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Application of Soil Composition for Inferring Fluoride Variability in Volcanic Areas of Mt. Meru, Tanzania
John Mkungu,
Revocatus Lazaro Machunda,
Alfred Nzibavuga Nyarubakula Muzuka
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
231-238
Received:
29 August 2014
Accepted:
13 September 2014
Published:
20 September 2014
Abstract: Predicting fluoride levels in water within fluoride endemic areas is an issue of high significance. As a result several methods including mathematical models have been reported to suit the task. However, most of these methods have limited practicality to low income communities. This study presents the potentials of employing soil characteristics to predict the level of fluoride in groundwater. The study is based at the areas around Mount Meru in Northern Tanzania. The volcanic sediments around this mountain had been segregated by geological studies into various lithologies. In this study water and soil samples were collected at springs in volcanic sediments categorized as main cone group, mantling ash, Tengeru lahar, Ongadongishu lahar and Ngarenanyuki lahar. Fluoride levels in water were then correlated to elemental composition of the soil. Water samples showed that fluoride was low in the main cone group, mantling ash and Tengeru lahar whereby the median concentration was 1mg/l but it was high in Ngarenanyuki and Ongadongishu lahars whereby the median concentrations were 4mg/l and 9mg/l respectively. Soil analyses indicated that high levels of aluminium do coincide along with low sodium levels, and vice versa. In addition high levels of sodium in soil are accompanied by high levels of calcium. Correlation studies indicated a strong negative relationship between aluminium in soil and fluoride in spring water with r2 = 0.847. On the other hand, a positive correlation was obtained between calcium in soil and fluoride in water with correlation coefficient, r2= 0.765. Likewise, sodium indicated a positive correlation with fluoride in water (r2= 0.458). So long as high levels of Na and Ca in soil or water normally result to formation of salts on the banks of water sources after prolonged evaporation during dry seasons, the correlation established between fluoride and such elements in soil can enable people within volcanic areas to identify water sources with unacceptable levels of fluoride in their areas hence reducing the risks of fluorosis.
Abstract: Predicting fluoride levels in water within fluoride endemic areas is an issue of high significance. As a result several methods including mathematical models have been reported to suit the task. However, most of these methods have limited practicality to low income communities. This study presents the potentials of employing soil characteristics to...
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Composition, Abundance and Feeding Guilds of Macroinvertebrates in Lake Kenyatta, Kenya
Patrick Oduor Orwa,
Reuben Omondi,
Eric Okuku,
William Ojwang,
Stephen Mwangi Njuguna
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
239-243
Received:
30 August 2014
Accepted:
15 September 2014
Published:
30 September 2014
Abstract: In an attempt to describe the benthic macroinvertebrate assemblage of Lake Kenyatta and recommend possible interventions for sustainable management, sampling was done at different stations using an Eckman grab and a scoop net. At each station, six samples were taken (three grabs and three scoops). The samples were washed using a 300µm sieve, sorted live and identified to genus level and where possible to species level using appropriate keys. The specimens were further categorized into functional feeding guilds. The data were then analysed for diversity, evenness, abundance and dominance. Forty two species in 25 families and 13 orders were recorded. The organisms were further grouped into 4 functional feeding groups. The order Pulmonata dominated the macroinvertebrates sampled with 34.3% relative abundance while the lowest were Rhynchobdellida and Lepidoptera with 0.3% each. The high abundance of mollusks in the lake is probably an indication of absence of a predator. It is thus recommended that a fish species be introduced to convert these mollusks into fish biomass. This will enhance the economic gains and reduce the risk of bilhazia infestation since the host snail exists within the lake.
Abstract: In an attempt to describe the benthic macroinvertebrate assemblage of Lake Kenyatta and recommend possible interventions for sustainable management, sampling was done at different stations using an Eckman grab and a scoop net. At each station, six samples were taken (three grabs and three scoops). The samples were washed using a 300µm sieve, sorted...
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Spatial and Temporal Changes in the Phytoplankton Community in a Cascaded Reservoir System: San Juan River, Queretaro, Mexico
Maria del Pilar Saldana-Fabela,
Maricela Martinez-Jimenez,
Maria Antonieta Gomez-Balandra
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
244-251
Received:
29 August 2014
Accepted:
13 September 2014
Published:
30 September 2014
Abstract: Alteration of natural flows with dams for water harvesting has caused changes in water quality and habitat of biological communities. In Mexico there are more than 4000 reservoirs, which in some cases are located in the same river system, resulting in a cascading effect from the release of water up to downstream reservoirs, decreasing the system connectivity which depends on hydraulic management. The phytoplankton community was characterized to determine the temporal and spatial variations in a cascade system. In places where connectivity is maintained, diatom species were presented, while in reservoirs had a clear dominance of chlorophytes and cyanophytes related to nutrient enrichment and wastewater discharges. A total of 112 species were identified, 38% were Chlorophyceae, 35% Bacillariophyceae, 13% Cyanophyceae and 13% Euglenophyceae. Microcystis aeruginosa and Anabaena variabilis (cianophytes) were abundant in reservoirs. Phytoplankton succession indicated the presence of species with characteristics strategists C in autumn and winter, replaced by R strategists species in spring. The canonical correlation analysis between environmental variables and species presence was related to concentrations of sulfates, total suspended solids, nitrates and phosphates.
