Annual Report 2014-15
Indo-French Centre for the Centre Franco-Indien pour la Promotion of Advanced Research Promotion de la Recherche Avancée
Annual Report | 2014-15 1
Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research
Annual Report 2014-15 From the Director’s Desk
am immensely delighted to present The innovation programme has gained pace the Annual Report of the Indo-French with the initiation of new projects under I Centre for the Promotion of Advanced CEFIPRA’s collaboration with Saint Gobain Research (IFCPAR / CEFIPRA) for the year Research India (SGRI). The discussions 2014-2015. I would like to congratulate for signing an MoU between CEFIPRA my predecessor, Dr. Debapriya Dutta, and Airbus Group have also matured for successfully steering the activities of considerably during this period. Research CEFIPRA as per the mandate given by its projects under the programme on Red Governing Body. The work presented in Biotechnology, involving BIRAC (a Not-for- this report has been mostly initiated and/ or accomplished during his tenure. Biotechnology, Govt. of India) and Bpifrance Profit(a French Company Public set Investment up by Department Bank) are of CEFIPRA has continued its tradition of focusing upto pre-commercialization stage. strengthening the Indo-French Science, Technology and Innovation system Seminars and workshops are an integral by supporting various research and part of CEFIPRA’s bouquet of programmatic development projects. While continuing offerings for the scientists of both the to support research in basic and applied countries. In this period, in addition sciences through its Collaborative to other seminars/workshops focusing various S&T topics, a seminar dedicated to Industry Academia Research Development ScientificProgramme, ResearchCEFIPRA Programmeis taking steady and achievements of women PIs in CEFIPRA steps towards creating a solution oriented highlightingsupported projects the scientific was also contribution organized. and research programme with industry in different ways.
4 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Creating opportunities for young domains. By leveraging its vast network researchers and to provide them exposure of scientists and experts created over the to S&T ecosystems of the two countries, years through programmes and activities, CEFIPRA has continued its support CEFIPRA has been able to create a High for mobility by way of its dedicated mobility support programmes. A total of 57 Indian and French researchers have ENSEMBLE,Impact Scientific CEFIPRA’s Network bi-monthly Programme. newsletter, been supported by the Centre under its continues to serve the outreach mandate of Raman-Charpak Fellowship Programme CEFIPRA by articulating and disseminating since its inception in the year 2013. information about CEFIPRA’s programmes Enhancing the access of Indian scientists as well as activities being pursued with to large research facilities available in support from CEFIPRA at various Indian France has been an important deliverable and French institutions. for CEFIPRA. This is being pursued by CEFIPRA looks forward to continue its way of setting up the SOLEIL Synchrotron quest for even more robust Indo-French Programme. S&T ecosystem with interventions that Through its Targeted Programmes, strengthen the convergence between CEFIPRA has continued to provide a respective efforts of India and France in platform to national funding agencies Science, Technology and Innovation and of India and France, to come together create global common goods that serve not only people of India and France, but humanity at large. to support research in the specific S&T
Dr. Mukesh Kumar Director, CEFIPRA
Annual Report | 2014-15 5 Contents
1. Overview 07
2. Governance & Guidance 13
3. Seminars, Workshops & Outreach 17
4. Making Science, Technology and Innovation Ambassadors for Future 27
5. Innovation Programmes Through Public Private Partnerships 33
6. Other Programmes 37
7. Brief Reports of Research Projects
a. Collaborative Scientific Research Programme 41
b. Industry Academia Research & Development Programme 127
c. Targeted Programmes 135
8. Analysis of Scientific Activities 147
9. Indian and French Organizations 159
10. Mobility & Support to Scientists & Students Under Research Projects 165
11. Annual Accounts 183 1. Overview 1. Overview Year at a Glance
uring the year under review, CEFIPRA has In this year, 3 projects were completed under continued to support science, technology IARDP, while 4 projects are still ongoing. Projects Dand innovation systems of India and France supported under IARDP fall under domains of through its various programmes and activities. Agriculture, Aerospace, Catalysis, Materials Science CEFIPRA’s role under different initiatives varies etc. By way of activities being pursued under IARDP, new linkages have been established with several and also as a facilitator. Completing 27 years of its French industrial and academic institutions. existence,from being CEFIPRA a financial is productively supporter toengaged an enabler with These include Astrium Space Transportation, undiluted rigor and enthusiasm to explore new Alcatel-Lucent Bell Labs, Institut Mines Telecom possibilities for collaborative S&T engagements so in France and Dhavani Research & Development as to serve the Indo-French Science & Technology Solutions Pvt. Ltd, Mahindra Ecole Centrale in community in different ways. India. Five new Ph.D/post doc fellow positions and nine exchange visits have been supported The year saw CEFIPRA reaching out to new during this period. Development of a prototype of stakeholders, leveraging upon its strong network thermal shock resistant containers under a project completed under IARDP is another highlight of the the years as well as engaging with the industrial year. Also under the programme, a special call to sectorof institutions in more and visible scientific and personnel interactive created ways over in attract joint proposals from industry and academia public-private partnership mode. in the areas of Additive Manufacturing, Research & Development of Automobiles, Catalysis/Green Collaborative Scientific Research Technology and Fermenters was launched during Programme the year. 23 new projects commenced in FY 2014-15 under Seminars/Workshops/ Training Schools of CEFIPRA. These were in domains of Computer CEFIPRA supported 8 seminars/workshops/ Science,the Collaborative Life and Health Scientific Sciences, Research Pure and Programme Applied training schools during the year. These were in the Physics, Pure and Applied Chemistry, Materials Science and Environmental Sciences. Besides these Energy, Chemical Sciences, Organic Semiconductors, new projects, CEFIPRA continued supporting 68 Agriculturefield(s) of Earth and Computer Sciences, Biodiversity,Sciences. Renewable Around 520 scientists/researchers and students and 36 students between the two countries was from India and France participated in these alsoongoing supported scientific under projects. the programme. Mobility of 91 17 scientists projects knowledge events that provided a platform for that reached their conclusion during the year have fruitful interactions between the scientists of the two countries that can potentially lead to R & D collaborations in the times to come. Industryresulted in 89Academia publications in SCIResearch journals. and Development Programme Targeted Programmes The Industrial Research Programme of CEFIPRA Targeted Programmes have been initiated by has been renamed as Industry Academia Research CEFIPRA to provide a platform to diverse research & Development Programme (IARDP) in order to funding agencies of India and France to collaborate better convey the purpose of the programme and also to improve its effectiveness in converting areas. During the year following activities were the knowledge into products. highlightsin supporting of the R&D Targeted initiatives Programmes: in specific thematic
8 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Year at a Glance
Under the DST-INRA targeted programme, Dedicated Mobility Support for Young support for the project on “Adaptation of • Irrigated Agriculture to Climate Change” Researchers has been continued. Under this project, an Recognizing the importance of strengthening innovative method to map the land use and land the supply chain of talent for future collaborative cover changes from a multi-temporal satellite research pursuits, CEFIPRA has initiated dataset of low resolution images using Brovey dedicated mobility support programmes for young Transformation was developed during the year. researchers from India and France. Under the DST-ANR targeted programme, The Raman-Charpak Fellowship programme was launched during the state visit of the • year were Infectious Diseases and Engineering • President of France, H. E. Monsieur François Sciences.specific targetFour areasprojects identified were supported for the first in Hollande to India in 2013. During the these areas during the year 2014-15. The second year of Raman-Charpak Fellowship,
of the programme were Neuro-sciences and 7 French) were received. Out of these, 21 Engineeringtargeted areas Sciences identified (sub-areas: for the second Materials call applicantsa total of 179(doctoral applications students) (172 were Indian awarded and Science, Chemistry, Intelligent Support System the fellowship (17 Indian & 4 French). Two and Energy). Two new projects were supported in these areas. Under the programme, a new organized for the Raman-Charpak fellows of linkage has been developed with M S University debriefing cum interactive sessions were of Baroda, Gujarat, India. Four exchange September 2014 & at Indian Embassy, Paris in visits have also been supported under this October2013 & 20142014. at CEFIPRA office, New Delhi in programme during the year. CEFIPRA has joined hands with Université Under the DST-Inria-CNRS targeted Joseph Fourier, Grenoble to support the programme, a call for proposals was launched • participation of Indian doctoral students in the • in the areas of Big Data, Cyber-Physical Systems prestigious European School on Nano-sciences and High Performance Computing. From the and Nano-technologies (ESONN) in Grenoble, proposals received, six projects were selected France. For the ESONN session of 2014 (11th for support during the year. The targeted areas edition), 8 Indian doctoral students were focused under the second call of proposals were selected for award of the CEFIPRA-ESONN Big Data, Computer Science for Biology & Life Fellowship-2014 (out of 57 applications). Sciences and Reliable & Scalable Computation. CEFIPRA signed a Memorandum of Two new projects have been selected for Understanding (MoU) with Association support from proposals received in response • Nationale de la Recherche et de la Technologie to the call. Through this programme, CEFIPRA (ANRT), France on 16th May, 2014 for has been successful in developing new linkages identifying doctoral students for placement with three institutions namely the Indraprastha under the Cifre programme. Following up Institute of Information Technology (IIIT- on the MoU, Thales (a French multinational Delhi), International Institute of Information company), ANRT and CEFIPRA signed a Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT-H) and Indian framework agreement in December, 2014 to Institute of Technology, Gandhi Nagar (IIT-G). launch a fellowship programme for placing Eight new publications have also resulted from Indian doctoral students in Cifre programme. projects under the programme during the year.
Annual Report | 2014-15 9 Innovation Programme Outreach Programmes at Rennes, In order to enhance the industry participation France and Kolkata, India in CEFIPRA supported STI activities, the • Innovation Programme was launched in CEFIPRA organised an Outreach Programme on 2012. The programme emphasizes upon May 22, 2014 at the Université de Rennes, Rennes, Public Private Partnership mode to achieve its France. The programme was attended by about objectives. Under this initiative, Biotechnology 50 participants. These included students, young Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), researchers and faculty members of the university CEFIPRA and French Embassy in India from relevant disciplines. launched an Indo-French Challenge Oriented Another outreach programme was organized Programme in the area of Red Biotechnology by CEFIPRA at the Indian Association for the up to pre-commercialization stage. Two Cultivation of Sciences in Kolkata on November projects in the area of Cardiovascular Diseases 21, 2014. The aim of the programme was to have been selected for support under this reach out to S&T professionals in the Eastern and programme. The project entitled “Oxidized North-Eastern Regions of India those are under HDL-Apolipprotein A1 as a Risk Predictor of represented in CEFIPRA’s activities. As a part of Cardiovascular Disorders and Development of Novel Diagnostics” was started in March, 2015. of CEFIPRA delivered lectures on pertinent S&T Through this programme several new linkages the programme, members of the Scientific Council have been developed between Indian and on November 20, 2014. French Industrial organisations. topics at different scientific institutions in Kolkata CEFIPRA has also launched the Indo-French CEFIPRA Annual Lecture Series Health Technology Programme in association The third CEFIPRA Annual Lecture was delivered by • with bpifrance (a public investment bank) and Prof Stéphane Noselli, Director, Institute of Biology BIRAC in the area of red biotechnology upto Valrose (IBV), Nice, France on November 20, 2014 at pre-commercialization stage. This programme Ballygunge Science College, University of Calcutta, focuses on the development of industrial Kolkata. Title of Prof. Noselli’s lecture was ‘Left- application oriented health technologies in Right Asymmetry: Lessons from Drosophila’. The lecture was followed by an interactive discussion Diseases which are considered a priority by where students attending the lecture participated Indiaspecific as areaswell as of France. Cancer, Cardiac and Infectious actively with their comments, questions and As a follow up to the MoU between CEFIPRA and Saint Gobain Research India (SGRI) Ltd. signed • during the Indo-French Technology Summit Publicationsclarifications. (October, 2013), a research programme titled As per the practice followed in the past, CEFIPRA “Sustainable Habitat for Hot and/or Humid has brought out, along with this Annual Report, a Climates” was launched. Four new projects compilation (22nd Volume) of all research papers have commenced under the programme during that have emanated from the projects supported the year 2014-15. under the Collaborative Research Programme Discussions were initiated to formulate a during the period covered by this report. new programme with Airbus Group, France, The fact that a large number of research papers • to support research projects in the areas of coming out of CEFIPRA supported projects have Applied Mathematics, Machine Learning & been published in reputed high impact factor High Performance Computing, Materials & journals is a matter of great satisfaction for the Structures and Avionics. team at CEFIPRA.
10 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Other Programmes CEFIPRA-SOLEIL Synchrotron Programme High Impact Scientific Network Programme CEFIPRA has taken up an initiative to facilitate the use of the SOLEIL Synchrotron facility in France by developed and implemented in consultation with Indian scientists by launching the CEFIPRA-SOLEIL High Impact Scientific Network Programme was Synchrotron Programme. SOLEIL has agreed to make beam-time available to Indian scientists / werethe membersrecommended of CEFIPRA’s for further Scientific development Council. and researchers at its synchrotron facility in Saclay based on its usual evaluation/review process. subsequentUnder the programme,submission as five full concept proposals proposals in the areas of Nanoscience, Cold Atoms, Health Sciences to the selected successful scientists/researchers and High Energy Physics. toCEFIPRA carry considersout experiments providing during the financial the beam support time assigned by SOLEIL. Under the programme, two proposals involving six scientists / researchers were selected / supported during the year.
CEFIPRA WELCOMES Prof. Ashutosh Sharma Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India assumed charge as the new Indian Co-chairperson of the Governing Body of
(2003-05) of the Chemical Engineering Department at Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur CEFIPRA.(IIT-Kanpur). Prof. He Sharma was also was the a Professor founding (1997), Coordinator an Institute of Nanosciences Chair Professor Centre (2007) and Advancedand Head Imaging Centre at IIT-Kanpur. institutions in India. He has extensive international experience as a research faculty at various Prof.universities Sharma and has also served as a onMember the Governing of the European Boards/Councils Research Commission.of over 15 prominent He has also scientific served on the editorial boards of several international journals. Prof. Sharma was the lead Principal Collaborator from India for CEFIPRA supported project on “Equilibrium, Dynamics and Morphology of Thin Films: Relationship of Film Stability and Morphology to Macroscopic Parameters
ofProf. Wetting”. Sharma’s He able was guidance. also a member of CEFIPRA’s Scientific Council during the period 2008 - 2011. CEFIPRA is confident of enhancing its contribution towards the development of Indo-French S & T collaboration under New Initiatives CEFIPRA’s mandate has also been expanded to increase the private sector participation. Under Electronic Project Management System the guidance of a Joint IPR Committee, the revised To enhance the accessibility of its programmes for guidelines for Intellectual Property Rights have been brought out along with two model agreements proposal submission and subsequent processing, CEFIPRAits stakeholders, has put to enhancein place easean andonline efficiency proposal of and Industry Academia Research and Development Programmefor Scientific of Collaborativethe Centre. Research Programme Research Programme. The online system is now operationalsubmission andsystem has forhelped the Scientificincrease the Collaborative number of Renovation of CEFIPRA Office proposals received by as much as 75%. The working environment of the Centre has also been improved with the renovation of CEFIPRA Revision of Intellectual Property Rights Guidelines of CEFIPRA With upgradation of communication infrastructure CEFIPRA had revised its Intellectual Property tooffice world premises class levels, at India new Habitat communication Centre, New tools Delhi. like Rights (IPR) guidelines in the year 2002 after video conferencing have been introduced. which there have been a number of changes in the international regime for protection of IPRs.
