012448   Halilu S;Bala U;Atolaiye B O;Alhassan B (NO, , ) : Physico-chemical analysis of water sample from BWAJI stream. J Modern Chem chem Technol 2017, 8(1), 21-5.

The important of water safety for drinking and other human activities cannot be over emphasise. However, the safety of drinking water is affected by various contaminants as a result of anthropogenic activities. Such contaminants cause serious health problems. Bwaji Stream being the source of water to the community, the physico-Chemical parameters of the water were evaluated to ascertain the purity of the source and avoid likely health problems as a result of using the water. The finding reveals that the source of water before Ara town conforms to specifications set by World Health Organisation (WHO) and Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) while the conductivity of the stream at Ara town and beyond has slightly exceeded the threshold limit set by WHO and SON.

012447   Guru B G;Rout S;Adabar A;Minz S (Civil Engg Dep, VIT, Bargarh) : Analysis of monthly rainfall trend over the Mahanadi basin in Kesinga station. Int J latest Technol Engng Mgmt appl Sci 2017, 6(3), 44-8.

Climatic changes is uncertain in nature and other changes are not expected to be uniform, rather there may be dramatic regional differences. Considerable effort should be given to understand change in climate at the regional level. Here we had conducted the study to establish the rainfall trends in the Tel river of Kesinga and also to provide the evidence of climate change by analyzing available rainfall record for 11years period from 2003 to 2013. Records of monthly rainfall were obtained from the CWC station at Kesinga for analysis. Graphs were constructed to illustrate the changing trends within the months of the study area. From the graphs the highest and lowest amount of rainfall was obtainedand the variation in rainfall was studied. The mean, median, standard deviation, variance of rainfall data of each month was obtained to know the variation in 11 years of data. Trend analysis is parametric type, i.e. linear regression analysis revealed positive and negative trend in some months.

1 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

012446   Ekute B O;Etim E U (Chemistry unit, School of Science and Technology, National Open Univ of Nigeria, ) : Evaluation of the impact of Ota industrial estate effluents on surface water quality of Oruku river, Ota, Southwestern Nigeria. Int J appl Sci Engng Res 2016, 5(4), 317-23.

The effect of industrial effluents on surface water quality of Oruku River was investigated in this study. Samples were collected at five different points (SR1-SR5) and at four different periods spanning through November, 2010 to May, 2011 and were analysed for physicochemical characteristics. Water quality indicators; pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) and total dissolved solids (TDS) were examined amongst other physicochemical parameters. The average pH of the surface waters ranged from 5.53±0.31 to 6.23±0.45 with SR3 having the highest value. This indicates that all the water sources were alkaline. The DO levels were within the required DO levels (5-8mg/L) for the sustenance of aquatic life and hence, the water source is considered suitable for aquatic life and unfit for drinking purposes. The level of the measure of gross organic pollution, COD in the surface waters showed that they were organically polluted.

3 table, 13 ref

012445   Choudhury S;Kishore J;Kohli C (NO, Forest Reserve Institute Univ, Indian Council of Forestry Research an, Dehradun, Email: drjuglkishore@gmail.com) : Biomedical waste management practices in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. Int J Hlthcare Educat med Inf 2016, 3(3-4), 13-7.

Objective was to assess the current status of biomedical waste management in a tertiary hospital and suggesting remedial measures. A sample of 64 healthcare workers (HCW) participated, which included 32 nurses, 17 nursing orderlies and sanitary workers, and 15 doctors to provide information practices, hygiene, facilities available, etc. 20 facilities/ wards were included in the observation using checklist on BMW management. After collection of data compilation was done in Microsoft Excel sheets. The interpretation is made on BMW segregation, hygiene of facility, provision of facilities, safety measures, BMW management training, etc. The BMW practices of untrained and trained staff were comparable with little difference. Among the three categories of HCW, all showed equal percentage of correctness of practices. Nursing orderlies had least knowledge. Hygiene was maintained but corners were found in general unclean. Many respondents were unsure how liquid chemical waste and toxic spills are handled in the facilities. The posters were present but they were small in size and difficult to read. In two facilities, additional notices were placed over the bins. Injury risk was more among those who had received BMW training. BMW management in a tertiary hospital was not adequate and monitoring in general, and effective supervision of workers in particular, is required. Posters can be made more meaningful by proper designing.

4 table, 14 ref

012444   Bakkari S K K AL;Kamalakar D;Rao L N (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Dep, Caledonian College of Engineering, Sultanate of Oman, Muscat) : Impact of red tide to the desalination plant. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(3), 322-5.

The desalinated water to be changed to un-salted fresh water which is suitable for human intake as well as irrigation. The process produces salt as a by-product. It can be on various seagoing ships as well as submarines. Most of interest in desalination is focused on developing cost-effective treatment methods of providing fresh water for human use in regions where the - 22 - accessibility or requirement of fresh water is limited. Major desalination naturally uses extremely large scale of energy as well as specialized, infrastructure making it very costly compared to the utilization of freshwater from rivers as well as groundwater. The present study was mainly focusing on impact of red tide before and after the treatment.

3 illus, 10 ref

012443   Arora D K;Singh S P (Research Centre, Pt.S.N.S. Govt. P.G. College, Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, Email: arora.daljeet@gmail.com) : Growth performance and chemical analysis of some plants irrigated with Chlor-alkali effluent. Asian J Adv Basic Sci 2017, 5(1), 14-17.

Nowadays, the major reason of water pollution is industrial effluent. Chlor-alkali effluent disposed from chlor-alkali paper mill is having very high pH, BOD and COD values as well as organic and inorganic materials. Lower concentration of effluents may act as fertilizer but higher concentration has toxic effects. To study impact of Chlor-alkali Effluent (CAE) on plants, seeds of Soyabean (Glycine max), Barbati (Vigna sinensis) and Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) were selected for experiment. Parameters selected were height of plant, amount of sugar, non-sugar, protein, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll (a) and chlorophyll (b). Effect of Chlor-alkali effluent was analyzed at different dilutions viz. 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100% and control. From this experiment, it is clear that with increase of percentage concentration of chlor-alkali effluent, the average length of Glycine max, Vigna sinensis and Lycopersicum esculentum were decreased. Co-relation was also calculated between concentration and plant length, which showed negative value. So far concerned with amount of sugar, non sugar, protein, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll (a) and chlorophyll (b) in case of these plants, the amount of sugar, non sugar, chlorophyll (a) and chlorophyll (b) remain same at 10% and 20% effluent concentration as compared to control condition and decrease from 40% to 100% effluent concentration as compared to control condition where as the amount of protein and ascorbic acid varies in each species.

3 table, 12 ref

012442   Aksas H;Boughrara S;Louhab K (Food Technology Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineer Science, Boumerdes Univ, 35000 Boumerdes, Algeria, Email: aksas_ha@yahoo.fr) : Environmental impact of algerian cement factories on fauna and flora. Asian J Chem 2017, 29(2), 301-4.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the environmental impact of atmospheric emission of two kinds of cement portland processes in the Algerian factories on fauna and flora. The first uses the dry process and is located in a rural area (Sour El Ghozlane) and second is in an urban area (Rais Hamidou) and uses the wet process. To evaluate the atmospheric impacts generated by the cement factories, life cycle assessment approach is applied using Simparo 7.1 software and EDIP method. A comparative study of the impacts evaluated for these processes and the contribution of the compound for all impact categories were determined.

1 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

011419   Tejaswi D;Samuel C (Civil Engineering Dep, SRM Univ, Kattankulathur, Kancheepuram-603 203, Email: christophersamuel.g@ktr.srmuniv.ac.in) : Techniques for environmental risk assessment. Rasayan J Chem 2017, 10(2), 499-506.

Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) is a decision-making tool that enables affirmative actions, which lead to a safer environment, optimization of manufacturing processes, reduced business risks, and enhanced profitability. It makes an organization proactive and go beyond the paradigm of compliance to enable sustainability. A wide range of techniques are available in the literature, which can be employed in ERA. In this paper, a review of nine major techniques is presented. These techniques are Leopold matrix, Hazard and Operability study (HAZOP), Knowledgebased HAZOP, Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), Event Tree Analysis (ETA), Process mapping, Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA), What-if analysis, and Checklists. An outline of the origin, history, evolution, applications, and limitations of these techniques is provided. These techniques help in anticipating environmental hazards and implementing an effective environmental management plan.

^iia1 table, 68 ref

011418   Sreekumar V B;Hussain K H;Renuka C (Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation Div, , Peechi-680 653, Email: sreekumar@kfri.res.in) : Virtual herbarium of Kerala forest research institute, Peechi, Kerala, India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(3), 466-70.

A virtual herbarium of the specimens preserved in the Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Kerala, India has been created. Herbarium specimens were digitized using an image station and a website was developed using open-source software like Apache, MySQL and PHP. The database provides a total of 5718 records representing 203 plant families. The predominant families with maximum records represented are Arecaceae (1167 records), Poaceae (381), Orchidaceae (347), Fabaceae (270), Euphorbiaceae (239) and Rubiaceae (217). Details such as collection number, name of collector, date of collection, collection location, brief description of the habitat, phenology, besides the binomial as recorded on the herbarium specimen label are further computed and shown along with digitized specimens for each species on the species page. The 'digital herbarium' is rendered accessible at http://kfriherbarium.org/. The data presented are informative, user-friendly and easily accessible. The initiative is a gesture of sharing information on plant diversity of Kerala that was gathered by several researchers who have also contributed to building the herbarium.

4 illus, 36 ref

011417   Shardendu;Tripti K;Singh D N;Sayantan D ( Botany Dep, Patna Science College Patna Univ, Patna-800 005, Email: sharendu77@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of arsenic removal potenical of arsenic resistant bacteria with the role of physiological and genomic factor. Indian J expl Biol 2017, 55(4), 251-61.

Arsenic contamination in drinking ground water has reached an alarming situation in parts of Bengal Delta, India. Development of methods for removal of arsenic contamination from the drinking water will be of great importance for the mankind. The main objective of this study was to isolate and characterize arsenic resistant bacteria (ARB) from the surface water of Kabar Wetland (6.066±0.23 mg/L As) located in Begusarai district of Bihar province (25°35'N and 86°10'E), India. Bacteria were isolated from water sample by enrichment culture technique and based on their 16S rRNA gene sequences, isolates tolerating 150mM arsenate/As(V) were identified as Paracoccus sp strain NC-A and Alcaligenes faecalis strain NC-B, whereas isolate resistant to 30mM arsenite/As(III) was identified as Stenotrophomonas sp. strain NC-C. Bioinformatic analysis of genome of reference strains revealed the presence of different arsenic resistance (ars) genes. Arsenic removal efficiency of isolates was evaluated and it was observed that As(V) resistant strains of Paracoccus and Alcaligenes removed up to 84.5% and 93% arsenic, respectively from the external growth medium, whereas, As(III) resistant strain of Stenotrophomonas sp. removed 79.6% arsenic from the culture broth. The optimum pH, temperature and nutrient levels (peptone water) for arsenic removal by these isolates were 7.0, 35°C and (PW/60), respectively. These observations suggest that the strains described in this study are capable of removing arsenic from the dilute solutions, and hence being natural isolates, these strains can be easily used in the purification of arsenic contaminated water and thereby check the increasing arsenic toxicity in human food chain.

6 illus, 2 table, 33 ref

011416   Sai Krishna V V;Pandey K;Karnatak H (Urban and Regional Studies Dep, Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun-248 001, Email: vsaikrishna1990@gmail.com) : Geospatial multicriteria approach for solid waste disposal site selection in Dehradun city, India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(3), 549-59.

Solid waste generation is increasing rapidly in urban areas of India as well as globally. As land resources for waste disposal are limited in highly populated countries like India, identification of solid waste disposal sites in urban centres is a challenging task, as this involves physical, socio-economic and environmental factors. Dehradun, the capital city of Uttara-khand at present has only one disposal site which is not having good spatial accessibility for all the locations in the city and also it is an environmentally vulnerable site. The present study aims to find suitable sites for decentralized solid waste disposal using geo-spatial techniques with multi spatio-temporal remote sensing data. A geospatial multicriteria analysis was performed with weighted overlay technique by considering various criteria such as physical, social and demographic aspects of the city for locating the solid waste disposal site(s).

14 illus, 10 tables, 17 ref

011415   Ranjith L;Shukla S P (Aquatic Environment & Health Management Division, Central Institute of Fisheries Education , Versova, Mumbai-400 061, Email: sps_s@rediffmail.com) : Column mode removal of copper removal through physically entrapped algal bioadsorbents. Indian J chem Technol 2016, 23(6), 527-32.

A polyurethane column with physically entrapped algal materials has been designed and tested for copper removal from aqueous medium. The performance of the column is assessed on the basis of the parameters viz. bio-removal efficiency, metal sequestered in the column and bio-sorption capacity. The findings show that the combination of calcium alginate and S. platensis exhibit highest bio-removal efficiency (38.42%) for Cu(II) in the concentration range 5-20 mg L^-1. The maximum bio-sorption capacity (80.30 mg/g) is recorded for a mixture of calcium alginate and S. platensis after 60 min treatment time. FTIR analysis of algal adsorbents show that the adsorption efficiency depended on the availability of negatively charged groups such as carboxylic and hydroxyl groups. The study concluded that the algal compounds and dried biomass of S. platensis are effective bio-adsorbents for the removal of Cu(II) from water.

4 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

011414   Mulani N;Fulke A B;D'Souza E;Ram A;Maloo A; Sayed F;Gajbhiye S N (NO, CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre, Lokhandwala Road, Four Bungalowa, Andheri(West), Mumbai-400 053, Email: afulke@nio.org) : Biodegradation of crude oil using marine Bacillus species from Vadinar coast, Gujarat, India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(3), 569-76.

The marine environment is open to large sources of toxic organic waste in the form of accidental oil spills. Terefore, it is important to study microbial degrada-tion processes that help reduce the damage caused to the environment. Universally, oil spills produce enor-mous public anxiety and highlight the need for cost-effective, indigenous and environmentally acceptable bioremediation technologies. In recent times, advan-ced remedial techniques have been opted, such as solidifying, skimming, controlled burning and biore-mediation. The present study aimed to isolate crude oil-degrading marine bacteria from Vadinar coastal area of Gujarat, India. Among seven isolates, three potential bacterial strains were chosen for crude oil and petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) degradation, which were analysed by UV spectrophotometric and fluorometric analysis. These bacterial cultures were verified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and identified as Bacillus species. Phylogenetic analysis was carried out to confirm the evolutionary relationship with existing oil-degrading species. In the present study, drop collapse, oil spreading and emulsification assay were performed to detect biosurfactant production. Bacillus sp. NM1 KT354277 was capable of degrading 50% of PHCs at the end 72 h for one week under ro-tary incubation in ONR7a medium. Among the stud-iec strains, Bacillus sp. NM3 KT354278 showed promising lipase activity, viz. 60.72 and 61.19 U ml^-1 for 2% of olive oil and tributyrin respectively. Thus, the present study explores indigenous marine isolates that could be utilized as a potential alternative for oil-spill remediation in future.

4 illus, 4 tables, 44 ref

011413   Kumar Raju B C;Nandagiri L (Civil Engineering Dep, ACS College of Engineering, Kambipura, Mysore Road, Bengaluru-560 074, Email: kumarrajubc@gmail.com) : Analysis of historical trends in hydrometeorological variables in the upper Cauvery basin, Karnataka, India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(3), 577-87.

