001214   MADHUSANKHA G D M P, THILAKARATHAN R C N, LIYANAGE T, NAVARATNE S B (Food Science and Technology Dep, Sri Jayewardenepura Univ, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka) : Compositional analysis of turmeric types cultivated in Sri Lanka and India. Int J Herb Med 2019, 7(1), 35-8.

Turmeric, “Curcuma longa” is one of the major spices and colouring agents widely consumed throughout the world. Two Indian samples and three Sri Lankan market samples were collected and named them as Indian 1 (Imported from India & samples were collected from Petta market Colombo), Indian 2 (Imported from India & samples were collected from a local city Matale) and Local 1(Collected from a local market), Local 2 (Collected from an Export Agriculture Research Institute, Matale) and Local 3 (Collected from a home garden). Proximate analysis of each turmeric type was conducted at Export Agriculture Research Institute -Matale and University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, pertaining to moisture, Protein, fibre, Total Ash, Acid insoluble Ash, minerals and oleoresins. Results revealed that proximate compositions were in a range such as moisture, protein, fibre, total ash, acid insoluble ash and oleoresin contents (12.40 - 11.33) %, (8.53-7.60) %, (7.90-7.20) %, (7.70-6.70) %, (1.80-1.10) %, and (15.87-14.20) % respectively. The mineral content was analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and results pertaining to Na, K, Fe, and Cu contents were in the ranged of (32- 35), (1603-2402), (32-38) and (0.62-0.73) mg/100g respectively.

7 tables, 10 ref

001231   SHINDE V, MAHADIK K (Bharati Vidyapeeth Univ, Pune, Maharashtra) : Supercritical fluid extraction: A new technology to herbals. Int J Herb Med 2019, 7(1), 27-34.

In Pharmacognosy, extraction of phytochemicals is one of the most fundamental process, which have Witnessed Sea of changes over the period. From centuries, we are striving to develop more effective ways to extract valuable constituents. Starting with galanicals, different solvents, steam, microwave, heat, different methods and equipments all were tried at the best to extract as much as possible. The latest among these is Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE). In this advent, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is mainly used as mobile phase for separation of compounds. This technique is modern, fast and scalable, which can be used to extract, isolate and separate. SFE enjoys some advantages like ultra-pure quality, higher extraction yield and low solvent residue. SFE has been applied to wide variety of materials including natural products, drugs, foods, pesticides, herbicides, surfactants, polymers and polymer additives, fossils fuels, petroleum, explosives and propellants. In coming years, supercritical fluid extraction can give more impetus of crescendo and roll wheel of Pharmacognosy research at great velocity.

1 illus, 2 tables, 74 ref

001205   BHADRA D, SHAH N C, KISHAN K V, DEDANIA M S (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, K. M. Shah Dental Coll, Sumandeep Vidyapeeth, Vadodara, Email: nshah7873@gmail.com) : An in vitro comparative evaluation of commonly consumed catechu and catechu with lime on surface roughness and color stability of the conventional nano‑hybrid composite. J Conserv Dent 2019, 22(1), 87-91.

Comparative evaluation of commonly consumed catechu and catechu with lime on surface roughness and color stability of the conventional nano‑hybrid composite. A total of 50 uniform cylindrical disks of 10‑mm diameter and 2‑mm thickness prepared from the nano‑hybrid composite were used in the study. Each sample was randomly divided into three subgroups of 20 samples each in two experimental groups (catechu, catechu, and lime) and 10 samples in the control group (artificial saliva). The samples were immersed in each agent for 15 days. Surface roughness and color changes measurements were noted at the baseline and 15th day by two‑dimensional profilometer and spectrophotometer, respectively. It was found that nano‑hybrid composite resin showed more surface roughness and color change when immersed in catechu and catechu with lime as compared to the control group. Intergroup comparison showed statistical significant increase in surface roughness and color change in the catechu group followed by the catechu with the lime group and artificial saliva. Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that all experimental specimens showed discoloration. At the end of 15th day, among the groups, catechu showed more surface roughness and color change followed by the catechu and lime and the control group.

2 tables, 18 ref

001215   MAHAPATRA D K, DADURE K M, HALDAR A G M (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Dadasaheb Balpande Coll of Pharmacy, Nagpur, (MH), Email: dkmbsp@gmail.com) : Exploring the anti-breast cancer (against MCF-7 Cell Line) potentials of uracil substituted hippuric acid based 1,3,4- thiadiazole compound. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2019, 10(1), 6013-5.

In the previous research done, uracil moiety substituted hippuric acid containing 1,3,4-thiadiazole scaffold was rationally designed, synthesized, and screened for anti-diabetic activity using the streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic method in Swiss albino rats. In the current research, the same compound N-((5-(((2,6-dioxo-1,2,3,6- tetrahydropyrimidin-4-yl)methyl)amino)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)methyl)benzamide was screened against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line utilizing the Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay and further the IC₅₀ value was established in comparison with capecitabine, the standard drug. The study highlighted a notable anti-breast cancer activity against breast cancer cell line MCF-7 by the uracil substituted hippuric acid based 1,3,4-thiadiazole compound. The activity of the compound was although not analogous to the positive control drug capecitabine, as indicated by the IC₅₀ value. The combination of hippuric acid, 1,3,4-thiadiazole, and uracil produced synergistic activity which arrested cell proliferation. The study will certainly open new avenues and provide direction towards anti-proliferative research by the rational hybridization of small molecules.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

001238   WIDYASARI E M, SIMARMATA M Y A, MARZUKI M, SRIYANI M E, SUGIHARTI R J, NURAENI W (National Nuclear Energy Agency, Bandung, Indonesia, Email: evamaria@batan.go.id) : Preparation of ^99mTc-quercetin as cancer radiotracer in drug discovery. Rasayan J Chem 2019, 12(1), 278 - 83.

Quercetin is a natural compound that has many biological activities to treat various diseases especially as an antioxidant for cancer treatment. This research was conducted to prepare ^99mTc labeled quercetin as a potential cancer radiotracer. The ^99mTc-quercetin complex was prepared with varied parameters to find optimum labeling conditions. In this study, ^99mTc-quercetin was prepared with the formulation of 0.5 mg quercetin hydrate and 30 µg SnCl₂.2H₂O in pH7.5 with the addition of 1-3 mCi ^99mTc. The reaction of complexation was quite rapid within a few minutes in room temperature. The radiochemical yield was confirmed by thin layer chromatography with labeling efficiency of 98.52 ± 0.96 %. These results would make ^99mTc-quercetin continue for following in vitro and in vivo studies to discover its effectiveness as an anticancer from a natural compound.

6 illus, 34 ref

001210   JYOTHI S, RATHIDEVI K , JALAJAA D, RATNAKUMAR P S S (Science and Humanities Dep, Kumaraguru Coll of Technology, Coimbatore - 641 049, Email: jyothi.sci@kct.ac.in) : Inhibitive effect of Mussaenda frondosa leaves extract on mild steel corrosion-statistical and theoretical view. Rasayan J Chem 2019, 12(1), 272 - 7.

The statistical and theoretical view on mild steel (MS) corrosion in a sulphuric acid medium in the presence of leaves extract of Mussaenda frondosa (MF) were studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization techniques. The nature of the inhibitor was defined by the polarization studies. The semicircle curves observed in electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated that the corrosion of mild steel is controlled by the charge transfer process. The corrosion inhibition performances enhanced by the addition of MF extract and increase with increase in the concentration of the MF extract. GCMS is used to gather the important phytochemical constituents in the MF extract. The adsorption of MF on the metal surface is confirmed by SEM images. DFT was performed in order to confirm the adsorption of the constituents in MF extract on MS.

5 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

001230   SHEEJA J , SAMPATH K, MANIVEL R (Science and Humanities Dep, Kumaraguru Coll of Technology, Coimbatore-641 049, Email: sampathchemistry@gmail.com) : Silver nanoparticles doped slaked lime as adsorbent for the removal of basic dyes. Rasayan J Chem 2019, 12(1), 262 - 71.

A new eco-friendly green synthesized silver nanoparticles doped slaked lime was developed as an adsorbent for the removal of basic dyes from aqueous solution. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized through a green route using pomegranate peel and doped with slaked lime. Its applicability in removing basic green 4 dye from aqueous solution was evaluated in a batch process. The effect of control variables such as initial dye concentration, adsorbent dose, pH, agitation time and temperature on the removal of basic green 4 by silver doped slaked lime was analyzed. The experimental data were fitted to classical isotherms such as Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin. The reaction kinetics was examined by interpreting the equilibrium data using pseudo first order, pseudo-second order and intraparticle diffusion equations. The thermodynamic data were examined for feasibility in the potential application on an industrial scale. These studies have proved that rate of adsorption of basic green 4 is excellent and rapid on silver nanoparticles doped slaked lime in which silver nanoparticles induce a local dipole field that enhances adsorption of dye molecules on a rapid scale.

14 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

001207   DIVYA P, PRITHIBA A, RAJALAKSHMI R (Chemistry Dep, Avinashilingam Inst. for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore -641 043, Email: rajivardhan@gmail.com) : A comprehensive review on the nanocomposites of graphene and its derivatives in the application of supercapacitors. Rasayan J Chem 2019, 12(1), 214 - 31.