Annual Report | 2014-15 11 2. Governance & Guidance 2. Governance & Guidance Guidance of the Governing Body he 28th meeting of the Governing Body of mobility programmes should be given to enhance CEFIPRA was held on 13th April, 2015 at mobility of students from France to India. Paris, France. While appreciating CEFIPRA’s T The Governing Body directed that seminars activities since the last Governing Body meeting, members emphasized the need to continue focus the areas of bilateral interest should be encouraged. on adding value by optimally utilizing resources Alsoproposed CEFIPRA by the should Scientific align Councilwith bigger of CEFIPRA seminars/ in for connecting scientists and engage new players conferences taking place in France/India from from ministries, academics and industries of India and France. participation by supporting travel of Indian/ The Governing Body also highlighted that alignment Frenchtime to scientists time and to leverageattend these the meetings. benefits of such of its activities with the national goals of India and In order to enhance the appeal of Industrial France is the way forward for CEFIPRA. Science Research Programme (now renamed as Industry and Technology cooperation to foster innovation Academia Research Development Programme) of through promotion of public-private partnerships CEFIPRA, the members suggested that CEFIPRA was also highlighted. The Governing Body also explore the option of providing support for hoped that establishment of the Indo-French Joint manpower to SMEs, MSMEs and Start-Ups. Model S & T Committee, will enable CEFIPRA to provide a for different types of non-core programmes should be developed through standardization of processes the times to come. for each of them. new fillip to the Indo-French S & T cooperation in The Governing Body members also opined that Governing Body approved the revival of Vision CEFIPRA should continue to work to further Group to provide recommendations regarding the enhance the Indo-French S&T cooperation in positioning of CEFIPRA in the context of the newly created Indo-French Joint S&T Committee. systems and modelling, climate change mitigation &the adaptation specific domains and Materials of supercomputing, Science. climate The Governing Body meeting was also an occasion for the two co-chairs of CEFIPRA to release the The Governing Body appreciated the expansion of Annual Report of CEFIPRA for the year 2013-14. CEFIPRA’s mobility support programme through PPP mode. It suggested that wider publicity to
14 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Meetings of the Scientific Council (3), Earth and Planetary Sciences (1), Pure & Applied Chemistry (2), Pure & Applied Physics (5) The 53rd and 54th meetings of the Scientific and Materials Science (1). A total of 36 publications 2014 atCouncil Kolkata were in India held respectively.from May 19-21, 2014 at have already emanated from these projects in Dinard in France and from November 17-19,
journals with high impact factor like the Journal Over the two meetings, 54 R&D proposals were of Advances in Modelling Earth Systems, Kidney considered for possibilities of funding support. International, PLOS Genetics, and RNA Biology etc. After review and deliberations, 23 proposals were recommended for funding support. See Fig. 1 for thrust area wise distribution of the recommended projects. Out of these, 4 projects were graded as proposals. “Excellent”A final review (in wasthe areas conducted of Astrophysics, for 14 completed Fluid Dynamics and Organic Chemistry) while another In addition to funding decisions on new projects, a 6 projects were graded as “Very Good” (in the mid-term review was conducted during the meeting areas of Quantum Physics, Immunology, Catalysis, for 26 ongoing R&D projects. These projects focus Remote Sensing based Hydrology, Astrophysics on domains of Health (14), Environmental Sciences and Fluid Dynamics).
Biotechnology 1
MaterialsMaterial Science 3 Earth and Planetary Sciences 1 Pure and Applied Chemistry 2 Pure and Applied Physics 8 Life and Health Sciences 7 Computer and Information Sciences 1
Figure 1:Thrust Area-wise distribution of the recommended proposals
Annual Report | 2014-15 15 Meetings of the Industrial Research Committee he 24th and 25th meetings of CEFIPRA’s were recommended for support. Proponents of Industrial Research Committee were held two of the concept proposals were asked to develop Ton May 22, 2014 at Dinard in France and the concepts further and submit as full proposals. November 20, 2014 at Kolkata in India respectively. Two concept proposals were recommended for re- In its 24th meeting, the Committee reviewed the progress of the six ongoing CEFIPRA supported The members noted that CEFIPRA’s Industrial submission after suggested modifications. projects in the areas of Health Sciences, Materials Research Programme is mainly driven by Science, Agricultural Science and Catalysis etc. It knowledge partners and is basically promoting the also recommended one new project proposal for S&T cooperation between Industry & Academia. funding support. In view of this, the Committee recommended that Industry Research Programme be renamed In the 25th meeting, the Committee reviewed the as “Industry Academia Research & Development Programme”. Health Sciences, Agricultural Science, ICT and Catalysis.progress ofThe five Committee ongoing projects also considered in the areas nine of The role of CEFIPRA for innovative public private concept proposals received in response to a special partnership programme was also discussed during call (in the areas of Automobile, Manufacturing and the meeting. It was recommended that CEFIPRA Catalysis/Green Technology and Fermentation) should develop a standard package of services along with two full proposals and three seminar indicating different levels of implementation proposals. After deliberations, one full proposal charges for facilitating industry-academia entitled “INDIcators of Reliability and Variability collaboration between the two countries. CEFIPRA, of BRTS (INDIRA B)” and three seminar proposals as a partner, should invest in collaboration with in the areas of Digital Manufacturing, Colour and Smart Systems and Structural Health Monitoring research needs. private companies to support their scientific
3. Seminars, Workshops & Outreach
16 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research 3. Seminars, Workshops & Outreach Seminars & Workshops Since its inception, CEFIPRA has supported 116 Seminars/Workshops/Training schools to enable academia-industry linkages and developing collaborative research projects in areas of high priority of mutual interest to both countries. CEFIPRA gives opportunity to the participants by disseminating information in public domain through different media, linkages with international wing of academic/ research institutes of both countries and to initiate bilateral training school. In year 2014-15, CEFIPRA supported 8 seminars/workshops on contemporary topics of interest to Indian and French S&T community.
Workshop on Himalayan Tectonics Srinagar, J&K July 21-29, 2014
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University University of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris, Paris The workshop on “Himalayan Tectonics” was organized also gave ideas about future course of tectonic events. to study the geological variation along the Himalayan ranges from pre-cambrian age to present times. The participants to recount their experiences and exchange notesAfter thewith field each trip,other a on seminar observations/learning was organised forduring the seminar. 30 Indian and French geologists participated in the time spent in this geologically exciting landscape. theworkshop workshop. included fieldwork, group discussions and a Presentations by various participants not only analysed The participants visited various parts of J&K region over explored likely possibilities of advancing Indo-French seven days to study himalayan geological features that the observations during the field excursion but also not only threw light on tectonic history of the region but collaboration in this field through CEFIPRA.
Strengthening Capacity for Inventory of Fauna in Biodiversity Hyderabad Hotspots in India and its Neighbouring Countries October 14-17, 2014
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University Centre for Cellular Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad Muséum national d’Histoirenaturelle, Paris The workshop on “Strengthening capacity for and France so as to strengthen taxonomic work and inventory of fauna in biodiversity hotspots in India enable exchange of ideas to overcome the “taxonomic and its neigh bouring countries” was organised in impediment”. order to create linkages between taxonomists of India
18 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research The workshop was attended by 40 experts representing differentWith 27 fieldstalks andof taxonomy 14 posters, from the India workshop and France. came up with useful suggestions about strengthening capacity for inventory of fauna in biodiversity hotspots in India.
Organic Photovoltaics (OPV) for / Solar Energy conversion Pune October 15-17, 2014
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux A workshop on “Organic photovoltaics (OPV) for Solar comprehensive understanding of the expertise available Energy conversion” was organized at NCL, Pune with with various participating groups but also for identifying an objective of discussing the emerging developments capacity gaps that need to be bridged in order to make in the OPV area, including OPV devices, bulk hetero- further progress. junctions, organic-inorganic hybrid systems and organic During the seminar, several participants were able architectures (polymers and small molecules). to identify a partner with complementary expertise Twenty six eminent delegates from France and India from France or India and engaged in discussions on made presentations on various aspects of OPV. A the possibilities of joint proposals for submission to poster presentation by students was also part of the CEFIPRA or the French National Agency for Research programme. A round-table discussion in which all (ANR) in the near future. speakers participated was very helpful not only to get a
New Trends in Chemistry and Chemical Biology Puducherry with Special Focus on CNS Disorders November 10-11, 2014
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad Université de Rennes, Rennes A seminar on “New Trends in Chemistry and Chemical The aim of the seminar was to discuss research ideas Biology with Special Focus on CNS Disorders” was and initiate new proposals for joint research and S&T organized during 10-11 November, 2014 at Puducherry. cooperation between young researchers of India and
Annual Report | 2014-15 19 France with potential extension of the concept for the methodologies and total synthesis of natural products. The seminar was attended by more than 60 participants participationThe participants and deliberatedbenefit of more on issuesuniversities. and challenges including scientists, medical practitioners and
professional from healthcare industry and the academia. anti-cancer therapeutics, functional materials, novel in the field of chemistry related to CNS disorders, Women in Science through CEFIPRA Bangalore February 3-5, 2015
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. Consulate de France, Bangalore. To highlight and celebrate the contribution of women from France and India. Dignitaries in the inaugural PIs in collaborative Indo-French projects through session included Dr. Manju Sharma, Former Secretary, support of CEFIPRA, an Indo-French seminar entitled Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India (as the Chief “Women in Science through CEFIPRA” was organized Guest), Dr. Anurag Kumar, Director, Indian Institute of at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. Science, and Mr. Eric Lavertu, Consul General of France Apart from bringing together pioneering women at Bangalore. scientists from India and France, the seminar also offered The deliberations at the seminar covered two broad an opportunity for young researchers, in particular young research areas: 1) Health and Life sciences and 2) women, to learn more about Indo-French cooperation Physical and Mathematical Sciences. The structure in science and to meet and discuss their work with of the seminar allowed for plenary talks by eminent successful peers from both India and France. The seminar was attended by almost 250 participants presentations by women researchers involved in joint women scientists from India and France, scientific
20 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Indo-French projects, and two poster sessions by more discussion on “Issues on Women in Science: Focus on than 80 young researchers. There was also a panel Indo -French Collaboration”.
Organic Semiconductor Gas Sensors Reims February 10-12, 2015
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai Université Paris Diderot The seminar on “Organic Semiconductor Gas Importance of implementation of nano structures Sensors” brought together a group of scientists from in sensing layers such as TiO2 and other nanorods. India and France to deliberate on the utility of organic • Importance of surface chemistry to attach sensing semiconductors (i.e. molecular semi-conductors layers. and conducting polymers) which exhibit electrical • Future role of surface science in sensor devices to conductivity in a wide range (i.e. from insulator track biomarkers in the universe to semiconductor to metals) and their potential • applications in gas sensors. The seminar was attended New ideas emerged, for example, implementing by 10 scientists from India and 22 from France. Some carbon nanotube-based sensing layers on • prominent ideas that were generated through discussion gravimetric transducers. at seminar were :
Indo-French Workshop on Scientific Cooperation for Agricultural Research New Delhi 9-12 March, 2015
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi Institut National de la RechercheAgronomique, Paris Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) had entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2003 with INRA & CIRAD to promote & accelerate the progress of research and training in various disciplines of agricultural research between India and France. As a step forward, the workshop on “Scientific Cooperation for Agricultural Research“ was organized from
March 9 to 12, 2015 for exploring various options to Annual Report | 2014-15 21 operationalize the MoU. 14 French scientists from various Adaptation of Agriculture & Forests to Climate Change French institutions focused on agricultural research Diet Impacts and Determinants: Interactions & Transitions and 80 Indian scientists from various ICAR institutes, • Genomics Selection state agricultural universities and representatives from • Study of Transitions for Global Food Security many other national & international organizations • participated in the workshop to formulate possible Ecosystem Services • project ideas in alignment with the meta-programmes Food Processing & Technology of INRA, in the following areas: • •As a follow up to the workshop, two proposals were Sustainable Management of Crop Health Research Programme of CEFIPRA. • received for support under the Collaborative Scientific New trends in Electron Device Modeling Bangalore March 30 to April 1, 2015
Indian Institution/ French Institution/ University University Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore InstitutSupérieure d’ Electronique de Paris (ISEP), Paris An Indo-French workshop on “New trends in Electron Device Modeling” was organized at Bangalore Indian scientists. Around 30 students from relevant from March 30-April 01, 2015. The objective behind departmentsThe workshop of wasIndian attended Institute by of 11Science, French Bangalore and 29 conducting the workshop was to bring the researchers also participated in the workshop. Some of the topics from both countries together by providing them a discussed during the workshop were: compact modeling common platform to exchange ideas, collaborate and of organic devices, asymmetric double gate MOSFETs, work towards the next generation of electron device modeling for device reliability and applications of SRAM model development. design.
