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ID: 63307
Title: A Practive faeces collection protocol for multidisciplinary research in wildlife science
Author: Suvankar Biswas, Supriya Bhatt, Shrutarshi Paul, Shrushti Modi, Tista Ghosh, Bilal Habib, Parag Nigam, Gautam Talukdar, Bivash Pandav and Samrat Mondol
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (11) 1878-1885 (2019)
Subject: A Practive faeces collection protocol for multidisciplinary research in wildlife science
Keywords: Non-invasive wildlife research, species biology, dry sampling, variable habitats, field logistics
Abstract: Faecal samples have become an important non-invasive source of information in wildlife biology and ecological research. Despite regular use faeces; there is no universal protocol available for faeces collection and storage to answer various questions in wildlife biology. In this study we collected 1408 faeces from ten different species using a dry sampling approach and achieved 77.49 % and 75.25 % success rate in mitochondrial and nuclear market amplifications respectively. We suggest a universal framework to the same samples to answer different questions. This protocol provides an easy, quick and cheap option to collect non-invasive samples from species living in different environmental conditions to answer multidisciplinary questions in wildlife biology.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Storr, G., Microscopic analysis of faeces , a technique for ascertaining the diet of herbivorous mammals. Aust.J. Biol.Sci., 1961, 14, 157-164. O’Brien, S.J. and Jhonson, W.E., Big cat genomics.Annu Rev.Genomics Hum., Genet, 2005, 6, 407-429.
Literature cited 2: Broquet, T., Ray, N., Petit, E. and Fryxell, J.M., Genetic isolation by distance and landscape connectivity in the American marten (Martes Americana).Landsc.Ecol.,2006, 21, 877-889. Hebert, P.D.N., Penton, E.H., Burns, J.M., Janzen, D.H., and Hallwachs, W., Ten species in one: DNA barcoding reveals cryptic species in the neotropical skipper butterfly astrapttes fulgerator.Proc..Natl., Acad., Sci., USA, 2004, 101, 14812-14817.

ID: 63306
Title: Regional liquefaction susceptibility mapping in the Himalayas using geospatial data and AHP technique
Author: Ramesh Pudi, Tapas R.Martha, Priyom Roy, K. Vinod Kumar and P.Rama Rao
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (11) 1868-1877 (2019)
Subject: Regional liquefaction susceptibility mapping in the Himalayas using geospatial data and AHP technique
Keywords: Analytical hierarchy process, earthquakes, geospatial data, liquefaction susceptibility
Abstract: Liquefaction susceptibility (LS) assessment is a necessary input for seismic zonation studies.LS can be done using geospatial models by integration of thematic layers. In this study, we have used analytical hierarchy process for integration of thematic layers (e.g., water table depth, peak horizontal acceleration, etc). To generate a regional LS map for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh in India. The final map was classified as liquefaction-likely, liquefaction-possible and liquefaction-not likely zones. Results show Doon valley and Himalayan foothills are more prone to L S than the higher Himalayas.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Youd, T.L., Liquefaction, flow and associated ground failure. Circular 688, US Geological Survey, 1973. Sonmez, H. and Gokceoglu, C.A., Liquefaction severity index suggested for engineering practice.Environ.Geol.2005, 48 (1), 81-91.
Literature cited 2: Seed, H.B.and Idriss, I.M.Simpliied procedure evaluating soil liquefaction potential.J.Soil Mech.Found.Div., ASCE, 1971, 97 (9), 1249-1273. Iwasaki, T., Tokida, K., Tatsuoka F., Watanabe, S., Yasuda, S., and Sato, H., Microzonation for soil liquefaction potential using simplified methods. In Proceedings of the third International Earthquake Microzonation Conference, 1982, vool.3, pp.1319-133.

