012433   Sarala Thambavani D;Sendur Kumaran S; Rajeswari G (Chemistry Dep, Sri Meenakshi Government College for Women, Madurai-625 002, Email: sarala_dr@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of plants for their tolerance to air pollution in industrial area - a case study in Karaikudi region, Tamil Nadu, South India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2009, 3(2), 54-8.

Evaluation of Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) values derived from the biochemical parameters such as leaf extract pH, total chlorophyll content, percent relative water content and ascorbic acid of the leaf samples of five plant species namely, Mangifera indica, Psidium guajava, Tamarindus indica, Azadirachta indica and Delonix regia showed that their APTI values were lower in the industrial area of the Karaikudi town when compared to the residential area of the same region. Further more, the results showed the plant species, Azadirachta indica and Delonix regia have lost their tolerance and become more sensitive to pollution due to their continuous exposure to air pollutants near the industrial area.

3 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

012432   Raju P;Saseetharan M K (Technical Education Sub-Division, Govt College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 013, Email: rajup_93@yahoo.com) : Removal of lead(II) from metal plating effluents using sludge based activated carbon as adsorbent. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 7-10.

Novel adsorbent was prepared from waste sludge obtained from a sugar mill for removing heavy metals from industrial wastewater. The adsorption studies were carried out in batch and continuous modes for both sugar mill sludge based carbon and commercial carbon. In batch studies, experiments were conducted at ambient temperature to assess the influence of the parameters such as pH, adsorbent dose, contact time and equilibrium concentration. Adsorption data for the prepared carbon was found to satisfy both the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms. Column studies were carried out to delineate the effect of varying depth of carbon at constant flow rate. The breakthrough curves were drawn to establish the mechanism. The result shows that the sludge based activated carbon can be used as an alternative for commercial carbon.

11 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

012431   Rajendran A;Neelamegam P;Jamaludeen A (PG and Research Dep of Physics, Nehru Memorial College (Autonomous), Puthanampatti, Tiruchirappalli-621 007, Email: neelrajnmc@gmail.com) : Estimation of nitrate in water samples using microcontroller. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2009, 3(2), 59-63.

A simple and cost effective colorimetric spectrophotometer for determining nitrate levels in water samples has been developed. The system consists of an ultra blue LED as the light source, sample holder, a photo diode as the detector and micro controller for acquiring and processing the data. The system is working on the principle of Beer-Lambert's law. The hardware and software details of the proposed system are presented. The stability and performance of the developed system is investigated by obtaining the calibration curve for standard nitrate solutions. The nitrate levels in water samples were also measured by the system designed and compared with the values obtained by a conventional spectrophotometer.

3 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

012430   Prasanthrajan M;Doraisamy P;Marimuthu S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: prasanth_phd@yahoo.co.in) : Efficacy of lignocellulosic fungus Pleurotus sajor-caju in hastening the poultry waste composting. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2009, 3(2), 50-3.

Efficacy of the ligno-cellulosic fungus Pleurotus sajor-caju in hastening the poultry waste composting process was tested by mixing the poultry wastes with different indigenous carbonaceous waste materials, namely, coir pith and paddy straw. The compost mix inoculated with Pleurotus sajor-caju attained its maturity on 45th day of composting whereas uninoculated compost mix attained maturity during 60th day of composting. The C/N ratio of the compost mix inoculated with Pleurotus sajor-caju ranged from 10.16 to 11.80 and in the uninoculated compost mix ranged from 15.96 to 18.80 on the 45 th day of composting. Further more Pleurotus sajor-caju also played a significant role in increasing the phosphorus and potassium content of the compost mix.

2 tables, 5 ref

012429   Prakash A;Lokhande R D;Singh K B (NO, Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, CSIR, Barwa Road, Dhanbad-826 001, Email: amar_cmri@yahoo.co.in) : Impact of rainfall on residual subsidence in old coal mine workings. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 75-80.

Subsidence over old coal mine workings can not be avoided if the underground workings are not fully filled. Existence of fire, illegal mining operation and seasonal impact (rainfall) aggravated proneness of subsidence over old workings. Deals with the causative factors of subsidence over old workings and its relation with rainfall with reference to Jharia and Raniganj Coalfield, India during the year 2007. The impact of subsidence has also been dealt.

8 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

012428   Pandey S N;Gautam S (Botany Dep, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, Email: snpadey511@gmail.com) : Growth and biochemical attributes of pea (Pisum sativum Linn.) grown in nickel contaminated soils: a study on tolerance against excess nickel. J appl Biosci 2009, 35(2), 172-6.

Pea (Pisum sativum Linn.) plants were raised in post irrigated soils with graded nickel, rated for various levels of available (DTPA extractable) Ni viz. 0.12 (control), 0.52, 1.92 and 2.86 ppm in soil. The effect of these soils on growth (length, fresh and dry weight), visible toxicity and biochemical responses (protein, chlorophyll and sugar contents and catalase activity) of pea were evaluated. Plants grown at highly Ni-contaminated soil (available 2.86 ppm Ni) had visible symptoms of toxicity in the form of stunted growth (observed at 20 days after sowing). The toxicity symptoms were less severe and appeared 35 days after sowing at 1.95 ppm available Ni in soil. Fresh and dry weight of pea increased by 105 and 91%, respectively at 1.95 ppm Ni. Chlorophylls (a, b and total) and sugar contents were stimulated up to 0.52 ppm available Ni. Maximum increase in protein content was found at 1.95 ppm Ni. Catalase activity increased with increase in available Ni concentrations in soil from 0.12 to 2.86 ppm. Antioxidative defence systems with respect to protein content and catalase activity favored the biomass production in pea at high concentration of Ni (above 0.52 ppm), whereas sugar and pigment contents declined above this concentration. Pea plants tolerated low Ni (available 0.52 ppm) concentration. High concentrations (available 1.95 and 2.86 ppm) were not stimulatory to growth and produced visible toxicity.

2 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

012427   Meena Devi V N;Vijayalakshmi G S;Nagendra Prasad P (NO, Sri Paramakalayani Centre for Environmental Sciences, Manonmaniam Sund, Alwarkurichi-627 412) : Physico-chemical analysis of Alexandrian laurel oil - a potential source of biodiesel. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 607-13.

Alexandrian laurel is a versatile multipurpose tree which can grow well in the degraded soils as well as in the coastal areas. It is well suited for the Tsunami affected areas because of its robust root system. It can adapt to a wide range of temperature and altitude up to 1000 m above sea level. This tree has got the potentiality to produce 150-200 kg of seeds per tree per year. The oil obtained from the seed is used in the manufacture of soap, perfumes, cosmetics, paints, lighting purpose and also in the production of BIODIESEL. The nitrogen rich oilcake is a good organic manure. The bark, leaf, flowers are noted for their medicinal value. The lightweight hardwood of these species is used in boat construction and for making honey bee shelves. This evergreen tree can check soil erosion. The river belts and sea shore areas are ideal places for cultivating Alexandrian laurel tree. They are economically viable and ecologically sustainable. Alexandrian laurel tree has potentiality to use the oil as the feedstock for biodiesel production. In the study, the physico-chemical properties are analysed. The ultrasonic studies proved that this oil could be used as a source for biodiesel.

