023925   KIRANKUMAR K C, BASAVARAJ, KHAN A N A (Plant Pathology Dep, COH, Bagalkot, Karnataka, Email: kiranpathology@gmail.com) : Performance of bactericides against bacterial blight of Pomegranate. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 97-101.

Bacterial blight of pomegranate caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae became a serious threat for pomegranate production resulting in yield loss ranged from 60-100 % in Karnataka. Keeping in view, a field trial was conducted in pomegranate farm which was pruned during May month at Sira taluk, Tumkur district, Karnataka. The treatments consisting of antibiotics/bactericides alone or in combination/alternating with other antibiotics in order to evaluate their performance in controlling the disease. As per the data, it is evident that spraying Streptocycline @ 500 ppm + COC @ 0.3% was very effective in reducing the percent leaf infection (82.33%), mean number of spots per leaf (88.33%). and percent of leaf area infection (87.50%). The reduction in number of infected twigs per plant (91.75%), lesion size on twig (81.33%), fruit infection (72.62%) and number of lesions per fruit (83.50% ) compared to control with higher yield level to an extent of 15.25 t/ ha followed by Trimethoprim + Sulphamethoxazole @ 500 ppm + COC 0.3%. However, in control (unsprayed) plants, there was increase in the percent leaf infection (40.65%), mean number of spots per leaf (33.20) and percent of leaf area (75.00%), percent twig infection (41.50%), lesion size on twigs (16.40%), number of lesions per fruit (50.00%) and percent fruit infection (58.82%) over the same period.

3 tables, 7 ref

023924   SEETHARAM D S, RAMAKRISHNA H (Botany Dep, Univ Coll of Science, Hyderabad- 500 004, Email: dsdssiddhu8@gmail.com) : Permian Palaeo-wildfire on Gondwana land : charcoal remains from the Yellandu coalfield, Godavari graben, Telangana state, India. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 93-6.

Microscopic charcoal has been recovered from the sub-surface sediments of bore hole Q-563 of Yellandu coalfield area (Jawahar Khani-5 coal block), kothagudem sub-basin, (Barakar Formation), in the southenrmost part of the Godavari graben, India. These charcoal particles are widely accepted to be of palaeo-wildfire products and this study contributes to the Lower Permian wildfire data of Indian peninsular region. During this time, a global biotic crisis was taking place and changes in the palaeofloristic composition can be observed. The samples were processed by standard palynological method, using acids like HCL, HF and HNO₃ followed by alkali (KOH) treatment. In the present investigation, the microscopic charcoal particles are studied along with are tracheidal elements and palynomorphs related to & gymnosperms were recorded and these confirmed the occurrence of palaeo-wildfires in Yellandu coalfied. This contributes to the understanding of regional changes that took place during Permian period on Gondwana land. The presence of charcoal in Permian sediments associated with coal levels at different localities demonstrates that wildfires have been relatively common events in the peat-forming environments in which the coal formation took place in the Godavari graben.

3 illus, 20 ref

023923   MISHRA K N, JENA D, SAMANTA T K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar- 751 003, Email: khiturajprav@yahoo.co.uk) : Mineralogy of some floodplain soils under lower Mahanadi delta of Odisha. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 88-92.

The mineral assemblage of fine sand and clay fractions of floodplain soils ( Entisols and Inceptisols) in lower Mahanadi delta was investigated using petrographic study, elemental chemical analysis, CEC, molar ratio and X-ray diffraction. The fines and mineralogy is dominated with quartz, orthoclase, plagioclase, micas and opaque, with traces of calcite, garnet and hornblende. Higher orthoclase contents presence of plagioclase indicates that these deposited soils are relatively young.The molar ratio of SiO₂/Al₂O₃ of clays varies from 3.58 to 3.92 indicating the dominance of illite. The clay CEC of 50.6 to 52.7c mol (p⁺)Kg^-1 reflects mixed mineralogy in these soils. The X-ray diffraction of clays with semi-quantitative estimation show varying proportions of kaolinite, illite and smectite group of clay minerals and the relative order of dominance is illite>smectite>kaolinite. The relative similarities in mineralogy of these deposited soils suggest that the clay minerals are mostly inherited from the parent materials with little in situ transformation under prevailing conditions.

1 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

023922   MITRA B, SAMAJDAR T, ISLAM M (ICAR Research complex for NEH Region, Meghalaya- 793 103, Email: mislam01d@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of weed control measures in Jute under Terai zone of West Bengal, India. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 84-7.

Jute is a major each crop in the terai zone of West Bengal covering more 0.15 million hectares of eropped area. High occurrence of pre-monsoon showers coupled with high humidity results in huge weed growth and farmers have to go for a huge expenditure for controlling weeds through hand weeding. An on farm trial has. been carried out for two consecutive years to evaluate cost-effective and eco-friendly weed control measures in jute. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with 12 replicates and straw mulch after thinning as well as application of post-emergence herbicides was assessed against the farmers’ practice of manual weeding only. Application of quizalofop ethyl 5% @ 50 ga.i. ha^-1 at 15-20 days after sowing (DAS) followed by one hand weeding at 35-40 DAS was found to be more effective in controlling the weed population than hand weeding only or straw mulching as reflected from lesser weed dry matter production (11.58 g m^-2) with increased height (306 cm) and basal diameter (12.63 mm) leading to higher fiber yield (3.26 t ha^-1). Similarly, the highest net return (Rs 65,600.00 and Rs 37,920.00 during 2010 and 2011, respectively) and benefit-cost ratio (3.99 and 2.64 during 2010 and 2011, respectively) were also recorded with herbicides treated plots.

2 tables, 7 ref

023921   TRIPATHY P, SAHOO B B, PATEL D, DASH D K (Vegetable Science Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Bhubaneswar- 751 003, Email: ptripathy_ouat05@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of integrated nutrient management modules for Garlic (Allium sativum L.). Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 78-83.

Field experiments were conducted for three consecutive years during rabi of 2010-11 to 2012-13 to study the impact of different INM modules in garlic (Allium sativum L.). The pooled results indicated significant variation for various vegetative growth, bulb yield and yield attributing parameters, bulb quality as well as shelf life of harvested bulbs. Integrated application of 100:50:50:50 NPKS kg ha^-1 + FYM @ 20 tha^-1(T₂) significantly produced highest marketable bulb yield (44.70 q ha^-1) as well as total bulb yield (55.75 q ha ^-1) closely followed by integrated application of @ 75:40:40:40 NPKS kg ha^-1 + FYM @ 7.5 tha ^-1+ PM @ 3.75 tha^-1 (T₆) in garlic variety, Agrifound White with higher BC ratio of 1.38 and 1.29, respectively. The results on storage study revealed significantly better efficacy of INM module, T₂ closely followed by T₄ (75:40:40:40 NPKS kg ha^-1 + PM @ 7.5 tha^-1) and T₈ (75:40:40:40 NPKS kg ha^-1 + PM @ 3.75 tha^-1 + Vermicompost @ 3.75 tha^-1) with respect to % of rotting (10.87 to 12.32%) and total loss while T₂ and T₄ for PLW (10.10 to 12.01%) after four months of storage.

3 tables, 17 ref

023920   KUMAR S, SINGH P K, KUMAR C V S, PATIL R, SULTANA R, SAXENA K B (International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, Patancheru- 502 324, Email: sudhirk121@gmail.com) : Yield potential of CGMS based Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] hybrids. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 73-7.

