 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

040977   SINGH S, SHARMA N (Chemistry and Biochemistry Dep, Chaudhary Sravan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalya, Palampur - 176 062, Himachal Pradesh, Email: sharma_neelam29@rediffmail.com) : Viral infection induced alterations in phytochemical constituents of Capsicum annum fruit. Indian J Agric Biochem 2020, 33(2), 176-9.

Capsicum annum, one of the important off-season vegetable crops of Himachal Pradesh, commonly known as Shimla Mirch or sweet pepper contains phytochemicals and bioactive compounds that play an important role in plant defence responses. In order to assess the effect of viral diseases on phytochemical constituents of Capsicum fruit, the diseased crop samples were collected from different locations of Himachal Pradesh. Significant variation in all studied constituents i.e. carotenoids, ascorbic acid, total phenols and flavonoids was observed in infected samples over control. The range of values observed in carotenoid, ascorbic acid, phenol and flavonoid content were 5.7-63.8 mg/100 g, 191.2-210.2 mg/100g, 20.0-37.3 mg/100g and 11.5-19.0 mg/100g, respectively.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

040962   SAKHALE B K, CHAVAN R F, GIRI N A (Chemical Technology Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad - 431 004, Maharashtra, Email: bksakhale@gmail.com) : Effect of drying modes on quality characteristics of dehydrated green leafy vegetables. Indian J Agric Biochem 2020, 33(1), 61-6.

The present investigation was carried out for justifying the suitability of various dehydration techniques for desired quality of finished products. The commonly consumed green leafy vegetables viz. fenugreek leaves (Trigonella foenumgraecum) and spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) were assessed for their commercial processing potential through dehydration technology. The selected fresh green leafy vegetables were washed and subjected to steam blanching. The pretreated vegetables were then dehydrated under different drying conditions i.e. sun, shade and tray drying to safe moisture level. The dried samples were evaluated for their dehydration process features, nutritional and sensory characteristics. The data on the dehydration technology revealed that tray dried green leafy vegetables found comparatively more wholesome, palatable and reported maximum retention of nutrients like vitamin C (35-47 %), minerals (96 %), with minimum drying time (2.30-3.30 hrs) and equilibrium moisture content (6 %) as compared to rest of drying methods. The rate constant for drying of fenugreek and spinach leaves were found to be 0.0105 min^-1 and 0.0088 min^-1, respectively in tray drier. The tray drying method was found comparatively superior in retention of sensory quality parameters (color, texture and overall acceptability) over sun and at par with shade drying.

2 illus, 6 tables, 21 ref

040954   MAHANTA B, MANHOT N, DEKA M, SINGH V (Bio-Engineering and Technology Dep, Gauhati Univ, Guwahati - 781 014, Assam, Email: singhva2003@gmail.com) : Weaning foods: Various methods of preparations focusing on traditional steps. Indian J Agric Biochem 2020, 33(1), 11-9.

Cereals and legumes contribute to the major fraction of macro and micronutrients in our diet. While being loaded with phytochemicals, they also come with a considerable amount of antinutritional factors. These antinutrients interact with the proteins, vitamins and minerals, making them unavailable to the body on consumption. In most of the developing nations of the world, weaning foods are sourced from cereals or legumes that are rich in macro and micronutrients vital for the optimal growth of a developing child. On the other hand, presence of antinutritional factors such as phytates, tannins, trypsin inhibitors and lectins interfere with mineral availability and protein digestibility. Traditional processing techniques such as fermentation and malting increase the availability of nutrients by lowering the levels of antinutrients. A large number of commercially available weaning foods, though nutritionally well balanced, are expensive and unaffordable to people from weaker sections of the society. Thus, there is need for a suitable weaning formulation that is cost effective and meets the nutritional requirements at the same time. To put an end to this problem, healthful yet inexpensive weaning foods can be developed through utilization of local and economical agricultural produce with the help of traditional processing aids or practices including soaking, germination, fermentation, malting, roasting etc. The resulting composites can be a nutritionally balanced, readily available and affordable source of food for infants in the developing parts of the world. This review focuses on the efficacy of such traditional yet inexpensive technologies to improve the nutritional content of weaning foods while keeping the anti-nutrients to a minimum.