7 ref

012426   Mathur P;Sharma S;Soni B (Environmental Studies Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer-305 009) : Multiple regression equations modelling of groundwater of Ajmer-Pushkar railway line region, Rajasthan (India). J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 11-14.

Attempt is made to formulate multiple regression equations using all possible regressions method for groundwater quality assessment of Ajmer-Pushkar railway line region in pre-and post-monsoon seasons. Correlation studies revealed the existence of linear relationships (r≥0.7) for electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH) and total dissolved solids (TDS) with other water quality parameters. The highest correlation was found between EC and TDS (r = 0.973). EC showed highly significant positive correlation with Na, K, Cl, TDS and total solids (TS). TH showed highest correlation with Ca and Mg. TDS showed significant correlation with Na, K, SO₄, PO₄ and Cl. The study indicated that most of the contamination present was water soluble or ionic in nature. Mg was present as MgCl₂; K mainly as KCl and K₂SO₄, and Na was present as the salts of Cl, SO₄ and PO₄. On the other hand, F and NO₃ showed no significant correlations. The r² values and F values (at 95% confidence limit, α=0.05) for the modelled equations indicated high degree of linearity among independent and dependent variables. Also the error % between calculated and experimental values was contained with ±15% limit.

4 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

012425   Manju P;Bhuvaneswari V;Jeyanthi S J P (Biochemistry Dep, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Arts and Science for Women, Perambalur-621 121, Email: manjubio2020@yahoo.co.in) : Investigation of physico-chemical characteristics and screening for mutagenesis in chromium electroplating industry effluent. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 201-4.

Physicochemical characteristics of Chromium electroplating industry effluent were analysed. The effluent colour, turbidity,pH,electrical conductivity, total suspended solids and total dissolved solids were beyond the permissible limits. The High levels of BOD and COD indicates a high organic load in the effluent. The total hardness, chloride, sulphate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and chromium levels exceeded the tolerance limit prescribed by Bureau of Indian standards. The mutagenicity of the effluent was confirmed by Ames Salmonella assay using mutant bacterial strains of Salmonella typhimurium TA 98 and TA 100. The present investigation indicated that the effluent is highly hazardous to the environment.

2 tables, 23 ref

012424   Maheswaran G;Elangovan K (Civil Engineering Dep, K.S.R. College of Engineering, Tiruchengode-637 215, Email: maheswaran_rgs@yahoo.co.in) : Hydrogeochemical studies of groundwater in Salem district, Tamil Nadu (India). J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 47-52.

Salem is one of the industrial, agricultural and mineral deposit based district in Tamil Nadu. An attempt is made to assess the quality of groundwater in this district, during the month of May 2007 (pre-monsoon). The government of Tamil Nadu has divided the district into twenty blocks. Sixty six samples were collected covering all the blocks of the district except Yercaud which is a structural hill. The collected samples were tested for the following parameters: electrical conductivity, turbidity, pH, total hardness, iorn, chlorides, total dissolved solids, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, sulphate, nitrate, nitrite and total alkalinity. The test results were interpreted using IS 10500 - 1991, statistical methods, SAR, USSL classification and Piper's trilinear diagram. Based on the interpretation it is concluded that the study area is mostly influenced by the presence of electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, chloride and total alkalinity whereas the other minerals and salts play a minor role.

13 illus, 5 tables, 8 ref

012423   Kotangale J P;Chaudhari P R;Pentu Saheb S; Wate S R (NO, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR), Nehru Marg, Nagpur-0440 020, Email: kotangale@neeri.res.in) : Avifauna in the Panipat region, Haryana (India). J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 61-6.

Avifaunal study was carried out in the Panipat region, Haryana (India) at 56 locations. 91 birds species were observed during the study, of which, 39 species were aquatic. However sparrow was found to be dominant followed by bank myna, house crow and Indian myna. Among the aquatic birds, cattle egret was dominant followed by common pochard, pintail and blackwinged stilt. Encounter rates of the birds were related to the dominant indices of each species. Species diversity index was found to be 10.25 which showed the richness of avifauna in the region. Majority of birds were insectivorous followed by piscivorous. Reveals the occurrence of more birds, especially aquatic ones, after the commissioning of the refinery.

1 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

012422   Khadse G K;Talkhande A V;Andey A P;Kelkar P S (Geo-Environment Management Div, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI, CSIR), Nehru Marg, Nagpur-440 020, Email: gk_khadse@neeri.res.in) : Water resources development and management an experience in Rural hilly area. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 67-74.

Himalayan region of Tehri Garhwal in India has scattered habitations in the village with scanty, non-perennial and unsafe water resources like springs and streams. Poor environmental conditions arising from unsafe drinking water, inadequate sanitary measures, unhygienic disposal of excreta, sullage and accumulation of solid wastes have resulted in poor public health. The experiences gained through water supply and sanitation studies carried out especially in this rural area have been shared so as to enable adoption of relevant practices and technologies developed by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (Neeri, India) in the affected areas. Environmental protection of the streams and springs for sustained water availability and safe drinking water supply was ensured with active public participation, training, and awareness programs. Various surface rainwater harvesting structures were constructed at suitable sites along with ferro-cement roofwater harvesting tanks in selected villages. The activities related to designing and commissioning of a small slow sand filtration unit were carried out at Chhati (Nakot) village for safe drinking water supply. Chlorination pots were demonstrated and installed in rainwater harvesting tanks for disinfection of water for drinking purpose. Water quality assessment and health survey (parasitic and hemoglobin investigation) in the affected villages were carried out before and after technological intervention. The training and awareness programs were organised for people of 23 villages in the study area covering water and sanitation related topics. The beneficiary's opinions, perceptions, apprehensions, as well as expectations reflected positive approach towards the achievement of anticipated benefits and impacts.

7 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

012421   Kayal N;Sinha P K;Kundu D (Analytical Chemistry Section, Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CSIR), 196, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata-700 032, Email: dipali@cgcri.res.in) : Application of chemically modified rice husk for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solution. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 15-18.

Removal efficiency of lead, cadmium and zinc from aqueous solution on adsorption by using rice husk, a non-conventional material in its natural and chemically modified form has been presented. It has been observed that rate of adsorption is dependent on the nature of the adsorbent, adsorbent dose, particle size of the adsorbent, concentration, pH, contact time, temperature, etc. Under identical experimental condition chemically modified rice husk was found to possess greater adsorption capacity for all metals than untreated rice husk and chemically modified rice husk ash. Chemically modified rice husk could remove 99.8% Pb, 95% Cd and 97% Zn from aqueous solution at room temperature.

