ID: 62540
Title: Kinetic and mechanistic studies of cerium (III)-catalysed oxidation of 4-oxo acids by bromated in acid medium: nonlinear Hammett plots
Author: B.Suresh Babu, P.Sunitha Mnajari and Ch.Sanjeeva Reddy
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (5) 651-659 (2021)
Subject: Kinetic and mechanistic studies of cerium (III)-catalysed oxidation of 4-oxo acids by bromated in acid medium: nonlinear Hammett plots
Keywords: Bromate oxidation, cerium (III) catalysis, isokinetic relationships, reaction mechanism, 4-oxo acids.
Abstract: The kinetic and mechanistic aspects of cerium (III)-catalyzed oxidation of 4-oxo acids by bromated (uncontaminated with bromine) in an acid medium have been studied. The reaction exhibited first-order each in [bromate] and [acid], fractional order each in [oxo acid] and [cerium (III)], and also showed solvent isotope effect of 0.55 (k (H20/K (D2O). The reaction did not induce polymerization and the induction period was not observed. The influence of ionic strength on the rate was negligible, while increase in reaction rate was found by lowering the dielectric constant of the medium. The reaction rate was affected by the presence of substituent in the reaction centre. Increase in the reaction rate by electron releasing substituent and decrease in the rate by the presence of electron-with-drawing substituent were observed. The Hammett plots were characterized by smooth curvature; however, linearity was observed using exalted σ values. A negative value for the reaction constant was observed. The isokinetic relationship was evaluated from the Arrhenius and Hammett plots. The formation of a ternary complex between oxidant, substrate and catalyst has been proposed in the mechanism. Based on the proposed mechansism, the rate law has been derived. The formation of a π-complex between Ce (III) and –ene of the enol form of oxo acid has been proposed. This reaction finds application in the synthesis of substituted benzoic acids and involves the phenomena of intramolecular catalysis and neighboring group participation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Fuentes, L.M., Gerald,L.and Larson,G.L., A facile synthesis of 4-oxo carboxylic acids from y-butyrolactone.Tetrahedron Lett., 1982, 23 (3) , 271-274.
Bell, R.B and Covington, D., Intra-and inter–molecular catalysis in the halogenations of some oxocarboxylic acids.J.Chem.Soc.Perkin Trans 2, 1975, 12, 1343-1348.
Literature cited 2: Bhatt, M.V., Ravindranathan, M., Somayaji, V. and Rao, G.V., Aspects of tautomerism.13. Alkaline hydrolysis of gamma, delta-and epsilon-keto esters and their deoxy analogs.Geometrical constraints on keto participation.J. Org.Chem., 1984, 49 (17), 3170-3173
Kavitha, S., Pandurangan, A. and Alphonse, I., Kinetics and mechanism of oxidation of beta benzoylopropionic acids by pyridinium fluoro-chromate in aqueous acetic acid medium. Indian J.Chem.A., 2005, 44(4), 715-718.
ID: 62539
Title: Implementation of managed aquifer recharge techniques in India
Author: Shreya Ganguly and Sayantan Ganguly
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (5) 641-650 (2021)
Subject: Implementation of managed aquifer recharge techniques in India
Keywords: Check dams, managed aquifer recharge, recharge shafts, rooftop rainwater harvesting, percolation tanks
Abstract: Rapid rise in population and urbanization have caused excessive groundwater exploitation which is a major concern. Therefore, technologies to replenish the groundwater are necessary for its conservation and sustainable development. Storage of freshwater in shallow aquifers using different techniques has become the practice worldwide to restore the depleting groundwater and improve water quality. This article addresses the implementation of managed aquifer recharge (MAR) in six zones of India, viz. North, South, East, West, Central and Northeast along with a brief scenario of the geologies of these zones. The prevalence of percolation tanks, check dams, recharge shafts and rainwater harvesting methods is found to be feasible and beneficial in most parts of India due to their efficiency and easy application. The adversities of MAR like clogging of porous media are also highlighted along with their mitigation strategies.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Rodell, M., Velicogna, I. And Famiglietti, J.S., Satellite-based estimates of groundwater depletion in India. Nature, 2009, 460, 999-1002.
