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ID: 63280
Title: Calculation of constructive elements of mobile overpass
Author: Adil Kadyrov, Alesandr Ganyukov, Marat Imanov and Kyrmyzy Balabekova
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 (9) 1544-1550 (2019)
Subject: Calculation of constructive elements of mobile overpass
Keywords: Constructive elements, mathematical analysis, mobile overcrossing, traffic jam
Abstract: In this article we discuss the construction of modular mobile overcrossing. Calculation of its constructive elements is performed and the optimum length of one module is determined. The purpose of the study is to develop a technique and calculate constructive elements of mobile bridge overcrossing in order to reduce traffic jams. Mathematical analysis, finite elements, finite differences and analytical method of displacements have been used in this study. The optimum length of each module of bridge overcrossing is received. The solution matrix of the method of finite differences allows us to calculate carriageway plate of the overcrossing with a wide variety of geometrical sizes, and also in case of different flexural stiffness properties of the plate and reinforcing elements. Calculation of the spatial frame of bridge overcrossing is performed by precise analytical method of relocation taking into account the bend and torsion of its elements.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Montgomery, D.C., Introduction to Statistical Quality Control, Wiley, 2012, 7th edn,P. 768. Altintas,Y., Manufacturing Automation, Metal Cutting Mechanics, Machine Tool Vibrations, and CNC Design, Cambridge University Press, 2012, col.12.no.6, pp.13-14.
Literature cited 2: Tasci, L. And Kuloglu, N., Investigation of new transition curve, Baltic J. Road Bridge Eng., 2011, 6 (1), 23-29. Ziatdinov, R., Yoshida, N. And Kim, T.-W., Analytic parametric equations of log-aesthetic curves in terms of incomplete gamma functions. Comput. Aided Geometr. Design, 2012, 29 (2), 129-140.

ID: 63279
Title: Dynamic analysis of soft hang-off riser in deep water, coupling the vibration of lateral and longitudinal directions
Author: Liangjie Mao, Song Zeng and Qingyou Liu
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 (9) 1533-1543 (2019)
Subject: Dynamic analysis of soft hang-off riser in deep water, coupling the vibration of lateral and longitudinal directions
Keywords: Deep water, drilling riser, dynamic analysis, soft hang-off
Abstract: A dynamic analysis model of soft hang-off riser in deep water is developed to analyse the mechanical behaviour of a drilling riser. In this model, the riser is suspended by the tensioner at one end and is free at the other end. The movement of the riser can be considered as a process coupling the vibration of lateral and longitudinal directions. The model is studied using finite element method and verified by the results of ABAQUS and a similar experiment. The riser deformation, bending moment and longitudinal vibration in a well from the South China Sea are analysed and influences of lower marine riser package weight, evacuation and current velocities, desired track of the drilling platform, and length of the hang-off drilling riser on drilling riser deformation are discussed. The results are of significant importance for the practical operation of soft hang-off drilling riser during evacuation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Xu, L., Zhou,J., Wang,R., Jinag, s. and Sheng,L., Analysis of deep water drilling platform evacuation from imminent typhoons with riser hang-off in South China Sea.China Offshore Oil and Gas, 2015, 27 (3), 101-107. Mao, L., Liu, Q., Zhou, S., Wang, G. And Fu, Q., Deep water drilling riser mechanical behaviour analysis considering considering actual riser string configuration. J. Nat. Gas Sci. Eng., 2016, 33, 240-254.
Literature cited 2: Fan, H., Li., C., Wang., Z., Xu., L., Wang., Y. And Feng., X., Dynamic analysis of a hang-off drilling riser considering internal solitary wave and vessel motion. J. Nat. Gas Sci. Eng., 2017, 37, 512-522. Stedddum, R., The management of long, suspended strings of tubular from floating drilling vessels. In Offshore Technology Conference, Houston, Texas, 2003.