Outreach Programmes University of Rennes May 2014 CEFIPRA organized an Outreach Programme Technology cooperation between India and France at the University of Rennes on May 22, 2014 as were presented by various representatives from the Ministry of Science & Technology, Govt. of India Community in order to enhance the awareness and the French Embassy in India. In the Q&A session aboutan effort CEFIPRAs to reach activities out to the and French programmes. Scientific that followed the presentations, Director, CEFIPRA Faculty members and students from various S&T departments of University of Rennes participated responded to the queries from participants about in the programme. Director, CEFIPRA explained variousand members programmes of Scientific of the CouncilCentre. ofPosters CEFIPRA on the role of CEFIPRA as an institution dedicated to catalysing the Indo-French collaboration in were also displayed at the programme venue whichscientific attracted outcomes the ofattention various ofinitiatives the large of number Centre years, and its various mechanisms designed to help of participating students and scientists during the achievethe field its of goals. Science Diverse & Technology perspectives over on the Science last 25 & course of the day. l
22 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Kolkata November 2014 CEFIPRA organized another Outreach Programme successes of Indo-French Science & Technology at Kolkata, India on 20th and 21st November, 2014. collaborations and also to reach out to the scientists, The idea behind the initiative was to reach out to researchers & faculty members on various academic S&T professionals and other S&T stakeholders in and R&D institutions of the region. More than 80 the Eastern and North-Eastern regions of India. faculty members, students, researchers, Small & As a part of the effort, on Day 1 of the programme Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Start-Ups including (20th student Start-Ups, SME clusters, French companies of CEFIPRA were roped in to deliver lectures from different parts of the Eastern & North Eastern on contemporary November) memberstopics in ofdifferent Scientific Science Council & regions participated in this outreach session. Two Technology institutions in Kolkata. panel discussions were also organized as a part More than 70 faculty members, researchers and discussion focused on Indo-French perspectives on students from relevant departments of various Science,of the Outreach Technology Programme. and Innovation While the collaboration first panel institutions participated in the lectures. through CEFIPRA, the second panel focused On Day 2 (21st November) of the Outreach on scope and scale of Indo-French industrial Programme, an interactive session was organized collaboration. The panelists highlighted to utilise at Indian Association for the Cultivation of Sciences Indo-French channels to initiate projects in PPP (IACS), Kolkata. The purpose was to showcase past mode using CEFIPRA as a joint platform. l
Annual Report | 2014-15 23 Kolkata CEFIPRA Lecture Series- 3rd Lecture November 2014 CEFIPRA Annual Lecture Series was started in year Prof. Noselli is an eminent geneticist and 2012 with an intent to increase and enrich the interactions between the best S&T minds of India & interest is the genetics of development on the France as well as young students & researchers. The modeldevelopmental organism biologist.‘Drosophila’. His He specific is credited research with by Prof. Jules Hoffman (Research Director, and bonding (a phenomena found in healing) and cell Memberfirst two oflectures the Board, under CNRS) the inseries year were 2012, delivered and Prof invasionthe identification (a phenomenon of new genesfound controlling during metasis) tissue
Govt. of India) in year 2013 respectively. ‘situsinversus’ that guides the axis of left-right R Chidambaram (then Principal Scientific Advisor, asymmetrywhich has openedof the body. a newfield of research called The third CEFIPRA Annual Lecture was delivered by Prof Stéphane Noselli, Director, Institute of Biology The lecture received a robust response from Valrose (IBV) in Nice, France on 20th November, students and researchers of various S&T institution 2014 at Ballygunge Science College, University of in Kolkata coming forward to attend the lecture. Calcutta, Kolkata. The title of the lecture was ‘Left- The lecture was followed by an informal interaction Right Asymmetry: Lessons from Drosophila’. between the audience and Prof. Noselli on S&T issues covered during the lecture. l
24 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research ENSEMBLE: The Newsletter of CEFIPRA In order to reach out to its stakeholders in a and can also be freely downloaded from CEFIPRA regular and structured manner, CEFIPRA has been website. publishing its bi-monthly newsletter ENSMBLE for The topics covered in the Ensemble varied the past more than two years. from expanded mandate of CEFIPRA across During the year, six issues of ENSEMBLE the innovation chain, enriching the Intellectual were published showcasing the activities and Property Rights etc. as a contributor and catalyst programmes of CEFIPRA to a wider national for nurturing the Indo-French S & T ecosystem audience. An e-version of the newsletter is also while contributing to the global common goods. l disseminated to stakeholders in India and France
Annual Report | 2014-15 25 Making Science, Technology and Innovation Ambassadors for Future 4. Making Science, Technology and Innovation Ambassadors for Future RAMAN-CHARPAK Fellowship Programme nderstanding the value of mobility support CEFIPRA implements this fellowship programme for students in the context of the bilateral on behalf of Department of Science and Technology US&T cooperation, the Raman-Charpak (DST), Government of India and Department of Fellowhip programme was launched during the visit Service for Science and Technology (SST), French of the President of France, H.E. Monsieur François Embassy in India. The programme enables both Hollande to India in 2013. Named in honour of two Nobel Laureates in Physics, Prof. C.V. Raman, cooperation through close collaboration between studentscountries of to India improve and France.and reinforce their scientific
Indian Nobel Laureate (1930) and Prof. Georges were received from students pursuing Ph.D. in Ph.DCharpak, scholars French from Nobel Indian Laureate or (1992), French the research Raman areasDuring ofthe Chemicalyear 2014-15, Sciences, a total ofMedical 179 applications Sciences, institutesCharpak Fellowship / universities is meant to carry for out highly part qualified of their Mathematical and Computational Sciences, doctoral research work in a university / research Engineering Sciences, Life Sciences, Materials institute based in France or India respectively. The Science, Physical Sciences and Atmospheric & fellowship allows the doctoral students not only to Earth Sciences. After review and evaluation, 17 build upon their Ph.D. programme but also to get Indian and 4 French fellows were awarded the access to laboratories which are better equipped Raman-Charpak Fellowship of 2014. & suited for their research work hence improving their overall research skills.
Name and affiliation of host Ph.D. Ph.D. Registered Name and affiliation of Name of the Fellow & Area supervisor (Institute/University University/Institute Ph.D. supervisor visited in India/France) Syama S. Sree Chitra P. V. Mohanan Raphaël Schneider Life Sciences Tirunal Institute for Sree Chitra Tirunal Institue Laboratoire Réactions et Génie Medical Sciences For Medical Sciences and des Procédés (LRGP), UMR and Technology Technology, Trivandrum CNRS 7274, Université de Trivandrum Lorraine, Nancy Pawan Kumar Academy of Scientific Suman L. Jain Rabah Boukherroub Materials Science and Innovative CSIR-Indian Institute of Institut de Recherche Research (AcSIR) Petroleum, Dehradun Interdisciplinaire (IRI), New Delhi Villeneuve d’Ascq Cédex
Gopi S. Reddy Indian Institute of Jayanta Mukherjee Julien Sarrizin Engineering Technology Bombay Indian Institute of Laboratoire d’Electronique Sciences Mumbai Technology Bombay et Electromagnétisme (L2E) Mumbai Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), Paris K. R. Saravanan Academy of Scientific N. Kalaisevi, Sylvain Franger Chemical Sciences and Innovative CSIR-Central Institut de Chimie Moléculaire Research (AcSIR), Electrochemical Research et des Matériaux (UMR CNRS New Delhi Institute, Karaikudi 8182), Université Paris Sud Orsay Arjuna S. R University of Amba Kulkarni Gérard Huet Mathematical and Hyderabad University of Hyderabad Institut National de Computational Hyderabad Hyderabad Recherche en Informatique Sciences et en Automatique (INRIA) - Rocquencourt
28 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Name and affiliation of host Ph.D. Ph.D. Registered Name and affiliation of Name of the Fellow & Area supervisor (Institute/University University/Institute Ph.D. supervisor visited in India/France) Saravanan Ganesan Sri Chitra Tirunal Vikram Mathews Prof .Christine Chomienne Medical Sciences Institute of Christian Medical College INSERM Université Paris Medical Sciences Vellore VII UMRS1131, Institut and Technology Universitaire d’Hématologie Trivandrum Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris V. R. Devarapalli Academy of Scientific Manjusha V.Shelke, Rabah Boukherroub Materials Sciences & Innovative CSIR-National Chemical Institut de Recherche Research, New Delhi Laboratory, Pune Interdisciplinaire (IRI) USR 3078, CNRS- Université Lille 1 Orleans Krishna Gavvala Indian Institute of Partha Hazra Yves Mely Chemical Sciences Science Education Indian Institute of Science Laboratoire de Biophotonique and Research-Pune Education and Research et Pharmacologie; Université Pune Pune de Strasbourg, Strasbourg
Dharmendra University of Rajiv Manohar Abdelylah Daoudi Pratap Singh Lucknow, Lucknow University of Unité de Dynamique et Physical Sciences Lucknow,Lucknow Structure des Matériaux Moléculaires, EA 4476 Université du Littoral Côte d’Opale, Dunkerque Sivasakthivel T Indian Institute of K. Murugesan & Mikael Philippe Engineering Technology Roorkee P. K. Sahoo BRGM Geo sciences for a Sciences Roorkee Indian Institute of sustainable earth, Orleans Technology Roorkee Roorkee Prateek Karandikar Chennai Narayan Kumar, Philippe Schnoebelen Mathematical And Mathematical Chennai Mathematical Laboratoire Spécification et Computational Institute, Chennai Institute,Chennai Vérification, École normale Sciences supérieure, Cachan
Tarun Keswani University of Arindam Bhattacharyya Sylviane Pied Life Sciences Calcutta, Kolkata University of Calcutta Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité Kolkata de Lille (CIIL) CNRS UMR 8204 - INSERM U1019 LabEx ParaFrap LIA CNRS-DBT SIGID, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille Nidhi Chadha University of Delhi M. D. Milton Michèle Allard Life Sciences Delhi University of Delhi Institut des Neurosciences Delhi Cognitives et Intégratives d’Aquitaine UMR - CNRS 5287, Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux Mukta S. Parihar Indian Institute of Abhinav Kranti Sorin Cristoloveanu Engineering Technology Indore Indian Institute of Institut de Microélectronique Sciences Indore Technology, Indore Electromagnétisme et Photonique, IMEP–LAHC-UMR 5130, Grenoble INP-Minatec Grenoble
Annual Report | 2014-15 29 Name and affiliation of host Ph.D. Registered Name and affiliation of Ph.D. supervisor (Institute/ Name of the Fellow & Area University/Institute Ph.D. supervisor University visited in India/ France) Prabhu D Academy of Scientific B. L. V. Prasad, Niki Baccile Physical Sciences & Innovative CSIR - National Chemical Laboratoire de Chimie de la Research (AcSIR) Laboratory, Pune Matiere Condensee de Paris New Delhi (LCMCP), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)-Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC) and Collège de France, Paris Sudhanshu Kumar Academy of Scientific Shankar G. Aggarwal Olivier F.X. Donard Atmosphere And and Innovative CSIR-National Physical Laboratoire de Chimie- Earth Sciences Research, (AcSIR) Laboratory, Delhi Analytique Bio-Inorganique et New Delhi Environnement, Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour CNRS UMR 5254, Pau Himanshu Singh Tata Institute of Kandala Venkat Nadia Izadi Pruneyre Chemical Sciences Fundamental Raman Chary Institut Pasteur-CNRS UMR Research, Mumbai Tata Institute of 3528, Paris Fundamental Research Mumbai François Nunzi Laboratoire Sylvie Corteel Arvind Ayyer Mathematical and D’informatique Laboratoire Indian Institute of Science Computational Algorithmique : D’informatique Bangalore Sciences Fondements et Algorithmique : Applications (LIAFA) Fondements et CNRS UMR 7089 Applications (LIAFA) Université Paris CNRS UMR 7089, Diderot - Paris Université Paris Diderot – Paris Aurore Géraldine Dynamique des Catherine Etchebest, Ramanathan Sowdhamini Vaitinadapoule Structures et des Dynamique des Structures National Centre for Biological Life Sciences Interactions des et des Interactions Sciences, Bangalore Macromolécules des Macromolécules Biologiques (DSIMB) Biologiques (DSIMB) UMR-S665 UMR-S665, INSERM- INSERM-Université Université Paris Diderot Paris Diderot – Paris – Paris, Paris Paris Jlassi Khouloud Interface, Mohamed Mehdi Chehimi Sabu Thomas Chemical Sciences Traitements, Interface, Traitements, International and Inter Organization et Organization et University Centre For Dynamique des Dynamique des Systémes Nanoscience and Systémes, (ITODYS) (ITODYS) CNRS (UMR Nanotechnology (IIUCNN) CNRS (UMR 7086) 7086), Université Paris Mahatma Gandhi University Université Paris Diderot - Paris Kottayam, Kerala Diderot - Paris, Paris Morgat Clément Institut de Elif Hindié, Anil Kumar Mishra Medical Sciences Neurosciences Institut de Neurosciences Institute of Nuclear Medicine Cognitives et Cognitives et Intégratives and Allied Sciences, Defense Intégratives d’Aquitaine, CNRS Research and Development d’Aquitaine, UMR 5287, Université Organization , New Delhi CNRS UMR 5287, Bordeaux, Bordeaux University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux
30 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research CEFIPRA - European School on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ESONN) Fellowship Programme
SONN is a three-week course with emphasis During the year 2014-15, CEFIPRA in collaboration on the laboratory courses (half of the with Joseph Fourier University, Grenoble supported programme was devoted to practical work) the participation of eight Indian doctoral students E th and structured to highlight Nanoscience & in the 11 edition of ESONN training programme Nanotechnologies in areas of Physics, Biology held from August 24th - September 13th 2014 at & Chemistry. The academic and practical Grenoble, France. The programme was primarily courses cover the elaborated functioning and divided into two sessions: Session A and Session B. characterization of nano-objects. The following Indian doctoral students were awarded the CEFIPRA-ESONN Fellowship of 2014.
Session A for Physicists
Atul Kumar Nishad Biplab Pal Subodh Kumar Gautam Mahesh Chandra Prarthana V. D Indian Institute of University of Kalyani Inter-University Indian Institute of Indian Institute of Technology-Ropar Kalyani Accelerator Centre Technology-Indore Science, Bangalore Ropar New Delhi Indore
Session B for Biologists, Bio-physicists or Chemists
S. Kaviya Kshipra Naik Sonam Madani Indian Institute of Technology-Madras Birla Institute of Technology and Indian Institute of Technology-Indore Chennai Science (BITS ) Pilani, Goa Campus Indore
Annual Report | 2014-15 31 Innovation Programmes Through Public Private Partnerships 5. Innovation Programmes Through Public Private Partnerships BIRAC - CEFIPRA Programme
iotechnology Industry Research ii. Indo-French Health Technology have Assistance Council (BIRAC) and Programme BCEFIPRA signed an MoU to improve the competitiveness of Indian Industrial organizations CEFIPRA has expanded its activity by bringing bpifrance through French collaboration. Under this MoU, (a public investment bank) as a new stakeholder and BIRAC will support the Indian Industries and launched the Indo-French Health Technology Programme CEFIPRA will bring homologous organizations in association with Bpifrance and BIRAC in the area of red from France for supporting French Industries. The biotechnology upto pre-commercialization stage. Under following two programmes have been developed this programme, Bpifrance is handling the programme under the MoU: in French side and will also provide support to the French SMEs / Start-Ups. BIRAC will provide support i. Indo-French Challenge Oriented to the Indian collaborators through CEFIPRA. On behalf Programme in Red Biotechnology of BIRAC, CEFIPRA manages the implementation of programme on Indian side and coordinates between with BIRAC- French Embassy-CEFIPRA BIRAC & Bpifrance. BIRAC, CEFIPRA and French Embassy in India This programme will be focused on the development had launched an Indo-French Challenge Oriented of industrial application oriented health technologies Programme in the area of red biotechnology up to pre-commercialization stage in 2 + 2 model. The such as Cancer, Cardiac and Infectious Diseases on areas for collaboration were molecular diagnostics thein the following specific themes: priority areas of both the countries for prediction of diseases like Cardiac, Alzheimer, Cerebral Palsy and Generation of New Assistive Technologies for Mobility of Physically Challenged. Development of new therapeutics. • Identification of new targets or biomarkers. CEFIPRA implements this programme on behalf of Affordable process development for existing • both BIRAC & French Embassy in India. Two projects therapeutics having potential implication on effective • were selected for support (see Table below). industrial scale-up for cost effective production.
S. Project Title Indian collaborator French collaborator No. 1 Oxidized HDL- Apolipprotein A1 as a risk predictor of cardiovascular disorders and development of K. Venkataraman Supriya Kashikar Xavier Santarelli Daniela Balvay novel diagnostics VIT University GeNext Genomics Université de SPAN Diagnostics Vellore (GNG) Private Ltd. Bordeaux, Bordeaux S.A.R.L., Paris 2 MIR-PepKit IVD: R&D of a peptide- based - diagnostic kit for an early detection of a fatal immune response in acute Savita Yadav All Arjun Surya Anna Maria Papini Elian Lati myocardial infarction India Institute of Curadev Pharma PeptLab@UCP- SAS GENEX – patients Medical Sciences Private Limited Laboratoire de Synthèse Director New Delhi NOIDA Organique Sélective et 1 Chemin de Chimie BioOrganique Saulxier 91160 Université de Cergy- Longjumeau Pontoise
34 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research CEFIPRA-Saint Gobain Research India Programme
aint Gobain Research India (SGRI) Ltd. based in Chennai, is a cross - functional R&D centre shortlisted for evaluation by a joint committee of Sof Saint Gobain (Subsidiary of Saint Gobain, CEFIPRA-SGRIagainst the call, Experts. a total Based of five on the proposals decisions were of SA, France) CEFIPRA and SGRI have signed an MoU the Experts Committee, following four proposals during Indo-French Tech Summit in 2013 to launch were recommended for support and have been a programme on “Sustainable Habitat for Hot and/ initiated during the year: or Humid Climates”. From the proposals received
S. Project Title Indian PI and Institution French PI and Institution No. (from Academia) (from Industry) 1. Development of design guidelines for building envelope in tropical climates.