The unique properties of Graphene-based nanocomposites have attracted numerous investigations in the field of materials science from supercapacitors to drug delivery applications. Graphene has received attention as a probe or electrode material source for supercapacitors because it consists of low electrical resistance, large electrolyte accessibility based on the larger surface area and chemical stability. The extra properties of graphene show some promising application such as optical electronics, composites and others. Supercapacitors are able to store more energy and can be fully charged / discharged at high speeds. This review has been mainly focused on the following points namely synthesis route of Graphene which consists of Bottom-Up and Top-Down approaches, are more difficult and hindering the massive production of graphene. We have also discussed the different techniques utilized for the synthesis of reduced graphene oxide namely thermally, hydrothermally, partially and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide and its electrochemical behavior. Analysis of these results inferred the specific capacitance in the range of 220,223.6, 225 and 230 F/g (acid and neutral). The characterization of Graphene/Nanocomposites by RAMAN, FTIR, SEM and TEM analysis were also reviewed and found to be suitable for supercapacitors. In this review, the current development of the synthesis route of graphene oxide and its composites with future prospects is presented and discussed.

4 illus, 3 tables, 80 ref

001232   SIHOMBING J L, PULUNGAN A N, ZUBIR M, JASMIDI, WIBOWO A A , GEA S, WIRJOSENTONO B, HUTAPEA Y A (Chemistry Dep, Sumatera Utara Univ, Medan- 20155, Indonesia, Email: s.gea@usu.ac.id) : Conversion of methyl ester fatty acid from rice bran oil into fuel fraction via hydrocracking reaction over zeolite catalyst supported of Ni, Co and Mo metals. Rasayan J Chem 2019, 12(1), 205 - 13.

The purpose of this research was to produce bio-gasoline fraction from methyl ester fatty of rice bran oil through catalytic hydrocracking systems. The following method was; 1) Preparation and impregnation of Ni, Co and Mo metals inactivated commercial natural zeolite (CNZ-A) to be NiO/CNZ-A, NiOMoO/CNZ-A and NiOCoOMoO/CNZ-A, 2) Production of methyl ester fatty acid (MEFA) from rice bran oil using esterification and trans-esterification process, and 3) Catalytic hydrocracking MEFA at a temperature of 350 °C, 400 °C and 450 °C respectively. Furthermore, the characterization of catalysts using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) resulted in no significant changes in crystal systems and catalysts were indicated as a mordenite. Then, the analyzing of nitrogen adsorption through the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method depicts the reducing in the surface area of catalysts, however, the mean pore and pore volume of catalysts experienced an increasing trend. Moreover, the highest liquid product was 90.24 % of NiO-CoO-MoO/CNZ-A catalyst (400 °C), with selectivity for gasoline and diesel fractions was 28.34 % and 71.65 %, respectively. In essence, the three metals (Ni,Co and Mo) gave the highest percentage of biogasoline products among the three catalysts.

5 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

001233   SUDJARWO S A, ANWAR C, ERAIKO K, WARDANI G, KOERNIASARI (Pharmacology Dep, Airlangga Univ, Surabaya- 60115, Indonesia, Email: ags158@yahoo.com) : Cardioprotective activity of chitosan-Pinus merkusii extract nanoparticles against lead acetate induced cardiac cell damage in rat. Rasayan J Chem 2019, 12(1), 184 - 91.

This study, we investigated the role of Chitosan-Pinus merkusii extracts nanoparticle in against lead acetate-induced cardiac cell damage in rat. Chitosan-Pinus merkusii extract nanoparticle was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) .The fifty rats were divided into: control group (rats were given with distilled water); lead acetate group (rats were injected with lead acetate 15 mg/kg body weight i.p.), and the treatment group (rats were given the chitosan-Pinus merkusii nanoparticle 100 mg; 200 mg; 400 mg/kg body weight orally and were injected with lead acetate 15 mg/kg BW). The blood was taken to be measured lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and Creatinine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) level. Also the cardiac tissues were collected to evaluate the malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and histological evaluations of heart damage. The size of Chitosan-Pinus merkusii extract nanoparticle in the DLS was 201.8 ± 14.6 nm, while in the SEM showed an irregular shape and rough surface. The lead acetate significant increased LDH, CKMB,MDA, and decreased SOD, GPx. Histological analysis, lead acetate also induced necrosis in the cardiac cell. However, treatment with the Chitosan-Pinus merkusii extract nanoparticle, only dose 400 mg/kg BW significantly decreased LDH, CK-MB, MDA, and increased SOD, GPx levels. The Chitosan-Pinus merkusii extract nanoparticle 400 mg/kg BW also demonstrated significantly improved cardiac cell damage. From the results, it is concluded that the Chitosan-Pinus merkusii nanoparticle is a potent antioxidant in against lead acetate-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

3 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

001206   BONAFÈ F, PAZZINI C, MARCHIONNI S, GUARNIERI C, MUSCARI C (Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences Dep, Bologna Univ, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy, Email: claudio.muscari@unibo.it) : Complete disaggregation of MCF-7-derived breast tumour spheroids with very low concentrations of α-mangostin loaded in CD44 thioaptamer-tagged nanoparticles. Int J Med Sci 2019, 16(1), 33-42.

α-Mangostin (αMG) is a natural substance that exerts a wide range of antitumor effects. Recently, we described that free αMG was able to dissociate multicellular tumour spheroids (MCTSs) generated from breast carcinoma cells and to reduce their cellular viability and motility. Here, αMG was encapsulated into lipidic nanoparticles (NPs), conjugated or not to a CD44 thioaptamer, and the anticancer action evaluated against MCF-7 breast MCTSs. NPs containing αMG were formulated with a core of polylactic-co-glycolyc acid. Some of them were decorated with a CD44 thioaptamer using as catalysts 1-ethyl-3- (3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide and N-hydroxysuccinimide. Both size and density of MCF-7-derived MCTSs were monitored during 72 h of treatment with NPs carrying 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 µg/ml final concentrations of αMG. MCTSs were cultured on Matrigel or gelatine to better simulate the extracellular environment. The NPs without thioaptamer and conveying 0.1 µg/ml αMG caused a significant dissociation of the MCTSs grown in gelatine after 24 h of treatment (p < 0.01). The most significant disaggregation of MCTSs was obtained using NPs carrying 0.5 µg/ml αMG (p < 0.01). A similar dissociating effect was observed when MCTSs were cultured in Matrigel under the same conditions for 48 – 72 h. By contrast, only concentrations over 1.0 µg/ml of free αMG were able to provoke a damage to MCTSs, consisting in a substantial reduction in their size (p < 0.05). Since the MCTS dissociation induced by αMG-loaded NPs occurred only in the presence of Matrigel or gelatine, an impairment of cell contacts to collagen fibres was likely responsible of this effect. Finally, the treatment of MCTSs with αMG-loaded NPs that were conjugated to the CD44 thioaptamer caused a similar decrease in density but a lower expansion of the spheroid, suggesting that a significant number of cells were died or arrested in cycle. Very low concentrations of αMG delivered by lipidic NPs are sufficient to provoke a substantial disaggregation of MCF-7 MCTSs that involves cell-to-collagen contacts. Similarly, the treatment of MCTSs with NPs conjugated to a CD44 thioaptamer leads to MCTS dissociation but through a more damaging action that causes also a reduction in cell number.

6 illus, 34 ref

027420   KUMAR R, MEHNDIRATTA P, MISHRA N, THUKRAL A, PATHAK S, SINGH R (Chemistry Dep, Amity Univ, Gurugram– 122 413, Haryana, Email: srpathak@ggn.amity.edu) : Bioavailability enhancement of poorly water-soluble nano diosgenin by encapsulation using chitosan/bovine serum albumin bilayers. Asian J Pharm 2018, 12(2), 115-9.

To enhance the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble diosgenin (DG) by chitosan/BSA encapsulated nanoparticle formulation. 0.1 % chitosan aqueous solution was mixed with freshly prepared saturated DG solution followed by probe-sonication for 30 min., thereafter 0.1 % BSA solution was added drop-wise and sonicated for another layer formation. Procedure was repeated for bilayer formation. After each layer formation nanoparticles were centrifuged and resuspended in fresh DI water. Results and Discussion: The DLS of nanosized DG shown to have a radius of 2 nm to 40 nm. Surface morphology of nanoDG has been observed using SEM. Non-significant changes under the UV/Vis and IR, suggest the retention of drug properties at nano level. Chitosan/BSA coatings generated a higher surface charge (ca. +28 mV and -30mV) resulting in good colloidal stability. Dissolution technique was used for release profiling of drug from layer-by-layer assembly. The combination of biocompatible ionic polymers chitosan/BSA bilayer encapsulation around nanoDG, allowed sustained release of drug molecule up to 30 hours.

8 illus, 21 ref

028627   MUKHOPADHYAY S, NAUTIYAL J, KOTHIYAL P (Pharmaceutics Dep, Shri Guru Ram Rai Univ, Uttarakhand, Email: sayantan.pharmaceutics@gmail.com) : Formulation and evaluation of solid lipid nanoparticles of Venlafaxine hydrochloride for the effective treatment of depression. Int J Pharm Bio Sci 2018, 8(3), 273-88.