Hybrid pigeonpea technology, based on cytoplasmic nuclear male-sterility was developed at International Crops Research Institute for the Semi- Arid Tropics (ICRISAT); 20 CMS-based hybrids along with two standard checks, Asha and Maruti were sown for study of yield potential. Among the hybrids, Seed yield (kg ha^-1) was maximum in ICPA 2047 x ICPL 20126 (2635.36kg ha^-1) .Out of 22 genotypes, seven hybrids were showed significantly high Seed yield (kg ha^-1) over best check Asha (1636.30kg ha^-1) and general mean (2095.91 kg ha^-1) both. The range of seed yield (kg ha^-1) varies from 1381.99 kg ha^-1 (Maruti) to 2635.36 kg ha^-1 (ICPA 2047 x ICPL 20126).

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

023919   BEGUM S, DEVI N S, MARAK T R, YUMLEMBAM R A (Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur- 741 252, Email: salmabegumsalmabegum@gmail.com) : Seasonal incidence of chilli Anthracnose in West Bengal region. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 70-2.

The field experiment was conducted in 2012 to study the seasonal incidence of anthracnose in relation to weather parameters chilli (variety bullet). The disease severity (PDI) was assessed at seven days interval up to the harvesting of the crop and Statistically correlated with the nine meteorological parameters. It was observed that the onset of the disease was at 60 DAT (8.24%) which progresses significantly and reached peak at 137 DAT (33.53%). Disease severity was positively and significantly correlated with RH_max (0.681) and RH_min (0.669). While other factors like T_max (-0.799), T_min (-0.781), W_v (-0.872) and VPII (-0.717) were negatively and highly correlated with disease severity R_t and S_hr were positively correlated with disease severity but were not significant.

2 tables, 8 ref

023918   PARMAR D, PATEL N L, AHMAD T, PATEL A, KUMAR V (Centre of Excellence on Post Harvest Technology, Coll of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari, Gujrat, Email: vkskumar49@gmail.com) : Effect of pre-coolong packaging material on chemical and sensory quality of Guava fruits [ Psidium guajava (Linn.)] Cv Allahabad Safeda. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 64-9.

Guava is the fifth largest fruit commodity in the world, which is grown throughout the tropical area of India. However, excellent qualities of guavas are grown in Allahabad region of UP (India). In guava three flushes occur in tropical regions among these mrig bahar results in excellence quality of fruits which are harvested in December to January. The storage life of guava is very short which a major hurdle in long distance transportation. Considering these aspects it is very important to enhance the shelf life of guava. Research was planned to enhance of storage life of guava through pre-cooling (pre-cooling for 10°C for 8 h and without pre-cooling), packaging (LDP pouch of 200 and 400 gauge of 1.2% vent and without vent) and Storage (10°C, 12°C and 15°C in cold chamber). Pre-cooling at 10°C, packing in LDPE bags of 200 gauge thickness without vents followed by storage at 10°C resulted in optimum quality and minimal spoilage.

1 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

023917   YADAV H K, DAVID A A, THOMAS T, NARENDER, KUMAR A (Soil Science Dep, Sam Higgins Bottom Institute of Agricultural Technology & Sciences, Allahabad, Email: harendray3@gmail.com) : Influence of sewage sludge on the mobility of heavy metals in Inceptisol. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 58-63.

Application of sewage sludge on agricultural field at soil science research farm led to the accumulation of DTPA-Pb from 0.35 to 0.98 ppm, DTPA- Cd from 0.05 to 0.98 ppm and DTPA-Ni from 0.32 to 0.53 ppm in surface soil (0-15 cm). A very low amount of Pb, Cd and Ni was observed in 30-45 cm depth in comparison to surface soil (0-15 cm) in the soil examined indicating less mobility of heavy metals in down depth. The DTPA-extractable Pb, Cd and Ni contents of sewage sludge applied soil decreased with increasing soil depth. The soil organic carbon content in sewage sludge soils was positively and significantly affect soil properties like pH, electical conductivity(EC), OC (%), available N, available P and available K exhibited positive relationship with DTPA-extractable Pb, Cd and Ni content in soil. The Pb, Cd and Ni contents in mustard grown crop on sewage sludge applied soil were higher as compared to grown on control soil. The treatments consisted of four sewage sludge levels (0, 4, 8 and 12 t ha^–1) and four levels of inorganic fertilizer (0, 50, 75 and 100% RDF) was recorded significantly.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

023916   KUMAR S, DWIVEDI D K, KUMAR R, KUMAR N (Agronomy Dep, R. A.U, Smastipur- 848 125, Email: Shantanusingh416@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen and potassium levels on growth and yield of potato(Solanum tuberosum L.) under Indo-Gangetic plain zone of Bihar. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 55-7.

A field experiment was conducted on sandy loam soil during rabi season of 2014-15 to study the effect of three levels of nitrogen (75, 150,225 kg/ha) and four levels of potassium (50, 100, 150 and 200 kg/ha) on growth attributes, tuber yield and tuber population of potato. Tuber yield was significantly increased with increased N and K application. Maximum tuber yield was recorded under treatment with 225 kg N/ha and 200 kg K,O/ha (30.45 t/ha) which at par to treatment with 225 kg N/ha and 150 kg N/ha (30.21 t/ha) and minimum tuber yield of 12.31 t/ha was recorded under control plot (N_oK_o). Tuber size was also influenced by increasing potassium levels under all potato grades i.e. 25-50g, 50-75g and >75 g.

2 tables, 6 ref

023915   PRADEEPIKA C, GASTI V D, KUMARI T V, EVOOR S C, RATHOD V, RAI P S (Vegetable Science Dep, Univ of Horticultural Science, Arabhavi- 581 218, Email: pradeepikachintha@gmail.com) : Per se performance of Pumpkin genotypes (Cucurbita moschata Duch.Ex. Poir.). Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 51-4.

Evaluation of ten pumpkin genotypes collected from various sources was carried out. Observations were recorded on the following traits viz. vine length at 90 days after sowing, days to first female flower appearance, node number for first female flower appearance, sex ratio, days to fruit harvest, number of fruits per vine, average fruit weight, fruit diameter, number of seeds per fruit, 100 seed weight and fruit yield per vine along with quality traits such as flesh thickness and total soluble solids. Among the genotypes, KP-41 followed by KP-25 and KP-2 recorded the highest mean value of fruit yield.

2 tables, 6 ref

023914   PRADEEPIKA C, GASTI V D, KUMARI T V, EVOOR S C, RATHOD V, RAI P S (Vegetable Science Dep, , Nellore- 524 201, Email: pradeepikachintha@gmail.com) : Heterosis and combining ability analysis for productivity traits in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch. Ex. Poir.). Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 45-50.

Exploitation of heterosis or hybrid vigor is an important approach of crop improvement adopted in many of the crops all over the world. Gene action studies showed predominant non-additive gene ac tion for most of the characters. The lines, Belagavi Local (7.46) and KP-41 (1.76), among the testers Pusa Vikas (2.18) were identified as the good general com biners for fruit yield per vine in order of their merit. The hybrids KP-25 ~ Pusa Vishwas (3.16) followed by KP-41 x Pusa Vishwas (2.28), KP-33 ~ Pusa Vikas (1.94), KP-53 x Pusa Vikas (1.85) and KP-2 Arka Chandan (1.11) were identified as good specific com biners for total fruit yield per vine.

3 tables, 6 ref

023913   ANGADI C, MANJULA S M, BASAVARADDER A B, MADHURA C, PATIL S S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Email: chandru4103@gmail.com) : Identification of high yielding lines in F7 generation Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) of G hirsutum x G hirsutum Cotton . Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 39-44.

Total 173 lines of intra hirsutum cross were evaluated in Alpha design. Analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits studied. The range for yield was 0.89 to 15.08 q/ha with the parental mean 6.71 g/ ha (RS-2013) and 9.07 q/ha (P-56-4). Higher heritability observed for traits like days to 50% flowering (0.68), boll weight (0.71), ginning out turn (0.99), seed index (0.89) and seed cotton yield (0.74). The higher genetic advance as per cent mean shown by traits like number of bolls per plant (27.10%), number of monopodia (66.21%), ginning out turn (15.04%), seed index (23.22%) and lint index(31.28%). RILs 13,113,130,49,21,139,103,15,144,120,44,136,48 and 112 selected as superior genotypes. The recombinant inbreed line-15 produced the highest yield of 15.08 q/ha.