Thomas, B.F. and Famiglietti, J.S., Identifying climate-induced groundwater depletion in GRACE Observations.Sci.Rep., 2019, 9, 4124.
Literature cited 2: Gruetzmacher, G. and Kumar, S., Introduction to managed aquifer recharge (MAR) –overview of schemes and settings worldwide. Conference on Managed Aquifer recharge: Methods, Hydrogeological Requirements, Post and pre-treatment Systems, 2012.
Modrzyrisk, J.J., Aamand,J., Wittorf, L., Badawi,N., Hubalek, V., Canelles, A., Hallin,S. and Albers, C.N., Combined removal of organic micropollutants and ammonium in reactive barriers developed for managed aquifer recharge. Water Res., AJ. Int. Water Assoc., 2020, WR 116669.
ID: 62538
Title: Dynamics of air-sea carbon dioxide fluxes and their trends in the global context
Author: K.Lekshmi, TRishikesh Bharti and Chandan Mahanta
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (5) 626-640 (2021)
Subject: Dynamics of air-sea carbon dioxide fluxes and their trends in the global context
Keywords: Carbon dioxide fluxes, earth system, global scenario, ocean-atmosphere interface, seasonal variability.
Abstract: This article reviews the dynamics of CO2 fluxes in the global scenario. Most of the available techniques for sea-surface CO2 partial pressure estimation are regional models that depend on the key regulating parameters of partial pressures. Global –scenario of fluxes reveals a contrasting trend, indicating subpolar-and polar –waters dominated by physical forcings in winter, releasing CO2 whereas a biological drawdown of atmospheric CO2 in summer. In the tropical oceans, thermal regulation weakness biological forcing leading to influx in winter and outflux in summer. The Atlantic Ocean acts as an intense sink (-815 to -1295 mmol Cm-2yr-1); the strong source in the Pacific equatorial belt in balanced by temperate sinks. The Indian Ocean as a whole act as sink (-841x1015 mmol C yr-1) whereas the northwestern sub-basin acts as a source (2.04.04 x 1015 mmol C yr-1). The net global ocean uptake is 50x1015 mmol Cyr-1 where the physical–and biological–forcings along with seasonality play crucial roles in the flux direction.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Chester, R., Marine Geochemistry, Blackwell Science Ltd, Oxford, UK, 2000,2nd edn, p.506.
Velasco, E. and Roth, M., Cities as sources of CO2: review of atmospheric CO2 exchange in urban environments measured by eddy covariance technique. Geogr. Compass, 2010, 4 (9), 1238-1259; 10.1111/j.1749-8198.2010. 00384.x
Literature cited 2: Feely, R.A., Sabine, C.L., Takahashi, T. and Wanninkhof, R., Uptake and storage of carbon dioxide in the ocean: the global CO2 survey. Oceanography, 2001, 14 (4), 18-32.
Zeebe, R.E., History of sea water carbonate chemistry, atmospheric CO2 and ocean acidification. Annu .Rev. Earth Planet. Sci., 2012, 40, 141-165; doi: 10.1146/annurev-earth-042711-105521.
ID: 62537
Title: Oxygen production potential of trees in urban areas: a reality check?
Author: Suresh Ramanan, S.Mohammed Osman, Arun Kumar Shankar and K.B.Sridhar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (5) 622-625 (2021)
Subject: Oxygen production potential of trees in urban areas: a reality check?
Keywords: Oxygen release, photosynthetic rate, trees, urban greenspaces, valuation
Abstract: Trees are referred to as lungs of the earth for their oxygen releasing potential, via photosynthesis. Air quality in urban areas has deteriorated and it is impacting the well-being of human life. The oxygen spa or artificial oxygen environment is portrayed as an alternative to air pollution. Against this backdrop, there are voices supporting to increase the tree cover in urban areas, thereby increasing oxygen availability. Increasing tree numbers to remove air pollutants is a logical argument but improving the air quality by increasing the oxygen concentration by growing more trees needs interospection. Thus, the question-How much oxygen is produced by different tree species and how to quantify it? According to atmospheric researchers the oxygen concentration of the atmosphere has not changed for quite a long time. Also, oxygen production from the terrestrial ecosystems is less compared to the marine and aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, there are numerous benefits from urban trees or urban greenspaces, so do we really need to worry about oxygen production or release from urban trees?