ID: 63305
Title: Effects of laser irradiation on the microstructure and surface morphology of zinc oxide doped with different additives
Author: M.Y. Helali, M.M. Saadeldin and Makram Ibrahim
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (11) 1818-1828 (2019)
Subject: Effects of laser irradiation on the microstructure and surface morphology of zinc oxide doped with different additives
Keywords: Laser irradiation, microstructure, surface morphology, X-ray diffraction, zinc oxide
Abstract: Zinc oxide (ZnO) disc samples doped with copper oxide as the main impurity were prepared and irradiated for 2 min by 1.064 μm semi-train of 20 ps pulses having energy of80 mJ in a spot size of 5 mm diameter and average pulse power density of about 1.3 GW/cm2.X-ray diffraction reveals a large increase in the average dislocation as it is inversely proportional to the square of the crystallite size. Scanning electron microscopy images show the presence of inter-granular phase and CuO particles between the ZnO grain boundaries. They also show a noticeable decrease of ZnO grain size after laser irradiation for 2 min due to grain melting. Atomic force microscopy shows increase in the roughness after laser irradiation. The laser irradiation of samples also resulted in the destruction of ZnO surface hexagonal structure with large increase of inter-granular spaces, which may be due to grain melting. The laser-induced grain melting also resulted in increasing roughness and in forming pores, cracks and particulates with dimensions comparable to average grain size. The binding energies of Zn 2p, Cu 2p, Cr 2p and O 1s core levels of ZnO visitor surfaces were determined for one sample by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Overschelde, O.V., et al. J. Appl. Phys., 2008, 104, 103106. Overschelde, O.V., Guisbiers, G. and Wantelet, M., J. Phys. Chem, C, 2009, 113, 15343-15345.
Literature cited 2: Lu, H. et al. Effects of laser irradiation on the structure and optical properties of ZnO thin films.Mater.Lett, 2010, 64, 2072-2075. Pauleau, I., Material Surface Processing by Directed Energy Techniques, Elsevier, 2005.

ID: 63304
Title: Coconut inflorescence sap
Author: R. Sudha, V.Niral, K.B.Hebbar and K. Samsudeen
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (11) 1809-1817 (2019)
Subject: Coconut inflorescence sap
Keywords: Coconut inflorescence sap, diversification, neera, tapping, value addition
Abstract: Coconut inflorescence sap (neera) is the sweet, oyster-white coloured sap collected from the immature coconut spadix (inflorescence). It is a natural health drink and a rich source of sugars, proteins, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins. Besides being used as a nutritional drink, it is used as a raw material for value-added products like natural coconut sugar, palm syrup, jiggery and honey, which have high potential in domestic and international markets. Frequent price fluctuations of major products like nut, copra, oil etc, call for product diversification in coconut farming. Hence neera/coconut inflorescence sap provides a huge opportunity for higher income to the coconut farmers, making coconut farming a profitable venture. In neera tapping, many factors have to be considered to obtain economic benefit. This review covers some of the factors influencing the neera quantity and quality. This information will help researchers plan research strategies to improve the sap characteristics for commercial utilization.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Coconutboard.nic.in Jose, T.K., Neera for the revival of coconut economy. Indian coconut J., 2013, 56 (1), 2-3
Literature cited 2: Nathanael, W.R.N., Toddy yield from coconut palms in Ceylon Ceylon Cocon.Q uartz., 1955, 6, 8-16. Magat, S.S., Intercropping and toddy/sugar production in coconut-based farming systems: Posssible integration with germplasm conservation and varietal improvement. In Promoting multi-purpose uses and competitiveness of the coconut. Proceedings of Workshop (eds Batutal, P.A., Ramanatha Rao, V. And Bong C.)., 26-29 September 1996, Chumphon,IPGRI-APO, Serdang. Thailand, 1998, pp.57-146.