B. Bhattacharjee Vinay Natarajan & Arunvel.T Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi SGRI, Chennai New Delhi
2. Structural performance of OGS Buildings: GFRG vs. Conventional RC building systems
Devdas Menon Satish Gunturi Indian Institute of Technology-Madras SGRI, Chennai Chennai
3. Multi-objective optimization of day lighting systems.
Benny Raphael Arunvel T Indian Institute of Technology-Madras SGRI, Chennai Chennai
4. Controlled experiment for estimating the energy saving potential and indoor thermal comfort improvement by use of high albedo surfaces on pitched concrete roofs Vishal Garg Rathish SA International Institute of Information SGRI, Chennai Technology, Hyderabad
Annual Report | 2014-15 35 6. Other Programmes 6. Other Programmes High Impact Scientific Research Network Programme ince its inception CEFIPRA has been steadfast Network Programme in all the areas of Science & in its resolve towards developing collaborative Technology between India and France, with special Slinkages between individual scientists of India emphasis on areas of Optics, Nano-Sciences, Cold and France. Efforts over past 27 years have led to the Atoms, Synchrotron Science, Computer Science & Bio-informatics, Energy Storage Devices, Metabolic are now well networked with each other. In order Disorders and Infectious Diseases. Six pre- tocreation capitalize of a poolon the of scientistsstrength ofand this scientific network, groups and proposals were received under the programme, as also directed by the Governing Body, the Centre development and submission as full proposals. out of which five were recommended for further hasCEFIPRA launched the- SOLEIL High Impact Synchrotron Scientific Research Programme CEFIPRA has taken an initiative to develop an facilities such as Large Hydrogen Collider Indo-French Network Programme on Synchrotron A(LHC),ccess National to large Large scale Heavy scientific Ion Accelerator research Science. To get this off the ground, CEFIPRA (GANIL) European Organisation for Nuclear and SOLEIL Synchrotron signed an MoU on Research (CERN), European Southern Observatory 14th October 2014 to launch the CEFIPRA- (ESO) and Atacama Large Millimetre Array (ALMA), SOLEIL Synchrotron Programme to facilitate the is critical to address S&T challenges that still evade use of the Soleil Synchrotron facility at Saclay an answer. The Raja Raman Centre for Advance in France by Indian scientists / researchers. Technology (RRCAT) in Indore and Dhruva, BARC While SOLEIL has agreed to make beam-time are few such examples from India. available to Indian scientists at its synchrotron
38 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research facility based on its usual evaluation/review proposals (visits of scientists / researchers) were support to scientists/researchers to carry out selected/supportedassigned by SOLEIL. during The following FY 2014-15. two scientific researchprocess, CEFIPRA& experiments considers during providing the beam financial time
Proposal: In-situ Grazing Incidence X-ray scattering studies of sheared monolayers of a Peptide Antibiotic Alamethicin in the presence of Phospolipids Name of the Proposer: Prof. Ajay.K Sood, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore Scientists /Researcher
Santanu Maiti, Ajoy Kandar Pradip Kumar Bera Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics Indian Institute of Science Indian Institute of Science Kolkata Bangalore Bangalore
Proposal: Detection of emission centres in highly luminescent complex nanomaterials by Extended X-Ray-induced- Photoluminescence Fine Structure (EXPFS) technique Name of the Proposer: Prof. D.D.Sarma, Indian institute of Science, Bangalore Scientists /Researcher
Thirupathaiah Setti Soham Mukherjee Banabir Pal Indian Institute of Science Indian Institute of Science Indian Institute of Science Bangalore Bangalore Bangalore
Annual Report | 2014-15 39 7. Brief Reports of Research Projects a. Collaborative Scientific Research Programme 7. Brief Reports of Research Projects a. Collaborative Scientific Research Programme Completed Projects Computational Science
Project No. : 4502-1 Mar. 2012 - Feb. 2015
Constraint-Based Principal Collaborators Design of Controllers and Prefilters P. S. V. Nataraj Frédéric Goualard Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay Université de Nantes Mumbai Nantes Background Quantitative Feedback Theory (QFT) is a well-known Publications approach for designing robust multivariable control systems. In QFT, the key step is to obtain a controller No. of publications in SCI journals : 8 No. of papers presented in conferences: 4 and prefilter that satisfies various stability and onperformance designer’s specifications.skill and experience. Till date, However, controllers the Mobility Support manualand prefilters approach have usually been designed leads to considerable manually, relying over India to France: 1 designs. Motivated by these concerns, an automated France to India: 2 procedure was proposed for designing robust multivariable control systems, based on QFT and tools of Interval Constraint Satisfaction Techniques (ICST).
Objectives To develop an ICST-based procedure for automated design of QFT controllers for • multivariable systems. To develop an ICST-based procedure for
• multivariable systems. Toautomated develop computer design of code QFT for prefiltersthe proposed for procedures, and to integrate it into industrial • strength MATLAB toolboxes. To test and validate the computer codes through extensive computer simulations. Knowledge/Products Developed • An automatic loop shaping tool for design of robust and codes, via real-time experiments performed • onTo atest magnetic the efficacy levitation of the system developed in the procedures laboratory. • The tool has been applied to some practical real-world Development of an optimization-based problems,controllers suchand filters as DC has motor been developedand magnetic in this levitation project. systems. It is found that the developed tool successfully • a controller in only one step instead of two. Developmentprocedure that of permits the code designing for the a procedure prefilter and in compared to existing methods. generates controllers and filters that are more optimal C++ with bridges in MATLAB instead of directly • in MATLAB.
42 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Completed Projects
Project No. : 4103-2 Aug. 2009 - April 2014
Principal Collaborators Catalytic Antibodies in Immune-Mediated Disorders Valakunja Nagaraja Srinivas V. Kaveri Department of Microbiology and Equipe 16 - INSERM - U 1138 Cell Biology Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore Paris Background Publications The molecular mechanisms responsible for emergence and progression of autoimmunity and No. of publications in SCI journals : 8 No. of papers presented in conferences: 5 aimed at addressing the role of antibodies that are capableinflammation of hydrolysing have remained the target obscure. antigen. The Previously project the importance of antibodies with catalytic activity Mobility Support in hemophiliaA and in sepsis was documented. India to France: 2 In the project, the characterization of factor VIII- France to India: 3 hydrolzying IgG (FHIg) was pursued. The description of hydrolyzingIgG to additional antigen targets was extended. In particular, the characterizing of DNA hydrolyzing IgG in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, and investigate the presence of topoisomerase-hydrolyzing IgG in patients with scleroderma had to be done. Identifying the role of hydrolyzing antibodies would help in better understanding the molecular pathogenesis and conceiving improved therapeutics. Objectives I. FVIII-hydrolyzing IgG Prevalence FVIII-hydrolyzing IgG in patients with acquired hemophilia and follow-up • during disease progression Follow-up of FVIII-hydrolyzing IgG in patients with congenital hemophilia A who Knowledge/Products Developed • have developed FVIII Detection of factor IX-hydrolyzing IgG in the plasma of Inhibitors and are under protocols of patients with acquired and congenital hemophilia. ‘immune tolerance induction’ • Generate monoclonal anti-FVIII antibodies • Discovery of factor IX-hydrolyzing IgG in the plasma of with proteolytic activity to FVIII patients with acquired hemophilia A. II. •DNA-hydrolyzing IgG in patients with systemic • FVIII-hydrolyzing IgG in patients with congenital lupus erythematosus hemophilia A who have developed FVIII inhibitors and Longitudinal follow-up of DNA-hydrolyzing • are underprotocols of ‘immune tolerance induction. IgG in patients with SLE • To generate murine monoclonal anti-DNA antibodies in patients with SLE and in patients with antibodies with hydrolytic activity to DNA • scleroderma.Identification and description of DNA-hydrolyzing • Topoisomerase I-hydrolyzing IgG in patients with scleroderma • To investigate the presence of topoisomerase I-hydrolyzing IgG in patients • with scleroderma
Annual Report | 2014-15 43 Completed Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4503-2 July 2011 – June 2014 Evaluation of Cellular and Immune Response in Mice and Patients with Principal Collaborators Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Treated with Arsenic Trioxide Vikram Mathews Christine Chomienne Christian Medical College Institute of Universitaire Vellore Hématologie, Hôpital, Saint Louis Background Paris Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APML, APL) is a subtype of Publications acute myelogenousleukemia (AML), a cancer of the white blood cells. In APL, there is an abnormal accumulation No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 of immature granulocytes called promyelocytes. The No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 disease is characterized by a chromosomal translocation and is distinguished from other forms of AML by its Mobility Support responsivenessinvolving theretinoic to all-trans acid receptor retinoic alphaacid (RARα)therapy. geneAPL India to France: 2 physicians as a hyper-acutefatal illness. Currently it France to India: 3 iswas one first of characterized the most treatable in 1957 forms by French of leukemia and Norwegian with a 12-year progression-free survival rate estimated to be approximately 70%. But several patients still suffer a relapse. Efforts to improve clinical outcomes in this group are ongoing. Objectives Study antibody responses to acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) in mouse model • of acute promyelocytic leukemia and in APL patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed acute promyelocytic leukemia treated with an arsenic trioxide based regimen. Study immune re-constitution and cellular response to APL in patients with newly • diagnosed and relapsed acute promyelocytic leukemia treated with an arsenic trioxide based regimen. Knowledge/Products Developed Demonstrated the synergistic effect between all- trans DNA vaccine as an adjunct to arsenic trioxide retinoic acid (ATRA) and a DNA plasmid vaccine In a • inStudy the safety treatment and efficacy of a mouse of PML-RARα model oftargeted acute • mouse model of leukemia. promyelocytic leukemia mice with and without all-trans retinoic acid. Demonstrated the absence of synergy with this vaccine when ATO was used as a single agent. The overall goal of this collaboration was to • study the effects of novel agents used in the Demonstrated in-vitro the upregulation of NK cell • treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemic receptors and ligands on malignant promyelocytes in on the immune response through preclinical • a direction that enhances NK cell mediated cytolytic studies in mice models and ongoing clinical activity against malignant promyelocytes. trials in patients. First time demonstrated the presence myeloid derived suppressor cells(MDSC) in patients with acute leukemia. • Successfully transferred the mouse model of leukemia and the use of DNA plasmid vaccine to laboratory and • considerably increased our ability to further pursue research in leukemia. 44 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Completed Projects
Project No. : 4603-2 Dec. 2011 - Nov. 2014 Dynamics of Principal Collaborators Serotonin1A Receptors by Single Particle
Amitabha Chattopadhyay Laurence Salomé Tracking Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology University Paul Sabatier Hyderabad CNRS UMR 5089 Toulouse Background Publications The serotonin1A receptor is an important member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) super No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 family and is implicated in depression and anxiety. No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 Deciphering membrane organization and dynamics of the receptor is crucial in the future development of better therapeutics. The project synergies Mobility Support complimenting expertise of project partners India to France: 3 [analysis of organization, dynamics and function France to India: 1 of the serotonin1A receptor (India) and single molecule diffusion analysis of GPCRs (France)] to address this important issue. The collaborators proposed to compare the effects of chronic vs. acute membrane cholesterol depletion, which induce distinct pharmacological responses, on receptor dynamics. The role of actincy to skeleton in the functional dynamics of the receptor was proposed to be analyzed. The results were expected to provide novel insights on GPCR signaling and dynamics, and help in designing better therapeutics.
Objectives Deciphering membrane organization and Control: HEK-293 cell lines expressing His-Myc-5-HT1A dynamics of the receptor, using single molecule • diffusion analysis. Knowledge/Products Developed Comparison of the effects of chronic vs. acute Production of a HEK cell line expressing His-Myc-5HT1A membrane cholesterol depletion, which induce receptor. • distinct pharmacological responses, on receptor dynamics. • Validation of the full Functionality of the expressed receptors. Analysis of the role of actincy to skeleton in the • functional dynamics of the receptor. Pharmacological responses of serotonin receptors • in basal state, under cholesterol depletion and • destabilization of actin. SPT analysis of the Transfer in receptor as a non raft reference. • SPT analysis of serotonin receptors in basal state, under cholesterol depletion and destabilization of actin • cytoskeleton.
Annual Report | 2014-15 45 Completed Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 4404-1 April 2011 - Sept. 2014 Non-Adiabatic Quantum Reactive Scattering Principal Collaborators Dynamics on Multi-Sheeted
Potential Energy Surfaces Susanta Mahapatra Pascal Honvault Univ. of Hyderabad Université de Franche-Comté Hyderabad Besançon Background Study of dynamics of elementary chemical reaction Publications has undergone major revolution in the recent past. Considerable development is achieved in the experimental No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 and theoretical front. With the advent of high performance No. of papers presented in conferences: 6 computing techniques, it is possible to construct mutidimensional global potential energy surfaces and more accurate quantum dynamics study to enrich our Mobility Support detailed microscopic understanding of elementary chemical reactions. Also reactions can be studied both at India to France: 2 the thermal and ultralow temperature conditions which France to India: 3 additionally yield very reach information on the energy transfer and reaction mechanism in the exotic condition of temperature. The project is aimed to accomplish the mentioned goals. New potential energy surfaces developed. Dynamics is studied quantum mechanically both at the state-to-state and state-selected level and both at the thermal and ultralow temperature conditions.
