Archives Issues
Volume 12, Issue No 2, Jun 2013
Kinetic Model and Ecological Dose Values for the Inhibition of Effects of Cd2+ and Hg2+ on Soil Enzymes
Effects of Hg2+ and Cd2+ on the activities of urease, invertase and amylase in different periods and concentration were studied by indoor soil cultivating method. Results showed that the activities of soil urease, invertase, and amylase by heavy metals were inhibited markedly, but this inhibitory effect differed among enzymes. During the treatment of 45 days, the activities of urease, invertase and amylase were decreased with the increase of the concentrations of Hg2+. There were significant logarithmic correlations between the concentration of heavy metals and the inhibition ratios of the activities of these three enzymes (r2 > 0.902). The inhibitory effect was also characterized in the term of ecological dose value (ED50). It indicated that urease activity was more sensitive than the other two enzymes to heavy metals contamination. So, urease activity may be a suitable early warning index to be used in the characterization the soil pollution condition of heavy metals.
Jinlong Yan and Guixiang Quan
Effect of Vegetation Cover Types on Soil Infiltration Under Simulating Rainfall
In this study, simulated rainfall was applied to study the process of runoff generation and water infiltration under the cover of herbaceous vegetation at the preliminary succession stages. Results indicated that at the preliminary succession stages, as soil texture was loose, water infiltration was high. With the vegetation succession and the accumulation of organic matter in the soil, both physical and chemical properties of the soil were improved, which made the soil texture tight, and water infiltration rates decrease. With the progress of the rainfall, parts of the microbiotic soil crust were destroyed by raindrop impact, and water infiltration rates were improved. This result indicated that the existence of microbiotic soil crust reduced the soil infiltration rate. Thus, it is of great importance to improve soil infiltration by destroying the microbiotic soil crust with proper measures such as grazing in arid and semi-arid areas.
Huang Pingping, Sha Xue, Peng Li and Li Zhanbin
Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaf Powder: A Plant-Based Adsorbent for Removal of Textile Acid Azo Dye from Aqueous Solution
A plant-based adsorbent was prepared from Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf and adsorption of two textile acid azo dyes, Acid Red 18 and Acid Orange 7, from aqueous solution was examined. Batch adsorption test showed that extent of dye adsorption depended on contact time, pH and adsorbent dose. Equilibrium adsorption was attained in 5 h and maximum adsorption occurred at pH 2. Dye adsorption followed pseudo second-order kinetics. Equilibrium adsorption data were described by the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models. Acid dye adsorption capacity of the Neem leaf powder was compared with that of other plant-based adsorbents and activated carbons. Neem leaf powder is effective in adsorptive removal of acid dyes from aqueous solution and textile dye waste.
Malay Chaudhuri and Chan Xuan Hui
Whole Soil Sampling to Compare Carbon Sequestration Under Perennial Pastures of Western Australia
Changing from annual to perennial pastures may be a key strategy for farmers to both adapt to, and help mitigate, climate. In this study organic carbon determined by Walkley and Black analysis of ‘whole soil’ samples (i.e., including roots) from annual and perennial pastures was used to determine the carbon stocks in the top 30 cm of soil. Samples were collected from old perennial pasture trial sites, and also from adjoining paired paddocks of annual and perennial pastures. Sequestration rates were calculated as the increase in carbon stocks of the perennials above the traditional annuals, averaged over the number of years since the perennials were sown. The results indicate that denser perennial pastures can sequester in the range of 5 to 10 t CO2e /ha/year. We hypothesise that the flux rates from particulate organic matter to the humus pool currently used for annuals in RothC may be too low for perennial pastures. These results are particularly encouraging as (a) all but one of the sites was on coarse sandy soils, and (b) all of the years since the perennials were sown were below average rainfall.
Ahmed Hasson, Tim Wiley and George Woolston
Study on Bioactive Compounds Produced by Soil Origin Brevibacillus spp.
