013511   Krishna B M;Murthy U N;Manoj Kumar B;Lokesh K S;Savitha B (Civil Engineering Dep, UVCE, Bangalore Univ, JB Campus, Bangalore-560 056, Email: bmkrishna_71@yahoo.com) : Improvement of BOD₅/COD ratio INPRE-treated distillery waste water by electrochemical treatment method. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 90-100.

Electrochemical oxidation of low (BOD₅/COD) ratio post-methanation distillery wastewater was investigated. The effects of operating parameters like pH, electrolysis duration and current density on COD removal were studied. At a current density of 0.03 Ampere/cm² and at pH 3 the COD removal was found to be 72%. The BOD₅/COD ratio of pretreated distillery wastewater was 0.145 and increased to 0.686 for an optimum of 120 minutes electrolysis duration indicating improvement of biodegradability of wastewater. The TOC reduction is 8.77% at 180 minutes of electrolysis duration. The maximum anodic efficiency observed was 21.58 kg COD h^-1A^-1m² and the minimum energy consumption observed was 84.16 wh kg^-1 COD. The kinetic study reveals that reaction rate (k) decreases with increase in pH and increases with increase in current density.

013510   Koliopoulos T C;Koliopoulo M D G (Environmental Consultancy, Technological Educational Institute of Athens, Athens, Greece, Email: tkol@otenet.gr) : Biodegradation of iso-valeric acid in relation to other chemical indexes and spatial liner risk assessment at landfill topographies - mid auchencarroch experimental site. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(4), 2989-3000.

This paper analyses the effects of different waste management techniques and waste pretreatment on iso-valeric acid emissions and landfill mass biodegradation stages. The biodegradation of Mid Auchencarroch experimental landfill project is studied in 4 different cells. The variations of the examining experimental landfill chemical emissions and their spatial behaviour are presented and analyzed in order to take the right measures in time. The experimental Mid Auchencarroch's data confirm that leachate recirculation, waste pretreatment and co-disposal with inert material are sustainable, accelerating the waste biodegradation. An analysis is made for proper landfills' spatial monitoring and functional support measures so as to avoid any associated landfill emissions' risks and threats to public health.

8 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

013509   Khurshid S;Mathur R (School of Studies in Zoology, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Waste generated by health care units in Gwalior district, India. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 158-60.

In the work two large hospitals of Gwalior viz., J. A. Group of Hospitals and Cancer Hospital have been studied taking into consideration the various aspects of hospital wastes. The study was conducted only to reveal the per day waste generation in two hospitals. In the waste management processes, segregation and storage were not properly followed in these hospitals. However, collection and transportation activities to final disposal were practiced. The policy of quality control system in waste management needs to be improved.

3 tables, 3 ref

013508   Khare P K;Chaurasia J K (Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru P.G. College, , Banda, Uttar Pradesh) : Seasonal variation of phytoplankton in four stations of Vijay Sagar lake of Mahoba (U.P.). J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 123-31.

The present paper is aimed at evaluating phytoplankton indicators as water quality and pollution status of fresh water body, Vijay Sagar Lake. This paper reports 21 species, and 36 genera, among them 9 species belong to Chlorophyceae, 7 to Bacillariophyceae, 5 to Myxophyceae in which Chlorophyceae were dommant. Ulothrix, Pediastrum and Protococcus and many members of Cyanophyceae are indicators of meso - eutrophic status of the water bodies. The present observation shows that water body was highly polluted in summer and moderately polluted in monsoon. The dominant species were found to be Anabaena, Microcystis, Tetraspora, Pediastrum, Navicula, and Nitzschia. The algae that become prominent in addition to bloom forming species as eutrophication proceeds may be planktonic, floating periphytic as Spirogyra, Zygnema, as well as some Diatoms being dominant. According to these observations Vijay Sagar lake is in transition state between mesotrophic and eutrophic, so termed as meso-eutrophic.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

013507   Khanna D R;Ashraf J;Chauhan B;Bhutiani R; Matta G;Singh V (Zoology Dep, Gurukul Kangri Univ, Hardwar) : Water quality analysis of river panv dhoi in reference to its physicochemical parameters and heavy metals. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 159-69.

This paper deals with the analysis of different water parameters of River Panv Dhoi which flows through Saharanpur district. It is a streamfed river and a tributary of Hindon. The sample collection was usually completed during morning hrs. between 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The parameters like Temperature, Turbidity, Conductivity, Total Solids (TS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Free Carbon dioxide (CO₂), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Alkalinity, Total Hardness, Chloride (Cl-) and heavy metals like Lead, Zinc, Mercury and copper were analyzed.

1 illus, 10 tables, 42 ref

013506   Khan M A (Environmental Sciences Div, S-K Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, G.P.O. Box No. 726, Srinagar-190 001, Email: ma_khan16@yahoo.co.in) : Environmental contamination of Hokersar wetland waters in Kashmir himalayan valley, India. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(2), 157-62.

This paper investigates the environmental contamination of Himalayan wetland ecosystem (Hokersar, Kashmir) by analyzing the distribution and loading of bacterial population in waters. Seven locations representing heterogeneous spatial habitat zonation of the wetland were studied. Site-specific variability in bacterial load was markedly discernible at Doodhganga inlet and Zainakoot locations, with maximum values in the range of 242-276/100 mL against Soziath, an outlet, with minimum value of 157-159/100 mL. Considerable seasonal fluctuations were evident in bacterial densities, highest values were observed in summer and lowest in winter. Annual averages showed that dense aquatic vegetation zone harboured least number of bacteria (159/100 mL) suggesting increased die-off of the bacterial population. All the samples were found contaminated to grossly-contaminated. The nature of qualitative composition of bacterial species including prevalence of Escherichia coli and species of Yersinia, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Shigella indicate probable contamination of waters due to ingress of sewage and fecal matter posing health hazards.

3 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

013505   Khajuria M;Dutta S P S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu) : Bacteriological characteristics of raw water of the river Tawi near sitlee water treatment plant, Jammu. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 145-8.

Bacteriological analysis of raw water of the river Tawi, near Sitlee water treatment plant, has shown the seasonal presence of Klebsiella, Citrobacter, Escherichia and Pseudomonas. Total bacterial count (MPN) recorded summer (April, May), monsoon and post-monsoon (June- October) increase and winter (November, December, February) decrease. It varied between 92 and >180 during both the years of study. MPN index above 10 /100 ml. indicates that raw water is not suitable for drinking purposes and comes under the category of unsatisfactory. It needs proper treatment before supplied to the consumers.

1 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

013504   Kashyap S M (Analytical Instruments Div, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur-440 020, Email: sm_kashyap@neeri.res.in) : Recovery of PCBs by liquid-liquid extraction using different solvents and its identification by GC-MS. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(2A), 869-71.