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Madhavan, R., Bengaluru suffers from acute oxygen deficiency .The Indian Express, 2018.
Taylor, M., UK mayors urge Boris Jhonson to commit to tougher air pollution targets. Guard, 2021; https://www.theguardina.com/environment/2021/jan/27/uk-mayors-boris-johnson-tougher-air-pollution-targets.
Literature cited 2: Press Trust of India, When pollution levels have spiked, portable oxygen cylinders are also in vogue and are being bought through e-commerce sites. Business Standard, New Delhi, 2019.
Moitra, S., Oxygen bars are surely not a solution for pollution. The Hindu, 2019.
ID: 62536
Title: Effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria an Organixxgro on tissue-cultured bamboo plantlets under nursery conditions.
Author: Kishna Giri, Satyam Bordoloi, Gaurav Mishra, R.S.C.Jayaraj, Navajyoti Bora, Rupjyoti C.Baruah, Bondita Borah, Samiran Kakoti
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (5) 615-617 (2021)
Subject: Effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria an Organixxgro on tissue-cultured bamboo plantlets under nursery conditions.
Keywords: Rhizobacteria, Organixxgro, tissue-culture, bamboo plantlets
Abstract: Bamboos are evergreen perennial woody grasses from the Poaceae family distributed in tropical, sub-tropical and temperate regions of the world. As a suitable alternative to timber, bamboo was once considered as the poor man’s timber. However, owing to the extensive increase in modern applications with tremendous economic importance, bamboos have rightly been recognized as ‘greengold’ of the 21st century. In India, 136 species of bamboo belonging to 23 genera are found. The Northeastern (NE) states of India alone harbor more than 90 bamboo species, 41 of which are endemic to this region. Among the bamboos of NE India, Bambusa tulda is the most economically important species prioritized by the National Bamboo Mission for large-scale cultivation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bakshi, M., Sustainable production of bamboo for rural and tribal communities via farmer-friendly technology, 173-180.In Multipurpose forestry. In Proceedings on Managing and Enhancing Ecosystem Services and Production Function of Forests, Woodlands and Trees Outside Forests (eds Negi, S.S and Dinesh Kumar), FRI, Dehradun, 2010, p.268.
Tewari, D.N., A Monograph on Bamboo, International Book Distributors, Dehradun, 1992, p. 498.
Literature cited 2: Hore, D.K., J. Econ. Taxon. Bot., 1998, 22 (1), 173-181.
Loushambam, R.S., Singh, N.R., Taloh, A. and Mayanglambam, S., Indian J. Hill Farm, 2017, 30 (2), 181-185.
ID: 62535
Title: Nitrogen loss from plants-an Ignored aspect
Author: D.Blaise
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (5) 613-614 (2021)
Subject: Nitrogen loss from plants-an Ignored aspect
Keywords: Nitrogen, plants, ignored aspect
Abstract: Fertilizer nitrogen (N) is universally used in crop production to attain high crop yields. However, the efficiency of fertilizer N is often reported to be in the range 30-50%. High N loss through ammonia volatilization, denitrification and surface run-off is reported as the main reason for low use efficiency. Another pathway for N loss is during the catabolism process when plants senesce. This has not been studied well and is often ignored in the calculation of the N balance sheet. Thus, considering N loss from plants will help in constructing an accurate balance sheet.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Prasad, R., Curr., Sci., 1998, 75, 677-683.
Appl, M., In Ullmann’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry Chemistry, Wiley-VCH, Weiheim, Germany, 2006.
Swaminathan, M.S., 50 years of Green Revolution: An Anthology of Research Papers, M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), Chennai, India, 2017, p. 484; doi.10.1142/10279.
Literature cited 2: Swaminathan, M.S., 50 years of Green Revolution: An Anthology of Research Papers, M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundations (MSSRF), Chennai, India, 2017, p.484; doi:10.1142/10279.