1 illus, 1 table, 84 ref

042724   MGHAIOUINI R, GRAICH A, ELAOUD A, GARMIM T, BELGHITI M E, BENZBIRIA N, HOZAYN M, MONKADE M, AND BOUARI A E (Chemistry Dep, Hassan II Univ, Casablanca, Morocco, Email: filagri1. maroc@gmail.com ) : Formulation and physico-mechanical characterization of an eco-mortar composite based on bottom ash and magnetized water. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(10), 1172 – 87.

To study the influence of electromagnetic fields on the physico-mechanical properties of the mortar (resistance to compression and bending). In the current research, the influence of the electromagnetic field in the mortar was studied experimentally by replacing the cement with 10% bottom ash provided from a thermal power plant and formulates a mortar with high resistance to compression and bending. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were further performed to confirm the obtained results. Based on the above results, it was found that the use of magnetized water offered better microstructure and mechanical resistance to compression and bending, for both normal mortar and mortar containing 10 % of bottom ash from thermal power plants. The majority of previous publications were produced on normal mortars based on cement and ordinary water, while this study was carried out on mortars with magnetized water and bottom ash. A new method was proposed for the formulation of an eco-mortar based on bottom ash obtained from thermal power plant and magnetized water. Water mortar magnetizes with bottom ash to provide several uses in the field of civil engineering which includes better recovery of industrial waste, an efficient material, and a reduction in the use of cement in the mortar.

15 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

040951   GANJARE A V, PATWARDHAN A W (Chemical Engineering Dep, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai - 400 019, Email: aw.patwardhan@ictmumbai.edu.in ) : CFD simulations of single-phase flow in settling tanks: Comparison of turbulence models. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(4), 413–26.

In the present work, single-phase CFD simulations are performed to study flows in the rectangular and circular settling tank. The three-dimensional flow was studied for the predictions of the velocity profiles in the settling tank. The performance of seven different types of turbulence models, standard k-ε model, low Re k-ε models such as AKN model, CHC model and Abid Model, k-ω model, low Re k-ω model and RSM model has been evaluated for the prediction of flow fields. The CFD model is validated with previously published experimental data. The comparison of velocity profiles, turbulent kinetic energy, turbulent Reynolds number and vorticity are presented. The predictive ability of Abid model is better than other models for prediction of the flow field for both rectangular and circular settling tank. The absolute error for the velocity predictions in the case of the low Re k-ε model is around 30 % less as compared to the other models. The better prediction using the low Re k-ε models is attributed to the damping functions used in the model.

7 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

040945   KUMAR T P, AMBICA V, CHANDRASEKHAR S, MAINKAR P S (Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry Dep, CSIR Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad - 500 007, Email: prathama@iict.res.in) : Rediscovering the discovered: The new paradigm in repurposing drugs. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(4), 359–66.

Drug discovery has brought new molecules for providing better cure for diseases. The process of discovering a new drug from the laboratory to market takes 12–15 years. Industries and academic institutions are exploring the database of earlier approved but kept aside drugs and identifying new use of them. Repurposing focuses on rediscovering the discovered.

3 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

040941   GHOSH D, GUHA C (Chemical Engineering Dep, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi) : Numerical simulation of paraffin wax melting in a rectangular cavity using CFD. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(3), 314–28.

The study presents the numerical simulation of the melting process of phase change material, paraffin wax in a rectangular cavity using ANSYS fluent. The simulation is done for three different Stefan numbers 0.13, 0.18 and 0.28. Enthalpy porosity model and volume of fluid model is used to solve the governing equations. The presence of natural convection and sinking of the solid phase is observed in the density contours. The presence of air content in the cavity is taken into account during estimation of un-melted solid fraction in the cavity which is the novelty of this work. An empirical equation is also derived to calculate solid fraction at different times with different Stefan numbers. This type of empirical equation is proposed for the spherical cavity but not very common in a rectangular cavity. This empirical equation can be useful for designing of latent heat energy storage unit, heat exchanger using phase change material and for the study of metal casting processes. The melting process is also simulated with three different initial shapes of solid paraffin wax in the rectangular cavity. The study reveals that the melting time is not linearly proportional to the volume of paraffin wax.