The Highlights the extraction technique for PCBs from environmental water samples, which is based on the choice of suitable solvent and methodology for better recovery. The method adopted for extraction of PCBs is liquid-liquid extraction. In this technique water samples containing hydrophobic analyte like PCBs are subjected to organic solvents like dichloromethane (DCM), hexane, cyclohexane and the combination of DCM : hexane (1 : 1), DCM : diethyl ether (I : I). The efficiency of extraction process was monitored for these solvents and percentage recovery of PCBs was studied. It was confirmed that dichloromethane, hexane, DCM : hexane (1 : 1), cyclohexane, DCM : diethyl ether (85 : 15) showed the extraction efficiency of 69.8, 34.6, 24.8, 15.7 and 21.0% respectively of the PCB analytes from water samples. The extract was subjected to instrumental analysis by gas chromatograph mass spectrometer for its identification. Quantification was done after plotting the calibration curve.

3 illus, 9 ref

013503   Kamble N A;Nanaware S G (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: drknitinkumar@yahoo.in) : Cadmium sulphate induced toxicity effect of mortality of freshwater snail, Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck). Geobios 2009, 36(1), 21-4.

Cadmium sulphate when tested against the freshwater snail, Bellamys bengalensis showed mortality, which increased with increase in concentration (Cd) and duration of exposure. Mortality rate was observed by using 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 ppm of Cd for different time intervals. Mean LC₅₀ value was 1.04 ppm.

5 tables, 9 ref

013502   Kalaiselvi P;Mahimairaja S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Email: kalaiphd@gmail.com) : Effect of spentwash applications on organic carbon dynamics in soil. J Envir Res Dev 2010, 4(3), 742-9.

Distillery spentwash is used in agriculture as a source of plant nutrients and irrigation water. Being plant originated the spentwash contains all plant nutrients and organic matter. The effect of different levels and methods of spentwash application on organic carbon dynamics was examined through a field experiment. The field experiment was conducted using groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) as a test crop at Research and Development Cane Farm, The Salem Co-operative Sugar Mills Ltd., Mohanur, Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu (India). The different levels of spentwash was applied to the field in one time and continuous split doses of application. The spentwash with high BOD (12800 mg L^-1) and C (24000 mg L^-1) has enriched the soil with organic matter and thus significantly increased (from 8.0 to 13.4 g kg^-1) the soil organic C. The increase was more due to one time application initially (before sowing), whereas, at later stages of crop growth (pod formation and harvest), organic C was higher due to continuous application. With advancement of time both with and without crop, the soil organic C was found decreased due to organic matter decomposition and C loss, mainly as CO₂ from soil. Inspite of CO₂ loss and crop assimilation, the organic C was significantly greater with the continuous application of split doses of spentwash. The spentwash was found to enhance the mineralization of both spentwash-C and soil-C.

1 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

013501   Jayadev A;Salom Gnana Thanga V (Environmental Sciences Dep, Kerala Univ, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) : Seasonal changes in coliform contamination of potable ground water sources in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 181-5.

In order to verify the level of microbial contamination in potable well water sources of Thiruvananthapuram city and their suitability for drinking purpose, the present study was conducted. The study area i.e. Thiruvananthapuram Corporation with 81 wards was classified into different zones by combining nearby wards. Samples were collected from dug wells from each zone during summer and monsoon seasons of two consecutive years viz., 2006 and 2007. Samples were analysed for total coliforms and fecal coliforms. The samples which showed nil values for TC using MPN method were analysed by PCR. The number of coliforms, both total and fecal were much higher than the permissible limits in most cases. Most of the wells which had higher level of contamination were shallow, which could be the reason for ease of contamination. The hot spot of FC contamination was zone no. 4. The results throw light on the degree of microbial contamination in potable water sources, the seasonal changes as well as hot spots of contamination, which can be useful for further remedial and suitable precautionary measures to prevent outbreak of water borne diseases.

8 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

013500   Jayabalakrishnan R M;Mahimairaja S; Udayasoorian C (Environmental Science Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: jayabalphd@yahoo.com) : Vermiculite mono and mixed columns in treating raw textile and dye effluent. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 62-9.

Column studies were carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of treating raw textile and dye effluent through mono and mixed columns (different grades) of vermiculite. It was found that mono column, colour was removed to a maximum extend of 61.0% in the first pore volume in treatment T₁ (RVG₂) which was the highest. But incase of mixed-column T₂ (50% RVG₂ + 50% RVG₅) recorded the maximum color removal of 71.0% in the first pore volume upto 3rd pore volume there was a general decreasing trend of colour removal of 40% in all the columns. In case of removal of cations vermiculite column leaching units retained about 20 to 40% cations in the mono and mixed column experiments, which was evident from the decrease in the concentrations of these ions in the leachate of the first pore volume. The retention of colour and cation (Na, Ca and Mg) in general followed a common pattern for all the treatments either in mono (or) mixed columns, where in a maximum adsorption was noticed in the first pore volume and it followed a linear decreasing trend in second pore volume, but at the third pore volume, the leachate was with a meager differences with references to various pollutants when compared to that of the original pollutant load.

4 tables, 6 ref

013499   Jampanil J;Srisatit T (Interdisciplinary Program of Environmental Science, Chulalongkorn Univ, Bangkok, Thailand, Email: j_jirawan@hotmail.com) : Physical characteristic improvement of bentonite by pillaring method for organic compound removal. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 19-23.

The improvement of physical characteristic of bentonite to develop new adsorbent for organic compound removal by cation exchange properties of bentonite was investigated. Raw bentonites were pillared with tetraethyl ammonium chloride, TEA, equivalent to 0.75, 1.00, 1.25, 1.50, 1.75, and 2.00 times of bentonite CEC so that the pillared clay became more organophillic. The result showed that more surface area could be enhanced by pillaring method. After pillaring, bentonite's Langmuir surface and micropore areas increased 26.27% or 145.12 m^{2/g and 70.17% or 40.78 m2/g, respectively. Considering the 1-day and 2-day aging time for pillaring, it's found that BET, Langmuir surface areas and micropore area were not affected. Additionally, after replacing cation with TEA, CEC of bentonite was decreased from 67.5 meq/100 g to 37.3 meq/100 g with 44.7%. From this reason, it may imply that the pillared bentonite became higher organophilic or hydrophobic, which could be further applied for organic compound adsorption.}

3 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

013498   Jadhav R N;Jadhav Y D;Desale K S;Ingle S T; Attarde S B (School of Environmental and Earth Science, North Maharashtra Univ, Jalgaon, Maharashtra) : Effect of distillary spent wash on germination rate of wheat, chickpea and fenugreek. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 133-5.