4 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

012420   Jain J K;Shrivastava N (Centre for Post Graduate Studies and Research in Chemistry, Agarwal P.G. College, Jaipur-302 002, Email: jkjain8962@yahoo.co.in) : Water pollution by dyes and heavy metals some remedial aspects. Asian J chem envir Res 2008, 1(2-3), 76-86.

Sea mouth at Rayadoruvu is gradually closing with sand bar formation due to blow of north bound wind as per satellite remote sensing imagery data from 2000-2006 and direct observational data showing sand bar formation for the year 2008 and 2009 is presented. Pulicat Lake requires immediate action for dredging as done for Chilka Lake. Construction qf a groyne is recommended to prevent sea mouth closure by sand. Thus Rayadoruvu sea mouth passage is not simply a passage but also a biocorridor for migration of fish, crustaceans, after spawning and breeding from lake to sea and vice versa acting as food for migratory long distant scheduled birds. The shallow water regimen is also an ideal niche during monsoon and also during post monsoon period upto March for fish and shrimp catch which has come down by 30% in 2009 and plankton density recorded was very less partially due to sea mouth shrinkage.

77 ref

012419   Datta S N;Chakraborty S K;Jaiswar A K; Deshmukhe G (Fisheries Resource Management Div, Central Institute of Fisheries Education, ICAR, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai-400 061, Email: sushanta.c@rediffmail.com) : Intertidal biodiversity and health status of bandstand shore (Bandra), Mumbai India. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 27-32.

Study was carried out to assess the biodiversity status of the intertidal region of rocky shore of Bandstand (Bandra), Mumbai. Among 42 species recorded, Euchelus asper was maximum in density during December (123/m^{2). However, maximum biomass was recorded for Nerita oryzarum in November (146.94 g/m2). ANOVA revealed no variation in the occurrence of organisms according to transects, but the variation was recorded according to months and quadrates. Shannon and Simpson's diversity index, Margalef's richness index and Pielou's evenness index indicated different level of ecological state of the shore in different months. Dendrogram from Bray-Curtis similarity matrix and non metric Multi - Diamentional Scaling (MDS) revealed maximum closeness of occurrence between N. oryzarum and Planaxis sulcatus. Shepard diagram and abundance / biomass comparison (ABC) curve method revealed light to moderately polluted status of the shore. However, in spite of such conditions, this shore is still rich in intertidal biodiversity that should be conserved.}

4 illus, 2 table, 31 ref

012418   Charan P D;Sharma R;Sharma K C (Environmental Studies Dep, MDS University, Ajmer-305 009, Email: prabhuenviro@gmail.com) : Gas chromatographic analysis of organochlorine pesticides in lake Anasagar of Ajmer, Rajasthan (India). J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 37-40.

Anasagar is a perennial, shallow fresh water body which is degraded because of agricultural and other anthropogenic activities, such as input of detergent, sewage disposal, human settlement around the lake etc. In the lake waters as well as in the catchment area, pesticides are being used by the farmers which lead to contamination of water. Gas chromatographic analysis of 120 contaminated water samples collected from the lake was carried out. The organochlorine pesticides recorded in the samples were Heptachlor, β-HCH, γ-HCH, Aldrin, DDT and Endosulfan. The average ranges of these pesticides were 0.0224ppm, 0.1035 ppm, 0.0478 ppm, 0.0041 ppm, 0.1381 ppm and 0.5051 ppm, respectively. The study revealed that water of Anasagar is highly contaminated with these synthetic pesticides. Among these agrochemicals, the level of Endosulfan, DDT and γ-HCH were found to be significantly high in the lake. Therefore, the research efforts are needed to conserve the wetland as well as to minimise the impacts of agrochemicals on the lake ecosystem.

2 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

012417   Chanakya V;Jeevan Rao K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, College of Agriculture, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (AN, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: kjeevanrao@yahoo.co.in) : Impact of industrial effluents on groundwater quality. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 41-6.

Survey was conducted to assess the long-term effect of industrial effluents on groundwater quality for irrigation. Kattedan industrial area (India) was selected and five contaminated locations were identified. From each location, water which is being used to irrigate the crops, was collected during the months of October 2005 and February 2006. The results indicated that the concentrations of all parameters were higher in groundwater samples of Kattedan industrial area and they were found more in water samples collected during the month of February 2006 than those collected during October 2005. Among different parameters studied in water samples, Ni, Cd, Zn, Ca, Mg, TS, Na and S₄^2- were found within the permissible limits for drinking. The results of the water samples indicated that the water of Kattedan industrial area is not suitable for drinking and irrigation purpose.

3 tables, 20 ref

012416   Babaee Y;Mohmoud Mousavi S;Danesh S;Baratian A (Civil Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, Email: mmousavi@um.ac.ir) : Influence of transmembrane pressure and feed concentration on the retention of arsenic, chromium and cadmium from water by nanofiltration. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(1), 1-6.

One of the main toxic pollutants in drinking water is heavy metals which must be reduced to standard levels. Removal of trace amounts of heavy metals can be achieved by means of membrane processes such as nanofiltration. Removal efficiency of a nanofiltration membrane is strongly affected by operating conditions. Focusses on the effect of two key parameters, i.e. transmembrane pressure and feed concentration on the removal of heavy metals (arsenic, chromium and cadmium) from water by a polymeric nanofiltration membrane UTC-70UB charged negatively. The rejection experiments included variation of heavy metals feed concentrations in the range of 100 to 400 μg/L for arsenic and chromium and 20 to 80 μg/L for cadmium, and different transmembrane pressures in the range of 5 to 14 bar. The results indicated that under most conditions tested in this research, the rejection of heavy metals was found to increase when the transmembrane pressure was increased. The results also showed the high rejection percentage of the heavy metals, with the maximum retention values of arsenic, cadmium and chromium, 97%, 100% and 95% respectively. The percent reduction of arsenic and chromium was found to enhance as their concentration in the feed increased. However, in the case of cadmium, the rejection was reduced with increase in the concentration.

6 illus, 31 ref

012415   Arivoli A S (Chemistry Dep, H.H.G. Rajah's College, Pudukkottai-622 001, Email: arivu3636@yahoo.com) : Adsorption of rhodamine B by acid activated carbon- thermodynamic and equilibrium studies. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2009, 3(2), 86-97.

A carbonaceous adsorbent prepared from an indigenous waste by acid treatment was tested for its efficiency in removing Rhodamine B (RDB). The parameters studied include agitation time, initial dye concentration, carbon dose, pH and temperature. The adsorption followed first order reaction equation and the rate is mainly controlled by intra-particle diffusion. Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models were applied to the equilibrium data. The adsorption capacity (Q_m) obtained from the Langmuir isotherm plots were 84.842, 88.574, 92.425 and 96.284 mg/g respectively at an initial pH of 7.0 at 30, 40, 50 and 60°C. The temperature variation study showed that the Rhodamine B adsorption is endothermic and spontaneous with increased randomness at the solid solution interface. Significant effect on adsorption was observed on varying the pH of the Rhodamine B solutions. Almost 83% removal of Rhodamine B was observed at 60°C. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms obtained, positive AH° value, pH dependent results and desorption of dye in mineral acid suggest that the adsorption of Rhodamine B on FBC involves physisorption mechanism.

