016861   Naik D J;Desai K K;Vashi R T (Chemistry Dep, Veer Narmad South Gujarat Univ, Surat, Email: vashirajendra@yahoo.co.in ) : Physico-chemical characteristics of chemical sludge generated from treatment of combined wastewater of dyes and dye intermediate manufacturing industries. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 413-16.

The physico-chemical characteristics of sludge generated from treatment of combined wastewater of dyes and dye intermediates industries was studied. Combined wastewater of 12 unit manufacturing different type of dyes and dye intermediate was used for this study. Sludge are analyzed for pH, IDS, COD, BOD, Total Hardness, Alkalinity, Zinc, Copper, Lead, Chromium etc by leachate water preparation. Analysis of sludge on dry basis also carried out for parameters like Moisture, Loss on Ignition, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron etc. The study shows that the sludge was hazardous in nature and cannot be disposed as such for land filling. The study shows that proper handling and storage system is required for the disposal of solid waste.

^ssc2 tables, 8 ref

016860   Naeem I;Taskeen A;Moeen T;Mateen B (Chemistry Dep, Lahore College for Women Univ, Lahore, Pakistan, Email: Ismat4_naeem@yahoo.co.in) : New biomaterial for removal of arsenic from drinking water. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 295-302.

Arsenic is a carcinogen and a potential health hazard known to produce skin, bladder, and lung cancers. A very large segment of the population living in and around Lahore and other cities of the Punjab in Pakistan is facing a threat from contaminated ground water having dangerously high levels of arsenic. The present research has shown the biomass of Calotropis isprocera roots and aerial parts to bring the level of arsenic in arsenic contaminated water to the EPA standard within very short time and more effectively then biomass of roots and aerial parts of Pteris vitata and Eichhornia crassipes. The rate of removal of arsenic from contaminated water by roots of Calotropis procera was determined as a first step towards developing a safe, easy, indigenous and practical method of arsenic removal.

7 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

016859   Mukhortova L V;Trefilova O V (V.N. Sukachev Institute of Forest, , Russian Academy of Sciences, Siberian Branch, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Email: biosoil@forest.akadem.ru) : Features of coarse woody debris decomposition in forest ecosystems of differnet natural zones of central Siberia. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 321-33.

Investigated changes in carbon, nutrients and organic matter of differently decomposed CWD samples from forest-tundra, northern, middle and southern taiga of Central Siberia in order to assess the role of CWD in carbon and nutrient cycling in these forest ecosystems. Samples included live wood, boles at I, II and III stages of decomposition and fragments of decomposed wood from forest litter that were collected in larch, spruce, pine and fir forests. As result of the study it was found that initially living wood of trees at northern ecosystems contains larger amount of N, P, Ca and K. Carbon concentration in live wood does not differ at north and at south but its net content is larger for CWD at northern ecosystems due to the higher volume density of live wood at the north. Concentration of mobile organic matter depends on decomposition class of CWD (r=0.72). CWD from southern ecosystems accumulate larger amount of humification products than that one from northern forests. At northern latitudes CWD released larger amount of carbon and nutrients during decomposition, while southern ecosystems are characterized by nutrient immobilization and less carbon losses from CWD. It is concludes that CWD in northern and southern ecosystems play a different role in biogeochemical cycles. Logs of pine, spruce and fir in southern ecosystems are less chemically altered at the same decomposition stages than CWD of larch and spruce in northern forests, and immobilize significant amounts of nutrients. In contrast, CWD in northern ecosystems appears to be an important source of carbon and nutrient release to the soil and soil solutes.

4 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

016858   Mudgal M;Chakradhar B;Shrivastava R (NO, Advanced Material and Process Research Institute (CSIR), Bhopal, Email: mmudgal1969@rediffmail.com) : Advances in treatment technologies for industrial hazardous waste management. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(1), 34-40.

The management of hazardous wastse is a major issue of concern in India. Industrial processes/operations are the largest contributor of hazardous waste in India. With intense growth of industrialization, rapid urbanization around 4.4 million tones of hazardous waste being generated in India every year. The concern and serious need to regulate and manage hazardous waste was not realized until after the Bhopal Gas tragedy of 1984. This accident focused government attention on hazardous waste management, and subsequently in 1989, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF) of the Government of India (GOI) promulgated "Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rules". These rules set the framework for the proper handling, storage, transportation and treatment of hazardous waste in accordance with the Environment Protection Act of 1986 and was further amended by GOI in the year 2000 & 2003, and suggested modifications in Schedule-1 with list of processes generating hazardous wastes and Schedule-2 with list of waste substances with concentration limits. Categories of wastes banned for export and import have been defined in Schedule-8 whereas the procedure for registration of the recyclers/reprocessors with environmentally sound facilities for processing waste categories such as used lead acid batteries, non-ferrous metal and used oil are given in schedule-4 and schedule-5 respectively. Further, separate Rules have also been notified in continuation of the above Rules for bio-medical wastes as well as for used lead acid batteries. A number of options are available for the treatment of a variety of hazardous waste. Waste may be made less hazardous by physical, chemical, or biological treatment techniques. Treatment of hazardous waste may be costly, but it can serve to prepare the material for recycling or for ultimate disposal in a manner safer than disposal without treatment.

4 tables, 5 ref

016857   Mozumdar A;Mahajan K;Ashok K (NO, National Law Univ, Jodhpur, Email: yourstrulyanshuman@gmail.com) : Environmental torts: a step towards the legal revamping policy related to environmental protection. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 491-7.

Environment, a subject matter of utmost importance, has, undoubtedly, attracted a great deal of deliberation in the past. However, several issues remain unanswered till date. The environmental policy of the country remains full of loopholes failing to provide an appropriate forum for environment protection, especially against private individuals. The need of the hour is legislative policy based on tort law as an easy method to redress grievances against violating the Constitutional mandate of clean and healthy environment. The aim of the paper is to highlight the importance of the policy based on tort law and discussion of the present enactments for enviro-justice and other procedures and remedies for the same.

^iia30 ref

016856   Moshari M;Ebrahimi S (Faculty of Environment, Tehran Univ, Tehran, Iran) : Choghakhor wetland status signigying environmental management problems of the ecosystem. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 457-63.

Wetlands are an essential component of our global ecosystem. It is well known that the protection of wetlands is critical to a wide range of biota which depends upon these habitats for survival. Different important functions of Choghakhor wetland in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiyari province of Iran signify the importance of providing an environmental planning and management plan for the wetland, which was the main aim of this study. Five criteria of birds, fishes, threatening factors, social-economical problems and conservation status of the wetland were studied and analyzed in order to determine priority according to the status of Choghakhor wetland value, in comparisons with the 75 important wetlands of Iran (63 of these 75 have been identified of wetlands of international importance in Ramsar Convention documents). Also macro-benthos of the wetland including Oligochaeta, Chironomidae and Gammaridae were surveyed. The result was 80/140 for Choghakhor Wetland, and though got the 8th priority among all. This classification shows the potential strength of Choghakhor Wetland to have environmental management plan indeed. The result of this study illustrates that constructing dam is the most intensive threatening factor to this habitat and its biodiversity. It clearly expresses the necessity of environmental planning and management to assess the impacts in order to establish proper management and sustainable utilization of the wetland for the benefit of mankind.