The present study examines the significance and mag-nitude of trends in the monthly rainfall, monthly Lean maximum and minimum daily temperatures and streamflow in the Upper Cauvery Basin, Karnataka for a 30-year period, i.e. 1981-2010. Using observed data from 33 rain gauges, 6 climate stations and 4 stream gauging sites, statistical parameters -coeffi-cient of variation (CV) and percentage departure have been calculated for average monthly values separately for three decades. As expected, CV of rainfall showed large variations from December to March, while the percentage departure also varies during these months for different decades. Statistically significant trend was observed in maximum temperature for Chikma-galur and Hassan stations. CV of minimum daily temperature showed large variability from November to March for all climate stations and also a significant increasing trend for Hassan and Bengaluru stations, while for Madikeri a decreasing trend was observed with a variation of -0.16°C/year. Not much variation was found for streamflow, except in K. M. Vadi and T. Narasipnr gauge sites, which showed significant de-nasing trend of -0.778 m³s/year. Long-range dependence analysis revealed a weak persistence for loth rainfall and streamflow of the basin. Results provide information regarding historical climate fends in the Upper Cauvery Basin, which can form Ik basis for projecting likely future trends and preparing plans for climate change mitigation and adaptation.

6 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

011412   Alharbi R M (Biology Dep, College of Education, Hafer Al-Baten Univ, Hafer Al-Baten, Saudi Arabia, Email: r_0660@hotmail.com) : Toxicity of bioaccumulation of lead, cadmium and zinc in Chroococcus minutus and chlorococcum aegyptiacum. Int J pharm Res Allied Sci 2017, 6(2), 290-300.

Studies on toxicity and bioaccumulation of lead, cadmium and zinc in the blue-green alga Chroococcus minutus and the green alga Chlorococcum aegyptiacum were conducted by short-term bioassays using toxicity symptoms, scientific growth rate, chlorophyll a, removal % and bioaccumulation factor parameters. The toxicity symptoms of the studied metals include increasing in crystalline inclusions, aggregation of thylakoid membranes at the sides of the cell and partial disorganization of the cell wall in the case of Chroococcus minutus and a major change in shape of cell wall, damage of chloroplasts, reduction in number of chloroplasts, complete disorganization of the cell components and formation of granules and disintegrated cell wall and cell death in the case of Chlorococcum aegyptiacum. There were significant decreases in the specific growth rate and chlorophyll a contents when the metal concentrations were increased. The removal % and bioaccumulation factor (BCF) of Zn were higher than that of Cd and Pb suggesting that the accumulation potential of the studied two microalgae for Zn was higher than that for Cd and Pb.

5 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

011411   Al-Enazi N M (Biology Dep, College of Science and Humanity Studies, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz U, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia, Email: no_sa2007@hotmail.com) : Biosorption of Pb<. Int J pharm Res Allied Sci 2017, 6(2), 247-54.

In this study, the batch experiments (shake flask conditions) existed carried out to investigate the potential of Chroococcus minutus and Chlorococcum aegyptiacum (dead mass) to remove Pb²⁺ ions (5, 10, 15 and 20 mgL^-1) from aqueous solution under different pH values (3,4,5,6 & 7); different mass amounts (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 & 2.0 g dry wt./L) and also under different shaking time periods (1, 2,3,4,5 & 6 hours). Both biosorbents recorded high biosorption value (96 and 90 % for Chroococcus minutus and Chlorococcum aegyptiacum, respectively) by using 1.6 g dried algal material at the initial concentration of 15 mgL^-1 Pb²⁺, pH 6.0 and 28°C constant temperature for 5 hours of contact time. Analysis of the spectrum obtained with atomic absorption spectrophotometer indicated that the adsorbents have great potentials to remove Pb²⁺ from aqueous media and can be used as an eco-friendly technology for efficient bioremediation in the natural environment.

5 illus, 30 ref

011410   Abdel-Shafy H I;Mansour M S M (Water Research & Pollution Control Dep, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt, Email: hshafywater@yahoo.com) : Treatment of pharmaceutical industrial wastewater via anaerobic/aerobic system for unrestricted reuse. J scient ind Res 2017, 76(2), 119-27.

Great environmental concern is due to disposal of pharmaceutical wastewater without adequate treatment. The present study deals with treatment of industrial pharmaceutical wastewater for an effective removal of pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs). This wastewater was previously treated by activated sludge through two stage successive treatment process that was inadequate for the removal of the PhACs. The inefficient treated water is used for landscape irrigation that would threat the environment, public health and groundwater. The aim of the present study is employing an adequate treatment system for complete removal of the pharmaceutical residues (PhR's), efficient wastewater handling and safe water reuse. For this purpose an integration of UASB reactor followed by MBR was studied. The examined system proved high efficiency in treating the given wastewater, removal of the PhR's and safe quality for water reuse. The pharmaceuticals were removed from raw wastewater at a rate ranging from 94 to 99.2%. The overall results revealed that employing the integration of UASB followed by MBR is efficient for the treatment of the studied raw mixed wastewater in terms of the pollution parameters as well as eliminating the PhR's. Meanwhile, the examined integrated process is considered a compact system with low space requirements.

3 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

010398   Zhenisbekovna U S;Satayev M I;Viktorovich S V (NO, M. Auezov South Kazakhstan State Univ, Kazakhstan, Shymkent, Email: maratsatayev@mail.ru) : Production of active carbons from apricot pit shells by thermal activation in the mixture of carbon dioxide and water vapors. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1319-25.

Active carbon, that can be used in the adsorption cleaning of water environments from pollutants of various composition, was produced. Apricot pit shells were charged into the carbonizing stove, where the process was carried out at a temperature of 700 °C with nitrogen purging during 2 hours. Then, the carbonated product was placed into the activation furnace. The thermal activation was carried out in the flow of CO₂ and H₂O in the mass ratio 85:15 at a temperature of 800°C during one hour. The paper presents characteristics of the produced active carbon. Moisture content, total porousness, mesopore, micropore and macropore volume, high brightening ability by methylene blue of the active carbon were determined.

6 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

010397   Yadav A;Mukherjee A K;Roy S K;Das S (Regional Occupational Health Centre (Eastern), India Council of Medical Research, Block DP-1, Sector-V, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700 091) : Assessment of noise levels at renovation site, eastern India. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 124-30.

The study being reported here has been carried out in an office building which was under renovation work, in Kolkata city of Eastern India. Continuous equivalent sound pressure level L_{eq has been measured by hand held analyzer type-2250L. The study involves 76 subjects (36 workers and 30 office staff members as control group). The result reveals that noise level in certain - 13 - activities, like railing polishing and marble cutting is more than the accept limits of 90dB (A) for 8 hr exposure stipulated by OSHA and IFA (1948). While noise level in other activities, like plaster removal from walls, drilling of surfaces, etc., is less than 90 dB (A).The results of personnel interview reveal the followings : (i) Speech interference by 97% and 64% of control group and workers, respectively, (ii) 44% of workers and 77% of control group are aware about adverse effects of noise exposure, (iii) noise annoyance by 64% of workers but 100% of control group, (iv) only 6% of workers using hearing protection device and (v) 14% of workers know about the benefits of using PPE. The study demonstrates the presence of high noise at renovation site and high noise annoyance by control group than workers. However, workers are at high risk of developing noise induced hearing loss (NIHL).}

3 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

010396   Sheth J K (Community Medicine Dep, AMCMET Medical College Maninagar, Ahmedabad-380 008, Email: jayksheth@yahoo.com) : Salient features of bio-medical waste management rules, 2016. Indian J community Hlth 2017, 29(1), 5-9.

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India published the official notification no G.S.R. 343(E) in the government gazette, dated 28thMarch2016. With this the new law on biomedical waste called as "Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016" came into force in supersession of the Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998.Being an inevitable and inseparable part of our health care industry, it is obligatory for us that we discuss and understand the rule, legal provision as well as its implications. Being very recent, the provisions made in the new rules are not widely known. There are various changes in the new rule. An effort is made here to explain the technical aspects of the law in simpler way, comparing it with the old rule and highlighting on the key changes. Scientific basis for some changes in the rule are also highlighted appropriately. The article is particularly written to make health professionals more aware, well informed and better prepared. The larger interest however is to help & facilitate proper implementation of the rule at all levels.