ID: 63278
Title: Dominant technology identification of wind power generation
Author: Hongying Wang and Bing Sun
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 (9) 1525-1532 (2019)
Subject: Dominant technology identification of wind power generation
Keywords: Leading technology identification, patent citation, search algorithms, visual analysis model, wind power generation
Abstract: Wind energy, the most commercialized prospect of renewable energy, is being developed and utilized on a large scale. Major institutions and universities have invested a lot of manpower, capital and technology in researching the wind power technology, which has made remarkable progress. In the era of green economy, the leading technology of wind power deserves more attention. Dominant technology represents the development direction of technology area. Identification of the dominant technology is of great significance for the technological choice and strategic layout of enterprises. In contrast to traditional technology identification methods, here we propose a visual analysis model based on patent citation relationship. First, the patent mutual citation data are input into the visualization software Gephi to identify the leading technology in the visual processing stage. The Page Rank algorithm is used to cross contrast the technical value to build the leading technology recognition model. Second, we evaluate the technical value of each patent with five indices, including ‘number of patent cited’, ‘patent number of the same family’, ‘scope of patent coverage’, ‘claim number of each patent’, and ‘number of patent litigations’ to verify the accuracy of the visual model. Taking the database of wind power generation technology from European Patent Office as a n example, we obtain 7421 patents from 1900 to 2017.The results of visual processing, evaluation of the index an PageRank judgement show that the visual model has a significant effect in the identification of the leading technology. The results also explain the applicability of the PageRank algorithm and the five indicators are the most scientific and reasonable for dominant technology identification.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Li, J. et al. Current situation and prospect of wind power generation in China. China Sci. Technol. Invest., 2007, 11 (1), 25-28. Malone, E., Hultman, N.E., Anderson, K.L .and Romeiro, V., Stories about ourselves: how national narratives influence the diffusion of large-scale energy technologies. Enrg. Res. Soc. Sci., 2017, 31 (9), 70-76.
Literature cited 2: Squarez, F.F., Batles for technological dominance: an integrative framework .Res.Policy, 2004, 39 (7), 271-286. Sun, M., Gao, C., Jia. C., Ni., F.D.F. and Zhang, J., The selection and promotion of core technology to China’s energy goals.Enrg.Proc., 2016, 104 (3), 233-238.

ID: 63277
Title: Valuable utilization of ferrochrome slag for wastewater treatment
Author: Priyanka Saha and Supriya Sarkar
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 (9) 1515-1524 (2019)
Subject: Valuable utilization of ferrochrome slag for wastewater treatment
Keywords: Ferrochrome slag, hexavalent chromium, Sukinda chromite mine, Sulphuric acid, wastewater
Abstract: During ferrochrome production, slag is discarded as a waste material in huge quantities. A relatively small percentage finds application whereas majority of the slag is held in dumps. The purpose of the study is valuable utilization of ferrochrome slag. The experimental results showed that 99 % removal of chromium (cr (VI)) was achieved in 1 h by ferrochrome slag from Suminda chromite mines water. There is an in situ generation of ferrous sulphate by the effect of oxidizing agent and iron content of ferrochrome slag which is capable of reducing Cr (VI) to trivalent chromium. Water samples surrounding the slag dumped area were checked to find out the extent of problem caused by them. There is no adverse effect of Cr on the surrounding water samples. Toxicity characteristic leaching procedure test revealed that the slag is environmentally stable. This research concludes that used ferrochrome slag could be utilized as a wastewater treatment.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Gericke, W.A., Environmental solutions to waste products from ferrochrome production. In Proceedings of the Eighth International Ferroalloys Congress (INFACON 8), Session A, Beijjing, China, 1998, pp.51-58. Testa, J.J. Grela, M.A. and Litter, M.I., Heterogeneous photocatalytic reductions of chromium (VI) over TI02 particles in the presence of oxalate: involvement of Cr (V) Species.Environ.Sci.Technol. 2004, 38 (5), 1589-1594.