In the present study, Venlafaxine hydrochloride-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles were successfully prepared by using modified solvent diffusion method. The SLNs were prepared by using 1.5 % and 2.5 % w/v of Tween 80. The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, surface morphology, drug entrapment and surface entrapment. The particle size of prepared nanoparticles was found in acceptable range that is from 213.2 to 635.1d. nm and PdI from 0.243-0.947. Along with this zeta potential of all the prepared nano formulations lies in the range from –11.2 to – 16.9 mV. Low values of surface entrapment efficiency indicated that less amount of drug was present on the surface of drug loaded solid lipid nanoparticles and a higher amount of drug was found to be entrapped in drug loaded solid lipid nanoparticles. Finally, carbopol 940 (2 %) gel was prepared by incorporating venlafaxine hydrochloride-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles into it. The prepared gel was evaluated for viscosity, spreadability, pH and drug content. Drug content of all the prepared solid lipid nanoparticulated gel was ranged from 71.94 % to 88.95 %. In vitro diffusion results revealed that 64.05 % - 90.25 % of drug released from the formulations in 24 hrs study period. In formulation FF4 and FF7, by observing the value of n it was confirmed that the anomalous transport is dominant and in remaining formulations, Super case II Transport is dominant. Therefore, it was concluded that prepared formulation was able to provide better management of depression and hence improve patient compliance.

3 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

028620   KANTHARAJU K, HIREMATH P B (Chemistry Dep, Rani Channamma Univ, Belagavi- 591 156, Email: kk@rcub.ac.in) : One-pot, green approach synthesis of 2-aryl substituted benzimidazole derivatives catalyzed by water extract of papaya bark ash. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(7), 1634-8.

A simple, green, rapid and environmentally benign route has been developed for the synthesis of 2-substituted benzimidazoles by the reaction of substituted o-phenylenediamine with different substituted benzoyl chloride using water extract of papaya bark ash (WEPBA) as a green catalyst at room temperature. This method provides several added advantages of being completely green, economic, giving high yields and minimizing use of hazardous solvents. Further, the separated product does not required any kind of chromatographic purification.

2 tables, 65 ref

028608   AHMED A J, ALSAMMARRAIE A M A (Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: alyaa.jabbar@yahoo.com) : Synthesis, spectral, structural and antimicrobial studies of silver nanoparticles and Ag(I) complex of 2-mercaptobenzothiazole. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(7), 1608-12.

In the present study, Ag(I) complex is synthesized by reacting silver nitrate with ligand (2-mercaptobenzothiazole) in a 1:2 mole ratio. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles were prepared by the reduction of AgNO₃ using 2-mercaptobenzothiazole in dilute aqueous sodium citrate buffer solution. The Ag(I) complex are characterized by elemental analyses, flame atomic absorption, thermogravimetric analyses, molar conductance and magnetic susceptibility, UV-visible as well as FTIR spectroscopy. Analyses, linear geometry is suggested for the Ag(I) complex. The prepared nanoparticles are characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive microscopy, atomic force microscopy, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that silver nanoparticles with fcc crystal structure. The SEM micrographs indicated that the morphology is nearly rods shaped structure with an average diameter of about 100 nm. Biological activities of the ligand and its Ag(I) complex and silver nanoparticles are tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli bacteria and Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis fungi. It was found that both Ag(I) complex and silver nanoparticles have antimicrobial activities.

7 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

028650   THAMER N A, MUFTIN N Q, AL-RUBAE S H N (Molecular Biology Dep, Al-Mustansiriyah Univ, Iraq, Email: neran1958@yahoo.com) : Optimization properties and characterization of green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Cordia myxa L. leaves. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(7), 1559-63.

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were green synthesized using aqueous extract of Cordia myxa L. leaves as reducing and capping agent. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometer, FTIR, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope. The prepared copper oxide nanoparticles showed surface plasmon resonance centered at 400 nm. The optimized condition for the synthesis of copper nanoparticles revealed that the aqueous extract of Cordia myxa L. leaves:copper sulfate ratio was 1:3, pH was 9 and copper sulfate concentration was 40 mM. FTIR results showed that stabilization and formation of CuONPs were due to phenolic groups and amines in plant extract. The XRD pattern showed that the particles are monoclinic in nature. The crystalline morphology and size of the nanoparticles were determined by scanning electron microscope. Presence of elemental copper was revealed by EDX analysis. Size range was from 20 to 106.81 nm was determined by atomic force microscope.

9 illus, 39 ref

028610   BELL S S J, SUBHASHINI S (Chemistry Dep, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science & Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore- 641 001, Email: sheebachem90@gmail.com) : Self-assembled chitosan-g-poly(itaconic acid) nanoparticles: a potential drug carrier for docetaxel. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(7), 1469-75.

A series of chitosan-g-poly(itaconic acid) nanoparticles (PIACS) were prepared to evaluate their drug delivery application, which was prepared via free radical polymerization using ammonium persulphate as initiator in nitrogen atmosphere. The electrostatic attraction between carboxylic groups of poly(itaconic acid) and amine groups of chitosan lead to the size reduction. All the synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by FT-IR, particle size analyser, zeta potential analyzer, thermogravimetry, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Drug was loaded to nanoparticle by co-precipitation method. Drug release studies were carried out in 6.8 and 7.4 pH. Drug entrapment efficiency of chitosan-g-poly(itaconic acid) nanoparticles was lying between 93-95 %. Predicted ADMET (PreADMET) was confirmed that plasma protein binding was less. These results highlight the potential of chitosan-g-poly(itaconic acid) nanoparticles as an efficient drug carrier.

12 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

028643   SIBOKOZA S B, MOLOTO M J, MTUNZI F, MOLOTO N (Chemistry Dep, Vaal Univ of Technology, South Africa, Email: makwenam@vut.ac.za) : Diphenyldiselenide mediated synthesis of copper selenide nanoparticles and their poly(methyl methacrylate) nanofibers. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(7), 1455-9.

Copper based chalcogenide nanoparticles have been synthesized using other methods or techniques. Less is reported on the use of metal complexes as single-source precursors for the synthesis of copper chalcogenide nanoparticles. Diphenyldiselenide is a stable organic source of selenide which is readily cleaved by using sodium borohydride to result in monodentate ligand to the copper metal. The complex is used as precursor to prepare the copper selenide nanoparticles under controlled conditions of hexadecylamine as a solvent and capping medium, time, concentration and temperature. The nanoparticles prepared are of well-defined optical properties and sizes lower than 5 nm which are spherical and highly monodispersed. The polymer fibres were prepared by using poly(methylmethacrylate) loaded with various mass (0.2-1.8 %) copper selenide to make nanofibres with diameters ranging from 1.95-14.65 μm. The thermal analysis reveals the increase in stability of the fibres as the amount of copper selenide nanoparticles is loaded.

5 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

028612   BINO PRINCE RAJA D, RETNAM B S J, ANTONY SAMUEL PRABU G, ALAGU SUNDARAM A (Aeronautical Dep, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher education, Kumaracoil - 629 18 Tamil Nadu, Email: binoaero87@gmail.com) : Mechanical, morphological and thermal characterization of hybrid bamboo/glass fiber reinforced polyester composites. Rasayan J Chem 2018, 11(3), 990-8.

In the present research, synthesis and characterization of hybrid bamboo/glass fiber reinforced polyester (PE) matrix-based composites through compression moulding technique was fabricated and characterization is done. Seven different combinations of composite plates were prepared with the fiber alignment of 30^o and 60^o in a plain weaved mat form. Experimental results show that when hybrid fibers combined with polyester matrix, mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, hardness and water absorption tests of the matrix increases the superior specific strength and modulus but have a lower failure strain compared to other combinations and then pure bamboo or pure glass fiber possess decrease in strength compared to hybrid combinations. Thermal and Morphological investigation of the pure bamboo or pure glass fiber and hybrid fiber fiber-reinforced polyester composites have also been carried out. The results found show that application of these fibers as probable reinforcing materials in bio-based polymer composites.

11 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

028652   VISHWANATH D, KESAGODU D, RANJINI P, VIJAYAKUMAR S, BASAVARAJU Y B (Biotechnology Dep, Mysore Univ, Mysuru - 570 005, Email: yuvadevaraj2018@gmail.com) : Synthesis of Zn - catalyzed substituted -3-(3, 4, 5- trimethoxyphenyl) prop-2-en-1-keto-triazoles and their biological evaluation. Rasayan J Chem 2018, 11(3), 955-61.

The importance of azide and chalcones is highly potential and potent in biology and chemistry. Therefore we Synthesized triazole derivatives of substituted -3-(3, 4, 5-trimethoxyphenyl) prop-2-en-1-one in presence of Zn catalyst in alcohol in good yields by chalcone method. All synthesized compounds were characterized by spectral techniques. Further, the compounds were investigated for biological activities

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

028639   SALIH S I, AL-FALAHI N H, SALIEM A H, ABEDSALIH A N (Physiology Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: alisaliem977@gmail.com) : Effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin matrix treated with silver nanoparticles in fracture healing in rabbit model. Vet World 2018, 11(7), 944-52.