11 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

040940   GHULAM N A, ABBAS M N, SACHIT D E (Environmental Engineering Dep, Mustansiriyah Univ, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: noorghulam6@gmail.com) : Preparation of synthetic alumina from aluminium foil waste and investigation of its performance in the removal of RG-19 dye from its aqueous solution. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(3), 301–13.

In this study, aluminium foil waste was used as a raw material to prepare alumina (Al₂O₃) by the precipitation process. Then, the produced alumina was applied in the removal of reactive green-19 dye from the simulated wastewater. The purity of the prepared alumina was investigated by the X-ray florescence test, and it was more than 97 %. The X-ray diffraction analysis displayed that the alumina sample calcined at 550°C had γ-Al₂O₃ phase. High-surface area and the pore volume obtained were 246 m²/g and 0.412 cm³/g, respectively. Also, the real and bulk densities were found to be 3 and 1.35 g/cm³ , respectively. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out for removing RG dye from simulated wastewater using the prepared alumina. The effects of pH, contact time, agitation speed, alumina dose, and the initial concentration on the adsorption process were studied. The optimum conditions were as follows: pH = 3; contact time = 90 min; agitation speed = 200 rpm; and alumina dose = 0.25 g for initial dye concentration of 100 mg/L to have high removal efficiency (98.65 %). Moreover, the results revealed that the experimental data fitted to both Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms. The maximum adsorption capacity was 133.33 mg/g.

10 illus, 6 tables, 31 ref

040939   BARIK K, PRUSTI P, MOHAPATRA S S (Chemical Engineering Dep, Indira Gandhi Institute of Technology Sarang, Dhenkanal 759146, Odisha) : Single- and multi-objective optimisation for a combined cooling and antisolvent semi-batch crystallisation process with an ACADO toolkit. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(3), 287–300.

Crystallisation from the solution is a widely practised slow precipitation process for the production and purification of solid particles. Combining cooling and antisolvent crystallisation can enhance the productivity and gives a better control over process, as well. In the current investigation, the model describing the crystallisation behaviour has been optimised (Single-/Multi-objective) for cooling, antisolvent and finally for a combined antisolvent and cooling crystallisation process of Acetyl Salicylic Acid (ASA) from ethanol–water solutions. The appropriate optimal profile of additives to generate supersaturation for a combined crystallisation process is explored properly. In addition to the above, the parametric effect on the final product has also been investigated. The process is modelled by the population balance approach and the method of moments is used to solve the population balance model equation. A simulation programme is developed in MATLAB environment and the optimisation problems are solved by using Automatic Control and Dynamic Optimisation toolkit. Finally the outputs of the optimised conditions are qualitatively and quantitatively compared with the literature and they clearly reveal close agreement for the advanced study. This optimisation study improves the quality as well as the effectiveness of the various objective function related in the production process of ASA.

10 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

040397   RAPARIA Y, HALDER G, ARYA R, BARMAN S (Chemical Engineering Dep, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala - 147 004) : Catalytic performance of modified beta zeolite on the synthesis of styrene and xylene: A kinetic study. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(3), 263–76.

The catalytic performance of K-modified zeolite beta (Kβ) was investigated for the synthesis of industrially important products styrene and xylene by alkylation of toluene with methanol. A series of beta zeolites Kβ_0.25, Kβ_0.5, Kβ_1.0 and Kβ_1.5 were prepared by modification with different concentration of potassium chloride solution (0.25 %, 5 %, 1.0 % and 1.5 %). The modified zeolites were characterised by XRD, SEM, EDS and FTIR. Toluene and methanol in a molar ratio of 0.5:1–7:1 were subjected to vapour phase alkylation reaction in the temperature range of 733–793 K, space-time 0.009–0.025 kgh/kmol at 1 atm pressure. However, maximum toluene conversion was achieved at temperature 773 K, reactant ratio 2.5:1 and space-time 0.010 kgh/kmol over catalyst Kβ_0.25. After modification with K, the acidic Hbeta zeolite become partly basic in nature. A kinetic model was evaluated to find the reaction constants. The activation energy of ring alkylation was found to be 76 kJ/mol.