13 ref

010395   Saeedpour B (NO, Environment Univ, Karaj, Iran) : Assessment of the ecological potential of Shaskoh protected area for determining suitable ecotourism sites. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1757-63.

Assessment of the ecological potential in ecotourism industry is considered as an important tool for acquiring a proper tourism pattern and for avoiding possible undesirable consequences. Considering the ecological specifications of the area, in this study, the ecological potential of Shaskoh protected area was evaluated using systematic analyzing method and map overlapping which created uniform land units. A specific model for the area was determined using "Iranian model for ecotourism and protection", and eventually the ecological potential was evaluated after comparing it with proposed land uses. Analyses were performed using ArcGIS 9.3. According to results, majority of the area of study lacks potential for intensive tourism activities and only 0.04 % of total area (24.25 ha) is suitable for category 2 of tourism activities. 11.6 % (8326.18 ha) of the area has the potential for extensive tourism activities.

4 illus, 9 tables, 12 ref

010394   Raju M V S (Civil Engineering Dep, V.R. Siddhartha Engineering College (Autonomous), Vijayawada-520 007) : Status of particulate matter in Vijayawada - a case study. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 108-15.

Vijayawada Corporation area extends over 61.88 km with a population of 14.7 lacs. It is one of the biggest city of Andhra Pradesh even before separation of the state. Now it is considered as capital of newly formed Andhra Pradesh. Particulate matter and gaseous pollutants in the ambient atmosphere of Vijayawada are increasing due to rapid increase in urbanization, congestion of roads, older vehicles and inadequate inspection of vehicles. A case study has been carried out to present the status of suspended particulate matter (SPM) and respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) at residential and industrial places of Vijayawada city during 2010-2014. Since finer particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM₁₀) size have been identified as potential health hazard for human beings. It has been observed that annual average concentrations of suspended particulate matter and respirable suspended particulate matter exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) at residential sampling station for all the 5 years of study. While - 12 - suspended particulate matter and respirable suspended particulate matter concentrations are below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards values at industrial sampling station.

8 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

010393   Raheja I;Vohra S;Sharma T;Gaur M;Shukla A (Delhi Univ, Resource Management and Design Application Dep, Lady Irwin College, Delhi-110 001) : Health impacts vehicular pollution on the road side residents. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 143-8.

Air pollution is now the fifth largest killer in India, says newly released findings of Global Burden of Disease report'. Vehicular pollution is responsible for many health related problems in the urban areas. The air pollution status in Delhi/NCR has undergone many changes in terms of the levels of pollutants and the control measures taken to reduce them. In this study a questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the health status of people who live near road in heavy traffic areas. The common problems which were reported by people due to vehicular pollution were headache, throat irritation, asthma, respiratory problems, anxiety, hearing loss, irritability, fatigue/drowsiness, nasal congestion, eye irritation, nose irritation, sneezing and skin irritation; it was also assumed that long term exposure of this pollution air as well as noise leads to lung cancer, chronic bronchitis and permanent hearing loss.

3 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

010392   Naima B;Okkacha H (NO, Laboratoire d'Ecologie et Gestion des Ecosystemes Naturels, Universite, Tlemcen-Algere, Email: brahiminaima26@yahoo.fr) : Anthropic impact on soil of the Chamaeropaie in Tlemcen region (Western algeria). Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1389-97.

Powerful environmental agent, man alters ecosystems and environments. Since the Neolithic he went through domestication, artificialization of the soil, construction of terraces on slopes, urbanization and overgrazing. The intervention of man and his cattle impacted unevenly media components of the environment but the most visible elements are biotic and among them the soil. This study reveals the extent of this intervention by the disturbance of the soil (compaction, erosion). The determination of the packed soils surface (in m²) and their weight (in kg) is based on using the profile method which consists in metric measurements on 10 points located in a path created by man and his flock on a distance of 100 m. The interpretation of results by the Anova 1 and the PCA has clarified the affinities that exist between, on one hand, the compacted soils of the different stations, and, on the other hand to highlight the anthropozoogenic impact on the soil of Chamaeropaie.

5 illus, 9 tables, 26 ref

010391   Nahak S;Nahak G;Sahu R K (Botany Dep, B.J.B. Autonomous College, Bhubaneswar-751 012) : Environmental impact of flyash from talcher thermal power station, with special reference to heavy metals. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 137-42.

Flyash is a waste product of coal burning in the thermal power stations. Several million tonnes of flyash are produced globally every day. Very little amount of flyash is being utilized purposefully and the rest amount contaminate the environment. In the present study flyash from Talcher Thermal Power Station, Odisha polluted the water quality by changing its physico-chemical properties. Flyash deposition in soil also increases the heavy metal concentrations in our study. 12 plant samples of aquatic and terrestrial habits were investigated for metal concentration indicated a low amount of accumulation below the toxic range set by EPA. This paper attempts to focus on overall environmental status of Talcher Thermal Power Station and its surroundings.

1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

010390   Mishra G;Gupta P;Kulshreshtha P;Babu P;Khare M (Resource Managemenr and Design Application Dep, Delhi Univ, Lady Irwin College, Delhi) : Physico-chemical characterization of respirable praticulate matter in an underground metro station platform: a case study in Delhi. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 88-96.

The present study aims at temporal and spatial analysis of respirable particulate matter at the underground metro station (UMS) platform at Chandni Chowk metro station, Delhi. It measures the concentration of 9 elements, namely lead (Pb), silver (Ag), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd) and potassium (K) during peak winter season and the sample of 7 days was collected using environmental dust sampler GRIMM 1.107 model and weather station. The study includes testing of these elements by the analysis of collected respirable particulate matter using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). It also evaluates I/O relationships of particulate matter and analyzes the wind rose diagram of the site. The results demonstrated that the average concentration of elements are: Fe (3.36 ± 1.11 μg/m_{d<3), Zn (0.68 ± 0.52 μgl m3), K (0.45 ± 0.19 μg/m^{2), Pb (0.38 ± 0.23 μg/mhgh3), Cu (0.13 ± 0.06 μg/m3), Ag (0.04 ± 0.06 μg/m3), Mn (0.01 ± 0.06) and Cd (0 μg/m3). The 22% of the wind blew from the eastern direction, which could have carried the gaseous emissions as well as particulate matter towards the Chandni Chowk underground metro station due to large parking and heavy traffic from the adjacent road.}}

11 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

010389   Kashyap M (Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bengaluru-560 012) : Preliminary study of noise levels at the periphery of Indian institute of science (IISc) campus, Bengaluru. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 97-107.

Noise pollution can be defined as the unwanted sound, that is released to the environment and disturbing the human beings. Sources of noise pollution include industrial sources, non-industrial sources, vehicles, uncontrolled use of loud speakers, construction activities, such as drilling, etc. Noise levels from vehicles through engines and horns are the main cause of concern in cities and may potentially contribute more than 50% of total noise pollution. A preliminary study of noise monitoring around the periphery of Indian Institute of Science (lISc) campus showed the noise levels to be above the thresholds limits by 20%-45%. Noise pollution arises from vehicles plying around the campus where there are major roads and a busy traffic junction. The campus is categorized as silence - 10 - zone. Traffic volume and noise levels were measured at the gates of the campus and at a major traffic junction. The study also includes remedial measures that can be implemented to reduce the noise levels inside the campus.

4 illus, 9 tables, 2 ref

010388   Karn S K R;Pan X (Biotechnology Dep, National Institute of Technology, Raipur-492 010) : Diversity of arsenite oxidase gene (AioA-gene) from arsenic rich gold mine dumps of Xinjiang, China. Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 149-51.