ID: 63303
Title: India’s evergreen revolution in cereals
Author: O.P. Yadav, D.V. Singh, B.S. Dhillon and T. Mohapatra
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (11) 1805-1808 (2019)
Subject: India’s evergreen revolution in cereals
Keywords: Cereals, crop productivity, green revolution, improved cultivars
Abstract: The term “Green Revolution” (GR) is used to highlight an unprecedented increase in wheat production in India during 1968-72.The critics of GR allege that there is technology fatigue, especially after 1980s.The present study was undertaken to analyse the trends in productivity of major cereals and compare yield gains during the GR era and post-GR era. The period of 68 years since 1950 was divided in four phases: pre-GR era (1950-66) reffered to as phase I, GR era (1967-83) as phase II, post-GR era 1984-2000 as phase III and post-GR era of 2001-17 as opphase IV. The annual rate of gain in productivity (kg/ha/yr) in each phase was estimated by linear regression. The annual gain in wheat productivity in Phase III (53.1 kg/ha) was 30 % higher than that in the GR era (41.0 kg/ha) .In rice , the productivity gains increased consistently :Annual gain in phase III (32.3 kg/ha) and phase iv (41.6 kg/ha) was 68 % to 11 % respectively, higher than that in the GR era (19.2 kg/ha) .The rate of gain in productivity o maize and pearl millet in phase III and IV was 188-530 % higher in comparison to the GR phase. The progress can largely be attributed to development and adoption of improved cultivars with higher yield potential and crop management technologies. The analysis provided conclusive evidence of India experiencing evergreen revolution in major cereals.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Byerlee, D., Modern varieties, productivity and sustainability: recent experience and emerging challenges .World Dev., 1996, 24, 697-718. Singh, I.J., Rai, K.N. and Karwasrea, J.C.Regional variations in agricultural performance in India.Indian J. Agric. Econ., 1997, 52, 374-386.
Literature cited 2: Pingali, P.L.Green revolution: impacts, limits, and the path ahead .Proc.N.Y.Acad.Sci., 2012.109, 12302-12308. Narayanamoorthy, A., Declaration in agricultural growth: technology fatigue or policy fatiue? Econ.Polit.Wkly, 2007, 42, 2375-2377

ID: 63302
Title: Fishers’ livelihood diversification in Bhagirathi-Hooghly stretch of Ganga River in India
Author: Arun Pandit, Anjana Ekka, B.K.Das, S.Samanta, Lokenath Chakraborty and Rohan K.Raman
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1748-1752 (2019)
Subject: Fishers’ livelihood diversification in Bhagirathi-Hooghly stretch of Ganga River in India
Keywords: Diversification, Ganga, India, Occupation, Riverine fisher
Abstract: For the resource-poor fishers, livelihood diversification is a strategy to cope with the uncertainties and inadequateness of fisheries as a profession. The present study is an attempt to assess the socio-economic conditions together with livelihood diversification of fisherman households of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly stretch of Ganga River. Data were collected by personally interviewing 500 fishermen from Sagar to Farakka (560 km stretch) in West Bengal using survey schedules in 2016.Analysis of data indicated that the socio-economic conditions of fisherman households were not encouraging. Fishing is the main occupation of around 88.60 % of fishes and overall, fishing contributes about 70.30 % to the total income of the family. Average number of income-generating activities per household ranged from 1.43 in the lower stretch to 1.79 in the upper stretch. Further, it was found that not only the average household income and number of income sources were limited; their level of diversification was also quite low. The monthly income of a household was found to be Rs 9391.The income is higher in the lower stretch because of higher catch and high value fish in the catch. Fishery as an only profession is unable to provide a decent life. The study also revealed that among other factors. The Simpson index contributes positively and significantly towards per capita income of the fisher households. However, in the absence of suitable alternative opportunities, the resource is under pressure. Government needs to develop appropriate strategies to facilitate successful livelihood diversification. Facilities may be created for non-fishing activities like fish marketing kiosks, cloth weaving facilities, agro-processing in fruit orchard areas, e-rickshaws and so on. Fishers may be trained in other income-generating activities like carpentry, embroidery, dress making, driving, etc. for better livelihood.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: SANDRP; https://sandrp-wordpress.com/2014/08/30/dams-fish-and-fishing-communities-of-the-ganga-glimpses-of-the-gangetic-fishes-printer/ Brugere, C., Holvoet, K. and Allison, E., Livelihood diversification in coastal and inland fishing communities: misconceptions, evidence and implications for fisheries management. Working paper, Sustainable Fisheries Livelihoods Programme (SFLP), Rome, FAO/DFID, 2008.