The purpose of this study was the evaluation of soil origin Brevibacillus for production of bioactive compounds. Nowadays bioactive compounds are considered the sources of new remedy in order to eliminate antibiotic-resistant bacteria. To perform the study, two strains of Brevibacillus with potent activity for production of bioactive compounds were isolated from 121 soil samples. Phenotypic and 16SrRNA sequencing identification of the isolates recognized them as Brevibacillus reuszeri (B12 bioactive compound producer) and Brevibacillus formosus (B22 bioactive compound producer). The bioactive compounds produced by the bacteria were partially purified and characterized based on their antimicrobial activities at various pHs and temperatures and proteinase K. Then, activity of the bioactive compounds was assessed against different pathogenic microorganisms. The results obtained indicated that activity of the compounds when treated with proteinase K was inhibited. The optimum pH for both the isolates was 7 and potent activity of the bioactive compound B12 was observed at 35°C while for B22 was at 40°C. Although, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcua aureus, E. coli and Salmonella typhi were sensitive, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and fungi (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger) were resistant to the both bioactive compounds. Therefore, Brevibacillus with potent activity for production of antimicrobial metabolites, and fast growth character may be considered as a good probiotic agent for commercial industries.
S. Seyed Gholizadeh, M. Baserisalehi and N. Bahador
Assessment of Water Quality Around Surface Coal Mine in India
The present study highlights techniques to identify suitability of water for different purposes such as domestic, irrigation and industrial uses. Water samples from Olidih watershed in Jharia coalfield were collected in pre-monsoon (PRM) and post-monsoon (POM) seasons and analysed for different physico-chemical properties. Water Quality Index (WQI), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), percent sodium (%Na) and total hardness (TH) were determined on the basis of various physico-chemical parameters in order to ascertain the suitability of water for domestic, irrigation and industrial uses. The WQI for the study area found to vary from 23.86 to 166.72 in PRM season and from 22.14 to 146.44 in POM season. In 16.3% and 11.4% of watershed area, water is found unfit for drinking during PRM and POM seasons respectively. The calculated values of SAR and %Na indicate ‘excellent to permissible use’ of water for irrigation uses during both the seasons. High salinity, %Na and Mg-hazard values at some sites limit use for irrigation purposes. Box plots were plotted to represent seasonal concentration of the major ions which shows increasing trend of Ca, Na, NO3 and SO4 during POM.
V. Shinde, S. B. Nandgude and M. Singh
Morphological and Physiological Responses of Lemna minor to Aniline
The ecotoxicological effects of aniline on Lemna minor have been evaluated based on both morphological and physiological responses in this paper. The results showed a significant inhibition to frond number and area, growth index, and biomass of L. minor. The contents of both chlorophyll a and b went down significantly after exposure to aniline. Aniline shows an acute toxic effect on the vegetative growth of L. minor and the effect is correlated with its concentration. Aniline might impact the growth of L. minor through destroying its photosynthesis. The activities of CAT, POD and SOD shown different responses to aniline at different times, but higher concentration of aniline and persistence would be more harmful to L. minor according to the changes of the activities of antioxidant enzymes. L. minor could be used as an indicator to monitor the existence of aniline in water bodies.
Guangjun Wen, Weirong Bai, Zhongshi Hao, Wei Xu and Huyin Huai
Heavy Metals in Sediments of Inland Water Bodies of India: A Review
In last few decades, due to the rapid increase in the population, industrialization and newer agricultural practices, the aquatic resources of India have been deteriorating. The pollution of aquatic ecosystems by heavy metals is of a great concern due to their persistence, toxicity and accumulative behaviour. The heavy metals can change the trophic status of aquatic ecosystems and make them unsuitable for various purposes. They also pose a serious threat to human health. This paper reviews the heavy metal contamination of sediments of Indian inland water bodies. It also discusses the possible sources of pollution. Different standards for sediment pollution which are in use have also been discussed. It showed that environmental degradation has become a major societal issue in India due to uncontrolled anthropogenic activities, besides natural factors. There is an urgent need of creating awareness amongst the public of these problems and find preventive and remedial solutions for management. Expensive high-tech remedial measures are not suitable for the country, and hence emphasis has to be given on prevention. Indigenous research towards mitigation and remediation has to be encouraged, keeping in mind India’s unique problems of poverty, crowding and malnutrition.
Neetu Malik and A. K. Biswas
Generation of Electricity from A Low Cost Microbial Fuel Cell
Using available resources, a dual chambered low cost microbial fuel cell was designed. Microbial fuel cell was tested for electricity production with microbial isolates like Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes using corn steep liquor as substrate. From the values recorded using a multimeter, it was observed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa was able to produce maximum electricity of I: 10.32 mA, V: 0.948 V, R: 91.88 W and P: 9.785 mW, at 45°C.