Current study was undertaken to analyse arsenite oxidase gene (aioA-gene) of bacterial strain from arsenic rich gold mine dump of Xinjiang, China. Eleven arsenite oxidizing bacteria were isolated which showed arsenic resistance level up to 80 mM concentration. All the strains were identified using 16s rRNA gene sequence analysis and observed that identified strains belongs to two groups Fermicutes and Gamma-proteo-bacteria. Out of these, six strain were positive for arsenic resistance, containing Mo-pterin As(III) oxidase or (aioA gene) a larger subunit of arsenite oxidizing gene. Due to high resistance and oxidizing ability of these resistant strains, they may be employed for bioremediation of arsenic contaminated sites.

1 illus, 7 ref

010387   Jafari A;Amin G;Ziarati P (Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branc, Islamic Azad Univ, (IAUPS), Tehran, Iran, Email: ziarati.p@iaups.ac.ir) : Potential of Echium ameonum Fisch & Mey in removing heavy metals from pharmaceutical effluent. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1585-94.

The environmental and physical consequences of improper pharmaceutical waste management are serious. Hazardous chemical materials and Pharmaceutical waste from educational laboratory systems usually is thrown into the trash or dumped into a sink and thereby placed in the sewer waste stream. If these chemical compounds are not biodegraded or eliminated during sewage treatment, they eventually reach drinking water. In fact, most sewage and water treatment facilities do not take pharmaceutical contaminants into consideration, so these wastes are left untreated to enter our surface, ground, and drinking water. The main waste streams that educational sites of pharmaceutical Sciences branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran were Cobalt and Cadmium compounds. The majority of the effluent from laboratories consists primarily of a mixture of water and acid and as its toxicity to the staff; they were confined to fume hoods. Information regarding the extent and concentration of all the chemicals expected to be used in the laboratory were mainly obtained from the end user. These chemicals have founded their way into the drain pipe. Due to vast medicinal benefits of Echium amoenum Fisch & C.A. Mey and availability of its dried flowers in Tehran market, we chose it for cleaning -up the soil. E. amoenum dried flowers added as an adsorbent in soil samples under different experimental conditions in this study and have been studied after every 3 days in 30 days. Aerial parts of growing basil in every three days in companion of E. amoenum fruits in the soils were separated in 3 days and digested by wet method according the standard protocol for measuring Cadmium, Chrome (III) and (VI), Nickel and Lead. Mean values were calculated, and the data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance, completely randomized block design (ANOVA). Results revealed that E. amoenum flowers have more potential to absorb Cobalt than Cadmium first days of study - 9 - (p<60>0.003). The present study focused on adsorption capacity of Cr (VI), Cr (III), Co and Cd, Ni and Pb by E. amoenum was investigated in a batch system by considering the effects of various parameters like contact time, initial concentrations, pH, temperature, absorbent dose. The results of this study revealed that E. amoenum fruit can accumulate high level of Cobalt, Chrome (VI) and (III) in a short time and their uptake rate by vegetable and edible plant is significantly affected by their concentrations in the contaminated soil (p<60>0.05). A contact time of 15 days by E. amoenum was found to be optimum and 90.6% Cr (VI), 82.3% Cr(III),78.9% Co, 70.3% Pb and 48.6% Ni was taken by adsorbent from contaminated soil while a few amounts of these heavy metals being uptake by edible vegetable - basil. To quantify the occurrence and the distribution of heavy metals, to evaluate their effects, and to prevent them from passing through wastewater collection and treatment systems into soil and ground water bodies represents an urgent task for applied environmental sciences in the coming years. Public acceptance of green technologies is generally higher than that of industrial processes. The responsible organizations should stimulate research to upgrade existing waste water treatment by implementing phytoremediation modules and demonstrating their reliability to the public.

4 illus, 52 ref

010386   Chetan S;Satpute S T;Sunil G (Director Farms, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: chetan_singla@pau.edu) : Determination of heavy metal pollution index of ground water of village Walipur in Ludhiana district. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1139-45.

The - 8 - objective of the study was to reveal the seasonal variations in the groundwater quality with respect to heavy metals contamination near Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana district. To get the extent of trace metals contamination, groundwater samples from tube wells were randomly collected from 16 different points on both sides along the course of Buddha Nullah from areas of Bhamian Kalan, Khasi Kalan and Wallipur Kalan villages of Ludhiana district during first fortnight of June (Pre-monsoon), first fortnight of November (Post-monsoon) and first fortnight of January (Winter season) during the year 2013-14. The concentrations of toxic and heavy metals such as metalloids B, As, Pb; alkaline earth metals Mg, Ca; alkali metals Na, K; transition metals Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd and nonmetal S were determined. The heavy metal pollution index (HPI) was calculated. Most of the parameters were found within permissible limit of BIS, 2004. The average values of concentration of Ca, Cr, Mn, As and Pb for pre-monsoon season was higher than average concentration of post-monsoon and winter season. Overall HPI calculated based on the mean concentration of the heavy metals was found to be 18.11, 15.32 and 16.10 for pre-monsoon, post-monsoon and winter season, respectively, which was below the critical pollution index value of 100. The study recommended proper treatment to the sewage water which is being discharged into the Buddha Nullah.

3 illus, 5 tables, 26 ref

010385   Bhattacharya S;Chattopadhyay A;Das A K; Mandal T K;Bandyopadhyay S K (NO, , Zoological Garden, Alipore, Kolkata-700 027, Email: shivajibhattacharya2007@yahoo.co.in) : Leaf contamination status in abiotic components and human hair around bidhyadhari estuary of Indian sundarban delta. Explor Anim med Res 2016, 6(2), 150-8.

Lead (Pb) is found to be present in different abiotic components and human hair at all the stations from S1 to S5 around Bidyadhari river and its value ranged from 1.02 - 6.22 μg/gm. Concentration of Pb decreased in stations away from that river and seemed as less contaminated stations. The concentration of Pb is found to be about 25 times and 45 times more than the tolerance limit in surface water and tube well water respectively. Human hairs contained more concentration of Pb than that in water. Average concentration of Pb in human hairs was 2.78 and 3.73 μg/gm in less polluted station (S5) and more polluted stations (S1 to S4) respectively indicating biomagnification of Pb in man. Tube well water appears to be more polluted than the river water and supposed to be a major threat of Pb pollution in the Bidyadhari estuary, West Bengal, India.

1 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

010384   Bhat P G;Nayak C D (Mathematics Dep, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Univ, Manipal-576 104, Email: pg.bhat@manipal.edu) : Balance index set of caterpillar and lobster graphs. Int J mathl Combinatorics 2016, 3(Sep), 123-135.

Let G be a graph with vertex set V(G) and edge set E(G). Consider the set A = {0, 1}. A labeling f : V(G) → A induces a partial edge labeling f* : E(G) → defined by f*(xy) = f(x), if and only if f(x) = f(y) for each edge xy ∈ E(G). For i ∈ A, let v_f(i) = |{v ∈ V(G) : f(v) = i}| and e_f* (i) = |{e ∈ E(G) : f*(e) = i}|. A labeling f of a graph G is said to be friendly if |v_f(0) - v_f(l)| ≤ 1. A friendly labeling is balanced if |e_f* (0) - e_f* (1)| ≤ 1. The balance index set of the graph G, BI(G), is defined as {|e_f*(0) - e_f(l)| : the vertex labeling f is friendly}. In this paper, we obtain the balance index set of caterpillar graphs and lobster graphs.

4 illus, 6 ref

010383   Alharbi W R;Alamoudi Z M (King Abdulaziz Univ, Physics Dep, Faculty of Science, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) : Natural radioactivity of types coal consumed in Saudi Arabia. Indian J envir Prot 2016, 36(2), 149-55.