4 tables, 11 ref

023912   SURESH, SHIVAKUMAR MS, CHANDRAKANT, RAMESH S, KEERTHI C M (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru) : Breeding potential of crosses in Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L. Sweet Var lignosus). Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 33-8.

Breeding potential of three crosses derived from parents contrasting for fresh pod yield plant^-1 was predicted based on the contribution of 10 quantitative trait means and phenotypic coefficient of variation in F₂ and F₃ generations in dolichos bean. Based on the quantitative traits means per se in F₂ and F₃ generations, HA-11-3 x RIL 180 was predicted to have better breeding potential in terms of chances of recovering desirable recombinant inbred lines (RILs) in advanced generations. However, increasing trend in quantitative trait means and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) from F₂ to F₃ generations suggested better breeding potential of HA-10-8 X RIL 180 and FPB 21 x RIL 180 in advanced generations. Identification of RILs superior to the check HA 4 in F₅ generation derived from HA-10-8 x RIL 180 indicated the utility of quantitative trait means and variances in early segregating generations for predicting the breeding potential of crosses to maximize the frequency of desirable RILs in advanced generations.

5 tables, 6 ref

023911   SHASHIKUMAR, ANANTACHAR M, PRAHLAD (Farm Machinery and Power Engineering Dep, CAE, Raichur, Email: shashibtech935@gmail.com) : Palatability and effect on dairy cows milk yield and its constituents of dried arecanut sheath used as alternative fodder. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 29-32.

Palatability checking of the different chopped length of arecanut sheath after shredding operations by arecanut sheath shredder is collected at all the treatment. The collected chopped material obtained with different chopped size that was fed to the five HF deoni cross breed cows which were in same lactation. The experimental trial was conducted for four week control group for five HF deoni cross breed cows and two week adaptation period for another five HF deoni cross breed cows as followed by a two week response period for the same group. The highest milk yield of 9.3 kg day' during control period was recorded but it is gradually decreased during adaption period and response period till 8 kg days. The highest percentage of milk composition such as Solid Not Fat (SNF), Fat, Lactose, Protein and Density of milk was recorded during control period, but it is gradually decreased during adaption period and response period.

3 tables, 3 ref

023910   KUMAR S, KUMAR S, MAJI S, PANDEY V K (Applied Plant Science Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Lucknow- 226 025, Email: sanjay123bhu@gmail.com) : Effect of inorganic fertilizers and bio-fertilizers on growth, yield and quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) . Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 25-8.

The present experiment was carried out during vear of 2013-14. The experiment was laid out in randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications.The row to row and plant to plant spacing were maintained at 30 x 10 cm respectively. The treatment combinations were control, Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF), Azotobacter, Azospirillum, PSB, 50% RDF + 50% Azotobacter, 50% RDF + 50% Azospirillum, 50% RDF + 50% PSB, 50% Azotobacter + 50% azospirillum, 50% Azotobacter + 50% PSB, 25% PSB + 25% Azospirillum+ 25% RDF + 25% Azotobacter 50% PSB + 50% Azospirillum. The observations were recorded i.e. plant height (cm), number of leaves, length of leaves (cm), length of root (cm), root di ameters (cm), fresh weight of leaves (g), dry weight of leaves (g),root weight (q/ha), yield(t/ha),vitamin C (mg/100g),reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, total sugar and T.S.S.(oBrix). From the analysis of data, it can be concluded that the application of 25% PSB +25% Azospirillum+25% Azotobacter (T12) increased the growth, yield and nutritional quality of Radish under Lucknow condition.

1 table, 8 ref

023909   BRAHMA A, DAS S, KUMAR D, PANDIT S, GHOSH J D, JAS R (Veterinary Parasitology Dep, West Bengal Univ of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Sarani- 700 037, Email: ruma_k007@yahoo.co.in) : Epizootiology of gastrointestinal helminthoses in Garole sheep of organized farm in West Bengal . Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 21-4.

Gastroenteritis and its associated disease caused by helminth parasites is a major hindrance for optimum productivity in small ruminants. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths (GIH) and intensity of gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection in Garole sheep of one organized farm at Mohanpur campus of the West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences in Nadia. A total of thirty sheep in the age group of three months to one year were selected and coprologically screened by standard technique for a period of one year (from November 2012-October 2013). The overall prevalence of GIH infection was 72.49%. Highest overall prevalence (79.16%) as well as intensity of GIN infection (647) was observed in monsoon and lowest prevalence (68.33%) and intensity (402.5) was recorded in summer. Haemonchus contortus was recorded as the predominant species with an overall prevalence of (64.5%). The results of the present study might be exploited for planning strategic control measures against naturally occur ring GI helminths in sheep of organized farms.

2 illus,1 table,11 ref

023908   SANTHOSH B, REDDY S N, PRAYAGA L, REDDY T D (Crop Physiology Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Email: santosphysio12@gmail.com) : Effect of moisture stress on sunflower genotypes at seedling stage. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 16 - 20.

The experiment with thirty nine sunflower genotypes screened by subjecting them to water stress in the laboratory by treating with PEG (poly ethylene glycol) solution at different concentrations viz., 0.0, -0.2, -0.4, -0.6 and -0.8 MPa. Root length, shoot length and seedling dry weight were observed to be decreased with increase in osmotic stress. Increase in root length as a result of drought stress has also been observed due to higher osmotic adjustment ability of drought tolerant genotypes. The decline in seedling vigor was due to fall in mobilization of reserves to plumule thus preventing their growth under stress. These germination responses are not necessarily correlated with seedling growth response but the drought stress severely reduce the growth and biomass of the plant. However the genotypes differed in response to stress at different concentrations of PEG at various stages of development.

3 tables, 10 ref

023907   HULAGAPPA, HARLAPUR S I (Plant Pathology Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad- 580 005, Email: hulagappaagri@gmail.com) : Morphological and cultural variability of Drechislera maydis (Nisikado) Subram. and Jain. casual agent of maydis leaf blight of maize. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 11-5.

The variability studies were carried out for twelve isolates collected from different places. Morphological and cultural variability of twelve isolates were studied under identical conditions. Among the twelve isolates, isolate Dm 1 was found to be fast growing, high sporulating with deep black pigmentation. Maximum number of isolates produced elliptical conidia with four septa. Maximum size of conidia was observed in Dm10 (60.18 um long x 14.74 um wide). Among the five solid media studied, puthogen produced maximum growth Potato Dextrose Agar medium (79.95 mm) followed by Corn meal agar (77.02 mm), minimum growth was observed on Potato Dextrose X Yeast (74.38 mm).

1 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

023906   SHASHIKUMAR, ANANTACHAR M, VEERANGOUDA M, PRAKASH K V , PRAHLAD (Farm Machinery and Power Engineering Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Email: shashibtech935@gmail.com) : Development and performance evaluation of arecanut sheath shredder. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 7-10.

Arecanut sheath is one of the important raw materials obtained from the arecanut palm. The sheath attached to the leaf of arecanut tree not only used for commercial plate making. But recently the arecanut sheath was investigated to use as a dry fodder for cattle. The available machineries for chop making have been tried to chop the arecanut sheath into suitable fodder size. However due to physical and biological characteristics of the arecanut sheath, none of them were found suitable to get desired size. Hence, arecanut sheath shredder was designed and developed for chopping of the arecanut sheath used as a fodder for cattle. The performance of arecanut sheath shredder was evaluated at three different cylindrical cutterhead speeds (13.1, 15.71 and 18.33 ms^-1), three feed roller speeds (0.28, 0.36 and 0.45 ms^-1) and numbers of knives (2, 3 and 4) was used, the effect of these operational parameters on chopping length and output capacity was determined. The total costs of operation of arecanut sheath shredder were found to be 195 Rs h^-1.