11 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

040936   ANSARI S Z, PANDIT A B (Chemical Engineering Dep, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai - 400 019) : Evaluation of gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) scale formation and its inhibition by different antiscalants by static and dynamic test. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(3), 251–62.

Deposition of calcium salts or scaling on heat transfer surfaces is a major industrial problem around the globe. Scales get deposited in industrial process equipments severely affecting its life span, operating cost and adversely altering the process. Antiscalants are widely used for inhibition of metal salts formed in this water. In this study, chemical species like phosphates, various vinyl monomers and polymethacrylic acid are tested for their scale inhibition properties under static condition as per NACE standard and dynamic condition using SS and MS metal Strips. The performance of the compounds like Acrylic Acid, Malic acid, Succinic Acid and Polymethacrylic acid, studied during this working was found to be increasing with an increase in the number of a carboxylic (-COOH) group attached to its molecule. The presence of a negative charge over the carboxyl group plays an important role in the formation of ionic bond with the Ca²⁺ ions present in the liquid bulk. The carboxyl group attaches itself on the active sites of the crystal lattice and changes the crystal morphology significantly by blocking the active sites for its possible future growth.

6 illus, 5 tables, 47 ref

040934   KUMAR P (Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Howrah, West Bangel, Email: pratim.kumar.86@gmail.com) : An overview over dinitramide anion and compounds based on it. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(3), 232–42.

Dinitramide anion (DA) is one of the most notable discoveries in the field of energetic materials. Some of the important DA-based compounds are ammonium dinitramide (ADN), potassium dinitramide, silver dinitramide, sodium dinitramide, lithium dinitramide, guanidium dinitramide, etc. apart from several others. All DA-based energetic compounds have wide range of applications ranging from basic chemistry, engineering and to other allied areas. However, ADN is one of the important DA-based compound, and major researches are going over ADN to use it in rocket/ missile for green propulsion. DA-based compounds are generally used in the development of high-performance solid/ liquid propellants, pyrotechnics compositions and for lethal explosives. Other uses of DA compounds are in the chemical synthesis and in various types of industrial processes. In the present paper, an overview has been presented over the crystal structure, physical and chemical properties of all the synthesised DA-based compounds which are documented till date. The present study will be helpful in understanding various application areas of DA-based compounds and their future uses.

7 illus, 58 ref

042709   EGBUJOR M C, OKORO U C, OKAFOR S N (Industrial Chemistry Dep, Renaissance Univ, Ugbawka, Enugu, Nigeria, Email: egbujormc@ gmail.com ) : Novel alanine-based antimicrobial and antioxidant agents: Synthesis and molecular docking. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(9), 1003 – 14.

To synthesize new alanine-based phenyl sulphonamide derivatives with significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The reaction of alanine with benzenesulphonyl chloride afforded compound 3a. The ammonolysis of its N-acylated derivative gave the carboxamide which yielded the aryl/heteroaryl derivatives compounds 3d, 3e, and 3f via Buchwald–Hartwig nickel catalyzed amidation reaction. Structures agreed with the spectra data. Their antimicrobial activities, antioxidant activities, and molecular docking interactions were evaluated. Compounds 3f and 3a were the best antimicrobial agents with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range of 0.5–1.0 µg/ml while compound 3a displayed the highest in vitro antioxidant percentage inhibition of 95.70 % and the best 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 1.072 ± 0.002 µg/ml comparable to ascorbic acid of 96.38 % antioxidant percentage inhibition and 0.999 ± 0.001 µg/ml IC50 value. Compounds 3c, 3a, and 3f had the highest in silico antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant binding energies of −10.03, −11.79, and −13.13 kcal/mol, respectively. Alanine was found to potentiate the antimicrobial and antioxidant actions of benzenesulphonamide and carboxamide derivatives.

4 tables, 38 ref

040931   MESHRAM P D, BHAGWAT S S (North Maharashtra Univ, Jalgaon - 425 001, Maharashtra, Email: pawan.dm@gmail.com ) : Dynamic adsorption of Cd²⁺ from aqueous solution using biochar of pine-fruit residue. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(2), 170–83.