Radioactivity naturally occurring due to the presence of the radionuclides: 40K, 238U, 226Ra and 232Th in the most kind of coal which consumed in Saudi Arabia were measured by using gamma ray spectrometer (HYPGe). The average activity concentrations of 238U, 40K, 232Th and 226Ra in coal were measured. All observed results except the Somali and Iran samples are at the safe range. To assess radiological risk arising to the use of coal for heat homes and cook foods, the absorbed gamma doses in air (D), radium equivalent activity (Ra ), annual effective dose (AEDE.ndoor) and external hazards index (H_{ex) have been determined. The obtained results are less than the global average values.}

1 illus, 2 tables,

010382   Al-wadaey A;Ziadat F;Oweis T;Elkhboli M; Alboueichi A (Soil, Water and Environment Dep, ) : Targeting sub-watersheds with conservation practices using SWAT model and GIS techniques in Libya. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1353-62.

Rainfall in the arid and semi arid areas is limited with high spatial and temporal variability resulting in low water productivity. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) and supplemental irrigation (SI) can improve water productivity, control erosion and contribute to adaptation to climate change and variability. The possibility of implementing RWH and SI depends on climate, hydrology, vegetation, agriculture practices, and soils. One common reason for low adoption of improved land and water management practices is the lack of systematic knowledge on potential areas and suitable locations for these interventions. This study aimed to identify areas within watersheds that are most suitable for RWH and SI, to maximize the benefits from their implementation. SWAT (Soil Water Assessment Tool) was used to identify suitable areas in four watersheds in eastern and western Libya. The paper presents a methodology that enable water managers to assess the suitability for RWH and SI for such large watershed areas (87-900 km²). GIS layers including digital elevation model (DEM), soil data, and land use were used to characterize the watershed for modeling. Data from eleven weather stations for eleven years (2000-2010) were used for simulation. Model output was used to assess hydrological process by estimating runoff coefficient (rainfall: runoff) in each sub-watershed and hydrologic response unit (HRU). Runoff coefficients at HRUs varied from zero to 0.23, with significant variation among the four watersheds. Areas where RWH and SI can be implemented can be identified based on runoff coefficient at field scale, while other techniques such as large dams can be placed on the stream network where high runoff is generated. These results were integrated with GIS layers of land use, soil and community distribution to identify potential sites for RWH and SI techniques. Results also indicate variable areas as suitable for RWH and SI for different watersheds.The results of the hydrological models were integrated with biophysical and socio-economic information to provide a useful tool to target RWH and SI as part of sustainable planning at watersheds level. This approach appreciate the role of spatial variability within watersheds and the importance of multi-disciplinary integration as viable tools for sustainable resource planning in the dry environment and under climate change scenarios.

11 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

009405   Zulal Sonmez V;Sivri N;Handan Dokmeci A (Environmental Engineering Dep, Istanbul Univ, Istanbul 34320, Turkey, Email: nuket@istanbul.edu tr) : Determination of the toxicity of different discharge waters using acute toxicity tests approved for national pollutant discharge permit in Turkey. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(2), 609-14.

Nowadays, three methods which target the evaluation of the characteristics of ecotoxicology tests according to aquatic trophic level are well-known, approved methods. In Turkey, the toxicity dilution factor (TDF) method, approved by Turkish Water Pollution and Control Regulation, and Lebistes reticulatus the actual method name that utilizes this animal which is a high level consumer, are used in the assessment of acute toxicity levels of waste waters with different compositions. However; it is not preferred by researchers except statutory obligations due to its disadvantages in implementation. The other method Daphnia magna, which belongs to secondary trophic group, is also widely used. Vibrio fischeri which is based on bioluminescent bacteria is mostly preferred due to ability of giving fast and precise results in acute toxicity assessment tests. In this study, specific to Turkey, it is aimed to compare issues such as experimental process, time, cost, efficiency, repeatability, etc. of tests that take place in the related legislation and standards. In light of all this information, it is determined the insufficient parts about legal regulations related to toxicity in Turkey. It can be suggested that bioluminescence bacteria (V. fischeri), defined all around the world recently with its precision, optimal cost, repeatability features be used in Legal Regulations of Turkey. It is aimed to contribute to scientific literature, this study being the first on suggesting an innovative approach about acute toxicity test in Turkey.

3 tables, 20 ref

009404   Zhou C;Duan W;Luo X;Chen Y (NO, , Zhuoyue Comprehensive Utilization of Renewable Resources Co. Ltd., Ganzhou 341700, P.R. China, Email: 1264702358@qq.com) : Removal of As(III) from water by fenton oxidation coupled with flocculation. Asian J Chem 2017, 29(1), 171-4.

As the deterioration of arsenic pollution problem, the experimental research on removal of As(III) from water by Fenton oxidation coupled with flocculation were studied. 0.5 mg/L arsenite [As(III)] water was treated by Fenton oxidation-flocculation coupled process and single flocculation process respectively. Various influence factors of Fenton method on arsenic removal were studied. The results show that Fenton method for removal of arsenic(III) is superior to single flocculation. The removal of arsenic(III) is mainly attributed to Fenton reagent reaction directly. The optimum conditions of removal of arsenic(III) from water was pH 3, H₂O₂ 10 mg/L, Fe^{2+/H₂O₂ (n/n) 0.2, reaction time 10 min, As(III) removal reached to 95.17%. And Fenton oxidation-flocculation method is used for drinking water treatment, the residual concentration of arsenic in water after treated group is lower than "drinking water health standards" (GB5749-2006) in the standard of 0.01 mg/L.}

6 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

009403   Yakout A A;El-Hady D A;Albishri H M;Shaker M A;Abdel-Salam A H;Et-Ahl A S;Ali M E S (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Science, Jeddah Univ, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Email: aayhussain@uj0edu.sa) : Solvothermal magnetic graphene oxide for efficient and fast remediation of p-nitroaniline from industrial wastewaters. Asian J Chem 2017, 29(1), 175-80.

Pollution by aromatic compounds such as p-nitroaniline in ecosystem has raised significant concerns. A fast and effective removal of p-nitroaniline can be carried out by magnetic graphene oxide as a potential sorbent. Different mechanisms including π-π interaction, ion-ion and cation-π bonding interactions have been proposed to describe the strong deposition of p-nitroaniline onto magnetic graphene oxide surface. The % removal of p-nitroaniline was found to be pH-dependent and attained a maximum value at pH 7.2. The adsorption was best described by Langmuir model with a theoretically estimated maximum adsorption capacity of 482.7 mg g^{-1, which was very close to the measured value. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order equations very well. The applicability of magnetic graphene oxide for the adsorption of p-nitroaniline from industrial wastewater samples was successfully accomplished.}

4 illus, 3 tables, 56 ref

009402   Yadav S K;jain M K (Environmental and Engineering India School of Mines, , Dhanbad-826 004) : Exposure to particulate matter in different regions along a road network, Jharia coalfield, Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(1), 131-9.

Occupational particulate matter (PM) concentrations were measured during November 2014 along a road network in the mining and non-mining areas at Jharia coalfield, Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India. The monitoring was conducted for a week in the peak time using a portable GRIMM (model 1.109) aerosol spectrometer. Measured PM was designated as inhalable, thoracic and alveolic particles for aerodynamic diameter 10-34, 4-10 and less than 4 μm respectively. The main sources of PM along the roadside in the study area were mining operations as well as heavy traffic and resuspension of road dust. Concentration of inhalable particles was maximum at Bankmore (BMO), whereas concentration of thoracic and alveolic particles was maximum at Katrasmore (KMO) in the mining area. Concentration of all three types of particles was minimum at the Indian School of Mines in the non-mining area. The distribution curves of inhalable particles were positively skewed and platykurtic in nature, whereas for thoracic and alveolic particles these curves were positively skewed at all locations, except BMO and also platykurtic in nature, except Godhar (GDR). Contribution of alveoli particle sizes for 0.375 and 2.750 μm was observed to be significant in the mining area, whereas thoracic particle size for 5.750 μm and inhalable particle size for 22.500 μm were also observed to be higher in the mining area, except Matkuria check post and Kustaur. The results reveal that residents and local passengers were exposed to a prodigious amount of inhalable, thoracic and alveolic concentrations in the mining area, mostly at BMO, GDR and KMO.

