010344   Kerketta S;Dash P K;Narayan L T P (Ministry of Environment and Forests, Eastern Regional Office, , Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar-751 023, Email: suna1466@rediffmail.com) : Work zone noise levels at Aarti steel plant, Orissa and its attenuation in far field. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 903-8.

The outdoor noise levels from the various work places of the integrated steel plant were measured. The average noise level (L_eqst) at the outdoor was found between 59-84 dBA. The combined noise level (L_eq) of the plant was 90 dBA and 92 dBA on 1.12.2006 and 16.12.2006, respectively. The noise levels in the far fields were found between 43-70 dBA for daytime and meet the noise quality for industrial (75 dBA) area and residential (55 dBA) areas. Maximum attenuation of 47-49 dBA of noise level was found at worker's colony and may be attributed mainly to the ground absorption. As the air quality standards otthe area in respect of noise in the ambient is tending to increase, engineering control measures suggested to the noisiest equipments for better economically viable and higher payback period.

4 illus, 2 tables, 75 ref

010343   Kamaruzzaman B Y;Ong M C;Jalal K C A; Shahbudin S;Nor O M (Institute of Oceanography and Maritime Studies, International Islamic Univ Malaysia, Jalan Istana, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia, Email: kama@iiu.edu.my) : Accumulation of lead and copper in Rhizophora apiculata from setiu mangrove forest, Terengganu, Malaysa. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 821-4.

The accumulative partitioning of Pb and Cu in the Rhizophora apiculata was studied randomly in the Setiu mangrove forest, Terengganu. Samples of leaves, barks and roots were collected randomly from the selected studied species. Sediments between the roots of the sampled mangrove plants were also collected. The results from analysis for Rhizophora apiculata shows that the concentration of Pb and Cu were accumulated higher in root tissue compared to bark and leaf tissue but lower than surrounding sediment level. The average concentration of Cu for Rhizophora apiculata in leaf, bark, root and sediment was 2.73, 3.94, 5.21 and 9.42 mg l^{-1, respectively. Meanwhile, the average concentration of Pb in leaf, bark, root andsediment was 1.43,1.38, 2.05 and 11.66 mg l-1, respectively. Results of concentration factors (CF) showthatthe overall the concentration of Pb and Cu were accumulated much higher in roots system of Rhizophora apiculata.}

2 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

010342   Jain K L;Sarita (Zoology & Aquaculture Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004) : Induction of behavioural and morphological changes in Cyprinus carpio on exposure to sublethal doses of heavy metals. Ann Biol 2009, 25(1), 69-74.

The present investigation was aimed at studying the effect of toxic heavy metals, arsenic, mercury, chromium and nickel alone and arsenic in combination with other three heavy metals at 0.025 and 0.05 ppm concentrations on behaviour and external body symptoms. Jerky and whirling movements were seen while swimming, alongvvith frequent surfacing and engulping of air at the water surface. The treated fish were more slimy as compared to the control fish. Fish became restless and came to water surface at every 3-4 min. Conspicuous changes were observed in external body symptoms like body colour change, fin blackening, fin erosion, descaling and haemorrhage. The changes in external body symptoms were duration dependent and were frequently evident under As+Hg and As+Cr treatments. Depigmentation was exceptionally observed in As+Cr treatment. Ulceration in snout and white patch on caudal fin were also exceptionally evident in nickel and chromium treatments.

1 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

010341   Gol C (Watershed Management Dep, Faculty of Forestry, Univ of Cankiri Karatekin-18200, Cankiri, Turkey, Email: ceyhungol@karatekin.edu.tr) : Effects of land use change on soil properties and organic carbon at Dagdami river catchment in Turkey. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 825-30.

This research was carried out in Dagdami river catchment located in the highlands of the Black sea region of Turkey. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of representative land-use and land-cover types of largely deforested areas of Black sea region on soil properties. We measured these effects by quantifying some soil analyses were done on soil samples were taken at two depths (0-5 and 5-15 cm) and two aspects (N and S). According to the results of statistical analysis, satured hydraulic conductivity (K_sat), bulk density (BD), water stable aggregates (WSA), soil organic matter (SOM), soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen significantly change with land use type and aspect. Results have shown significantly higher values of saturated hydraulic conductivity (K_sat) in natural forest top soil (82.4 cm³.h^-1 on average) compared to grasslands soils (8.4 cm³ h^-1) and hazelnut garden soils (11.5 cm³ h^-1) and corn field soils (30.0 cm³.h^-1). It was determined that WSA was greater in the pasture and forest soils than in cultivated soils. In addition, K_sat was found the highest value in the forest soils at all aspects while, SOM and SOC of forest soils are higher than other land use types. On the other hand, amount of SOM and SOC of soils of grassland, hazelnut garden and com field are low level and close to each other. Soils under hazelnut garden (1.1 g cm^-3) and grassland (1.1 g cm^-3) have higher bulk density than the adjacent soils under forests (0.7 g cm^-3) and corn field (1.0 cm^-3) for two different aspects. Furthermore, after long term continuous cultivation of the natural forest soil, it was determined that some physical and chemical characteristics of it has been significantly changed.

6 illus, 1 table, 54 ref

010340   Godwin Wesley S;Lenin Raj Y;Varughese K G (Zoology Dep, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Biomonitoring of heavy metals in marine algae off Kudankulam, gulf of mannar, India. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 37-43.

The usefulness of seaweeds as an indicator of metals in the Kudankulam coastal waters is highlighted in this study. Twenty five seaweed species were collected from the intertidal region of the Kudankulam coast. The collected samples were analysed for Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb in Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The concentration of heavy metals in various Phaeophyta species was found to be relatively higher compared to those in the other two algal groups (Chlorophyta and Rhodophyta). The results showed that the concentration of Fe and Mn in most of the seaweeds were found to be higher but widely fluctuating. Inter-elemental relationship was also established. Significant linear correlation was observed between 36 pairs of metals. The metal contents of all the algae were subjected to Metal Pollution Index (MPI) analysis for comparing total metal load between species. The highest MPI was found in Hypnea sp. Valaniopsis pachynema, Padina pavonica and Hypnea sp. accumulate most of the metals in a higher level. Because of the higher concentration of most of the metals, these species could be used as indicators of metal pollution. This study was carried out in Kudankulam coast, 25 km northeast of Kanyakumari where a mega nuclear power station is under construction. Since radio nuclides behave similar to stable nuclei, the present study assumes greater importance for Kudankulam coast. This study provides baseline data for heavy metals of Kudankulam marine algae and for assessing if there is any change in future in the environment.

4 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

010339   Garg R K;Rao R J;Saksena D N (Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology, M.P. Council of Science and Technology (MPCST), Vigyan Bhawan, Nehru Nagar, Bhopal-462 003, Email: gargrajk@rediffmail.com) : Water quality and conservation management of Ramsagar reservoir, Datia, Madhya Pradesh. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 909-16.