The present investigation describes the applicability of biochar of pinefruit residue (PFR) as a novel adsorbent for Cd²⁺ adsorption in the packed-bed system. Biochar was characterised for surface properties using BET surface area, Boehm titration, FT-IR and a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Experiments were performed to investigate the influence of operational parameters such as bed height (Z = 5, 10 and 20 cm), metal-ion concentration (C_o= 25, 50 and 100 mg · L⁻¹) and flowrate (Q = 2, 5 and 10 mL · min⁻¹) on Cd²⁺ uptake capacity (q_exp). Maximum qexp of 17.93 mg · g⁻¹ corresponding to 51.90 % of Cd²⁺ removal was obtained for Z = 5 cm, Co= 50 mg · L⁻¹ , Q = 2 mL · min⁻¹ at pH 6.9 and 303 K. Established Thomas and Yoon-Nelson models were used to analyse experimental data and the model parameters were evaluated. The comparative study of error functions of Cd²⁺ adsorption capacity predicted by model showed that Thomas model is the best fit. The sorption efficiency of regenerated biochar in successive sorption– desorption cycles was 38.96 % at the end of the third cycle.

4 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

040929   DAVID C, ARIVAZHAGAN M, MISHRRA A (Biotechnology Dep, Technology & Research (Deemed to be Univ), Guntur – 522213, Andhra Pradesh) : Treatment of spent wash effluent using Kaolin immobilised nano ZnO photocatalyst and material characterisation. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(2), 138–49.

The distillery effluent causes a crucial ecological impact when disposed untreated into the environment and the removal of the intense brown colour is a much challenging task due to the presence of a polymeric compound – Melanoidin. This research study reports the synthesis and application of a nano ZnO photocatalyst in an immobilised form. The process parameters such as photocatalyst dosage (0.5–2.5 g/L), initial pH (3–11), initial spent wash concentration and treatment time were optimised to attain the maximum spent wash degradation efficiency. The physical and chemical properties of the as-synthesised photocatalyst were characterised by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), energy dispersive analysis X-ray (EDAX), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The percentage colour degradation of spent wash increased from 36.2 to 77.1 %, with increasing photocatalyst dosage from 0.5 to 2.5 g/L, respectively. The reaction rate constant (k_obs) decreased from 0.0141 to 0.0022 (1/min) with increasing initial spent wash concentration (% dilution) of 5–25 %. The photocatalytic degradation experiment performed at optimised process parameters yielded a maximum of 91.2 % of spent wash colour degradation.

9 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

040926   HUSAIN Z, ANSARI K B, CHATAKE V S, URUNKAR Y , PANDIT A B, JOSHIA J B (Chemical Engineering Dep, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai - 400 019) : Valorisation of biomass pellets to renewable fuel and chemicals using pyrolysis: Characterisation of pyrolysis products and its application. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(1), 78–91.

The pyrolysis of biomass (agro and garden waste) pellets in the temperature range of 200–600°C is studied in the present work. The pyrolysis of biomass pellets in a batch reactor generates mainly CO₂ and CO gases at 300°C and H₂ gas along with C₁-C₃ hydrocarbons at 600°C. The yield of non-condensable gases, liquid products and biochar was 30, 38 wt. % (30 wt. % bio-oil, 8 wt. % water), and 32 wt. %, respectively. The MS analysis of the bio-oil depicted the presence of light oxygenates, furans, anhydrosugars, and phenolic compounds. The biochar showed porous and macrostructure with various surface functional groups. A kinetic study of thermal decomposition of biomass pellets was performed along with a reaction mechanism of the product formation during the pyrolysis. Net energy return calculations depicted that the pyrolysis system can be self-sustained. The present study demonstrates the possible conversion of biomass pellets into useful products such as acids, aldehydes, phenolic compounds and carbonaceous char.

6 illus, 9 tables, 27 ref

042691   GAIKWAD V H, BORUDE K R, KHADE B C, SABALE V B (School of Chemistry Dep, MITWPU, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, Email: vaishali. gaikwad@mitwpu.edu.in ) : Molecular docking study of biologically active ligand and the insights of synthesis, characterization and in vitro studies of derivatives of β-tubulin polymerization inhibitor as antigout agent. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(7), 756 – 66.