Objectives Theoretical studies of reactive chemical dynamics beyond Born-Oppenheimer • approximation, development of electronic potential energy surfaces, investigation of nuclear dynamics by quasi-classical trajectory, time-independent and time dependent quantum mechanical methods. Knowledge/Products Developed Salient features of the potential energy surfaces of the electronic ground state of S + O Hand electronic excited • state of the C + OH reactive systems are examined in detail. Optimal grid in the reagent Jacobi coordinates is established. • Time-dependent wave packet propagation is being carried out to calculate reaction probability, integral • cross section and thermal rate constant. Time-independent quantum dynamics of the H+ + H2 reaction at low temperatures is studied using two • different potential energy surfaces. Huge quantum symmetry effects are observed in the O + O2 exchange reaction. • 46 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Completed Projects
Project No. : 4404-2 Jan. 2011 - Dec. 2014
Principal Collaborators Extreme Qcd in the Lhc Era
Rajeev S. Bhalerao Jean-Yves Ollitrault Tata Institute of Fundamental Institut de physique théorique Research, Mumbai CEA Saclay Gif-sur-Yvette Background Publications This project was in the area of Theoretical High-Energy Nuclear Physics being pursued No. of publications in SCI journals : 6 experimentally at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 at CERN. The experiments aimed to test non- perturbative aspects of QCD and to characterize the initial state formed in nucleus-nucleus collisions, Mobility Support the knowledge of which is crucial to extract the India to France: 6 properties of quark–gluon plasma (QGP). To France to India: 7 that end, several new correlation observables were presented. A simple model was proposed to understand the anisotropy generated by initial-
also studied which have the potential to throw additionalstate fluctuations. light on the Event-plane initial-state corelators phenomena. are Using Principal Component Analysis, a new method
in nucleus-nucleus collisions. is developed to study event-by-event fluctuations Objectives The project was devoted to theoretical studies in close relation with the experimental • programme of the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. The broad objective of project was to make predictions for heavy-ioncollisions (mostly, Lead on Lead) at LHC, and contribute to the interpretation of the forthcoming experiments. Knowledge/Products Developed A dedicated experiment, ALICE, has been built A complete set of multiparticle correlation observables for ultra relativistic heavy-ion collisions is presented. other experiments at LHC (CMS and ATLAS) • These include moments of the distribution of the alsoto specifically participate analyze in the theseheavy-ion collisions, program. and Thethe project consisted of fundamental theoretical moments, which contain the information on correlations studies, and also phenomenological studies in betweenanisotropic event flow planes in a of single different harmonic, harmonics. and also mixed direct relation with observables. A guide to the principal component analysis method
• and its application to multiplicity fluctuations and anisotropic flow, using ALICE data and simulated events rapidityare presented. were studied.In particular, This methodelliptic and reveals triangular previously flow unknownfluctuations subleading as a function modes of transverse in both momentum rapidity and transverse momentum for the momentum distribution
as well as elliptic and triangular flows. Annual Report | 2014-15 47 Completed Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 4404-3 April 2011 - Mar. 2015
Distant Obscured Principal Collaborators Galaxies with GMRT and Herschel Yogesh Wadadekar Alexandre Beelen National Centre for Radio Astrophysics Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale Pune Orsay Background A complete understanding of star-formation and active Publications galactic nuclei in the distant universe are best studied by combining far infrared observations with radio data, since No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 both these wavelengths are best able to penetrate the veil No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 of dust that envelops these distant galaxies. To this, the present work combined far infrared data from the European Herschel space telescope with the Giant Mobility Support Meter wave Radio Telescope in India to study a number of India to France: 2 problems in the overall context of understanding distant, obscured galaxies. France to India: 3
Objectives Joint radio-submillimetre-infrared point source catalogue from GMRT/Herschel/Spitzer. • Understanding star formation and AGN emission in high-redshift Ultra-Luminous InfraRed. • radio/submm/mid-IR data. • Galaxies (ULIRGs) in wide fields from combined Statistical properties of star formation in high- By using image stacking techniques, it becomes possible to study redshift Ultra-Luminous Infrared Galaxies. extremely faint radio emission from star-forming galaxies detected in the • Herschel-HerMES survey. This radio stack at the positions of about 1200 Far-infrared and radio properties of Active far-infrared sources shows radio emission at the 400 micro Jansky/beam Galactic Nuclei and their host galaxy. level. • Radio-submillimetre properties of z<~1 AGN imaged with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). • Properties and structure of exceptionally strong Knowledge/Products Developed high-redshift submillimetre sources. Observation of the radio-far infrared (FIR) correlation • Spectral Energy distribution (SED) modelling • • AGNs • Identification and segregation of obscured galaxies and
48 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Completed Projects
Project No. : 4504-1 June 2011 - Nov. 2014
Principal Collaborators Computational Studies of Frustrated Quantum Magnets Kedar Damle Fabien Alet Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Ecole normale Supérieure Mumbai Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse Background Publications Spin liquids are novel states of magnetic matter which show no sign of ordering, even at zero absolute No. of publications in SCI journals : 10 temperature. Their description is a theoretical No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil challenge, and such genuinely new phases of matter are likely to bring with them a plethora of interesting phenomena (such as novel excitations with unusual Mobility Support quantum numbers, which can in some cases serve India to France: 2 as realizations of proposals in the literature for France to India: 2 topological quantum computing). Frustrated quantum magnets, which provide several candidates for realizing such exotic phases, are themselves of intrinsic interest for the manner in which their low temperature behaviour is determined by a delicate
interactions. The project goal was to advance the understandingbalance between of quantumseveral theoretical fluctuations issues and variousrelated to this physics.
Objectives To investigate several open issues at the frontiers of current research developments • in quantum magnetism and other strongly correlated systems. Due to the intrinsic quantum nature of the problem, the computational complexity Knowledge/Products Developed • of strongly correlated problems grows exponentially with the physical system size. This project has led to a much deeper understanding of an important class of variational wave functions, namely To develop and use a mixture of analytical and • the resonating valence bond wave functions for spin- computational techniques (including quantum liquids, including the idea that underlying such spin- • Monte Carlo simulations) to tackle in particular liquid wave functions is an interacting dimer model. It the following issues :
that the transition from Neel order to columnar valence quantum spin systems bondhas also solid provided order onthe thefirst honeycomb unequivocal lattice demonstration is of the - ComputationalExotic deconfined studies quantum of quantum critical dimer points and in related valence-bond systems of the three-fold anisotropy in the phase of the valence - Development of new techniques to study deconfined type in spite of the nearly marginal nature bond order parameter. In addition, this collaboration frustrated quantum systems has led to the development of a new algorithm that allows for large-scale QMC simulations of an interesting class of frustrated antiferromagnets.
Annual Report | 2014-15 49 Completed Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 4604-1 Jan 2012- Dec 2014
Probing Dense Matter and Principal Collaborators Strong Gravity
Sudip Bhattacharya Didier Barret Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Centre d’Etude Spatiale Mumbai des Rayonnements, CNRS, Toulouse Background Modeling of neutron star emissions provide ways to probe Publications supranuclear degenerate matter, and the strong gravity regime to test the general theory of relativity. These No. of publications in SCI journals : 14 No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil laboratory experiments. A high frequency feature, viz., kilohertzfundamental quasi-periodic scientific problems oscillation cannot (kHz beQPO) addressed originates by from within a few Schwarzs child radii of neutron stars, Mobility Support and hence can be useful to address the above mentioned India to France: 2 France to India: 1 reliablescientific tool problems. yet. The Butaim sinceof this the project correct was model to probe of thisthe kHztiming QPO feature properties, is not whichyet identified, will support it cannot the science be used goals as a of the upcoming Indian astronomy satellite ASTROSAT, and ESA’s next generation Xray space missions, in which France is involved.
Objectives The primary objective was to study and understand various properties of a high • frequency feature, viz., kilohertz quasi-periodic
oscillation (kHz QPO), in order to make it a *Superconductivity Measurements On Pure And Cr Doped Lao/Sto useful tool to probe the superdense matter and Heterostructures. the strong gravity regime of neutron stars. *Variation In Superconducting Transition Temperature As A Function Of Gate Voltage For Pure And Cr Doped Laalo3/Srtio3.
Knowledge/Products Developed Developed innovative analysis tools to measure energy dependent phase lag, rms and covariance spectra, and • associated spectral decomposition. These tools have been successfully applied for the RXTE satellite data.
lower kHz QPO from a source 4U 1608522, and for both theMore lower specifically, and upper these kHz tools QPOs have from been another applied source for the4U 172834. Developed a code to semitheoretically model the above mentioned kHz QPO properties. This code uses the • realistic spectral models, and hence provides an excellent way to connect the spectral and timing properties. The outputs of this code are now being compared with the data provided by the French collaborator in order to understand the kHz QPO properties.
50 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Completed Projects
Project No. : 4604-3 Jan. 2012 - Dec. 2014 Effect of Correlations Principal Collaborators in the Statics and Dynamics Extended
Sanjib Sabhapandit Alberto Rosso Systems Raman Research Institute Université Paris Sud Bangalore Orsay Background Publications A spatially extended system, such as a polymer chain No. of publications in SCI journals : 5 of a large number of interacting degrees of freedom. No. of papers presented in conferences: 5 Theor an interactions elastic fluctuating often leadinterface, to strong typically correlations consists between different parts of the system and as a result the system may exhibit rather interesting static and Mobility Support dynamical properties. These correlations are known India to France: 4 France to India: 6 dynamics of such extended systems and give rise to Real applications unusualto induce statistics unusual for first-passage large and rare properties events that in theare not described by the classical extreme value theory developed for uncorrelated variables.
Eric Dumonteuil Objectives The aim of this project was to understand the precise role played by the correlations in such • extended systems and to develop a systematic theoretical understanding of three different effects of strong correlations in such extended systems: (i) the statistics of rare and extreme
Knowledge/Products Developed (iii) avalanche dynamics in both pure and Resetting phenomena : quenchedevents (ii) disordered the unusual systems. first-passage properties interface subject to constant resetting to its initial condition These subjects are actually intimately related and demonstrated that atStudied long times the itdynamics evolves intoof a fluctuatingnovel non- and one of the objective was to make these equilibrium steady states. The physical properties of such a • relations more clear and coherent, so that nontrivial steady state are characterized analytically. results from one area can be fruitfully used to Memory and Aging dynamics in polymer and interfaces: understand physical behaviour of observables It is shown that in extended systems, such as polymers or in other areas. behavioursfluctuating interfaces,characterize the the memory time evolution of the initial of these state objects is lost ubiquitousonly after anin biological infinite time. and physical Power lawssystems. and non-monotonic Rare events and disordered dynamics : It is shown that the particle diffusion on strongly correlated events is affected by the occurrence of very rare and very relevant disordered configurations that obscure the typical behaviour of the system. Annual Report | 2014-15 51 Completed Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 4505-1 July 2011 - June 2014 Development of Fulvene- Based Zr(II) and Ti(II) Chemistry : Principal Collaborators Organometallics, Reactivity and
Applications in Organic Synthesis K. V. Radhakrishnan Jan Szymoniak National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science Université de Reims CNRS UMR 6229 and Technology, Thiruvanathapuram Reims Background Pentafulvenes are readily accessible building blocks Publications in organic synthesis. Their unique unsaturated system gives access to cycloadditon reactions in No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 which the three double bonds of the fulvene system No. of papers presented in conferences: 4
Indian partner of the project has a wide expertise in thecan fulvene-based react as a 2, 4organic or 6πelectron synthesis. component. Fulvenes offer The Mobility Support the possibility of unexplored reactivities towards India to France: 4 the organo-metallic reagents, particularlycolumn IV France to India: 3 transition metal complexes (Ti, Zr) are promising candidates. Infact, organo-metallic complexes of zirconium and titanium in the oxidation state +II are well-known to interact with alkenes and dienes, resulting in a large number of applications in organic synthesis. The interaction of these complexes with fulvenes may therefore reveal original transformations convenient for organic synthesis.
Objectives Introduction of fulvenes as substrates to the divalent chemistry of zirconium and titanium. • In-depth organometallic study to establish the reactivity between fulvenes and divalent • zirconium and titanium species.
polycyclic bioactive frameworks. Knowledge/Products Developed • Synthesis of some five-membered as well as synthesis of a number of molecules with potential biological • activity.Developed Some a numberof the cores of efficientdeveloped methodologies are unique, having for thean indoline and pyraoles fused to the cyclopentene core.
complexes • Titanium-catalysedSynthesis and reactivity hydroalumination of first of metallocene-fulvene fulvenes leading to regio and stereoselective transformation of fulvenes at the • C1 position Unprecedented C-F activation in benzofulvenes Stereoselective access to 3,4-disubstituted alkylidene • cyclopentenes • Straightforward Lewis acid catalysed transformation of fulvenes to polycyclic compounds • 52 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Chemistry Completed Projects
Project No. : 4605-1 Nov. 2011 –Oct. 2014 Studies of Iron Complexes Principal Collaborators of N/O-Functionalized N-Heterocyclic Carbenes
Prasenjit Ghosh Christophe Darcel in Homogeneous Catalysis Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay Université de Rennes1 Mumbai Rennes Background Publications The central theme of this proposal were in the preparation of new and innovative N,O- No. of publications in SCI journals : 3 functionalized N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHC) No. of papers presented in conferences: 3 ligands and their iron and nickel complexes. The potential utilities of these complexes as catalysts were examined in hydrosilylation reactions and Mobility Support borylation reactions. India to France: Nil France to India: 1
Objectives Design and the synthesis of original N,O- functionalized N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) • ligands. Preparation of the corresponding iron complexes. • Use of the prepared complexes as catalyst for organic transformations. •
Mr. A. P. Prakasham at work inside a glove box performing experiments related to the Indo-French IFCPAR-4605-1 project. Knowledge/Products Developed
achiral and chiral imidazole and benzimidazole based • NHCSynthesised ligands, iron and N−heterocyclicthe nickel complexes carbene of 1,2,4-triazolecomplexes of derived amido-functionalized NHC ligands.
• complexesThe Fe−NHC were complexes used in were the used hydrosilylation in the hydrosilylation reactions of aldehydes aldehydes and and ketones ketone and substrates the borylation and the reaction Ni−NHC of aryl bromide substrates.