M. Ramalakshmi, S. Akila and S. D. Sharief
Application of Sample Entropy on Measuring Precipitation Series Complexity in Jiansanjiang Branch Bureau of China
In order to describe the complexity characteristics of precipitation series in Jiansanjiang Branch Bureau of China, the complexities of monthly average precipitation series were measured by the sample entropy method and the regional differences of precipitation resources system complexity in the farms belonging to Jiansanjiang Branch Bureau were analyzed by utilizing the visualization function of ArcGIS technology. The measure and analysis results show that the complexities of each monthly average precipitation have obvious regional differences in Jiansanjiang Branch Bureau. The monthly average precipitation series complexities in Farm Hongwei and Farm Bawujiu are the strongest; in Farm Daxing, Farm Chuangye, Farm Qianjin, Farm Qinglongshan, Farm Yalvhe, Farm Qianfeng and Farm Shengli are in the middle; and in Farm Qindeli, Farm Qixing, Farm Honghe, Farm Qianshao and Farm Erdaohe are the weakest. Sample entropy can reflect the dynamic change degree of precipitation series and has advantages like less data needing and is stable, which provide a new way to research hydrological series complexity. The research achievements reveal the complexity and its areal variation of local precipitation resources system, and screen boundary parameters for structuring water resources optimization allocation models, and provide scientific basis for rationally utilizing and developing precipitation resources in Jiansanjiang Branch Bureau and even in the whole Sanjiang Plain of China.
Liu Dong and Liu Meng
A Novel Application of Micro Electrolysis-Fenton Process on High-strength Acidic Dye Wastewater
A combined process, micro electrolysis-Fenton process was chosen as the pre-treatment performance of high-strength dyestuff wastewater. The software tool ANLYSIS CFX® was employed on simulation of the reactor. Meanwhile, comparative experiments were carried out and it was determined that the micro electrolysis-Fenton process was superior to the traditional one in terms of treatment effect. Optimal conditions were attained by experimental conditions changing. The results show that under optimal conditions, the BOD5/COD ratio could be increased from 0.08 to 0.46 and the COD removal rate could be more than 75%. This process was highly efficient in organic matter removal and biodegradability improving.
Zhanli Chen, Xiangrong Sun, Zhenzhong Liu, Xiaohua Huang, Rui Jia
Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Phytoplankton Diversity of Rajaram Reservoir, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India
The present investigation was undertaken to study the impact of anthropogenic activities such as Ganesh idol immersion and mattresses washing during the Navaratra festival on the phytoplankton diversity of Rajaram reservoir. The total number of phytoplankton recorded during this investigation is 120. Several of these algal species belong to the pollution tolerant genera. A few biological and diversity indices were also calculated, which indicate high level of pollution of the Rajaram reservoir. Therefore, it is an urgent need to conserve this reservoir for the future water resource.
Supriya Gaikwad, Sachin Patil and Meena Dongare
Water Environment Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Based on Improved Set Pair Analysis (SPA)
Set pair analysis (SPA) is a method for the application on analysis of risks and project decision evaluation. This method combines qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis. The previous SPA study only focused on three ranks evaluation. This paper presents an improved SPA method utilizing original relation degree malleability of SPA, and extends it to five ranks evaluation. The improved method can depict identity, discrepancy and contrary in more detail. In addition, this study combines fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to evaluate four main factors of surface water environment, instead of the discussion of i+, i–, j+, j– coefficient. It not only obtains evaluation result but also obtains probability distribution of each rank. In this paper, we apply the method to factual example and compare the results with synthesis index method, and gray associated analysis method. We conclude that the improved method can represent the true state of the object with extensive engineering application value.
Zhihong Zheng and Minghua Wei
Column Studies on Removal of Ag(I) from Electroplating Wastewater by Macrofungus Pleurotus platypus: Use of Modelling and Response Surface Methodology
acked bed column. The effect of operating parameters such as bed height, flow rate and initial metal concentration were investigated on removal of Ag(I) under optimized condition. The breakthrough curve profile signified that the breakthrough time and exhaustion time increased with an increase in bed height and a decrease in flow rate and initial metal concentration. The data were supported by 3D mesh diagrams and perturbation plots obtained from 2D factorial design. The column data were analysed using four models viz., BDST model, Emperical model, Thomas model and Yan model. The BDST model was found to be the best to fit the breakthrough curves at experimental conditions. The column was regenerated using 0.01 M HCl solution and sorption-desorption studies were carried out for three cycles. The obtained results implied that P. platypus may serve as suitable adsorbent material for the removal of Ag(I) from wastewater.