Distillery spent wash is an effective organic liquid manure derived from distillery industries. A laboratory work was undertaken to assess the waste water quality parameters of treated distillery effluent and the effect of various concentrations viz., 0,25,50,75 and 100% on seed germination and germination value of three selected seeds i.e. wheat (Triticutn aestivum), chickpea (Cicer arietinum), and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum). The high value of TS (4605 mg/l), BOD (587.4 mg/l) and COD (2611.20 mg/l) indicated the high inorganic and organic load. Germination percentage decreased with increasing concentration of effluent in all the tested seeds, whereas the germination speed, germination value increased from control to 25% and 50% concentration and decreased from 50% to 75% and 100% effluent. To estimate the probable liquid fertilizer benefit, studies on subsequent dilutions is needed to corroborate the present study.

3 illus, 2 tables

013497   Imam S R;Singh K M (P.G. Dep of Chemistry, H.D. Jain College(V.K.S. Univ), Ara, Bihar) : Water quality of river Gangi at ara town. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 167-72.

The study deals with the physical and chemical parameter of water like pH, TDS, TSS, DO, BOD, COD, alkalinity, phosphate, total hardness, Ca and Mg hardness, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite etc. in four selected sites of river Gangi at Ara town (Bihar). The physico-chemical characteristics of river Gangi water sampled from selected site were analyzed in mg/L for period of April, May and June months in the year 2009 according to International Standard (IS) of drinking water. There was in increasing order all the parameters except DO in April to June months.

15 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

013496   Hoodaji M;Tahmourespour A;Amini H (Soil Science Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Khorasgan Branch, Email: M_Hoodaji@khuisf.ac.ir) : Copper and cobalt concentrations in soil and plants in an industrial region. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 24-33.

The input of heavy metals in soils through steel plant's production processes is one of the most important soil pollution sources. The aim of this study was to determining Cu and Co concentrations in soil and plants shoots around the Esfahan Steel Company. In this study, we separated 17 zones based on soil maps and marked 54 points for soil sampling. In each point were sampled at 0-5, 5-10, 10-20 and 20-40 cm depths and DTPA-extractable concentrations of Cu and Co were determined. Also 162 plant samples from shoots of 13 main plants species were collected and the concentrations of Cu and Co were determined. The results showed that, the maximum concentrations of Cu were 9.2, 7.4, 5.9 and 7.5 mg/kg.soil respectively in 0-5, 5-10, 10-20 and 20-40 cm layers. The maximum concentrations of Co were 2.4, 2, 1.8 and 2.3 mg/kg.soil respectively in 0-5, 5 -10, 10-20 and 20 -40 cm layers. Therefore the concentrations of Cu and Co in soil were less than the maximum permitted concentrations (MPC) of these elements in agricultural soils. The maximum concentrations of Cu in shoots of Triticum vulgare, Medicago sativa, Amygdalus scoparia and Oryza sativa were 21.8, 21.2, 21 and 20.3 mg/kg.dry. matter that were higher than the standard levels of Cu in plant dry matter. The maximum concentrations of Co in shoots of Medic ago sativa, Vitis vinifera, Euphorbia spp. and Tamarix spp. were 12.7, 11.3, 10.3 and 10.2 mg/kg. dry. matter that were extremely higher than the standard levels of Co in plant dry matter. Therefore high concentrations of Cu and Co in the studied plants may arise from atmospheric pollution.

3 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

013495   Gusain M P;Semalty B;Rana J S;Negi A;Singh L;Gusain O P (Zoology Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Freshwater Biology Unit, P.O. Box No. 60, Srinagar-Garhwal, Uttarakhand) : Riffles inhabiting benthic macroinvertebrate communities in a springfed tributary of river Alaknanda (Garhwal Himalaya). Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 171-8.

Bachchan Gad is a spring-fed tributary of River Alaknanda in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Benthic macroinvertebrates in the riffles of Bachchan Gad was investigated during March 2008 to February 2009 at four sampling sites between 590 m to 600 m above sea level. Preliminary observations revealed that riffle inhabiting benthic macroinvertebrates communities in the Bachchan Gad comprised of 36 insect genera belonging to 8 orders and 29 families along with I genus each of crustacean and annelida. Dominated by Ephemeropteran, Trichopteran and Coleopteran genera the density was highest (1300±142 Individual m^{-2) during winter at confluence, the downstream site, it was recorded lowest (80±15.2 Individual m-2) during monsoon at Pata, the headwater site.}

5 illus, 4 tables, 41 ref

013494   Gupta B;Gupta K;Garg H K;Niranjan G S (Botany Dep, D.G. (P.G.) College, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Environmental correlation coefficient in gladiolus (Gladiolus gandavensis) varieties. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(1), 67-72.

Vegetative and reproductive characters of Gladiolus (Gladiolus gandavensis) genotypes have been studied alongwith their qualitative and quantitative parameters. Variability appears in different genotypes. Variation may be due to environment or due to genotype or both. Environmental correlation cofficients were calculated and it was found that plant height showed positive correlation with length of spike, number of florets per spike, diameter of corm and weight of corm. Number of leaves per plant gave positive correlation with respect to width of leaf, length of spike and diameter of corm. Number of buds per spike have positive correlation with number of days to flower, number of corms per plant and weight of cormels per plant. Environmental correlation coefficient measured variation in two variables together and influence each other.

2 tables, 7 ref

013493   Gosavi V E;Tamilmani D (Hydrology Dep, IIT Roorkee, Uttrakhand, Email: vaibhavgosavi8@yahoo.co.in) : Remote sensing and GIS applications for artificial recharge of groundwater. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 276-82.

Groundwater is a treasured earth's resource, which constitutes approximately 98.7 per cent of all liquid freshwater on the earth. It is one of our most important natural resources and is crucial to mankind. Groundwater has intricate and varied interrelations with the different component of environment and hence its intensive and imprudent exploitation results in significant environmental problems. Poor knowledge about this resource, because of it hidden nature and its occurrence in complex subsurface formation, has been and still a big obstacle to the efficient management of this important resource. In spite of considerable improvement in our knowledge about groundwater dynamic at the dawn of the 21st century, much more still remains to be understood about groundwater in saturated as well as unsaturated subsurface formations. Advance and rapidly expanding technologies such as Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) holds a great promise to tackle the present challenges faced by hydrologist and hydro-geologist. So in present article a review has been done about Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information System (GIS) application for artificial recharge of groundwater.

1 illus, 3 ref

013492   Gandhewar S S;Vasudevan K;Zade S B (Fisheries Dep, Jankidevi Bajaj College of Science, Wardha) : Impact of fabric dyeing effluents on the physical parameters of Wunna river in Wardha district of Maharashtra. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 113-6.

The physical parameters like temperature, odor, electrical conductivity, turbidity and pH of Wunna River in Maharashtra (India) at three different stations (upstream region- S₁, effluent mixed regioti-S₂ and 700 m away from effluent mixed region-S₃) were studied during the pre, mid and post-monsoon season. Marginal variations were recorded in temperature and turbidity while rigorous effect of effluent discharge on odor, electrical conductivity and pH was observed at the effluent mixed region as compared to the other stations. The flow of water in the river in different seasons was found to be an important factor responsible for variable impact of pollution. The data analysis confirms a great extent of pollution of the riverine eco-system at the site of release of textile industry effluents.