NAAS, Policy Paper No.35, National Academy of Agricultural sciences, New Delhi, 2006, p.8
ID: 62534
Title: Mites: an emerging problem for bumblebees in the Indian Himalayan Region
Author: Rifat Hussain Raina, Babu Sadam, Aejaz H.Parrey, Purnima Pathak and Kailash Chandra
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 581-585 (2021)
Subject: Mites: an emerging problem for bumblebees in the Indian Himalayan Region
Keywords: Bumblebees, crop yield, high-altitude eco-system, mites, pollinators
Abstract: Bumblebees, crop yield, high-altitude eco-system, mites, pollinators to increase crop yield in the high-altitude ecosystem in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), bumblebees are highly valued insects. An unwanted mite's association with bumblebees is an example of a serious threat for the conservation of high-altitude agro-forestry ecosystem. Mites are emerging as a serious pest for bumblebees in the IHR and cause reduction in the pollinating efficiency of bumblebees, population health and in the spread of unwanted pathogens in nests. The mite Uropodina sp. (Acari:Mesostigmata) attacks on queens of Bombus simillimus, Bombus tunicatus and queens of Bombus miniatus were recorded in the present study and fitness of bumblebees attacked by the mite population was also determined. B.simillimus queens were heavily attacked and wide distribution of Uropodina sp. On the body of the bumblebees was observed in this study.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Eickwort, G.C, Evolution and life-history patterns of mites associated with bees. In Mites: Ecological and Evolutionary Analyses of Life-history Patterns (ed. Houck, M.A.,), Chapman and Hall, New York, USA, 1994, pp.218-251.
Klimov, P.B., Oconnor, B. and Knowles, L.L., Museum specimens and phylogenies elucidate ecology’s role in coevolutionary associations between mites and their bee hosts. Evolution, 2007, 61, 1368-1379.
Literature cited 2: Park, Y., -L., Kondo, V., White, J., West, T., McConnell, B. And McCutcheon, T., Nest-to-nest dispersal of Chaetodactylus krombeini (Acari, Chaetodactylidae) associated with Osmia cornifrons (Hym., Megachilidae).J.Appl.Entomol., 2009, 133, 174-180.
Sammataro, D., Gerson, U. and Needham, G.R., Parasitic mites of honeybees: life history, implications and impact. Annu. Rev. Entomol., 2000, 45, 517-546.
ID: 62533
Title: : Identification of male-specific active host plant volatiles for maize stem borer, Chilo partellus Swinhoe
Author: Niraj Guleria, Suresh M.Nebapure, P.D.Kamala Jayanthi, S.B.Suby and P.Saravan Kumar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 578-581 (2021)
Subject: Identification of male-specific active host plant volatiles for maize stem borer, Chilo partellus Swinhoe
Keywords: Dynamic headspace collection, gas chromatography-electroantennogram detector, maize stem borer, male-specific active volatiles
Abstract: The present study was conducted to identify male-specific active plant volatiles from maize against Chilo partellus. The gas chromatography-electroantennogram detector evaluation of volatile extracts collected from maize plant through dynamic headspace collection revealed the presence of six electro physiologically active volatiles for male, viz toluene, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol,4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone, 1,4-dichlorobenzene, p-isopropyl benzaldehyde (cuminaldehyde) and p-xylene. Electroantennogram analysis of selective synthetic volatiles against male moths revealed significantly higher response to geranyl acetate, cuminaldehyde, linalool and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol. Electroantennogram studies showed dose-dependent responses of male moths against geranyl acetate, cuminaldehyde, linalool and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol up to 50 µg, above which saturation of antennal response was noticed. These findings will help to study the synergistic activity of identified volatiles with pheromone compounds for developing more effective lure for C.partellus monitoring and mass trapping.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Sethuraman, V.and Narayanam, K., Biological activity of nucleo-polyhedrovirus isolated from Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in India .Asian J.Exp.Biol.Sci, 2010, 1, 325-330.
Nesbittt, B.F., Beevor, P.S.,Hall,D.R., Lester,R., Davies,J.C., and Reddy,K.S., Components of the sex pheromone of the female spotted stalk borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Lepidptera:Pyralidae): identification and preliminary field trials.J.Chem.Ecol.,1979, 5 (1), 153-163.
Literature cited 2: Sole, J. Sans, A., Riba, M. and Guerrero, A., Behavioural and electrophysiological responses of the European corn borer Ostrinia nubialis to host-plant volatiles and related chemicals.Physiol.Entomol., 2010, 35(4) , 354-363.