12 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

016855   Mohapatra A;Mohanty R K;Mohanty S K;Dey S K (Environmental Sciences Dep, Fakir Mohan Univ, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore-756 019, Email: rajeebm@yahoo.com) : Carapace width and weight relationship, condition factor, relative condition factor and gonado-somatic index (GSI) of mud crabs (Scylla spp.) from Chilika lagoon, India. Indian J Mar Sci 2010, 39(1), 120-7.

Carapace width (CW)-weight relationship, condition factor (K), relative condition factor (Kn) and gonado-somatic index (GSI) for meaty and post-moulted crabs of both sexes of the two mud crab species, Scylla serrata (Forskal) and S. tranquebarica (Fabricius) co-existing in Chilika lagoon, Orissa, India, were studied during August, 2005 to July, 2007. CW-weight equations and correlation co-efficient (r) obtained for both sexes of meaty and water crabs of the two species were significant (P< 0.05-0.01). Regression slopes (b) were higher for males and fattened crabs in both the species. The K and Kn values recorded in each month for different size groups of both sexes of the two species were higher in male and values were relatively higher in S. tranquebarica than 5. serrata. Increase in Kn values beyond 1.0 from 81-91 mm CW in S. serrata and 111-120 mm CW in S. tranquebarica indicated the size at first maturity. Higher monthly values indicated that breeding period was extended from August-November and March-July in S. serrata and S. tranquebarica respectively. Species-specific study aimed at establishing difference in biological characters between two species of Scyllafa] from same brackishwater habitat. CW-weight relationship may be useful in setting feeding rates for a particular species in aquaculture.

4 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

016854   Mishra S;Dubey A;Shrivastava R;Thakur A S (Govt. P.G. Girls, Autonomous College, Bilaspur, Email: drseema.mishra@gmail.com) : Pollution due to vehicular automobile exhaust and occurance of upper respiratory disorders in Bilaspur city (India). J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 476-90.

The most congested area of the Bilaspur city, Gol bazar, was selected as the study site to study the effect of vehicular pollutants on the upper respiratory tract disorder. The state pollution board was requested to measure the amount of pollutants, especially SO₂ NO₂ and CO. The smoke density of 60-70 Hartridge smoke units is considered to be permissible smoke density in this study.The Gol bazaar lane is only 9 feet wide and most congested. Beside to this lane there are a number of houses situated very close to the road. We estimated the released Carbon Monoxide and Sulfur Dioxide from the vehicles, crossing the Gol bazaar lane. Also we collected the data regarding occurrence of upper respiratory tract disorders, especially allergic Bronchitis among the people living to the houses besides the lane. Out of 96 people interviewed for the occurrence of disease, 14 were reported as the victims of allergic Bronchitis. This rate of occurrence of disease is estimated very high in comparison to the other areas of the city. The seasonal variation of the disease was also noted, in winter when the smoke of the vehicle deposited very close to the houses due to cold, high-density air, the rate and the severity was noted high. Social factors are also important aspects of environment, so we collected data regarding feeding practices to the infants and children of that specific area. It is proved fact that top feeding practices less than one year of age is one of the strongest precipitating factors of Bronchitis. Out of 14 victims of the disease, 9 were bottle feeded babies during their infancy period. Chronic airway inflammation, mucus hyper secretion, reversible airway constriction, and bronchial hyper responsiveness are important pathogenic features of asthma. With the increased vehicle congestion, the severity of the disease and the number of victims were also observed increased. The present study concludes that the exhaust from the automobiles, congested lane and situating near- by houses along with the history of top feeding are precipitating factor for the increasing rate and severity of Allergic Bronchitis in Bilaspur city.

3 illus, 12 tables, 34 ref

016853   Mishra D (Chemistry Dep, Govt Geetanjali Girls PG College, Bhopal, Email: drdiwamishra@hotmail.com) : Exploration studies on Na-13X zeolite and its derivatives for environmental protection. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(4), 365-8.

Na-13X zeolite is exchanged with Ba(II) and Sr(II) ions. The compositional analysis of the parent zeolite and the exchanged derivatives has been carried out using Atomic Emission Spectroscopy - Inductive Couple Plasma, (AES-ICP). The percentage of exchange is the maximum for Sr²⁺. X-ray diffraction technique is used to determine the unit cell structure. These exchanged derivatives are then used to prepare adsorbed derivatives with NO₂ gas. The structural changes are studied by IR spectroscopy. Thermal studies of the parent zeolite, its exchanged derivatives and the adsorbed derivatives are carried out using Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA).

2 tables, 9 ref

016852   Meera S;Nandan S B (School of Marine Sciences, Cochin Univ of Science & Technology, Cochin-682 016, Email: meeras.marine@gmail.com) : Water quality status and primary productivity of Valanthakad backwater in Kerala. Indian J Mar Sci 2010, 39(1), 105-13.

The water quality and primary productivity of Valanthakad backwater (9° 55' 10. 24" N latitude and 76° 20' 01. 23" E longitude) was monitored from June to November 2007. Significant spatial and temporal variations in temperature, transparency, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, sulphides, carbon dioxide, alkalinity, biochemical oxygen demand, phosphate-phosphorus, nitrate-nitrogen, nitrite-nitrogen as well as primary productivity could be observed from the study. Transparency was low (53.75 cm to 159 cm) during the active monsoon months when the intensity of solar radiation was minimum, which together with the run off from the land resulted in turbid waters in the study sites. The salinity in both the stations was low (0.10 %o to 4.69 %o) except in August and November 2007. The presence of total sulphide (0.08 mg/ 1 to 1.84 mg/ 1) and higher carbon dioxide (3 mg/ 1 to 17 mg/ 1) could be due to hospital discharges and decaying slaughter house wastes in Station 1 and also from the mangrove vegetation in Station 2. Nitrate-nitrogen and phosphate-phosphorus depicted higher values and pronounced variations in the monsoon season. Maximum net primary production was seen in November (0.87 gC/ m^{3/day) and was reported nil in September. The chlorophyll pigments showed higher values in July, August and November with a negative correlation with phosphate-phosphorus and nitrite-nitrogen. The study indicated that the water quality and productivity of Valanthakad backwater is impacted and is the first report from the region.}

3 illus, 35 ref

016851   Mahajan C S;Jadhav R N;Narkhede S D;Ingle S T;Attarde S B (School of Environmental and Earth Science, North Maharashtra Univ, Jalgaon, Email: csmahajanpachora@gmail.com) : Assessment of winery wastewater and its impact on irrigated soil. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 365-71.

The waste water from the wine producing industry has been collected seasonally in two distinct representative situations: the vintage and non vintage season of the year. However, concentration values are higher than limits allowed by local authority for discharge into the municipal sewage system. This paper describes the successful operation of various medium scale plants in India for the treatment of grape processing, wine distilleries. The waste characteristics and treatment methods for grape wine distillery are discussed. The wastewater is strong and highly variable in terms of pollutants, and tends to become odorous upon standing. Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) are the major pollutant present in the winery waste water. When soil conditions are suitable, land treatment of wastewater for irrigated cropping or forestry systems can be successfully practiced, especially with low pollution wastewater. However, on poorly drained soils, effluent irrigation can lead to water logging as well as salinization and sodification due to inadequate salt leaching.

2 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

016850   Liyanage W K D D;Xulong L;Gamage S N; Weerakoon D K (School of Environmental Studies, China Univ of Geosciences, 38, Lumo Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P.R. China, Email: wasantha_cug@yahoo.com) : Vertebrate diversity of a regenerated forest in South-Western wet zone of Sri Lanka with special reference to Avifauna. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(1), 6-19.