6 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

013491   Gandhewar S S;Vasudevan K;Zade S B (Fisheries Dep, Jankidevi Bajaj College of Science, Wardha) : Effect of textile effluent on chemical characteristics of Wunna river of Wardha district (M.S.). Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 99-102.

Describes the chemical characteristics of Wunna River at Hinganghat, Wardha district of Maharashtra State Various chemical characteristics such as BOD, COD, total alkalinity, total hardness, total dissolved solids, chloride, sodium, nitrate, chromium and iron were studied at 3 different station of Wunna River viz. upstream region (S₁, effluent mixed region (S₂) and 700 m away from effluent mixed region (S₃). Marginal variations in chemical characteristics were noticed at station 1 and 3. However, higher values were recorded at station 2 i.e. effluent mixed region. Data analysis indicates heavy pollution of eco system of the river at the site of release of textile industry waste water i.e. S₂.

2 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

013490   Gaikwad P G;Khare D (Water Resources Development and Management Dep, , Roorkee, Email: pravingikwad11star@gmail.com) : FE-SEM EDAX studies on fly ash particles. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 55-61.

Over 75% of the total installed power generation in India is coal based. India as well as all other countries in the world are facing big challenge of fly ash disposal in environmentally safe manner. Utilisation of fly ash is the one way to solve this problem. Presently as per the figures of Ministry of Environment and Forest Government of India, 30% of ash is being used in fillings, embankments, construction, blocks and tiles etc. Balanced ash is disposed in the form of slurry in ash pond/lagoon. When ash water interaction is responsible for leaching of metals, which is a concern for possible soil and groundwater contamination. Morphology can affect physical and chemical properties of ash, which in turn relate to environmental and technological aspects of fly ash disposal and utilization. Morphological studies were carried out with the help of Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM).Apart from solid spherical particles, cenosphere and plerosphere were identified. With the help of Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDAX) analysis trace elements were identified and their health aspects were discussed.

11 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

013489   Fotedar A;Raina A K (Environmental Science Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu) : Physico-chemical status of soil between lowang to Gatti, sewa catchment, Kathua district, J&K. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 63-75.

Four stations were selected in Sewa river catchment, district Kathua, J&K for soil studies for 2 years on monthly basis. ecologically and from pH studies have revealed acidic character of soils. The soils are mostly clay-loam in texture. Most of its parts is barren and soil moisture is accounted from persistent snow cum on high peaks and frequent rain for 8 months during the year. Moisture ranges between 11 8.73% to 12.90% in all profiles and results in high ingress of water. The loss of nutrition among SiO₂. Al₂O, TiO₂, Fe₂O₃, CaO, MgO, Na₂O and K₂O and MnO by chemical analysis, revealed thai TiO₂, Fe₂O₃, Na and K get depleted from composite samples and as such need compensation. Al₂O₃ and MnO get added to the composite soils, because of excessive erosion usually common most of the Himalayan catchments. SiO₂, CaO and MgO do not show any impoverishment in composite samples and remain almost same in both in-situ and composite samples. Organic carbon too. in all the four profiles indicates uniform distribution. The present studies shows soil of catchment area of River Sewa moderately to highly degraded and prone to soil erosion, landslides and rock falls-leading ultimately to loss of nutrients essential for maintaining the fertility of the soil. The catchment areas should properly be forested, planted with long rooted grass and vetiver grass to control erosion. Various land management practices, such as mixed cropping, intercropping, strip cropping. rotational cropping, mulching, application of organic manures will go a long way to reduce soil and conserve sub-soil moisture effectively.

1 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

013488   Davamani V;Doraisamy P (Environmental Science Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Influence of organic manures on microbial population of Amaranthus and Brassica species grown with magnesite mine spoil. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 221-2.

Study was Concluded to evaluate the microbial dynamics of magnesite mine spoil. A pot culture experiment was laid out in the Department of Environmental Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Results revealed that The bacterial, fungal and actinomycetes population were the highest in Amaranthus sp. grown in magnesite mine spoil with FYM, vermicompost and 100% NPK (21.2 x 10^{6,12.4 x 103 and 6.5 x 102 CFU g-1, respectively). The increased and decreased microbial population was probably due to the availability of nutrient status in the spoil by the addition of organic amendments.}

1 table, 9 ref

013487   Davamani V;Doraisamy P (Environmental Science Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Effect of mine spoils on soil and plant enzyme activity of rhizosphere soil. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 139-41.

Pot culture experiment was conducted in the Department of Environmental Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to evaluate the role of enzyme activities in metal accumulation in magnesite and coal mine spoils. The activities of soil enzymes like phosphatase, dehydrogenase, amylase, plant peroxidases and plant catalases considerably increased in red soil compared to magnesite and coal mine spoils. The soil and plant enzyme activities were found to be higher in Amaranthus sp. grown in red soil (T1) compared to mine spoils. The activities of enzymes in soil and plant increased over time and 45th day sample recorded the highest activity of enzyme, after which it got reduced, The results indicated that enzyme activities of mine spoils decreased in the rhizosphere soil due to the low availability of nutrients in mine spoils compared to red soil.

2 tables, 11 ref

013486   Das S;Gupta A (Life Science Dep, Assam Univ, Silchar, Email: das_aus@rediffmail.com) : Acute toxicity studies on Indian flying barb, Esomus donricus (Hamilton-Buchanan), in relation to exposure of heavy metals, cadmium and copper. J Envir Res Dev 2010, 4(3), 705-12.

Aquatic organisms are good indicators of environmental pollution because they concentrate pollutants in their tissues directly from water and sediments, and through them, it is also possible to assess the bioaccumulation of pollutants in the food chain. Only biological monitoring can tell us what toxic materials are doing to organisms. The susceptibility of fish to a particular xenobiotic is a very important factor for lethal concentration, LC50 values (concentration that kills 50% of test population). The fish that is highly susceptible to toxicity of one chemical may be less or non-susceptible to the toxicity of another at same concentration of that chemical. The purpose of acute toxicity test is to assess various abnormalities caused due to administration of a chemical to animals and to determine the order of lethality of the chemical. In aquatic toxicology, acute lethal toxicity tests with fish or invertebrates are usually intended to assess the numerical value of toxicity, to compare potencies of toxicants and to assess the effects of environmental variables on toxicity. Fishes are sensitive to external perturbations in aquatic medium. Therefore, it has become imperative to determine whether a potential toxicant is harmful to fish and if so, to find out the relationship between toxicant concentration and its effects on fish. Esomus danricus (Hamilton-Buchanan) is endemic to North India and found in shallow water bodies adjoining paddy and tea cultivation. In the present study, behavioural changes and acute toxicities for two heavy metals Cadmium and Copper were determined. Acute toxicity (LC50) on E. danricus for 24, 48, 72 and 96hrs for Cd were 19254 μg/l, 12773.6 μg/l, 8432 μg/l and 6363 μg/l respectively. The LC50 values for 24, 48, 72 and 96hrs for Cu were and 1.02 μg/l, 0.25 μg/l, 0.07 μg/l and 0.01 μg/l respectively. Copper showed toxic effects at much lower dose than Cadmium. Several behavioural manifestations were also noted for exposure durations.