Reddy, G.V.P.Guerrero, A.Interactions of insect pheromones and plant semi chemicals. Trends Plant Sci, 2004, 9, 253-261.
ID: 62532
Title: Evaluation of probability distribution functions applied to tree diameter in a mixed uneven Kiker (Robinia pseudoacacia) stand of Kashmir Himalaya, India
Author: Tariq H.Masood, Immad A.Shah, Meraj U.Din Dar, Parvez A. Sofi and Javeed A.Mugloo
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 573-577 (2021)
Subject: Evaluation of probability distribution functions applied to tree diameter in a mixed uneven Kiker (Robinia pseudoacacia) stand of Kashmir Himalaya, India
Keywords: Diameter class, goodness-of-fit statistics, forest stands, probability distribution function, Robinia pseudoacacia
Abstract: Probability distribution is of significance to predict tree distribution and estimate productivity in different ages as well as thinning out in forest stands to ensure optimized and stable stands. Statistical probability distributions, viz. Lognormal, Weibull, exponential and gamma were used to fit tree-diameter data generated from the Manasbal forest stand of Kashmir Himalaya, India containing a heterogeneous population of trees with the objective to determine the best probability distribution of tree diameter. To estimate the parameters of the fitted distributions, the method of maximum likelihood was used. The various distributions were evaluated using different goodness of-fit tests, viz.Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Cramer-von Misses and Anderson-Darling statistics, and was ascertained. Lognormal distribution fitted the data well and could be used in modelling, planning and scheduling the forest stand in the study region.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Boring, L.R. and Swank, W.T., The role of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) in forest succession.1894, 72, 749-766.
Luna, R.K., In Plantation Trees, International Book Distributor, Dehradun, 2005, pp.895-898.
Literature cited 2: Shukla,N.K.,Singh,K.R., and Singh, R.S., A note on the physical and mechanical properties of Robinia pseudoacacia.Fraxinus spp.and Ailanthus spp. from Srinagar (J&K).Indian For., 1986, 112 (2) , 139-151.
Singh, H.P., Pandey, C.N and Sharma, S.N., Studies on shrinkage behaviour of Robinia pseudoacacia timber. Indian For., 1990, 116 (10), 832-836.
ID: 62531
Title: Anomalous subsurface VLF electric field emissions related to Nepal earthquakes (M=7.8, M=7.3), and their generation and propagation mechanisms.
Author: Sarita Sharma, Raj Pal Singh, Birbal Singh and Devrat Pundhir
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 551-559 (2021)
Subject: Anomalous subsurface VLF electric field emissions related to Nepal earthquakes (M=7.8, M=7.3), and their generation and propagation mechanisms.
Keywords: Attenuation, earthquakes, electric field, radiating dipole, VLF emissions
Abstract: Measurement s of amplitude of vertical components of very low frequency (VLF) electric field emissions have been in progress at Chaumuhan, Mathura (27.5°N, 77.68°E) , Uttar Pradesh, India, at the frequency of 3.012 kHz using a borehole antenna since 24 March 2011.Ion the present study, we have statistically analysed the VLF data from 1 January to 31 July 2015 using the mean ( m±2σ) criterion with respect to two major earthquakes (M=7.8, 7.3) and their aftershocks that occurred on 25 April and 12 May 2015 in Khudi and Kodari regions of Nepal respectively. Results of the analysis show a spiky enhancement above the m + 2σ line in the daily variation of the normalized VLF data, 7-14 days before the onset of main shocks of these earthquakes. These anomalous enhancements in the normalized values of amplitude are examined in light of various other possible causative sources such as magnetic storms, local lightning, solar flares and solar eclipse, rainfall, wind speed, temperature and pressure of the atmosphere. It was found that the VLF amplitude anomalies are not related to these sources. Further, we have developed a theoretical model for generation and propagation mechanisms of VLF emissions associated with the said earthquakes and their aftershocks by assuming an ensemble of elementary radiators randomly oriented and distributed in space and time in the preparation zones of these earth-quakes. The computed electric field from the model is in good agreement with the observations.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: GAokhberg, M.B., Morgunov, V.A., Yoshiino, T., Tomizawa, I., Experimental measurement of electromagnetic emissions possibly related to earthquakes in Japan.J.Geophys.Res, 1982, 87 (B9), 7824-7828.