Devlina Das, Vimala R. and Nilanjana Das
The Effects of Yarrow’s (Achillea millefolium) Hydroalcoholic Extract on Blood Proteins in Mice
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) means thousands leaves plant and belongs to Asteraceae family. Yarrow is a perennial plant which grows in mountainous regions of Europe, North Africa and East Asia (including North Iran and Alborz heights). This plant has many health benefits like treating problems of digestive system, respiratory system, cardiovascular system (stimulating blood circulation and lowering blood pressure), and genital-urinary system. In this study, the effect of Yarrow extract was evaluated on immunity parameters of blood serum in little female laboratory rats (Balb/C race). At first, samples were divided randomly in five groups: three treatment groups, one control group and one placebo group. Each group had eight members and all groups were kept in similar conditions. Hydroalcoholic extract was prepared in three doses including 50,100 and 200 mg/kg and was injected in peritoneum every two days for twenty days. Normal saline was injected to placebo group. All measurements were done using protein electrophoresis method. Measured parameters were albumin amount, a-1 and a-2 globulin, b globulin, gamma globulin, albumin globulin ratio, and total protein. Results showed that the amount of albumin, b globulin and total protein were increased in all three doses. a-2 were decreased in all treatments and a-1 were increased in all three doses but this increase was significant for doses 100 and 200 mg. Albumin globulin ratio was increased also in all treatments but it was significant only for 50 mg. Gamma globulin amount was increased in 50 and 100 mg but decreased a little in 200 mg. Results of this study showed that Yarrow extract caused significant changes in blood immune parameters and can affect immune system of body even in absence of antigenic factors.
Mehrdad Modaresi and Delaram Dadkhah
Application of Entropy Weight TOPSIS Method for Optimization of Wastewater Treatment Technology of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
The paper aims to find out the best wastewater pollution control technology of high efficiency and low energy consumption in the Municipal wastewater treatment plants. The method of entropy weight TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) was used to build the estimate model for wastewater treatment technology of the plant. Choice of three municipal wastewater treatment plant processes is A/O, BIOLAK and A2/O. The close degree calculated by the entropy weight TOPSIS respectively is 0.4530, 0.4987 and 0.5176 in the treatment process suited for the municipal sewage treatment. The A2/O treatment process is the best, then is the A/O treatment and the worst is the BIOLAK treatment process. Entropy weight TOPSIS method, used in the assessment of the wastewater treatment technology is flexible, convenient, scientific and suitable for the assessment of sewage disposal technology.
Fu Jinxiang, Xie Lingwei, Ma Xingguan, Tang Jing, Zhang Rongxin, Bai Yuping, Tang Yulan and Gao Yunan
The Study of Particulate Matter Concentration in Schools of Lahore
Children spend a large part of their time in school. Air pollution due to high concentration of particulate matter in schools has a detrimental effect upon children and teachers health and achievement. This study was carried out to assess mass concentration of particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) in schools of Lahore, Pakistan, by using portable Tactical Air Sampler (MinivolTM TAS) and questionnaire survey during working days of the schools, in 5 northern (downtown area), and 5 southern (suburban) schools of Lahore, from November 2010 to June 2011. Mean concentration of PM10 in sampling schools of northern and southern Lahore was 1433.04 µg/m3 and 293.9µg/m3 respectively, while that of PM2.5 was 153.8 µg/m3 and 54.79ìg/m3 respectively. In both the areas, concentration of PM2.5 was minimum at 6a.m. and maximum at noon. Concentration of PM10 and PM2.5 was higher in winter than in summer, but was found to be lower on rainy days. In winter, northern and southern schools’ mean PM10 was 1507.15 µg/m3 and 314.5438 µg/m3, and PM2.5 was 169.1µg/m3 and 59.5 µg/m3. In summer, PM10 was 1365.4 µg/m3 and 284.4 µg/m3, and PM2.5 was 137.8 µg/m3 and 44.5 µg/m3 respectively. PM10 and PM2.5 concentration in northern schools was significantly higher than in southern schools. It exceeded WHO and NAAQS of Pakistan. Questionnaire revealed that adverse impacts of high PM concentration are more rigorous at northern schools than at southern schools of Lahore. Suitable site selection and public cooperation are vital for reduction of particulate matter in schools of Lahore.