At least two-thirds of the earth's terrestrial environment consists of managed ecosystems such as agricultural systems, forest plantations and human settlements. The value of these ecosystems for biodiversity conservation cannot be neglected. However, the habitat quality, richness and abundance of naturally occurring species in these ecosystems can be improved further through planned management. This will not only help biodiversity conservation but also improve the productivity of these ecosystems through stabilizing natural processes such as nutrient recycling, pollination, soil conservation and regulation of pest populations. Further, emerging new economic initiatives such as carbon trading and ecotourism has paved the way to accrue higher economic benefits through semi natural ecosystems. Therefore, in recent decades, there has been a major paradigm shift, around the world, from the extractive industrial model towards ecology-based approaches variously called eco-agriculture, agro-forestry or analog forestry. Sri Lanka had a tradition of conserving natural resources from prehistoric times. However, during the colonial era large extents of land were converted to mono crop plantations such as tea and rubber. At present almost two thirds of the land in Sri Lanka is classified as managed ecosystems. Some of these plantations have been abandoned due to various reasons and are regenerating in to semi natural ecosystems. Bangamukanda Estate (BKE), situated in Galle, Sri Lanka is an example, where an 18 hectare plantation (tea, rubber and cinnamon) has been converted to an analog forest. The land is formed into an undulating terrain with an altitudinal range of 100 m to 300 m. Further, BKE is surrounded by number of forest reserves. This study was carried out with the objective of documenting the vertebrate diversity of this analog forest in order to determine the value of analog forestry for biodiversity conservation with special reference to the birds. The study was conducted between 2003 and 2006 using two visual encounter survey methods, the line transect and quadrate sampling. A total of 207 species of vertebrates belonging to 79 families were observed including 17 amphibian species, 25 snake species, 17 tetrapod reptile species, 23 fish species, 89 bird species and 34 mammal species. Among these 48 species (23%) were endemic to Sri Lanka of which freshwater fish showed the highest endemism (48%). The vertebrate assemblage of BKE also included 12 globally threatened species. The highest diversity among all the vertebrate groups was observed among the birds including 11 endemic species and one globally threatened, 3 near threatened and 10 nationally threatened species. The results indicate that BKE is an agro-ecosystem that supports a high avifaunal diversity and richness. It was further observed that most bird species use this habitat as a temporary refugia or a feeding area, as they move from one forest patch to another. Thus, these results demonstrate the value of analogue forests in connecting the fragmented forest pafches.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

016849   Lad R K;Christian R A;Deshpande A W (Civil Engineering Dep, Sardar Vallabhabhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Email: ravindraklad@yahoo.com) : Fuzzy rule based approach for addressing environmental pollution potential of industries. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(2), 197-208.

The rapid industrialization of India in the recent past has been the striking feature of Indian economic development. The common indicators of economic welfare, such as national product and income have reflected the growth of the industry as a major indicator for the development of the nation. But other angle of industrialization has been the serious damage to the surrounding environment due to the wastes and pollutants generated from the industries. A fresh look at the pollution control strategies is, therefore, necessary. An attempt has been made to address the problem and a new formalism is proposed for classification of industry on the basis of water and air pollution potential. Vagueness in the perception of environmental experts for classification, the techno-scientific parameters in linguistic terms for the specific usage coupled with imprecision in parametric data calls for the application of fuzzy modeling. The case study relates to the application of Fuzzy Rule Based System (FRBS) for the classification of industries on the.basis of pollution potential located in the State of Maharashtra and Gujarat, India. We discuss the feasibility of approach for classification of pollution potential of the industries. This approach will be helpful for Pollution Control Boards to locate the new industry on the basis of their degree of classification of pollution potential.

8 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

016848   Kumar S;Pandey G C (Environmental Sciences Dep, Dr. R.M.L. Avadh Univ, Faizabad-224 001, Email: avadh_env1@yahoo.com ) : Presence of air pollutants at different sites of Ayodhya and Faizabad, U.P.. Asian J chem envir Res 2010, 3(1), 16-20.

Monthly analysis of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM), Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) and Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) was studied at Industrial, Rural and Urban area of Ayodhya and Faizabad. Analysis showed that RSPM and SPM was found to be more than NAAQS while SO₂ and NO₂ is within the standard of the different locations of Ayodhya and Faizabad. The average lower and upper limit of RSPM of different sites were observed as 1 57.37 -180.28, 105.30 -1 34.62 and 115.90 - 138.60 μg/m³ of industrial, rural and urban area, respectively. The SPM concentration was found to be as 504.11-51.9.50, 210.68-278.80 and 260.10-285.40 μg/m³ in industrial, rural and urban area, respectively. The SO₂ concentration was 15.67 -36.52, 7.38-20.47 and 10.38 - 30.12 μg/m³ in industrial, rural and urban area, respectively. The NO₂ concentration was 25.45-45.36, 6.71-23.60, and 12.76 -36.58 μg/m³ industrial, rural and urban area, respectively. The presence of air pollutants and their impacts would be discussed.

3 tables, 20 ref

016847   Kshirsagar R V (Post-Graduate Dep of Zoology, Prof. Ramkrishna More Arts, Commerce and Science College, Akurdi, Pune-411 044) : Toxicity evaluation of copper sulphate in the fish Gambusia affinis. Bionotes 2010, 12(2), 58.

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016846   Krishna M K;Mahalingegowda R M (Environmental Engineering Dep, P.E.S. College of Engineering, Mandya, Karnataka, Email: Krishna_mk.20@rediffmail.com) : Wind tunnel simulation study of vehicular exhaust dispersion. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(2), 226-34.

Simulation experiments were carried out in the Environmental Wind Tunnel to understand the vertical spread of pollutants (σ_z) in simulated Atmospheric boundary layers The vertical profiles of line source dispersion followed power law profile, the concentration of the tracer showed decreasing trend with increase in height above the tunnel floor and downwind distance. Twenty one hydrocarbon tracer experiments were performed to evaluate(σ_z) in simulated Atmospheric boundary layers corresponding to three different terrain roughness and approaching wind direction of 90°. It showed an increasing trend with the downwind distance. The observed values were compared with that of Rao and Keenan (1) field values, it is concluded that they were in same trend, but the observed values were higher than that of Rao and Keenan ¹. This is due to fact that field experiments were done in low roughness conditions.

6 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

016845   Koushafar M;Khajehbashi S M;Talebi S M (NO, Islamic Azad Univ, Ardestan Branch, Ardestan, Iran, Email: mkmkmkfar@yahoo.com) : Phytoremediation potential of MTBE from water resources by Lavandula. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 441-2.

Methyl tertia butyl ether (MTBE) is an organic compound with widespread used in unleaded gasoline. Although the using MTBE had some environmental advantages, it was soon cleared that this compound has adverse effect on environment and human health. Different methods have been introduced for treatment of MTBE from groundwaters. These methods are generally expensive and inefficient. Phytoremediation introduce as an effective and inexpensive technology for removal of MTBE from groundwaters and soils. The ability of Lavandula vera for removal of MTBE from water has been investigated. The plants were put in to the isolated water vessels containing a solution of MTBE with a concentration of 2000 at greenhouse condition. The water samples were analyzed for MTBE and transpiration was calculated. The mass balance method was used For estimate of the ability of the plant for removal of MTBE from the aqueous media. MTBE mass reduction of 34.86% was obtained due to the action of this plant and the volume of water transpiration was 43.33 cc in a week. High degree of removal MTBE by Lavandula vera in a short time indicates the great potential for phytoremediation of MTBE by this plant.