Literature cited 2: Lee, G. And Hering, J.G., Oxidative dissolution of chromium (III) hydroxide at pH 9, 3, and 2 with product Inhibition at pH2.Environ.Sci.Technol., 2005, 39 (13), 4921-4928. McNeill, L.S., McLean, J.E., Parks, J.L. and Edwards, M., Hexavalent chromium review, part 2: chemistry, occurrence, and treatment.J.AM.Water Works Assoc., 2012, 104, 395-405.

ID: 63276
Title: Above-and below-ground biomass production in Pinus roxburghii forests along altitudes in Garhwal Himalaya, India
Author: Munesh Kumar, Rahul Kumar, Bobbymoore Konsam, Mehraj A. Sheikh and Rajiv Pandey
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 (9) 1506-1514 (2019)
Subject: Above-and below-ground biomass production in Pinus roxburghii
Keywords: Carbon, conifers, greenhouse gas, pure forest, REDD
Abstract: Chir pine (Pinus roxburghii Sargent) stands were selected across their distributional range from Himalaya, i.e., from lower altitude to upper altitude to understand distribution of chir tree density, basal cover and biomass with altitudes. Tree density was highest>1800 m (405 indha-1) and lowest (171.67 ind ha-1) between 1401 and 1800 m. Tree height was highest (23.69 m) between 1001 and 1400 m and lowest (17.71 m) > 1800 m. Basal area was highest (30.51 m2ha-1) between 1001 and 1400 m and lowest (17.16 m2ha-1) between 1401 and 1800m.The highest volume was observed between 1001 and 1400 m altitude and lowest between 1401 and 1800 m. Bole Biomass was highest (145.51 t ha-1) between 1001 and 1400 m and lowest (80.78 t ha-1) between 1401 and 1800 m. The mean leaf litter biomass production was highest in summer and showed decreasing trend in winter to rainy seasons, except in Rudraprayag where the highest biomass was observed i summer and regressed from rainy to winter seasons. The study concluded that, the density, height, basal area and volume of Pinus roxburghii trees varied with altitude in the Himalaya, but it is not directional. Density of trees plays an important role which changes biomass accordingly. Litter production had inverse relation with altitude, however increase in biomass of litter at > 1801 m was observed due to new plantations.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Upadhyay, T.P., Sankhayan, P.L. and Solberg, B., A review of carbon sequestration dynamics in the Himalayan region as a function of land-use change and forest/soil degradation with special reference to Nepal. Agric. Ecosys. Environ. 2005, 105, 449-465. Tollefso, J., IPCC says limiting global warming to 1.5ºC will require drasitic action. Nature, 2018, 562, 172-173; doi: 10.1038/d41586-018-06876-2.
Literature cited 2: Peichl, M.and Arain, M.A., Above-and belowground ecosystem biomass and carbon pools in an age-sequence of temperate pine plantation forests.Agric.For.Meteorol., 2006, 140, 51-63. Taylor, A.R., Wang, J.TR. and Chen, H.Y., Carbon storage in a chronosequence of red spruce (Picea rubens) forests in central Nova Scotia, Canada.Can.J. For. Res., 2007, 37, 2260-2269.

ID: 63275
Title: Environmental implications of Pancheswar dam in Uttarakhand (Central Himalaya), India
Author: S.P.Sati, Shubhra Sharma, Naresh Rana, Harsh Dobhal and Navin Juyal
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 (9) 1483-1489 (2019)
Subject: Environmental implications of Pancheswar dam in Uttarakhand (Central Himalaya), India
Keywords: Environmental impact, Pancheswar, reservoir draw down effect, sediment flux, seismicity
Abstract: The present study outlines major concerns and potential environmental consequences of the proposed Pancheswar high dam in Uttarakhand (Central Himalaya), India. We evaluate the risks associated with the project in the light of environmental impact observed for the Tehri project in the region and the geological understanding developed over the years. Three major factors and their likely impacts analysed relate to (1) sediment mobilization from glacial-paraglacial zones and unstable slopes, (ii) infrastructure development, and (iii) seismicity. We highlight the need to reassess geo-environmental implications of the project in the ecologically sensitive Kaliganga valley.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Yin, A., Cenozoic tectonic evolution of the Himalayan orogen as constrained by along-strike variation of structural geometry, exhumation history, and foreland sedimentation. Earth Sci. Rev., 2006, 76 (1-2), 1-131. Ravi Chopra Committee, Assessment of Environmental Degradation and Impact of Hydroelectric projects during the June 2013 Disaster in Uttarakhand Part-1-Main Report. Submitted to The Ministry of Environment and Forests Government of India, 2014, p.234.