7 illus, 7 tables, 18 ref

011411   Tripathi A;Tiwari P B;Mahima;Singh D (Botany Dep, Hindu College, Moradabad-244 001) : Assessment of air pollution tolerance index of some trees in Moradabad city, India. J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 545-50.

To see me relative tolerance of the plant species, ten different plant speciesi.e. Ficus rumphii, Pongamia pinnata, Alstonia scholaris, Holoptelea integrifolia, Saraca indica, Pithecolobium dulcis, Cassia simea, Bauhinia variegata, Azadirachta indica and Grewelia robusta was taken from residential (SI), industrial (Sll) and commercial (Sill) area of the city as this flora is very much common to the Brass city and is planted on the roadside. The quality of air with respect to SPM, S0₂ and N0₂ has been also assessed on respective sites to see its effect on biochemical parameters of the leaves i. e. pH, total water content, chlorophyll and ascorbic acid and evaluate the (air pollution tolerance index(APTI) of various plants. It was concluded that Pongamia pinnata 15.8, Pithecolobium dulcis 34.8, Holoptelea integrifolia 55.8 and Saraca indica 52.0 have very highAPTI value over control so these are considered as high tolerant tree species, Ficus rumphii 35.7, Azadirachta indica 30.5 and Grewelia robusta 34.3 have slightly more APTI value over control so these are considered as moderately tolerant tree species and Alstonia scholaris 21.5,Cassia simea 6.09 and Bauhinia variegata 18.22 have less APTI value than control, so these are sensitive species respectively. One way ANOVA finds the obtained values to be highly significant (≤ 0.001) at the industrial site. Thus present findings show that Brass and allied industries are the prominent sources responsible for the elevated level of air pollutants at the industrial site.

1 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

011410   Suneeta Kumari;Sharma A K;Sharma S (Chemical Engg. Dep, Ujjain Engg. College, Ujjain-456 010) : Energy recovery of municipal solid waste in Ujjain city. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(3-4), 52-8.

Technologies for recovering energy from municipal solid waste (MSW) are becoming increasingly established in many countries. This trend derives from a combination of factors which include the potential for economic and environmental benefits and the increasingly held belief that MSW should be viewed more as a resource and less as simply a waste requiring disposal. The objective of this research is to estimate the energy content of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in Ujjain city of M.P, India, based on its physical composition. .Ujjain city provide 150 tons/day MSW generated, Average net calorific value 1103.5kcal/kg, the net power generation-potential is 2.16 kW Ujjain. For energy recovery thermo-chemical and bio-chemical conversion process was used.

5 illus, 4 tables, 23 ref

011409   Sen J (Anthropology Dep, North Bengal Univ, PO: N.B.U., Raja Rammohunpur, Darjeeling-734 013, Email: jaydipsen@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of human exposure to toxic elements in India: an anthropological approach. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 103-10.

Assessment of human exposure to toxic trace elements has a prime role to play in the developing countries such as India where rapid industrialization along with high population growth has often brought about a degradation of the environment. Thus, exposures to such elements are a major problem and their potential to influence the physiology of human populations is significant. There is an urgent need for the assessment of human exposure to toxic elements and also on the effects of these elements on human growth and reproduction. Discusses about the effects of various toxic elements on the human body, and presents the issues of biomonitoring and the methods that are usually adopted while assessing human exposure to toxic elements.

64 ref

011408   Pathak H;Vashishtha A;Jain P K;Nagmani A; Jaroli D P;Lowry M (Biotechnology and Microbiology Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Institiute of Applied Sciences, Jaipur, Email: abhiv24@gmail.com) : Physico-chemical properties of petroleum contaminated soil collected from coastal areas of Mumbai. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 175-8.

Many of petroleum compounds either immediately or ultimately come in contact with the environment or are sequestered by soil. These are priority organic pollutants of critical environmental and public concern. With the multiplying population and progress of urban civilization, pollution caused by petroleum products and their wastes is increasing in logarithmic manner. Bioremediation of these contaminants is a prerequisite of today's world. Many parameters play an important role in microbial degradation. Physico-chemical analysis of contaminated soil was carried out using different methods. Physical analyses like soil texture, soil pH, bulk density, C/N ratio, soil moisture content, organic matter, presence of heavy metal etc. were performed. All of these parameters play an important role in biodegradation of petroleum compounds. Chemical analysis of soil was also performed using GC-MS. Presence of heavy metal ions was estimated by using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Excess hydrocarbons adversely altered the properties of the contaminated soils. Low water holding capacity and porosity and very high C:N ratio and bulk density were observed in every contaminated sample of soil. High concentration of many heavy metals was also seen.

2 tables, 11 ref

011407   Mohammadnejad S (Environmental Engineerig, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, No. 25, Email: mohammanejads@yahoo.com) : Industerial solid wastes and their management in Guilan province. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(2), 1581-8.

Industries, like other waste sources, are associated with numerous waste-related environmental problems. Guilan province is considered as an important industrial area in northern Iran. There are ca. 1976 industrial units in Guilan province, most of which are located in the outskirts of cities. In the current study an approximation of the quality and quantity of the generated waste in food industry of Guilan province, which is recognized as the largest waste generator industry in the study area in Iran is provided. In present study, questionnaires were used to collect data regarding methods of waste management used in 142 of the food businesses in the area of study. The results of the present research show that putrescibles are the most important waste in this industry. The high percentage of putrescibles in the waste stream (73.7%) and relatively appropriate physico-chemical characteristics of the waste, suggest the possibility of composting. Additionally, more than 70% of total non-organic wastes is contributed to packaging processes. There are relatively few industries that implement such correct waste management. Relatively low price of raw materials and lack of efficient penalties in case of inappropriate waste disposal by industries are considered as the major reasons of such deficiency in regional waste management. It is highly recommended that the implementation of such tax policy accompanied by joint management of generated industrial wastes be enforced in the area.

6 illus, 19 ref

011406   Makky E A;Farrag E A (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Faculty of Science, Nasar City, P.N. Boc: 11884, Al-Azhar Univ, Cairo (Egypt), Email: essam22001@yahoo.com) : Biosorption of heavy metals by pretreated fungal and rice stra biomass. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 167-73.