Annual Report | 2014-15 53 Completed Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 4705-2 May 2012 - March 2015
All Polymer Flexible Gas Principal Collaborators Sensors (Flexi-Sensors)
D.K. Aswal M. M. Chehimi Bhabha Atomic Research Center Université Paris Diderot Mumbai CNRS UMR 7086, Paris Background Chemi-resisitive sensors based on metal oxide Publications semiconductors have been extensively studied for detection of various toxic gases because of No. of publications in SCI journals : 14 their reasonably good sensitivity, stability, and No. of papers presented in conferences: 8 convenience of operation. Nanostructured oxide semi-conductors though exhibit better sensitivity to different gases, their potential for the commercial Mobility Support sensors is hampered by high operating temperatures India to France: 3 and lack of selectivity. Conducting polymers have France to India: 4 also been used as gas sensors because their electrical conductivity changes when they come in the contact of analyte gases and have distinct advantages. However, similar to their inorganic counterparts to sluggish response and recovery. To overcome thesethey, too,problems, suffer fromwork lack was of done specificity, on a new in additionconcept the two worlds namely, metal-oxides andpolymers, couldof organic/inorganic be utilized to obtain hybrid highly films selective so that gasthe sensor.best of Objectives Develop new strategies for covalent grafting of PPy sensing layer on BOPET sheets to ensure proper AFM images of (a) CoPc (b) Au-CoPc films. (c) XRD pattern recorded for CoPc, Au-CoPc films and BOPET samples.(d) Magnified view of • adhesion. the (200) diffraction peak corresponding to CoPc in pure CoPc and Enhancement of the selectivity towards target gases Au-CoPc films. by tuning the electrical conductivity of sensing • layers by embedding various nanostructures into the Knowledge/Products Developed sensing layer. Morphological, structural and low temperature (20- 300K) charge transport studies on nanostructure- • Synthesisselective for of partsPPy-Ag per films million on silanised (ppm) level BOPET detection sheets of by NH3 UV and induced H2S. • Newpolymerization strategies for for synthesis room of temperature highly ordered operated free standingPPy-Ag flexi-sensors
investigationembedded PPy using films. response curve and Kelvin probe • Process for synthesis of highly ordered cobalt phthalocyanine thin • microscopy.The gas sensing mechanism(s) of the flexi-sensors films by photopolymerization. • (~118 cm2/V-s)selective for NH3 chemi-resistive gas sensing. metallic electrodes and investigating the response, films on flexible BOPET sheets exhibiting high charge carrier mobility • Planar flexi-sensors fabrication using interdigitated by diazonium coupling agent for covalent grafting of polypyrrole- • Reproducible modification of the flexible ITO coated PEN substrates sensorsrecovery, by sensitivity modifying and the repeatability nature of sensing of flexi-sensors. layer to Knowledge process/product developed, if any: • hydrophobic.Enhancement of the long-term stability of the flexi- Flexiblesilver (PPy-Ag) gas sensors nanocomposite with controlled films. interfacial chemical composition. • Making of robust conductive/metal nanocomposite sensing coating and second year will be tested again for gas sensing. • by photopolymerization. • Ageing is under test and old samples prepared in first •
54 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Earth and Planetary Sciences Completed Projects
Project No. : 4507-1 July 2011- June 2014
Principal Collaborators Cometary Grains: Observations and Simulations Asoke Kumar Sen Robert Botet Assam University Université Paris-Sud Silchar CNRS UMR 8502 Paris Background Publications The dust tail is the most visually spectacular part of the comets we occasionally see in the night No. of publications in SCI journals : 8 sky. Reaching typical lengths of tens of millions of No. of papers presented in conferences: 5 kilometres, they are composed primarily of smoke- sized dust particles with an average diameter of Mobility Support around a micrometre, and are yellow in colour as India to France: 3 the properties of cometary dust helps in a greater France to India: 3 waythey to shine understand by reflected the formation sunlight. and Understanding evolution of our solar system. Building phenomenological tools validated with both numerical and experimental simulations is extremely important in this context. Use of computers for numerical modeling of grains aggregates (composed of nanometer sized individual grains)is becoming an essential tool to interpret and understand observational data obtained from electromagnetic wave scattering. Objectives To propose a complete numerical protocol to analyze observational data from the light • scattered by cometarycomae dust, in order
properties of the dust particles ejected from a Project Team at work cometto obtain nucleus. definite information about physical Knowledge/Products Developed Numerical protocol for light-scattering data 1 Obtained a set of fully-controlled data about light scattering analysis will be applied to the comet 103P/ by four cometary-coma dust. Some asteroids were observed • Hartley to supplement the direct observations and data on some previously observed asteroids were obtained by the Deep Impact Extended Mission analysed during the project. the comet in October 2010. The(DIXI/EPOXI) ultimate involvedgoal is to in givespacecraft to all flybyscientists over 2 Resultscoated sphere on the modeloptical can features be used of asfive a genericgood approximation. dust particle involved in comet rendezvous missions, a modelsThis gives allowed practical defining shortcut conditions to inobtain which the the optical simple • practical tool to get easy and reliable access to characteristics of the light scattered by astrophysical dust some parameters (particle size and morphology) particles, saving heavy numerical calculations in a number of crucial to foresee the interaction between a applications. Qualitatively compared the observational data probe and the cometary dust particles. to the models to deduce plausible explanation to evolution of the dust particles ejected by the comets 78P/Gehrels
particles exist in the inner coma and fragment into smaller andparticles C/2009 under P1 sublimationGarradd. It process.was concluded that large slow
Annual Report | 2014-15 55 Completed Projects Materials Science
Project No. : 3808-3 Feb. 2010 - Sep. 2014
Puzzling Properties Principal Collaborators of Ultra Thin Films of Polymers Milan K. Sanyal Alain Gibaurd Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics Université du Maine Kolkata Le Mans Background This project focused on studying the puzzling Publications impact of the work is to revisit the stability of ultra No. of publications in SCI journals : 8 properties of ultrathin films of polymers. The major No. of papers presented in conferences: 5
2 thin films using a novel procedure of fabrication and for studying the influence of solvent such as sc-CO Mobility Support onObjectives the swelling and aging of these films. India to France: 4 1. Structural properties: France to India: 3
homopolymer chains and hence the density of • Role of confinement in the conformation of formation of amphiphilic triblock copolymer ultrathin film; Role of concentration in structure 2. Swelling of homopolymer under supercritical ultrathin films. CO2.
• Role(PS) group.of depressurization; Role of 3. Swellingconfinement; of triblock Role of copolymer polar (PBMA) under and controlled apolar humidity. Role of initial structure formation governed by concentration. Schematic illustration of chemical structures and swelling 4.• A top-down approach to prepare a smooth, mechanism of PBMA and PS films. Knowledge/Products Developed Parameters which control the thickness and wetted polymer film less than 7 nm. contrast to the thicker ones. 5.• Metal(Au)-Polymer(PS) hybrid interfacial 1(ii)1(i) LamellarDensification (Layer and by layer) depression structure of with Tg occurs incomplete for thinner (< 4 g/L) PS a complete films in nanostructurestability of film. in the vicinity of Tg. (< 4g/L) alternating bilayers (PEO-PPO) formed on hydrophilic Si. 2(i) Higher swelling (~ 80%) is obtained with increase of depressurization rate (40bar/min). substrate. • Role of Au coverage or distribution; Role of 2(iii) Higher swelling is obtained in PBMA (contains polar carbonyl group) 2(ii) ratherHigher than swellability PS (contains is obtained apolar in benzene thinner group) film compared to thicker ones. 3(i) Initial structure formation of amphiphilic PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer has a great impact in swelling under humidity.
step process, such as (a) Spin-coating (b) solvent rinsing. 4(i) Uniform smooth film (<10nm, even below 2 nm) is achievable by two
4(ii) AuRinsing cluster time is less.and annealingTg, which determineis function the of substratethickness nature,of residual governs film. the 5(i) diffusionAu diffusion of Au into into polymer polymer is matrix. more significant the coverage or size of
56 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Materials Science Completed Projects
Project No. : 4408-1 Jan. 2011 - Sept. 2014 Thermo-Hydrodynamics Principal Collaborators of Phase-Change Induced Oscillating
Sameer Khandekar Jocelyn Bonjour Taylor Bubble Flows Indian Institute of Technology- Kanpur Institut National des Kanpur Sciences Appliquées deLyon, Villeurbanne Background Publications Taylor bubbles, also called ‘gas slugs’ and ‘long No. of publications in SCI journals : 13 section of a pipe such that their buoyant ascent No. of papers presented in conferences: 18 bubbles’, are bubbles that almost fill the cross
causes a film of liquid to fall around them, down Mobility Support bubbles,the walls which of the are pipe. trapped Taylor Bubblebetween flow, liquid-slugs. a subset India to France: 4 Fundamentalof slug flows, isunderstanding characterized byin a sequenceTaylor Bubble/ of long France to India: 3 Slug Flows has been lacking in mini/micro channel geometries under different phase-change processes
The project was focused on bubble dynamics and and flow conditions. in mini/micro/capillary pipe geometries. This associated heat transfer during two-phase flows importance in a variety of situations of practical configuration and these phenomena were of high
MEMS,engineering etc. problems of various fields, from thermal control (heat pipes) to microfluidic devices,
Objectives Fundamental under-standing of Taylor bubble/
Knowledge/Products Developed geometries, under phase-change processes and slug flows was lacking in mini/ micro channel All experimental setups originally planned, were aimed to understand thermo-hydrodynamic fabricated, validated and extensively used. transportsteady/oscillating and response flow conditions.of Taylor bubble/Taylor The project • Complementarity studies resulted in profound impact on understanding of the transport mechanisms of Taylor conditions and its subsequent effect on thermo- • slugs/ Taylor bubbles. slug flows under aforementioned boundary art techniques of High Speed Videography (HSV), State-of-the-art results were obtained, with HSV, IRT Infra-redthermographyfluidic transport coefficients (IRT) byand using Particle state-of Image the and PIV techniques. Velocimetry (PIV). • Excellent publications in reputed international journals and conferences. • Strengthening of mutual relationship between the • partners,Vibrant exchangehence between of students, both the interns,institutions. researchers;
Annual Report | 2014-15 57 Completed Projects Materials Science
Project No. : 4608-2 Nov. 2011- Oct. 2014
Research of New Layered Principal Collaborators Oxides for Energy Storage and Conversion U.V. Varadaraju Valerie Pralong Indian Institute of Technology-Madras Laboratoire CRISMAT, ENSICAEN Chennai CAEN Background Electronic devices are highly dependent on the Publications properties of their power sources that involve layered transition metal oxides. Environmental concern No. of publications in SCI journals : 8 shave encouraged the development of research No. of papers presented in conferences: 8 of new materials. The key of the majority of the physical properties, the most important parameters remain to be the duality between electronic and Mobility Support ionic conductivity that could be generated by the India to France: Nil electrochemical-driven redox reaction. Tuning the France to India: Nil electronic-ionic allows researchers to control the transition metal valences and then the electronic properties that are the basis for a majority of today’s applications. The most relevant example could be the lamellar cobaltite compound Lix CoCO2 commercially used in Li-ion batteries. While the isotypic phase NaxCoO2 is actually intensively as a new thermoelectric material without forgetting the hydrated phase Nax”CoO2 yH2O which presents superconductivity.
Objectives To explore and discover new materials for Rietveld refinement of the as prepared iron hydroxysulfate NaFe3(SO4)2(OH)6XRD pattern. Red dots and black lines are corresponds to observed and calculated patterns, the bottom • original frameworks that could be used as curve is the difference of patterns, yobs−ycal, and the small bars electrodethe energy materials storage. for The Lithium challenge and wassodium to findion indicate the angular positions of the allowed Bragg reflections. batteries. Approach was based on soft chemistry reactions such as exchange or redox reactions. Knowledge/Products Developed Discovering of new structures synthesized based on transition metal phosphate, new phases as electrode material for Na ion batteries:
NaFe3(SO4)2(OH)6 TiOSO • 4 LiTiOPO • 4 barbosaliteFe (PO ) (OH) • 3 4 2 2 Lipscombite with complete iron(III) Fe [PO ] O(OH) • 3 4 2 O, FeF .0.5H O • 2 3 2 • iron fluorides FeF3.0.33H
58 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Biotechnology Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4800-B1 Dec. 2013 - Nov. 2016 Studying the Role of RpoN, the Principal Collaborators Alternative Sigma Factor, in the Pathogenicity of R.Solanacearum, the
S. K Ray Stéphane Genin Causal Agent of Bacterial Wilt in Plants Tezpur University INRA, Laboratoire des Interactions Tezpur Plantes Micro-organisms-CNRS Castanet Tolosan Background Publications Among the different components used for transcriptional regulation in bacteria, the alternative No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 sigma factor, 54, have been reported differently with No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 respect to its role in virulence of plant pathogenic bacteria: rpoN in Pseudomonas syringae is known for virulence but in Xanthomonascampestrispv. Mobility Support vesicatoria, rpoN is not required for virulence. India to France: 2 Quite remarkably, the R. solanacearum genome has France to India: 1 two rpoN genes: rpoN1 (RSc0408) present in the chromosome and rpoN2 present in the megaplasmid. The contribution of rpoN towards R. solanacearum virulence was not known.
Objectives Constitutive expression of rpoN1 as well as rpoN2 in rpoN1 mutant. This will be helpful in • studying complementation ability of rpoN1/ rpoN2 to the rpoN1 mutant. Transcriptomic study of rpoN1, rpoN2, and rpoN1/rpoN2 mutants. • To study pilA expression is dependent on rpoN1. Constitutive expression of pilA in rpoN1 mutant. • Like rpoN1, pilA mutants are twitching motility • Knowledge/Products Developed Experimental validation of the interaction Characterization of a second loss of function mutation betweendeficient. the PehR virulence regulator and in rpoN1. • RpoN1 by heterologous expression study in • Phenotypic analysis of rpoN1 mutants showing that this E. coli. gene is also required for growth on nitrate (in addition Isolation of a R. solanacearum isolate in India • to natural transformation, twitching motility and phylogenetically related to strain GMI1000 virulence) but not for swimming motility. • and to establish an infection system on tomato Isolation of a R. solanacearum strain (named F1C1) from seedlings. a wilted chilli plant in India. F1C1 is phylogenetically • close to the reference strain GMI1000 and was used to establish an in vitro infection assay on tomato seedlings.
rpoN1 and rpoN2 mutants. • Establishment of the transcriptomic profiling of the
Annual Report | 2014-15 59 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Mathematics
Project No. : 4601-1 Dec. 2011 - Aug. 2015
Discontinuous Principal Collaborators Galerkin Method for Nonlinear Acoustics Baskar Sambandam Régis Marchiano Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay Université Pierre et Marie Curie Mumbai Paris Background Weak shock waves are one of the most spectacular Publications features of nonlinearities in acoustics. Since shock waves are characterized by sudden pressure No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil variations, the frequency spectrum turns out to No. of papers presented in conferences: 4 be especially broadband, with low as well as high frequencies. Various frequencies of the spectrum are strongly coupled to one another through Mobility Support nonlinear interactions and hence cannot be India to France: 2 computed independently. Also, nonlinear shock France to India: 1 waves generally propagate over very large distances relative to the main wavelength.
Objectives The direct numerical simulation of the propagation remains a challenging issue. Only 2D simulations of acoustic shock waves in realistic configurations cartesian meshes) have been developed. The using finite differences in simple geometries (regular Discontinuous Galerkin method. The project aims at developingobjective of athe Discontinuous project is to fillGalerkin that gap method by using for the advanced numerical simulation of the propagation of nonlinear shock waves in 2D complex geometries with applications to acoustical problems. Visualization of a nonlinear acoustical waves propagating inside a discus
Knowledge/Products Developed New numerical solver for the propagation of acoustical shock waves in complex geometry has been developed. To reach that goal a numerical method based on the seminal discontinuous Galerkin method was used, and it has been completed by new numerical methods to handle acoustic shock waves. The development of these methods has been elements where a shock is detected and only in these elements. To do that, the following achievements have been reached:the core of the project. The key idea was to regularize acoustic shock waves by introducing artificial viscosity inside »» Development of a new shock sensor for unstructured mesh sensitive to acoustic shock waves, »» »» Introduction of an original notion of gradient factor to compute the amount of viscosity. Formulation of a new element centred smooth artificial viscosity for the equations of nonlinear acoustic »» The numerical solver has been validated by comparisons between numerical results and standard
configurations.
60 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Mathematics Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4601-2 Aug. 2012 - July 2015
Principal Collaborators Analytic Aspects of Modular Forms
J. Sengupta Jie Wu Tata Institute of Fundamental Research University Henri Poincare Mumbai Vandeuvre Nancy Background Publications The study area of the project is number theory, one of the major branches of pure mathematics. Modular No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 forms have been the subject of intense research in No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil analysis, arithmetic, geometry, topology etc. The project objective is to focus on the analytic aspect of these developments. Research interests are related Mobility Support to questions and central themes of number theory India to France: 6 such as the Langlands program, the generalised France to India: 7 Riemann hypothesis and the Birch and Swimmerton- Dyer conjecture.