Abstract: Alteration of natural flows with dams for water harvesting has caused changes in water quality and habitat of biological communities. In Mexico there are more than 4000 reservoirs, which in some cases are located in the same river system, resulting in a cascading effect from the release of water up to downstream reservoirs, decreasing the system co...
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Transfer of Natural Radionuclides from Soil to Plants and Grass in the Western North of West Bank Environment- Palestine
Mohannad Mohammed Jazzar,
Khalil Mohammed Thabayneh
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
252-258
Received:
25 September 2014
Accepted:
30 September 2014
Published:
20 October 2014
Abstract: The transfer factors of radionuclides (226Ra, 238U, 232Th, 40K and fallout radionuclides 137Cs) from soil to plant and grass collected from the north-west of West Bank environment – Palestine were measured. For soil to plant, the average transfer factor (TF) values were found to be 0.60, 0.50, 0.31, and 1.70 for 226Ra, 238U, 232Th and 40K respectively. For soil to grass the TF values were found to be 1.26, 1.12, 1.15 and 1.20 for 226Ra, 238U, 232Th and 40K respectively. For soil to plant, the average transfer factor values were found to be 0.27 for fallout radionuclides 137Cs. The TF showed wide variation in different species, while a few species of plants indicated preferential uptake of these radionuclides. TF average values from soil to grass were found to be higher than from soil to plant. Results showed that part of the total 226Ra in agricultural soils were from phosphate fertilizers. Because the species of plants were directly involved in the human food chain, information on the concentration level and transfer of radionuclides from soil to plants will provide important data for the environmental risk assessment in such zones. These results have been compared with those of different countries of the world.
Abstract: The transfer factors of radionuclides (226Ra, 238U, 232Th, 40K and fallout radionuclides 137Cs) from soil to plant and grass collected from the north-west of West Bank environment – Palestine were measured. For soil to plant, the average transfer factor (TF) values were found to be 0.60, 0.50, 0.31, and 1.70 for 226Ra, 238U, 232Th and 40K respectiv...
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Assessment of Heavy Metal Pollution of Effluents from Three Food Industries within Onitsha in Anambra State, Nigeria
Nwosu Udoka Lovelyn,
Ajiwe Vincent Ishmael Egbulezu,
Okoye Patrick-Anthony Chudi
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
259-265
Received:
22 September 2014
Accepted:
30 September 2014
Published:
20 October 2014
Abstract: This work investigated the heavy metal pollution of effluents from three food industries within Onitsha in Anambra State, Nigeria. The wastewater samples were analyzed for heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Results showed that the mean levels of all the heavy metals were above the limit allowed by the Nigeria Federal Ministry of Environment in industrial effluent. Concentrations of heavy metals obtained were higher in the dry season than in the rainy season. Hg in the effluents were in the order of Life0.05) between rainy and dry season. Analysis of variance showed that apart from arsenic, the concentrations of Hg, Fe, Pb, Cr, Cd were not significant (p>0.05) when the effluents were compared to each other. Nevertheless, the pollution index of the heavy metals showed significant pollution by these toxicants.
Abstract: This work investigated the heavy metal pollution of effluents from three food industries within Onitsha in Anambra State, Nigeria. The wastewater samples were analyzed for heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Results showed that the mean levels of all the heavy metals were above the limit allowed by the Nigeria Federal Ministry o...
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Computer Simulation of Sea Water Pollution
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
266-271
Received:
11 October 2014
Accepted:
27 October 2014
Published:
30 October 2014
Abstract: In this paper, we proposed to use the surface water modeling system to sea water spreading simulation. We used SMS8.1 with GFGEN, RMA2 and RMA4. We assumed that there is no other effect except physical process in the sea water, and simulated the divergence of water pollution. This approach can be used in any other sea water pollution analysis. Also we showed general sequence of sea water pollution analysis by example images.
Abstract: In this paper, we proposed to use the surface water modeling system to sea water spreading simulation. We used SMS8.1 with GFGEN, RMA2 and RMA4. We assumed that there is no other effect except physical process in the sea water, and simulated the divergence of water pollution. This approach can be used in any other sea water pollution analysis. Also...