Water pollution by toxic heavy metals is a burning environmental problem and has presented a challenge to humans. Removal of heavy metals using non-living biomass of fungi could be a potential solution to this problem. This study evaluated the potential of fungal and rice straw biomass to remove copper and cadmium from aqueous solution. Pretreated fungal biomass by autoclaving showed the uptake percentage 65% and 77% of copper and cadmium respectively at 30 min. of contact time. Maximum uptake percentage 79% and 82% of copper and cadmium respectively at 30 min. of contact time was obtained by pretreated fungal biomass by 0.04N NaOH. On the other hand, the pretreated of fungal biomass by 0. IN NaOH decreased the uptake percentage of copper and cadmium. The uptake percentage of copper and cadmium by rice straw was not differed but the pretreated of rice straw biomass by NaOH increased the uptake percentage of copper and cadmium.. The fungal biomass was found to be effective in removing considerable amounts of copper and cadmium from aqueous solution compared with rice straw biomass. Thus, fungal biomass could be important in the removal of heavy metals

7 tables, 45 ref

011405   Lone J A;Ajay (NO, Indian Institute of Soil Science (IISS) Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Email: Javeed_environ@yahoo.com) : Linear alkyl benzene sulphonate behavior in vertisols in relation to detergent pollution. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 27-31.

Eight (8) detergent powder's purchased in Indian markets were tested for Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate concentrations. An experiment was setup for analyzing the Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate in short term LAS treated vertisols in pots and it was found that after 30 days period greater than 90% of LAS was removed. The Biodegradability of anionic surfactant LAS was determined in soil samples collected from (1) Detergent treated plots (Having plantation of lady finger and soybean) (2) and also in long term sewage treated plots at two depths i.e. 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm. The rates of biodegradation were determined by Methylene-Blue active substance method.

3 illus 3 tables, 6 ref

011404   Hung J M;Chen C Y;Huang F S;Lu C J (Environmental Engineering Dep, National Chung Shing Univ, No.250, Kuo-Kuang Road, Teichung City 402, Taiwan, Republic of China) : Biological heat potential and temperature effect of an autothermal thermophilic aerobic treatment (ATAT) system. J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 615-19.

This study focused on the evaluation of the specific biological heat potential (h) of a food-processing artificial wastewater in the autothermal thermophilic aerobic treatment (ATAT) system. A novel experimental method was developed to evaluate the h_b value by using the heat balance model under the steady state. This system was daily fed with oily and artificial wastewater at 21460 mg/^{1 COD. The sludge retention time (SRT) was controlled at 15 days. The results showed that the average values of h_b were 3.25 to 3.63 kcal g1 COD-removed for the artificial wastewater. The values of true growth yield (Y) were 0.08 to 0.19 mg-MLSS mg1 COD for the food-processing wastewater at different temperatures. The COD removal efficiency was 77 to 91 %, and it was decreased as temperature increased. But, the oil and grease (0 and G) removal efficiency was 50 to 69%, and increased as temperature increased. These results might indicate that oil and grease become more soluble and accessible to microorganisms at high temperatures. The study indicated the temperature effect constant (0) of van't Hoff-Arrhenius law was 0.958, which explained and showed typical characteristics in the low sludge yield of an ATA T process.}

6 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

011403   Dinesh Kumar;Shekhawat G S;Chaudhary A (Chemistry Dep, Banasthali Univ, Banasthali, Rajasthan-304 022, Email: dschoudhary2002@yahoo.com) : Assessment of the soil pollution parameters of the various soil samples collected from Sanganer town near pink city Jaipur, Rajasthan. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(3-4), 75-8.

Investigation was carried out in the industrially polluted zone of Jaipur city to evaluate soil pollution both quantitatively as well as qualitatively. In this study, different physico-chemical parameters and available macronutrients of contaminated soil samples have been analyzed. The results show that the untreated industrial effluents and domestic sewage contaminate the soil quality of area.

2 tables, 7 ref

011402   Dhariwal A (Civil Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: drdhariwal@sanchernet.in) : Carbon credits for reducing green house gas emission. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(3-4), 29-32.

Concept of carbon credit came into existence as a result of increasing awareness of the need for controlIing emissions. Carbon credits are a key component of national and international emissions trading schemes that have been implemented to mitigate global warming. Today developing countries are getting additional revenue for their various projects which result in reduction of Green House Gas emissions. This has become possible through Kyoto Protocol of United Nations Framework Conventions on Climate Change (UNFCCC) came into force with effect from 16th Feb. 2005 and is now fully operational through Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). India's economic growth is mainly based on energy from fossil fuel & therefore has considerable potential in reducing its Green House Gas emissions as well as in CDM participation. There is a need of more and more awareness in our country regarding CDM project so as to avail maximum benefits for our various projects to be covered under runner CDM category of UNFCCC. An attempt has been made to discuss an overview of green house effect,.Kyoto protocol and emerging green house gas market, its concept to understand the CDM project.

11 ref

011401   Dey S K;Jena P P;Kundu S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Fakir Mohan Univ, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore-756 019) : Antioxidative efficiency of Triticum aestivum L. exposed to chromium stress. J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 539-44.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L cv. Sonalika) seedlings were grown in presence of K₂Cr₂ O₂ (10,50 and 100 ppm) for 7 days and growth, total chlorophyll, activities of antioxidative enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD; EC 1.15.1.1), catalase (CAT; EC 1.11.1.6) and guaiacol peroxidase (POX; EC 1.11.1.7) and lipid peroxidation were determined in mot and shoot tissues. Growth of the seedlings was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) depressed and at 100 ppm, root length was reduced by 63% and shoot length by 44% in comparison to the respective controls. Total chlorophyll loss in shoots was about 46% at 10 ppm ofK₂Cr₂0₇ which further increased to 80% at 100 ppm. Both in root and shoot tissues, activities of SOD and CAT declined with increase of metal in growth medium and it was significant (≤ 0.05) even at lowest concentration of the metal tested. But POX activity showed a different trend. In root tissues it was decreased whereas in shoots, there was many fold increase in the activity (about 370% over control at 100 ppm). Malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased both in root and shoot tissues, but it reached significant (≤ 0.05) level at 50 ppm in roots and at 100 ppm in shoot tissues. Even though antioxidative enzyme activities were not assayed in germinating embryos, inhibition in germination percentage (by 40% at WOppm) and increase in lipid peroxidation level (by 71% over control at 100 ppm) were observed in 2-day-old embryos, germinated in presence of K₂Cr₂0₇ (10, 50 and 100 ppm). The results indicated the imposition ofoxidative stress situations both during germination and early stages of seedling growth by Cr^{6 stress, which might be one of the probable reasons behind Crtoxicity in plants.}

4 illus, 37 ref

011400   Bose D;Ghosh U;Gangopadhyay H (Food Technology & Biochemical Engineering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032) : Production of extracellular alpha amylase from Aspergillus oryzae by solid state fermentation utilizing agricultural wastes. J mycopathol Res 2009, 47(2), 153-9.