1 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

023905   PAVITHRA K P, PATIL R S, HARIJAN Y, PATIL B R (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad- 580 005, Email: yallnh4496@gmail.com) : Genetic diversity revealed by SSR markers in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) germplasms. Envir Ecol 2017, 35(1), 1- 6.

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is mainly grown as oilseed crop in the arid and semiarid regions of the world. The present study was aimed at estimating genetic variation of 118 genotypes using 38 SSR primers and screened 20 markers generated amplicons in the 118 accessions. Out of 20 amplified markers, 8 markers showed polymorphism. A total of 48 amplicons (alleles) were scored for 20 SSR loci with a range of 1–8 alleles per locus with an average of 2.4 alleles per locus. The polymorphic information content value (PIC) calculated ranged from 0.00 to 0.66 with an average of 0.097 per marker. The safflower germplasms were divided into two main clusters each contained 5 sub clusters. Results of analysis of molecular variance showed a significant difference between germplasms.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

023904   ABU-RIZAIZA A, KADI M W , EL-SHAHAWI M S (Environmental Science Dep, King Abdulaziz Univ, Saudi Arabia, Email: malsaeed@kau.edu.sa) : Activated carbon from fly ash of heavy fuel oil: Characterization and its utilization for removal and determination of chlorophenonls in water. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(3), 1103-16.

Activated carbons (AC) prepared from volatile fly ash (FA) of heavy fuel oil via gasification with combined steam - CO₂ was characterized and used as a low- cost adsorbent for removal of chlorophenols (CPs) e.g. 2-chlorophenol (2-CP), 4-chlorophenol (4-CP), and 2,4,6- tetra chlorphenol (TCP) in water. At pH< 2.0, maximum CPs uptake was achieved and the average half-life time (t_1/2) of the equilibrium adsorption of CPs was in the range 0.80 ± 0.01- 1.1 ± 0.04 h. Data suggested use of AC in packed column for separation and determination of various concentrations (0.5-100 ?gL^-1) of CPs in water (0.5-1.0 L). Complete extraction and recovery (97.4 + 2.9 %, n=5) of CPs were achieved at 2 mL min^-1 flow rate. Analysis of CPs spiked onto tap- and seawater were also analyzed by AC packed column and the results were compared with the standard HPLC method at 95% confidence (P-0.05, n=5). The experimental student t test (texp 1.81-1.93) and F (Fexp 1.21-5.76) values were lower than the tabulated t (tcrit. = 2.78) and F (6.38), respectively. AC packed column provides remarkable selectivity, reproducibility, and cost-effectiveness towards removal and/ or determination of CPs. AC adsorbent may serve positively in point-of-care use.

9 illus, 4 tables, 40 ref

023903   AHMAD F, GOPARAJU L (Vindhyan Ecology and Natural History Foundation, Uttar Pradesh, Email: adfiroz@yahoo.com) : Predicting forest cover and density in part of Porhat forest division, Jharkhand, India using geospatial technology and Markov chain. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(3), 961-76.

The increasing population has posed a threat to the existence of the forests, which provide many services to us. Of late, they seem to be degraded, deforested and converted into other land use classes. In such situation, it becomes necessary to monitor and analyze the changes such that in future protection measures are enforced suitably. Geospatial technology, which is a combination of satellite remote sensing data, GIS and GPS offers better prospective in analyzing the changes in natural resources over various spatial scales and spectral resolutions. The present study aims to study both qualitatively and quantitatively, analyzing and predicting the changes in forest cover by generating forest cover classification map, area statistics, transition matrix in part of Saranda forest of West Singbhum district of the state of Jharkhand, India using remote sensing and GIS. The study evaluates the magnitude, rate and dynamics of change in the spatial extent of the forest between 1975 and 2015 using multi-temporal datasets (Landsat MSS 1975, ETM+ 1999 and OLI/TIRS 2015. The analysis revealed that the dense forests periodically are showing a decreasing trend which constitutes approximately 50%, 33% and 27% of the study area in 1975, 1999 and 2015 respectively. Finally using Markov chain analysis (MCA) forest cover area statistics was predicted for the year 2031. This analysis would help to have a holistic view of the future scenario of forests which would guide the policy makers and managers. Strict policy implementation to safeguard the forests against various anthropogenic pressures and community involvement is necessary to prevent further destruction of forests.

9 illus, 8 tables, 48 ref

023902   AHMAD I, REHAN M, BALKHYOUR M A, ISMAIL I M (Environmental Science Dep, King Abdulaziz Univ, Jeddah- 215 89, Email: mrehan@kau.edu.sa) : Assessment of occupational health and safety in motor vehicle repair workshops in Jeddah. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(3), 901-13.

This study aims to examine the occupational health and safety (OHS) status in motor vehicle repair workshops (MVRW) industry in the city of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). An inspection tool composed of 10 OHS components and 69 items was employed through observations, interviews, walk through survey and focused group discussions. The data was collected from local workshops (LWs, N=62) and multinational companies’ workshops (CWs, N=11). The mean positive response for OHS components among surveyed LWs and CWs was as follow; personal protective equipment’s (PPEs) (28% and 61%), fire protection and emergency management (52% and 91%), provision of facilities (69% and 94%), electric safety (44% and 82%), general workshop safety (43% and 82%), housekeeping (18% and 84%), chemical exposure (16% and 69%), maintenance and services (54% and 86%), manual handling (84% and 100%) and tool safety (58% and 91%), respectively. The overall OHS mean positive response, complying best practices and regulations, of all OHS elements in LWs was 47% which was much lower than 84% positive response for CWs. The impact of OHS on workers’ health was also discussed together with recommendations given for further improvement.

10 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

023901   CHOROL S, ANGCHOK D, ANGMO P, TAMCHOS T, SINGH R K (Defence Institute of High Altitute Research, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir, Email: achuk_iari@rediffmail.com) : Traditional knowledge and heirloom root vegetables: Food security in trans himalayan Ladakh, India. Indian J Tradit Know 2018, 17(1), 191-7.

This study elaborates the role of heirloom vegetables coming down from generations to generations into the life support system of native Ladakhi highlanders (in the trans-Himalaya region of India). The study was conducted with 165 Ladakhi men and women using a combination of personal interviews and participatory methods indicated that heirloom vegetables are known for their taste, colour, shape and adaptability among Ladakhi people, and form an integral part of their food system during the period of scarcity, especially during the winter months when the region remains landlocked. Due to unfavourable conditions caused by severe cold, high altitude and a short growing season the production of many vegetable varieties are hampered. During such periods, the heirloom root vegetables available in the region with higher shelf life are of immense utility in securing the food security of the local community. However, the introduction of new varieties is posing a threat to the traditional heirloom root vegetables, and many are in verge of extinction accompanied by decreasing trend in their growing percentage. These vegetables are stored for consumption during winter, although the trend is currently declining. If the same trend continues, appropriate in situ conservations interventions are needed.

1 illus, 2 tables,17 ref

023900   SHARMA L, SAMANT S S, KUMAR A, LAL M, DEVI K, TIWARI L M (G B Pant National institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Dev, Himachal Pradesh, Email: samantss2@rediffmail.com) : Diversity, distribution pattern, endemism and indigenous uses of wild edible plants in cold desert biosphere reserve of indian trans himalaya. Indian J Tradit Know 2018, 17(1), 122-31.