Literature cited 2: FAO and World Bank, Farming Systems and Poverty-Improving Farmer’s Livelihoods in a Changing World, Rome and Wshington, DC, 2001. Jan, H., Wangila, B. and Degen, A., Livelihoods and income diversification among artisanal fishers on the Kenyan coast. In African Studies, 2008, vol.7, pp.255-272, E-ISBN: 9789047442660.

ID: 63301
Title: Mineral chemistry perspective of Nain ophiolite melange, Central Iran
Author: Alireza Eslami, Jyotisankar Ray, Madhuparna Paul, Sonia Sarkar, Mousumi Banerjee, Moussa Noghreyan and Payel Dey
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1742-1747 (2019)
Subject: Mineral chemistry perspective of Nain ophiolite melange, Central Iran
Keywords: Amphibole barometry, mineral chemistry, opholite melange, Orogenic setting, quad pyroxene.
Abstract: The present study documents detailed mineral chemistry perspective of Nain opholite melange (NOM) of Central Iran with an aim of deciphering the mineral systematic and understanding geothermobarometric equilibration. The NOM covers ~600 km2 and is located at the northwest margin of Central Iranian Microcontinental Block.NOM is represented by a sheared, tectonized and serpentinized peridotite intruded by coarse-grained pegmatitic gabbroic dykes, layered gabbro, sheeted dolerite dykes (with typical rodingite alteration) and pillow basalts. Plagioclase in pillow basalt is albitic and indicates its specific affinity, while pyroxene is typically quad pyroxene ( augite to diopside) ,Amphiboles belong to calcic group and range from actinolite to magnesio hornblende.Ilmenite is the characteristic opaque phase.Clinopyroxene thermometry records a temperature span of 1100-1300ºC,while amphibole thermometry records 979-1145ºC.Two-feldspar thermometry also records a similar thermometric range. Amphibole barometry shows higher pressure of equilibration for mantle pegmatite in general and a very low equilibration pressure for sheeted dyke. Pyroxene compositions typically indicate a calc-alkaline basaltic (orogenic) parentage. OM signifies Iherzolite ophiolite type in a chromite-free environment and it is analogous to an idealized ophiolite succession but has been emplaced in the form of discrete tectonic melange.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ghazi, J.M., Raghoshay, M, Shafaii Moghadam, H. and Moazzen, M., Geochemistry of Gabbroic pockets of a mantle sequence in the Nain ophiolite (Central Iran) :Constraints on petrogenesis and tectonic setting of the ophiolite.J.Mineral .Geochem.,2010, 187, 49-62. Dilek, Y., and Furnes, H., Ophiolite genesis and global tectonics: geochemical and tectonic fingerprinting of ancient oceanic lithosphere. Geol.Soc.Am. Bull.,20111, 123, 387-411.
Literature cited 2: Shojaat, B., Hassanipak, A.A., Mobasher, K. And Ghazi, A.M., Petrology, Geochemistry and tectonics of the Sabzevar ophiolite, North Central Iran.J. Asian Earth Sci., 2003, 21, 1053-1067. Takin, M., Iranian geology and continental drift in the Middle East. Nature, 1972, 23, 147-150.

ID: 63300
Title: Reducing wing observability to radar using microserrations at the leading edge.
Author: Karri Sai Krishna Reddy and Avijit Chatterjee
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1731-1734 (2019)
Subject: Reducing wing observability to radar using microserrations at the leading edge.