The aim of the study is to synthesize derivatives of colchicine, which is an anti-gout drug, and to enhance the antimicrobial activity of it. As it is observed in case study of drug– drug interaction, i.e. Colchicine and clarithromycin, which is known as antimicrobial drug has given fatal results, in consequence to that we have tried to enhance the antimicrobial activity of the drug itself, as there is always a need of antimicrobial drugs in the treatment of gout. In addition, to study the binding of protein and colchicine through molecular docking. In this work, the detailed molecular docking study of colchicine has been done and complexes of colchicine with Co (II), Ti(II), Ni (II) Fe (II) Zn(II) Cu(II) are synthesized and investigated by using IR, and antimicrobial antifungal screening. Docking shows the exact binding site of the ligand which is beta-tubulin inhibitor. It is also observed that first transition series metal forms stable complexes with this ligand specially and shows enhanced antimicrobial activity.

7 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

040922   REDDY S N, SAI P S T (Chemical Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai - 600 036) : Continuous segregation of homogeneous binary mixture of solids by a liquid fluidised bed classifier. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(1), 28–39.

Continuous segregation of homogeneous binary mixture of solids was experimentally investigated in a liquid fluidised bed with water as the fluidising medium. Experiments were conducted to study the influence of operating variables such as feed rate of solids, feed composition and liquid superficial velocity on pressure drop, entrainment and discharge rates of solids, and purity of top and bottom products. The fluidisation phenomenon was observed through pressure drop measurements and the liquid velocity range for the classification of solids was identified. Correlations are proposed for the entrainment rate of solids, and purity of top and bottom products. When solid particles are in a fluid-like state, there exists an equilibrium between released flotsam component and residual jetsam component at steady state.

10 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

040921   KAUR J, CHUGH T, SANGAL V K (Computer Science Dep, Exeter Univ, Exeter, United Kingdom) : Energy efficient global optimisation of reactive dividing wall distillation column. Indian Chem Eng 2020, 62(1), 15–27.

An optimisation problem to minimise energy requirements in the synthesis of bio-additive ethyl tertiary butyl ether (ETBE) via reactive dividing wall distillation column (RDWC) is considered. The contribution of the article is to solve a real-world optimisation problem by addressing two challenges: (i) finding optimal process conditions in few numbers of simulations and (ii) handling mixed-integer variables. An efficient global optimisation algorithm is used to find optimal process conditions and adapted to handle both integer and continuous variables. ETBE is produced by the reaction of ethanol and isobutene in RDWC and has proven its niche in reducing the energy requirements for reaction– separation processes. However, the overall economics of the process is governed by the energy requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to find the optimal process conditions for achieving a cost-effective process. Reboiler duty of RDWC, considered as a measure of the energy requirements to be minimised by using the algorithm. Seven variables (four integers and three continuous) are used in the optimisation process to minimise the reboiler duty. A very low value of reboiler duty is obtained after doing the optimisation, which not only provides an insight when using RDWC but also shows the potential of the algorithm used.

7 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

042663   MIKE G R, JULIUS T, OKEKE T E, KINGSLEY A A, DANIEL A D (Chemical Sciences Dep, Federal Univ, P.M.B 1020, Taraba State, Nigeria, Email: govt_4real@yahoo.com ) : Optimizing the cellulose content of shea butter bark wood fibre through alkali pretreatment for composite application. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(4), 384 – 99.

This study was aimed to optimize the cellulose content (CC) increase with the percentage removal of hemicellulose (HC) and lignin content (LC) of shell butter bark wood fiber (SBBWF) by alkalization process. The truth remains that natural fibers have many uses to be employed in all human activities. The minimization of plant waste is a secret for close economy by effectively converting it to useful ventures. The SBBWF was inserted in variant solutions for the concentration of sodium hydroxide (CSH) at 3–9 wt % and the soaking time (ST) for 6–18 h. The SBBWF before and after pretreatment were analyzed through gravimetric method and Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) to determine its composition and organic substance with corresponding functionality, respectively. The optimization was examined using the central composite design (CCD), an option in response surface methodology (RSM). The results at optimal conditions indicated that the increment in CC with the reduction of HC and LC was 97.9988 %, 44.5245 %, and 45.716 %, respectively. The factors at this junction were CSH and ST at 3 wt % and 18 h, respectively. The R2 values of CC, HC and LC had an approximation nearer to 1. The errors approximated by RSM and experimental readings were <0.43 %. Therefore, the modified SBBWF at this state is potential material in the component of composite manufacturing to be applied in domestic utilization.