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016844   Khanna R (Zoology Dep, Govt. Girls P.G. College, Ujjain, Email: drkhanna107@yahoo.com) : Lead modulatio on adoptive immune response in mice. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 247-50.

Recipient Swiss albino mice which received sensitized cells from peritoneal exudates (PEC), thymus (T) and bone marrow(BM) were exposed to lead and challenged with human dwarf tapeworm Hymenolepis nana, Oral lead exposure suppressed the immune response as indicatd by low values of different fractions of immunoglobulins and increase in susceptibility to infection at larval and adult developmental stages in passively immunized mice. Both the humoral and cellular components of the immune system have failed to cooperate in the expulsion of worms but recients of snsitized T-cells showed lesser suppression of immune response in comparison to other recipient groups.

2 tables, 13 ref

016843   Khan R;Vyas H (NO, Govt. Kalidas Girls College, Ujjain, Email: harish_vyas_in@yahoo.com) : Impact of brick industries on environment and human health in Ujjain city (India). J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 421-5.

Indian brick industry is the second largest brick producer in the world after China. The industry has an annual turn over of more than 10000 crores and it is one of the largest employment generating industries. In Ujjain (India), many brick industries are situated on the banks of Kshipra river. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of brick making process on environment and human health. The results show that there are adverse effects of these industries on soil, water, air, vegetation and human health. Bricks are mainly made of soil and numbers of additives are added to the soil to increase the strength of bricks. The use of excessive amount of soil causes soil degradation. These industries use huge amount of fuel and kiln process used at present in these industries is highly inefficient which leads to air pollution and causes damage to vegetation and human health. Besides these, the waste along with water flows back in the Kshipra river, increasing the total solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, calcium hardness, total hardness etc. High pollution levels in Kshipra river near these industries has been noticed, which could be possibly due to leaching of compounds from raw materials used in brick industries. It is not possible to prohibit these industries because they are essential for economic growth and development of the city. The paper discusses the effect of these industries on the environment and human health and suggests alternative sustainable strategies for the kiln process, so that economic development and environmental protection can go hand in hand.

2 tables, 15 ref

016842   Khan A;Al-Salme S (Costal and Air Pollution Dep, Environment and Urban Development Div, Institute for Scientific Research, Safat 13109, Kuwait) : Seasonal variation effect of airborne pollutants in an urban area of the state of Kuwait. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 215-18.

Data collected at an urban area located on the costal line of the Arabian Gulf was analyzed to determine the seasonal variation and effects of three major primary pollutants. The pollutants chosen were methane (n-CH₄), NOx and benzene. Methane and NOx were chosen since there sources cover a wide sector of the areas under investigation of urban development. Benzene was chosen for study since it is considered the primary airborne carcinogen with the highest cancer slope potency factor. The objective of the study is to determine over the three years period of investigation the trends of these gases and response to metrological and climatic conditions. It was found that dust adsorption had a great influence on methane ambient levels. NOx and benzene were greatly affected by each seasonal condition.

3 tables, 9 ref

016841   Kaushik I;Melwani R (Civil Engineering Dep, Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: inderjeet.kaushik@gmail.com) : Time series analysis of ambient air qualit at ITO intersection in Delhi (India). J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(2), 268-72.

Air pollution is an important and popular topic of concerns at ITO intersection in Delhi as health impact concerns have been raised caused by vehicle exhausts and industrial exhausts in recent years. Sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂) and respirable suspended particulate matters (RSPM) are major air pollutants caused by the dominant usage of diesel, petrol and CNG fuels by vehicles and industries. These major air pollutants impose harmful impact on human health. In this study, the varying trends of ambient air quality and the levels of related air pollutants are analyzed based on the database monitored at Bahadurshah Jafar marg near ITO intersection, air quality monitoring station. Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) approach, implemented by Box-Jenkins is used to forecast the levels of ambient air quality parameters. The performance evaluations of the adopted models are carried out on the basis of correlation coefficient (R²) and root mean square error (RMSE). The results indicate that the seasonal ARIMA model provide reliable and satisfactory predictions for the air quality parameters and expected to be an alternative tool for practical assessment and justification.

^ssc3 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

016840   Kashyap S M (Analytical Instruments Div, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur-440 020, Email: sm_kashyap@neeri.res.in) : Characterization of incineration ash for possible PCB congeners. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(1A), 485-7.

PCBs are considered environmental pollutants because of their toxicity, their ability to accumulate in living organisms and their existence in the environment. They produce lethality, reproductive toxicity, immuno toxicity in human beings. So to get prevented from these effects it has become essential to determine the PCBs in various environmental systems. Among waste treatment methods incineration seems to be a relatively inexpensive, more flexible and reliable technology as compared to composting. A large variety of halogenated polycyclic aromatic compounds have been identified in the emission from municipal solid waste (MSW) incinerators. PCBs have been identified in fly ash and in flue gas from MSW incinerators. Although PCBs are present in lesser extent in waste, but they could also be formed by dimerization of polychlorinated benzene (PCBs) during combusion. The paper describes the methodology used for extraction and clean up. It is observed that sonication is one of the best techniques for extraction. Different solvents are also used to study the extraction efficiency. The concentration of PCBs in ash is low as the incinerated ash used was generated in NEERI campus.

2 illus, 5 ref

016839   Karale R S;Wadkar D V;Nangare P B (Civil Engineering Dep, RSCOE, Pune, Maharashtra, Email: karalers@rediffmail.com ) : Removal and recovery of hexvalent chromium from industrial waste water by precipitation with due consideration to cost optimization. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(2), 209-16.

Chromium is one of the heavy metal coming from various industries having high toxicity. The compounds of chromium especially Cr (VI) are known to be detrimental to human beings and animals. The main objective is to adopt appropriate methods and to develop suitable techniques either to prevent metal pollution or to reduce it to very low levels with due consideration to cost optimization. Extensive chemical analysis was done to detoxify CrJVI) by reducing it to Cr (III) by using reducing agents such as ferrous sulphate and sodium metabisulphite, and the precipitation of chromium hydroxide by addition of base. Also experiments were conducted to study the effect of reduction time and pH on the reduction of chromium for various doses of reducing agents. In this paper, efforts have been made to highlight the cost economics of removal and recovery of chromium.

5 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

016838   Kalaiselvi P;Mahimairaja S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore) : Influence of distillery spentwash on nutrient content and uptake of groundnut crop. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 341-58.

The effect of different levels and methods of spentwash application on nutrient content and uptake was examined through a field experiment. The field experiment was conducted using Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) as a test crop at Research and Development Cane Farm. The Salem Co-operative Sugar Mills Ltd., Mohanur, Namakkal District (India). The different levels of spentwash was applied to the field in one time and continuous split doses of application. The application of spentwash has brought out significant increases in the content and uptake of nutrients (N, P, K and Ca) by groundnut. Crop that received the spentwash at the rate of 120 m^{3 ha-1 + NP fertilizers were found to have higher contents and uptake of nutrients. The results have demonstrated that the nutrients dynamics in soil as effected by the spentwash application appeared to have played a major role on the growth and yield of groundnut. Crop uptake of nutrients (N, P, K) showed a strong positive correlation with groundnut (kernel) yield. Both the apparent N recovery (ANR) and N use efficiency (NUE) were greater when the spentwash was applied in split doses. The increase in the availability of N due to higher rate of mineralization favoured greater uptake by groundnut and resulted in higher NUE.}

6 illus, 5 tables, 8 ref

016837   Jegannathan K R;Seng C E;Ravindra P (Centre of Materials and Minerals, School of Engineering and Information Technology, Universiti Malaysia, Sabah, Malaysia, Email: dr_ravindra@hotmail.com) : Immobilization of lipase in K-carrageenan by encapsulation - an environmental friendly approach. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 431-9.