Keywords: Computational electromagnetic, leading edge, radar cross-section, serrations, wing observability
Abstract: Secretions are found in nature on the leading edge (LE) of bird wings and whale flippers. These serrations reduce fight noise and improve aerodynamic performance. This has inspired LE serrations to be incorporated in the design of aircraft wings and turbine blades. LE of wings can contribute significantly to observability of aircraft by radar due to LE diffraction of horizontally polarized incident electromagnetic (EM) waves. Serrations at the wing LE can also be used to reduce observability to radar under such circumstances. In the present study, the method of equivalent currents is used to analyze the effect of microserrations on an infinitesimally thin metallic delta wing. It is shown that microserrations at the wing LE can be effectively used to control backscatter due to diffraction of EM waves at the wing LE.LE serrations, in general, work by introducing randomness in the interaction of wing LE with incident fluid flow or EM field.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Lilley, G.M., A study of the silent flight of the owl. In 4th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference, Toulouse, France, AIAA Paper 1998-2340, 1998. Fish, F.E., Webber, P.W., Murray, M. M and Howle, L.E., The tubercles on humpback whales’flipper: application of bioinspired technology.Integr.Comp.Biol. 2011, 51,203-213.
Literature cited 2: Choi, H., Park, H., Sagong, W. And Lee, S.-I, Biomimetic flow control based on morphological features of living creatures. Phys. Fluids, 2012, 24, 121302-1-12130220. Hersh, A.S., Soderman, P.Tand Hayden, R.E., Investigation of acoustic effects of leading-edge serrations on airfoils.J.Aircraft, 1974, 11, 197-202.

ID: 63299
Title: Large losses in glacier are and water availability by the end of twenty-first century under high emission scenario, Satluj basin, Himalaya
Author: Veena Prasad, nil V.Kulkarni,S Pradeep,S. Pratibha,Sayli A.Tawde,Tejal Shirsat,A.R.Arya,Andrew Orr and Daniel Bannister
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1721-1730 (2019)
Subject: Large losses in glacier area and water availability by the end of twenty-first century under high emission scenario, Satluj basin, Himalaya
Keywords: Climate change, glacier, glacier melt runoff, Himalaya, mass balance, Satluj basin, water availability
Abstract: Glaciers in the Sutluj river basin are likely to lose 53% and 81% of area by the end of the century, if climate change followed RCP 8.5 scenario of CNM-CM5 and GFDL-CM3 models respectively. The large variability in area loss can be due to difference in temperature and precipitation projections. Presently, Sutluj basin has approximately 2000 glaciers, 1426 sq.km glacier area and 62.3 Gt glacier stored water. The current mean specific mass balance is -0.40 m.w.e.a-1. This will change to -0.42 and -1.1 m.w.e.a-1 by 2090, if climate data of CNRM-CM5 and GFDL-CM3 are used respectively. We have used an extreme scenario of GFDL-CM3 model to assess the changes in the contribution of glacier melt to the Bhakra reservoir. Mass balance model suggests that glaciers are contributing 2km3a-1 out of 14 km3 of water. This will increase to 2.2 km3 a-1 by 2050, and then reduce to 1.5 km3 a-1 by the ends of the century. In addition, loss in glacier are by the end of century, will also increase the vulnerability of mountain communities, suggesting need for better adaptation and water management practices.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Food agricultural Organization, Irrigation in Southern and Eastern Asia figures AQUASTAT Survey-2011, 2012. FAO Water Report no.37,2012, pp.129-138. Immerzeel, W.W., van Beek, L.PH. Marc, F.P. and Bierkens, M.F.P., Climate change will affect the Asian water towers. Science, 2010, 328, 1382-1385.
Literature cited 2: Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) Report, 2016; http://bbmb.gov.in/writeraddata/Portal/Reports/15_1_BBMB-ANNUAL-REPORT-2015-16E.pdf. Dharmadhikary, S., Unravelling Bhakra.Econ.Polit.Wkly, 2005, 41 (3), 1-10.