5 illus, 5 table, 43 ref

009401   Yadav A S;Kulkarni A A;Ghag D B;Pisal P A (Geology Dep, Civil Engineering Dep, Dr. J. J. Magdum College of Engineering, Jaysingpur-416 101, Email: drsayadav2000@gmail.com) : Groundwater suitability for irrigational purpose in Hatkanagale taluka, Kolhapur district, Maharashtra, India. J envir Sci Engng 2014, 56(4), 431-40.

The groundwater suitability for irrigational purposes of Hatkanagale taluka (latitude 16°37' 11" N to 16° 54' 51" N and longitude 74°13'25" E to 74°28' 31" E) was carried out and 32 dug well water samples were collected. The chemical analysis of these water samples reveals that 100% groundwater samples of pre-monsoon season and 78% groundwater samples of post-monsoon season represent Ca+Mg<62>Na+K (alkaline earth exceed alkalies) hydrochemical facies, while 18% and 4% groundwater samples of post-monsoon season represent Na+K<62>Ca+Mg (alkalies exceed alkaline earth) and Ca+Mg (alkaline earths) hydrochemical facies respectively. Similarly, 87.5% groundwater samples of pre-monsoon season and 78% groundwater samples of post-monsoon season belong to C1+SO₄<62>HCO₃+CO₃ (strong acid exceeds weak acid) hydrochemical facies, while 12.5% and 22% groundwater samples represent C1+SO₄(strong acid) hydrochemical facies in pre and post-monsoon seasons respectively. U. S. Salinity diagram of the groundwater samples belongs to C₂-S, to C₃-S, type and C₂-S₁ to C₃-S₂ type in pre and post-monsoon seasons respectively indicating medium to high salinity hazards. The values of Sodium Adsorption Ratio, Residual Sodium Carbonate, Magnesium hazards, Kelley's ratio and Chloride concentrations for both the seasons are within permissible limit, indicate that the quality of groundwater is excellent for irrigation. The Gibb's diagram shows chemistry of groundwater is controlled by evaporation dominance.

5 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

009400   Vijayakumari N;Srinivasan K (Chemistry Dep, College of Engineering, Salem-11, Email: vijayakum_79@yahoo.co.in) : Adsorption of nickel(II) from aqueous solution by bicarbonate modified coconut oilcake residue carbon. J envir Sci Engng 2014, 56(3), 255-62.

The adsorption of Ni (II) on modified coconut oilcake residue carbon (bicarbonate treated coconut oilcake residue carbon-BCORC) was employed for the removal of Ni (II) from water and wastewater. The influence of various factors such as agitation time, pH and carbon dosage on the adsorption capacity has been studied. Adsorption isothermal data could be interpreted by Langmuir and Freundlich equations. In order to understand the reaction mechanism, kinetic data has been studied using reversible first order rate equation. Similar studies were carried out using commercially available activated carbon - CAC, for comparison purposes. Column studies were conducted to obtain breakthrough capacities of BCORC and CAC. Common anions and cations affecting the removal of Ni (II) on both the carbons were also studied. Experiments were also done with wastewater containing Ni (II), to assess the potential of these carbons.

7 illus, 10 table, 10 ref

009399   Valipour A;Azizi S H;Raman V K;Jamshidi S; Hamnabard N (Water and Wastewater Research Center, Water Research Institute, Shahid Abbaspour Blvd., Tehran-16765 313, Iran, Email: alirezavalipour.envi@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of the performance of two phytoremediation system for domestic wastewater treatment. J envir Sci Engng 2014, 56(3), 319-26.

The constructed wetlands as well engineered techniques have been used effectively for phytoremediation of wastewater and pollution control during the last decades. In these technologies, the naturally occurring processes of plants alongside micro-organisms present in the bio-film attached to the roots, soil substrate and water column degrade the organic pollutants. The study seeks to compare the potential use of Phragmites sp. reed bed and floating macrophyte water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) system for domestic wastewater treatment. The sewage treatment performance is evaluated as 80% & 76% chemical oxygen demand (COD), 90% & 87% biological oxygen demand (BOD5), 24% & 18% total dissolved solids (TDS), 69% & 67% total suspended solids (TSS), 12% & 5% Chlorides, 73% & 69% ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N), 42% & 31% phosphate (PO₄-P), 93% & 91% most probable number (MPN) and 95% & 92% total viable count (TVC) reduction at optimum hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 24 & 43 h in Phragmites sp. and water hyacinth systems, respectively. Likewise, the floating macrophyte pond contrary to reed bed process shows insignificant pollutant diminution at 24 h HRT. This paper also highlights the microbial population present through the wetland systems by estimation of total viable count (TVC). The botanical aspect with reference to the plant growth is shown a significant increase in vegetation yield. The overall studies indicate the better treatment efficiency by preferred Phragmites sp. root zone system at low foot print area for domestic wastewater.

7 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

009398   Turaliyeva M;Yeshibaev A;Saparbekova A; Akynova L;Abildayeva R;Sadenova M;Sartayeva K;Schieffer A;Digel I (Biotechnology Dep, South Kazakhstan State Univ named after M. Auezov, Shymkent, Kazakhstan) : Species composition and injuriousness of stranger xylophilous fauna affecting indigenous urban dendroflora of Central Asia. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2016, 18(2), 359-66.

At the present time, one of the most serious environmental problems of Central Asia and South Kazakhstan is the ongoing large-scale deterioration of principal urban tree populations. Several major centers of massive spread of invasive plant pests have been found in urban dendroflora of this region. The degree of damage of seven most wide-spread aboriginal tree species was found to range from 21.4±1.1 to 85.4±1.8%. In particular, the integrity of the native communities of sycamore (Platanus spp.), willow (Salix spp.), poplar (Populus spp.) and elm (Ulmus spp.) is highly endangered. Our taxonomic analysis of the most dangerous tree pests of the region has revealed them as neobiontic xylophilous insects such as Cossus cossus L. (Order: Lepidoptera L.) Monochamus urussovi Fisch., Monochamus sutor L., Acanthocinus aedelis L. and Netonia aureate L. (Order: Coleoptera L.). We relate the origin of this threatening trend with the import of industrial wood in the mid 90's of the last century that was associated with high degree of the constructional work in the region. Because of the absence of efficient natural predators of the pest species, the application of microbiological methods of the pest control and limitation is suggested.

s, 1 table, 26 ref

009397   Thatheyus A J;Khaja A A;Prabu S S;Ramya D (PG and Research Department of Zoology, The American College, Madurai-625 002, Email: jthatheyus@yahoo.co.in) : Biodecolorization of chosen dyes using Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Flavobacterium sp.. J envir Sci Engng 2015, 57(2), 137-44.

Two bacterial strains were isolated from textile dye effluent contaminated sites and tentatively identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Flavobacterium sp. based on the biochemical tests. These two strains were tested for their efficiency of decolorizing the dyes, Erichrome Black T, Eosin Yellow and Aniline at 10, 50, 100 and 1000 ppm concentrations for four days. Based on the absorption maxima of the respective dyes (510 nm for Eosin Yellow and 520 nm for the other two dyes), absorbance values were determined in a colorimeter during decolorization process. Among the two bacterial strains tested, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found to be more efficient, and complete decolorization was achieved within three days for all the three dyes at lower concentrations.

6 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

009396   Tauseef S M;Abbasi T;Banupriya G;Banupriya D;Abbasi S A (Centre for Pollution Control & Environmental Engineering, Pondicherry Univ, Chinakalapet, Pudhcherry-605 014) : New machine for clean and rapid separation of vermicast, earthworms and undigested substrate in vermicomposting systems. J envir Sci Engng 2014, 56(4), 495-8.