The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) treated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on enhancing the healing of the experimentally induced bone gap in a rabbit model. Twenty healthy male local rabbits aged between 6 and 8 months, their weights between 1.5 and 2 kg were used in this study and divided randomly into four equal groups, under general anesthesia (1 cm), bone gap was induced in the tibia bone to create a critical bone defect and leave it without any treatment in the first group (control group). While in the second group the bone gap was filled with PRFM; in the third group, the gap was filled with 0.3 ml AgNPs; and in the fourth group, the gap was filled with PRFM treated with AgNPs. There was no infection at the operation site in all experimental animals, and the radiograph images showed periosteal and endosteal reaction; the gaps were bridged faster in the fourth group as compared with the other groups. The histological examination showed lamellar bone with haversian canal completely filled the fracture gap and contact with old bone in the fourth group as compared to other groups. Using a combination of PRFM and single nucleotide polymorphisms together gave better acceleration in the bone healing process than using each one of them separately.

16 illus, 41 ref

028630   NAUMI F, NATANAEL C L, RAHAYU I, INDRARTI L, HENDRANA S (Chemistry Dep, Padjadjaran Univ, Indonesia, Email: shendrana@yahoo.com) : Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell based on sulfonated polystyrene and phosphoric acid with biocellulose as a matrix. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 289-93.

Membrane is one of the key performance for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). Commercial membrane often used in PEMFC and DMFC Nafion® has some drawbacks such as high cost, limited operating temperature and high fuel permeability. A new polymer electrolyte membrane based on sulfonated polystyrene (sPS) has been developed. Sulfonated polystyrenebased membrane with addition of biocellulose matrix and phosphoric acid additives was made in this research. The membrane was prepared by using hot rolling and press method through a matrix. Sulfonate group on the membrane is characterized by FTIR. Morphology and atomic composition are characterized by SEM-EDS. Stability and heat resistance are tested by DSC, ionic conductivity tested by EIS and along with the water uptake capability. Result of this study showed the membrane contains sulfonate group as confirmed by FTIR spectrum with the peak stretching vibration of S=O at a wavelength of 1371 cm^-1. Morphology membrane changed due to the modified interaction between polystyrene with biocellulose. Water uptake of the membrane increased to the increase of phosphoric acid concentration. From the experimental data, it can be indicated that the addition of phosphoric acid modified morphology and structure of membrane.

8 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

028646   SOLIHUDIN, RUSTAMAN, HARYONO (Chemistry Dep, Padjadjaran Univ, Indonesia, Email: solihudin@unpad.ac.id) : Simple method and environmentally friendly ash content removal process from rice husk char using potassium carbonate solution. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 285-8.

Carbonization of rice husk produces rice husk char with high ash content and silica. The main problem to obtain carbon from rice husk char is the release of silica. In this study, silica was released using potassium carbonate solution by reflux method. The purpose of this study was to determine the ratio of silica mole to potassium carbonate, reflux time and the calcination temperature of rice husk carbon. The result of carbon activation was then characterized by ash content test, conductivity test, XRD, FTIR and SEM-EDX. In this study the ratio of potassium carbonate mole with silica content of 1: 3, reflux time for 2 hours and calcination temperature at 900 ^oC is known. Carbon was obtained in amorphous form with iodine number and methylene blue number of 556 mg/g and 66 mg/g respectively.

6 illus, 10 ref

028629   NARSA A C, PUJIYANTO A, ADANG H G, MAOLANA Y I, INDRARINI L, PUTRI F R, ABDASSAH B M, ABDUL M (Chemistry Dep, Padjadjaran Univ, Indonesia, Email: anggaciptan@yahoo.com) : Comparison of different methods for purification of gold nanoparticles- polyamidoamine (PAMAM) generation 4 dendrimer. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 255-9.

Gold nanoparticles (AuNP) are currently being widely applied in cancer diagnosis as a CT Scan contrast agent (imaging) as well asin therapy (theragnostic agents). The polyamidoamine (PAMAM) G4 dendrimer has also been applied as a stabilizer agent to control the size of gold nanoparticles. In the production of AuNP-PAMAM G4 dendrimer, a solvent and reducing agent were used. Therefore, it is necessary to separate and purify the synthesis result of AuNP-PAMAM G4 dendrimer from the undesired compounds. Separation and purification were carried out by two different methods, namely, size exclusion column chromatography Sephadex G25^® (SE), and membrane ultrafiltration (MU). The percent yield of AuNP that has been synthesized was calculated by using Inductively Couple Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and then characterized by using UV-Vis Spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). The percent yield of AuNP, which was carried out by MU, was 93.75 %. This result was better compared to using SE (81.18 %). The characteristics results from the UV-Vis spectrum demonstrated similar spectra between separation and purification methods using both MU and SE. The characteristics results from TEM also showed similar morphological results.

4 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

028619   JONI P, IRHAN F, SUMBOGO M S D, DEWI ENIYA L (Center for Energy Resources and Chemical Industry, Indonesia, Email: joni.prasetyo@bppt.go.id) : Preliminary study of using palm oil mill effluent to produce bio hydrogen as biofuel. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 245-8.

Indonesia has the largest oil palm plantations in the world and it produces about 32 million tonnes of palm oil annually. During palm oil processing, Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) is generated and this organic waste has very high chemical oxygen demand (COD) of between 30,000 ppm and 100,000 ppm. POME can be converted directly to hydrogen biogas and this is very desirable because it can be used as both fuel and chemical reagent. Efforts to produce more hydrogen biogas rather than methane biogas can be done via consortium fermentation by suppressing methanogenesis microorganism in activated sludge using physical treatment. In order to maintain the fermentation for hydrogen biogas production, the pH was controlled in a rather acidic condition (pH 5-7). The characteristic of this process was studied by doing batch fermentation. To maintain the desirable fermentation condition, 10 % phosphate buffer and 5 % NaCl were added. It was discovered that hydrogen biogas fermentation using the smallest batch process was influenced by hydrostatic pressure, fermentation time and the amount of active sludge. Therefore, to maximize hydrogen biogas production, the process was done with a bioreactor in order to minimize hydrostatic pressure. In the bioreactor system, hydrogen biogas flows directly to the sampling gas and as a result, the hydrogen biogas produced has a hydrogen concentration reaching 50 % and its yield reached 0.7 mL/mL POME in the batch system. The amount of hydrogen biogas increased in the bioreactor by 0.9 mL/mL POME because the hydrostatic pressure was minimized. As for the semi-continuous process, the cultivation was treated to one day of anaerobic fermentation without additional POME. During this fermentation phase in the bioreactor, the hydrogen biogas generated was 1,200 mL in 2.5 L of working volume reactor. In the continuous stage, the hydrogen biogas yield was stable at 0.9 mL/mL POME for inlet POME 4.10 mL/min.

5 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

028618   IMAN R, JULIANDRI W A, ROSTIKA N A, RAKHMAWATY E D, ANNI A (Chemistry Dep, Padjadjaran Univ, Indonesia, Email: iman.rahayu@unpad.ac.id) : Determination of optimum pressure for Gd³⁺ separation from Gd-DTPA with nanofiltration membrane. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 203-5.

Nowadays, many studies on separation of rare earth elements have been conducted due to its diverse utilization. One of its applications in medical area is the utilization of gadolinium in the form of Gd-DTPA complex for contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In the preparation of Gd-DTPA, there is a possibility of residual Gd³⁺ which is toxic in nature and therefore requires separation process before it can be applied. The separation of Gd³⁺ from Gd-DTPA complex can be performed by nanofiltrationcomplexation method. In the present study, Gd-DTPA complex was prepared by reacting Gd₂O₃ with DTPA ligand with reflux followed by separation of Gd^₃+ from Gd-DTPA with nanofiltration membrane with varying pressure (5.8, 6.0, 6.2 and 6.4 bars) at 40 °C followed by determination of flux and rejection coefficient of the membrane. The results of the present study indicate that flux of the permeate increased with increasing pressure up to 339.94 L.m^-2. hour^-1 while rejection decreased down to 9.02 % at 6.4 bars. The concentration of Gd³⁺ presence in the Gd-DTPA after the filtration process was 0.201 ppm.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

028614   DIAH K, JONI P, ENDANG S, SUMI H (Chemistry Dep, Indonesia Univ, Indonesia, Email: diahkimia@gmail.com) : Biohydrogen production through separate hydrolysis and fermentation and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation of empty fruit bunch of palm oil. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 193-7.