2 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

013485   Chavan B L (Env. Science Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad) : Environmental ethics: an essence for environmental protection. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 37-41.

With the rapid and unplanned industrialization the human society is facing different environmental problems due to variety of destructing activities. There is an urgent need to stop further degradation of nature or at least keep it under control. We have to decide and choose the right code of conduct which ealls the human conscience and environmental ethics. Environmental ethics are our beliefs about our social, moral and scientific behavior towards the nature concerning what is right or what is wrong. There are several approaches to environmental ethics. Present paper deals with certain prineiples which are recognized as environmental ethics. Some ethical justifications are discussed with reference to moral sense, spiritual thinking and practical utility on the grounds of present need and the future of our next generation.

9 ref

013484   Chauhan A;Tewari N;Matta G (Zoology and Environmental Sciences Dep, Gurukula Kangri Univ, Haridwar, Uttarakhand) : Water quality of natural springs in Garhwal himalayas. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 153-6.

Instead of having plenty of water in the Garhwal Himalayas in the form of Glaciers and snow fed rivers, a large population is facing the problem of easy availability of freshwater. Natural springs This paper deals with the study of natural water springs in Garhwal region. The parameters studied were alkalinity, acidity. DO, BOD, free CO₂, nitrate, H₂S, chlorides, hardness, inorganic phosphates, temperature. pH and coliform number. The study elucidates that the water quality of selected natural water springs is suitable for drinking purpose.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

013483   Chatterjee R;Sengupta S;Ghosh P B;Saha T (NO, Institute of Environmental Studies and Wet Land Management, B 4. LA Block, Sector- 3, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700 093, Email: tamoghna-chatterjee@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of some physiological parameters and heavy metal contents in the leaves of mango and litchi in a fly ash affected area. Indian Agric 2009, 53(1-2), 33-8.

A study was conducted in different fly ash affected areas of Farakka of Murshidabad district, West Bengal for assessment of some physiological parameters (chlorophyll - total, chlorophyll A and chlorophyll B, transpiration rate and leaf phenol concentration and heavy metal (Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni and Fe) contents in the leaves of two commercial fruit crops - mango and litchi. Total chlorophyll, chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B and phenol contents of affected leaves exhibited usually lower value while heavy metal concentration in the affected leaves showed much more higher value, in general, compared to unaffected leaves of mango and litchi. The results of the investigation are of concern about the sustainability and productivity of the existing fruit crops in the fly ash affected area.

5 tables, 8 ref

013482   Burak S;Unlu S;Gazioglu C (Marine Environment Dep, Institute of Marine Science and Management, Istanbul Univ, 34116 Istanbul, Turkey, Email: sburak@gmail.com) : Environmental stress created by chemical pollution in the Marmara sea (Turkey). Asian J Chem 2009, 21(4), 3166-74.

The ecological consequences of chemical pollution experienced as evidence of significant environmental stress in the Marmara sea which is a semi-enclosed internal basin with a stratified structure. The stratification is due to the Mediterranean sea originated lower layer current and Black sea originated upper layer current that hinders the water circulation. Rapid urbanization on the coastal zone of the Marmara sea has attracted population since the 1970's. This has been one of the main reasons for the pollution that has affected primarily the estuaries and bays of the Marmara sea and has ultimately spread along the shoreline and continental shelf that constitutes 50% of its total area. The Marmara sea coastal zone is at risk of severe industrial and domestic pollution where hot-spots comprise Izrnit, Gemlik, Bandirma bays and Greater Istanbul Metropolitan area. Chemical pollution accumulated in the bays, in particular, has created significant ecological damage resulting in the decrease or extinction of marine species. In this paper, the oceanographic features of the receiving media, the sources of industrial and domestic pollution based on field data and monitoring are presented. Previous studies and the present one carried out so far reveal that a good understanding of the oceanographic and ecological processes is essential for the Marmara sea as a whole. In the light of the findings, the means and tools for an integrated wastewater management plan in the Marmara region are discussed.

3 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

013481   Bhuvaneshwari S;Sabarunisha Begum S; Senthilrani S;Karthie P (NO, Periyar Maniammai Univ, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu, Email: karthic_me@yahoo.co.in) : Treatment of distillery effluent using biomembrane techniques. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 106-15.

Industrial effluent contains chemicals and heavy metals that are harmful to human health and ecosystem. Distillery industry generates 15 liter (L) of spent wash for 1 liter of alcohol produced and the volume of effluent would be 60 to 100 liters per liter of alcohol. Recent developments in biotechnology have given positive indication in biomembrane separation, where biomembrane in their native or modified states may be used as alternative to conventional separations. The present study investigates the use of fungal biomass as a Biomembrane for effluent treatment. The distillery effluent contains the metal ions such as Zinc, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Lead, and Melanoidin pigment. Biomembrane (chitosan) prepared by deacetylation of chitin (cell wall of Aspergillus niger) act as biodegradable, non toxic polymer to recover heavy metals, decolorize, and deodorize the distillery effluent. A. niger as dry powder, liquid culture, mixed culture and chemically modified was mixed with effluent at various ratios and agitated at different speeds to carry out the extraction studies. Chemically modified Biomembrane was found to enhance the process. The percentage recovery was high in chemically modified biomembrane (Fe-82.88%) and non modified biomembrane (Fe-82.37%) compared to conventional liquid membrane (Fe -25.7%).

15 ref

013480   Bansal M L;Sharma V R;Jaspal Singh (College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: mlbnsl2001@yahoo.co.in) : Bending moment and shear force response at the botton of circular steel tall silo in wind environment. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(3), 1116-22.

Failures of wind engineering in toe past reveals that even strict compliance to conventional design methods, including accepted codes and standards, was not sufficient to prevent failures. No wind loading standard or code, can claim to cover completely wind loading. Wind forces are responsible for huge destruction in the world. The present research was on the study of circular steel silo subjected to rigorous wind loading and its effects on the anchorage requirements of tall silos. For the analysis of such a situation, there were few techniques available namely, finite element method, structural matrix analysis. The conventional methods of analysis gives more conservative results and hence gives penalty to the clients. This paper reports the comparison of results by various analysis of tall silos for additional bending moment and shear force in wind environment The maximum bending moment values (Nm E+06) for silos with H/D ratio of 7.5 in static, quasi-static (IS code), quasi-static (AS code), dynamic and random analysis techniques were 39.0, 68.3, 18S.O, 40.2 and 63.1 respectively. The maximum shear force values (N E+05) for silos with H/D ratio of 7.5 in static analysis, quasi-static (IS code), quasi-static (AS code), dynamic and random analysis techniques were 16.1, 28.1, 76.3, 16.6 and 26.0 respectively. The present analysis is on the basis of wind speed data around Delhi, but the model can be used for any wind speed and location with minor changes.