Literature cited 2: Grumbine, R., Edward and Pandit Maharaj, K., Threats from India’s Himalaya Dams. Science, 2013, 339, 36-37. Strahorn, E., The tentative first steps in the creation of a Himalayan Hydroelectricity market between Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal. In New Approaches to Building Markets in Asia, Working paper no. 21, Centre on Asia and Globalisation, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, 2011.

ID: 63274
Title: First-flight images from low-dispersion spectrograph-cum-imager on 3.6 m Devasthal Optical Telescope
Author: Amitesh Omar, T.S. Kumar, B.Krishna Reddy, Jayshreekar Pant and Manoj Mahto
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 (9) 1472-1478 (2019)
Subject: First-flight images from low-dispersion spectrograph-cum-imager on 3.6 m Devasthal Optical Telescope
Keywords: Astronomical instrumentation, Charge-coupled device camera, optical telescope, spectrograph
Abstract: A low-dispersion spectrograph-cum-imager has been developed and assembled in ARIES, Nainital. The optical design of the spectrograph consists of a collimator and a focal reducer converting the f/9 beam from the 3.6 m Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT) to a nearly f/4.3 beam. The instrument is capable of carrying out broad-band imaging, narrow-band imaging and low-resolution (ƛΔƛ<2000) lit spectroscopy in the wavelength range 350-1050 nm. A closed-cycle cryogenically cooled charge-coupled device camera, also assembled in ARIES, is used as the main imaging device for the spectrograph. The first images from the spectrograph on the telescope assert seeing-limited performance free from any significant optical aberration. An –band image of the galaxy cluster Abell 370 made using the spectrograph shows faint sources down to ~ 25 mags. The quality and sensitivity of the optical spectra of the celestial sources obtained from the spectrograph are according to the expectations from a 3.6 m telescope. Several new modes of observations such as polarimetry, fast imaging and monitoring of the atmospheric parameters are being included in the spectrograph. Using a test set-up, single optical pulses from the Crab pulsar were detected using the telescope. The spectrograph is one of the main back-end instruments on the 3.6 m DOT for high-sensitivity observations of celestial objects.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Buzzoni, B. Et al., The ESO Faint Object Spectrograph and Camera (EFOSC).ESO Messenger, 1984, 38, 9-13. Andersen, J. Et al., New power for the Danish 1.54 m telescope.ESO Messenger, 1995, 79, 12-14.
Literature cited 2: Kashikawa, N, et al., FOCAS: the Faint Object Camera and Spectrograph for the Subaru Telescope.Publ.Astron.Soc.Jpn, 2002, 54 (6), 819-832. Hook, I.M. et al., The Gemini-North Multi-Object Spectrograph: performance in imaging, long-slit, and multi-object spectroscopic modes. Publ. Astron. Soc. Pacific, 2004, 116 (819), 425-440.