Hattori, K., Han, P., Yoshino, T., Febriani, F., Yamaguchi, H. and Kanto, Japan during 2000-2010: case studies and statistical studies. Surv. Geophys., 2013, 34 (3), 93-316.
Literature cited 2: Fujinawa, Y., Noda, Y., Takahashi, K., Kobayashi, M., Takamatsu, K. and Natsumeda, J., Field detection of microtracks to define the nucleation stage of earthquake occurrence. Int. J. Geophys., 2013 (7), 1-18.
Singh, R.P., Singh, B. Mishra, P.K. and Hayakawa, M., On the Lithosphere-atmosphere coupling of seismo-electromagnetic signals. Radio Sci., 2003, 38 (4), 1-10.
ID: 62530
Title: Decadal changes in land degradation status of India
Author: K.Sreenivas, G.Sujatha, Tarik Mitran, K.G., Janaki Rama Suresh, T.Ravishankar and P.V.N Rao
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 539-550 (2021)
Subject: Decadal changes in land degradation status of India
Keywords: Change detection, land degradation, visual interpretation, sand dunes, soil erosion, spatial distribution.
Abstract: Robust data on the Spatial distribution of land degradation is important for resource conservation planning. Spatial land degradation status of India was mapped using multi-temporal Linear Imaging Self Scanning Sensor (LISS-III) data acquired from Resourcesat-1/2 during 2005-2006 and 2015-2016 under the Natural Resources Census programme of the Indian Space Research Organisation. Heads-up on-screen visual interpretation of multi-season satellite data was carried out, supported by digital elevation model and other historical maps available. Visual interpretation cues were developed and employed across various partner institutions to achieve consistency in mapping. The outputs were subjected to two-stage quality check. Results indicate that the total land degradation of India was 91.2 M ha 27.77% of the geographical extent of the country) during 2015-2016 against 91.3 M ha during 2005-2006.During the ten-year period, there was an overall decrease of around 0.1 M ha in degraded land. However, noticeable intra-and inter-class changes were observed in land degradation during the ten-year period. Major reclamation was noticed in sand dunes which were converted into crop lands by levelling them. Substantial decrease in severity and extent of salt-affected soils was noticed in Uttar Pradesh.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bhattacharyya, R., Ghosh, B.N., Mishra, P.K., Mandal, B., Rao, C.S., Sarkar, D. and Franzluebbers, A.J., Soil degradation in India: challenges and potential solutions. Sustainability, 2015, 7(4), 3528-3570; https://doi.org/10.3390/su7043528.
Navalgund, R.R., Indian Earth Observation Programme toward societal benefits: a GEOSS perspective. In GEOSS and Next-Generation Sensors and Missions, International Society for Optics and Photonics, 2006, vol.6407, p.640701; http://repository.ias.ac.in/89366/1/45p.pdf.
Literature cited 2: NRSC, Nationwide mapping of Land degradation using multi-temporal satellite data. Project Manual, Soil and Land resources temporal satellite data. Project Manual. Soil and Land Resources Assessment Division, Earth Resources Group, RS & GIS application area, Department of Space, Govt. Of India, Balanagar, Hyderabad, 2007.
Sujatha, G., Mitran, T., Tummala, K., Suresh, K.G.J.R., Fyzee, M.A., Sreenivas, K. and Ravisankar, T., A decision based using geospatial techniques in a semi-arid region of India. J. Geomatics, 2019, 13 (2), 188-194.
ID: 62529
Title: Estimation of economic loss and identifying the factors affecting the crop raiding behaviour of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in Nilambur part of the southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India
Author: Riju P.Nair and E.A.Jayson
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 521-528 (2021)
Subject: Estimation of economic loss and identifying the factors affecting the crop raiding behaviour of Asian elephant
Keywords: Areca nut cultivation, Asian elephant, crop damage, potential loss, running quadrates
Abstract: The crop damage by the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) on the livelihood of farmers is a major impediment to the conservation of the endangered mammals. The study was carried out in Malappuram district, Kerala, India from January 2013 to May 2016, to estimate the extent of crop damage by Asian elephants and to identify the factors affecting human-elephant conflict. To estimate the monetary loss, the method of running quadrates was employed. The major cash-crops destroyed by the Asian elephant were plantain (Musa paradisica), rubber (Havea brasiliensis), areca nut (Areca catechu) and coconut (Cocos nucifera). A potential loss of Rs 5, 076,827 (US $72,948) per annum (Rs 2, 217,363 (US$31,861) (other crops) +Rs 2859, 464 (US $41, 087) (rubber) was estimated. Fifty percent of the encounters occurred at early midnight. The presence of areca nut cultivation and distance to the Reserve Forest were identified as the two factors affecting crop raiding. The damage to rubber trees by feeding on the bark has also been reported.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Williams, C. et al., Elephas maximus. The IUCN Red list of Threatened Species, 2020, Et7140A45818198; https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020.-3RLTS.T7140A45818198en
Sukumar, R., Ecology of the Asian elephant in southern India: II. Feeding habits and crop raiding pattern.J.Trop.Ecol., 1990, 6, 33-53.
Literature cited 2: Chiyo, P.I., Cochrane, E.P., Naughton, L. and Basuta, G.I.,Temporal patterns of crop raiding by elephants : a response to changes in forage quality or crop availability? Afr. J. Ecol., 2005, 43 (1), 48-55.
Prasad, G., Shinny, R., Reghunath, R., and Prasannakumar, V., A GIS-based spatial prediction model for human-elephant conflicts (HEC) Wildl.Biol.Pract., 2011, 7, 30-40.
ID: 62528
Title: Failure Analysis of transmission line tower subjected to combined wind and dust loads
Author: Shaik Esub Salaam, N.Prasad Rao and P.Krishnam Raju
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 511-520 (2021)
Subject: Failure Analysis of transmission line tower subjected to combined wind and dust loads
Keywords: Dust storms, failure analysis, power supply, transmission line towers
Abstract: Towers play a vital role in the transmission line (TL) system. The main objective of the present study is to analyse the failure of towers subjected to dust storms. This study analyses the failure of a 765kV single-circuit delta-type horizontal configuration tower in the river delta region near Agra. TL tower are designed based on IS 802 Part 1/Sec 1 and 2 standards. Dust particles of soil may be lighter individually but have definite density. The wind carrying dust particles may increase the wind pressure on the tower line system. The increased wind pressure significantly affects the sag and tension of ground wire and conductor and results in additional loads on the tower, thus causing failure. It also increases wind load on the tower body and insulator string. There is literature related to numerical and wind tunnel studies on the combined effect of wind and rain loads, but no information is available on the wind and dust loads at present. The density variation method is used in the present study for calculation of additional wind pressure due to dust particles is considered. Using FEM software, the tower is analysed for existing design loads and verified for its strength adequacy. The tower stability is studied by analysing for additional loads and verified for its strength adequacy. The tower stability is studied by analysing for additional loads considering the presence of dust particles in the wind for three different volume fractions of 0.01%/m3, 0.02%/m3 and 0.03%/m3. The wind pressure increases by about 10% for an increase of every 0.01% of dust particles in the wind. The tension in the conductor and ground wire increases by 8%. The existing tower design is inadequate to withstand the additional forces from wind storms associated even with a small fraction of dust particles and may be the reason for the failure of towers in northern India during a particular period of the year.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Fu, X. And Li, H.N., Dynamic analysis of transmission tower-line system subjected to wind and rain loads. J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn., 2016, 57, 95-103.
Kikuchi,N., Matsuzaki, Y., Yukino,T. and Ishida,H., Aerodynamic dag of new-design electric power wire in a heavy rainfall and wind.J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn., 2003, 91 (1), 41-51.
Literature cited 2: An, L., Wu, J., Zhang, Z., and Zhang, R., Failure analysis of a lattice transmission tower collapse due to the super typhoon Rammasun in July 2014 in Hainan Province , China. J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn., 2018, 182, 2295-307.
Zhang, J. and Xie, Q., Failure analysis of transmission tower subjected to strong wind load. J. Constr. Steel Res., 2019, 160, 271-279.
ID: 62527
Title: Risk factors in childhood stunting in Karnataka, India, vary by geography
Author: Srilakshmi M.Raj, Ruwanthi Ekanayake, Kiera Crowley, Meenakshi Bhat, Jayarama Kadandale and Prabhu L.Pingalai
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 502-510 (2021)
Subject: Risk factors in childhood stunting in Karnataka, India, vary by geography
Keywords: Childhood stunting in Karnataka, environment, genetics, nutrition, public health
Abstract: Childhood stunting remains a public health concern in India. In Karnataka, the districts vary substantially in stunting prevalence. Using the NFHS-4 and AidData GEO datasets, we tested the hypothesis that ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ districts in Karnataka show different contributions to stunting. We found that for 30 environmental and health factors, Bengaluru appears to be distinct from the other districts. Using a mixed linear model approach, we found that for the entire state, and in both wet and dry districts, preceeding birth interval, altitude-adjusted haemoglobin level and child age showed significant correlations with height for age (HFA). The wet districts showed an additional association between maternal age and child HFA. However, interaction effects also different among the three conditions. Our results suggest that subtle variations should not be ignored when considering factors impacting child health outcomes.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bhutta, Z.A. et al., Vidence-based interventions for improvement of maternal and child nutrition: What can be done and at what cost? Lancet, 2013, 382, 452-477.
Malnutrition in Children-UNICEF data, 2021; https://data.unicef.org/topic/nutrition/malnutrition/ (accessed on 10July 2021).
Literature cited 2: Menon, P. Headey, D., Avula, R. and Nguyen, P.H., Understanding the geographical hurden of stunting in India: a regression decomposition analysis of district-level data from 2015-Matern. Child Nutr, 2018, e12620.
Pingali, P., Aiyar, A., Abraham, M. and Rahman, A., Transforming Food Systems for a Rising India, Palgrave Macmillan, 2019, 1st edn.
ID: 62526
Title: Use of tree cavities by Indian vertebrates: status of research, knowledge gaps and future conservation perspectives
Author: Bharati Patel, Sreejith Sivaraman and Peroth Balakrishanan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (4) 490-501 (2021)
Subject: Use of tree cavities by Indian vertebrates: status of research, knowledge gaps and future conservation perspectives
Keywords: Cavity-trees, ecological networks, tree cavity, tree-microhabitat, tropical forests, vertebrates
Abstract: Tree cavities play a key role in the structure and functioning of forest ecosystems. Though they host rich and specialized assemblages of numerous vertebrate and invertebrate species, they have received limited research attention in India as well as in tropics. We collated information on cavity using vertebrates of India from the available literature and various data-bases. Overall, 254 relevant references were found with information about tree and/or cavity characteristics and use for 517 species, which is about 18.4% of terrestrial vertebrate species of India. Among the 517 species, 43.9% were birds, followed by reptiles (30.8%), mammals (17.6%) and amphibians (7.7%), and the majority of them are rare, elusive and nocturnal species restricted to different regions/habitats. About 80% of the species are secondary users. Majority of the species use tree cavities are breeding sites (32.7%), and another 7.4% use them as roost, den or hibernation sites .Our analysis also shows that vertebrates use cavities with various characteristics in a wide variety of tree species. We have identified important gaps in research on cavity using vertebrates and cavity-trees. We have also emphasized the need for highly focused long-term studies on habitat interactions to elucidate species level requirements to plan habitat management strategies for the conservation of cavity using vertebrates and their cavity-trees.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kessler, M and Lehnert, M., Are ridge habitats special sites for endemic plants in tropical montane rain forests? A case study of pteridophytes in Ecuador. Folia Geobot., 2009, 44, 387-398
Tews, J., Brose, U., Grimm, V., Tielborger, K., Wichmann, M., Schwager, M. and Jeltsch, F., Animal species diversity driven by habitat heterogeneity/diversity: the importance of keystone structures. J. Biogeogr., 2004, 31, 79-92.
Literature cited 2: Bull, E., The value of coarse woody debris to vertebrates in the Pacific Northwest, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service General Technical Report,PSW-GTR-181, 2002, pp.171-178; https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/publications/documents/psw-gtr181/016_Bull.pdf ( accessed on 13 December 2017).
Newton, A.C., Forest Ecology and Conservation: A Handbook of Techniques, Oxford University Press, USA, 2010, p.454.