The aim of this study is to assess physico-chemical characteristics, trophic status, pollution studies and macrophytic community of Ramsagarreservoirfrom April 2003 to March 2005. The range of various parameters of reservoir water (water temperature 15.92-31.87 °C, water depth 2.90-8.25 m, transparency 66.59-116.00 cm, electrical concfucfiV/ty 108-246.30 μS cm^{-1, turbidity 2.17-16.72 NTU, total dissolved solids 166.37-239.00 mg I-1, pH 7.41-8.95, dissolved oxygen 6.78-11.59 mg l-1, free carbon dioxide nil-6.32 mg l-1, total alkalinity 64.25-146.25 mg l-1, total hardness 34.00-75.25 mg l-1, chlorides 13.13-22.36 mg l-1, calcium 11.21-33.81 mg l-1, sulphates 1.50-8.87 mg l-1, nitrates 0.011-0.033 mg I-1, nitrites 0.004-0.029 mg l-1, phosphates 0.013-0.054 mg l-1, silicates 0.65-8.42 mg l-1, ammonia nil-0.84 mg l-1, biochemical oxygen demand 0.93-4.68 mg l-1, chemical oxygen demand 3.60-17.40 mg l-1, magnesium 1.17-5.60 mgl l-1, sodium 16.75-34.30 mg l-1 and potassium 1.97-4.86 mg I-1) exhibit monthly as well as seasonal fluctuations. The nutrients including silicates, sulphates, phosphates, nitrates and potassium are in sufficient quantities forthe growth of aquatic plants and animals in the reservoir. In all 13 species ofmacrophytes were recorded from the reservoir. Macrophytic diversity was higher at the points where nallahasjoin the reservoir and in the areas where agricultural practices are performed. This was due to allocthonous nutrients brought in to the reservoir from the surrounding catchments area. The above study indicated that the Ramssgar reservoir is under the category of mesotrophic water body slightly inclined towards eutrophication. Therefore, the conservation and management of this water body are very much required.}

2 illus, 5 tables, 54 ref

010338   Deshpande S M (Postgraduate Dep of Geology, Government Institute of Science, Caves Road, Aurangabad-431 004) : Impact of industries on groundwater regime of waluj urban conglomerate of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 64-6.

The work was undertaken to asses the hydrogeochemistry of the groundwater in waluj industrial development areas of Aurangabad. The analytical results indicated high incidence of total dissolved solids, magnesium, hardness and chloride in several parts of study areas surrounded by the industries. Degree of weathering is the contribution factor for high incidence of total dissolved solids and hardness in certain parts and seepage of industrial waste in several other places. Deterioration, in the quality of water has been observed in all the areas, and water is not suitable for drinking or industrial use.

1 table, 8 ref

010337   Datta J K;Banerjee A;Saha Sikdar M;Gupta S; Mondal N K (Environmental Science Dep, The Univ of Burdwan, Burdwan-713 104, Email: profjkdatta@yahoo.co) : Impact of combined exposure of chemical, fertilizer, bio-fertilizer and compost on growth, physiology and productivity of Brassica campestries in old alluvial soil. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 797-800.

Field experiment was carried out during November 2006 to February 2007 under old alluvial soil to evaluate the impact of combined dose of chemical fertilizer, biofertilizer in combination with compost for the yellow sarson (Brassica campestries cv.B₉)in a randomized block design replicated thrice. Various morpho-physiological parameters viz., plant population, length of shoot and root, leaf area index (LAI), crop growth rate (CGR), net assimilation rate (NAR), yield attributes viz., numberofsiliquae per plant, number of seeds / siliquae, 1000 seed weight (test weight), seedyield, stover yield and physiological and biochemical parameters viz., pigment content, sugar, am/no acid, protein, ascorbic acid content in physiologically active leaf were performed. The treatment T₁ i.e., 40% less N fertilizer, 25% less P fertilizer, K fertilizer constant + 12 kg ha^-1 biofertilizer (Azophos) and organic manure (compost) @ 5Mt ha^-1, showed the maximum chlorophyll accumulation (10.231 mg g^-1 freshweight), highest seed/siliquae (25.143), test weight of seeds (4.861 g) and highest seedyield (10.661 the^-1). A comparison between all the morphological, anatomical, physiological and biochemical parameters due to application of chemical fertilizer, bio-fertilizer and compost alone and in combination and their impact on soil microorganism, flora and fauna will throw a sound en vironmental information.

6 tables, 26 ref

010336   Dar J A;Yadav S K (School of Studies in Environment Management, Vikram University, Ujjain (M P)-456 010, Email: sk_yadav11043@yahoo.com) : Water quality status of Yamuna river at Delhi segment: an analytical study. Biozone 2009, 1(2), 165-70.

Describes pollution load/parameters viz. pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total coliform (TC) of Yamuna river. The water quality of the river is conforming to water quality criteria with respect to pH only throughout its length. The pH value of river at Delhi varies from 7.2 to 7.9, dissolved oxygen (DO) from 0.4 to 7.9 mg/l, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) varies from 2.5 to 40.6 and chemical oxygen demand (COD) varies from 17.2 to 137.9. The level of Total colform (TC) is twice the permissible limit at the time when Yamuna enters Delhi, becomes 25 times tilI it leaves Delhi. This all happens in a short span of traversing 21 km of so called `Delhi segment'.

1 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

010335   Chouhan A;Mishra N;Soni K K (pest Control Ayurvedic Drug Res Lab, S S Jain PG College, Vidisha) : Assessment of fluoride in drinking water of fluorosis endemic areas of Mandla, M.P.. Asian J Anim Sci 2009, 3(2), 219-21.

1 table, 15 ref

010334   Cairns J (Biological Sciences Dep, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State Univ, Blacksburg, Virginia- 24061, U.S.A., Email: jcairns@vt.edu) : Ectotoxicology risk assessment for a changing world. Sci Soc 2008, 6(2), 113-22.

Exponential economic growth has resulted in grave damage to the biospheric life support system and the ecosystems that comprise it. The ubiquitous single-species toxicity tests provide crucial evidence on death, reproductive processes, and recruitment rates, but not on important ecosystem attributes such as community structure and function. The testing systems used (microcosms, mesocosms, and field enclosures) are not miniature ecosystems but can, if appropriately designed, furnish useful information on the risk of toxicants to important cause/ effect pathways. Ecosystems provide important resources and services upon which humankind depends, so they deserve more protection than they are now getting. Ecotoxicology is based on the use of endpoints (e.g., nutrient cycling, energy transfer) characteristic of ecosystems. Economic globalization has resulted in a marked increase in waste discharges in developing countries. Developed countries must help train ecotoxicologists in developing countries so that problems can be treated at the source where total societal costs are lowest. Developed countries must also avoid creating technologies that are inappropriate everywhere lest they be adopted by developing countries (e.g., "seeding" the oceans with iron). In addition, very rapid climate change provides many challenges to ecotoxicologists. Even small (2-3°C) increases in temperature may alter partitioning and uptake of many chemical substances. As the tropical zone moves both north and south, test species will change, as will the ecosystems they inhabit. Toxicity testing methods and procedures must be modified as rapidly as these ecological changes occur. Developing and obtaining approval for new ecotoxicity testing methods (e.g., American Society for Testing and Materials or European Union) will be a necessary but time consuming activity. The information flow is inadequate between bottom-up (i.e., ecosystem component) information and top-down (i.e., system level) information. Yet a synthesis of the two types of information is essential for sound decision making. All components of the biosphere (e.g., air, water, land, biota) are important to systems (e.g., Gaia), but are all too often considered in isolation from each other. All too often, disciplines, even ecotoxicology, are too isolated from each other and the general public. The attacks on global climate change science and evolution in the United States are good examples of the consequences of this discontinuity. In addition, ecotoxicologists need to become more involved in the developing field of nanotechnology.