ID: 63273
Title: Hybrid solar dryer for drying of high-value flowers
Author: Padmapani Pachpinde, P.K.Sharma, Indra Mani
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 (9) 1463-1466 (2019)
Subject: Hybrid solar dryer for drying of high-value flowers
Keywords: Hybrid solar dryer, drying of high value flowers
Abstract: The world energy crisis has now given importance to solar energy utilization, research and development programmes all over the world. The sun is the largest fusion reactor known to mankind which supplies about 1000 times more energy than we need each day in the form of electromagnetic radiations. In order to harness solar energy, a dark surface is exposed to solar radiation so that it is absorbed. Two main approaches currently in use to harness solar energy are converting it to electricity by photovoltaic approach and converting it to thermal energy by solar thermal conversion. The simplest and most efficient way to utilize solar energy is to convert it into thermal energy for heating applications.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:

ID: 63272
Title: The Indian Nitrogen Assessment: Sources of Reactive Nitrogen, Environmental and Climate Effects, Management Options, and Policies.
Author: Supriya Kumari, AAkansha Malik
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 (8) 1424-1425 (2019)
Subject: The Indian Nitrogen Assessment: Sources of Reactive Nitrogen, Environmental and Climate Effects, Management Options, and Policies
Keywords: Indian Nitrogen Assessment, Sources of Reactive Nitrogen, Environmental and Climate Effects, Management Options, policies
Abstract: This is a comprehensive reference volume that summarizes all the available knowledge regarding the sources of reactive nitrogen in India, its environmental and climate effects, management options and policies. Its 31 chapters cover diverse sectors such as agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, industries, transport, etc. and quantify their contribution to air, water and soil pollution. This interdisciplinary work required the participation of over 129 authors and eight editors, backed by many more scientists from the Indian Nitrogen Group ING), a voluntary body of scientists established in 2004.This group’s work dates back to its first book on agricultural nitrogen use in 2007 and a special issue of current Science in 2008, as well as a series of 20 sector-specific ‘ING bulletins on regional assessment of reactive nitrogen’. However, this book is the most comprehensive assessment of all aspects of reactive nitrogen in India. Unlike the official reporting of nitrogen pollution that is limited to nitrous oxide (N2O) and Nox, this book also includes ammonia and other compounds of reactive nitrogen. The information is presented in reader-friendly manner with 85 tables, 93 figures and flow charts covering the past, present and future outlook in every area. This makes it a comprehensive single source of reference not only for scientists and researchers involved with any area of reactive nitrogen, but also for students, environmentalists, Journalists, bureaucrats, policy-makers and corporate managers, apart from international and inter-governmental organizations.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:

ID: 63271
Title: Carbon sequestration potential lf mango orchards in the tropical hot and humid climate of Konkan region, India
Author: A.N. Ganeshamurthy, V.r.Ravindra, T.R.Rupa and R.M. Bhat
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 (8) 1417-1423 (2019)
Subject: Carbon sequestration potential lf mango orchards in the tropical hot and humid climate of Konkan region, India
Keywords: Carbon sequestration, mango orchards, soil carbon stocks, tree biomass
Abstract: Cultivated grafted mangoes are not the same as polyembryonic seedling-based wild mangoes in terms of biomass production and carbon sequestration potential of mangoes in Konkan region, which is a prime mango belt of India producing the popular Alphonso mangoes. Allometric equation developed for grafted mangoes was used to estimate tree biomass. Konkan mango belt spread over 106, 210 ha sequesters 9.913 mt of carbon. However, the carbon sequestration potential of these cultivated grafted mangoes is very low compared to polyembryonic seedling-grown mangoes in the wild. Since mangoes in the Konkan region have mostly occupied degraded lands of laterite origin, such regions have been brought under productive mango orchards. As a consequence where forests have disappeared and mangoes have occupied the region, the carbon sequestered by them is a bonus apart from the production of mangoes. The administrators in these regions must use this information for claiming carbon credits for the benefit of farmers and the local population.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Achard, F., Eva, H.D., Sibig, H.J., Mayaux, P., Gallego, J., Richards, T., and Malingreau, J.P., Determination of deforestation rates of the world’s humid tropical forests. Science, 2002, 297, 999-1002. Fearnside, P.M. and Laurence, W.F., Tropical deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Ecol. Appl., 2004, 14 (4), 982-986.