The objective of this work was to immobilize lipase enzyme in a natural polymer matrix forming a liquid core capsule. The immobilization was done by encapsulation method using a coaxial needle with lipase enzyme solution as inner core solution and K-carrageenan solution as outer core solution. Both the solutions were dropped by extrusion through the coaxial needle in a carrier stream (palm oil) followed by hardening. The microscopic picture of the encapsulated lipase shows the lipase core enzyme confined in the middle surrounded by the polymer membrane. The encapsulated lipase in K-carrageenan was spherical in shape with an average diameter of 1.6 mm and 5% coefficient of variance. The activity studies revealed that the immobilized enzyme was stable at pH range 5-9 and temperature range of 25-45 °C. The encapsulated lipase shows good operational and reusable properties. The immobilized lipase enzyme can be a potential heterogeneous catalyst for various hydrolysis and esterification reactions. The encapsulation of lipase in a natural polymer makes the immobilization process environmental friendly.

5 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

016836   Jaikrishna R (NO, National Univ of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi, Kerala, Email: jaikrishna18@gmail.com) : Legislative framework for the protection of wetlands. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 498-501.

Wetlands occupy only 6% of the surface of the earth, however there existence is an inevitable factor in flood control, food production, water supply and purification and wildlife habitat across the world. Increasing urban settlement and industrial establishments in causing diminution to these lands. A comprehensive legislation has to be enacted along with Rules for the respective State, taking aid from 'Ramsar Convention' of 1975. It has been the obligation of India to carry out Convention's mandate after it has accented to the convention on 1981. This Constitutional obligation coupled with the State responsibilities necessitates the states instrumentalities to enact a legislation implementing the concept of wise use and conservation of wetlands. The implementation of the scheme of the legislation has to go beyond the Ramsar sites. The following have to be the contents of the legislation scheme- (i) Creation of Governmental bodies for research, study and execution of the plans (ii) National Environment Action Plans, (iii) National Biological Strategies, (iv) Other National Strategic Planning.

^iia1 illus, 7 ref

016835   Haron M J;Rashid K A (Applied Economics Dep, Faculty of Arts and Environmental Studies, Universiti Putra, Malaysia-43400, Email: haron@fsas.upm.edu.my) : Environment and its changing perspectives on development. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 297-304.

Industrializations has led to the rapid development for mankind but simultaneously degraded the environment and generated biological imbalances. Rapid exploitation of natural resources have posed the greatest danger before the humanity ranging from local to regional and up to global level. The paper has made an attempt to see the interaction and interlinkages between economic development and environmental degradation and to see the changing concept of development and it's interlinkages with social environmental problems. There are divergent perceptions among the developed and developing nations about the root cause of global environmental problems and the ways of solutions. It has been analysed that how the global policies are being seen as an impositions on developing countries aspirations. In this context national polices have also been analysed. The paper finds that to prevent more degradation of environment developmental aspirations of developing nations must have to be recognized and poverty must be uprooted as soon as possible. For that market based solutions to global and national economic problems, as has been prescribed by the developed nations, may not prove very helpful and the International institutions must abandon dogmatic approach towards the problems of the third world countries and help in removing poverty and achieving sustainable development.

18 ref

016834   Gupta N;Mandloi D;Amritphale S S;Navin Chandra;Sikarwar A (Applied Chemistry Dep, Shri G.S. Inst of Technology and Science, Indore, Email: arunsikarwar@yahoo.co.in) : Removal of heavy metal using hybrid precursor prepared by agro residue (Rice husk). J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(4), 357-64.

Rice husk is an abundantly available waste material in all rice producing countries. In certain regions this low value agricultural by product is used as a fuel for parboiling paddy in rice mills, it produced 13-15MJ/kg of energy. The partially burned rice husk in turn contributes to more environmental pollution. This rice husk contains nearly 20 percent silica, can be made into adsorbent material, which is used, in environmental remediation. Developed countries have accepted and followed the concept of "no waste" and all such materials are termed as "new resources" for new material development through value addition. In the present study hybrid precursor, which contains both carbon and silicon, used for the removal of heavy toxic metals, such as lead, copper and zinc present in wastewater The efficiency of the hybrid precursor in the removal of heavy metals is approximately 90%.

6 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

016833   Goswami R;Bhabani Devi;Sarma K P (Environmental Science Dep, Tezpur Univ, Napaam, Tezpur-784 028, Email: sarmakp@tezu.ernet.in) : Comparative study on accumulation of cadmium in three aquatic plants. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 359-64.

This study demonstrates the comparative phytoremediation potential of three aquatic plants viz; Eichhornia crassipes, Pistia stratiotes and Lemna minor for the removal of cadmium (Cd). The plants were cultured in tap water, which were supplemented with different concentrations of Cd and were separately harvested after 24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs. The experiment showed that the removal of Cd from solution was fast especially on 24 hrs in all the plants. Among the three plants percent removal was highest in Lemna minor i.e. 97.86% in 24hrs. Maximum metal accumulation was observed in the dry biomass of Lemna minor (20.21mg/g dry wt) followed by Pistia stratiotes (9.045 mg/g dry wt) and Eichhornia crassipes (6.29 mg/g dry wt) at highest initial concentrations. There was gradual decrease in chlorophyll content with increase in concentration and the highest reduction was observed in Lemna minor (99.9%) as compared to Pistia stratiotes (90.4%) and Eichhornia crassipes (83.2%).

3 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

016832   Garg N K;Gupta V K;Vyas R K (Physics Dep, Govt. Madhav Science College, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, Email: nkgarg_10ujn@yahoo.co.in) : Noise pollution and its impact on urban life. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 290-6.

Noise Pollution Level observations were carried out at Ujjain (India) during Kumbmela - 2004 and in the year 2006, with the help of portable sound level meter. During Kumbh mela, noise level was found to be maximum 115 db. Noise level of other cities have also been compared. Bhopal has been found to be the most sound polluted city in M.P. (India). On the other hand Hardwar (a holy town) has been observed is more noise polluted as compared to Mumbai.

3 illus, 8 tables, 9 ref

016831   Gandage A S;Ranadive M S (Civil Engineering Dep, Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Pune) : Ecosystem based disaster management. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 643-50.