Indonesia produces 32 million tons of palm oil per year, the largest volume of yearly palm oil production. This massive amount of palm oil production has led to the accumulation of a large amount of empty fruit bunch (EFB) disposed as solid waste. EFB acts as a lignocellulosic biomass consisting of 43 % cellulose, 23% hemicellulose and 33% lignin. EFB can potentially be utilized as a raw material to produce biohydrogen, one of the various bio-energy forms. The EFB was initially subjected to delignification using Aspergillus fumigatus for seven days at 30°C in the pH range of 5-6. This biodelignification is intended to increase the accessibility of cellulase towards the EFB biomass before being converted into biohydrogen by Enterobacter aerogenes. In this work, the delignified EFB was subjected to produce biohydrogen through SHF and SSF methods. The results demonstrate that the production of biohydrogen using EFB as raw material through the SHF method has many weaknesses. The main disadvantage was the product of reducing sugar (RS) inhibits cellulase activity. Cellulase was found to be inactive and sugar production stopped during the fermentation process. Furthermore, E. aerogenes underwent material insufficiency to be converted to hydrogen. The maximum product of biohydrogen was 15.5 ml/g EFB on 260 g EFB/L, with the cellulase concentration of 36 FPU/g EFB. Biohydrogen production using E. aerogenes was significantly affected by the cellulase concentration and the amount of EFB. The production of biohydrogen increased significantly using the SSF method. The highest production of hydrogen gas was 635.3 ml which was achieved at the EFB weight of 220 g/L with a cellulase concentration of 36 FPU/g EFB. The effectiveness of the SSF method for biohydrogen production is shown by the reduction of cellulose (28.70 %) and hemicellulose (23.53 %), compared to the SHF method.

5 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

028631   NUR S U, ANUNG P, ENNY L, ENDANG S, HOTMAN L, TRIANI W, SISKA F (Center for Radioisotopes and Radiopharmaceuticals Technology, National Nuclear Energy Agency, Banten-15310, Indonesia, Email: uminurs@batan.go.id) : Critical parameters of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized by sodium borohydride reduction. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 179-83.

Nanoparticle technology has rapidly developed during the past few years. The Center for Radioisotope and Radiopharmaceutical Technology (PTRR), National Nuclear Energy Agency (BATAN) developed silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) that can be applied in the medical field through Iodine-125 labeling. There are numerous methods for AgNPs synthesis, but details of important parameters in the synthesis are not available. This study aims to learn the simplest approach to AgNPs synthesis and to determine the critical parameters of stable AgNPs. The synthesis of AgNPs was performed by the reduction method. Silver nitrate was reduced using sodium borohydride and stabilized by using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and NaCl. The critical parameters observed in this study were reducing agent, stabilizer effect and pH. Analysis of AgNPs was performed using a UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Particle Size Analyzer (PSA) and Zeta Potential. The stable AgNPs formation demonstrated a clear yellow solution at a pH of 8 without any sediment. The Surface Plasmon Resonance peaked at around 400 nm by UV-Vis Spectrophotometer analysis. The AgNPs size was measured using TEM which was found to be 20 nm. The analysis using PSA showed that the polydispersity index was 0.369 whereas for Zeta Potential it was -15.93 mV. The presence of reductor and stabilizer had an impact on the product stability. In the simplest approach of stable AgNPs, synthesis must be in exact composition of silver nitrate (1mL, 0.001 N), reductor NaBH₄ (1 mL, 0.002 N), 40 mL PVP 0.3 % (w/v) and 20 mL NaCl 1.5 N, without stirring and temperature setting.

2 illus, 27 ref

028642   SHABARNI G, WAHYUNI H Y, RINI S, TOTO S (Chemistry Dep, Padjadjaran Univ, Indonesia, Email: shabarni.gaffar@unpad.ac.id) : Recombinant anti BNP-SCFV production in Escherichia coli and its application for the detection of heart failure by electrochemical immunosensor using screen-printed carbon electrode-gold nanoparticles (SPCE-GNP). Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 102-7.

Heart failure is a medical emergency when the left ventricle gets expanded and this further stimulates the secretion of the BNP hormone into the blood. BNP can be used as diagnostic and prognostic marker for patients with heart failure. The concentration of BNP in a patient’s blood can be detected through the interaction of BNP with Anti BNP-SCFV antibody fragment. In this study we reported the detection of BNP by using Anti BNP-SCFV-based immunosensor. Recombinant Anti BNP-SCFV was produced in the periplasm of Escherichia coli host. Furthermore, Anti BNP-SCFV was immobilized on the surface of carbon electrode, coated with gold nanoparticles (Screen- Printed Carbon Electrode-Gold Nanoparticles = SPCE-GNP). The result showed that Anti-BNP-SCFV with molecular weight of 28 kDa was successfully produced in E. coli. Standard BNPs with concentration range from 1 pg/mL to 10.000 pg/mL were tested on SPCE-GNP-Anti BNPSCFV immunosensor to determine their sensitivity and detection limit. The detection limit of Anti BNP-SCFV immunosensor was 1.03 pg/mL. Measuring of BNP concentration in normal blood serum by using Anti BNP-SCFV immunosensor showed that the BNP concentration in the normal blood was 0.55 pg/mL. Measurement of serum sample added with BNP showed that the recovery value was 93.5 %. Anti BNP-SCFV immunosensor with SPCE-GNP electrode can be used to detect BNP levels in the blood serum.

5 illus, 26 ref

028647   SULISTYANINGSIH E (Industrial Engineering Dep, Institut Sains and Teknologi AKPRIND Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Email: sulistyaningsih@akprind.ac.id) : Application of molecularly imprinted polymer technique on chitosan membranes for increasing creatinine transport effectiveness. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 58-64.

This work aims to investigate the mechanism of creatinine transport across Molecule Imprinted Polymer (MIP) membrane as well as the mechanical properties of membranes. The material used for making membranes is chitosan, and the molecule used as a printer is creatinine. MIP techniques are used to introduce target sites in order to increase the effectiveness of creatinine transport. Membrane transport effectiveness was tested by modeling the hemodialysis kinetics. The results indicate that transport percentage on MIP chitosan membrane is lower than the chitosan membrane, because not all creatinine was lost during the covering of the membrane pores. However, the membrane flux value of MIP chitosan membrane with a ratio of 0.05:0.0183 was higher compared to other membranes. This indicates that this membrane is the easiest and most convenient for the transport process. The chitosan membrane has a higher water absorption capacity because it has more hydrogen bond allowing for more water binding.

6 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

028638   SAIFUL, MULIADI R, IIHAN M, FADLI, YUSUF M (Syiah Kuala Univ, Banda Aceh - 23111, Indonesia, Email: saiful@unsyiah.ac.id) : Preparation of mixed matrix polymeric membrane for removing of contaminants in crude biodiesel. Res J Chem. Environ 2018, 22(2), 15-21.

The adsorptive membrane had been prepared successfully by embedding purolite particles on polymer chitosan employing phase inversion method. The obtained membranes were characterized and used to purify crude biodiesel from acid, soap-level content and total glycerol. The result has shown that the adsorptive membranes have an open porous structure and the purolite particle surface is available for adsorption of contaminants in which the optimum compositions of the adsorptive membranes were 3 % (g/v) of chitosan, 15 % (v/v) of DMF and 60 % of purolite particles. The porosity and the swelling degree of the membrane were 42.83 % and 51.95 % respectively. The membrane of clean water flux was 254.4 Lm^-2h^-1 at the transmembrane pressure of 1 bar. The obtained membrane has shown a good performance on capturing some contaminants in crude biodiesel. The highest adsorption capacity of the membrane could be obtained at 60 minutes of its contact time and the acid value in biodiesel was reduced from 1.07 to below 0.19 mg/g, agreeing with a standard value. The highest soap adsorption value was up to 78.57 %, which was obtained by using the adsorptive membrane. The total glycerol can be reduced to be above 63.93 % after biodiesel sample treatment with the prepared membrane. Finally, it could be noticed that the membranes can be reused for multiple adsorptions with a high adsorption capacity.

6 illus, 1 tables, 9 ref

028613   DAVID T, GRANDIVORIANA N A, FIDELIS N (Nusa Cendana Univ, Kupang - 85000, Indonesia, Email: david_tambaru@staf.undana.ac.id) : Digital-based image detection system in simple silver nanoparticles-based cyanide assays. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 10-4.

Due to its high toxicity, qualitative and/or quantitative monitoring of cyanide in water is of great importance. The official existing methods for cyanide analysis, however, are not only expensive but also require dedicated instruments and are unsuitable for field oron-site analyses. In the study herein, we demonstrate development of a new, simple, inexpensive and dedicated instrument free method for the determination of cyanide in water using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) along with the digital- based image application as a detection system. In this research, cyanide was quantified based on its ability to quench the colour of AgNPs which was captured by a digital camera and the pixel of the image was then used as the analytical response. The performance of this method was evaluated and compared to that of the spectrophotometric method. It was found that the AgNPs synthesized via reduction of AgNO₃, by NaBH₄ with Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate (SDS) as a stabilizing agent, gave a maximum absorption at a wavelength of 400 nm, confirming the successful formation of AgNPs. This proposed method proved to be comparable and/or dependable in place of the previous methods (such as the spectrophotometric method) as it showed high precision, accuracy, recovery and very low limit of detection which were0.96 % (% RSD); 0.69 % (% E); 97.79 ± 2.93 % and 1.92 ppm respectively.

5 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

028625   LUTFI F M, JUWITA M, IBRAHIM P R, RAKHMAWATY E D, IMAN R (Bengkulu Univ, Bengkulu - 38371, Indonesia, Email: lutfi@unib.ac.id) : Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Jicama extract and its application for colorimetric sensing of mercury ions. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 1-3.