Wild edible plants form an important source as a supplement/substitute food in times of scarcity for native communities. Use of wild plants as a food source is an integral part of the culture of tribal people. Therefore, the present study has been conducted in Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve (CDBR) of Trans Himalaya to; (i) assess the diversity and distribution pattern of wild edible plants; (ii) analyze for nativity and endemism; (iii) assess the indigenous uses and traditional practices; (iv) document the nutritional content of selected wild edible plants; and (v) suggest suitable management options. Total 91 wild edible plants, representing 64 genera and 31 families were recorded. Of these, 35 species were native, 02 species endemic and 19 species were near endemic. Various plant parts such as leaves (46 spp.), stems/shoots (18 spp.), fruits (17 spp.), etc., were eaten raw, roasted, boiled and cooked. The nutritional value of some of the wild edibles competes with the cultivated crops and vegetables. Therefore, to ensure the food security in the remote areas, there is a need to assess the populations of these species using quadrate method; develop conventional and in vitro propagation protocols for mass multiplication and their conservation in the in situ and ex situ conditions; and create awareness among the local inhabitants about the food value of these plants.

2 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

023899   SUBERI B, TIWARI K R, GURUNG D B, BAJRACHARYA R M, SITAULA B K (Natural Resources Dep, Royal Univ of Bhutan, Lobesa, Bhutan, Email: bsuberi.cnr@rub.edu.bt) : People's perception of climate change impacts and their adaptation practices in Khotokha valley, Wangdue, Bhutan. Indian J Tradit Know 2018, 17(1), 97-105.

Climate change is expected to have serious environmental, economic, and social impacts in mountainous regions worldwide. Rural communities that depend on farming, livestock rearing and natural resources for their livelihoods are likely to be affected by its adverse impacts. This study was carried out to understand one community's perceptions and experiences of climate change and to assess the people's use of forest resources and possible implications for climate change adaptation. The study was conducted through semi-structured questionnaires. The entire population of 67 households was surveyed for the study. The household data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency and inferential statistical tests, namely, parametric t-test and chi-square. The study revealed that a majority of people in the community (79 %) were aware of climate change. Over ninety per cent of the local people depend mainly on cultivation of potato and rearing livestock for their livelihood. The results indicated that climate change and variability have affected the lives of the local people who have developed adaptation strategies in their own way to cope with it. Local people cited impacts including reduced precipitation and an irregular rainfall pattern, which affects potato cultivation and winter fodder production. Production has also been affected by an increased in insect pests. Additionally, new invasive/weed species are reported to be colonizing the pasture land, preventing the regeneration of preferred grass species for grazing. Use of forest products such as fuel wood, flag post, fencing post and litter in particular, have decreased because of available alternatives. Over eighty per cent of those interviewed the need of government support.

5 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

023898   NWAFOR F I, TCHIMENE M K, ONYEKERE P F, NWEZE N O, ORABUEZE C I (Pharmacognosy and Environmental Medicines Dep, Univ of Nigeria, Enugu State, Nigeria, Email: felix.nwafor@unn.edu.ng) : Ethnobiological study of traditional medicine practices for the treatment of chronic leg ulcer in South eastern Nigeria. Indian J Tradit Know 2018, 17(1), 34-42.

A comprehensive survey was carried out to document plants and non-plant materials used in traditional medicine practices for the treatment of chronic leg ulceration in 13 randomly selected Local Government Areas in Anambra and Enugu States of South east Nigeria. Semi-structured questionnaires as well as informal interviews were administered on 92 respondents, including specialist herbalists, local herb sellers, hunters and other groups of people rich in traditional medicine knowledge. Photography and short interviews were conducted on some of the patients met in some popular herbal clinics to obtain their perspectives of the disease. All interviewed respondents gave descriptions that fitted exactly into the general diagnosis of leg ulcer but with different methods of preparation and modes of administration of the herbal recipes. Thirty six (36) recipes prepared from 78 plants and 14 non-plant materials were documented as described by the respondents. The 78 plants spread across 41 families. Herbal products were administered orally and by topical application. This study can form a basis through which pharmaceutical industries can screen these plant species and possibly come out with useful medicines for treatment of chronic leg ulceration and other related forms of skin ulcer.

4 illus, 2 tables, 48 ref

023897   BORA M, GOSWAMI D C (National Remote Sensing Centre (ISRO), Guwahati- 781 014, Email: bora1989@rediffmail.com) : Channel morphology and hydraulic geometry of River Kolong, Nagaon district, Assam, India: A study from the standpoint of river restoration. Curr Sci 2017, 113(4), 743-51.

River Kolong of Nagaon district, Assam, India has been facing serious degradation since 1964 as a result of building of an embankment across the river at its take-off point from River Brahmaputra.The river Kolong, once a thriving anabranch (distributary) of the Brahmaputra marked by its active navigability, rich biodiversity and high productivity, is presently in a moribund state. Under these circumstances, the issue of eco-hydrological restoration of the river gained added urgency among the people living in its valley. The ‘natural-channel design approach’ for river restoration based on the estimates of natural channel geometry and discharge is presently being applied in rivers across the globe. Adopting a similar approach in this study, based on field measurements, we determine the baseline channel dimensions (bankfull width, mean bankfull depth, bankfull cross-section, flood- prone width and entrenchment ratio) across the river at four different sites, so that these parameters can be utilized in natural channel design process for restoration purpose. The study reveals that, the river is significantly entrenched with entrenchment ratio varying from 1.19 to 1.79. Moreover, bankfull discharge has also been determined and values are found to be varying from 13.85 to 918.36 cumec in the downstream direction, with an average return period of 1.7 years. The average values of ‘at-a-station’ hydraulic geometry exponents b, f and m are 0.22, 0.38 and 0.4 respectively, while the average values of downstream direction exponents b, f and m are found to be 0.32, 0.23 and 0.44 respectively. These values compare well with those arrived at by pioneering workers in this field and are considered useful in river restoration programmes.

9 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

023896   BOTHALE R V, ANOOP S, RAO V V, DHADHWAL V K (National Remote Sensing Centre (ISRO), Hyderabad- 500 037, Email: rbothale@gmail.com) : Understanding relationship between melt/freeze conditions derived from spaceborne scatterometer and field observations at Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica during austral summer 2015–16. Curr Sci 2017, 113(4), 733-42.

Snow fork and ground penetrating radar at 200 MHz were used for snow depth, wetness and density measurements towards understanding the relationship between melt/freeze conditions derived from spaceborne Advance Scatterometer (ASCAT) and Oceansat-2 Scatterometer (OSCAT), and field observations. The observations were acquired at Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica in austral summer of 2015–16 during the 35th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica. The field observations of wetness correlated well with identified dry and percolation zones showcasing different behaviours of density and wetness. Ice firn was observed at 50–55 cm depth, even in dry zone. Melt onset and number of melt days based on ASCAT varied spatially and temporally over the years and correlated well with positive degree day (PDD) for automatic weather station data located at the Indian Antarctic station, Bharati. Backscatter measurements by OSCAT showed that winter backscatter reduced with accumulation for both dry and percolation zones, but increased in the later part of winter in the percolation zone. A positive but low correlation was observed between ASCAT backscatter to accumulation and the surface mass balance from regional atmospheric climate model (RACMO2.3). A high correlation of 0.78 was observed between reduction in backscatter due to liquid water content and PDD, which coincides with field observations of wetness. The observations serve as baseline to monitor melt conditions and stability of existing ice sheet.

11 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

023895   VERMA C, DAS A J, KUMAR R (Environmental Microbiology Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Lucknow- 226 025, Email: rajesh_skumar@yahoo.co.in) : PGPR-assisted phytoremediation of cadmium: an advancement towards clean environment. Curr Sci 2017, 113(4), 715-24.