23 ref

010333   Brander K (Danish Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical Univ of Denmark, DK-2920 Charlottenlund, Denmark, Email: kbr@aqua.dtu.dk) : Impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and fisheries. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 1-13.

4 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

010332   Bhalerao S A (Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, Wilson College, Mumbai-400 007) : Role of Ipomoea carnea Jacq. in greening metal contaminated habitats. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 47-52.

Ipomoea carnea, Jacq. (Family Convolvulaceae) is an exotic weed distributed in tropical countries of Asia & America. In India it is a common weed in the fields and has probably got introduced along with cultivation. General survey of vegetation showed that this species formed pure or mixed stands in practically all kinds of habitats common in an urban environment, revealing its wide ecological amplitude. Systematic study has been initiated to assess the range of tolerance of this species to various environmental stresses. Present paper deals with response of roots of Ipomoea carnea to the solid for any plant to grow in unnatural media, the capacity of the root to penetrate, survive and grow, lies in the adaptability and plasticity of the plant species. On comparing the relative growth performance of plants in different layering experiments it was seen that plants which were grown on horizontal layering with F.Y.M showed much higher values for almost all the parameters.lts capacity for gregarious growth at various unfavorable habitats is a pointer for its possible utility in greening such habitats which keep increasing with urbanization and industrialization.

6 illus, 7 tables, 7 ref

009292   Zogaris S;Chatzinikolaou Y;Dimopoulos P (Hellenic Center for Marine Research, Institute of Inland Waters, Athens-Sounio, Anavissos GR-19013, Attiki, Greece, Email: pdimopul@cc.uoi.gr) : Assessing environmental degradation of Montane Riparian zones in Greece. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 719-26.

Survey of 218 woody vegetation plots at 109 streamside sites was undertaken to describe anthropogenic degradation of riparian zone woodlands in the mountains of mainland Greece. Two assessment indices and specific anthropogenic pressure variables were employed and they showed good correlations at both the site and river segment scales. It was demonstrated through the Spanish Riparian Forest Quality Index (Qualitat de Bosc de Riber: QBR) that most riparian zones were in moderate or good condition, although extremely few sites were of high ecological status. Most riparian sites were affected by several anthropogenic pressures, some pressures produce notable degradation beyond the site-scale (i.e. at the river segment scale). This work provides a summary of the first wide-ranging vegetation-based assessment of montane riparian zones in Greece; the results support the use of site-based rapid assessment protocols along-side aquatic ecological status surveys.

5 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

009291   Vishwanath Prasad (Thakur Ram Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan Univ, Birgunj, Nepal, Email: mpal_vp@yahoo.com) : Harmful algal blooms (HABs): impacts and managements. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 67-70.

Dense algal population, referred as bloom, may be both beneficial and harmful. Beneficial algal blooms may be useful for various purposes such as pharmaceutical, food and feed, sanitation, bioremediation, antibiotic, secondary metabolites and energy productions. But, harmful algal blooms (HABs) cause adverse effect to crops, cattles, fish, environment and human health. Both macrophytic and microphytic terretrial, marine as well as freshwater HABs may consequently damage the public economy. Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) and potential human health hazards due to HABs consumtion have become serious global problem and thus HABs management has attracted the attention of scientists, public and policymakers. Besides, HABs management by six active ingredients of the algicides, alteration of environmental conditions such as nutrient reduction and darkness may be the most effective management tool for macroalgae. At present, management by biological agents such as water fowl, snails, crayfish, herbivore fish and grass carp are the most ecofriendly management tools.

4 tables, 30 ref

009290   Vijay Amirtharaj K S;Raghavn R (Fisheries College and research Institute, Tamilnadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Thoothukudi-628 008) : Zinc contamination in water, sediment and C. madrasensis of Thoothukudi and Tiruchendur coasts, Tamil Nadu. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 153-8.

Study was done to asses the rate of Zinc contamination from the samples of Water, Sediment and in the edible oyster C. madrasensis from Thoothukudi (Stn. I) and Thiruchendur (Stn. II) coasts. The temporal and spatial variations of Zinc observed in water and sediment were at higher values in Stn.I compared to Stn.II. The biornagnification factor values recorded for Stn.I and Stn.II showed a corresponding increase in Zinc values in the higher organism of the tropic.

3 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

009289   Vidyavathi H;Basavarajappa B E;Puttaiah E T (Environmental Science & Technology Sudy Center, Bapuji Institute of Engineering & Technology, Post Box No. 325, Davanagere-577 004, Email: dr.vidyavathi@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of ground water pollution and its chemical quality in Harapanahalli taluk, district Davanagere, Karnataka. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 81-6.

Population explosion in our human society has changed the environment, natural ecosystem and its resources for selfishness. The less availability of water in nature and increasing population, deforestation, industrialization, etc., has not only decreased the per capita of availability of water but also deteriorated the quality of water being used. The chemical quality of water plays a very important role for evaluating its usefulness for drinking purposes; different ions are present beyond certain limits in water to cause toxic effect or undesirable symptoms to human body. The high concentration due to excessive use of DAP(Diammonium Phosphate), CAN(Calcium Ammonium Nitrate), Urea, as fertilizers, Pesticides like Aldrin Diddrin etc, industrial pollution and domestic wastes from town municipality of Harapanahalli Taluk which leads the pollution of ground water. The present investigation reveals that about 62% of samples from different localities have seen to be polluted by undesirable high concentration of ions such as Total hardness, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, Fluoride, Nitrate etc present in the water may be of health hazard to the people of the area.

12 illus, 10 ref

009288   Veera V S S R;Pavan P;Dasgupta M S (NO, Mechanical Engineering Group, BITS Pilani, 333031, Email: msdasgupta@gmail.com) : E-waste management - a study in perspective of Pilani. J Coop Univ Res Ind Enterpr 2010, 2(4), 11-20.

E-waste management is an emerging issue, driven by the rapidly increasing quantities of complex end-of-life electronic equipments. E-waste contains large amount of both toxic and valuable substances. The international regulations, mainly under Basel convention, enforce a global ban on trans-border movements of E-waste but implementation of the same has its own difficulty due to lack of convergence in definition of E-waste followed by different governments, agencies and stake holders. Most E-waste in India ends up with slum based scrap dealers, who, in dangerous and liiinirdous working conditions take away resalable parts from this waste. The rest goes into landfills without proper treatment, posing serious ecological threat. Previous studies have shown region wise variation in E-waste handling pattern in India. Under this study, a comprehensive survey is carried out with scrap dealers in and around Pilani town of Jhunjhunu district of Rqjasthan to gather information about the state of art. In the backdrop, comparison with the best practices in world is made to understand what is lacking in Pilani vis-a-vis India.