3 tables, 8 ref

013479   Bala Subramanyam V V;Manjunath B;Pullanna K; Amarnath Reddy Y;Harold Philip G;Indira P (Zoology Dep, Respiratory Research Unit, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh) : Occupational asthma in labourers employed at cement industries in Tadiparti mandal of Anantapur district Andhra Pradesh, India. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 116-22.

Investigation has been made on the occupational asthma in labourers of cement industries in Tadipatri Mandal of Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Clinical data were obtained by conducting survey among 9258 long term exposed (8 to 11 years) labourers. The major respiratory symptoms prevalent were wheezing (17.75%), asthma (16.30%), dysponea (14.07%), and cough (productive and non productive cough) (12.63%). Asthma and dysponea were identified as major symptoms in labourers working at cranes and packing. Labourers working in kiln, raw mill and maintenance were reported with fewer symptoms than the labourers in cranes and packing. The prevalence of developing asthma (69%) was more in labourers at cranes and packing than labourers working in above said work satiations. Current smokers of cement industry were at higher risk of developing chronic bronchitis and wheeze. Chronic cough was common symptom in all the labourers and especially in laborers working at cranes and packing were at higher risk for developing productive cough and frequent attack of dysponea were more and incidence of respiratory symptoms was also higher in them after adjusting for age and smoking habit. Comparative study of blood samples between the exposed and control reveled significant variation with reference to differential leukocyte count, in particular eosinophils count, in loaders and packers, a sharp rise of eosinophils was noticed. Eosinophils in hyper responsive subjects (asthmatics) significantly increased the risk to develop on or more respiratory symptoms.

6 tables, 34 ref

013478   Bajpai S;Jung G;Dey A (Leaher Technology Dep, National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, Email: bajpais@nitj.ac.in) : Batch studies on chromium removal from tannery effluent using cationic exchange resin. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 77-82.

Basic chromium sulphate (BCS) salts are widely used as tanning material in tanneries for decades. This trivalent salt is the most preferred tanning material due to its low cost, easy availability and high affinity to form cross-linkages with skin protein giving high hydrothermal stability. However, Cr is a toxic heavy metal and it's disposal in environment poses serious ecological threats. In India, the safe limit of Cr (III) concentration in wastewater stream (to be disposed in the river body) should be below 4 ppm and for hexavalent Cr it is 0.1 ppm. It is therefore important to not only recover/reuse Cr from waste stream prior to disposal for economic reasons but also to conform to the stringent laws. Separation of Cr can be done by many ways such as conventional precipitation and redissolution method, chemical and bio adsorption, membrane filtration, ion exchange process, etc. In the present study we have studied the removal of Cr from weakly cationic exchange resin: Amberlite IR 120H. All the experiments are performed on synthetic solutions made from industrial grade BCS powder. The effect of the amount of resin, the concentration of the Cr in the solution and the pH on the removal are analyzed and studied. Adsorption isotherms followed by the resin is determined. It is found that the removal is very good at low concentration and Amberlite IR 120 H is able to remove 99% of the Cr present in the 50 ppm of the synthetic solution under optimized conditions.

3 illus, 9 ref

013477   Bag B C;Kaushik M P (Process Technology Development Div, Defence Research and Development, Establishment, Ministry of Defence, Govt of India, Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: b_bag@rediffmail.com) : Removal of organic pollutants from waste water relased from CC2 plant by a combo-treatment of advance oxidation and biodegradation. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 147-55.

Advanced oxidation and biological degradation are important treatment methods used for complete mineralization of organic pollutants present in the wastewater. Manufacturing plant of N,N'-Dichlorobis (2,4,6-trichlorophenyl) urea (CC2) produces wastewater containing pyridine, acetic acid, diphenyl urea etc. These pollutants must be treated before discharging into the environment. In our present investigation, our basic aim was to investigate the effectiveness of a combination of advanced oxidation processes (AOP) and batch aerobic biological degradation for the treatment of wastewater discharged from the CC2 plant. The Fenton's reagent was found to be suitable for removal of COD from the wastewater but only 67% COD removal was obtained. Experimental study in a batch aerobic biological reactor using enriched bacterial culture indicated that it is not able to destroy and remove the pollutants completely. Hence a combination of advanced oxidation followed by aerobic biological degradation was tried for complete removal of pollutants. It was observed that the combo-system of advanced oxidation and biological treatment was able to mineralize the pollutants completely. 98% COD removal was achieved with in 30 hrs by the combined treatment of AOP and biological treatment.

5 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

013476   Abhilash R;Prakasam V R (Environmental Sciences Dep, Kerala Univ, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581) : Changes in aminotransferase activity due to thiodan intoxication in Oreochromis mossambicus. Geobios 2009, 36(1), 53-6.

An increase in activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was observed in kidney and liver of the fish, Oreochmmis mossambicus exposed to thiodan (Endosulfan 35% E.C) for varying concentrations and periods. The most significant increase in activity was recorded for the highest sublethal dose (1/10 LC₅₀ ) on the 30th day of exposure. Liver and kidney showed the highest AST and ALT activity, respectively.

2 tables, 15 ref

013475   Abdoli M A;Azimi A A;Omrani G A;Allahdadi I; Roshani M R (Environmental Engineering Dep, Tehran Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: mrroshani@yahoo.com) : Vermicomposting of seqage sludge: multiple effects of bulking materials and dry solids content on the growth and reproduction of the Earthworm Eisenia foetida (A pilot scale study). Asian J Chem 2009, 21(4), 3227-35.

The multiple effects of residual bulking agents type (paper, saw dust, straw) in mixtures with activated sludge and dry solids content (D.S., 10, 15 and 20%) in 10 treatments on growth and reproduction of Eisenia foetida was studied in pilot scale experiments with batches of 50 earthworms for 10 weeks period. The maximum weight achieved was attained in the mixture of sludge with saw dust, dry solid 20% (772 ± 47 mg d₁) and the highest growth rate was attained in the mixture of sludge with paper, dry solid 15% (13.5 ± 1.41 mg d_-1). The highest reproduction rate was observed in the mixture of sludge with paper, dry solid 15% (2.5 ± 0.12 cocoon earthworm^-1 week_-1) compared to the lowest in the control with activated sludge alone (0.09 ± 0.02 cocoon earthworm^-1 week^-1).