Literature cited 2: Gitay, H. et al., Ecosystems and their services. In Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability to Climate Change. Third Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Cambridge University Press, 2001, pp.236-342. Houghton, R.A., Revised estimates of the annual net flux of carbon to the atmosphere from changes in land use and land management 1850-2000.Tellus, 2003, 55, 378-390.

ID: 63270
Title: Origin and distribution of shallow gas-charged sediment on the inner continental shelf of central west coast of India
Author: K.M. Dubey and A.K.Chaubey
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 (8) 1410-1417 (2019)
Subject: Origin and distribution of shallow gas-charged sediment on the inner continental shelf of central west coast of India
Keywords: Acoustic blanking, acoustic turbidity, central West coast of India, gas-charged sediment, mangrove, shallow seismic
Abstract: High-resolution shallow seismic investigations on inner continental shelf of Goa have been carried out to map gas-charged sediment zones and investigate origin of trapped gas. Analyses of data reveal that the gas is trapped by different stratigraphic layers and is distributed in two zones. Zone-1 are restricted up to ~30 m water depth and in the southern part of the study area. In this zone, gas is confined within the Holocene layers above the Holocene maximum Hooding surface (MFS). Whereas zone-2 is comprised of several isolated gas-charged patches which are distributed in the entire study area mostly between ~20 m and 45 m water depth. In this zone, gas is confined below Holocene-MFS in incised riverbed or a layer just below MFS or both. Gas charged sediment in zone-1 is formed due to degradation of organic material, which is predominantly early Holocene mangrove derived, whereas zone-2 it is formed due to degradation of organic material which were deposited by ancestral rivers during the post-glacial sea level rise of the Late Pleistocene. The distribution pattern of zone-1 is controlled by coastline configuration, long-term long-shore current pattern, Holocene rapid sea level rise and lithological character of exposed inter-tidal zone. Whereas distribution of zone-2 is controlled by palaeo-rivers of different glacial periods and their hydraulic energy condition during the base level rise.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hinrichs, K. And Boetius, A., The anaerobic oxidation of methane: new insights in microbial ecology and biogeochemistry. In Ocean Margin Systems (eds Wefer,G. Et al.),Springer-Verlag,Berlin,Heidelberg, 2002, pp.457-477. Dekas, A.E., Poretsky, R.S., and Orphan, V.J., Deep-sea archaea fix and share nitrogen in methane-consuming microbial consortia. Science, 2009, 326, 422-426; doi:10.1126/science.1178223.
Literature cited 2: Boetius, A. and Wenzhoefer, F., Seafloor oxygen consumption fuelled by methane from cold seeps. Nat.Geosci. 2013, 6, 725-734; doi: 10.1038/ngeo1926. Best, A.I., Tuffin, M.D.J., Dix., J.K.and Bull, J.M., Tidal height and frequency dependence of acoustic velocity and attenuation in shallow gassy marine sediments.J. Geophys.Res., Solid Earth, 2004, 109 (B8), 101.

ID: 63269
Title: Palaeo-seawater of Kutch region, Gujarat, India
Author: Tirumalesh Keesari and Uday Kumar Sinha
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 (8) 1407-1410 (2019)
Subject: Palaeo-seawater of Kutch region, Gujarat, India
Keywords: Earthquakes, groundwater, palaeo-seawater, saline springs
Abstract: Earthquakes provide an opportunity not only to unravel the hidden mysteries of nature but also facilitate calculation of the magnitude of palaeo-earthquakes by studying liquefaction features and reveal the presence of buried water bodies, etc. The Mw 7.7 Bhuj earthquake (2001) led to widespread liquefaction giving rise to sand blows, craters and lateral spreading. Near Chobari, sand and water spouts were found while some palaeo-channels and water bodies were found in Kulvida and Khadi. This study discusses the source of water to springs erupted near Lodai and demonstrates the usefulness of environmental isotopes in understanding the palaeo-salinity sources and processes. The linkage of spring water with past episodes of sea-water intrusion was also briefed.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: https://www.thebetterindia.com/149201/news-indian-dinosaurs-vaishali-shroff-book/ https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/science-or-sci-fi-the-ignorance-about-dinosaurs-in-india/story-Xz8vKkuJuRzQHfhnQ4FNM.html.