3 illus, 23 ref

009287   Vasumathi Reddy K;Laxmi Prasad K;Swamy M; Ravinder Reddy T (Zoology Dep, Vaagdevi Degree & P.G. College, Warangal-506 009) : Physio-chemical parameters of Pakhal lake of Warangal district, Andhra Pradesh, India.. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 77-80.

Pakhal lake water is mainly used for irrigation, drinking, fish Culture, and also for other agricultural and domestic purposes. In the investigation the Physico Chemical Parameters of Pakhal lake water analysed for a period of one year (from Oct 2004 to Sep 2005) to analyse the water quality of pakhal lake. The water quality parameters such as Temperature, pH, Free CO₂, Electrical conductivity, Total alkalinity, DO, BOD, Phosphate, Choloride Calcium ere analysed month wise for 12 months.

1 table, 15 ref

009286   Swapna Vahint K;Saritha V;Sumanth Kumar M (Environmental Studies Dep, GITAM Inst of Sci, GITAM Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 040, Email: ksv_jr08@yahoo.com) : Environmental health, hygiene and personal sanitation status in selected slums of Visakhapatnam. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 96-9.

Cities are exploding into vast conglomerations and we.are threatened by health breakdown:Aging populations presage a future of geriatric slums. Cities are now locked in head-to-head competition and the good health of citizens js an conomic'asset. Cities can be planned not simply to be disease-free but to maximize health. This paper outlines briefly how the living environment can affect health. A total of 150 respondents between 15-44 years of age were studied. To find out the existing level of personal sanitation status of the slums a questionnaire cum interview schedule was prepared. Majority of the respondents were illiterate and were engaged in labour services with a monthly income below Rs. 5000/-. Most of the families were having inadequate house and public facilities like water availability, private toilets, dustbins and mosquito eradication measures. The care taken in case of their personal hygiene habits like health and food sanitation, sanitation of pets and frequency of cleaning surroundingws was also reported to be low. The obtained results depict that access to safe and regulat water supplyl; sanitation and personal hygiene were low. However the frequency of disease prevalence reduced with an increase in concern for personal and environmental sanitation.

4 illus, 10 ref

009285   Suruchi Singh;Mishra S;Rima Kumari;Agrawal S B (Ecology Research Circle, Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: sbagrawal56@gmail.com) : Response of ultraviolet-B and nickel on pigments, metabolites and antioxidants of Pisum sativum L.. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 677-84.

Ultraviolet radiation (UV) though harmful but is an important and unavoidable component of terrestrial ecosystem to which plants have been exposed since their migration from aquatic to land habitat. Incoming UV-B radiation and heavy metals abundance in contaminated soils are significant environmental threat affecting metabolic functions of plants through generation of reactive oxygen species. Plants have evolved mechanisms to counteract these reactive radicals and to repair the damage caused by UV-B and heavy metals. This study describes the impact of supplemental UV-B (sUV-B) and nickel (Ml) singly and in combination on photosynthetic pigments, flavonoids, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, metabolites and lipid peroxidation of Pisum sativum L (pea) plants. Compared to the controls, both the stresses individually and in combination led to reductions in photosynthetic pigments, ascorbic acid, protein and catalase (CAT) activity, whereas a reverse trend was observed for flavonoids, phenol, proline and thiol contents, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and pemxidase (POX) activities and lipidperoxidation(LPO). However, flavonoids increased significantly under individual exposure of sUV-B as compared to other treatments. An increase of LPO by 81% indicated the generation of reactive oxygen species under both the stress conditions. sUV-B and Ni in combination acted synergistically with stimulation of CAT activity by 51.6%, additively on SOD activity with increase of 16.4%, while other parameters showed antagonistic action of both the stresses.

4 illus, 2 tables, 65 ref

009284   Sisodia S;Singh B N (Genetics Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bnsingh@bhu.ac.in) : Variations in morphological and life-history traits under extreme temperatures in Drosophila ananassae. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 263-74.

Using half-sib analysis, we analysed the consequences of extreme rearing temperatures on genetic and phenotypic variations in the morphological and life-history traits of Drosophila ananassae. Paternal half-sib covariance contains a relatively small proportion of the epistatic variance and lacks the dominance variance and variance due to maternal effect, which provides more reliable estimates of additive genetic variance. Experiments were performed on a mass culture population of D. ananassae collected from Kanniyakumari (India). Two extremely stressful temperatures (18°C and 32°C) and one standard temperature (25°C) were used to examine the effect of stressful and non-stressful environments on the morphological and life-history traits in males and females. Mean values of various morphological traits differed significantly among different temperature regimens in both males and females. Rearing at 18°C and 32°C resulted in decreased thorax length, wing-to-thorax (w/t) ratio, sternopleural bristle number, ovariole number, sex comb-tooth number and testis length. Phenotypic variances increased under stressful temperatures in comparison with non-stressful temperatures. Heritability and evolvability based on among-sires (males), among-dams (females), and the sum of the two components (sire + dam) showed higher values at both the stressful temperatures than at the non-stressful temperature. These differences reflect changes in additive genetic variance. Viability was greater at the high than the low extreme temperature. As viability is an indicator of stress, can assume that stress was greater at 18°C than at 32°C in D. ananassae. The genetic variations for all the quantitative and life-history traits were higher at low temperature. Variation in sexual traits was more pronounced as compared with other morphometric traits, which shows that sexual traits are more prone to thermal stress. Our results agree with the hypothesis that genetic variation is increased in stressful environments.

3 illus, 6 tables, 53 ref

009283   Shrivastava R;Chauhan U K;Sarkar R; Chatterjee A (School of Biotechnology, Chemical and Biomedical Engg. VIT Univ, Vellore-632 014, Email: raj_success123@yahoo.com) : Observation on the reaction rate kinetics in cellulosic paper waste. Icfai Univ J Sci Technol 2009, 8(7), 21-5.

Experimental studies were conducted to study the efficacy of the particulate size and addition of organic manure along with bacterial fungal cultures to achieve time reduction in period of composting. Shredded paper and paper pulp cellulosic waste materials which form bulk of urban solid wastes' were used for purpose of biodegradation and subsequent composting. The control cow dung and M₃ culture inoculated lots were setup. Parameters of the biodegradation reaction rates have been considered hitherto as parameters to monitor the fluctuating values of BOD and C/N. The authors feel this usage is not prudent and instead suggest the direct computation of reaction rates or 'K' values by graphical evaluation method. The results recorded have shown the great utility of cow dung inoculation which has increased the reaction rates at least three times. Reduction of % BOD values from 41. 82 to 20.79 occurred during 32 day experimental period achieving faster reaction rates of 0.048. The M₃ inoculated lot has attained not only a higher reaction rate and BOD percentage, reduction rate but also have shown great reduction in organic carbon content from 470 mg/g to 101.5 mg/g. This observation suggest that the identification and utilization of M₃ culture as potent inoculums for extremely rapid degradation of cellulosic waste which create hazards in the rayon, pulp industry etc. due to their extremely slow biodegradation rates. Further studied in this direction are suggested for designing special treatment plants to achieve these objectives.