Objectives The broad theme of the project is number theory. In number theory a prominent position • is occupied by modular forms.
analytic aspects of the theory of modular forms • The specific aim of the project is to study the Knowledge/Products Developed in particular the L functions of modular forms.
of the spinor zeta function. • Quantitative results on the sign changes of the coefficient
Annual Report | 2014-15 61 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Mathematics
Project No. : 5001-1 Mar. 2014 - Feb. 2017 Hypergeometric Functions: Harmonic Principal Collaborators Analysis and
Representation Theory Narayanan E. K. Angela Pasquale Indian Institute of Science University of Lorraine Bangalore Metz Background The hypergeometric functions associated with root Publications systems are representation-theoretical motivated multivariate hypergeometric functions. They No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil originated in the work of Heckman and Opdam No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil (with further contributions by Cherednik) and may be seen as a natural extension of the spherical functions, due to Harish-Chandra, for semisimple Mobility Support Lie groups and Riemannian symmetric spaces. India to France: 2 The study of hypergeometric functions associated France to India: 1 to root systems is nowadays a central theme in many areas of mathematics, such as harmonic analysis, representation theory, combinatorics and probability. Developing Lp harmonic analysis associated to these functions will require new ideas as an underlying group and the associated representation theory is missing in this general situation.
Objectives To develop the Heckman-Opdamtheory of hypergeometric functions in several directions • and to continue the study of hypergeometric functions associated to root systems in a systematic manner and thus develop an Lp harmonic analysis. Knowledge/Products Developed Developed Heckman-Opdam-Cherednik theory on root systems of type BC_n as a generalization of the harmonic • analysis on homogenous line bundles over a non- compact Hermitian symmetric space G/K associated to one dimensional representations of K.
of the invariant differential operators on these bundles • Explicit identification of the algebra to which radial parts this setup. Characterizedbelongs to, allows the boundedus to define spherical Cherednik functions operators in this in
• harmonic analysis. context, thus completing the first step towards Lp
62 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Computational Science Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4702-1 May 2012 - April 2016
Principal Collaborators Arithmetic Circuits Computing Polynomials
Meena Mahajan Guillaume Malod The Institute of Universit´e Paris Diderot - Paris Mathematical Sciences Paris Chennai Background Publications In theoretical computer science, one main question is about how fast computers can solve certain No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 problems: the famous P vs. NP question asks whether No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 some problems inherently need many steps to be solved by a computer. There are many examples of practical problems for which this is conjectured to Mobility Support be true. In this project a related question is studied India to France: 4 VP vs. VNP, both because it is interesting in its own France to India: 7 right and because it is linked to the orignial question (the algebraic geometric approach to P vs. NP relies on VP and VNP).
Objectives The aim of this project is to better understand arithmetic circuit computations of polynomials and related counting and enumeration complexity questions, organised along three main axes : Proving lower bounds for restricted models of computations (multilinear branching • programs), with a particular focus on the computation of the determinant. Finding new natural complete polynomials for Algebraic computation models: Formulas • Valiant, in particular for the class of feasible Knowledge/Products Developed computationsthe classes in theVP, generaland understanding theory defined the by role of the characteristic in results of VNP During this period, two papers are presented in completeness. prestigious peer-reviewed conferences, both papers • completeness, parallel complexity, space marking significant advance in the aims of the project. • boundedDefining orcomplexity refining for notions enumeration of reduction, and studying enumeration questions related to polynomials computed by circuits.
Annual Report | 2014-15 63 Ongoing Projects Computational Science
Project No. : 4700-IT-1 May 2012 – Feb. 2016 Multilingual Word Spotting Principal Collaborators for Degraded
Documents Umapada Pal Nicolas Ragot Indian Statistical Institute Université François Rabelais Tours Kolkata Tours Background In India and France (but not only) there are huge Publications scanned documents some of which are historical documents often are with noisy background and No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil broken foreground, handwritten, with graphics No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil etc. For retrieval and categorisation of documents from this huge database, Optical Character Readers (OCR) are not usable. That is the reason why word Mobility Support spotting received an increasing interest during the India to France:5 past few years since it allows querying using image France to India: 4 comparison and does not rely on any transcription/ annotation. Even if some pieces of work on word spotting have been done, it remains a challenging issue, especially considering multi-lingual aspect, robustness to partial degradations of words, multi- oriented text. The project will be mainly dedicated to printed modern and historical documents (but extension to handwritten documents could be considered) written in main Indian languages like Bangla, Devnagari and Telugu, along with English collaborative countries. and French languages for the benefit of the two Objectives The goal of the project is to develop a word spotting method which is an interesting • alternative to OCR for document indexation Knowledge/Products Developed A word-spotting prototype is under development. The Graphical historical, graphics, handwritten etc.). The main User Interface is operational and a general toolbox in C++ about objectivesand retrieval that of need specific further documents research (degraded, are to be • elastic matching algorithms has been developed. The word able to: spotting engine based on this toolbox has to be integrated (with pre-processings) into the GUI to make the prototype software » retrieve candidates not exactly similar to the » operational. query. The Flexible Sequence Matching (FSM) approach based on »» search inside graphical parts with multi- Dynamic Time Warping algorithm and its variants has been oriented text. • improved again. New elastic matching algorithm, called ESC »» and take care of multilingual scenario. (Elastic Sequence Cardinality) has now the following properties: allows to skip elements in target lines at beginning/end and to skip
query at beginning/end and to skip local variations of query. Thelocal developed degradations two-stage or variations approach of target; for word allows spotting to skip inelements graphical in documents has been improved to handle Latin as well as Indian • scripts. The text/graphic separation part has also been improved.
64 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Computational Science Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 5100-IT-1 Mar. 2014 - Feb. 2017
Principal Collaborators Monte Carlo and Learning Schemes for Network Analytics Vivek S. Borkar K. Avrachenkov Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay Inria Mumbai Sophia Antipolis Background Publications The project aims to approach various computation problems in network analytics by means of No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) and related No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil simulation techniques as well as machine learning algorithms such as reinforcement learning, ant colony optimisation, etc. This will include network Mobility Support diagnostics such as ranking, centrality measures, India to France: 1 computation on networks using local message France to India: 2 passing algorithms, resource allocation issues pertaining to networks and network-based systems such as the internet, peer-to-peer networks, social networks. The work will involve both development of analytical tools and extensive validation thereof using simulation studies. The research will draw upon techniques from graph theory, probability, optimisation, and distributed computation.
Objectives To approach various computation problems in network analytics by means of Markov Chain • Monte Carlo (MCMC) and related simulation techniques as well as machine learning algorithms such as reinforcement learning, ant colony optimisation, etc. Knowledge/Products Developed Development of analytical tools and extensive Whittle index based policies for crawling ephemeral content validation thereof using simulation studies. • The research will draw upon techniques from graph theory, probability, optimisation, and • MCMC based algorithm for estimating edge conductance was in web search engines was developed and analysed; distributed computation. • Decentralised stochastic approximation algorithm for semi- superviseddeveloped with learning potential on graphs application was developed, to graph compression; analysed and • Theoretical analysis of metastability in replicator dynamics withtested; noise on complex networks was done and tested with • Rumour source detection algorithm in absence of temporal informationMonte Carlo basedand approach;partial precedence information was • developed based on MCMC and tested.
Annual Report | 2014-15 65 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4403-1 April 2012 - March 2016
Collective Migration Principal Collaborators in the Fly Nervous System K. VijayRaghavan Angela Giangrande National Centre for Biological Institut de Génétique et Sciences, Bangalore de Biologie, Moléculaire et Background Cellulaire, Strasbourg Metastasis is the prime cause of deaths in most of Publications the cancer patients. Cell migration is one of the most important aspects of cancer cells during metastasis. No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 To invade, cancer cells interact with the surrounding No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 healthy cells and migrate along the body. Because of its occurrence deep inside the body of a patient, Mobility Support scientists already know is that cancer cells migrate India to France: 1 toit canmetastasize be very but difficult how does to study this process this issue. take Whatplace France to India: 2 and what can be done to prevent still makes the object of intense investigation. Using a simple model organism to study cell migration it is proposed to decipher some of the salient aspects of cancer metastasis, with a focus on molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer invasion and collective migration.
Objectives To analyze the molecular mechanisms underlying cell migration, a key process in • development and in metastatic events. The
signaling molecules controlling migration may leadidentification to better therapeutical of novel molecular targets cascades in cancer. and Knowledge/Products Developed Adhesion molecule N-cadherin is an important determinant of tumor progression that acts as a molecular brake during collective migration The unconventional N-cadherin cascade involved in collective migration • Connecting intrinsic and extrinsic cues controlling collective cell migration • The glial determinant controls the expression of the Netrinchemoattractant receptor Frazzled • The Netrin pathway and glial migration
•
66 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4503-1 Sep. 2011 - Aug. 2015 Studying the Principal Collaborators Interactome of NAD- Dependent Deacetylase
Ullas Kolthur Seetharam A. Gonzalez de Peredo Sirt1 in the Mouse Testis Tata Institute of Fundamental Research CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie et de Mumbai Biologie Structurale Toulouse Background Publications Sirtuins are NAD-dependent proteins that link metabolic inputs to cellular and organismal No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil physiology. In mammals there are 7 sirtuins of which No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 three are localized to the nucleus (Sirt1,Sirt6, Sirt7), three to the mitochondria (Sirt3, Sirt4, Sirt5) and one in the cytoplasm (Sirt2).Due to their ubiquitous Mobility Support expression and dependence on NAD they have been India to France: 2 implicated to play a critical role in affecting normal France to India: 1 and pathophysiology including age-related diseases such as cancer, obesity and diabetes. Despite several reports that have highlighted their cellular functions, upstream signals that mediate post
partners are largely unclear for several sirtuins. This projecttranslational aims tomodifications uncover the (PTMs)molecular and mechanisms interacting
Sirtuins and their interacting partners. (full length andof sirtuin short functions isoformsof by investigatingSirt1 and the modifications evolutionarily of conserved mitochondrial sirtuin Sirt4). Unless upstream and downstream modulators of sirtuins are studied, efforts at delineating their key roles in aging mechanisms will remain unknown.
Western blot shows acetylation of CDK1 in cells Knowledge/Products Developed Objectives analyses • Identified novel isoform of Sirt1 based on MS/MS novel Sirt1 interacting proteins (both full length and Differential interactions of the Sirt1 splice • Identification of the interactome of Sirt1. • delta-E2Performed isoforms) high throughput from cells in analyses culture and and from identified tissues variants. • interactome. Standardised and established methodologies to analyse • Functional validation of the identified • acetyl-proteomeIdentified novel interacting of cells and proteins tissues of Sirt4 Sirt4. • Unravelled the role of acetylation in regulating CDK1 • Identification of proteins that interact with functions in cell cycle progression • Proteome. • Identification of Sirt1 dependent Acetyl
Annual Report | 2014-15 67 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4603-1 Nov. 2011 - Oct. 2015 Genome-Wide Recruitment Profiling Principal Collaborators of BLM After DNA
Damage Sagar Sengupta GaëlleLegube National Institute of Immunology Cellulaire du Controle de la New Delhi Proliferation, CNRS UMR 5088 Background Toulouse Mutation in the BLM helicase results in Bloom Publications Syndrome (BS), an autosomal recessive disorder Patients with BS exhibit hyper-recombination and are No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 prone to almost all forms of cancer. Although previous No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil work from our groups and others, have clearly implicated the BLM protein in the DNA Double Strand Breaks (DSB) response and repair, its exact role in Mobility Support these pathways still remains to be fully deciphered. India to France: 1 A new system has been developed recently which France to India: Nil annotated DSBs across the genome This technology is capable of generating sequence-specific and multiples breaks at high resolution, when coupled to highcan bethroughput used to technologies profile DSB repairlike ChIP-chip proteins and around ChIP- seq. Using this system, it is proposed to generate the human genome, before and after DSB induction. This willfirst becomprehensive a major step towardsrecruitment characterizing map of BLM how on BLM the accumulates at DSB sites, and reveal the factors that contribute to its recruitment. Objectives
AsiSI-ER, in asynchronous cells. • ChIP-chip profiling of BLM at DSBs generated by in synchronized cells. • InvestigateProfiling of BLMthe determinants at DSBs generated that control by AsiSI-ER, BLM accumulation at DSBs. •Knowledge/Products Developed Demonstrated that BLM and H2AX are present at the double strand breaks (DSBs) upon DNA damage induction in U2OS-AsiSI-ER cells Provided evidence that BLM and H2AX are present in a chromatin bound complex at the sites • of double stand breaks Successfully carried out the genome-wide recruitment of BLM following DNA damage Carried out validation of BLM recruitment at DSBs. Determined the effect of BLM depletion on resection. • Carried out the cell synchronization studies to determine the recruitment of BLM at the DSBs at different phases of the cell cycle • Demonstrated the recruitment of BLM in S and G1 phase of the cell cycle Shown how BLM interacts with different repair machineries in S and G1 phase of the cell cycle. Provided evidence that the recruitment of BLM to the site of • damage depends not on ATM but on MRN complex Mechanistically shown that the interaction between BLM and MRN complex regulates its recruitment to the DSBs
• 68 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4603-3 May 2013 - April 2016
Principal Collaborators Catecholestrogens in Fish Reproductive Endocrinology K. P. Joy Alexis Fostier Banaras Hindu University INRA,SCRIBE Varanasi Rennes Background Publications The importance of estrogens in vertebrate female reproduction is well known. However, little is No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil known about the role of estrogen metabolites No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil (catecholestrogens) which are considered as metabolic wastes. The project aims to decipher the synthesis and function of catecholestrogens (CE) Mobility Support India to France: Nil biology which are known to involve strong estrogen duringregulation two and important action, i.e. phases gonad of sex fish differentiation, reproductive France to India: Nil Two complementary models will be used, the Indian and final oocyte maturation (FOM). project, Next Generation Sequencing technologies catfishwill be and used the to rainbow acquire trout. a genomic In the first data part base of thefor
rainbow trout. Using these data, oligo-nucleotide catfish,microarrays such awill data be base setup being to studyalready the available effect inof CE on embryonic gonadal transcriptome in trout,
Attention will be paid to the potential role of CE on theand expression ovarian transcriptome of genes involved in trout in steroidogenic and catfish. regulation. Besides, the expression of enzymes involved in CE synthesis will be investigated using Sections of vitellogenic follicles in the ovary of catfish showing quantitative PCR in both species. immunolocalization of cyp1a1 (B&C) and comt (E&F) in the follicular layer. A and D are controls. T – thecal layer, G – granulosa layer. Objectives Knowledge/Products Developed Synthesis and functional role of Next generation sequencing & Microarray • oocyte maturation catecholestrogens in catfish and rainbow trout • tissues successfully completed, sequences cleaned. and Measurement of ovarian catecholestrogens and • dataSequencing base positively of 5 cDNA tested. libraries An Agilent from mRNA oligonucleotides of 5 catfish hydroxylase activities during oocyte maturation 58K microarray designed and is available for ordering • in trout, expression of genes involved in CEs by the Indian partners. synthesis, CE effects on the transcriptome of • In vitro production of catecholestrogens. trout post vitellogenic ovarian follicles After incubation, culture medium processed for steroid Functional role of catecholestrogens in rainbow extraction using ethylacetate and cyclohexane. HPLC trout sex differentiation • with reverse phase C18 column used to detect steroids • Building a new model of endocrine regulation of present in the extraction. P4- incubated oocytes recorded ovarian differentiation and oocyte maturation • involving CEs. oocytes. DHEA was higher in P5- incubated oocytes than P4-a high incubated level of oocytes.17α- conversion P5- incubated than theoocytes P5- incubatedproduced It is evident that oocytes are tuned towards synthesis of MIS even in presence of P5 steroid. Annual Report | 2014-15 69 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4703-1 Sept. 2012 - Jan. 2016 Anti-Factor H Autoantibody Principal Collaborators Associated Hemolytic
Uremic Syndrome Arvind Bagga Marie-Agnès Dragon-Durey All India Institute of Medical Sciences INSERM UMRS 82, Cordeliers New Delhi Research Center, Paris Background Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), characterized Publications by acute kidney injury, micro-angiopathic haemolytic anemia and thrombo-cytopenia, is the No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 most common cause for acute dialysis in children. No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 Presence of auto-antibodies to complement factor H (CFH) is an important cause of atypical HUS across the world, especially in south Asia. While >85% Mobility Support patients with anti-CFH associated-HUS show a India to France: 3 polymorphism, it is speculated that environmental France to India: 2 or genetic factors might be necessary for the disease to manifest. Preliminary results from Europe show an association of aHUS with HLA-A24, but there is lack of such information in Indian patients. Similarly there is no data on the frequency of mutations in other genes, including CFI, CFB, C3, CD46, DGKE and thrombomodulin in patients with antibody-negative aHUS. Objectives Validate anti-factor H antibody assay in India and establish a normal threshold. Median complement factor H (CFH) antibodies during remission in • Obtain genetic insights into the mechanisms patients with (N=7) and without subsequent relapses (N=38). In patients of immunization against factor H by: (i) with relapse, the last antibody titer is the one estimated 1–3 months before relapse. Generalized estimating equations approach on log transformed • data; P=0.017 for the overall comparison controls.determining MHC haplotype; (ii) examine Knowledge/Products Developed Screendeficiency for ofmutations CFHR1 in in patients, genes implicated relatives and in susceptibility to HUS. Validation & clinical application of anti CFH assay. • Set up and validated quantitative and end point PCRsas Study anti-factor H cellular immune response, • through constitution of a peripheral blood an alternative to MLPA for diagnosing the deletion. • mononuclear cell and plasma samples bank of • MHC Data. Increased frequency of the HLA A24 allele patients with HUS and anti-FH IgG antibodies and a lower frequency of the HLA A11 allele observed in Determine microbial triggers associated with • patients’ group as compared to the Control group. the disease, by: (i) collection of clinical and Mutations in genes implicated in aHUS. Mutations in • biological data, (ii) parasitological and bacterial MCP and surface expression of the protein (CD46). exam of the stools, and screening for fecal • Sequencing of MCP shigatoxin, (iii) serological identity of infections. Evaluation for shiga toxin (Stx). Microbial triggers. • Anti-factor H cellular immune response. • •
70 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4703-2 June 2013 - May 2016 Integrating Hox and Principal Collaborators Chromatin Mediated Transcriptional
Rakesh K. Mishra Yacine Graba Regulation Centre for Cellular and IBDML-CNRS Molecular Biology Campus Universitaire de Luminy Hyderabad Marseille Background Publications factors, the Hox proteins, accomplish rich functional No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil diversityHow only aremains handful poorlyof highly understood. specific transcription Previous No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 approaches on understanding their mode of action have focused mainly on studying how protein Mobility Support partners of the PBC and Meis family of sequence India to France: Nil gene recognition. As chromatin and not naked DNA France to India: 1 isspecific the in vivo transcription template for factors Hox proteins, influence it is Hox proposed target to investigate how chromatin regulators mediate Hox protein function.