Literature cited 2: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/prehistoric-egg-or-pretty-tool-protecting-dinosaur-fossils-in-india/story-XTugah 1PglfB6Qr-EZRMruK.html. http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2018/04/india-s-paleontologists-fight-destruction-its-fossil-riches.

ID: 63268
Title: Optimized culture conditions for enhanced recovery of exopolysaccharide from Pseudolagarobasidium acaciicola: a novel fungus isolated from the fruit body of Rusula nigricans, a wild edible mushroom of Odisha, India
Author: Smita Behera and Nibha Gupta
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 (8) 1397-1406 (2019)
Subject: Optimized culture conditions for enhanced recovery of exopolysaccharide from Pseudolagarobasidium acaciicola
Keywords: Exopolysaccharuide, optimization, Pseudolagarobasidium acaciicola, submerged culture.
Abstract: Fungal exopolysaccharides (EPS) are becoming important due to their multifarious applications with different structural forms and easy recovery. The objective of this study was to optimize submerged culture condition of a new fungal isolate Pseudolagarobasidium acaciicola obtained from fruit body of an edible mushroom, Rassula nigricans. The study analyses the optimization of different parameters for enhanced production of EPS by one factor-at-a-time (OFAT) method. The influence of incubation period, initial pH value, temperature, mode of culture (static shake), culture vessel, carbon and nitrogen sources, and enhancers was studied. OFAT method revealed ph 6 with 7 days incubation statically and in dark in 150 ml Erlenmeyer flask , chemical factors like sabouraud dextrose HiVeg broth medium, xylose , yeast extract, tryptophan,K2HPO4, CaCl2 and vitamin C as good conditions and components for maximum biomass and EPS production. Optimized medium developed in this study was combination of the individually screened nutrient component, estimated the maximum EPS (1002.3 ± 189.72 mg/l) which was later expelled to 1468.1 ± 227.86 mg/l after addition of olive oil and Tween 80 at a concentration 250: 50 µl v/v, which was much higher , and reported first time from this fungus (it means that early when medium was formulated with different chemical components we got the optimized medium giving 1002.3 mg/l of EPS but when addition of oils was performed we got more amount, i.e.1468.1 mg/l).EPS production in a new medium might facilitate its industrial-scale production and use as a bioactive product for the welfare of mankind.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ugwu, E.E. and Adebayo-Tayo, B.C., Screening of some Basidiomycetes for bio-polymers and biomass production in submerged cultivation. AUJT, 2011, 15, 41-44. Ahmed, S., Anwar, A., Haider, A., Adnan Saeed, M., Nadeem, M., Zahida Nasreen, Z. And Baig, S., Selection of culture medium for exopolysaccharides production by Coriolus versicolor.Pak.J.Phytopathol., 2011, 23, 1-4.
Literature cited 2: Abdel-Aziz, S.M., Hamed, H.A., Mouafi, F.E., and Gad, A.S., Acidic pH-shock induces the production of an exopolysaccharide by the fungus Mucor rouxii: Utilization of beet-molasses. NY Sci.J., 2012, 5, 52-61. Looijestenijin, P.J., Boels, I.C., Kleerebenzem, M.and Hugenholtz, J., Regulation of the exopolysaccharide production by Lactococcus lactis subsp. Cremoris by the sugar source.Appl.Environ.Microbiol., 1999, 65, 5003-5008.

ID: 63267
Title: Attachment to shifting cultivation among Konyak Naga tribe in Eastern Himalaya: choice or compulsion?