Extracellular starch degrading enzyme alpha amylases was produced under solid state fermentation by Aspergillus oryzae utilizing the agricultural wastes as fermention medium and characterized along with optimization of various environmental conditions for its production. In our study the production of alpha amylases was maximum at 30°C of 5 day of fermentation with 1 : 1 ratio of wastes to water at stationary condition when the C : N ratio was maintained at 17 : 1 with an adequate substrate (waste) concentration and particle size. The enzyme showed a maximum activity of 18007.4331 U/gds at 60°C with a pH of 7.0. Studies were also carried out to determine the specific activity, Km and Vmax value of the enzyme produced.

9 illus, 33 ref

010363   Vaid P;Vaid H;Rajneesh (Dep of Public Administration, ICDEOL, , Himachal Prakash Univ) : Healing the wounds of fragile himalayan eco-system: the impact of forest policies for sustainable development-a case study of Himachal Pradesh. Int J Envir Dev 2008, 5(2), 191-203.

17 ref

010362   Swarnakar P (Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Environment and Development (C, Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bangalore, Email: pradip@isec.ac.in) : Socio-ecology of domestic water consumption in India: a comparative study of scarcity and contamination regions. Int J Envir Dev 2008, 5(2), 167-89.

Explores the factors determining water consumption and conservation behavior (sources and uses of water) of the people for household purposes in the two regions. Second, it seeks to address a comparative assessment of health effects of drinking r water consumption in two regions. Also brings out the differences in the two regions in both life chances and levels of awareness. It can also be inferred that the nature of risk too determines the beliefs and consumption patterns which in turn ascertain the demand for infrastructure. Undoubtedly, the state support is required for building the infrastructure to solve water problem and the top-down approach of the government should be replaced by bottom-up model. The study suggests that the governmental and non-governmental actors have different roles to play for the different social practices, their role being dependent on the historical process and the tasks at hand.

1 illus, 18 tables, 18 ref

010361   Sun S L;Wu B;Zhao D Y;Zhang X X;Zhang Y;Li W X;Cheng S P (State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing Univ, nanjing-210 093, Email: zhangxx@nju.edu.cn) : Optimizaion of Xhhh strain biodegradation with metal ions for pharmaceautical wastewater treatment. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 877-82.

Effects of three ions, Mn^{2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ on biological treatment of pharmaceutical wastewater by a functional strain Xhhh were investigated. Through orthogonal tests, Cu2+ was determined to be the most important factor influencing Xhhh biodegradation performance. Biodegradation kinetic experiments demonstrated that with Cu2+ concentration at about 2.00 mg l-1, the maximum of specific growth rate and specific degradation rate were obtained tobe 0.033 and 0.0 75 d2+, respectively. The optimal levels of Mn2+ (5.00 mg l-1), Cu2+ (2.00 mg l-1) and Zn2+ (5.00 mgl-1) were achieved based on experimental results of their effects on the activities of manganese peroxidase and lignin peroxidase, and biodegradation kinetic parameters. Among three types of biodegradation kinetic models (Monod, Tessierand Contois), Tessier model was found most reasonable for kinetics description of Xhhh growth (R2 = 0.995) and pollutants degradation (R2 = 0.970) in the case of metals optimization. Both kinetics evaluation and experimental results demonstrated that optimization with the three metals made a great contribution to Xhhh growth and COD removal for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref 

010360   Srivastava N;Garima Harit;Srivastava R (Zoology Dep, Fish Biology Laboratoruy, Centre for Advanced Studies, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: haritgarima@yahoo.co.in) : Physico-chemical characteristics of lakes around Jaipur, India. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 889-894.

Annual survey of Jalmahal, Amer, Nevta and Ramgarh lakes, has been conducted for one calendar year, to determine physico-chemical characteristics of water and the levels of zinc (heavy metal) and endosulfan (an organochlorine pesticide). These lakes are situated on the outskirts of Jaipur city. Changes in pollutants correlated well with the physico-chemical characteristics of water bodies. Results reveal that the levels of endosulfan and zinc are highest in Jalmahal lake (1.324 and 0.197 mg l^{-1 respectively) and lowest in Ramgarh lake (0.020 and 0.120 mg l-1 respectively). Anthropogenic sources and cultivation in the dried up area of these lakes seem to contribute largely to pollution.}

1 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

010359   Soman G S (Botany Dep, Maharshi Dayanand College, Parel, Mumbai-400 012, Email: drgssoman@rediff.com) : Mosses of lonavala as bio-indicators of pollution. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 139-40.

Mosses are highly sensitive to pollution and are indicators of pollution and forest conditions. An analysis of Bryum argentum Hedw, Hydrogonium dedcolyi, (C.Muell) Jaeg, Meteriopsis reclinata, (C. Muell) Fleisch, Pinnatella calcutensis Fleisch, has revealed that relative concentrations of heavy metals in epiphytic mosses are more an compared to terrestrial mosses. The concentration of Copper is maximum and Arsenic is the least.

1 table, 7 ref

010358   Sirohi D S;Ali Khan M A (Environmental Science Laboratory, Botany Dep, Kisan P G College, , Simbhaoli-245 207) : Effect of simulated acid rain on growth and yield of Pennisetum glaucim (L.) R . BR.Emend Stuntz. Ann Pl Physiol 2008, 22(1), 6-18.

Samples of ambient rain with pH 5.0 has been observed ~t industrial area of Bhartiagram, Gajraula (J.P. Nagar) in June during rainy season 2003, 2004 and 2005. Simulated acid rain effects (pH 2.0, 3.0 & 4.0) were observed on Pennisetum glaucum (L.)R. Br. Cv and I.C.T.P.-8203. Germination relative index (G.R.I.), seedling growth, dry weight of root and shoot, leaf area, number of tillers plant^{-1, stomatal index, chlorophyll content, seed yield plant-1 and seed viability (%) revealed decreasing trend in pH 4.0>3.0>2.0 over the control in both the cultivers. Chlorophyll stability index (C.S.I.) was negatively correlated to chlorophyll content at each age in all plants. Notwithstanding var.-I.C.T.P.-8203 is slightly tolerant to acid rain than the var. Multicut of Pennisetum glaucum.}

7 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

010357   Shukla M K;Tripathi R D;Sharma N;Dwivedi S; Mishra S;Singh R;Shukla O P;Rai U N (Ecotoxicology and Bioremediation Group, National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226 001, Email: directornbri@satyam.net.in) : Responses of cyanobacterium Anabaena doliolum during nickel stress. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 871-6.

Growth and biochemical responses of heterocystous nitrogen fixing cyanobacteria Anabaena doliolum were studied upon exposure to various concentrations of nickel (0.1 to 100 μM) for duration ofupto 4 days, in view of its tolerance. The growth of the cyanobacterium was increased in terms of cell density (O.D), heterocyst frequency, chlorophyll-a, carotenoid and c-phycocynin upto moderate exposure (10 μM for 96 hr of Ni treatment). Protein and total non protein thiol were measured as stress responsive metabolites and frequency of heterocyst and spores were observed in responses to Ni. The present study demonstrated that the tested cyanobacterium exhibited dose specific responses of metal towards studied different morphological, physiological and biochemical parameters.