6 tables, 14 ref

009282   Shashi;Singh J;Dwivedi A K (Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Complexes, Chemistry Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous, Post Graduate College, Varanasi-221 002, Email: anil_k_dwiwedi@yahoo.co.in) : Numerical interdependence in ph, acidity and alkalinity of a polluted river water. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 773-5.

Acidity and alkalinity are independent parameters and they directly or indirectly regulate the pH of a medium. These are the prime factors which control the nature of the reactions in a medium. The present study was designed to explore the numerical interdependence of the three parameters and also, to develop the regression models. For physico-chemical analysis of the selected parameters, water quality of a polluted tropical river was analysed fortnightly, for complete one year. Correlation coefficients between pH-acidity and acidity-alkalinity were negative while that between pH and alkalinity were positive. The value calculated by the developed multiple regression models, explain pH, acidity and alkalinity up to 57, 65 and 79% respectively, suggesting their utility and relevance.

3 tables, 12 ref

009281   Shanthi V;Borgia V J F;Saranya N;Logalakshmi G (PG and Research Dep of Zoology, Jayaraj Annapackiarn College for Women, Periyakulam-625 601) : Effects of mercury on biochemical parameters of the freshwater teleost Labeo rohita and Catla catla. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 117-20.

Teleost fish Labeo rohita and Catla catla were exposed to heavy metal mercury and toxic effects were analysed. The LC₅₀ 96 hrs values 0.6 ppm in Labeo and 0.2 ppm in Catla were estimated and various sublethal concentrations like 0.05, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2 ppm were selected. The depletion of biochemical parameters in muscle, liver and kidney were observed in the sublethal concentrations on 7th, 14th and 21st days exposure. The high level depletion of biochemical constituents were noticed in Catla than Labeo when treated with mercuric II Chloride (Merck).

3 tables, 17 ref

009280   Shaji C;Nimi H;Bindu L (Botany Dep, Sree Narayana College, Quilon, Kerala-691 001, Email: shajchellappan@gmail.com ) : Water quality assessment of open wells in and around Chavara industrial area, Quilon, Kerala. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 701-4.

Water quality of four open wells representing four localities around the Kerala Minerals and Metals Ltd industrial area, Chavara, Quilon district was studied for a period of six months from December, 2006 to May 2007 to assess the suitability of the well waters for domestic purposes. The well waters exhibited high BOD (average values from 12.87-15.96 mg l^-1), COD (666.67-796.67 mg l^-1), TDS (500-1466.67 mgl^-1), total hardness (110-835mg l^-1), nitrate (1.12-4.97mg l^-1), calcium (30.59-271.22 mg l^-1), phosphate (0.19-0.48 mg l^-1) and free CO₂ (49.13-102.47 mg l^-1) and low dissolved oxygen (2.63-3.13 mg l^-1). Heavy metal analysis revealed that the third and fourth wells are free from heavy metal pollution. Coliform test showed bacterial contamination in all the wells. The values of BOD, COD, TDS and phosphate exceeded the maximum permissible limits and the dissolved oxygen was much lower than the desirable limit in all the well waters, Hence all the four well waters are found unsuitable for domestic purposes as it is confirmed by water quality index. The use of waters of open wells in and around the industrial area may cause health hazards to nearby inhabitants.

3 tables, 28 ref

009279   Satyawali Y;Pant D;Anoop Singh;Srivastava R K (Environmental Sciences Dep, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: apsinghenv@gmail.com) : Treatment of rayon grade pulp drain effluent by upflow anaerobic fixed packed bed reactor (UAFPBR). J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 667-72.

Rayon grade pulp (RGP) drain effluent of pulp and paper mill was studied to find out pollutant loading and its control measures by low cost and efficient treatment method. Upflow anaerobic fixed packed bed reactor (UAFPBR) with brick ballasts as packing material was used for this purpose. This was compared with conventional anaerobic treatment method. The digested slurry was taken as inoculum from the active cow dung biogas plant. After stabilization of the reactors the reduction in pollutant loading was found to be higher in UAFPBR than conventional anaerobic reactor (CAR). Hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 12 hr was optimum for the treatment of effluent when 74.5% COD and 81% BOD reduction was obtained. 30% inoculum concentration was best for the anaerobic treatment of RGP colour drain effluent. The maximum biogas production (1.37 IF of effluent) was when the effluent was inoculated with 30% seeding material. Thus, UAFPBR system was very efficient in terms of BOD, COD, TSS and TDS removal from RGP drain of paper mills in ambient environmental conditions.

5 illus, 28 ref

009278   Saritha V;Avasn Maruthi Y;Mukkanti K (Environmental Studies Dep, GITAM Institute of Sci, GITAM Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 045, Email: vsjr08@gmail.com) : Potential of soil and marine fungi for biodegradation of dairy wastewater. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 90-94.

Two fungi (unidentified) were isolated from soil and marine environments. These isolates were used for bioremediation of dairy wastewaters at laboratory scale. The treatment resulted in the reduction of COD of the effluent in the order of 78.75%.75% 60%21 days; other parameters like BOD, nitrates, phosphates, phenols have also shown significant reduction. A major part of reductions in these parameters occurred within 7 days of the treatment, which was also characterized by a steep decline in the pH of the effluent. During this period, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity and salinity of the effluent also registered marked decline.

5 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

009277   Saha S;Ray M;Ray S (Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: raysnailmail@rediffmail.com) : Activity of phosphatases in the hemocytes of estuarine edible mudcrab, Scylla serrata exposed to arsenic. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 655-8.

Sundarbans biosphere reserve is an ecologically important area of West Bengal, which supports a wide variety of estuarine species including Scylla serrata estuarine mudcrab of economic value. In this present study, activity of phosphatases (acid and alkaline) of hemocytes was estimated under the sublethal exposure of arsenic in controlled static water environment for 1,2,3,4,7 and 15 days of exposure. Exposure to 3 ppm of sodium arsenite for 15 days, resulted a maximum inhibition of activity of acid phosphatase (ACP) as 0.016 μM mg^{-1 protein min-1 with intermediate activity in different spans of exposure against the control value of 1.83 μM mg-1 protein min-'. Similar mode of maximum inhibition of activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was recorded as 0.008 μM mg-1 protein min-1, when the crabs were exposed to 3 ppm of sodium arsenite for 15 days against the control value of 0.694 μW mg-1 protein min-1. Exposure to 1 ppm of sodium arsenite caused inhibition of activity of ACP which ranged from 1.76 to 0.70 μM mg-1 protein min-1. For 2 and 3 ppm of exposure activity of ACP ranged from 1.12 to 0.42 and 0.67 to 0.016 μM mg-1 protein min-1 respectively. For the activity of ALP exposure to 2 and 3 ppm of sodium arsenite yielded an inhibition of activity which ranged from 0.472 to 0.279 and 0.275 to 0.008 μM mg-1 protein min-1 respectively. Arsenic exposure resulted a dose dependent decrease in the activities of both of the phosphatases and may be considered as a suitable biomarker of aquatic pollution in Sundarbans mangrove.}

2 illus, 28 ref

009276   Rayaz K (Geography Dep, Govt. P. G. College, Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir-185 212, Email: rayazgeography@rediffmai.com) : Assessment of anthropogenic activities and their impact on fish resources of Rajouri district, J & K, India. Aquacult 2009, 10(1), 27-32.