ID: 63298
Title: Development of 90GHz microwave radiometer sensor in snow/ice studies over the Himalaya as input for disaster monitoring
Author: Vasudha, M.P.G. Raju and N. Thangadurai
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1715-1720 (2019)
Subject: Development of 90GHz microwave radiometer sensor in snow/ice studies over the Himalaya as input for disaster monitoring
Keywords: Disaster monitoring, microwave radiometer, remote sensing, snow/ice studies
Abstract: In this study, a sensor is designed based on a basic radiometer system at 18.8 GHZ for ground-based testing and operations. Initially a generic radiometer will be designed in total power radiometer configuration (Phase 1) that is more appropriate for remote sensing platforms for operations in a campaign mode, such as an airborne mission. The same radiometer is proposed to be modified as a null-balancing Dicke radiometer (Phase 2) that is more suitable for long-term field operations over a range of temperatures and environmental conditions. This system is also useful for long-term propagation experiments in communication. The development of a millimetre-wave radiometer is in several hardware realization phases identified as Phases 1 and 2.The present proposal is expected to facilitate realization and utilization of microwave radiometers for space applications. The team at Jain University, Bengaluru will complement activities at ISRO in remote sensing applications through any campaigns proposed by the latter. Any future increasemental development activities such as augmentation at higher frequencies as well testing newer concepts such as phased-array antenna for electronic at very high frequencies, etc. may be attempted based on the trends in technology/hardware.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kent, E.C. and Kaplan, A., toward estimating climatic rends in SST. Part III: systematic biases.Proc.J.Atmos.Ocean.Technol., 2006, 23 (3), 487-500. Gloersen, P.and Barath, F.T., A scanning multichannel micro-wave radiometer for nimbus-G and SeaSat-A.Proc.IEEEJ.Oceanic Eng., 1977, 2,172-178.
Literature cited 2: Ulaby, F., Moore, R.K. and Fung, A.K.Microwave Remote Sensing: Active and Passive, vol.II.Radar Remote Sensing and Surface Scattering and EmissionTheory, Addison-WesleyPublishing Company, United States, 1982. Ulaby, F., Moore, R.K. and Fung, A.K., Microwave Remote Sensing: Active and Passive, vol.II. Radar Remote Sensing and Surface Scattering and Emission Theory, Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, United States, 1982.

ID: 63297
Title: Evaluation of the decision-making process for urban public transport in India: a Delphi approach
Author: Nitin Lambat, Vijay Kapse and Chandra Sabnani
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1706-1714 (2019)
Subject: Evaluation of the decision-making process for urban public transport in India: a Delphi approach
Keywords: Delphi, India urban transport, MRTS India, public transport, urban transport
Abstract: The Government of India has proposed and constructed various mass raid transit projects, such as metro rail and bus rapid transit system (BRTS) projects, under the purview of the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP), Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JnNURM) and other such schemes. However, with less experience in these newly proposed and constructed systems, the projects are surrounded by controversies and doubts. Many questions have been raised regarding the decision-making process for selecting mass rapid transit systems (MRTS) modes. This study attempts to check these doubts and identify other issues associated with the decision-making process of selecting modes of public transport (MRTS) in India. The study uses the Delphi method and represents a successful application of the approach in urban transport planning. The study identifies 12b issues and their priority in the decision-making process of selecting a public transport (MRTS) mode. The study concludes that the prevailing situations in decision-making process in India contradict the guidelines suggested in NUTP.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ministry of Urban Development G., National Urban Transport Policy, 2006; http://urbanindia.nic.in/policies/TransportPolicy.pdf Agarwal, O.P., Urban transport. In India Infrastructure Report 2006-Urban Infrastructure, New Delhi, Oxford University Press,006, pp.106-129; http://www.idfc.com/pdf/report/IIR-2006.pdf
Literature cited 2: Pucher,J., Korattyswaroopam,N.and Itterah,N., The crisis of public transport in India: overwhelming needs but limited resources.J.Publ.Transp.,2004,7 (3), 1-20. Pucher, J., Korattysswaroopam, N. and Ittyerah, N., The crisis of public transport in India: overwhelming needs but limited resources.J.Publ.Transp., 2004, 7 (3), 1-20.