Most of the disasters are caused due to neglect or uncontrolled exploitation of Natural Ecosystems. Well managed ecosystems can help to mitigate disasters like landslides, cyclones, floods. In case of long term Relief and Disaster Management works focus should be directed to development, protection and sustainance of ecosystems. Ecosystems can act as first line of defense for vulnerable community against disasters. Ecosystem Approach of Disaster Management aims at planning, designing and implementation of strategy to manage or restore ecosystems and their services that will help in satisfying human livelihood needs. Also it focuses on sensitizing human community on importance of ecosystem and their contributions and responsibilities in protecting the sustaining ecosystem. No efforts to restore ecosystems after a major disaster can cause significant economic and environmental losses and impose hardships on already vulnerable community. Ecosystem approach based Disaster Risk Reduction involves close and integrated coordination between Emergency," humanitarian and environmental agencies. Ensuring planned and appropriate investments in Ecosystem management and restoration is necessary to help disaster affected societies to alleviate poverty and achieve economic growth. Not considering ecosystem management in disaster preparedness and post disaster situations will increase vulnerability of peoples lives and livelihoods. This paper will focus on a local case study of a man made disaster of garbage landfill problem at Urali Devachi in Pune City and the effect of this landfill on the neighbouring ecosystem factors like impact on agricultural production, groundwater pollution and probable measures to be adopted in averting such type of ecosystem catastrophes.

^iia1 illus, 8 ref

016830   Gamage S N;Gunawardena A;Weerakoon D K; Liyanage W K D D (Animal Science Univ of Ruhuna Dep, , Mapalana, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka, Email: samangam2004@yahoo.com) : Comparative study of the leaf litter herpetofauna and Physical parameters in different agro-eco systems (Tea, rubber and oil palm) and natural rain forest in the South-Western wet-zone of Sri Lanka. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 285-94.

The study was conducted in Galle District of Sri Lanka during 2002-2004. Four sites with different land use types (tea, rubber, oil palm and natural forest) were chosen for the study. The main sampling method used was the quadrate clearance technique. In addition, several abiotic factors (litter depth and canopy cover) were also measured to determine whether they influence the herpetofauna both among and within the ecosystem types selected. A total of 279 individuals belonging to 23 species were recorded from the four study sites including 16 species of reptiles and 7 species of amphibians. Natural forest had the highest density of individuals and species richness compared to the man made habitats. Among the plantations oil palm had the highest individual density while tea had the lowest. Rubber and oil palm habitats had the same species richness while tea had the lowest richness. In the man made ecosystems the species assemblage was dominated by a few species. Further, the man made habitats tend to support common species or habitat generalists rather than the habitat specialists such as rare endemic species. On the other hand 13 out of the 23 species recorded were restricted to the natural forest including 10 endemic species. These findings clearly highlight the importance of natural forest for preservation of indigenous and endemic faunal assemblages. This study also indicates that man made ecosystems are used by a large number of species. However, the species found here are mostly the common ones while the sensitive species are restricted to the natural forest. Therefore it can be concluded that while these three agro ecosystems play an importan role in maintaining the population densities of common species of herpetofaumi they are unlikely to play a key role in conservation of threatened and endemic species.

1 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

016829   Dutta S (Environmental Science Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235) : Microbial load and diversity in vermicompost process under varied environmental conditions. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(1A), 477-80.

Composting earthworms, indigenous Perionyx excavatus and exotic Eisenia foetida and Eudrilus eugeniae were reared in two substrates, water hyacinth-cowdung mixture (Ex-I) (1 : 1) and banana residues-cowdung mixture (Ex-H) (1 : 1). The vermicomposting of mixtures were carried out for 45 days. The total bacterial and total fungal population increased throughout the experiments and especially in casts of two exotic species. Two types of fungi, Drechslera sp. and Aspergillus niger were found in the casts formed by three species.

4 tables, 9 ref

016828   Diwan Singh (Civil Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra, Email: diwansingh@rediffmail.com) : Biosorption of copper(II) from aqueous solution by non-living Spirogyra sp.. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 227-31.

The biosorption of Cu(II) by a dried green alga Spirogyra sp. was investigated. Optimal initial pH for Cu(II) sorption was found to be 4. The uptake of Cu(II) by algal biomass is very rapid in the initial contact time of 10 minutes. Metal uptake capacity of Spirogyra sp. was found to be increasing with increase in initial metal ion concentrations. When the initial Cu(II) concentration was increased from 10 to 100 mg/L, metal uptake of biomass increased from 6.2 to 23.9 mg/g of biomass. The experimental data fitted well in both the Freundlich and Langmuir Isotherms(R²>0.9819). Q_max obtained from the Langmuir Isotherms was found to be 28.7 mg/g of biomass.

4 illus, 8 ref

016827   Dhere A M;Nikam B T (Environmental Science, Indira College of Commerce and Science, Pune-411 033, Email: prof.amardhere@indiraundergrads.ac.in) : Scope of utilisation of sugar industry's effluent for irrigation. Asian J chem envir Res 2010, 3(1), 83-5.

There are many districts in Maharashtra state have agricultural drought periods. Maharashtra state has more than 135 Sugar industries including cooperative and private. Many of these sugar industries are located in the semi drought prone areas. While sugar industries have release the million liters of the effluent directly on the other water streams. In contrary to this situation, the present research article analyse the scope of the sugar industry's waste water (called as effluent) for irrigation. The effluent (waste water after treatment) found to be suitable amount of organic load viz. it optimum Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), total hardness, very less amount of coliform count and this is suggested for irrigation. This study pertaining to the measurement of chemical, bio-chemical and other parameters was done in the laboratory. Comparison of these parameters are followed to determine the health soil after irrigating with the effluent. For conducting this study effluent samples are collected from the M/S. Shakar Maharshi Shankarrao Mohite-Patil S.S.K. Ltd. Akluj Dist-Solapur, MS, India. This article concluded that proper and suitable dilution of effluent with water will be gives good crop production as well as it nourishes soil biotic system.

3 tables, 8 ref

016826   Dhakad N K;Shinde D;Choudhary P (NO, Govt. Autonomous Holkar Science College, Indore, Email: cpreetichaudhry@yahoo.com) : Water quality index of ground water (Gwqi) of Jhabua town, M.P. (India). J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 443-6.

The study deals with the determination of Water Quality Index of ground water (GWQI) of Jhabua town (M.P.) in order to ascertain the quality of water for public consumption. The perusal of the results revealed that the water is safe for drinking and domestic purposes. The present study also indicates that application of water quality index in estimating the quality of ground water appears to be promising in the field of water quality management.

^ssc4 tables, 7 ref

016825   Deshpande A;Mishra P K (Humanities and Management Dep, MANIT, Deemed Univ, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Email: deshpandea@manit.ac.in) : Urbanization, air pollution and human health. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 305-17.

Today we are faced with a series of global problems which are harming the biosphere and human life in alarming ways that may soon become irreversible. Air pollution in cities continues to pose a significant threat to health, the environment and the quality of life of millions of people across nations. Urbanization and associated growth in mobility and industrialization have resulted in the intensification of environmental problems and specifically, air pollution in densely populated areas, causing deterioration in air quality. Many cities in Asia now have to take action to enhance their institutional and technical capabilities to monitor and control air quality and implement preventive measures to reduce the risks that air pollution poses to their citizens. The objective of the study is to conduct an enquiry of the consequences of urbanization on the environment with a focus on managing air pollution in cities. The process of urbanization with enhanced economic activities have lead to increased pressure on environment fabric, in other words the urban development and increased urban air pollution in turn has affected the human health, which has led to declined productivity, poor efficiencies and has compounded the cost of urbanization. Epidemiological studies carried out in cities in developed countries reveal certain dose of response functions, in the form of exposure to a pollutant, and the health response to it in terms of increased mortality and morbidity only, but its relationship with development efforts have remain untouched therefore in this study, linkages of urbanization, urban air pollution and human health is being looked from the development perspective.