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Distribution of Aliphatic and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHS) in Coastal Sediment from the Ngoua River (Douala, Cameroon)
Jessie Ekoka Christelle Solange,
Ngassoum Martin Benoit,
Ze Bilo’o Philemon
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
272-278
Received:
10 October 2014
Accepted:
29 October 2014
Published:
10 November 2014
Abstract: This paper reports the identification and quantification of 15EPA-PAHs in the sediments samples collected in Ngoua River, Douala, Cameroon. PAH and n-alkanes were separated by using a chromatographic column, identified and quantified by using Gas Chromatography (GC/FID). The total concentration ranged from 140.42 µg/g to 229.47 µg/g dry matters during the rainy season and from 48.89 µg/g to 333.49 µg/g dry matters during the dry season. All samples showed the predominance of high Molecular Weight (HMW) PAHs due to industrial activities. At the upstream, the concentrations of PAHs were systematically lower than those found downstream indicating an influence of Nettoycam Company in the local pollution by PAHs. Principal component analysis (PCA) also showed remarkable differences of characteristics of samples collected upstream and downstream of Nettoycam Company, samples location and also of samples from rainy and dry seasons.
Abstract: This paper reports the identification and quantification of 15EPA-PAHs in the sediments samples collected in Ngoua River, Douala, Cameroon. PAH and n-alkanes were separated by using a chromatographic column, identified and quantified by using Gas Chromatography (GC/FID). The total concentration ranged from 140.42 µg/g to 229.47 µg/g dry matters dur...
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A Precise Methodology Integrates Low-Cost GPS Data and GIS for Monitoring Groundwater Quality Parameters in Majmaah Region, KSA
Sameh S. Ahmed,
Mahmoud T. Azmi
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
279-288
Received:
25 October 2014
Accepted:
7 November 2014
Published:
20 November 2014
Abstract: GIS/GPS mapping technology provides a very cost effective method of meeting the guidelines and calculating the total information required for decision makers. This paper aims to integrate Geographic Information System (GIS) and data acquired using low-cost GPS in one system and develop a precise methodology that is reliable for environmental studies at Majmaah region. The research focuses on monitoring and mapping the groundwater quality parameters at the study area. Portable GPS instrument with reasonable accuracy was used to measure the coordinates of non-defined water wells in the form of the latitudes and longitudes. A methodology for using these data to locate those positions accurately and merge them in GIS system was developed. The system was developed mainly for environmental studies (characterization of groundwater quality parameters) using a satellite image and the calculated GPS data aiming to produce a dynamic system that is capable of map the changes in any groundwater parameter on different times. However, other uses could be: defining the contaminated soil zones, and the same for flooding areas, as GIS will help in selecting the most appropriate locations to dig new wells, construct dams or produce sensitivity environmental maps for the study area. The resulted contour environmental maps can be helpful to illustrate a clear picture and quantities of needed areas for preservation. The system can be updated and modified easily and remains useful and helpful for supporting the decision making to identify, monitor and plan other environmental studies at the region.
Abstract: GIS/GPS mapping technology provides a very cost effective method of meeting the guidelines and calculating the total information required for decision makers. This paper aims to integrate Geographic Information System (GIS) and data acquired using low-cost GPS in one system and develop a precise methodology that is reliable for environmental studie...
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Seasonal and Temporal Changes in Nitrous Oxide Emission with Fertilizer Application in Rice Ecosystem of North Bank Plain Agroclimatic Zone of North East India
Boby Gogoi,
Kushal Kumar Baruah
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
289-296
Received:
10 October 2014
Accepted:
27 October 2014
Published:
20 November 2014
Abstract: Fertilizer dosage can influence nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in rice (Oryza sativa L.) fields. An experiment was conducted to find out the temporal and seasonal variations in N2O emissions under different doses of fertilizers and to identify the best fertilizer combination for lower N2O emission and adequate yield potential. Two rice varieties Phorma (local cultivar) and Luit (high yielding variety) were grown, with nine different fertilizer treatments. N2O fluxes were measured by a closed chamber technique. Temporal fluxes coincide with fertilizer application. Higher seasonal N2O emission (Esif) of 224.05 mg N2O-N/m2 (in Phorma) and 182.16 mg N2O-N/m2 (in Luit) was observed in treatment T9 (45:22:22 N-P2O5-K2O kg/ha as urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash + farm yard manure). Whereas, lowest emission was recorded in T2 (35:18:18 N-P2O5-K2O kg/ha as urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash). N2O emission also showed significant positive correlations with soil nitrate-N and soil organic carbon. The fertilizer dose N, P2O5, K2O @ 40: 20: 20 kg/ha as urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash (T1) without farm yard manure was found to be suitable for sustaining productivity and lower N2O emission in this zone.
Abstract: Fertilizer dosage can influence nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in rice (Oryza sativa L.) fields. An experiment was conducted to find out the temporal and seasonal variations in N2O emissions under different doses of fertilizers and to identify the best fertilizer combination for lower N2O emission and adequate yield potential. Two rice varieties Ph...
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