Anthropogenic activities are largely responsible for the deterioration of environmental quality and quantity to a large extent. The increase in human activities has not even left independent and innocent fishes in the area under scrutiny. Present investigation seeks to identify the human activities and their impact on fish resources. The study established the fact that the percentage of illegal fishing cases ranged between 12.9 percent dynamiting and electrocuting in Budhal to 25.5 percent silt creation in the same tehsil Further, the numbers of illegal fishing cases has increased to 332.6 percent during the course of present assessment Moreover, continuous increase in illegal fishing has badly affected the fish resources in the area which leads to extinction of important fishes like mahseers and trouts.

2 tables, 10 ref

009275   Ravikumar S;Jacob Inbaneson S;Seshserebiah J (Oceanography and Coastal Area Studies Dep, School of Marine Sciences, Alagappa Univ, Thondi Campus, Thondi-623 409, Email: ravibiotech201320@yahoo.com) : Cadmium induced effect on growth and physiology in halophilic phosphobacteria. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 673-6.

Chosen phosphobacterial species are well tolerated to the wide range of salinity (20-40 ppt) and found to be pure marine forms. Effect of different concentrations of cadmium on the growth, phosphate solubilising activity and content of extracellular macromolecules in eight species of phosphate solubilising bacteria were carried-out in the present study at optimum level of salinity and found that these activities are found maximum at lower concentrations of cadmium and further reduction in the activities were noticed at higher concentrations. The maximum content of tolal sugar was noticed in S. aureus at 1 ppm level of cadmium. The content of protein was found maximum in B. megaterium and M. roseus without the addition of cadmium and also the phosphate solubilizing activity was found higher in all the chosen phosphobacterial strains with the addition of cadmium.

2 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

009274   Raja Sekhar P S;Sunita P (Environmental Sciences Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Observations on food and feeding habits of olive ridley sea turtle hatchlings (Lepidochelys olivacea) in captivity. Aquacult 2009, 10(1), 33-6.

Olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) sea turtle is widely distributed in the coastal waters of Indian Ocean and its bay Islands. It is an endangered species included in Schedule -I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. In recent times the breeding population is gradually Olive ridley turtle is indeclining trend due to various threatening factors. Hence captive rearing of sea turtle hatehlings has been assumed greater importance as part of conservation programs. A total of 36 hatclilings were collected from naturally hatched nests of Olive ridleys at Visakliapatnam beaches for captive rearing and were tested with four kinds of marine food items to study the food and feeding behavior. Newly born hatehlings did not show any feeding activity until to reach seven days old. From eighth day onwards they attempt on marine algae (Gracilaria corticata and Ulva fasciata). After one month old they preferred mollusc species (Chiton sp. and Cellana radiatd). One year old they feed on crustaceans (Penaeus indicus and Scylla serrata) and marine fishes (Sardinella longiceps and Liza dussumieria). Food consumption has been gradually increased from 20 gm/day of one month old hatehlings to 250 gm/day of 12months old yearlings. In overall preference the mollusc group stood in first category (42.00%); followed by marine fish (30.00%); crustaceans (22.00%), and marine algae (6.00%) respectively.

1 illus, 1 tables, 5 ref

009273   Pranitha V;Suvarna B;Singara Charya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Remediation of tannery effluents by aquatic macrophytes. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 185-8.

Five aquatic macrophytes viz., Hydrilla, Pistia, Chara, Eichnornia and Ipomea were tried for phytoremediation of tannery industrial effluents in miniponds. The physico-chemical parameters like pH, chlorides, carbonates, bicarbonates, total hardness, dissolved oxygen, calcium and magnesium were analysed in the miniponds during 30 days of incubation with these five macrophytes. The chloride concentration increased with incubation time while carbonates increased substantially (40 ppm) in the minipond with Ipomea plants. The highest amount of dissolved oxygen (5.8 mg/L) was recorded in control pond on 30 days of incubation time. Calcium content was maximum (52.10 mg/l) in the minipond floated with Ipomea plants and these can be successfully used as biological tools for remediation of tannery effluents.

1 table, 16 ref

009272   Pranitha V;Kalyani Y;Singara Charya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Nygaard's and Palmer's indices for biomonitoring of water quality in Bhadrakali lake, Warangal, Andhra Pradesh. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 1-6.

Bio-monitoring of Bhadrakali lake, Warangal, was undertaken for assessment of water quality using Nygaard's and Palmer's algal indices at four sites during October 2005 to September 2006. In Nygaard's algal index, myxophyceace, chlorophyceae, euglenophyceae and compound indices were monitored. The rnyxophyceae index showed fluctuation from 0.05 to 1.54 with highest values at the Site - I. The highest Palmer's index value was noticed at theSsite - IV in January 2006. The two algal indices can be effectively employed for long term conservation and sustainability of the historical water body.

2 tables, 32 ref

009271   Pawde S M;Parab S S (Physics Dep, Univ Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai-400 019, Email: smpawde@udct.org) : Spectroscopic and antimicrobial studies of polystyrene films under air plasma and He-Ne laser treatment. Pramana J Phys 2008, 70(5), 935-48.

Polystyrene (PS) films are used in packaging and biomedical applications because of their transparency and good environmental properties. The present investigation is centered on the antifungal and antibacterial activities involved in the film surface. Subsequently, microbial formations were immobilized on the modified PS films. Living microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast were used. Untreated PS films show very fast rate of growth of bacteria within few hours. The study involves developments of polymer surfaces with bacterial growth and further studies after giving antibacterial treatment such as plasma treatment. Major emphasis has been given to study the effect of various parameters which can affect the performance of the improved material. Films were prepared by two methods: plasma treatment under vacuum and under ongoing He-Ne laser source. The parameters such as (1) surface area by contact angle measurements, (2) quality of material before and after treatment by SEM and FTIR spectra and (3) material characterization by UV-vis spectra were studied. It was observed that plasma treatment of the PS material for different processing time improved the surface properties of PS films.

9 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

009270   Pawar V B;Khobragade K (NO, , Jamuna Anand Nagar, Dnyaneshwar School Road, East of Hutatma Smarak, Jintur-431 509, Email: vbpawar08@rediffmail.com) : Physico-chemical characteristics of sugar factory effulients. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 99-103.

Results of a study on characteristics of waste water generated by the Purna Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana (Purna Sugar Cooperative Factory) in Maharashtra state have been given. The factory is situated 6 km away from Basmathnagar, a township in Hingoli district, Maharashtra The study conducted during the year 2007-2008 has revealed that most of the Physico-Chemical parameters such as pH, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (T.D.S.), Total alkalinity, Phosphate, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (B.O.D.), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Sulphate have exceed the ISI limits and there is a need of recycling organically rich waste from such sources.

1 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

009269   Patil B H (Center for P.G. Res in Cgen, G.T.P. Coll, Nandurbar-425 412) : Detection and identification of organics present in industrial waste amended soils by FTIR and GC-MS techniques. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(1-2), 30-2.