Anila Rose Yousaf and Nikhat Khan
Dynamic Mechanics of Soil Erosion by Runoff on Loess Slope
In this research, soil erosion and sediment yield were calculated by runoff shear stress, runoff energy consumption and runoff power theory. Results indicated that a linear relationship existed between the average runoff shear stress and sediment yield. Soil erodibility in the experiment was 178.5g/(Pa·min), and the critical shear stress value was 0.54 Pa. Results from energy consumption implied that there was also a linear relationship between sediment transportation and energy consumption of runoff unit width: Dr = 14.61 (DE-0.37), which indicated that the soil erodibility was 14.61g/J, with a critical energy consumption of 0.37J/ (min·cm). Results from runoff power theory showed that sediment transportation increased with increase in runoff power, and the simple linear relationship was also regressed: Y = 8942.2x - 68.676. Generally, these three theories each showed certain advantages in describing the soil erosion processes on the slope, among which the results from energy consumption theory were simpler, more accurate, and proved more convenient in describing soil erosion on the slope.
Li Peng, Zhang Linhong, Li Zhanbin and Zheng Liangyong
Identification and Characterization of the Effectively Arsenic Tolerant Bacterial Strains from the Potential Arsenic Contaminated site in 24-Parganas (North) District of West Bengal, India
Arsenic is a common menace in the state of West Bengal particularly in the district of 24-Parganas (North) and (South). The major source of arsenic being geologic in nature. Soil samples collected from one such particular location Baduria were tested for the presence of arsenic (As), and on an average the As content of the soil was 2.18mg/kg. Different bacteria were isolated by serial dilution and were also tested for As tolerance. On the basis of their tolerance, three organisms (viz. C-7, A-2, A-1) have shown remarkable percentage uptake of As 43%, 22.17% and 14% respectively, which was highest for C-7 strain. Azithromycin and Streptomycin were found to be more effective to control C-7 with an inhibition zone of 4.5 cm, but for A-2 and A-1 it was Azithromycin with inhibition zone of 3.8cm and 3.5cm respectively. These organisms were characterized and identified by 16S rDNA technique, BLAST results and the cluster analysis by NTSYSpc ver. 2.02e program, and found to be Bacillus sp. strain CCBAU 51490 (C-7) (GenBank Accession Number EF377314.1), Bacillus subtilis sub sp. subtilis strain DSM 10 (Genbank Accession Number NR_027552.1) (A-2) and Pseudomonas otidis strain MCC 10330 (Genbank Accession Number NR_043289.1) (A-1). They can be used in the treatment of As contaminated sludge generated industrially from As treatment plant. This can give a new insight in microbial arsenic trapping with minimum toxic implications in the nature.
Debanjana Sengupta, Arup Kumar Mitra and Sudeshna Shyam Choudhury
Studies on Natural Resources and their Significance Around Arpa River Basin in Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh State is mostly dominated by tribal and backward people. The state has rich endowment of natural resources in terms of minerals, forests and water bodies. The state has a forest cover of around 44%, which represents diverse tropical flora and fauna. Mahanadi, Shivnath, Son, Arpa, Kharoun, Hasdeo and Indrawati are the main rivers. The main forest types that are classified on the basis of species composition include Sal forest, being the dominant species distributed throughout western and eastern Belghana. However, the teak forest are found throughout the Khondri range while the mixed forests are distributed in the southern Belghana where the species of bamboo, sal, muhua, bija, sisso etc. are prominent. The third important resource in aforementioned region is soil and the geology of watershed that determines the infiltration of water, percolation of water, and controls the runoff and soil erosion of the area. The most widely distributed soil types of the area are loamy sand, loam, clayey loam and clay. The black cotton soil and lateritic or red soil are widely dominating in parts of study area. It was inferred from the study that Arpa river basin is very rich in natural resources, which need their systematic management without overexploiting them so that socioeconomic standards of this tribal area can be uplifted in a productive manner.
S. J. A. Bhat and S. Maqbool Geelani
Industrial and Environmental Application of High Volume Fly Ash in Concrete Production
A large number of structural properties of plain concrete are improved with addition of admixtures to concrete. It is well known that the addition of fly ash to plain concrete improves workability, strength, durability, less permeable and more stable. In conventional concrete the flexural strength reaches a maximum value between 14 and 28 days. In high volume fly ash (HVFA) concrete the strength keeps on increasing with age because of pozzolanic reaction of fly ash and strengthening of the interfacial bond between cement paste and aggregate. The use of fly ash as a partial replacement for Portland cement will usually reduce water demand and bleeding of HVFA concrete ranges from negligible to very low. Only few research works have been carried out earlier on flexural study on R C conventional beams without fly ash. Therefore in this investigation an attempt has been made to study any likely improvement on the effect of fly ash on the properties of HVFA concrete in R C beam elements with confinement of stirrups in compression zone. It has been suggested that the effective use of fly ash minimizes the disposal of fly ash, which also solves an environmental problem. This HVFA concrete is easy to pump, consolidate and finish the surface, free from cracks, reduces carbon-dioxide emissions, superior environmental friendliness, reduction in stone mining since it consumes less volume of Portland cement. The methodology adopted above improves ductility and improves the rotation capacity of the joints of framed structure, thus, improving the ultimate load carrying capacity. An attempt is also made to compare the load versus deflection of the HVFA concrete beams with conventional RCC beams and evaluated the performances of the proposed method of confinement. The results indicated that the confinement in the form of stirrups improves the ultimate strength and ductile behaviour of the concrete (IS 3812-1981). An attempt has been made in the present paper to highlight the utilization of fly ash in construction.
R. Thangaraj and R. Thenmozhi
Impact of Forest Structure Simplification on Bird Species Richness in the Harena Forest of the Bale Mountains National Park (BMNP), South Eastern Ethiopia
Human simplification of habitat in the Harenna forest mainly happens by permanently removing woody vegetation. We evaluated the impact of such simplification of habitat on bird species richness. Birds were counted using the point count method at points that were laid out along transect lines, and from their presence/absence, species richness was worked out. By establishing 50m by 50m quadrats at bird counting stations, we counted the number of basal remnants of cut trees and we measured vegetation structure variables such as % grass, % other herbs, % shrubs, % bush and % canopy (tree cover). Tree, bush and shrub covers did have significant positive correlation with bird species richness. As the magnitude of tree cutting increased species richness of birds declined significantly. Similarly with bird species richness, structural variables such as tree, bush and shrub covers did have significant negative correlation with the tree cutting variable. Due to this, we carried out Principal Component Analysis and the first component that was influenced mainly by tree cover and tree cutting variables significantly explained 84.7 % of the variation in bird species richness in a stepwise multiple regression analysis. Bush and shrub cover did also have significant positive contributions towards the explanatory value of the first component, thus, their positive contribution in explaining bird species richness is noteworthy. Results showed habitat simplification through tree cutting has significant negative impact on bird species richness.
Anteneh Shimelis, Mitchell Pinard and Addisu Asefa
Water Conservation in Sugar Industry
Sugarcane hot water balance shows that the water content of sugarcane itself is more than sufficient for internal processing. Surplus internal water is available for external use. By recycling, reuse and good house keeping, external consumption can be minimized. The polluted water is treated by anaerobic digestion-activated sludge process- pressure filtration and activated carbon. The treated water is recycled to reservoir to utilize for factory cleaning, washing, cooling water make-up, colony, gardening and irrigation. Alternatively, wastewater is made zero through bio-composting.
Baban Gunjal and Aparna Gunjal
Studies on the Removal of Acid Blue 25 from Wastewater Using Activated Carbon and Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) as Adsorbent
Activated carbon has been widely used as an adsorbent. Curcuma longa (Linn.) may be an alternative of activated carbon. In the present investigation the study on removal of dye Acid blue 25 using Curcuma longa waste activated carbon as an adsorbent following the down-flow column adsorption technique with a view to assess the stability of the chosen adsorbent for design purpose. Batch kinetic and isotherm studies were carried out at different conditions like contact time, Acid blue 25 concentration and bed height of the adsorbent. The Bohart-Adams and Thomas models were employed for the mathematical description of adsorption equilibrium, and finally it has been observed that the experimental data fitted more accurately to the Thomas model for both the cases.
P. Santhosh, A. Sridevi and C. Dhandapani
Study on Biological Decolorization of Textile Sewage in Kermanshah by Microbial Isolates from Environmental Samples
Nowadays, drug, pulping, textile and other industries are developed in most of the countries and their non save sewages makes many problems for environment. One of the most important dangerous sewage is pigmented sewage, which has complex structures such as azo compounds. In Iran one of the main sources of pigmented sewage is textile manufacturing. Hence, in order to remove colour of this sewage, the present study was conducted to evaluate potential of some bacteria for dye decolourising. To perform this investigation 30 samples from soil and 10 from sewage were collected. All bacteria with potential of decolorization were isolated and identified using biochemical tests. Out of seven different isolated bacteria three were Gram positive and four were Gram negative. Optimization of decolorization for all bacteria was carried out in second step with respect to evaluation of bacterial activity at different temperatures (25-45°C), pHs (5-9) and dye concentrations (0.01-0.04g/L). The results obtained indicated that the best temperature for all bacteria tested was 35°C, pH 8.0, and dye concentration 0.02 g/L. Therefore, decolorization of pigmented sewage for elimination of dangerous compounds could be possible using bacteria.
S. Zahmati, N. Bahador and M. Baserisalehi
Advances on the Applications of Fish Biomarkers in the Aquatic Toxicity of Heavy Metals
Heavy metal pollution has attracted worldwide concerns as it threatens both the aquatic organisms and the integrity of aquatic ecosystem. Moreover, human health has faced up the challenges due to its bioaccumulation through the food chains, among of which fish consuming has been one of the important ways. This paper reviewed the sources of trace metals in coastal waters and analysed the toxicity of trace metals and its toxic mechanisms to fish as well. Recent researches and applications of the biomarkers which can quantify the response fish to pollution stress mainly including the cytochrome P450 enzymes, heat shock protein, metallothionein, antioxidant enzymes and gentoxicology (DNA damage by comet assay), histopathological and morphological parameters were summarized. Finally, the paper discussed these questions to be solved in future: to improve the applications of fish biomarkers and to combine the chemical analysing method, biochemical assay and biomarkers response testing in assessing the risks of pollutants to aquatic ecosystem still need to be studied further.
Xue-Feng Wang and Han-Qu Zhao
An Optimization Study on Equilibrium Development Technology of Horizontal Wells in Edge Water Reservoirs
In the production process of horizontal well, a pressure drop exists in horizontal wellbore from the toe to the heel, leading to different producing pressure drops at various points of horizontal section. And the water will early breakthrough in local horizontal section, which influences on the development effect of horizontal wells. Thus, it is required to combine the pressure drop characteristics in horizontal wellbore with reservoir heterogeneity and the location of horizontal section, in order to achieve equilibrium development of horizontal wells. The edge water reservoir was taken as an example in this study, where the reservoir simulation technology was used for analysing the influences of reservoir permeability difference along the horizontal wellbore, thickness difference along the horizontal wellbore and the angle between horizontal section and oil-water interface on horizontal well development. As a result, reservoir parameters policy limits were obtained for achieving equilibrium development of horizontal wells, providing a basis for the optimal design of horizontal wells in edge water reservoirs.
Cui Chuanzhi, Guo Qi, Geng Zhengling, Yang Chichen, Niu Shuanwen and Lu Zhiyong
Effects of Acute Waterborne Cadmium Exposure on Activities of Antioxidant Enzyme and Acetycholinesterase in the Fish Crimson Red Snapper (Lutjanus Erythropterus)
Fish are widely used as biological monitors of variations in environmental levels of pollutants. To understand how the fish antioxidant, neural systems respond to the oxidative stress under acute Cd2+ exposures (0.005 mg/L, 0.025mg/L, 0.05mg/L, 0.25mg/L), the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and lip peroxidation (MDA ) contents in the liver and gill, and acetycholinesterase (AChE) activities in the brain of Lutijanus erythropterus were measured respectively. The results showed that the hepatic SOD activities were induced significantly (p<0.01) on 24 and 48 hours of cadmium exposure, but inhibited on 168 hours (p<0.01), and impaired after 96 hours exposure from the content of MDA except the group of 0.005mg/L Cd2+. While the SOD activities of branchial tissues were earlier than that of the hepatic in response to the cadmium exposure (about 6 and 12 hours), but the oxidative damage to the gills was less than the liver on 168 hours exposure. In addition, the activities of AChE in brain tissues were disturbed during 96 hours exposure, and inhibited on 168 hours exposure, which may have relations with the oxidative stress resulted from the cadmium exposure.
Xue-Feng Wang, Hai-Gang Chen, Zhe Zhang, Wen-Gui Cai and Xiao-Ping Jia
Ecological Studies of Mir Alam Lake With Reference to Water Quality
The present investigation was undertaken to elucidate certain aspects of ecology of algae and physico-chemical characteristics of water with reference to water quality in Mir Alam lake. The lake provides a wide scope of identification of algal diversity existing in it. The lake is an important source of water for zoological park and, it is essential to assess the quality of water. The analysis of the physico-chemical characteristics indicates that the water is alkaline, and carbonates were recorded in high concentration. The dissolved oxygen is present in very low concentration, and organic matter, chlorides, phosphates and total hardness were present in high concentrations in the lake. The phytoplankton is dominated by Chlorophyceae. The species Chlorella, Scenedesmus, Crucigenia, Pandorina, Euglena, Phacus and Trachelomonas were dominant, and can be used as good indicators of water quality and pollution.
Amin Hossaini Motlagh, K. Navatha and P. Manikya Reddy
A Comparative Study on the Effect of Seaweed Liquid Fertilizers on the Growth and Yield of Vigna radiata (L.)
The effect of liquid extracts of two seaweeds, Caulerpa peltata and Gracilaria corticata on seed germination, growth and pigment contents of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) was studied. The extracts promoted seed germination at lower levels of seaweed liquid fertilizer application. The plant treated with 4% seaweed liquid fertilizer of Gracilaria corticata showed maximum shoot length, root length, number of leaves, number of fruits, number of root nodules, chlorophyll contents (a,b and total chlorophyll).
G. Chitra and P. S. Sreeja
Effect of Urbanization on Groundwater Quality of Tirumangalam Taluk, Madurai
Urban expansion is a major driving force altering local and regional hydrology. During the past several decades, groundwater quality has emerged as one of the most important and confronting environmental issues and it plays a significant role in the national economy through satisfying various water needs. It has special significance and needs greater attention of all concerned since it is a major alternate source of domestic, industrial and drinking water supply. In this paper, groundwater quality of water samples of eleven locations situated in Tirumangalam Taluk have been compared with respect to land use land change between 2002 and 2011. Groundwater samples were tested for nine physico-chemical parameters following the standard methods and procedures. BIS drinking water quality standards were adopted for calculation of Water Quality Index (WQI) to find suitability of water for drinking purpose. The overall view of the water quality index of the samples from the present study area reveals that the groundwater quality is getting deteriorated over a period of nine years and it creates negative impact on environmental quality.
A. S. Kanagalakshmi and S. Nagan
Studies on Efficacy of Sewage Sludge as an Agricultural Supplement for the Assessment of Growth Performance of Brinjal (Solanum melongena var. Local long)
Application of sewage sludge in agriculture is gaining momentum in many countries and is considered as an efficient waste management option. Sewage sludge is enriched with organic matter, nutrients and trace metals that can improve plant growth and soil fertility. In the present study an experiment was carried out wherein different concentrations of sewage sludge alone and in combination with different recommended doses of fertilizers (RDF) were used to assess the growth performance of brinjal (Solanum melongena var. Local long), a commonly cultivated vegetable of Kashmir valley. The field experiment was carried out during summer (Kharif) 2010 and involved five treatments (T1 = Recommended dose of fertilizers; T2 = 100% Sewage Sludge; T3 = 75% Sewage Sludge + 25% RDF; T4 = 50% Sewage Sludge + 50% RDF; T5 = 50% Sewage Sludge + 25% RDF) each with three replications. The data regarding chemical analysis of sewage sludge and pre and post experiment soil samples with respect to pH, EC, OC, N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Ni, Cr, Pb is within permissible limits. The highest yield of brinjal was recorded in T1 (327.67q/ha), followed by 290.21q/ha in T4. Fruit quality parameters viz. carbohydrate and protein contents did not exhibit any significant variation between various treatments. On the other hand ascorbic acid content of fruit, foliar photosynthetic pigments (total chlorophyll) and morphological parameters recorded different values in different treatments. Results revealed that application of sewage sludge did not have any adverse impact on fruit quality and can be used for the improvement of plant growth and soil quality. By utilizing sewage sludge in agriculture, environmental degradation can be minimized.
F. A. Lone, Sabia Zaffar, Nousheen Qureshi, A. Q. Rather and N. A. Kirmani
Vermicomposting of Green Waste Using Earthworm Lumbricus Rubellus
India produces huge volume of organic waste annually. This waste comes from agriculture, urban and industrial sources and also from domestic activities. Utilization of this waste material for productivity process is important for both economical and environmental reasons. In the present study an attempt was made to convert the biodegradable green wastes into value added compost using an exotic earthworm, Lumbricus rubellus. The experiments were carried out in a plastic tray at 50% concentrations of green waste for a period of 60 days. Chemical analysis of worked substrates indicated step-wise increase of nitrogen and phosphorus. The increase of phosphorus and nitrogen were found to be high for green waste undergoing vermicomposting. During the composting period the organic carbon decreased from its initial value 7.12% to 5.09%. The results indicate that 50% concentration of waste mixed with bedding material was ideal for the vermicomposting.
T. R. Sethuraman and K. V. Kavitha
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