ID: 63296
Title: A GIS-based approach for radiation risk assessment around a thermal power plant towards adopting remedial measures
Author: Kajori Parial, S.Mukherjee, A.R.Gosh and D.Sengupta
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1683-1689 (2019)
Subject: A GIS-based approach for radiation risk assessment around a thermal power plant towards adopting remedial measures
Keywords: Geographic information system, radiation risk analysis, remedial measures, surface radiation, thermal power plant
Abstract: Coal combustion in thermal power plants releases ash, which is reported to cause adverse health hazards in humans and other organisms. Owing to the presence of radionuclides, it is also considered as a potential radiation hazard. In this study, based on the surface radiation measurements and relevant ancillary data, excepted radiation risk zones were identified with regard to human population residing near a thermal power plant using GIS. With population density as the vulnerability determining criterion, about 20 % of the study area was in ‘high’ risk zone and another 20% in the ‘low’ risk zone. The remaining 60 % was under ‘medium’ risk zone. Based on the findings of this study, greenbelt locations have been proposed as remedial measures.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Amin,Y.M.,Khandaker,M.U.,Shyen,A.K.S.,Mahat,R.H.,Nor,R.M.and Bradley, D.A. Radionuclide emissions from a coal-fired power plant.Appl.Radiat.Isot.,2013,80,109-116,doi:10.1016/j.apradiso.2013.06.014. Nalbandian, H., Trace Element Emissions from Coal, 2012; IEA Clean Coal Centre, CCC/203, ISBN 9789290295235.
Literature cited 2: Sahu,S.K.Tiwari,M.,Bhangare,R.C.,Ajmal,P.Y.and Pandit,G.G.,Partioning behaviour of natural radionuclides during combustion of coal in thermal power plants.Environ.Forensiscs,2017,18,36-43; doi:10.1080/15275922.2016.1230910. Flues, M., Camargo, I.M.C., Silva, P.S.C. and Mazzilli, B.P., Radioactivity of coal and ashes from Figueira coal power plant in Brazil.J.Radioanal.Nucl.Chem., 2016.1230910.

ID: 63295
Title: Regional models assessing region-specific determinants of low birth weight in India
Author: Dharmendra Kumar Dubey and Dilip C. Nath
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1674-1682 (2019)
Subject: Regional models assessing region-specific determinants of low birth weight in India
Keywords: Heaping, low birth weight, regression models, region-specific determinants
Abstract: Low birth weight (LBW) is defined as birth weight less than 2.5 kg.LBW infants remain at a relatively higher risk of mortality than those with normal birth weight. This is still a major public health problem in developing countries like India. Data from the third round of the National Family Health Survey were used for this study. The multivariable logistic regression model demonstrated a significant association between the reporting of birth weight, and education level and financial status. Furthermore, as the rate of parity increased, the odds for reporting of birth weights decreased in the northern, central and eastern regions of India.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Amin, Y.M., Khandaker, M.U., Sheyn, A.K.S., Mahat, R.H., Nor, R.M .and Bradley, D.A. Radionuclide emissions from a coal-fired power plant.Appl.Radiat.Isot.,2013,80,109-116,doi:10.1016/j.apradiso.2013.06.014. Nalbandian, H., Trace element Emissions from Coal, 2012; IEA Clean Coal Centre, CCC/203, ISBN 9789290295235.
Literature cited 2: Sahu, S.K., Tiwari, M., Bhangare, R.C., Ajmal, P.Y. and Pandit, G.G., Partioning behaviour of natural radionuclides during combustion of coal in thermal power plants.Environ.Forensics, 2017, 18, 36-43; doi:10.1080/15275922.2016.1230910. Flues, M., Catmargo, I.M.C., Silva, P.S.C. and Mazzilli, B.P., Radioactivity of coal and ashes from Figueira coal power plant in Brazil.J.Radioanal.Nucl.Chem. 2006, 270,597-602.