The industrial waste amended soil samples from coastal area of Surat (Gujarat) were collected. The samples were extracted in CH₂Cl₂ and recorded for FTIR and GC-MS. Several organic compounds have been found and these compound ultimately affect the soil and water quality of the area.

3 tables, 9 ref

009268   Pare S;Savadogo P;Tigabu M;Oden P C;Ouadba J M (Swedish Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Forest Sciences, , Southern Swedish, Forest Research Centre, Tropical Silviculture and Seed Laboratory, PO Box 44, SE-23053, Alnarp, Sweden, Email: Souleymane.Pare@genfys.slu.se) : Regeneration and spatial distribution of seedling populations in Sudanian Dry Forests in relation to conservation status and human pressure. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 339-53.

Effects of conservation status and human population pressure on species composition, density and spatial distribution of seedling populations in Sudanian dry forests of Burkina Faso were studied. Data were collected from protected and unprotected forests at two sites differing in human population densities. A total of 62 species were recorded, representing 23 families and 48 genera, and the dominant families were Combretaceae and Caesalpiniaceae. Population pressure influenced significantly the species richness, but not conservation status. There were moderately significant differences in seedling densities between protected and unprotected forests at each site. The mature-juvenile relationships were generally weak in all cases (r^{2 < 50%). The spatial distribution of the seedlings was mainly clumped, reflecting the dominance of clonal propagation. The protection provided by the present conservation status was inefficient in promoting regeneration. As most species have few seedlings, expediting the natural regeneration process inside and outside the forest reserve is recommended.}

4 illus, 3 tables, 59 ref

009267   Pandey S N (Botany Dep, Univ of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, Email: snpandey511@gmail.com) : Growth and biochemical changes in pulse seedlings irrigated with effluent from electroplating industry. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 79-82.

Effluents from electroplating industry were analyzed. Glasshouse experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of effluent on growth and bio-chemical parameters. Effluent contained suspended organic and inorganic solids, toxic chemicals and heavy metals (Zn 2.25, Ni 0.79, Cr 0.074 and Cd 0.019 mgl^{-1). It induced phytotoxjcity, suppressed seed germination and seedling growth. In Cajanus cajan (var. bahar) decrease in seed germination (25%), plumule length (36.8%) and dry weight (12.7%) were observed. In Phaseo/us aureus, reduction in radicle length (26.5%), plumule length (23.4%) and dry weight (45.8%) were observed when treated with effluent from electroplating industry. The inhibition in amylase activity and protein content in test plants were also observed when grown in effluent. Toxicity was reduced at 50% dilution effluent.}

1 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

009266   Pahalawattaarachchi V;Purushothaman S C; Vennila A (Aquatic Environmental Management Div, Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai-400 061, Email: vasa_lanka@yahoo.com) : Metal phytoremediation potential of Rhizophora mucronata (Lam.). Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 178-83.

Study consist the absorption, accumulation and partitioning of eight metals in order to find out the phytoremediation potential of the mangrove species Rhizophora mucronata (Lam.) in Alibag, Maharashtra, India. The concentrations of Cu, Cd, Ni, Mn, Cr, Zn, Fe and Pb in the sediments of the mangrove area were determined to be 92.59, 5.31, 63.29, 1020.00, 545.00, 78.18,68164.26 and 19.51 ppm, respectively on dry weight basis. Metal concentrations were different in specific parts of the plant, and the highest concentration (in ppm on dry weight basis) of each metal was found in the following pattern: leaves for Ni (1.74 ± 0.58) and Cr (16.78 ± 7.06; senescent leaves for Zn (6.29 ± 0.80); bark for Cd (1.34 ± 0.04) and Pb (7.35 ± 0.45), and roots for Fe (1236.69 ± 754.69) and Mn (618.31 ± 186.08). There were different translocation rates for each metal from root to shoots. The translocation ratios of Cd, Cr and Pb (1.53, 1.66 and 1.08, respectively) exceeded one in the case of senescent leaves, as these metals were being accumulated in leaves before falling off and thus eliminated. The trend of the phytostabilization capacity of R. mucronata in the Alibag mangrove ecosystem is confined to only the highly abundant metals in nature and the phytoremediation capacity of R. mucronata varies from metal to metal.

2 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

009265   Ozkan K (Soil and Ecology Dep, Suleyman Demirel Univ, Isparta-32260, Turkey, Email: kursadozkan@gmail.com) : Environmental factors as influencing vegetation communities in Acipayam district of Turkey. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 741-6.

Data set from Mediterranean mountain forests of southern Anatolia, consisting of species cover and environmental measures in 99 sample plots was analyzed with cluster analysis, indicator species analysis, MRPP, NMDS and sperman rank correlation. Results illustrated two vegetation gradients related to factor complexes of'altitude-landform and parent material-land surface smoothness. Axis I of the ordination was strongly related to limestone, serpantine, conglomerate, marl from parent material group, middle slope from slope position group, concave, convex, linearandundulatefromlandformgroup,AI,AII,AlllandAIVfromaltitudegroup, and rocky and erosion pavement from land surface smoothness group. Axis II was strongly related to limestone, serpantine, smooth surface, rocky surface and A III.

3 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

009264   Ozcelik R (Faculty of Forestry, Suleyman Demirel Univ, Cunur-32260, Isparta, Turkey, Email: ramazan@orman.sdu.edu.tr) : Tree species diversity of natural mixed stands in eastern black sea and western mediterranean region of Turkey. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 761-6.

Differences in tree species diversity of natural mixed stands were compared between the eastern Black sea region (EBSR) and western Mediterranean region (WMR) of Turkey, to clarify the effects of differences in forest structure, focusing on the tree species occurring in each. Species diversity, with special reference to stand structure, of natural mixed stands was quantified by Shannon-Wiener index (H'), equitability index (J'), and species richness index (R). All species diversity indices were significantly higher in EBSR than in WMR. According to the coefficients of homogeneity (CH), stands in EBSR are generally have uneven-aged stand structure, but in WMR even-aged stand structure is more common. Uneven-aged stands have more tree species diversity than even-aged forests due to complex vertical forest structure and species composition. According to Pearson's coefficients, species diversity indices and richness are closely related the average stand diameter (Ds) in uneven-aged stands of EBSR, but average-stand diameter (Ds), age (A), and stand density (SDI) are the most important stand parameters in even-aged stands of WMR in Turkey.

1 illus, 4 tables, 51 ref

009263   Ojha V K;Birendra Kumar (P.G. Chem Dep, D.S. Coll, Katihar-854 105, Email: Ojhavk11@Rediffmail.com) : Water quality assessment with special reference to physical characteristics of Ganga river water from Manihari to Barari, district Katihar. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(1-2), 41-3.

Ganga is the life line of India. From Himalaya to the Bay of Bengal in the Indian ocean, it is all pervading panacea of one third of Indian population. It is however need less to say that the holy river Ganga is full of pollution. Pollutaints from several sources such as municipal wastes, industrial pollution, funeral wastes, dhobighat and several other sources, deteriorates its water quality. The study deals with analysis of water quality of the river Ganga from Manihari to Barari. Manihari is a sub divisional town 22 km from Kaithar and Barari is 40km from Manihari due sourth this study covers 1050.00km<6>2 catchments area. This area is known for agriculture, flood and makhana cultivation.