A new substrate-earthworm-vermicast separator (SEVS) system to achieve the simultaneous separation of undigested substrate, earthworms and vermicast from vermireactor contents is presented. It employs a flux of light to drive earthworms away from the substrate-vermicast mixtures and into a separate compartment while a set of motor-driven sieves achieve separation of other solids. The machine simulates threshing action on the sieves and the light-sieve combination facilitates separation of denser solids (vermicast) from lighter solids (undigested substrate), and of earthworms, simultaneously. Trials with paper waste-vermicast and cowdung-vermicast mixtures revealed that over 90% of the vermicast can be cleanly separated within 8-10 minutes of harvester operation. The innovation saves time and effort while providing clean-cut and non-destructive separation of vermicast as well as earthworms.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

009395   Sujatha M;Satyanarayana T (Environmental Sciences, K.L. Univ, Vaddeswaram, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, Email: sujatha7klu@gmail.com) : Study of hydro-chemical groups of groundwater in different geomorphic and geological settings of Sarada river basin, Andhra Pradesh. J envir Sci Engng 2014, 56(3), 283-90.

An attempt has been made to study the hydrochemistry of groundwater in Sarada River Basin (SRB). The groundwater samples were collected from dug wells and bore wells which have been analysed for cations and anions in the study area. The river basin is divided into six sub-basins for the purpose of study. The six hydrochemical groups namely sodium bicarbonate, magnesium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, calcium bicarbonate, sodium sulphate, and magnesium chloride, according to their dominant cations and anions were observed and studied in different types of rock formations, soil groups, geomorphic settings, slopes and groundwater aquifers in the area of the investigation. The hydrochemical data indicated that the groundwater was contaminated in the southern part of lower Sarada River Basin by sub-surface sea water intrusion, pollution due to the industrial wastes discharged by existing sugar factories and chemical contamination due to over use of fertilizers and pesticides in the areas of intense irrigation could be identified. In many locations maximum parameters were within the permissible limits and some were beyond the limits of drinking water standards. However, most of the groundwater of the SRB is found suitable for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes.

2 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

009394   Srinivasan K;Poongothai S (Civil Engineering Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Qualitative assessment of groundwater quality in a tank irrigated watershed, Tamil Nadu, India. J envir Sci Engng 2015, 57(2), 102-8.

Groundwater plays a major role in hard rock terrains with limited source. The quality of the available source further determines the utility of the groundwater. Hence an attempt has been made in this study to determine the quality of water and to categorise them for the different purpose, like drinking, domestic and irrigation purposes. 37 groundwater samples were collected around the tank irrigated watershed of wellington reservoir and analysed for major cations and anions. The analysed samples were classified based on the drinking water standard, SAR, RSC, Na%, electrical conductivity, total hardness, permeability index, corrosivity ratio, chloride values etc. Concludes that few of the samples fall in good category and many of them indicate low suitability and therefore groundwater from these areas have to be used judiciously for irrigation purpose.

4 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

009393   Shivakumar L;Ramakrishna Reddy K (Research & Development Centre, Bharathiar Univ, Coimbatore) : Effects of heavy metal contamination from anthropogenic sources on Narasappana Halli tank, Bengaluru, India. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2016, 6(1), 80-5.

Lakes are important part of ecosystem; it is our duty to protect and improve the natural environment of lakes to have comparison for living creatures. At present in India, lakes and wetlands are in extremely in varying degrees of environmental degradation. Because of unplanned urbanization, lakes are willfully neglected and these water bodies are encroached, full of sewage and garbage. It has been noted that among the pollutants heavy metals have been the subject of particular attention because of their long standing toxicity when they exceeding specific thresholds. In the beginning of early 1960's, Bangalore had 262 lakes, now only 10 hold water. So in my study Narasappana halli tank which covers total area of 52acre and 4 guntas connected to both Nelagaderana halli surveyNo.89 and 90 and Kariobanahalli survey No.40. The tank is well connected to small scale industries and residential areas. Water samples from the selected points are sampled and examined the concentration of various heavy metals, physico-chemical parameters and their distribution in hypereutrophic urban Narasappana halli tank system. It was found that the concentration of heavy metals such as Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), Cadmium (Cd) and Mercury (Hg) in the surface water of the tank exceeds the threshold level value of human consumption, whereas Arsenic (As) and Copper (Cu) below the permissible limit of human consumption. The physico chemical parameters studied include pH, TDS, Hardness, chlorides, sulphates, etc. The result obtained alerts that there is growing health risk with these heavy metals in human food chain.

2 tables, 16 ref

009392   Shintre S N;Thakur P (Chemistry Dep, Pune Univ, Ganeshkhind, Pune-411 007, Email: prthakur@chem.ac.in) : Synergistic effects of activated carbon on ZnO for improved photocatalytic degradation of p-nitrophenol. J envir Sci Engng 2014, 56(4), 463-70.

Here, we report the synergistic effect of heterogeneous photocatalysis by combining ZnO and activated carbon (AC) composite (ZnO/AC) towards the remediation of water polluted with hazardous organic pollutant. ZnO/AC composites were prepared by simple and non-toxic method, without use of organic solvents. The prepared composite was characterized by XRD, SEM and BET. The photocatalytic activity was tested with photodegradation of p-Nitrophenol (PNP) under UV irradiation. The present investigation showed enhanced photocatalytic degradation efficiency of ZnO/AC over ZnO. Different operational parameters like initial concentration of PNP, composite concentration, optimization of ratio of ZnO and AC, comparison of composite prepared by mechanical and physical mixing, and the effect of H₂O₂ have also been studied. The optimized concentration of ZnO/AC composite was found to be 40 mg/100mL for photodegradation of PNP. Maximum degradation of PNP was achieved for the initial concentration of 2.5 x 10^{-4mol/L. Ratios of ZnO and AC in the composite were optimized and found to be 5:1 respectively. It was observed that photocatalytic degradation by ZnO/AC composite was more effective and faster mode of removing PNP from aqueous solutions than the ZnO alone due to the synergistic effect.}

11 illus, 29 ref

009391   Schults M;Kansal A (Institute of Government and Politics, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia, Email: akansal@teri.in) : North-South perspectives on stakeholder structure governing ambient air quality - the case of Germany and India. J envir Sci Engng 2015, 57(2), 160-71.

There is a difference in the degree of success in curbing air pollution in different regions of the world. Therefore, it is of interest to explore how the management of air quality is organised. Investigates the role of stakeholders in air quality management in Germany and India, countries with a similar mix of policy instruments but different outcomes. It compares the problem solving capacity taking into account the nature of problems, policy measures and stakeholders. Draws attention to the fact that although the number and nature of pressures influencing air quality are important for the success of environmental policies, a clear stakeholder structure is at least of same importance. Concentrating on the stakeholder structure, the study indicates that the management of air quality seems to benefit from empowered civil society and implementation of subsidiarity principle. Further research on the participation opportunities of the stakeholders is needed.

6 illus, 2 tables, 50 ref

009390   Sasane V V;Patil V M (NO, SRES College of Engineering, Kopargaon, P.O. Shingnapur, Dist. Ahmednagar, Maharashtra-423 603, Email: Civil Engineering Dep) : Assessment of groundwater quality using WQI for selected rural area of Kopargaon, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra (India). J envir Sci Engng 2015, 57(1), 7-15.

Water Quality Index (WQI) has been calculated for different sources in pre monsoon and post-monsoon period (March 2012 - September 2012) including dug wells, bore wells, hand pumps and production wells at Murshatpur, Chandgavhan and Hingani villages of Kopargaon Taluka, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. Ground water was sampled at 16 locations for physiochemical analysis. For calculating the WQI, the following 10 parameters were considered: temperature, pH, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, TDS, total hardness, Calcium, Magnesium, Chloride, Fluoride. WQI in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon ranged from 226.88 to 799.15 and 173.31 to 365.82 respectively. Water quality improved in post monsoon period. High values of Alkalinity, TDS, Hardness, Calcium and Magnesium were foundin groundwater. Moreover, low cost herbs treatment can bring the groundwater parameters, such as Alkalinity, Total Dissolved Solids, Total Hardness, Chloride, Calcium and Magnesium within permissible limits which make water potable for small community area.

4 illus, 10 tables, 19 ref