One of the major problems, that the world is facing today due to rapid industrialization is environmental pollution caused by several factors, including heavy metals. Among the heavy metals, cadmium is a hazardous carcinogenic element. From contaminated soil, cadmium enters the plants through the roots and is accumulated in the harvestable (edible) parts, and thus gains entry into the food cycle. Phytoremediation plays a beneficial role in the remediation of cadmium contamination from soil, but becomes less effective with increasing toxicity. Even hyperaccumulator plants fail to perform under these conditions. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), inhabitants of the plant rhizosphere, play a supporting role and promote bioremediation of soil by accumulation or transformation of contaminants, thereby enhancing plant growth and development. This article focuses on cadmium contamination and PGPR-assisted phytoremediation of cadmium-contaminated soils.

8 illus, 2 tables, 89 ref

023894   LYNGDOH S, DIXIT D, SINHA B C (Wildlife institute of India, Dehradun-248 001, Email: bcs@wii.gov.in) : Print mass media coverage of wildlife in the developing world. Curr Sci 2017, 113(4), 564-70.

Wildlife news is assumed to be a less commonly reported item in the media. We studied wildlife related news coverage by the Indian print news agencies and quantified its patterns by reviewing 766 news items across 50 national, regional and business newspapers in the year 2011. We found a considerable size bias towards large bodied species (1 : 8 times) in portrayal of wildlife news items. The Indian print media was also more likely to report large, endangered, terrestrial mammals when they reported about wildlife. Nearly half of the wildlife reports by dailies were on tigers (>250) and other endangered large felids (>150). A tendency towards controversial portrayals with respect to species such as leopards and elephants was observed. We found similar pattern of reporting between national, regional and business newspapers with respect to species and themes covered. Business dailies rarely carried wildlife related news (5 items). It is suggested that a balanced and ecological approach to sensitize the masses by various agencies can be adopted to reduce misconceptions and increase acceptance.

3 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

023893   GU X, SHAO J, CUI Y, HAO Q (School of Water Re-Sources and Environment, China, Email: jshao@cugb.edu.cn) : Calibration of two-dimensional variably saturated numerical model for groundwater flow in arid inland basin, China. Curr Sci 2017, 113(3), 403-12.

Alluvial fan is an important recharge area for arid and semi-arid inland basins. In order to study groundwater circulation and quantify recharge amount of the groundwater system in arid inland basins, it is necessary to use numerical models. In this study, a 2D variably saturated numerical model of a typical profile has been developed using EOS 9 module of TOUGH2. The mesh for the fine soil plain area was refined compared with previous studies and the minimum cell size was 0.1 m in thickness. An improved approach in TOUGH2 was applied to calculate the groundwater evapotranspiration more efficiently and characterize water transport more accurately. Multiple calibration approaches were combined to calibrate the model. The results show that, the typical profile can be divided into three groundwater flow systems. The circulation depth for the local groundwater flow system is about 200 m and the shallow discharge accounts for 74.4% of the total amount with groundwater age less than 500 a (year). The circulation depth for the middle flow system can reach 800 m and the amount of discharge accounts for 18.5% of the total amount with ground- water age less than 10 ka (kiloyear). The circulation depth for the regional flow system is from 1000 to 1500 m, and the discharge accounts for 7.1% of the total amount with groundwater age ranging from 10 to 50 ka. The improved TOUGH2 numerical model, combined with multiple calibration approaches, can better reflect regional circulation characteristics and quantify the recharge amount of different groundwater sub-systems in arid and semi-arid inland basins with limited datasets.

5 illus, 6 tables, 26 ref

023892   SABARESHWARI V, RAMYA A (Environmental Science Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: sabareeshwaris99@gmail.com) : Coastal saline soils of India. Agric Rev 2018, 39(1), 86-8.

Coastal region covers a long strip along the east coast (West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu) and west coast (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala). Salinity is mainly due to the presence of saline ground water at shallow depth and frequent sea water inundation in the low lying areas. Sea water intrusion into the aquifers may be direct, but also range of complex geochemical processes like, inter-aquifer mixing, mobilization of brines, water-rock interaction and anthropogenic contamination. NaCl and Na₂ SO₄, are the dominant salts, with abundance of soluble cations in the order of Na>Mg>Ca>K. The salt reaches the soil surface through capillary rise during dry season and makes the soil saline and unproductive for agriculture. Salinity ranges 0.5 dSm^-1 in monsoon and 50 dSm^-1 in summer. Proper understanding about the nature, properties and prevailing constraints related to diverse group of coastal soils is necessary to undertake better management practices to improve the productivity and quality of such low productive salty soils.

8 ref

022330   Zainuddin N F A B M;How V (Environmental and Occupational Health Dep, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 43400) : Disparities of environmental health awareness among rural-urban community in Klang valley, Malaysia. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(10), 818-25.

Environmental health awareness programmes are frequently focused among the urban residents than the rural residents, making these community experience disparities across a significant number of health status measures and health outcomes. To determine the environmental health awareness level and examine the contributing factors of the disparities among rural and urban community. This cross-sectional pilot study recruited 60 rural and 60 urban residents through simple random sampling around Klang Valley. A validated questionnaire which consists of 2 sections : Section A (socio-demographic background) and section B (Comprehensive Environmental Health Checklist) were used as the assessment tool. Urban community has significance higher awareness score as compared to rural community (p<60>0.05). While examining the potential contributing factors that causes disparities of awareness levels, 41.1% of the variation in the environmental awareness among urban residents are due to their education level, duration of stays in Klang Valley and household income, whereas; age, educational level and household income contribute to atleast 53.6% of the variation of environmental health awareness among rural residents. The provision of accurate and timely information about environmental health to both rural and urban residents will translate into beneficial practices of self-coping capacity and become resourceful in tackling environmental health hazards in their living environments.

1 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

022329   Zaidon S Z;Hamsan H;Bin H Y (Environmental and Occupational Health Dep, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 43400) : Review on pesticides occurrence in fruits and vegetables in Malaysia and their potential health risk among adults. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(10), 826-32.

This study was conducted to review the occurrence of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables in Malaysia and to estimate the health risk upon their consumption among adults. Data from several multi residue analytical studies in Malaysia from 2007 to 2014 were collected and analyzed and the reference dose (RfD) of all the compounds were obtained from the European Union (EU) Pesticide Database. Types of pesticides studied were endosulphan, L-cyhalothrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, malathion, triazophos and quinalphos. Health risk assessments were calculated based on the routes of exposure of pesticides through ingestion and the non-carcinogenic health risk was measured by calculating the value of hazard quotient (HQ). Then, the hazard quotient was summed up to obtained the hazard index (HI) of the cumulative pesticides in each sample. Pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables were ranged from 2.2E-4 mg/kg to 2.7 mg/kg. However, the reported concentrations of pesticide residues were below the maximum residual limit (MRL) set by European Commission. 30% of the pesticide residues exceeded their EU-MRL and the calculated hazard quotient for all compounds in the fruits and vegetables shows no significant non-carcinogenic health risk to human.

1 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

022328   Yadav V S (NO, Modern Law College, Pune, Maharashtra) : Environmental impact assessment: A critique of Indian law and practices. Int J multidiscipl Res Dev 2018, 5(1), 1-5.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process is an interdisciplinary and multistep procedure to ensure that environmental considerations are included in decisions regarding projects that may impact the environment. This paper contains the analysis of concept and object of Environmental Impact Assessment. It also contains a brief overview of international law providing for Environmental Impact Assessment. Author has also done a critical study of laws and governmental policies relating to Environmental Impact Assessment in India.

20 ref

022327   Vimala G;Dhinagaran G (NO, PMC Tech., Hosur) : Anaerobic filtration of coffee processing wastewater. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(9), 716-20.