2 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

009262   Munish Kumar;Tewari S;Sharma P;Verma V K; Chauhan K S;Agarwal S K;Dwivedi U N;Goel S K (Petroleum Toxicology Div, Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow-226 001, Email: sudhirg2k2@rediffmail.com) : Genetic polymorphism in solvent exposed population and its correlation to in vitro effect of trichloroethylene on lymphocytes. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 685-91.

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is major industrial pollutant that contaminate environment. Its exposure may lead to hepato-renal toxicity along with the cancer progression. Although extensive research is done on its toxicity, still not much is known about its genotoxic potential on humans in relation to genetic polymorphism. Cytochrome P450 (CYP P-450) and glutathione-S-transferases (GS Ts) are important in cellular detoxification of TCE, Variations in gene sequences result in population specific regional genetic variations (polymorphism). Genotyping of CYPIA 1, GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1 polymorphism was performed in 220 normal and 97 solvent-exposed individuals from northern part of India using real time PCR, PCR and restriction digestion techniques. The parameters examined to study genotoxicity were chromosomal aberration (CA) and cytokinesis block micronudeus assay (CBMN) in lymphocyte culture in vitro. The observed average frequencies for GSTM1 (null) and GSTT1 (null) were 41,22 and 12.7%, respectively in normal subjects whereas frequencies of CYP1A1/GSTP1 with (ilefile) or (ile/val) or (val/val) were found to be 76.2/52,21.4/42.1 and 2.4/5.9% respectively. It was further observed that the frequencies of above genes were found to be similar in solvent exposed groups. The distribution frequencies of GST genes, when compared with other reports from various regions of India show variations. In vitro TCE exposure (2, 4 and or 6 mM) did not show any significant genotoxic effect. TCE may be toxic due to its metabolite.

4 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

009261   Mumtazuddin S;Azad A K;Manoj Kumar;Gautam A K (Chem Dep, B.R.A Bihar Univ, Muzaffarpur-842 001) : Determination of physico-chemical parameters in some groundwater samples at Muzaffarpur town. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(1-2), 18-20.

Investigation was carried out to determine the physico-chemical parameters of bored tube well water samples at different sites of Muzaffarpur Town. The parameters such as pH, conductivity, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), total alkalinity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, chloride and chemical oxygen demand (COD) have been studies. The physico-chemical properties revealed that the ground water quality in Muzaffarpur town is generally within the maximum permissible limit of WHO and hence safe for domestic and irrigation purpose.

3 tables, 8 ref

009260   Meena S;Senthil P;Vadivel A (Radioisotipe (Tracer) Laboratory, Soil Science and Agricultural Chemsitry Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural U, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: meenus_69@yahoo.com) : Vertical migration of Caesium-137 in a typic Haplustalf as influenced by chemical extractants. J Nucl Agric Biol 2009, 37(1-2), 39-44.

Column studies conducted to study the vertical migration of caesium-137 (^{137Cs) in a Typic Haplustalf showed that nearly 90% of the applied activity was retained on the top 0-5 cm layer. Of the different chemical extractants tried 0.5 M ammonium chloride eluted more quantity of 137Cs into the soil solution. Soils with low potassium content retained more quantity of 137Cs when compared with soil with high potassium content.}

2 tables, 11 ref

009259   Manoranjini Kiran C;Johnson M E C (Limnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Osmania Univ College for Women, Koti, Hyderabad-500 195, Email: dr.mecjohnson@gmail.com) : Nitrates in the ground water of Patancheru industrial area, Medak dist. Andhra Pradesh, India. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 91-4.

Ground water samples (bore wells) used as drinking water in Patancheru and Ramachandrapuram Industrial Areas near Hyderabad, were analysed for Nitrite, Nitrate & Phosphates for a period of two years (September 1997 to August 1999). The Nitrite & Phosphate levels were found to be in traces. The nitrate level ranged from 12.40 mg/l to 55.89 mg/l with an average value of 36.55 in Station - I samples while in Station - II the values ranged from 14.88 mg/l to 52.09 mg/l with an average value of 34.68 mg/l. The quality of the samples were assessed with drinking water standards by WHO (1984) & BIS (1983), as the ground water is used for drinking purpose. The samples of the two stations were found to be beyond the drinking water standard of WHO Seasonal variations recorded during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon are 33.48 mg/l to 41.17 mg/l in Station I & 34.19 mg/l to 39.77 mg/l in Station II. The increase observed in nitrate concentration during the post monsoon is attributed to the leaching from the soil. In the two years of analysis, it was noticed that the nitrate levels in the ground water increased in the second year indicating the increasing pollution of the ground water day by day.

5 tables, 12 ref

009258   Mahesh V;Sarathi V (NO, , 9-93, Muthu pillai street, Kokkeri Po. Ammapettai, Thanjavur Dt, Email: mahesh_23343@yahoo.com) : Influence of sugar mill waste water on growth of Rhizobium. Icfai Univ J Sci Technol 2009, 8(8), 32-3.

An investigation was carried out to study the influence of sugar mill effluent on growth of Rhizobium. For this study Azorhizobium was isolated from the sugar mill effluent polluted soil root nodules of Subanioa rostrata study sites.Apot trail was conducted to know the impact of sugar mill effluent on growth and nodulation of rhizobium. Nodule number, dry weight, total proten amino acid lipids and protease content s were reduced in effluent treated pots then untreated one.

2 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

009257   Laxmi Prasad K;Vasumathi Reddy K;Swamy M; Ravinder Reddy T (Zoology Dep, Lal Bahadur College, Warangal-506 009) : Impact of heavy metals (Zinc and Cadmium) on some dehydrogenase enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism of a fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamark). J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 128-30.

Effect of Sublethal concentration of Zinc and Cadmium on some enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism in foot, mantle and gill of a fresh water mussel, Lamellideus marginalis (L) was studied. The activities ofLDH, SDH and MDH showed a decrease in all the tissues of the mussels exposed to zinc and cadmium. The enzyme activities were decreased more in zinc than compared to cadmium. The decrease in all these three enzymes indicates that the overall aerobic metabolism is shifted towards the anaerobic type of metabolism.

1 table, 14 ref

009256   Laxmi Prasad K;Vasumathi Reddy K; Satyaparameshwar K;Ravinder Reddy T (Zoology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Toxic effects of an organo chloride pesticide, confidar on the protein metabolism of a fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (L.). J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 150-2.

Sub-lethal toxicity of organochloride pesticide confidar(0.35ppm) on the protein metabolism was studied in the selected tissues of a fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis(L). Levels of total proteins and RNA contents showed a decrease, activities of proteases free aminoacids ALAT, AAT and GDH were increased in all the tissues studied. This shows that proteins are degraded and amino acids are released and these released aminoacids enter into TCA cycle to produce the energy to counteract toxic impact.

1 table, 15 ref