4 illus, 8 tables, 16 ref

012446   Yadav B;Paul A V N (Entomology Div, I.A.R.I., New Delhi-110 012, Email: to_babita@yahoo.com) : Kairomonal effect of Corcyra cephalonica scale dust formulation on searching ability of Trichogramma exiguum. Ann Pl Prot Sci 2009, 17(2), 459-60.

^ssc1 table, 2 ref

012445   Wade P N;Bhosle A B (Environmental Sciences Dep, University of Pune, Pune-411 007, Email: pnwavde@gmail.com) : Groundwater quality assessment at Malegaon region of Nanded in Maharashtra (India). J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 57-60.

Importance of groundwater in meeting the growing demand from agriculture, industry and domestic sectors cannot be overemphasised. At one time, its purity and availability were taken for granted. Now contamination and availablity are serious issues. In India, most of the rural people still live in absolute poverty and often lack access to clean drinking water and basic sanitation. About 85% of rural population in India is selely depended on groundwater, which is depleting at a faster rate. Considering this fact, to asess the groundwater quality at Malegaon region of Nanded district, Maharashtra (India), five locations have been investigated for various physiochemical parameters. Samples were collected once in a month during June 2004 to May 2005. The studies have shown that the quality of the water has not been deteriorated. Temperature and EC were observed maximum in summer and minimum in monsoon season. pH of the water samples were observed to vary between 6.4 to 8.1. Total dissolved solids were found in the range of 244 to 475 mg/L. Total hardness was observed at varied concentrations 197 to 483 mg/L. Dissolved oxygen was observed in between 2.12 to 4.92 mg/L. The fluoride was found to be within permissible limit, average value of 0.36 mg/L. The chloride concentration was observed between 64 to 215 mg/L. The concentrations of sulfate and nitrate were observed maximum in monsoon and minimum in summer. It is probably due to the percolation of nitrogenous wastes. The entire investigations related to assessment of various parameters are discussed.

4 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

012444   Velmurugan B;Arathy E C;Hemalatha R;Jerry Elsa P;Alwar Ramanujam R (Environmental Technology Dep, Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR), Chennai-600 020, Email: ra_ramanujam@yahoo.com) : Anaerobic co-digestion of fruit and vegetable wastes and primary sewage sludge. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 19-22.

Anaerobic co-digestion of fruit and vegetable wastes (FVW) and primary sewage sludge was carried out in a fed-batch reactor having a volume of 21 under ambient temperature conditions. Three different proportions (25:75, 50:50 and 75:25) in terms of VS) of fruit and vegetable wastes and primary sewage sludge were studied for an organic loading rate (OLR) of 1.0 g VS/1.d and with a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 25 days. The reactor with 75% FVW and 25% sewage sludge (in terms of VS) showed better performance in terms of VS reduction and biogas yield when compared to other two proportions.

2 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

012443   Vediya S D;Shrivastava A K (Biology Dep, Sir P.T. Science College, Modasa-383 315, Email: drsanjuvediya@rediffmail.com) : Microbiological assessment of Sabarmati river water and riverian sediments collected from Gandhinagar to Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 101-4.

Clean water to drink, pure air to breath and natural soil to live are the universal demands of man as their birthright. With the passage of the time human beings are deprived of this right. Population explosion, industrialization, urbanization, intensive agriculture and many other activities of humans are polluting atmosphere in such a way that if the present trend continues, the earth will be rendered unstable - for living of the human beings in the near future. Flowing water of Sabarmati river in certain areas received thousands of people a year who swim, sunbath, surf and practice other leisure activities. Major efforts to improve the microbiological quality of bathing waters are being made in many countries. Regulations regarding water quality had led to improvement in the microbiological quality of waters and to a reduction in the incidence of waterborne diseases related to recreational water contact. Water samples were analysed for MPN total coliform, MPN faecal coliform, Gram positive, Gram negative and total number of heterotrophic plate count for three seasons of the year 2005-2006 while sediments samples were analysed for Gram positive, Gram negative and total number of heterotrophic plate count for three seasons of the year 2005-2006. The results values were higher than the desirable limits of BIS but within the permissible limits. Vadaj and Wasna barrage are more polluted localities due to effluents and city sewage.

5 tables, 23 ref

012442   Tripathy D P (Mining Engineering Dep, NIT, Rourkela-769 008, Email: debi_tripathy@yahoo.co.in) : Sustainable waste management in mining industry. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 205-12.

Discusses the existing status of waste generation, its characteristics and the disposal methods in mines. It also discusses the environmental impacts associated with waste disposal practices and best practices for waste disposal and management. It also emphasizes that consistent efforts must be made to minimize waste generation, prevent wastes becoming hazardous, alternative use of wastes alternatively and to dispose waste systematically. Disposal of mining wastes demands due attention in planning and execution in order to achieve environmentally acceptable disposal practice so that environmental problems can be eliminated.

7 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

012441   Tripathi A;Dwivedi A K;Mahima (Pollution Ecology Research Lab, Botany Dep, Hindu College, Moradabad-244 001, Email: anamikambd@rediffmail.com) : Airborne Cu and Zn at some urban sites in Pital Nagri (Moradabad), India. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 53-6.

Airborne concentrations of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in suspended particulate matter (SPM) have been measured at three urban sites in Pital Nagri (brass city) of India over a period of one year, i.e. August 2006 to July 2007. Analysis of samples was carried out by the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. A comparison was made between the sites and concluded that the maximum concentrations of SPM (762 μgm^{-3), Cu (56.01 μgm-3) and Zn (72.15 μgm-3) were found at industrial site and minimum at residential (200 μgm-3, 2.10 μgm-3 and 1.65 μgm-3) site respectively. A seasonal variation in concentrations was also observed. An attempt has been made to identify the various sources responsible for the high level of toxicity and it has been concluded that brass industries are mainly responsible for the enhanced concentration of these two metals.}

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

012440   Tandon S;Inarkar M;Rakesh Kumar (Mumbai Zonal Lab, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI, CSIR), 89/B, Dr. A.B. Road, Worli, Mumbai-400 018) : Wetland treatment (HSSP) of wastewater from a milk-processing unit using Bambusa vulgaris, Typha latifolia and Cyperus rotundus. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 23-6.

Studies were conducted in soil-less horizontal sub-surface flow wetland (HSSF) embedded with graded gravels using Golden bamboo, Bambusa vulgaris (a non-wetland species), Typha latifolia and Cyperus rotundus (wetland species) for the treatment of wastewater from a milk processing unit. The wastewater was treated with a dilution ratio of 3:1. Removal efficiencies of BOD and COD were studied at one, two and three days hydraulic retention time (HRT). At one day HRT, the removal efficiency (%) of these parameters was lower in comparison to when the wastewater was subjected to two and three days HRT. The increase in removal efficiency with increase in HRT was marginal when it was increased from 2 days to 3 days. The percentage removal of COD and BOD at two days retention time followed the order; Golden bamboo (93, 88) > Cyperus rotundus (91, 90) > Typha latifolia (85, 87).