6 illus, 3 tables, 51 ref

042656   DEVI R L V R, NEERAJA A, SWAPNA Y, NAGARADHIKA V, SUJATHA P S S R, MURTHY M K (Mathematics Dep, REVA Univ, Bengaluru, Karnataka, Email: kalyankrishna51@ gmail.com) : Numerical study of mhd casson liquid stream over an infinite vertical porous plate with newtonian heating. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(2), 149 – 60.

Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) stream of Casson liquid over a limitless vertical porous plate with Newtonian heating is considered. Casson liquid is non-Newtonian liquid. The governing nonlinear equations are comprehended utilizing shooting system. The impacts of relevant governing parameters on the liquid velocity and the temperature are exhibited graphically. The coefficient of skin friction and the rate of heat transfer are determined numerically. The present outcomes have been good simultaneousness with existing outcomes under some unique cases. Porous plates are additionally used in the design of heat exchangers, computer assemblies, polymer industry, and automotive industry.

8 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

042652   REDDY D A, MISRA S, SINDHU P J , PREMARAJAN S, JOHN S (Krupanidhi Group of Institutions, Bangalore, Email: divyanikhil0205@ gmail.com ) : Is Deteriorating air quality impacting stock performance in India? Air quality index predicts stock performance. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(3), 103 – 13.

This study attempts to examine a systematic relationship between air quality index (AQI) and the performance of stock markets in India. India has ranked among the bottom five countries in environmental performance index (EPI) by World Economic Forum (WEF). Previous studies in this field conducted in other parts of the world indicate a direct relation between environmental performance and market performance; however, the case of India may prove to be different considering the Indian environmental policy, environmental accountability, population, and income and development aspects. We have employed linear regression technique to ascertain the impact of AQI on stock returns. AQI data from 13 stations across India are the dependent variables. These dependent variables are each regressed individually for each stock market index from Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) equity index, Sensex. Therefore, there are 17 models where AQI from the chosen 13 stations has been regressed with each of the industry specific index. A descriptive analysis is also performed to know the yearly averages of the AQI across stations used in the study. Our results confirm that there exists a negative association between AQI and stock returns for top-performing growth stocks. The results also indicate that there is a positive association between AQI and capital intensive industry stocks, while a negative association was observed in the case of labor-intensive industries. The findings indicate that AQI is a predictor for stock returns in India in the short term.Environmental influences on stock market performance are becoming more potent than ever before as the negative externalities of pollution impact the financial performance of corporations.

3 tables, 21 ref

042652   REDDY D A, MISRA S, SINDHU P J , PREMARAJAN S, JOHN S (Krupanidhi Group of Institutions, Bangalore, Email: divyanikhil0205@ gmail.com ) : Is Deteriorating air quality impacting stock performance in India? Air quality index predicts stock performance. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(3), 103 – 13.

This study attempts to examine a systematic relationship between air quality index (AQI) and the performance of stock markets in India. India has ranked among the bottom five countries in environmental performance index (EPI) by World Economic Forum (WEF). Previous studies in this field conducted in other parts of the world indicate a direct relation between environmental performance and market performance; however, the case of India may prove to be different considering the Indian environmental policy, environmental accountability, population, and income and development aspects. We have employed linear regression technique to ascertain the impact of AQI on stock returns. AQI data from 13 stations across India are the dependent variables. These dependent variables are each regressed individually for each stock market index from Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) equity index, Sensex. Therefore, there are 17 models where AQI from the chosen 13 stations has been regressed with each of the industry specific index. A descriptive analysis is also performed to know the yearly averages of the AQI across stations used in the study. Our results confirm that there exists a negative association between AQI and stock returns for top-performing growth stocks. The results also indicate that there is a positive association between AQI and capital intensive industry stocks, while a negative association was observed in the case of labor-intensive industries. The findings indicate that AQI is a predictor for stock returns in India in the short term.Environmental influences on stock market performance are becoming more potent than ever before as the negative externalities of pollution impact the financial performance of corporations.

3 tables, 21 ref