5 illus, 5 tables, 23 ref

016824   Deshmukh J;Pradhan A (Environment Div, Gujrat Mineral Develop. Corpn. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Email: jitenddeshmukh@yahoo.com) : Lead poisoning in mining with special reference to Amabaji Multi metal Mine. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 276-8.

Lead is a naturally occurring metal and has a wide range of commercial use. Also it is used as an Additive in Petrol. This wide spread demand of lead is fulfilled by mining, which may cause exposure to human being by ingestion and inhalation routes. A detailed account of respiratory toxicity and interference with haem synthesis of human exposure to lead dust is being analyzed. It is a general apprehension that lead mining has a large detrimental effect on the human health but it is important to submit here that the air borne lead level due to other activities such as emission from the vehicular exhaust has more significant effects.

^ssc7 ref

016823   Desai F P (English Dep, V.S. Patel College of Arts and Science, Bilimora-396 321, Email: psdesai69@yahoo.co.in) : Ecological ethics in vedic metaphysics and effectual method to indoctrinate environmental awareness. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(2), 636-42.

The existence on planet earth blossom due to blessing of mother earth, she is the goddess of nature according to Hindu mythology. She is the Supreme elixir of our existence on earth. She continuously plays her role from our being to perishing on this planet she sustains our life cycle in her own accordance. But our acts are not complimentary to her sustenance, thus by abusing the earth we are endangering our own existence. Increasing natural hazards are the result of our atrocious acts of exploiting our earth. Ancient Indian texts reveal the concern for environmental issues in form of mythology and tradition. This paper examines some of the beliefs and practices underlying traditional Hindu religions' attitude towards nature and its strategic extension as a tool for Environmental conservation. It is high time we turn to our ancestral roots because by protecting environment "we shall protect the entire humanity, let us pass on the rich Vedic heritage and its teachings to our future generations and make this earth a better place for them to live in.

^iia5 illus, 23 ref

016822   Daud Z;Aziz H A;Adlan M N (Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 86400 Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia, Email: zawawi@uthm.edu.my) : Treatment of semi-aerobic leachate by combined coagulation-flocculation and filtration method. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 2(2), 101-10.

Landfill leachate is a complexed wastewater and its composition and concentration of contaminants are influenced by many factors such as the type of waste disposited and the age of landfill. To date many research works have been undertaken on leachate treatment and a lot of focus has been given on the integrated approach. An integrated technique consisted of filtration by limestone-zeolite followed by coagulation-flocculation processes was presented in this paper aiming to provide an efficient method for the treatment of semi-aerobic leachate containing high colour and COD concentrations. The landfill leachate used in this study was taken from the Pulau Burung Landfill Site (PELS), which is located in Penang, Malaysia. The concentrations of colour and COD were 3310 Pt.Co and 2120 mg/L respectively at this site and these two parameters were among the most problematic to the landfill operators. The application of filtration by a mixture of limestone-zeolite (15:25 ratio by volume) and filtration rate = 0.0025 m3/m2.minute showed that about 45% and 35% of colour and COD were removed, respectively after 10 days of experiments. The subsequent treatment by coagulation-flocculation using polyaluminum chloride (PAC) as coagulant indicated that the removals of colour and COD of up to 93% and 56% respectively were achieved at optimum dosage of 2000 mg/L. Results indicated that the filtration by a mixture of limestone-zeolite (15:25) followed by coagulation-flocculation at optimum dosage of 800 mg/L PAC, was efficient to reduce colour and COD to 99% and 70% respectively.

4 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

016821   Datta S (Zoology Dep, East Calcutta Girls College, Lake Town, Kolkata, Email: subrata_0202@yahoo.com) : Effects of some pesticides on the embryonic stages of chick. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 340-6.

It has been reported that different insecticides and pesticides which are commonly used in the field, not only cause harm to the adult animals but also in their embryonic stages. Of the different pesticides, we have used Furadan-3G (Carbofuran insecticide) and Malathion (Organo phosphorus/ water soluble) to know their effects on the embryonic stages of the chick. Rhode Island Red and white leg horn-these two varieties of poultry chickens were used in this study. Sterile distilled water was used for control set and the whole experiment was done in aseptic (sterile) condition. Immediately after fertilization, the fertilized eggs were incubated in different hours in an artificial incubator. For this, first, the Furadan was injected on to the airspaces of the freshly fertilized eggs of the chickens in differents doses at ug (microgram) level and immediately after injection, the injected portion was sealed by a mixture of molten paraffin and lac. Similarly, the Malathion was used. Immediately after treatment, the eggs were incubated in an incubator. L D 50 (lethal dose) was 50 ug/ml. After 24 hours, 48 hrs. and 72 hrs. of incubation the treated eggs were ruptured and the embryos of different hours were preserved in 70% alcohol in respect to the control sets in each case. After dehydration and eosin staining and mounting, the permanent slides containing embryos were examined. The Furadan and Malathion treated embryos showed "Terata" (abnormal morphology) formation with head trunk fusion. When the experiment was carried out for 21 days, most of the treated embryos died whereas only 5-7% of the embryos developed into adult with abnormal growth as terata (Head - trunk fusion and deformed legs) in both cases (Furadan and Malathion) and in both varieties (Rhode Island Red and White leg horns). For the histological study, Furadan and Malathion treated 24 hrs., 48 hrs. and 72 hrs. chick embryos were sectioned (Microtomy). The treated set showed abnormal morphology, particularly in the limb bud region (About 72 hrs.) while the control showed normal histology. Biochemical analysis of the "Treated" embryos showed deviation in the standard curves plotted against hours and also variation in protein and nucleic acid analysis when their O.D. value was calculated through colorimeter but the control did not show such variation. From the above study, it can be concluded that terata formation is definitely due to the effect of the Furadan and Malathion pesticides.

8 illus, 6 ref

016820   Das A P;Mishra S (NO, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Orissa, Email: alok1503@gmail.com) : Hexavalent chromium (VI): environment pollutant and health hazard. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 386-92.

Cr (VI) is a notorious environmental pollutant because it is a strong oxidant and much more toxic than Cr (III). It has wide applications in various industries such as stainless steel, electroplating of chrome, dyes, leather tanning and wood preservatives. High doses of Cr (VI) have been associated with birth defects and cancer. Plants and animals do not bio accumulate chromium; therefore, the potential impact of high chromium levels in the environment is highly toxic to plants and animals. In human beings this toxicity may be expressed as skin lesions or rashes and kidney and liver damage. Chronic exposure to Cr (VI) in the form of lead chromate effects on carcinogenicity and is found to induce persistent or increasing chromosome damage. Cr (VI) is mobile in soil, more toxic, and penetrates more readily into the cell membranes than the trivalent form. Many factors like the biotic and abiotic factors in the environment, and characteristics of the pollutant influence the toxicity of chromium on microorganisms^{2,4. The adverse effects of chromium can be seen in many microbe-mediated processes including carbon mineralization, nitrogen transformation and mineralization of phosphorous and sulfur. The presence of chromium decreases microbial populations and also affects microbial respiration. Chromium is found to be both toxic and mutagenic to various microorganisms. A case study reflects the chromium contamination in the water bodies in and around Sukinda mines of Orissa state in India and its effect on the potential users of the contaminated water. The paper provides a social awareness among the public and suggests some remediation techniques to reduce the contamination.}

2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

016819   Cuthbertson A G S;Murchie A K (NO, Central Science Laboratory, Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ (UK), Email: a.cuthbertson@csl.gov.uk) : Necessity of correct species indentification to avoid unnecessary pesticide application. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 269-71.