In this study, an attempt is being made to treat acidic coffee processing wastewater using an upflow anaerobic filter packed with polypropylene rings and the performance of the reactor is evaluated with varying Hydraulic Retention Times (HRT) of 48 hr, 24 hr and 16 hr. The reactor performed better at higher HRT. For 48 hr of retention time, the effluent from the reactor has maximum reduction of biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total solids (TS), phosphate and nitrate were 56, 68, 61, 57 and 61%, respectively, with organic loading rate (OLR) of 2 kg/m³/day. These results indicate the feasibility of anaerobic filter for the treatment of coffee processing waste-water.

3 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

022326   Verma S S (Physics Dep, Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Longowal, Sangrur-148 106) : Smog free tower. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(9), 740-2.

2 illus

022325   Verma N;Tripathi A K (Forest Ecology and Environment Div, Forest Research Institute, P.O. New Forest, Dehradun-248 006, Email: nemit.verma@gmail.com) : Municipal solid waste (MSW) composition, quantification and characterization at the three MSW dumping sites of Himachal Pradesh. Indian J For 2016, 39(1), 31-6.

Methane emission from - 32 - landfills due to unmanaged dumping contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and ultimately to climate change. The green house gas emission from the dumping sites depends on various factors like quantity of waste generated, composition of solid waste, and characteristics of solid waste. The quantification and characterization of urban solid waste generation is fundamental for adequate decision making in the management strategy of urban solid waste in a city. The objective of this study is to quantify and characterize the waste generated in the three cities of Himachal Pradesh i.e. Shimla, Solan and Nahan. The chemical characteristics study include pH, Moisture, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Carbon and C/N ration and physical studies includes the composition of different waste categories. The annual waste generation in Shimla, Solan and Nahan calculated in this study 17,426.52, 7,130.70 and 1,608.37 tons (t) respectively for the year (yr) 2012-13. The main fractions were : Food and Carbon waste, paper and plastic waste. The pH of MSW was found slight to highly acidic in nature whereas moisture content was found to be in the range from 42.60±1.95 in Nahan to 60.12±1.39% in Shimla. The N, K, P and C estimated were found maximum 0.81% (Shimla), 0.65% (Nahan), 0.33% (Shimla), and 40.49% (Solan) respectively.

4 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

022324   Tanzadeh J;Shad M (NO, Environmental Research Institue Academic Center for Education culture, rasht. iran., Email: jina_tanzadeh@yahoo.com) : Bioremediation of some heavy metals in polluted waters (A case study of lake hoz-e soltan salt (qom, Iran)). J Curr chem pharm Sci 2017, 7(1), 1-9.

Bioremediation is considered as one of the safer, cleaner, cost effective and environmental friendly technology for removing the heavy metals ions from polluted area. Bioremediation is naturally living organisms to reduce the environmental pollutants into less toxic forms. It is followed by bacteria and fungi or plants to degrade or detoxify hazardous ingredients to human health/or the environment. Heavy metal contamination represents an major environmental problem due to the toxic effects of metals and their invasion in to the food chain leads to serious ecological and health problems. The aim of this study is to screen and characterize the resistance of the Halo tolerant bacteria of heavy metals from hoze Sultan lake in Qom. In this study, Halophilic and Halo tolerant microorganisms resistant to heavy metals nickel, cadmium, copper and cobalt were separated in Qom hoz-e Soltan Lake. Results shows that microorganisms which are respectively 13%, 5/19%, 75/43 and 7.3% of MGM, MH, SWN, LNSWN medium, 62/20% of samples from the environment without salt Nutrient agar was obtained. Resistance to heavy metals in the samples showed that Halo tolerant microorganisms most resistant to nickel and cobalt and cadmium and copper metals are the most susceptible.

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

022323   Sulaiman O O;Akhir M F;Azman S (NO, Univ Malaysia Terengganu, School of Ocean Engineering, 21030, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, Email: oolanrewaju8@gmail.com) : Metocean environment for aquaculture seaweed farming system. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(2), 509-12.

The study and analysis of metocean data is essential in predicting future environmental conditions. In relation with design nearshore structure for of seaweed cultivation, this study focuses on the collection and analysis of metocean data of potential sites in Malaysia so as to prevent under-designing and over-designing of the structure. The study investigates the metocean environment for the spatial design and monitoring of a seaweed aquaculture farm at monsoons proton East Coastal region.

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

022322   Sobri N A;Rahman H A (Environmental and Occupational Health Dep, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 43400) : Knowledge, attitude and practices on recycling activity among primary school students in hulu langat, selangor, Malaysia. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(10), 792-800.

The objective of the paper was to study the knowledge, attitude and practice of recycling activities among 2 primary school students in Hulu Langat, Selangor, Malaysia. A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out among primary school student in Kajang and Semenyih, Hulu Langat, Selangor. A number of 188 primary school students were selected as respondents. A set of questionnaire was used to obtain the information about socio-demographic, knowledge, attitude and practices of recycling activity. For knowledge level, the urban schools have 75.7% in good knowledge while rural schools have 71.3%. For the attitude level, 72.3% of urban school have good attitude while only 53.2% of rural school have good attitude. Both school shown practices in satisfactory level which is 74.5% in urban while 62.8% in rural school. For the mean difference, there was a mean difference between knowledge (p<60>0.05, p= 0.003), attitude (p<60>0.05, p= 0.008) and practices (p<60>0.05, p= 0.047) between rural and urban school. Furthermore, there was an association between attitude (p<60>0.05, p = 0.025) and practices - 31 - (p<60>0.05, p = 0.034) towards the rural and urban school. However, there was no association between knowledge and location of school (p<62>0.05, p= 0.249). There was an association between knowledge (p<60>0.005, p = 0.002) and attitude level (p<60>0.005, p = 0.001) to the practices level. For conclude the primary school from both rural and urban school students have a good knowledge and attitude toward recycling but moderate in recycling practices. Thus, the students should be nurtured to increase their practices in recycling activities, such as having environmental education at home and in school, joining recycling awareness campaign and recycle activities.

6 tables, 18 ref

022321   Sinha S;Tripathi A K (Forest Ecology & Environment Div, Forest Research Institute, New Forest, Dehra Dun, Email: sohnisinha_fri@yahoo.com) : Assessment of heavy metals contamination in Roadside soil dust in Doon Valley, Uttarakhand. Indian J For 2016, 39(1), 45-9.

The accumulation of heavy metals in soil at roadside has been studied by the analysis of top soil/dust samples. Concentration of the elements Co, Cr, Pb and Cd were measured on 39 top soil/dust samples collected from near the highways, industrial area and control site. The samples were analysed for Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, Cd, Ni, and Cr by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The mean concentrations of Co, Cr, Pb and Cd were 0.390, 0.090, 2.195 and 0.094 mg kg^-1, respectively. Data obtained from analysis, were statistically examined to know the distribution of metals in different highways and industrial area. The results showed that the topsoil/dust near the highway and industrial sites had significantly enrichment particularly Pb than control sites.

1 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

022320   Singh J S (Botany Dep, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: singh.js1@gmail.com ) : Environment: A futuristic view. Curr Sci 2017, 113(2), 210-17.

The earth today is experiencing environmental conditions unprecedented in the history of the planet. - 30 - Biodiversity is the basis of ecosystem services for human well-being. Reports indicate that the earth has indeed entered into a phase of mass extinction, and that the ecological footprint has substantially exceeded the biocapacity of the earth. It is argued that the ecological footprint must be reduced through sustainable development which should keep nature at its core. Anthropogenic activities have led to global environmental change which is adversely affecting human well-being. Global warming may result in a temperature rise of 4-5°C; the world food production may substantially decline, and the sea level may rise by up to 195 cm by 2100, inundating vast coastal areas. Almost four billion people are facing water scarcity. Three of the nine Rockstrom's planetary boundaries have already been exceeded. However, the encouraging fact is that the nations have agreed to limit global warming to 1.5°C, which gives us hope.