3 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

010356   Shobana C S;Amsaveni P (Microbiology Dep, Dr. G.R. Damodaran College of Science, Avanashi Road, Civil Aerodrome Post, Coimbatore-641 014) : Pseudomonas fluorescens as an ideal candidate for azo dye decolourisation. Sci Soc 2008, 6(2), 151-60.

Pseudomonas fluorescens strains were isolated from textile dye effluent contaminated soil samples collected from different parts of Tirupur town in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, India. The ability of these strains to decolourise Congo red was studied in detail. The decolourisation parameters viz., dye concentration, temperature, pH and incubation time was optimised. Presence of plasmid was confirmed by obtaining plasmid profile on agarose gel electrophoresis. Plasmid curing was carried out using sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and elevated temperature. The lose of plasmid was confirmed by antibiotic sensitivity tests. The optimal dye concentration, temperature, pH and incubation time for decolourisation of Congo red by uncured strains were found to be 0.7-1.75 mg/50 ml, 40°C, 7.0 and 3 days respectively. The effect of plasmid curing on decolourisation of Congo red was also analysed. The results indicated the involvement of plasmid in decolourisation activity.

1 illus, 5 tables, 29 ref

010355   Sarita;Jain K L (Zoology & Aquaculture Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004) : Chronic effects of heavy metals on the activity of some digestive and metabolic enzymes in Cyprinus carpio. Ann Biol 2009, 25(1), 63-7.

Study was carried out with commonly cultured healthy C. carpio exposed to two sublethal dose levels (0.025 and 0.05 ppm) of As, Hg, Ni and Cr individually and As in combination with Hg, Ni and Cr. Activity of all the digestive enzymes viz., protease, amylase and lipase was decreased in all the heavy metal treatments. The activity of alkaline phosphatase was enhanced in both the tissues viz.. body muscles and intestine, while activity of acid phosphatase was enhanced in body muscle and reduced in intestine offish. Toxic effects of different combinations of heavy metal were made severe than heavy metal alone. These studies clearly evidenced enzymatic activity measurements as direct index of metal toxicity in fishers.

3 tables, 20 ref

010354   Sandhya S;Swaminathan K (NO, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), CSIR Complex, Email: sswami_in@yahoo.com) : Formaldehyde and methanol biodegradation from the mixture in anaerobic digester. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2008, 1(1), 70-7.

Treatment of formaldehyde methanol containing synthetic wastewater in an anaerobic digester was studied. Formaldehyde and methanol were oxidized with the formation of volatile acids by mixed microbial culture from the synthetic medium. The biodegradation of methanol and volatile acid begins after exhaustion of formaldehyde in medium. First volatile acids are utilised followed by methanol. Formaldehyde and methanol mixture also follows the same pattern. HPLC analysis of volatile acids showed formation of formic, acetic and propionic acids.

5 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

010353   Ramachandra Rao G V;Murali M;Satya Prasad K; Rama Rao C B (Dep of ECE, Govt. Polytechnic for Women, Kakinada-533 003) : Air pollution monitoring: a new use of mox sensors, cellular phone network and microcontroller. Int J Envir Dev 2008, 5(2), 251-4.

Air pollution is a serious problem in urban areas of India and other developing countries. The number of automobiles has increased to N-fold due to rise in population and improved standard of living. The exhaust from the automobiles is one of the main causes for air pollution in the urban areas. Hence, it is the important area to be monitored continuously to improve the air quality in metro and urban areas. Ban of usage of automobiles with more than 15 years age, insisting Bharat III Standards for new vehicles and making periodical pollution check ups mandatory are few steps taken by the government. Government also has employed a team has to verify all pollution level verification certificates regularly. Physical verification of all such certificates is not only tedious, but also incomplete. As the automobile has to be taken to pollution check centre for pollutant level verification regularly, there is a possibility of human negligence. In the study, an attempt is made to use MOX sensors, cellular phone network, and micro-controllers to develop a new system, such that exhaust gas monitoring for automobiles can become automatic and simple.

5 ref

010352   Pulatsu S;Topcu A (Aquaculture and Fisheries Dep, Ankara Univ, Faculty of Agriculture-06110, Ankara, Turkey, Email: spulatsu@agri.ankara.edu.tr) : Seasonal and vertical distributions of porewater phosphorus and iron concentrations in a macrophyte-dominated eutrophic lake. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 801-6.

In this study, variations in total dissolved phosphorus (TDP), soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) and total iron (TFe) concentrations and pH values in the littoral sediment porewater of macrophyte-dominated eutrophic Mogan Lake (Turkey), were determined depth wise (0-20 cm, on a basis of 5 cm depths) over a period of eleven months. Additionally, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, redox potential, TDP, SRP and TFe levels in the overlying water were measured. Especially in the spring and summer months constituting a large portion of the research period, seasonal variation of SRP at depths between 0-5 cm and 15-20 cm were not found to be statistically significant (p>0.01). However, in the fall and winter months, surface sediment (0-5 cm) SRP values were elevated in comparison with deeper sediment depths. As for TFe values, no clear seasonal variation was evident at different depths. Due to the fact that TFe concentrations in the overlying water (101.25-511.67 mg.m^{3) were lower than iron concentrations in the porewater (104,00-783.00 mg.m-3), positive phosphorus release remained at low levels. In this eutrophic lake, in which action is continuing to reduce the external phosphorus load, monitoring SRP variations in the overlying water and porewater would be beneficial.}

4 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

010351   Penuelas J;Sardans J;Alcaniz J M;Poch J M (Plant Ecophysiology and Global Change Unit CSIC-CEAB-CREAF, CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications), Auto, E-08193 Bellaterra, Spain, Email: josep.penvelas@uab.cat) : Increased eutrophication and nutrient imbalances in the agricultural soil of NE catalonia, Spain. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 841-6.

The soil C, N, P and K content of agricultural soil were measured over the last 4 decades in NE Catalonia (NE Spain). Plant-available P and K increased by ca 109 and 105% respectively and total N decreased by 30%. The increases in plant-available P content are in accordance with the increasingly used pig slurry being very rich in P,and with P tendency to be retained in soils, since it is less mobile than N. The total soil N (N_M) decrease occurred in the first decade (by 41%). The uptake and withdrawal of mineral N by crops and the leaching of mineral N into groundwater and rivers after torrential rainfalls were the two likely major pathways ofN-loss from the soil. After the first decade, there has been no further decrease of N_tot as a result of the increasing fertilization of these fields, including the increasing applications of pig slurry. These results show an increasing P eutrophication in Mediterranean agricultural soils and will have several consequences for the next decades with (i) an increasing unbalance between N and P (and K) in soils that might affect crop productivity, (ii) an increasing leaching of N as nitrate to continental waters, both ground and surface waters, and (iii) a consequent need for the establishment of another fertilization strategy based on lowering the use of pig slurry and on increasing the use of fertilizers of slow mineralization that increase soil organic matter, and stabilise the soil N and P contents.