We present a report on the extracellular synthesis, characterization and application of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a sensor for mercury (II) ions detection. AgNPs were synthesized using an aqueous extract of jicama root (Pachyrhizus erosus L.) that acts as a bio reductant. By using sunlight irradiation, synthesis of AgNPs was completed within 60 minutes. The formation of AgNPs was characterized using UV–visible spectrophotometry that gives a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 427 nm. From the FTIR spectra, we inferred that phenolic compounds with hydroxyl functional groups in jicama root are those who are responsible for the reduction processes. The synthesized AgNPs were selective and sensitive to Hg (II) ions. The yellowish-brown color of AgNPs changed into colorless in the presence of Hg (II) ions due to reoxidation of Ag (0) nanoparticles to Ag (I) ions. These findings give a new alternative to the conventional method that usually uses a toxic chemical complexant for mercury ions colorimetric detection such as dithizone, rhodamine B, xylenol orange etc.

4 illus, 12 ref

029910   BANERJEE S (Chemistry Dep, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tirupati - 517 507, Email: shibdas@iisertirupati.ac.in) : Ambient ionization mass spectrometry imaging for disease diagnosis: Excitements and challenges. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 731–8.

Tissue analysis in histology is extremely important and also considered to be a gold standard to diagnose and prognosticate several diseases including cancer. Intraoperative evaluation of surgical margin of tumor also relies on frozen section histopathology, which is time consuming, challenging and often subjective. Recent development in the ambient ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) technique has enabled us to simultaneously visualize hundreds to thousands of molecules (ion images) in the biopsy specimen, which are strikingly different and more powerful than the single optical tissue image analysis in conventional histopathology. This paper will highlight the emergence of the desorption electrospray ionization MSI (DESI-MSI) technique, which is label-free, requires minimal or no sample preparation and operates under ambient conditions. DESI-MSI can record ion images of lipid/metabolite distributions on biopsy specimens, providing a wealth of diagnostic information based on differential distributions of these molecular species in healthy and unhealthy tissues. Remarkable success of this technology in rapidly evaluating the cancer margin intraoperatively with very high accuracy also promises to bring this imaging technique from bench to bedside.

1 illus, 1 table, 61 ref

031158   BHALERAO Y P, WAGH S J (Gujarat Power Engineering and Research Institute, Mehsana - 384460, Email: sjwagh@gmail.com) : A review on thymol encapsulation and its controlled release through biodegradable polymer shells. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(11), 4522-32.

Encapsulation of thymol is important for its volatile nature, taste, and antispasmodic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer and antiinflammatory properties. This review provides a summary of thymol encapsulation in different biodegradable polymers along with the methods of encapsulation and control release in various parts of the body. Biodegradability of shell material along with its health compatibility and the half life of the core material and knowledge of microstructure are some of the main issues that must be addressed while studying encapsulation of Pharmaceutically Active Ingredients (PAI). Different biodegradable polymers used for the encapsulation of thymol are xanthum gum, poly vinyl alcohol (PVA), gelatine, starch, sodium alginate and ethyl cellulose. Preparative conditions, such as concentration ratios, temperature, stirring speed, and nature of solvent used, have deterministic effect on the polymer shell formed around the core material. Purposes for encapsulation of PAI may be numerous, such as controlled release, targeted controlled release, protection/preservation, economic utilization, convenient packaging, and clever option for storage, easy portability and formulation, modification/ hiding undesirable property such as taste, odour and touch. Encapsulation of thymol and its controlled and targeted release in-vitro and in-vivo is discussed.

1 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

031163   RAO M R P, BABREKAR L S (Pharmaceutics Dep, AISSMS Coll of Pharmacy, Pune - 411 001, Email: monicarp_6@hotmail.com) : Liposomal drug delivery for solubility and bioavailability enhancement of Efavirenz. Indian J Pharm Sci 2018, 80(6), 1115-24.

To overcome the limited solubility and low bioavailability of efavirenz a liposomal drug delivery system was formulated using thin film hydration technique. Optimal ratios of total lipid blend:drug, soya lecithin:cholesterol and polyethylene glycol 400 concentration were determined using Box-Behnken design with vesicle size and entrapment efficiency as responses. The optimized liposomal dispersions were characterized by vesicle size, entrapment efficiency, transmission electron microscopy, in vitro drug release and in vivo pharmacokinetics. The vesicle size was found to be in range of 694.5-1200.0 nm and entrapment efficiency was above 80 %. Statistical studies revealed that vesicle size and entrapment efficiency increased with increase in total lipid blend:drug and polyethylene glycol 400 concentration. Transmission electron microscopy showed that unilamellar and multi-lamellar vesicles were formed. Optimized liposomal dispersion was solidified using nanosponges. Solid liposomes were characterized by micromeritics, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and bioavailability. As compared to plain drug a 10-fold increase in percent release was observed in 6 h in liposomal preparation. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies revealed that bioavailability increases 2 folds as compared to plain drug. Lipid-based drug delivery like liposomes are taken up through lymphatic pathway. Since the human immunodeficiency virus settles in lymphoid organs, lymphatic drug delivery can be advantageous in the treatment of acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Thus, the pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that efavirenz-loaded liposomes could significantly upgrade the solubility and oral bioavailability of efavirenz and improve the therapeutic efficacy.

5 illus, 7 tables, 55 ref

031165   RAVI L, KANNABIRAN K (Biomedical Sciences Dep, VIT Univ, Vellore - 632 014, Email: kkb@vit.ac.in) : Extraction and identification of Gancidin W from marine Streptomyces sp. VITLGK012. Indian J Pharm Sci 2018, 80(6), 1093-9.

The present study was aimed to screen and identify antibacterial bioactive nitrogenous secondary metabolites produced by the marine Streptomyces sp. VITLGK012. The antibacterial potential of the extracted compound was studied using agar well diffusion method. Minimal inhibitory concentration of the compound for antibacterial activity was estimated using the plate dilution method. The isolate was characterized by morphological, biochemical and molecular taxonomy using 16S rDNA sequencing. Chloroform extract was prepared and purified by silica gel column chromatography. The nitrogenous fraction was identified with Dragondorff’s reagent. The structure of the pure compound was identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Crude extract of VITLGK012 showed antibacterial activity with a MIC of 0.5 mg/ml against Proteus vulgaris. VITLGK012 strain was identified to be a Streptomyces species based on 16S rDNA sequencing. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis showed the presence of more than 10 molecules in the crude extract. Based on spectroscopic analysis, the extracted compound was found to be nitrogenous in nature and was identified as Gancidin W. The results of the study suggested that Streptomyces sp. VITLGK012 could be a good source for nitrogenous antibacterial secondary metabolites.

8 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

031161   MAHAPARALE P R, NIKAM S A, CHAVAN M S (Pharmaceutics Dep, Dr. D. Y. Patil Coll of Pharmacy, Pune - 411 044, Email: sarikadeshmukh1986@gmail.com) : Development and evaluation of terbinafine hydrochloride polymeric microsponges for topical drug delivery. Indian J Pharm Sci 2018, 80(6), 1086-92.

The objective of the present study was to develop and evaluate sustained delivery of terbinafine hydrochloride from topical polymeric microsponges. Microsponges of ethyl cellulose containing terbinafine hydrochloride were prepared by quasi emulsion solvent diffusion method. Effect of drug polymer ratio on active drug content, particle size and entrapment efficiency were studied. Drug polymer ratio greatly affects properties (entrapment efficiency, active drug content, particle size) of microsponges. Terbinafine hydrochloride microsponges showed highest actual drug content, entrapment efficiency and smaller particle size, so 1.5:1 ratio of drug and polymer was selected for optimization study. Optimization study was carried out by taking internal phase volume, stirring rate, emulsifier concentration as independent variables and their effects on entrapment efficiency, particle size were studied. It was found that as stirring speed increases, the particle size decreases and entrapment efficiency increases, while as volume of dichloromethane increases, particle size decreases. Morphology of obtained microsponges was revealed by scanning electron microscope and was found to be porous and spherical. Optimized formulation of microsponge was dispersed in Carbopol gel and evaluated for drug content, pH, viscosity and in vitro drug release. Release of drug was found to be sustained through microsponge gel as compared to marketed product and pure drug gel. Ex vivo drug deposition study was carried using rat abdominal skin. Drug deposition was found to be satisfactory. Prepared polymeric microsponges could be a potential topical drug delivery system in antifungal therapy.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

031164   RAO M R P, RAUT S P, SHIRSATH C T, JADHAV M B, CHANDANSHIVE P A (Pharmaceutics Dep, AISSMS Coll of Pharmacy, Pune - 411 001, Email: monicarp_6@hotmail.com) : Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of mebendazole for treatment of lymphatic filariasis. Indian J Pharm Sci 2018, 80(6), 1057-68.