9 illus, 29 ref

022319   Singh G;Srivastava D;Singh S P (Community Medicine Dep, IMS, BHU, Varanasi) : Socio-demographic profile of the revolutionaries and their views on various aspects of ganga river water pollution in Varanasi. Indian J Prev Soc Med 2016, 47(3-4), 198-201.

National River Ganga Basin Authority (NRGBA) declared the Ganga as the "National River" of India. It provides water to about 40% of India's population across 11 states which is larger than any other river in the world. But Ganga was ranked among the five most polluted rivers of the world in 2007. The Ganga action plan (GAP) was launched in 1985 to reduce the pollution load on the fiver. Shri Vidya Math is situated near Shri Kedareswar Temple at Kedar Ghat on the banks of the holy River Ganga which teaches Vedas through the authentic Gurukool practices of the ancient India. Objective was to study the socio-demographic profile of the revolutionaries and their views about different aspects of Ganga river water & its pollution in Varanasi District. A cross- sectional study was conducted at Shri Vidya Math at Kedar Ghat, Sonarpura, Varanasi. The samples of this study were 50 revolutionaries. A self structured questionnaire was used to collect data through face to face interviews. Data were analyzed on MS Excel. Out of 50 revolutionaries, maximum of hem (44%) were aged between 35-55 years. Majority respondents (64%) were male and 56% lived in urban area of Varanasi. Out of total revolutionaries, 60% were saints and 24% and 16% were socio-religious activists and students of Vidya Math, respectively. More than three-fourth (86.0%) were of the view that Ganga river has been neglected and only 34.0% opined that Govt. initiatives are 'Worth full'. 62% blamed burning of funerals on Ganga Ghat as source of pollution, 34% blamed Government, 24%) to general public and 42.0% blamed both Government and general public for this pollution.

3 tables, 12 ref

022318   Singh B S;Sanny Kumar;Ranveer Kumar;Apurba (Applied Chemistry Dep, C.I.T. Tatisilwai, Ranchi, Jharkhand, ) : Air pollution: a new approach on global warming. Int J latest Technol Engng Mgmt appl Sci 2017, 6(5), 71-3.

In a move to curb pollution from the coal-based power sector. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change (MOEF&CC) had announced new emission limits for power stations, both existing and upcoming. The enhanced pace of developmental activities after industrial revolution i.e. 18th century and rapid urbanization have resulted in stress on - 29 - natural resources and quality of life. Pollution is now a common place term that our ears are attuned to. We hear about the various forms of pollution and read about it through the mass media. Air pollution is one such form that refers to the contamination of the air, irrespective of indoors or outside. A physical, biological or chemical alteration to the air in the atmosphere can be termed as pollution. Thus air pollutants are substances emitted into the air from an anthropogenic, biogenic, or geogenic source, that is eigher not part of natural atmosphere or is present in higher concentrations than the natural atmosphere, and may cause a short term or long term adverse effect. It occurs when any harmful gases, dust, smoke enters into the atmosphere and makes it difficult for plants, animals and humans to survive as the air becomes dirty. A WHO report released in May 2014 showed that most of Indian cities are death traps due to very high air pollution levels. The urban air quality database of WHO, covering 1600 cities across 91 countries showed that Indian cities are among those with highest levels of (Particulate Matter) PM 10 and PM 2.5 and less. Black carbon is also a kind of particulate matter, responsible for global warming.

1 table, 6 ref

022317   Sidiqua A;Sadhukhan S;Priya S T V (Civil Engineering Dep, B.S. Abdur Rahman Univ, Vandalur, Chennai) : Case study on water quality : ground water and supplied domestic water. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(9), 725-9.

Groundwater is the most common source of fresh water which is used for domestic use as ell as drinking. Its treatment and purification prior to consumption is essential to reduce health risks. In such an attempt, water samples from Uni-Homes, Chennai were taken and systematically studied to assess the groundwater quality and the efficiency of the reverse osmosis (RO) system installed in the community. Fresh samples were taken from both the inlet and outlet of the reverse osmosis system for every test to maintain accuracy. Eight important parameters of water quality, namely pH, turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, dissolved oxygen (DO), chloride, total solids and total dissolved solids were tested to find out if the water is suitable for domestic use. It was found that the water needs some other tertiary treatment to meet the drinking water standards and it satisfies the portable water requirements.

3 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

022316   Sharma J;Kumar S S;Sharma P;Gupta S;Manju; Malyan S K;Bishnoi N R (Environmental Science & Engineering Dep, Guru Jambheshwar Univ of Science & Technology, Hisar-125 001, Email: jyotisharma.sharma68@gmail.com) : Effect of different nitrogen sources on growth of algal consortia. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(2), 150-3.

Lipids from oleaginous microalgae strains provide a sustainable alternative for biodiesel production. Lipid content of microalgae can be enhanced by altering various factors such as nutrients, pH, temperature etc. Nitrogen is an essential macronutrient that significantly affects the biochemical composition as well as cell growth of microalgae. In present study, we investigated the response of two algal consortia (S1&S2) towards various nitrogen sources (NaNO3, KNO3, NH4NO3, Ca(NO3)2 and Urea) in terms of biomass, total chlorophyll and accumulation of lipids. Effect of nitrogen sources on growth of algal samples was studied by growing algae in BG 11 medium having different nitrogen sources with concentration of 0.1 g/L. Highest lipid content was obtained in NaNO3, followed by KNO3, NH4NO3, and urea for both samples. Sodium nitrate was found to be the best source of nitrogen in terms of lipid accumulation of algae in present study. Urea resulted in high biomass i.e. 2.25 g/L & 1.95 g/L in both samples respectively as well as highest total chlorophyll (22.01 mg/ml & 20.19 mg/ml) was also achieved in medium supplemented with urea as nitrogen source in both samples. Samples having high lipid content may be further processed for biodiesel production.

2 illus, 27 ref

022315   Sengupta N;Mitra S;Agrawal K M (NO, Indian Institute of Social Welfare and Business Management, Kolkata-700 073) : Environmental performance evaluation of sponge iron industries in India - an overview. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(10), 860-73.

The direct reduced iron (DRI) production in India deserves special attention not only because the country is the largest producer of direct reduced iron but also because production is primarily coal based, whereas more than 90% of the global direct reduced iron plants use natural gas. It is observed that in recent times more than 80% of the total production in India is from coal based process, which poses a great challenge as far as compliance with environmental norms is concerned. Accrdingly, the present study attempts to explore various environmental issues related to coal based direct reduced iron plant alongwith resource consumtion and waste generation scenario. Environmental issues related to coal based direct reduced iron kilns are primarily air emissions and solid wastes generation. Though direct reduced iron kiln does not generate significant amount of liquid effluent, but inefficient use of water resources especially ground water in water scarce areas may lead to depletion of ground water resources. Another environmental issue of direct reduced iron kiln is the high greenhouse gases (GHGs) generation potential. A review of the resource utilisation and waste generation potential of direct reduced iron plant reveals that the specific raw material consumption of iron ore is 1.6 tonne/tonne direct reduced iron, coal is 1.2 tonne/tonne direct reduced iron and dolomite is 0.05 tonne/tonne direct reduced iron. The power consumption ranges from 45-130 Kw/tonne direct reduced iron. The amount of char generation on an average is 0.35 tonne/ tonne of direct reduced iron and electrostatic precipitator dust is 0.16 tonne/tonne direct reduced iron. Acordingly, to improve the evironmental performance of direct reduced iron plant and reduce the cost of production, there is an urgent need to introduce innovative, eco-friendly and energy - 28 - efficient technologies for the sustainable growth of the direct reduced iron industry in India.

4 illus, 11 tables, 21 ref