ID: 63294
Title: Taming the master: SWI/SNF chromatin remodeller as a therapeutic target in cancer
Author: Murali Dharan Bashyam, Srinivas Animireddy and Pratyusha Bala
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1653-1665 (2019)
Subject: Taming the master: SWI/SNF chromatin remodeller as a therapeutic target in cancer
Keywords: ARIDIA, Chromatin remodeller, SWI/SNF, therapeutic targeting
Abstract: Eukaryotic cells use histone modifiers and chromatin remodelers to facilitate protein DNA interactions in the nucleus; an important requisite for regulating several cardinals nuclear processes including transcription, replication, DNA repair and recombination, etc. The SWI/SNF complex is the most well-studied chromatin remodeller and is conserved from yeast to mammals. The complex is recruited to specific DNA sites, where it uses energy from ATP hydrolysis to catalyse nucleosome sliding or histone eviction from DNA. Mutational inactivation of SWI/SNF components has been identified in neurological syndromes and in several cancers. Recent deep sequencing studies have revealed as SWI/SNF mutation frequency of 20 % in cancer genomes. In addition to mutations in tumour samples, extensive studies on cell lines and animal models have revealed tumour suppressive features for many individual SWI/SNF components. Thus, components iof the complex are classified as tumour suppressors. Interestingly, however, majority of mutations cause incomplete inactivation of the complex, leaving behind a ‘residual’ complex that can be targeted for therapy. In addition, characterization of multiple of multiple roles of SWI/SNF components has revealed several therapeutic options. The current review summarizes the multi-faceted therapeutic opportunities for tumour bearing mutations in genes, encoding SWI/SNF components.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Narlikar, G.J., Fan, H.Y. and Kingston, R.E., Cooperation between complexes that regulate chromatin structure and transcription. Cell, 2002, 108, 475-487. Wilson, B.G. and Roberts, C.W., Swi/snf nucleosome remodelers and cancer. Nat.Rev. Cancer, 2011, 11, 481-492.
Literature cited 2: Saha, A., Witmeyer, J. and Cairns, B.R., Chromatin remodelling: the industrial revolution of DNA around histones.Nat.Rev.Mol.ell Biol., 2006, 7,437-447. Ho,L.,Jothi,R., Roman,J.L.,Cui,K., Zhao,K.and Crabtree,G.R., An embryonic stem cell chromatin remodelling complex, esbaf, is an essential component of the core pluripotency transcriptional network.Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.USA,2009,1106,5187-5191.

ID: 63293
Title: Dynamic pricing and markdown timing policies for fashion goods with strategic behaviour of consumers
Author: Yanli Fang, Xiangping Wang, Weijing Wang and Ping Fan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 116 (10) 1648-1652 (2019)
Subject: Dynamic pricing and markdown timing policies for fashion goods with strategic behaviour of consumers
Keywords: Fashion goods, markdown timing, pricing strategy, strategic consumers
Abstract: In this article, we discuss the optimal pricing strategy and best markdown timing in two scale periods for a monopoly seller, when faced with strategic consumers. Based on the Stackelberg game theory, a mathematical model is constructed to maximize the seller’s revenue when the markdown timing is certain or uncertain. Consumers are heterogeneous with different valuations for the same product. Moreover, after retailer decision-making, consumers would determine their purchase policies about the time and price, by comparing the prices and individual valuations in the two sale periods. Finally, a numerical example is considered to illustrate the optimal pricing strategy and best purchase policy.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Weatherford, L.R. and Bodily, S.E., A taxonomy and research overview of perishable-asset revenue management, overbooking and pricing. Oper.Res. 1992, 40 (5), 831-844. Bitran, G. And Caldentey, TR., An overview of pricing models for revenue management. IEEE Eng.Manage.Rev., 2016, 44 (4) , 134-134.
Literature cited 2: McWilliams, G. And Caldentey, R., An overview of pricing models for revenue management. IEEE Engg.Manage.Rev., 2016, 44 (4), 134-134. Elmaghraby, W. and Keskinocak, P., Dynamic pricing in the presence of inventory considerations: research review, current practices, and future directions. Manage. Sci., 2003, 49 (10), 1287-1309.