2 illus, 1 table 12 ref

012439   Sundari A (Professor of Agronomy, Faulty of Agriculture, Annamalai Univ, Tamil Nadu, Email: sundari1911@yahoo.co.in) : Utilization and recycling of farm, industrial and urban solid wastes as eco- friendly approach for augmenting yield maximization in cauvery delta region. Bull agric Sci 2009, 7(2), 123-5.

Field experiment was conducted at Annamalai University Experimental Farm, Annamalai nagar during February, 2009 to investigate the utilization and recycling of farm, industrial and urban solid wastes as eco-friendly approach for augmenting yield maximization in rice in Cauvery delta region. The result revealed that all the treatment exerted significant influence on yield and yield parameter. The sewage farm wastes @ 20 t ha-₁ + 75% recommended dose of fertilizer recorded the highest grain and straw yield which was on a par with recommended dose of fertilizer (100%). The lowest yield was observed in the control plot.

1 tables, 2 ref

012438   Sudhakaran K (Research & Development Centre, Rajshree Sugars and Chemicals Limited, Theni District, Tamil Nadu-625 562, Email: sudhakarrscl@yahoo.com) : Standardisation of pressmud windrows for effective utilization of distillery effluent. Bull agric Sci 2009, 7(2), 103-8.

Distillery effluent, a rich source of organics and plant nutrients could be utilized properly if the interaction of colloidal pressmud with suspended constituents of the effluent is best understood. To redeem this, an attempt was made in the study to standardize the size of the pressmud pile for effective utilization of distillery spent wash. To study the impact of size of the windrow, five pressmud windrows were established with different quantities of pressmud viz., 1 Ton/meter, 2 Ton/meter, 2.5 Ton/meter, 3 Ton/meter, 3.5 Ton/meter. The pressmud windrows were formed in a triangular shape and moisture in the windrows was maintained between 50 to 60%. Microbial compost starter culture applied over the windrows. Using the machine - Aerotiller, has turned the pressmud windrows. Spent wash was applied over the turned windrows after reshaped the windrows with front-end loader. Aerotilling and application of spent wash on the windrows were carried out 4 times per week. The maximum consumption of spent wash was observed in the windrow having 1 Ton pressmud/meter (5.2 m3/Ton of pressmud) due to high rate of evaporation, microbial activity and composting reaction. This was followed by the windrow having 2 Ton pressmud/meter (3.58m^{3/Ton of pressmud). Rate of consumption of spent wash was reduced in the 1 Ton windrow after 7th week due to drastic reduction in organic carbon content. Considering the various factors likes quality of compost (C: N ratio) and total consumption of spent wash the 2 Ton pressmud windrow was found ideal for effective utilization of spent wash during composting.}

3 tables, 6 ref

012437   Singh N;Kayal N;Gupta P;Agrawal A K (Chemical Metrology Section, National Physical Lab (CSIR), Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi-110 012, Email: naharsingh@mail.nplindia.ernet.in ) : Monitoring the trace concentration in rice by flame atomic absorption spectrometer and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 33-6.

Objective of this study was to monitor the concentration of trace metals in rice. Eight different commercial rice samples were collected from retail market and among these samples Fe, Cd, Cr and Zn metal concentrations were determined by using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (FAAS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrophotometer (ICP-AES). The powdered rice samples were digested by wet chemical method. The analytical results obtained by both the instruments were found comparable. The accuracy of the method has been confirmed by analysing Certified Reference Material CRM No. 10-b of National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES). The concentrations of Fe, Cd, Cr and Zn in different brands were found in the range of 1.4±1.1 to 57.7±2.5 mg/kg, 0.08±0.03 to 0.39± mg/kg, 0.16±0.03 to 0.58± mg/kg and 7.3±0.3 to 18.6±0.5 mg/kg respectively. The standard deviation of the measurements has been calculated for Fe, Cd, Cr and Zn in six replicates of each sample and was found to be less than ±3% by the method proposed.

4 tables, 20 ref

012436   Singh B;Singh K S;Amerendra Kumar;Lalesh Kumar (P.G. Dep of Environmental Sciences, A.N. College, Patna) : Drinking water quality in Kachheriadih and Muslimtola villages of Nawadah district of Bihar State. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 253-4.

Investigation reports physico-chemical analysis of water samples from hand pumps of two villages to evaluate quality of dringing water. All water samples contained fluoride between 2.2 and 5.9 ppm, which was much higher than the maximum permissible limit of 1.5 ppm. More than 60% population of these villages was suffering from skeletal and dental fluorosis.

1 table, 2 ref

012435   Selvan S;Nehru Kumar V (NO, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, Coimbatore-641 001) : Strategies for effluent reduction at source and on-floor management for reuse, in cabinet dyeing units for yarn dyeing. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 227-9.

The requirement of water in a typical cabinet dyeing system for yarn dyeing is assessed at 140.00 to 165.00 L/kg. The segregation of waste stream into lean wash, spent wash and spent dyebath is found to reduce the effluent from 165 to 105 L/kg and will help the industry to reclaim water from the lean wash effluent by using on-floor management systems having Media and Cartridge Filters. This practice, if incorporated for yarn dying operations, will reduce the required water from 165 L/kg to 105 L/kg in cabinet systems and will reduce the hydraulic loading on the Effluent Treatment Plants.

3 tables, 6 ref

012434   Saritha V;Avasan Maruthi Y;Mukkanti K;Uma Maheswari M (Environmental Studies Dep, GITAM Institute of Science, GITAM Univ, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: saritha_environ@yahoo.com) : Impact of paper mill effluents on physico-chemical characteristics of soil. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 87-90.

Impact of paper and pulp mill effluents on soil was assessed for physico-chemical and biological properties in the present study. Discharge of paper and pulp effluents onto the soil caused change in physico - chemical and biological properties of soil. The analysis of water samples revealed that continuous use of the effluent has increased the pH, EC and sodium content of the soil. The soil pH ranged from 6.5 to 9.0 and sodium 36.6 to 427.5 mg/kg. Thus, it may be concluded that the continuous use of effluents from paper and pulp without monitoring will deteriorate the soil health. Water samples were analyzed for Color, pH, EC, dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, BOD and COD. The results indicate that the effluents were highly polluted and not fit for any use. The untreated effluent was not suitable for irrigation purposes as it is characterized by high values of pH (7.32), EC (2.44mMhos/cm), BOD (1650mg/L), COD (2140mg/L) and sodium (1234 mg/L). High content of sodium in the effluent will reduce the infiltration rate of soil and create the problem of soil sickness.

5 tables, 14 ref