1 illus, 4 tables, 50 ref

010350   Patil V T;atil P R (Chemistry Dep, Z B Patil College, Dhule-424 002, Email: vijaypatil14@rediffmail.com) : Physicochemical analysis of selected groundwater samples of Amalner town in Jalgaon district, Maharashtra, India. E J Chem 2010, 7(1), 111-16.

Physicochemical characteristics of groundwater and municipal water in Amalner town by taking water samples from five different stations. The study was carried out by collecting four groundwater samples (Two open well, two bore well) and one municipal water sample during November 2007February 2008. The results were compared with standards prescribed by WHO and ISI 10500-91. Total 15 parameters were analysed. It was found that the underground water was contaminated at few sampling sites namely Shirud Naka, Cotton Market and Shivaji Nagar. The sampling sites Dekhu road showed physicochemical parameters within the water quality standards and the quality of water is good and it is fit for drinking purpose. The correlation coefficients were calculated for water quality assessment.

3 tables, 8 ref

010349   Panse C S;Somani V U (Zoology Dep, Maharshi Dayanand College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Parel, Mumbai-400 012) : Ecological study of tungar stream in Tungareshwar wild life sanctuary, Maharashtra. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 53-5.

The stream in Tungareshwar WLS can be considered as temporary aquatic habitat. The water quality was studied. DO content varied from 5.9 mg/l to 8 mg/l. High values of phosphates and nitrates were recorded during rnonsoon. Cyclopean copepods dominated the zooplankton. Diatoms showed high abundance. The ecosystem appeared to be under pressure due to increasing anthropogenic activities. Overall the present hydro biological and ecological status of tungar stream has been focused in the present investigation.

1 table, 14 ref

010348   Olowu R A;Ayejuyo O O;Adewuyi G O;Adejoro I A;Denloye A A B;Ogundajo A L (Chemistry Dep, Lagos State University (LASU), PMB 1087 Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria, , Email: raade_olowu@yahoo.co.uk) : Determination of heavy metals in fish tissues, water and sediment from Epe and Badagry lagoons, Lagos, Nigeria. E J Chem 2010, 7(1), 215-21.

Water samples, sediments, tilapia and cat fishes from each of Epe and Badagry lagoons in Lagos State, Nigeria were analyzed quantitatively for the presence of zinc, nickel and iron using Perking Elmer atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The sediment contains higher concentration of Fe with a value of 13.30 μg/g against 8.400 μg/g in fishes and 7.30 mg/L in water. Studies on the different parts of the fish revealed higher concentrations of 4.00 J.1g1g Ni on the head of tilapia fish followed by 2.40 μg/g Ni in the intestine of cat fish. The highest concentration of 1.95 μg/g Zn was detected on the head of the cat fish while the lowest concentration with a value of 0.16 μg/g was recorded in tilapia head. The concentration of Zn in the water is within the limits permitted by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) of 1.0 mg/L Zn set for water. None of the trace metals investigated was above the maximum permissible level set by world health organization ( WHO).

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

010347   Murugesan P;Ajithkumar T T;Ajmal S; Balasubramanian T (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: murugesaan74@gmail.com) : Use of benthic biodiversity for assessing the impact of shrimp farming on environment. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 865-70.

An attempt was made to find out the impact of shrimp farm discharges on benthic diversity in the discharge point of a shrimp farm. The duration of the study was one culture period right from stocking to harvest. The results revealed that the values of environmental entities were in the safe levels. As regards nutrients, maximum value of TOO and phosphorus were recorded in the sample collected after harvest and minimum in the sample collected during culture. BIO-ENV method revealed that nitrogen, sediment salinity and TOO were manifested as best variable combination explaining faunal distribution. Polychaetes are the dominant group (50%) with 13 species followed by crustaceans (32%) with 10 species, gastropods (10%) with 2 species and bivalves (8%) with 3 species. The faunal density was found to vary in relation to months as observed in the samples which were collected during various seasons in the other areas of estuary. In line with this, diversity values were also paralleled to the faunal density. In a nut shell, the study revealed no negative impact of shrimp farming to the estuarine benthic biota.

8 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

010346   Manosathiyadevan M;Selvisabhanayakam (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar, Tamilnadu, Email: manosathiyadevan@yahoo.co.in) : Impact of the paravanar river pollutants on the lipid level in the adult male freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium malcolmsonii (H. milne edwards) in relation to reproduction. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 83-7.

Freshwater bodies are being polluted by a multitude of pollutants from various sources like, industrial effluents, municipal wastes, garbage's, sewage pollutants and agricultural wastes etc. these pollutants contain heavy metals, persistent chemicals and pesticides are carried through food chain, their concentration increasing at each link present a threat to man when we consume the hydrobioants from polluted water. Due to such mixing of pollutants coastal and inland water resources, global fisheries is facing constant decline in prawn stocks. In the present study, to find out the impact of Paravanar river pollutants on freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium malcolmsonii collected from three Stations viz., Station-I, Station-ll and Station-Ill such as, Unpolluted (Station-l), Less polluted (Station-ll) and More polluted (Station-Ill) regions. Lipid level changes were analyzed in various organs like, gills, testis, vasdeferens, hepatopancreas, and androgenic gland. Lipid level is increased in Station-Ill when compared to Station-ll, Station-l and control prawn. There was a significant difference (p 0.01) in the quantitative parameter of lipid content. The results are discussed in details.

1 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

010345   Kharkwal G;Rawat Y S;Pangtey Y S (Botany Dep, DSB Campus, Kumaun Univ, Nainital-263 002, Email: geetakh@gmail.com ) : Ordination of the forest communities in Nainital catchment of Kumaun Himalaya. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 853-7.

Evergreen forest communities distributed within 1580-2600 m above sea level (asl) in Kumaun Himalaya were studied. Quercus leucotrichophoraA. Campus, Q. floribunda Lindl. ex Rehder, Q. semecarpifolia J.E. Smith and Pinus roxburghii Sarg. are the dominant tree species in banj-oak, tilonj-oak, kharsu-oak and chir-pine forests, respectively. Total density for tree, shrub and herb layer varied from 3.7 to 10.5 (individual 100 m^{-2), 2.0 to 38.8 (individual 100 m-2) and 5.5 to 44.0 (individual m-2), respectively. A total of five forests types (27 stands) were identified in the field on the basis of species richness and species diversity by applying polar ordination method. The diversity value for tree, shrub and herb layer ranged from 0 to 3.62, 0.36 to 3.85 and 1.23to4.21, respectively. Present study indicates the spatial patterns of vegetation in different forest communities at different altitudes.}

1 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref