Eco Quest Feb 2012 by Kanchan Wakadikar



Eco Quest New Quest New Solution

Ozone as disinfectant for wastewater treatment

About Eco-Quest New Quest New Solution

Eco-Quest is a monthly magazine. It caters scientific articles from environment sector. It provides an opportunity to all budding and young scientist to publish their research. It is circulated through research organizations like NEERI, IITs, IIMs, SPCBs, CPCB, MoEF, selected environmental consultancies, NGOs, colleges, industries, environmental equipment suppliers, manufacturers etc. Eco-Quest is trying to bridge the gap between Government, industries, students as well as common man. It has different section like news, papers, articles, general comments, reader feedback, etc. It is also observed that most of the Indian researchers are publishing their work in international journals. Hence, recent Indian research which is accepted by international journal is highlighted in a special column named “Current Research”. This would be useful for Indian researchers and budding scientist to evaluate their progress and also enhance their knowledge. Also this magazine has details of upcoming environmental events, both national and international. Important environmental days would also be highlighted through this magazine. Through this magazine, we are be encouraging scientific writing at student level. We are also providing platform for budding scientist to publish their work in paper section of the magazine. Also government could express their views on the environment and also they could make the people aware and educate about their initiatives.

EQ Feb 2012

Volume 1. Issue 02 February 2012

What’s Inside? Editor in Chief

Dr. U. C. Mishra, Former Director Health, Safety & Environment Group, BARC, Mumbai

Editorial Advisory Board

Dr. B. Sengupta, Former Mem. Sec. CPCB, New Delhi Mr. Sudhir Badami, Civil Engg., Transportation, Anti Noise Pollution Activist Sunil Kumar, Scientist, NEERI Dr. Sunil Purohit, Principal Mumbai College of Arts, Commerce and Science

Associate Editors

Dr. Abba Elizabeth, Prof. K. J. Somiya College Ms. Kanchan C Wakadikar, EPRI Mr. Avick Sil, EPRI

Assistant Editors

Mr. Chandrasekhar Chandagade

Layout & Designing

Ms. Kanchan C Wakadikar Mr. Avick Sil

Admin & Business Head

Mrs. Rohini Choudhari, EPRI

Marketing Division

Mr. Alok Prasad Mr. Niranjan Kolekar

Office Environment Policy and Research India (EPRI) 219, Gopi Cine Mall, Nana Shankar Sheth Road, Dombivli (West) 421 202, Maharashtra, India, Ph: 0251 3192839, 2400405

Cover Story

Other Offices at Shakapur, Delhi – 110092, Malleswaram, Bangalore – 560003, Odisha, Bhubaneshwar - 751014

6-8

News

Ozone as disinfectant for Wastewater treatment Arcievala Speaks

10 - 11

Event Dairy

Sustainable Irrigation with wastewater Paper

12 - 16

Scholarship Readers Feedback

Oral Cancer & Precancer: Socio-cultural challenges in India Interview

Important Days

Call for Articles Research League

17 - 19

Yuri Jain and His team talks on Water Purifier Current Research

26 - 29

This section highlights the publication of Indian research work in peer review journals……... EQ Feb 2012

22 - 25 21 30 - 31

Editorial Wastewater Treatment Water is the most important component of life. We require water for most of our activities. 80% of our body weight is itself comprises of water. Two third of Earth is covered with water out of which we only 1-2% is potable and hence suitable for drinking and other domestic needs. We do not understand the value of water. India is blessed with many rivers, lakes, estuaries, fresh and surface water bodies and good ground water cover. Whatever amount of water we consume, about 80% is released as wastewater. We can treat the wastewater and reuse it for various activities like car washing, gardening, flushing and ground water recharge. Initial treatment of wastewater is necessary for destroying most of the pathogenic bacteria and viruses in such waters. There are various treatment options available for destroying pathogens in wastewater. Most commonly used is ultraviolet (UV) disinfection. But challenge with UV is the treatment dose and it is itself being harmful to human beings, if not handled with care and caution. UV rays can cause thymine dimmers and thus can cause cancer in human beings. Hence, research communities are constantly in lookout for safer option for treatment of wastewater. One of them is ozone as disinfectant. Through the lead article of this issue, authors have tried to highlight the advantages and beneficial role of ozone in the treatment of wastewater. A comparative analysis is also presented in the article about various disinfectant technologies. Finally, I shall urge all the readers to use water with optimum care. Shortage of potable water on global scale has been predicted in a few decades and much earlier in India. We must preserve and conserve as much water as possible. We all should think for the future generation and promote technology based research for wastewater recycling and its preservation.

Dr. U. C. Mishra Former Director, Health, Safety and Environment group, BARC Editor in Cheif, Eco Quest Magazine (ucmishra@hotmail.com) For Editorial details; Contact: Ms. Kanchan Wakadikar, Associate Editor (wakdikarkanchan@rediffmail.com) Mr. Avick Sil, Associate Editor (avick1411@gmail.com) EQ Feb 2012

ry ve I is . pt he n e o t nc ti co ta a p n e I really appreciate the way this e e e s s e e K v om i r s pr g e e magazine has been laid out. This is a it. is nd ie aw u h h v T i e T t an wonderful concept and I wish all of you to act . cia s g e It h nt arc pr goin t all the luck for its success. e. de ap en c u se i d e t u n S k r s y r St O Judy D all . e, ce, I wo for nt n d re e l a Former Photographer r r n r R rd m cu e wo ijay Scie Via Facebook ha or . f e t h th ya V Env a t l p d ri c, d an roun Sup . S t s M s a e i t This is found to be very informatics to the industries.

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EQ Feb 2012

@ wakdikarkanchan@rediffmail.com avick1411@gmail.com

Avick Sil

Cover Story

Ozone as disinfectant for wastewater Treatment “Most of the time, ozone as disinfectant gets neglected due to its high cost. This article provides the facts about ozone as disinfectant for wastewater treatment as well as its

advantage over UV and other chemical disinfectants.”

astewater disinfection is carried out to prevent the growth of microorganisms and spread of infectious diseases. It is a process that reduces the numbers of viable, infectious microbial organisms in an effluent. There is no perfect disinfectant; however, a disinfectant must have the following characteristics:

 Ability to penetrate and destroy infectious agents under normal operating conditions

 It must not be harmful to workers and environment  Safe and easy in handling, shipping, and storage  Absence of toxic residuals, such as cancer-causing or mutagenic compounds, hazardous effects after disinfection

 Affordable capital and operation and maintenance (O&M) costs

Advantages of Ozone as Disinfectant

One common method of disinfecting wastewater is ‘Ozonation’ (also known as ozone disinfection). Ozone is an unstable gas that can destroy bacteria and viruses. It is formed with collision of oxygen molecules with oxygen atoms. It is generated by an electrical discharge through dry air or pure oxygen onsite. It decomposes in to elemental oxygen in short time. Ozone disinfection is generally used at medium to large sized waste water treatment plants after secondary treatment. EQ Feb 2012

It is the most effective disinfectant in killing bacteria, inactivating viruses and protozoa because of its high oxidation potential and specific lethality. In addition to disinfection, it also involves lowering of COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), as well as removing color and foul odour. Ozone has the ability to carry out oxidation of organic matter and precipitation of metals to improve the quality of treated water.

There are many advantages of ozone treatment technology, but often overlooked over cost saving method and other technologies. Here are some of the advantages of ozone treatment:  It is more effective than chlorine and UV in destroying viruses and bacteria  It requires lesser contact time as compared with other disinfectants. This is mainly due to its higher oxidation potential. Ozone requires about 10-30 minutes of contact time  It decomposes rapidly; hence no after treatment is required to remove any harmful residual  There is no re-growth of microorganisms after ozonation, unlike ultraviolet and chlorine disinfection  It is generated onsite, and thus, there are fewer safety problems associated with shipping, handling, storage, transportation etc  Ozonation increases the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration of the discharged wastewater. The increase in DO could improve the oxygen content of the receiving water body.

Avick Sil

 Ozone as a flocculating agent results in rapid and enhanced micro-flocculation of raw water. This increases the plant filtration rates while decreases the size of filtration beds and chemical costs.  Some pollutants can only be oxidized by ozone. For example, Cryptosporidium parvum, are very resistant to most chemical disinfectants but are economically and effectively destroyed by ozonation.  Ozone has a positive effect on COD removal by breaking down refractory compounds and making them biodegradable  It can totally replace chlorine, chloramines or chlorine dioxide in the pre-oxidation and main oxidation stages

Disadvantage of ozone as Disinfectant  Low dosages of ozone may not effectively inactivate some viruses, spores, and cysts

 It is more complex than other disinfection technologies

 It is very reactive and corrosive, thus requiring corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel

 It is not economical for poor quality (poorly treated) wastewater

 It is extremely irritating and possibly toxic to the workers. So they must not come in contact or directly exposed to it

EQ Feb 2012

Cover Story

Ozone and other Disinfectants Ozone over UV Ultra Violet (UV) radiation is used in many countries for wastewater disinfection. It is less expensive and simple as compared with ozone. UV rays penetrate the cell and attack the intracellular nucleic acids. These acids are the sites where the UV rays can kill or inactivate the microorganism. So, proper dosage is necessary for its efficient functioning of UV as disinfectant. If there is any short coming in dosages, then microorganisms could survive and carryout their activities. Certain microorganisms like Cryptosporidium parvum and Giardia requires extremely high UV dosages (USEPA, 1986). UV propagate in a straight line where as ozone diffuses in all directions. Thus ozone could penetrate inside the flocs and can destroy the hidden microorganisms residing inside the flocs. UV ray dispersion is negligible and thus microorganisms could survive UV dosages by hiding under the flocs. Maintenance cost of ozone is less as compared with UV. Life span of UV lamp depends on its usage. So it requires to be changed whenever necessary. This increases the maintenance cost. Also working of UV disinfectant depends on power supply. Frequent cleaning of the lamp is required for efficient functioning. The disposal of UV lamp is another problem as mercury present in them could cause environmental damage. Mercury could leach in soil and ultimately in ground water if not disposed properly. Thus use of UV lamps also increases the E waste generation which is today’s grave concern.

Avick Sil

Cover Story

Ozone over other Chemical Disinfectants There are various chemicals used for disinfecting the wastewater like chlorine, chloramines, chlorine dioxide, etc (Koltunski and Plumridge, 1998). Chlorine is one of the most commonly used disinfectants for water disinfection. It is applied for deactivating microorganisms and is relatively cheap. Chloramines are also used as disinfectant for deactivating microorganisms but they are mainly used to remove the odor from wastewater. Chlorine dioxide is mainly used as bleach as it is effective at low concentrations as disinfectants. Ozone has higher electrochemical oxidation potential than other oxidants and it require lesser contact time. It is a powerful oxidant that destroys microorganisms and its action is instantaneous and irreversible. Ozone destroys microorganisms by bringing about change in the chemical constituent of their cell wall and plasma membrane. This action of ozone is more effective in destroying microorganisms as compared with other chemical disinfectants. A comparison (Table 1) of dosage required for destroying 99% of different types of microorganisms shows that ozone

dosage is least as compared with other chemical disinfectants.

Ozone the Solution Ozone as disinfectant for wastewater has several advantages. Though initial cost of ozone is higher as compared to other disinfectants, it is more potent in destroying microorganisms. It requires less contact time. The dosage required for destroying microorganisms is less for ozone than other disinfectants. It does not have any residual effect. Ozone also aid in reducing the COD of treated wastewater. All these factors make ozone a better disinfectant than others.

Table 1: Dosage (mg/l) require for destroying microorganisms Types

Ozone

Chlorine

(pH: 6-7)

(pH: 8-9)

(pH: 6-7)

0.02

0.034 - 0.05

95 - 180

0.4 - 0.75

Poliovirus 1

0.1 - 0.2

1.1 - 2.5

770 - 3740

0.2 - 6.7

Giardia gambia cyst

0.5 - 0.6

47 - 150

Giardia muris cyst

1.8 - 2.0

30 - 630

7.2 - 18.5

E. coli

Chloramines Chlorine dioxide

Source: Koltunski and Plumridge, 1998

For Further Reading 1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1986) “Design Manual - Municipal Wastewater Disinfection”, EPA/625/1-86/021. 2. Koltunski, E., Plumridge, J., (1998) Ozone as a disinfecting agent in the reuse of wastewater, pp 1-9. Author Avick Sil, Senior Manager, Environment Policy and Research India (EPRI) Email: avick1411@gmail.com EQ Feb 2012

Wish to publish your work….. Eco quest is a peer review journal cum magazine. It accept papers, research articles, commentaries, articles, case studies and views on different sector like environment, human health, solid waste management (SWM), climate change, water and wastewater, technology assessment, risk analysis, policy analysis and others. The decision of the papers and articles would be in the hand of Editor in Chief.

Format Maximum Length Papers: 2500 – 3000 words (Including Abstract, References, Tables and Figures) Others: 1000 – 2000 words (Including References, Tables and Figures)

Preparation of Manuscripts All manuscripts can be sent as email attachments to the address “wakdikarkanchan@rediffmail.com or avick1411@gmail.com”. Include a cover letter and complete contact information for the corresponding author: address, telephone and facsimile numbers and email address. Microsoft Word format (only word doc format) is preferred for text and tables with 1.5 spacing. Times New Roman is the preferred typeface at 12 point size. Figures should be sent as separately in JPEG format. Keep formatting to a minimum, including section headings and footnotes; do not bold headings. Please restrict italics to scientific names, foreign words and to appropriate parts of references. Do not indent and do not artificially split words with hyphens. Number all pages of the manuscript (either electronically or in soft pencil, at the bottom of each page).

Reference Style: References within the text should be cited: Smith (2001); two authors, Jones and Wong (1999) or (Jones and Wong 1999); three or more authors, Smith et al (2000) or (Smith et al 2000). A list of references should be presented in alphabetical order at the end of the paper using the styles indicated below. Journal titles and titles of books and other publications should be in italics; journal titles should be given in full. Books:

Boulton, A.J., Brock, M.A., 1999. Australian Freshwater Ecology: Processes and Management. Gleneagles Publishing, Glen Osmond, Australia.

Journals:

Cima, F., Ballarin, L., 2000. Tributyltin induces cytoskeletal alterations in the colonial ascidian Botryllus schlosseri phagocytes via interaction with calmodulin. Aquatic Toxicology 48, 419429.

Theses:

Hose, G.C., 2000. The Effect of Endosulfan on Macroinvertebrate Communities in Artificial Streams. PhD thesis. University of Technology, Sydney, Australia. Pp 220.

Reports:

UNEP., 1998. Chemicals in the European Environment: Low Doses, High Stakes? European Environment Agency and United Nations Environment Program Annual Message 2 on the State of Europe’s Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark. pp 50.

Proceedings: Wong, T.H.F., Somes, N.L.G., 1997. The contribution of stormwater wetlands and swales to urban catchment management. In Proceedings, 24th Hydrology and Water Resources Symposium, Auckland, New Zealand, 24-28 November. Smaill A (Ed). New Zealand Water and Wastes Association Inc, Auckland, NZ. pp 89-94. Software : EQ Feb 2012

Soli Arceivala

Arceivala Speaks

SUSTAINABLE IRRIGATION WITH WASTEWAER Prof. Soli Arcievala, Former Director, NEERI Nagpur, India

Wastewater Irrigation Worldwide

An Award Winning American Project

t has been appreciated worldwide that wastewater irrigation is not a primitive or inferior method of disposal, but rather a logical one to use where the climate and local soil conditions are suitable. It require primary, secondary and tertiary treatment in one!

There is a prize winning project of wastewater disposal in USA, Michigan, Muskegon (figure 1).it has large wastewater disposal plant for irrigation. The wastewater is first treated in an aerated lagoon of the wastewater when it cannot be used in the cold winter months. In other months the stored wastewater is used for irrigation. The project irrigates 148,000 Ha of farmland. The under-drainage (with phosphorous removed in flowing through the soil) is treatment of the wastewater would have been needed for phosphorous removal which is being reduced by this process.

Germany first started irrigation with sewage in 1880. In India, sewage for irrigation has been the favorite method of disposal of sewage since hundred years. India has been practicing of irrigation since 1885. It has been reported that India has over 150 farms covering 12000 Ha of land. In 1980, USA had 1000 municipal plants and 1300 industrial plants using irrigation. In USA, irrigation is compulsory to consider as a method of treatment where tertiary treatment is required. However, for food production wastewater irrigation is not allowed, unlike India where irrigation is mainly done for food production. EQ Feb 2012

An Indian Equivalent Method The method preferred (figure 2) in India for municipal wastewater treatment is to treat it for use in land irrigation to cultivate food crops and also to meet local waste water discharge standards. Generally in India, no balancing reservoirs.

Soli Arceivala

Moreover, owing to a long existing power shortage, the treatment method recommended is one that requires least electric power (USAB) and, in fact, produces biogas which can be converted to electric power, if desired. The anaerobic effluent form the USAB is further treated in a short-detention oxidation pond rich in algae (or treated in an aerated from the biogas). The treatment produces an effluent fit for disposing municipal wastewater in India. The method has another advantage in that much resources recovery also occurs in the form of reusable water, biogas and other edible food products such crops, fish, etc.

Arceivala Speaks

Wastewater irrigation Wastewater irrigation is best for treating domestic and municipal waste waters. It is also considered most appropriate to use with agro-industries waste, such as Milk dairies, Sugar factories, beverage factories, breweries, distilleries, fertilizers factories, pulp and paper industry waste. Wastewater irrigation however is not recommended for hazardous wastes, oils, tars, petroleum, solvents, heavy metals, various toxic substances which accumulate in food chain or migrate in soils and pollute. Funding agencies either promote or discourage wastewater irrigation according to national policy.

MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER Screening & Grit

Screening-Degritting Anaerobic Treatment (USAB)

BIO â&#x20AC;&#x201C;GAS (for power generation) Sludge (Fertilizer)

Anaerobic after Treatment

Harvested Crops, Fish, Fowl, Algae (for food)

IRRIGATION FINAL EFFLUENT For reuse or groundwater recharge

Figure 1: Treatment of wastewater for irrigation, USA

Spraying irrigation over 148000 Ha land Aerated Lagoon 3 days Balancing Reservoir 5 months storage owing to very cold water

Land

Under-drainage to river

Figure 2: Method for treatment of sewage for Irrigation, India EQ Feb 2012

Sunali Khanna

Paper

Oral Cancer & Precancer: Socio -cultural challenges in India Dr. Sunali Khanna Email: sunali3011@yahoo.com, sunalikhanna@gmail.com Abstract One of the most serious conditions affecting the oral tissues is oral cancer. Oral cancer is the most common cancer in the Indian Subcontinent mainly due to excessive consumption of smokeless tobacco and areca nut. The vast incidence of oral precancer mainly oral submucous fibrosis in the younger generation is an area of growing concern. In context of current economic growth, access to public health is critical. However, since the past decade private health sector has flourished at the cost of public health. Gradual decline of public investments in the health sector has weakened it further. This has strongly affected the vulnerable and marginalized sections of society. Despite significant improvements in the oral health of masses across the world, it has been reported that lower socio-economic groups compared to higher socio-economic groups have poorer oral health. Therefore, concerted efforts are required to facilitate preventive strategies. Keywords: Areca Nut, Dental Public Health, Leukoplakia, Oral Cancer, Oral Submucous Fibrosis

Oral Health: Gateway to Good Health

ral health is fundamental to overall health, well being and quality of life. Maintenance of good oral health is important from the public health perspective as oral diseases not only affect systemic health but also impact quality of life.1

eases, chronic respiratory diseases OL. Approximately 85% of the and diabetes share a common etiol- oral cancers are oral squamous cell ogy which includes tobacco, alco- carcinomas. hol use and unhealthy diet. In most regions of India, oral cancer is the most common Oral Cancer is a serious cancer in men and the third most public health problem with over common cancer in women.5 In two hundred thousand new cases South Central Asia, 80% of the reported annually worldwide. 2 head and neck cancers are found in Betel quid chewing worldwide is a the oral cavity and oropharynx. Oral health affects quality known risk factor for Oral leuOral squamous cell carcinoma of life by psychologically influenc- koplakia (OL), Oral Submucous comprises over 90% of the maliging how we grow, enjoy life, look, Fibrosis (OS MF) and oral nancies beginning as inflammatory speak, chew, taste food and social- squamous cell carcinoma.3 It has lesions such as leukoplakia, ize. Oral Manifestations, which are been reported that rapid urbanizaerythroplasia and erythoroleuoften the first signs of disease, are tion leading to an unhealthy lifekoplakia.6, 7 The diagnosis of oral diagnosed first by oral health pro- style, such as increased access to cancer may be delayed because of fessionals who then recommend and utilization of tobacco in varithe limitations of visual and manfurther medical assessment. Fur- ous forms leads to an increase in ual examination of the aerothermore, certain systemic condi- the incidence of oral pre cancer digestive tract. tions have direct negative effect on and cancer.4 In India oral precanthe oral cavity. Cardiovascular dis- cer comprises mainly of OSMF &

EQ Feb 2012

Sunali Khanna

Consequently, oral cancer is attributed to the use of betel quid and its substitutes by an increasing number of young adolescents. Epidemiological studies reveal that oral carcinoma occurs in twice as many smokers than non-smokers. In parts of the world where areca nut with or without tobacco is chewed oral malignancies are prevalent.8 The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified betel quid without tobacco as human carcinogen.9

South-East Asian Scenario The indigenous patterns of areca nut use are predominant in India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Taiwan and other parts of Southeast Asia.10 The practice of betel quid consumption dates back thousands of years and is deeply entrenched in the culture of the population which encompasses men and women of all ages including children The World Health Organi-

Paper

zation has reported the use of betel quid as a widespread global habit. The social and cultural habits that may predispose people to oral cancer are common in resource in poor countries of Southeast Asia. As a result, countries that once rarely experienced high levels of oral cancer will likely see a considerable increase of this disease due to large migrant population.11 Rapidly increasing specially amongst migrant Asian communities to all continents.12 mune system, the use of areca but,

Advertising: Quick Endorsement

history of cancer, dietary habits and Increase consumption of smoked and smokeless tobacco amongst adolescents is due to ease

all

malignancies

Asia.

Southeast

such less well established factors as infection with certain types of hu-

Many of India’s one billion man papilloma viruses.17, 18

of availability, excessive advertis-

citizens (and counting) are socially

ing and masking of flavours of

and economically marginalized. And (OSMF) is a precancerous condition

these products. This is causing an

the divide is mostly glaring in large affecting the younger generation of

increase incident of oral precancer

cities, like New Delhi & Mumbai. In Southeast Asia and India. The etiol-

and cancer despite recent gains in

India, as in other nations of the ogy is multi-factorial but betel chew-

reducing poverty and an expanding

world, lower socio-economical ing is strongly implicated. Pan typi-

upper middle class.

Oral Submucous Fibrosis

The access to

status is strongly related to poorer cally consists of areca-nut, tobacco

television and media is vastly glob-

intellectual social and emotional and lime wrapped in betel leaf. Pan

alised and cuts across “class” lines,

development, as the environment Masala is a popular product which

therefore even the marginalised are

provides inadequate stimulation on consists of catechu, lime, areca nut,

affected by them.

opportunities, limiting their possi- peppermint, colouring and flavour-

Increasing the level of

bilities for healthy outcomes.16

ing agents. When tobacco is added

awareness among oral health pro-

The consumption of betel to pan masala it is termed “gutkha”.

fessionals about oral cancer and its

quid and tobacco previously a cul- In some commercially available pan

related cultural risk factors, as well

tural challenge in Southeast Asia is masala and gutkha, magnesium car-

as developing better early diagnosis

now a global public health concern. bonate is also found which has car-

are of key importance in addressing

The recognized etiological agents cinogenic effects. This practice is

morbidity rates.

Oral cancer ac-

counts for up to 40% of

and risk factors for oral cancer in- prevalent in the Indian Subclude tobacco use, frequent alcohol Continent. consumption, a compromised im-

EQ Feb 2012

Sunali Khanna

Experimentally, arecoline, a derivative of areca, can induce fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. There is significant association between areca-nut consumption and OSMF. The buccal mucosa, soft palate, labial mucosa and tongue are common sites of occurrence which cause restricted mouth opening. This leads to malnourishment and further iron deficiency. Intralesional injections of corticosteroids and muscle stretching exercises to prevent further limitations of opening are the only way to limit this condition. Regular follow up is important because of the malignant potential of this disease. There is growing interest in understanding the relationship between genetic susceptibility, prevalent and environment carcinogens for head and neck cancer prevention. Knowledge of molecular basis of oral carcinogenesis may provide critical clues for diagnosis prognosis individualization of therapy and risk assessment. Biomarkers and trace elements have to be studied to ascertain the molecular basis of oral carcinogenesis. Trace elements have been extensively studied in recent years to assess whether they have any modifying effects in the etiology of cancer. Review of literature suggest that role of copper ions in biological damage is caused by superoxide radicals or other reducing agents such as ascorbate, which reduce the copper complex. These complexes react with hydrogen peroxide to EQ Feb 2012

form hydroxyl radicals that cause damage to protein, RNA and DNA that are not repairable by cellular mechanisms thus initiating the malignant process.19 Serum Iron levels are considered as biochemical indicators for nutritional assessment. Utilization of iron in collagen synthesis by the hydroxylation of proline and lysine leads to decreased serum iron levels in OSMF patients. In most cases clinical anaemia may be a contributing factor.20 There appears to be an association between the serum iron content and oral carcinogenesis. In oral / oropharyngeal cancers low selenium levels in the early stage of disease are considered as a causative agent rather than result of disease in previous studies. Various epidemiological studies have implicated selenium as a cancer protective agent. The role of selenium is thus complex which can be attributed to its protective antioxidant role. More detailed studies on a large data base should be instituted to elucidate the exact role of trace elements in the aetiology of oral precancer and cancer. Many studies done “in” and “on” population consuming areca nut have held it as the main etiological factor for OSMF. As this component is also found in what is called “gutkha” and “pan masala” in India, it leads to a predisposition to OSMF. This is not the only contributing factor as other trace elements such as copper, zinc, iron and magnesium having Copyright © 2012 Eco-Quest

Paper

carcinogenic potential too are present in them. These bring about fibrinogenesis, by upregulation of lysyloxidase, leading to blocking the degradation of collagen which causes fibrosis; hydroxylation of proline in tissues; inclusion of Dolomite (calcium & magnesium carbonate) which contains magnesium. Further trace element (copper, iron and selenium) analysis of oral precancer (OSMF/OL) and Oral Squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) revealed high levels of copper in patients with OSMF and oral squamous cell carcinoma.21 Copper ions play an initiating role in stimulation of fibrinogenesis by upregulation of lysyloxidase and thereby causing inhibition of degradation of collagen and causing its accumulation thereby causing OSMF. The rise in serum copper may be due to increased turnover of ceruloplasmin in the serum of carcinoma patients. 21 Serum iron levels are considered as biochemical indicators for nutritional assessment. Utilization of iron in collagen synthesis by the hydroxylation of proline and lysine leads to decrease serum iron levels in OSMF patients. In most cases clinical anaemia may be a contributing factor. Inadequate intake of food due to burning sensation and vesiculation in the oral cavity might also be an important factor. Reduction in the serum iron level may be due to malnutrition caused by the tumour burden in cancer patients. A decrease in the serum selenium level in oral carcinoma patients can be attributed to the protective antioxidant role in

Sunali Khanna

cancer. An attempt to assess age, serum iron, Circulating Immune Complexes and serum levels of selenium revealed that they could be best predictors for the occurrence and progression of lesions in the decreasing order.21 Environmental carcinogens have varying levels of cancer causing potential. Additionally factors such as genetic makeup as well as length and intensity of carcinogenic exposure affect the risk of developing cancer. The types of environmental carcinogens like infectious agents, radiation, radon, passive smoke, chemicals, diesel exhaust and consumer products can be potential causes. The physical environment can be made more conducive to health by involving the community. This can be accomplished by developing local services or from social w or k e r g r o u p s a n d n on governmental organizations. Organizational development involving

the implementation of policies that promote health such as providing no smoking areas should be encouraged. Economic regulations pertaining taxation laws to make products either more or less expensive can be improvised. For instance a protocol to control advertising should be emphasized. Health education having views pertinent to the “times” should be made part of overall health promotion activity. Interventions may not have long term acceptability without public understanding of the reasoning behind them. Through positive antitobacco messages we can help mitigate the problem in children and adolescent. Over the past decades these strategies have designed in a practical way.22 However, keeping in mind the explosion of information already at the disposal of the adolescent we need to make the messages more “friendly” and “hard hitting” so that it yields re-

Paper

sults. Now, we see many NGOs involved in “Anti- tobacco” programmes at school level. They organise interactive sessions with students so that they get answers to their frequently asked questions – firsthand. Changing perceptions of people regarding healthy lifestyles and behavioural habits is dependent on changes brought about in cultural values. This is accomplished by appropriately planned prevention and oral health education.23 There is a need to ensure that the population does not get alienated or distracted from the issue. Execution of preventive strategies requires a deep insight community needs and their endemic characteristics. Good use of existing infrastructure, monitoring indigenous habits and understanding people’s oral health needs can help solve this problem.

References: 1. Watt R, Sheiham A: Inequalities in Oral Health: a review of the evidence and recommendations for action. Br Dent J 1998: 187, 6-12

2. Parhin DM, Pisani P, Ferlay J. Estimates of the worldwide incidence of 25 major cancers in 1990. Int J Cancer. 1999; 80(6): 827-41

3. Sherry L Priebe, Jolanta Aleksejuniene J et al. Oral cancer and cultural factors in Asia. Can J Dent Hygiene, 2008; 42(6) 291-295

4. World Health Organization. Oral Health. WHO 2001 July 18 [cited 2008 Jun 27]. Available from: http:// www.afro.who.int/oralhealth/epidemiology.html

5. Sturgis EM. A review of social and behavioral efforts at oral cancer preventions in India. Head Neck. 2004;26(11):937-44. EQ Feb 2012

Sunali Khanna

Paper

6. Silverman S Jr. Demographics and occurrence of oral and pharyngeal cancers. The outcomes, the trends, the challenge. J Am Dent Assoc. 2001;132 Suppl:7S-11S.

7. Silverman S Jr, Gorsky M, Lozada F. Oral leukoplakia and malignant transformation. A follow-up study of 257 patients. Cancer. 1984;53(3):563-68.

8. Silverman S Jr. Oral Cancer. 5th edition. Hamilton, BC Decker Inc. 2003;1-128. 9. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Tobacco Habits Other Than Smoking: Betel-Quid and Areca-Nut Chewing and Some Related Nitrosamines. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. [37].1985. Lyon, France, IARC.

10. Gupta PC, Warnakulasuriya S. Global epidemiology of areca nut usage. Addict Biol. 2002;7(1):77-83. 11. Avon SL. Oral mucosal lesions associated with use of quid. J Can Dent Assoc. 2004; 70(4):244-48. 12. Betel-Quid and Areca-Chewing Carcinogenic to Humans. WHO/IARC Monographs. WHO Media News Release 2003 July 8 [cited 2004 Nov 7]. Available from: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/ news/ releases/2003/priarc/en

13. Daly B, Watt R, Batchelor P, Treasure E. Essential Dental Public Health. 1 st Edition, Oxford University Press, Oxford 2006 Chapter 1.

14. DiMatteo AM. Cancer: Your responsibility. Inside Dentistry.2007;3(1):47-61. 15. Cox S. Oral cancer in Australia--risk factors and disease distribution. Ann R Australas Coll Dent Surg. 2000;15:261-63.

16. Parkin DM, Muir CS, Whelan SL. Cancer Incidence in 5 Continents. Volume 6. International Agency for Reseach on Cancer. Lyon

17. Lingen M, Sturgis EM, Kies MS. Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in nonsmokers: clinical and biologic characteristics and implications for management. Curr Opin Oncol. 2001;13(3):176-82.

18. Schantz SP, Yu GP. Head and neck cancer incidence trends in young Americans, 1973-1997, with a special analysis for tongue cancer. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2002;128(3):268-74.

19. Margalith EJ, Schenker JG: Copper and zinc levels in normal and malignant tissues. Cancer 1983, 52:868872.

20. (Ramanthan K: OSMF – an alternative hypothesis to its cause. Med J Malay 1981, 36(4):243-45.) 21. Sunali Khanna, Freny Karjodkar. CIC & trace elements (Copper, Iron & Selenium) as markers in oral precancer & cancer: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Head & Face Medicine 2006; 2:33

22. Oral Physiology to Pathology – Learning Lesson from Tobacco Related Oral Lesions, Dr. Janardhan V Bhatt, Dr. Jayashree M Shah, Dr. Faluni R Shah

23. Frencken JE, Holgrem CJ, van Palenstein WH. Basic Package of Oral Care. 2002. Nijmegen, WHO Collaborating Centre. [Cited 2008 Jul 7]. Available from: www.whocc-nijmegem.com EQ Feb 2012

Yuri Jain

Interview

Yuri Jain and His team talks on Water Purifier What are the criteria for selecting a water purifier? To protect your family from water borne diseases, the best practise would be to purify your water at home at the time of consumption. If you are concerned about the safety of water, make sure that you choose the right water purifier for your home. The water purifier must fulfil the following conditions;  The water purifier should filter out physical dirt and impurities present in the source water  It should remove harmful viruses, bacteria, cysts and pesticide and other impurities present in the source water as per USA’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) criteria (because that is what gives complete protection from diseases)  The water after purification should taste good, should be odourless and look clear  There should be indicator which tells you when the water purifier germ removal power is going to be over  The water purifier should be able to shut itself off

   

when the germkill power is over It should run without electricity or gas. Thus saving purification and maintenance cost It should run without any supply of running water and work even if your taps run dry There should be no wastage of drinking water The water purifier should give all the above benefits at an extremely low initial price and low ongoing costs

There are many resin based water purifiers are available in the market, but cost wise they are much cheaper than UV and RO water purifier systems. Even this water purifier does not require electricity. Hence we would like to know the working of this purifier is as good as UV system (destroying bacteria) or RO system (removing chemicals as well as bacteria). If yes could you highlight this aspect? Pureit runs with a unique GermKill Kit that removes all harmful viruses, bacteria, parasites and pesticide impurities to give drinking water that is ‘as safe as boiled water’. It provides this without boiling and without electricity or continuous tap water supply. It has a unique ‘End of EQ Feb 2012

battery life indicator’ and ‘Auto switch-off’ which ensures consumers never has unsafe water. Leading international and national medical, scientific and public health institutions have tested Pureit’s performance. In today’s market, consumers of water purifiers have many choices amongst the host of brands. Each one of them has various features and everybody claims that they are the best or safest. But looking at the external environmental factors like quality of drinking water, lack of 24 hour running water and electricity; there are three most important and essential features any in-home water purifier: 1. It should offer you world class safety 2. It should ensure that consumer never ever have unsafe

Yuri Jain

water 3. It must work without relying on 24 hours electricity and running water. We believe Pureit gives unmatched safety and convenience because of its three safety features: 1. It removes viruses and bacteria as per the Germkill criteria of USEPA 2. It has auto shut off facility which shuts off water flow when its Germkill battery gets over and needs replacement. Thus ensuring no consumer will ever have unsafe water

Interview

3. It does not require electricity and running water supply source It took over five years to develop this breakthrough product. The Pureit innovation addresses one of the biggest technological challenges of the century – that of making safe water accessible and affordable to millions of customer. The current market for domestic water purifiers in India consists mainly of ultraviolet and reverse osmosis purifiers. They are expensive and common person cannot afford. As affordable purifiers become available, the market would grow rapidly.

Which TDS value (concentration) for drinking water is best suited for human consumption The desirable limit as per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is <500 ppm or mg/L and the permissi-

ble limits for the same is <2000 ppm.

Does this water purifier give protection to water borne diseases? Pureit kills all harmful viruses, bacteria and removes parasites and pesticide impurities, giving you ‘as safe as boiled water’TM. This way Pureit assures consumers of complete protection from all water borne

diseases like jaundice, diarrhoea, typhoid and cholera.

How could you be so confident on this? Performance has been tested by leading scientific and medical institutions in India and abroad like National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Chennai, Tamilnadu; Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysore, Karnataka; National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), Kolkata; Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), Kolkata; Institute of Public Health Engineers (IPHE), Kolkata; SRL Ranbaxy Clinical Reference

Laboratories, Mumbai, Maharashtra; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK; Scottish Parasite Diagnostic Laboratory, Glasgow, UK; Unilever Research and Development, Colworth, UK; King Institute of Preventive Medicine, Chennai, Tamilnadu; Sundaram Medical Foundation, Chennai, Tamilnadu; Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, Tamilnadu. So we are confident on our product performance.

What are the other features of this product? Great Convenience: Pureit doesn’t need gas, electricity or continuous tap water supply, making it an absolute hassle free water purifier. Great Taste: It gives clear and odour-free water. There is no chlorine in output water. Great quality and capacity: It is made with the best quality plastic and has capacity of 18 litres. Unmatched Affordability: Price of Pureit Water Purifier is Rs.2000 and Pureit Compact model is Rs.1000. Compared to the prices of other purification systems, Pureit is a ‘dream come true’. The price of the Germkill Kit TM is Rs.365. It lasts for about 1500 litres. EQ Feb 2012

Yuri Jain

Interview

Could you highlight on this Germkill technology? Pureit has a unique set of consumables that are collectively called the ‘Germ-kill TM’. The Germkill Processor kill or removes all harmful viruses, bacte-

ria, parasites and pesticides to give drinking water ‘as safe as boiled water’.

Is there any maintenance cost behind this resin based purifier? No. Costs of purification is Rs.0.24 per litre of safe drinking water.

What is the minimum and maximum TDS range of input water, which can be used for resin based water purifier? It is not applicable.

Is there any range for TDS of output water through resin based water purifier? No range is available. Eco Quest is thankful to Yuri Jain - GM (Unilever) and his team members Anchan Prakash, Agrawal Siddhart, Dua Pushpreet who supported in this technical discussion.

Working and feature of Pureit EQ Feb 2012

Scholarships International Scholarship Programme of Aga Khan Education The 2012-13 International Scholarship Programme application cycle is now open. Applications can be obtained from AKF offices or Aga Khan Education Services/Boards in your country of current residence The Aga Khan Foundation provides a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies to outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies. Scholarships are awarded on a 50% grant : 50% loan basis through a competitive application process once a year in June or July. The Foundation gives priority to requests for Master's level courses but is also willing to consider applications for PhD programmes, when doctoral degrees are necessary for the career objectives of the student. Requests will also be considered for travel and study awards for PhD students doing their research in Third World countries on topics judged to be of interest to the Aga Khan Development Network. Applications for short-term courses are not considered; neither are applications from students who have already started their course of study.

Geographic Scope The Foundation accepts applications from countries where it has branches, affiliates or other AKDN agencies which can help with processing applications and interviewing applicants. At present, these are Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Syria, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Madagascar, France, Portugal, UK, USA and Canada.

Selection Criteria The main criteria for selecting award winners are: l) excellent academic records, 2) genuine financial need, 3) admission to a reputable institution of higher learning and 4) thoughtful and coherent educational and career plans. Candidates are also evaluated on their extra-curricular interests and achievements, potential to achieve their goals and likelihood to succeed in a foreign academic environment. Applicants are expected to have some years of work experience in their field of interest.

Age Limit Preference is given to students under 30 years of age.

Financial Assistance The Foundation assists students with tuition fees and living expenses only. The cost of travel is not included in AKF scholarships. Applicants are requested to make every effort to obtain funding from other sources as well, so that the amount requested from the Foundation can be reduced to a minimum. Preference is given to those who have been able to secure some funding from alternative sources. The deadline for submission of applications is March 31, although in certain countries internal deadlines may be earlier. Applicants should be prepared to be interviewed by local Scholarship Committees about their financial situation, their academic performance, extra-curricular achievements and career plans. Interview reports are sent with the applications to Geneva for the final selection. The annual Scholarship Selection Meeting takes place in late June or early July and the Aga Khan Foundation notifies all students of the outcome of their application shortly thereafter.

For More Information http://www.akdn.org/akf_scholarships.asp EQ Feb 2012

Important days

Important Days 2nd February: World Wetlands Day (WWD) It marks the date of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea. WWD was celebrated for the first time in 1997 and made an encouraging beginning. Each year, Government agencies, NGOs, and groups of citizens at all levels of the community have taken advantage of the opportunity to undertake actions aimed at raising public awareness of wetland values and benefits in general and the Ramsar Convention in particular. From 1997 to 2009, the Convention’s Web site has posted reports from more than 98 countries of WWD activities of all sizes and shapes, from lectures and seminars, nature walks, children’s art contests, sampan races, and community clean-up days, to radio and television interviews and letters to newspapers, to the launch of new wetland policies, new Ramsar sites, and new programmes at the national level.

4th February: World Cancer Day Cancer is a leading cause of death around the world. WHO estimates that 84 million people will die of cancer between 2005 and 2015 without intervention. Each year on 4 February, WHO supports International Union against Cancer to promote ways to ease the global burden on cancer. Preventing cancer and raising quality of life for cancer patients are recurring themes.

21st February: International Mother language Day International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO's General Conference in November 1999. The International Day has been observed every year since February 2000 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. Languages are the most powerful instruments of preserving and developing our tangible and intangible heritage. All moves to promote the dissemination of mother tongues will serve not only to encourage linguistic diversity and multilingual education but also to develop fuller awareness of linguistic and cultural traditions throughout the world and to inspire solidarity based on understanding, tolerance and dialogue.

28th February: National Science Day This Day is observed to mark the novel discovery of Raman Effect by the great Indian Physicist Sir C. V. Raman on 28th February, 1928. In an effort to popularize the benefits of scientific knowledge and practical appropriation, 28th February is celebrated as National Science Day (NSD). Under the initiative of Rashtriya Vigyan Evam Prodoyogiki Sanchar Parishad (RVPSP) (National Council for Science & Technology Communication) of the Ministry of Science and Technology various programmes ranging from a day to a full month either beginning or culminating on February 28 are implemented. Besides, National Science Day offers an opportunity to bring issues of science on to centre stage. The activities organized on the occasion provide public with an occasion to personally attend various programmes and be aware of the emerging issues of immediate concern. EQ Jan 2012.

News

Know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening around the world Delaying on Judgment

U.S. federal appeals court on Friday issued a last-minute order to delay the January 1 implementation of stricter federal limits on pollution from coal-

fired plants. They provided a temporary win for utilities worried about the cost of implementation. In a blow to environmental groups, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit granted a request to stay the Environmental Protection Agency's Cross-State Air Pollution Rule, pending further court review.

Lifeline for Damur Lake, Tripura

he Dumbur Lake, one of the best tourist destinations of Tripura. It is situated at 83 km away from capital town. Government has taken initiative to conserve this lake. It is all set to get a new look with the government mulling to transform it into more fascinating tourist spot.

A Chandigarh based Architecture College has already envisaged a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for overall beautification of the Dumbur Lake.

EQ Feb 2012

News

Post for Protecting Mangroves

he state forest department has created a new post of Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Mangroves. This

post is created for the protection and conservation of nearly 5,800 hectares of mangroves. N Vasudevan has been appointed as the CCF. The new post was created in October 2011 when the forest department did away with the post of CCF (Research), based in Chandrapur, in favour of the CCF (Mangroves) position in Mumbai.

Toll Booth get EC hurdle

hile the inauguration of the Pinjore- Parwanoo bypass road has been delayed due to safety reasons, the Himachal Pradesh government has been hit by another problem - the inability to locate a site for a excise and taxation toll barrier on the proposed road stretch. The Himachal

excise and taxation department and the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) had identified a site in Dipra village for the toll barrier, but the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x;s forest department refused to give its clearance for any construction at the proposed site.

EQ Feb 2012

News

New Earth….Is it?????

he most Earth-like planet ever discovered by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration). It is orbiting at 600 light years away

from Sun. US‟s Nasa said the Kepler space telescope confirmed its first-ever planet — Kepler-22b — in a habitable zone outside our solar system. It is 2.4 times the size of the Earth, putting it in a class known as “super-Earths”.

ADB Comes to Aid for Waste to Energy Projects

sian Development Bank (ADB) will provide Rs 4.5 billion as soft loan for "Waste to Energy

Project" of Capital Development Authority. Total project cost is estimated at six billion rupees. During a press conference, Chairman CDA Engr. Farkhand Iqbal said that ADB will provide 75 percent financing to this project, while CDA will generate the 25 percent by cutting its nondevelopment budget. He said that PC-1 of this project has been sent to the Cabinet for approval and soon after receiving green signal from the Cabinet ADB would start disbursing the amount pledged for this project. EQ Feb 2012

News

Eco Mela: Initiative of BMC

n a bid to promote its renewed initiative for the segregation of wet and dry garbage, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to rope in activists and residents of several

housing colonies in the city. Civic officials, along with environmentalists and members of the Advance Locality Management (ALM), will participate in an „eco mela‟, to be held later this month at Powai. Residents from the area will be introduced to NGOs that work towards garbage management and door-to-door collection of segregated waste.

Germany comes to aid Kochi

he Suchitwa Mission has recommended setting up at Brahmapuram a mega plant capable of processing about 500 tonnes of municipal solid waste generated daily in Kochi corporation areas and nearby municipalities. Experts associated with the mission told The Hindu on Monday that

the plant will work on a German technology known as „ecocycling'. EQ Feb 2012

Current Research

This section highlights the publication of Indian research work in peer review journals……...

Heavy Metals Extraction Experimental Studies on Heavy Metal Extraction from Contaminated Soil Using Ammonium Citrate as Alkaline Chelate during the Electrokinetic Process Published in: Journal of Hazardous, Toxic, Radiactive Wastes, 15, 2011 Authors: Bala Ramudu Paramkusam, Rakesh Kumar Srivastava, Shyam Bihari Dwivedi

esearchers have performed experimental studies using ammonium citrate (AC) during the electrokinetic (EK) remediation process for the extraction of cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) from the contaminated soil. They evaluated the efficiency of ammonium citrate by considering it as a washing solution and a purging solution at the anode electrode compartment. The efficiency of electrokinetic extraction was observed to be significantly influenced by the pH and buffering nature of the soil medium. The experimental studies indicate that the removal of cadmium and copper was 48.9% and 30.0%, respectively, when ammonium citrate was used both washing and purging solution. The solubility of both cadmium (Cd ++) and copper (Cu++) in EK-treated soils has also been estimated by sequential extraction studies with deionized (DI) water. The analytical techniques, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) provide the evidence of migration of cations during treatment of contaminated soil by process of electroosmosis (EO). The SEM images of both cadmium- and copper-contaminated soils show that these soils have a fluffier and more porous structure. This might be caused by the change in surface charges of the clay particles as a result of introduction of heavy metals. The mineralogical compositions of soil are not altered significantly by electrokinetic process.

Toxicity of Bhandup Lake Probability of Aluminum Toxicity from Bhandup Complex Water Treatment Plant, Mumbai: Case Study Published in: Journal of Hazardous, Toxic, Radiactive Wastes, 15, 305, 2011 Authors: Avick Sil, Kanchan Wakadikar, Sunil Kumar, S. P. M. Sivagami, Shalini Tandon, Shivani Dhage, and Rakesh Kumar

handup Complex water treatment plant located in Mumbai, India, supplies water to most of Mumbai. The plant receives raw water from Vehar Lake. Alum has been used as a coagulant in the treatment process for the past 27 years. The backwashed water from the plant is released into Vehar Lake, which carries a significant amount of suspended matter. Therefore, a layer of sludge was deposited on the meeting point of backwashed water and Vehar Lake. The status of aluminum (Al) concentration in sludge deposits, banks, water, and sediment samples of Vehar Lake and its comparison with Al concentration of soil in the area surrounding the plant is presented in this paper. The comparison showed that the surrounding soil samples had the least Al concentration (16,394–26,081 mg/kg), whereas the highest values of 53,882–73,382 mg/kg and 62,096–76,496 mg/kg were reported in upper and lower layers of sludge, respectively. This paper also discusses the detrimental effect of Al when it is available in toxic form at acidic pH. EQ Feb 2012

Current Research

Landfill Bioreactor Pilot-Scale Simulation of Landfill Bioreactor and Controlled Dumping of Fresh and Partially Stabilized Municipal Solid Waste in a Tropical Developing Country Published in: Journal of Hazardous, Toxic, Radiactive Wastes, 15, 321, 2011 Authors: M. Swati, O. P. Karthikeyan, Kurian Joseph, C. Visvanathan, and R. Nagendran

our pilot-scale lysimeters were used to study the benefits of landfill operation with and without leachate recirculation in tropical weather conditions. Young and old landfills were simulated by filling lysimeters with a segregated fraction of fresh municipal solid waste (MSW) and MSW mined from an open dump site, respectively, and periodically monitoring leachate quantity and quality and biogas quality. For each substrate, one lysimeter was operated as a bioreactor with leachate recirculation and another lysimeter was operated as a controlled dump, for a period of 10 months. Densities between 652 and 825 kg/ m3 could be achieved with fresh and mined MSW. Despite such compaction during waste placement, bioreactor technology helps in leachate management, especially in the case of the young landfill lysimeter operated in tropical weather. The benefits of leachate recirculation in the young landfill lysimeter were evident from the significant decrease in chemical oxygen demand (COD) (86%), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) (82%), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) (85%), and volatile solids (75%) in leachates. However, ammonia nitrogen (amm-N) and chlorides in the leachates accumulated in bioreactor landfills. Operating an old landfill lysimeter as a bioreactor seemed to have no exceptional advantage in the context of leachate management, although leachate recirculation enhanced the methane potential of both fresh and mined MSW.

Air Conditions and Climate Change Modeling increased demand of energy for air conditioners and consequent CO2 emissions to minimize health risks due to climate change in India Published in: Environmental Science & Policy, 13(8), 2010, 702-712 Authors: Ezgi Akpinar-Ferrand, Ashbindu Singh

eveloping countries situated mostly in latitudes that are projected for the highest climate change impact in the twenty-first century will also have a predictable increase in demand on energy sources. India presents us with a unique opportunity to study this phenomenon in a large developing country. This study finds that climate adaptation policies of India should consider the significance of air conditioners (A/Cs) in mitigation of human vulnerability due to unpredictable weather events such as heat waves. However, the energy demand due to air conditioning usage alone will be in the range of an extra ∼750,000 GWh to ∼1,350,000 GWh with a 3.7 °C increase in surface temperatures under different population scenarios and increasing incomes by the year 2100. We project that residential A/C usage by 2100 will result in CO2 emissions of 592 Tg to 1064 Tg. This is significant given that India's total contribution to global CO2 emissions in 2009 was measured at 1670 Tg and country's residential and commercial electricity consumption in 2007 was estimated at 145,000 GWh.

EQ Feb 2012

Current Research

Climate Change Impact on Agriculture Assessment on vulnerability of sorghum to climate change in India Published in: Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 138 (3-4), 2010, 160-169 Authors: Aditi Srivastava, S. Naresh Kumar, P.K. Aggarwal

t is important to analyse the impacts of climate change on target production system. However, it is more important to deduce possible adaptation strategies so that the research and developmental policies can be guided to meet the challenges of climate change. Impacts of climate change on the sorghum production system in India are analysed using InfoCrop-SORGHUM simulation model. In general, impact of climate change is projected to be more on winter crop in central (CZ) and south-central zones (SCZ), while in south-west zone (SWZ) the impacts are likely to be higher on monsoon crop. Climate change is projected to reduce monsoon sorghum grain yield to the tune of 14% in CZ and SWZ and by 2% in SCZ by 2020. Yields are likely to be affected even more in 2050 and 2080 scenarios. Climate change impacts on winter crop are projected to reduce yields up to 7% by 2020, up to 11% by 2050 and up to 32% by 2080. Impacts are projected to be more in SWZ region than in SCZ and CZ. But, the yield loss due to rise in temperature is likely to be offset by projected increase in rainfall. However, complete amelioration of yield loss beyond 2 °C rise may not be attained even after doubling of rainfall in south-central zone (SCZ) and in central zone (CZ). Results indicate that adaptation strategies like changing variety and sowing date can reduce the vulnerability of monsoon sorghum to about 10%, 2% and 3% in CZ, SCZ and SWZ regions in 2020 scenario. Adaptation strategies reduced the climate change impacts and vulnerability of winter crop to 1– 2% in 2020, 3–8% in 2050 and 4–9% in 2080. This indicates that more low-cost adaptation strategies should be explored to further reduce the net vulnerability of sorghum production system in India.

Extreme Rainfall Regional changes in extreme monsoon rainfall deficit and excess in India Published in: Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans, 49(2-3), 2010, 206-214 Authors: Indrani Pal, Abir Al-Tabbaa

ith increasing concerns about climate change, the need to understand the nature and variability of monsoon climatic conditions and to evaluate possible future changes becomes increasingly important. This paper deals with the changes in frequency and magnitudes of extreme monsoon rainfall deficiency and excess in India from 1871 to 2005. Five regions across India comprising variable climates were selected for the study. Apart from changes in individual regions, changing tendencies in extreme monsoon rainfall deficit and excess were also determined for the Indian region as a whole. The trends and their significance were assessed using non-parametric Mann– Kendall technique. The results show that intraregion variability for extreme monsoon seasonal precipitation is large and mostly exhibited a negative tendency leading to increasing frequency and magnitude of monsoon rainfall deficit and decreasing EQ Feb 2012

Current Research

Controlling Heart Diseases The Framingham Heart Study: Impact on the Prevention and Control of Cardiovascular Diseases in India Published in: Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases, 53 (1), 2010, 21-27 Authors: Kolli Srinath Reddy, Ambika Satija

ndia is in the middle of the epidemiological transition, with the burden of disease shifting towards chronic conditions, of which cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) form a major part. Findings from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) have tremendous potential to circumvent the projected increase in CVD burden in India, as they highlight the importance of measuring risk in individuals and populations, and preventing future onset of disease. The findings of the FHS have stimulated several cross-sectional studies in India documenting a high and increasing burden of CVD risk factors. These have led to policy level changes in the country, in the form of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control ratification, and the National Program on Diabetes, CVD, and Stroke. There is now need for an Indian cohort study on the lines of the FHS, which can more closely evaluate the use of the FHS risk score among Indians and translate FHS findings into the Indian context.

Air Pollution and Policies in India Monetary burden of health impacts of air pollution in Mumbai, India: Implications for public health policy Published in: Public Health, 125(3), 2011, 157-164 Author: A.M. Patankar, P.L. Trivedi

he estimated monetary burden of health impacts associated with air pollution in Mumbai mainly comprises out-of-pocket expenses of city residents. These expenses form a sizable proportion of the annual income of individuals, particularly those belonging to poor households. These findings have implications for public health policy, particularly accessibility and affordability of health care for poor households in Mumbai. The study provides a rationale for strengthening the public health services in the city to make them more accessible to poor households, especially those living in the slums of Mumbai. EQ Feb 2012

Event Diary

Do not miss these days Name

NCNTE-2012

Theme

Third Biennial National Conference on Nascent Technologies in the Engineering Fields of: Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics and Telecommunication, Computer, Information Technology and Humanities and Basic Sciences

Date

24 to 25 February 2012

Venue

Contact Organizers

Organizer Fr. C. Rodrigues Institute of Technology, Vashi Details Name

http://www.fcrit.ac.in/ncnte2012/

Name

National Conference on Materials for Advanced Technologies

Theme

The three days conference NCMAT-12 is aimed at bringing together the scientific and technical community, to share their knowledge in the recent trends on the advanced materials, its applications and various computational techniques

Date

27 to 29 February 2012

Venue

Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Organizer ABV-Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Gwalior Details

Recent Advances and Challenges in Engineering and Management-2012 (RACEM-2012)

http://ncmat12.webs.com

Name

5th Doctoral Theses Conference

Theme

The National Conference on “Recent Advances and Challenges in Engineering and Management” (RACEM-2012) will focus on recent trends in the fields of Technology and Management

To give feedback for the research scholars who are in the process of submitting their thesis and to identify the gap between theory and practice and to fill the gap with suitable suggestions

Date

2 to 3 March 2012

Date

2 to 3 March 2012

Venue

Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India

Venue

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Organizer

IBS Hyderabad

Organizer

Vidyalankar Institute of Technology,Wadala,Mumbai-37

Details

http://www.vit.edu.in

http://www.ibshyderabad.org/Conference/ Doctoral%20Theses%20Conference/ Brochure-DTC.pdf

Theme

Name

IRNet: International Conference on MATLAB Applications in Engineering and Technology

Name

IEEE International Conference on Advances in Engineering, Science and Management

Theme

MATLAB is a high-level technical computing language and interactive environment for algorithm development, data visualization, data analysis, and numerical computation. In recent years, many scientist and engineers use MATLAB to solve their challenges

Theme

The theme stresses on bridging of all communities of experts for improving research and innovation and sustaining knowledge for the betterment of humanity. The conference aims to cover almost all fields in Engineering, Management, Science

Date

30 to 31 March 2012

Date

16 March 2012

Venue

Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, India

Venue

Chandigarh, India, India

Organizer E.G.S.Pillay Engineering College

Organizer I.I.M.T, Bhubaneswar, INDIA Details

EQ Feb 2012

Details

http://www.icaesm.egspec.org

http://www.interscience.ac.in/Chandigarh/ ICMAET/index.html

Event Diary

Name

2012 3rd International Conference on Environmental Science and Technology (ICEST 2012)

Name

International Conference on Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computation 2012

Theme

Engineering and Technology

Theme

Date

10 to 11 March 2012

Venue

Chennai, India

The main objective of ICMMSC 2012 is to bring out the recent potential research works and discuss the latest development in the thrust areas of the conference

Date

16 to 18 March 2012

Venue

Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, India

Organizer CBEES, EBSCO Details

http://www.icest.org/

Name

EDUCON2012

Theme

DUCON2012 1ST WORLD CONFERENCE of Global Educational Research Association (GERA) Hosted by: Faculty of Education & Humanities, Lovely Professional University on April 6-8, 2012 Theme: Shaping A Future Classroom: A Global Perspective

Date

6 to 8 April 2012

Venue

Phagwara, Punjab, India

Organizer UGC-SAP (DRS-II) Details

http://www.mathgru.com/

Name

2012 International Conference on Traffic and Logistic Engineering Â¨C ICTLE 2012

Theme

Engineering & Technology

Date

28 to 29 April 2012

Venue

Chennai, India

Organizer SIE Details

http://www.ictle.org/

Name

International Conference on Recent Advances in Engineering, Technology and Management SPICON2012

Theme

Engineering & Technology

The Fourth International Conference on Wireless, Mobile Network & Applications (WiMoA- 2012) is dedicated to address the challenges in the areas

Date

31 May 2012 to 2 June 2012

Venue

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Organizer

Sardar Patel College of Engineering

Date

25 to 27 May 2012

Details

http://www.ictle.org/

Venue

Delhi, India

Organizer Global Educational Research Association Details

http://thegera.in/educon2012.php

Name

The Fourth International Conference on Wireless, Mobile Networks & Applications (WiMoA-2012)

Theme

Organizer AIRCC Details

http://airccse.org/wimoa/2012/wimoa.html

Name

Second International Conference on Advanced Oxidation Processes

Theme

AOP-2012 intends to bring together chemists, physicists, biologists, environmental scientists and engineers to display their latest findings and to discuss potential avenues in both chemical and biological oxidative decomposition pathways

Date

5 to 8 October 2012

Venue

Kottayam, Kerala, India

EQ Feb 2012

Ist International Conference on Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences (ICMMS)

Theme

1st International Conference on Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences (ICMMS) is the premier forum for the presentation of new advances and research results in the fields of Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences.

Date

7 to 8 July 2012

Venue

New Delhi, India

Organizer Serials Publications, New Delhi (India)

Organizer Society of Environmental Chemistry and Allied Sciences (SECAS) Details

Name

Details

http://www.serialsjournals.com/ conference.php

The Research League Thinking Together , Thinking Beyond

Its Necessity

EPRI has launched this program to overcome all the challenges for students and research communities

 Researchers face challenge in finding relevant literature for research topic, guidance about

research work and other activities  Indian Researchers are not able to cope with the recent up gradation of international research

communities  Difficulties in publications (peer review journals)  Difficulties in patent and technical report preparation  Interpretation of scientific data and data validations  Statistical evaluation of data

About the Programme Civitas

Crossing The Hurdle

Final Frontier

Registration

Free

Rs. 10,000/Year

Rs. 15,000/Year

Benefits

 Access to the

 Membership of Research League  Scientific and technical research knowledge will be provided  Guidance on research topic  Statistical evaluation of data

 Crossing the Hurdle +  Paper publications in peer review journals  Technical report & patent preparation  Interpretation of data  Evaluation of research proposal

 Registering with Crossing the Hurdle of Research League  Email the requirement to coordinator

 Registering with Final Frontier of Research League  Email the requirement to coordinator

Blog  Knowledge sharing

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 Questions and doubts to email

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