Author: D.K. Pandey, P. Adhiguru and H.K.De
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 (8) 1387-1391 (2019)
Subject: Attachment to shifting cultivation among Konyak Naga tribe in Eastern Himalaya: choice or compulsion?
Keywords: Factorial analysis, place attachment model, shifting cultivation, tribal communities.
Abstract: Community attachment to place or practices and the cultural contexts of tribes are subjects of long traditions of research. A few studies, however, have extended these traditions into increasingly marginalized areas located beyond historically deprived upland communities. This study addresses issues related to the sentiments of attachment and constructions of place among the low-income Konyak Naga tribe in Nagaland, situated on the outer fringes of the Eastern Himalaya. Using four-dimensional model proposed by Raymond et al., with factor analysis, the study revealed that in addition to socio-economic factors that affect such connection to land and landscape, place dependence construct ( lack of alternate livelihood) is observed to be the most important driver of attachment to the practice of shifting cultivation. This was followed by strong connections with the natural environment or nature bonding of Konyak Naga to the forest. Contribution of economic and traditional institution-bonding with the practice was found among the tribe as a means of livelihood. Sensing that such debate of the socio-spatial environment might be perceived as inconsistent, all-informed and negative; we discuss implications in relation to cultural diversity and broader concerns about evolving rural poverty.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Pradheep, K., Pandey, A. And Bhatt, K.C., Wild edible plants used by Konyak tribe in Mon district of Nagaland: Survey and invenorisation. Indian J.Nat.Prod.Resour., 2016, 7 (1), 74-81. Kuotsuo, R.U., Chatterjee, D.I., Deka, B.C., Kumar, R.A., A.O.M.and Viramjeet, K.O., Shifting cultivation: an ‘organic like’ farming in Nagaland. Indian J.HillFrming, 2014, 27, 23-28.
Literature cited 2: Karmaker, R., Nagaland loses soil heavily due to ‘jhum’, 2018; https: //www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-othersstates/Nagaland-loses-soil-heavily-due-to-jhum/article23552211.ece. (accessed on 13 September 2018). Pant, R.M., Tiwari, B.K.and Choudhary, D., Report of Working Group III, shifting cultivation: towards a transformational approach.NITI Aaog, New Delhi, 2018.

ID: 63266
Title: Feasibility assessment of distributed generation systems in Sagar Island, West Bengal, India
Author: Partha Sarothi Sikder and Nitai Pal
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 (8) 1381-1386 (2019)
Subject: Feasibility assessment of distributed generation systems in Sagar Island, West Bengal, India
Keywords: Conventional energy sources, distributed generation system, islands, renewable
Abstract: Energy is one of the basic needs of socio-economic development of an area. The conventional method of electricity generation and grid-connected transmission and distribution system is expensive for the remote rural areas of India, resulting in lower per capita energy consumption. Grid connectivity or establishing new power plants using conventional energy sources is more difficult and expensive in the islands. The depletion of conventional energy sources is also another reason to explore alternative energy sources. Regardless of the cost and depletion of conventional energy sources, environmental issues are of greater concern on the islands. The pollution due to conventional energy sources destroys the biodiversity and ecological health of an island. The aim of the present study is to examine the distributed generation system using different renewable energy sources from the available meteorological data of the largest island in the Sundarbans deltaic complex, West Bengal, India, viz. Sagar Island. The vast number of renewable energy sources available in this island have been studied and the possibility of electricity generation is discussed. Moreover, the possible per unit cot is also estimated using levelized cost of energy.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: http://www.cea.nic.in/reports/monthly/executive summary/2017/exe_summary-02.pdf. http://powermine.nic.in/en/content/power-sector-glance-all-India.
Literature cited 2: Mitra, I., Optimum Utilization of Renewable Energy for Electrification of Small Islands in Developing Countries, Kassel University Press, Kassel, Germany, 2009. Mitra, I., A renewable island life: electricity from renewable on small islands. Refocus, 2006, 7 (6), 38-41.