Since the discovery of the predatory mite Anystis baccarum within Northern Irish apple orchards, its role in integrated pest management schemes has been well documented. However, it has been recorded that apple growers are still mis-identifying this beneficial species as the economic pest European fruit tree red spider mite; Panonychus ulmi. As a result, unnecessary pesticide applications have been applied. Therefore, there is an essential need to ensure correct identification between beneficial and pest species.

^ssc22 ref

016818   Chaurasia M;Pandey G C (Environmental Sciences Dep, Dr. R.M.L. Avadh Univ, Faizabad-224 001, Email: avadh_envl@yahoomail.com) : Phytoremediation of different polluted pond water by aquatic macrophytes (Lemnsa minor, phragmites karka, potamogeton pectinatus). Asian J chem envir Res 2010, 3(1), 50-3.

Several aquatic macrophytes (Lemna minor, Phragmites karka and Potamogeton pectinatus) were evaluated for pollutant accumulation potential of four different polluted pond waters (Khirgali pond, Indira pond, Vidya Kund pond, Dantdhawan Kund pond) under laboratory conditions. Results indicated that physico chemical characteristics of all pond water were found to be beyond the permissible level. All these macrophytes showed significant uptake potential of pollutants from pond waters of Ayodhya and Faizabad (U.P). The order of potential in of aquatic macrophytes were found to be as Phragmites karka > Lemna minor > Potamogeton pectinatus for the uptake potential of pollutants of pond waters.

1 table, 23 ref

016817   Chaudhary R;Pillai R S (Zoology Dep, Govt. Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya, Bhopal, Email: ruchira_2006@yahoo.co.in) : Physico-chemical parameters of Sasthamcottah lake (India) with reference to suitability for aquaculture. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 402-5.

The paper focuses on the physico-chemical analysis and aquaculture in Sasthamcottah Lake situated in Kollam district of Kerala (India). The physico-chemical parameters were analysed for a period of one year from June 2006 to May 2007. Most of the physico-chemical parameters indicate that the lake is eutrophic in nature. During the study period 17 species of fishes were identified. Filling up of parts of lake, domestic and agricultural wastes and domestic sewage disposal were found to be the reason for the lakea<69>™S eutrophic nature. This study indicates that the eutrophic nature of the lake is responsible for the low fish diversity.

2 tables, 15 ref

016816   Bhasin S K;Ajmer Singh;Oberoi J;Gupta K C (Applied Chemistry Dep, M M Engg. College, Mullana, Ambala, Email: poonam2104@yahoo.co.in) : Evaluation of pollution load from physico-chemical parameters of the effluent from Haryana distillery, Yamunanagar (India). J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(4), 369-73.

The physico - chemical parameters of the effluent from Haryana Distilllery, Yamuna Nagar were determined. From the various physico -chemical properties determined, Water Quality Index (WQI) values were computed to evaluate the pollution load of the effluent. According to the permissible level suggested by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), almost all the water quality parameters (WQPS) in the distillery effluent under study were found to be very high and above the permissible limits. It is concluded that the waste water being discharged by Haryana Distillery is highly polluted and it exceeds the prescribed limits for irrigation and public use. The percentage of sodium exceeds the desired limit for irrigation. Kelley's ratio, magnesium ratio and sodium absorption ratio are above the limits for irrigation. Hence the distillery effluent is to be treated before discharging it in to the Western Yamuna Canal, a source of irrigation.

2 tables, 14 ref

016815   Bhasin S K;Ajmer Singh;Kaushal J (Pharmacy Dep, Himalyan Institute of Pharmacy, Kala Amb, Himachal Pradesh, Email: skbhasin1935@yahoo.co.in) : Statistical analysis of water falling into Western Yamuna canal from Yamunanagar industrial belt and its effect on agriculture. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 393-401.

The correlation and regression technique has been adopted to monitor the pollution load parameters of the water body under study. The correlation coefficients among different water quality parameters of ground water, polluted water of Ganda Nalla and Western Yamuna Canal such as pH, EC, TS, IDS, TSS, Na⁺, K⁺, Cl, PO^3-₄ were determined. The Pulp and Paper Mill, Haryana Distillery, Saraswati Sugar Mill of Yamunanagar and metal industries of Jagadhari are polluting the WYC. The water samples were collected from three sites and analysed for the above said parameters, In order to assess the effect of this waste water on agriculture, the irrigation indices were calculated" from observed physico-chemical parameters. These include TDS, Sodium percentage, Sodium absorption ratio, Soluble sodium percentage, Residual sodium carbonates, Mg/Ca ratio and Kelley's ratio.

1 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

016814   Bansal M;Diwan Singh (Civil Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra, Haryana, Email: push_kar5@yahoo.com) : Rice husk as a low cost biosorbent for the removal of heavy metals from water and waste water. J Envir Res Dev 2007, 1(3), 279-83.

Rice husk is a low value agriculture by-product abundantly available in India. In recent years, it has been widely investigated as a biosorbent for removal of heavy metals such as Au, Cd(II), Cr(VI), Cu(II), Ni(II), Pb(II), Zn(II) etc. from water and wastewater. An extensive list of previous and current literature on rice husk in removing heavy metals has been compiled to provide a summary of available information on rice husk and its potential as a low cost biosorbent.

1 table, 13 ref

016813   Bandela N N;Puniya P N (Environmental Science Dep, Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, Email: pushpendra punia@gmail.com) : Treatment of paint content in effluents of automobile industries. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 426-31.

Paint is one of the most important products. It is used for various purposes in automobile industries, toy industries, painting industries and building works etc. The exact composition of particular paint is often complex and proprietary. In general, however, most paints contain the material like binder (resin), solvents, pigments and additives. In automobile industries, paints are used in bulk quantity. Before painting phosphate coating is given for improving paint adhesion and to increase corrosion resistance. Due to porous coating Paint adhesion is improved and because it has thermal expansion properties intermediated between the metal and the paint. Zinc phosphate is also recommended for maximum corrosion resistance. The effluents, which are generated from the automobile industries, are creating a big problem to the environment. Environmental health hazards arise to the workers when they are exposed to the air, drinking water and food, which may get polluted due to spraying of the paints. Mostly alkyd paint are used for painting process. During this process large amount of water is used and get polluted. Attempts has made to make simple treatment of effluents generated from automobile industries. Calcium Hydroxide and Alum are chemicals used for the experiments. Alum along with polymer shows an effective treatment of effluents. Results obtained are encouraging and worth mentioning too.

4 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

016812   Bafna A;Pawar K;Dube B (Biochemistry Dep, Govt. Holkar Science College, Indore, Email: balaindore@yahoo.com) : Physico-chemical effect of auto-exhaust pollution on Cassia fistula leaves growing along agra-Bombay road (India). J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(3), 432-5.

The effect of automobile pollution on the physical and biochemical aspect of fistula leaves was studied. The leaf wash pHand pH of cell sap was found to be reduced. The photosynthetic pigments and the ascorbic acid content of the leaves facing air pollution also decreased. The harmful effect of auto-exhaust pollutants found decreased with the increase in the distance from the roadsides.

3 tables, 22 ref