Lipid-based self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system was explored to improve the oral bioavailability and target specificity of mebendazole for treatment of lymphatic worm infestations. Ternary phase diagrams were constructed to select suitable oil-surfactant mixture. Liquid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system consisting of Capmul MCM L8, Chromophore RH40 and tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinates a preconcentrate was systematically optimized using 32 full factorial designs. β-cyclodextrin-based nanosponges were used to prepare solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system. Characterization of liquid selfnanoemulsifying drug delivery system was carried out using percent transmission, globule size, zeta potential, polydispersity index and drug content. Globule size in the range of 50-90 nm and zeta potential of –5 to –12 mV was obtained, which co-related well with percent transmission. Powder X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscope of solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system indicated the presence of mebendazole as a molecular dispersion. Ex vivo studies showed nearly five-fold increase in the flux. In vivo studies showed two-fold increase in bioavailability. Significant enhancement in drug dissolution and saturation solubility from solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system resulted in an increase in the bioavailability. Besides this, greater surface area, improved release, P-gp modulation potential of excipients and lymphatic bypass via Peyer’s patches protected drug from hepatic first pass metabolism all of which would contribute to the observed improved bioavailability. Lymphatic transport of drug could achieve target specificity in lymphatic filariasis.

7 illus, 4 tables, 56 ref

031159   GAN L-L, ZHANG H-Z, ZHOU C-H (Linyi Univ, Linyi 276000, Email: zhanghuizhen@lyu.edu.cn) : Design, synthesis and relational biological evaluation of novel diphenylpiperazine 1,2,3-triazole derivatives. Indian J Pharm Sci 2018, 80(6), 1045-56.

A series of novel diphenylpiperazine 1,2,3-triazole derivatives were designed, synthesized and characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance, carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared and mass spectroscopy. The prepared compounds were investigated in vitro for antibacterial, antifungal and cytotoxic activities. Preliminary results showed that nitroimidazole piperazine 14b was active against bacteria Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus proteus, Escherichia coli and Bacillus typhi with MIC values of 25 μg/ ml, but showed moderate activity against Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (MIC- 50 μg/ml). Moreover, the 1,2,3-triazole-linked nitroimidazole piperazine compound 15b and benzimidazole piperazine 15e were found to be effective in vitro against the PC-3 cell line and the cell survival rates were only 67 and 60 %, respectively at a concentration of 100 μM in a dose-dependent manner. Further, molecular docking experiments suggested that the nitro and hydroxyl groups of compound 14b could insert into base-pairs of DNA hexamer duplex by the formation of hydrogen bonds with guanine of DNA.

6 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

031162   MENDES W B, CONSANI S, CORRER-SOBRINHO L, SINHORETI M A C, CONSANI R L X (Prosthodontics and Periodontology Dep, State Univ of Campinas, 13414-903 Piracicaba, SP, Brazil, Email: rconsani@fop.unicamp.br) : Effect of occlusal contact of the loading rod tip on the fracture strength of ceramic crowns. Indian J Dent Sci 2018, 10(4), 203-8.

The aim of this study was to verify the effect of the occlusal contact of the rod tip on the fracture strength of crowns made with different ceramic systems. Conical preparation was performed on bovine teeth with diamond burs in mechanical lathe, and crowns were made for all‑ceramic, metal‑ceramic, In Ceram, and IPS Empress 2 ceramic systems according to manufacturers’ instructions in prosthetic laboratory. The crowns were fixed with resin‑modified glass ionomer cement or dual‑curing composite resin under a static load of 4 kg for 1 min. To simulate the clinical contact between loading and ceramic crowns, the rod tip was made in accordance with the occlusal form of the ceramic crown. After storage in distilled water at 37 ºC for 24 h, the samples were submitted to 60,000 mechanical cycles at a load of 35 N/2 Hz immersed in distilled water. The fracture strength test was performed in an Instron with a cross‑speed of 0.5 mm/min. Data submitted to one‑way ANOVA for randomized experiments followed by Tukey’s test (α = 0.05) showed greater value for IPS Empress 2 (208.12 kgf) with significant difference in relation to all‑ceramic (149.32 kgf) and In Ceram (142.25 kgf), whereas metal‑ceramic showed intermediary value (182.83 kgf). The loading of the rod tip in occlusal contact with the crown did not promote premature failures during the mechanical fatigue test, and two‑ceramic systems showed different values of fracture strength after mechanical fatigue test, with better performance for crowns manufactured with IPS Empress 2.

2 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

031160   KUMARI S, MITTAL A, DADU S, DHAUNDIYAL A, ABRAHAM A, YENDREMBAM B (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, Inderprastha Dental Coll and Hospital, Ghaziabad - 201 010, Email: shilpa.kumari092@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of physical and chemical properties of calcium silicate based root end filling materials (mineral trioxide aggregate and biodentine): An in vitro study. Indian J Dent Sci 2018, 10(4), 197-202.

Evaluation and comparison of solubility, pH, and calcium ion release of calcium‑silicate based root‑end filling materials mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and biodentine. The total sample size for the study was 120. Sixty samples were for solubility of MTA and biodentine and sixty for pH and calcium ion release of MTA and biodentine. MTA and biodentine were added to sixty stainless steel ring molds. The mass of 60 dried glass bottles was measured. Shifting of samples to bottles containing 5 mL of distilled water was done and was stored for 24 h. The bottles were dried at 105 °C and weighed. This procedure was repeated for 3, 10, 30, and 60 days. Data obtained for solubility were analyzed with independent t‑test. Sixty polyethylene tubes 1 mm long were filled with MTA and biodentine and placed in lidded flasks containing 10 mL distilled water and were preserved in an oven at 37 °C. After 2 h, the flasks were removed from hot air oven, and the water was assessed for pH and calcium ion release. pH readings were performed with an pH Meter. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used for the detection of calcium ion release. Preservation of the tubes containing the cements was done in new flasks containing 10 mL of distilled water for further detection of pH and calcium ion release in the different time periods of 6, 24 h and 7, 28 days, respectively. Data were analyzed with independent t‑test. Significantly higher solubility was exhibited for biodentine for 30 and 60 days than MTA. Statistical difference was observed between the solubility, pH, and calcium ion release values of MTA and biodentine. Biodentine exhibited higher solubility, pH, and calcium ion release in comparison with MTA.

3 tables, 27 ref

031166   SAHARUDIN S H, SHARIFFUDDIN J H, ISMAIL A, MAH J H (Malaysia Pahang Univ, Pahang, Malaysia, Email: junhaslinda@ump.edu.my) : Recovering value from waste: Biomaterials production from marine shell waste. Bull Mater Sci 2018, 41(6), 162.

Marine shell waste is rich in calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), which can be a good source for the synthesis of hydroxyapatite (HAP). HAP is a potential component in bone tissue engineering as it possesses similar elements to bone structure. In this study, three different species of marine shells that are normally found in Malaysia, namely shortnecked clam (Paphia undulate), blood cockle (Anadara granosa) and hard clam (Meretrix lyrata) were used to produce CaCO₃ and HAP. The characterization results indicate that the produced CaCO₃ consists of mainly aragonite polymorph. Subsequently, the produced CaCO₃ was used as the calcium source for the formation of HAP through the wet slurry precipitation method. The results from the analyses on crystallinity, functional group, surface morphology and elemental analysis of the synthesized HAP powders that were obtained through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) have confirmed that HAP is comparable with other studies. Overall, the results obtained through this study indicate that it is possible to produce CaCO₃ and HAP from various marine-based shell waste through greener synthesis routes with less chemicals and reaction time.

9 illus, 1 table, 53 ref

031167   TIMOSZYK A (Biotechnology Dep, Zielona Góra Univ, 65-516 Zielona Góra, Poland, Email: a.timoszyk@wnb.uz.zgora.pl) : A review of the biological synthesis of gold nanoparticles using fruit extracts: Scientific potential and application. Bull Mater Sci 2018, 41(6), 154.

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are well-known nanomaterials that can be used for multiple biomedical applications. There are various methods for synthesis of GNPs using microorganisms and plants, particularly through the use of fruit extracts. Their use is due to the fact that fruit extracts are the natural concentrate of substances that possesses therapeutic properties. In this review, we aim to compare the recent studies concerning the methods for synthesis of GNPs from fruit extracts, the methods used to characterize the properties of GNPs and capping biomaterial and the potential applications of GNPs. The most frequently used methods to characterize GNPs and capping biomaterial are UV–visible spectroscopy, transmission or scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy techniques. Because of GNPs’ optoelectronic properties, biocompatibility, stability and oxidation resistance, they can be used in areas such as electronics, chemical and biological sensing, tumour imaging, drug delivery and phototherapy.

3 illus, 2 tables, 126 ref

029912   KANSAL R, RANI S, KUMAR M, KUMAR S, ISSAR G (Prosthodontics Dep, ITS-CDSR, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: drsapnadaksh@gmail. com) : Comparative evaluation of shear bond strength of newer resin cement (Rely X ultimate and Rely X U200) to lithium disilicate and zirconia ceramics as influenced by thermocycling. Contemp Clin Dent 2018, 9(4), 601-6.

The purpose of this study was to compare the shear bond strength of high strength ceramics to cut dentine as influenced by different resin cement types after thermocycling. Shear bond strength testing was carried out for 56 sound, freshly extracted first permanent molars. Specimens were divided at random into 2 groups (n = 28) Lithium disilicate and Zirconia. Lithium disilicate and Zirconia specimens were further subdivided depending upon luting with Rely X ultimate cement bonded with single bond universal adhesive and Rely X U200 cement. Half of the specimens of each material luted with cements were subjected to thermocycling. Shear bond strength was evaluated using Universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 5 mm/ min. Results were compared and evaluated using t-test at a significance level of 0.05. The nature of bond failure was observed under a stereomicroscope for each sample. The mean difference of Lithium disilicate test specimens bonded with Rely X ultimate cement bonded with single bond universal adhesive with and without thermocycling was found to be 42.95+/-17.41MPa and 120.62+/-56.46 MPa respectively. The mean difference of Zirconia test specimens with Rely X ultimate cement bonded with single bond universal adhesive, with and without thermocycling, was found to be 8.74+/-2.90 MPa and 164.28+/-43.78 MPa respectively. The mean difference of Lithium disilicate test specimens bonded with Rely X U200 with and without thermocycling was found to be 2.36+/-0.63 MPa and 36.79.62+/-17.21 MPa respectively. The mean difference of Zirconia test specimens bonded with Rely X U200 with and without thermocycling was found to be 5.96+/3.11 MPa and 122.46+/-23.01 MPa respectively. Zirconia was found to have better shear bond strength than Lithium discilicate. The use of single bond universal adhesive improves bonding to newer higher strength ceramics such as Zirconia. Cohesive failure was predominant at cement dentine interface.

4 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

029917   SUDHAPALLI S K, SUDHAPALLI S, RAZDAN R A, SINGH V, BHASIN A (Prosthodontics Dep, Index Institute of Dental Sciences, Indore - 452 020, Email: swatiudhapalli@yahoo. com) : A comparative evaluation of microleakage among newer composite materials: An in vitro study. Contemp Clin Dent 2018, 9(4), 587-91.

Good adhesive bonding of restorative materials to cavity walls minimizing microleakage is an important criterion for the performance and longevity of a restoration in the oral cavity. The present study is aimed to compare the microleakage among newer composite materials. Forty‑five extracted healthy premolars were collected; standard Class II cavities were prepared. They were randomly divided into three groups of 15 teeth each. The groups were made based on the different composite restorative materials used for restoration. Group A consisted of conventional microfilled composite resin restorations, and Group B was posterior nanocomposite resin. Group C was restored using ORMOCER – Admira. After completion of restorations, all teeth were subjected to thermocycling at 5 °C, 37 °C, and 55 °C for 250 cycles. Later, all samples were immersed into 50 % silver nitrate dye group wise for for 4 hours (h), and teeth were sectioned buccolingually. Sectioned teeth were observed under a stereomicroscope for the evaluation of microleakage. ANOVA and unpaired t‑tests were used for statistical analysis. The significance level was at set P < 0.001. The results of this study showed that Group C (ORMOCER – Admira) presented with the least microleakage followed by Group B (Tetric N‑Ceram) followed by Group A (Tetric Ceram). Overall ORMOCER – Admira performed better than the other two composite materials with the least microleakage.

3 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

029918   ZHANG Y, JEAN-PAUL R, FORNAINI C, ZHEN Y, ZHAO Z, MERIGO E (Stomatology Dep, Côte d’Azur Univ, Nice, France, Email: carlo@fornainident.it) : Erbium-doped, Yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser debonding of porcelain laminate veneers: An ex vivo study. Contemp Clin Dent 2018, 9(4), 570-3.

The use of ceramic laminate veneer has considerably and successfully grown to improve anterior tooth esthetics in recent years. The removal of ceramic laminate veneers with laser is reported only in a scanty number of publications and for this reason the importance and the aim of this ex vivo study consist to verify the ability of Er: YAG laser for laminate veneers debonding with the preserving of the tooth structures (scanning electron microscopy [SEM] observations). The purpose of this study consists to verify if erbium‑doped, yttrium‑aluminum‑garnet (Er:YAG) laser, at low fluences, is able to debond porcelain veneers, successfully used to improve anterior tooth esthetics, without damaging the tooth structures. A total of 12 freshly extracted teeth were used, and samples were decontaminated, stored, and bonded to obtain veneers adhesion. One week after, Er:YAG laser with a non-contact sapphire tip with air‑water spray was used for veneer debonding at 100 mJ of energy and 30 Hz of frequency (Fluence 19.94 J/cm²). Results demonstrated that veneer debonding is possible with an Er:YAG laser and the total number of pulses seems not related to its efficiency. SEM observation confirms that residual tooth structure is not altered when using these low fluences. Low fluences with Er:YAG laser are able to debond veneers while preserving the tooth structures and SEM observation confirmed that residual tooth structure is not altered with low fluences.

4 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

029908   AGNIHOTRI V, BORSE K, BHANDARKAR H, SUBRAMANIAM V, BHARDWAJ S (Microbiology Laboratory, Jalgaon - 425 001, Maharashtra, Email: bhardwaj.sudhanshu@jains.com) : Efficacy of ozone to reduce total viable count, yeast and mould count, coliform count and enterobacteriaceae count in raw onion and dehydrated onion products. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 2811-21.

Microbial food safety and quality issues are of great importance in food processing industry. Various antimicrobial agents including disinfectant used in food processing industry should ensure the quality and microbiological safety of food, also they should not endanger the health through toxic intermediate products. Ozone molecule is a strong oxidant and effective agent to destroy microorganisms. The objective of this study is associated with treatment and effect of ozone to reduce microbial population in raw and dehydrated onion products. Current research focused on determination of the ozone concentration and contact time to reduce microbial load on raw onion and dehydrated onion products. Microbial load in terms of TVC, YMC, CC and EC of raw and dehydrated onion products was monitored initially and after ozone treatment. The average maximum count before and after treatment in terms of Log CFU/g reduction was calculated. Effect of ozone experimentally carried out at three different concentrations of (0.3, 0.5 and 1 ppm) with respect to three different exposure times (1, 3 and 5 minutes), for raw onion, DHO, KO, MN, GR and SP independently. For raw onion 1 ppm ozone for 3 minutes was collectively effective to reduce TVC, YMC, CC, and EC Log CFU/g. For DHO 1 ppm ozone for 3 minutes reduced TVC and CC whereas 0.5 ppm for 5 minute reduced, YMC and EC. For GR, SP, KO and MN, 1 ppm for 3 and 5 minute treatment was found to be effective for total microbial load reduction.

7 illus, 7 tables, 35 ref

029911   BHAWANA H, JOSHI V, SREEDHAR M, MISHRA R P (Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural Univ, Rajendranagar, Telangana, Email: harshambhavana06@gmail.com) : Effect of surface coatings and packaging materials on shelf life attributes of apple ber (Zizyphus mauritiana). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1721-9.

Apple ber (Zizyphus mauritiana) is a Thailand variety ber, developed by grafting Thailand green apple with Thai local ber. In the studies conducted on the effect of surface coatings and packaging materials on shelf life of Apple ber (Zizyphus mauritiana) at different storage conditions S1 -cold storage (10 ± 2 ºC) and S2 -room temperature (22 ± 2 ºC) reported that Chitosan 1 % + HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) is best treatment followed by Chitosan 1 % + PP (Polypropylene). Among both storage conditions fruits stored in cold storage (10 ± 2 ºC) gave better results with an increase of shelf life to 21 days. In interaction effects Chitosan 1 % + HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) + cold storage (10 ± 2 ºC) is best of all the treatments with a shelf life of 21 days followed by Chitosan 1 % + PP (Polypropylene) + cold storage 20 days.

5 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

028641   SATAPATHY P, PARTHASARATHI S, RAO D S S, KANAKALA M, YELAMAGGAD C V, PRASAD S K (Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bengaluru - 560 013, Email: skprasad@cens.res.in) : Influence of zinc oxide nanorods on an orientationally ordered fluid comprising soft-bent dimers. Bull Mater Sci 2018, 41(5), 116.

Bent-core liquid crystals (LCs) introduced a whole new dimension to the science of LCs. Besides re-emphasizing the importance of the shape of the molecule, they brought in phases with symmetry, not known earlier. Another sub-class of systems that is emerging is that of soft-bent molecules. In contrast with the bent-core molecules, here the bend is achieved through the parity of the aliphatic linker that connects two monomers. They hold the unique advantage that a simple variation of temperature can favour different conformer states and thus govern the self-assembled structure. A highlight of the power of this route is seen in terms of the discovery of a new type of nematic, viz., twist–bend nematic. Investigations on not only this phase but also the regular nematic that often precedes it have received significant attention in the last few years. Here we present results on the regular nematic phase of a binary mixture comprising such a soft-bent dimer, known in the literature as CB7CB, by incorporating zinc oxide nanorods (NRs) into the system. The NRs with an aspect ratio of ∼7.2, not very different from that of LCs, further accentuate the importance of shape and shape anisotropy of the entities. Specifically, we observe that the nematic–isotropic transition temperature increases by ∼1.9 K even for a low concentration of 4 % NRs. While the dielectric anisotropy decreases, birefringence shows a substantial increase, adding to the complexity of the influence. Upon addition of minute amount of NRs (1 %), while the splay elastic constant gets enhanced, its bend counterpart not only gets reduced but retains the convex-shaped thermal profile seen for the parent mixture.

10 illus, 27 ref