Objectives The goal of this project is to understand how Acetylation control by KATs-HATs and KDACs-HDACs. Acetylation chromatin regulators impact on Hox proteins that and deacetylation of proteins at lysine residues are mediated by lysineacetylases (KATs or HATs) and deacetylases (KDACs or HDACs). are transcription factors with key functions in KATs/HATs transfer an acetyl-group of acetyl-CoA to the _-amino group development and disease. The objectives are as of an internal lysine residue. The reverse reaction is mediated by KDACs- follows: HDACs and requires Zn2+, whereas sirtuins requires NAD+. To explore if homeotic response elements Knowledge/Products Developed (HREs) and chromatin regulator response In the fat body, hox genes are performing a non- • elements (CREs) overlap. To explore if chromatin regulators directly • understand the transcriptional targets, HREs, of these interact with Hox proteins, and if post hoxspecific, genes evolutionarily in the fat body, conserved HA-tagged function. hox proteins In order are to • over expressed and carried out ChIP for ChIP-seq. interactions. The libraries of abd-A and Abd-B have been made and translational modifications regulate these have been submitted for NGS analysis. The libraries of proteins and chromatin regulators in chromatin • Dfd and Ubx are being made for the purpose. • contextTo explore and theits functional specific crosstalk validation. between Hox
Annual Report | 2014-15 71 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4803-1 Oct. 2012 –Oct. 2016 Molecular Mechanisms of Principal Collaborators Immune Evasion by
M. Tuberculosis K N Balaji Jagadeesh Bayry Indian Institute of Science INSERM UMR S 872, Institut national de Bangalore la santé et de la recherchemédicale, Background CNRS ESPCI, Paris Mycobacterium tuberculosis, an etiologic agent Publications of tuberculosis, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The interaction of M. No. of publications in SCI journals : 17 tuberculosis and immune system is of dynamic No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil process and implicates several cellular and molecular partners. The central theme of our proposal concerns molecular dissection of immune Mobility Support evasion mechanisms of M. tuberculosis and designing India to France: 2 tools for the conception of novel vaccines. Overall, France to India: 2 our proposal addresses both basic and medical sciences and is expected to deliver preventive and therapeutic tools to combat tuberculosis.
Objectives
of tuberculosis patients and to correlate its • relevanceTo study differential to disease progression.microRNA (miRNA) profile To explore the role of innate pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and intracellular signaling • dynamics in the modulation of miRNA expression by virulent antigens of M. tuberculosis. Ac2PIM-responsive, TLR2-SRC-FAK-PYK2-CREB-CBP/P300-dependent miRNAs, miR-150 and miR-143, target RIP2 and TAK1, respectivelyto To decipher the role of candidate miRNA in the suppress NOD2-induced PI3K-PKC"-MAPK-#-catenin-mediated pathogenesis/protection against tuberculosis in expression of immunomodulators like COX-2, SOCS-3, and MMP-9.] • vivo. Knowledge/Products Developed To dissect molecular immunoregulatory function of Haemoxygenase-1 (HO-1) and • M. bovis • CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), the two major regulators of immune response the course BCG-induced of infection. miR-31 and miR-150 fine-tunes • to an antigen/pathogen, in the pathogenesis of • M.pathogen-specific bovis BCG-induced TLR2 KLF4 signaling was essential events and to orchestrate thus shape tuberculosis. calibrate CIITA/MHC-II expression. To study the impact of Tregs on miRNA miR-155the epigenetic and miR-31-mediated modifications mediated augmentation by miR-150 of WNT and expression pattern and HO-1-mediated immune SHH pathways is necessary for the sustained and long term • regulation towards M. tuberculosis and to • inhibition of autophagy of host cells. conceive novel vaccine and adjuvant candidate. miR-146a plays a crucial role to establish novel crosstalk To study the immunological functions induced by the immunodominant mycobacterial PE_ • Rv3812 (PE_PGRS 62) is highly immunogenic and is a potential • PGRS proteins in the host. candidatebetween NOD2-SHH for boosting signaling BCG-induced during immune gut inflammation. responses. To investigate the role of PD-L1 on the induction • Neutralization of programmed death-1 ligand 1 on of IFN-ã and IL-17 responses. • • production in CD4+ T cells. dendritic cells enhances Mycobacterium-mediated IFN-γ 72 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4803-2 Feb. 2013 - Sep. 2016
Principal Collaborators DNA-Encapsulated Quantum Dots for Bio-Imaging Yamuna Krishnan Benoit Dubertret National Centre for Biological Sciences Labortoire de physique Bangalore d’Etude des Matériaux, Paris Background Publications Investigation of novel methods of bio-conjugation No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 are two areas of active interest at the interface of No. of papers presented in conferences:1 nanoparticle-biomedicalon QDs and fine-tuning research. the surface In that chemistry regard, there is both scope and interest in developing Mobility Support conjugation chemistries that can be generalized India to France: 1 result in stable products in high yield. The focus France to India: 1 offor this different project nanoparticles has been to develop and biomolecules; such strategies, and evaluate their pros and cons and spearheading the conjugates toward cutting edge applications, such as intracellular imaging.
Objectives To create a new class of host-cargo complexes where an icosahedral DNA capsule that encases • the Quantum Dots (QDs) in its void space. To assess the applicability of the hereby generated complexes for targeting in-cellulis, • for bioimaging applications. Knowledge/Products Developed
conjugation of DNA to QDs coated with an already • establishedSignificantly polymer1 improved from theour group. understanding about Generated highly bright and stable QDs labelled with DNA in high yield, where the DNA retains its base • pairing properties and hence the conformation. These conjugates have been validated to be stable for long duration and appropriate for bioimaging.
Annual Report | 2014-15 73 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4803-3 Jan. 2013 - Dec. 2015 Mechanisms of Lysine acetyltransferase (KAT/HAT) activation Principal Collaborators by small molecule activators and Use Thereof in Memory Tapas Kumar Kundu Anne-Laurence Boutillier Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Laboratoired’Imagerie et de Advanced Scientific Research NeursciencesCognitives, CNRS UMR 7237 Background Bangalore Strasbourg Publications inhibitors) were found to enhance memory functions Drugsand ameliorate that target disease these phenotypes modifications in AD models. (HDAC No. of publications in SCI journals : 11 In this project, we have developed a permeant No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 activator of acetyltransferase, CSPTTK21, as a new mean to trigger brain acetylation in vivo. We show Mobility Support of long-term memory in wild type mice, and exerts India to France: Nil that CSPTTK21 efficiently supports the persistence France to India: 2 maturation of newly-generated neurons. We have anow benefic demonstrated effect on adult that such neurogenesis, compound by fully increasing restores memory functions in a mouse model of tauopathy. In addition, our transcriptomic (RNAseq) and of synaptic plasticity-related signatures linked to the epigenomicdisease, that (ChIPseq) can be corrected data lead at theto the epigenome identification level by our HAT activator CSPTTK21. Thus, We propose to modulate histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity of enzymes such as CBP as a constructive alternativeto HDAC inhibitors for Alzheimer’s and related diseases. Objectives Differential entry of nanoparticles into the brain cell nucleus. After 72 hours (3 days) of intra-peritoneal injection of Fe3O4@CBC (a and c) To use small molecule activator(s) of histone and Fe3O4@CNT (b and d) in BALB/c mice, brains were processed for acetyltransferase conjugated with a glucose confocal microscopy. Blue color represents nuclear staining with Hoechst. • Yellow shows the nanoparticle fluorescence. carbon nanosphere as a tool to induce histone derivedhyperacetylation cell permeable in mice brain. self fluorescent Knowledge/Products Developed To elucidate the mechanisms of induction of Preclinical studies of HAT activator in a mouse model of the acetylation and its downstream effect gene AD/Tauopathy. The HAT activator molecule, injected intra- • expression in the neural tissue. • peritoneally either in sub-chronic or chronically, fully restores The role of histone acetylation in development long-term spatial memory functions in 8 month-old Thy- of newly-generated neurons and in spatial Tau22 mice, a model of tauopathy. The molecule also restores • memory formation will be studied in details. To understand the therapeutic potential injections also restores proper adult neurogenesis processes of HAT activator(s) in the treatment of inLTD the that diseased is otherwise mice (arboristaion deficient in andthis developmentmouse model. of Chronic double • neurodegenerative disorders especially, cortin neurons). Alzeimer’s disease (AD), using a transgenic Epigenomic effects of HAT activator action in a mouse model of mouse model of the disease. AD/Tauopathy : Integrated ChIPseq/RNAseqanalyses were led To study the immunological functions induced • in 8 month-old Tau mice, either trained for spatial memory or by the immunodominant mycobacterial PE_ in home cage and shown that sub-chronic injections of the HAT • PGRS proteins in the host. activator molecule are able to partly correct the epigenomic To investigate the role of PD-L1 on the induction dysregulations observed in the Tau mice hippocampus at • of IFN-γ and IL-17 responses. specific genomic loci binding acetylated-H2B. 74 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4803-4 Jan. 2013 - Dec. 2015 Novel Nanotechnological Principal Collaborators Approaches for Treatment of Leishmaniasis Using
V. Kesavan Philippe Loiseau 2-Propylquinoline Indian Institute of Technology- Madras CNRS BioCISUniversité Chennai Paris-Sud 11 ChatnayMalabry Background Publications Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease, is endemic in large areas of the tropics (including India) and No. of publications in SCI journals : 3 the Mediterranean basin (including France). The No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 disease consists in four main clinical syndromes from which Visceral Leishmaniasisis fatal if left untreated. Control strategies rely on reservoir and Mobility Support vector control, together with the use of insecticide- India to France: 2 impregnated materials that are not very successful. France to India: 3 Therefore, chemotherapy is presently the only fully effective control strategy. The current treatment of Visceral and Cutaneous Leishmaniases relies on limited number of toxic drugs. Development of new anti-leishmanial drugs and new formulations to concentrate them into the macrophages where the parasites are located is an urgent need.
Objectives To design novel nanoformulations of 2-propylquinoline (2-PQ), an emerging drug 3-Allyl-3-hydroxyoxindoles were synthesized in very good enantio- (up • with potential for the treatment of leishmaniasis to 97% ee) and diastereoselectivities (drup to 7.6:1) with contiguous in humans. quaternary and tertiary stereogeniccenters by employing tartrate derived bi(oxazoline) in Pdcatalyzedallylation of 3-OBoc-oxindole. in vitro and in Knowledge/Products Developed • vivoMore : specifically, this project aims to prepare, 2-n-propylquinoline (2-n-PQ) had shown interesting in »characterize» a liposomal and formulationtest for efficacy of 2-PQ able to vivo anti-leishmanial activities after administration by concentrate the drug in the liver and spleen • oral route on leishmaniasis animal models. for treatment of visceral leishmaniasis Two strategies were developed, one focused on soluble »» water-soluble polymer conjugates with drug-polymer conjugates and the other one dedicated to 2-PQ able to prolong the half-life of the drug • particles systems. in the blood circulation Aliposomal formulation of 2-n-propylquinoline, »» long-circulating nanoformulations for dedicated to the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis disseminated leishmaniasis able to carry • has successfully been prepared and, some quinolines the drug throughout the body derivatives have been synthesized for in vitro and in vivo »» a liposomal formulation containing both anti-leishmanial evaluation. 2-PQ and Amphotericin B to combine the advantages of the two drugs for visceral leishmaniasis preventing the development of drug resistance
Annual Report | 2014-15 75 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4903-1 March 2013 - Feb. 2017 Control of Melanosome Principal Collaborators Biogenesis by Small
GTPases Subba Rao Gangi Setty Graça Raposo Indian Institute of Science Institut Curie, CNRS UMR 144 Bangalore Paris Background Publications within retinal pigment epithelialcells and epidermal melanocytesMelanosomes in are which cell type-specificmelanin pigments organelles are No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil synthesized andstored. They are “lysosome-related No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil collaborators, they coexist with late endosomes andorganelles” lysosomes. but, Studies as first have shown been in performed the group in of Mobility Support the past to decorticate several aspects of early India to France: 1 and latemelanogenesis. Stage I pre-melanosomes France to India: 1 correspond to early endosomal vacuolesthat serve as intermediates for cargo bound both for lysosomes and melanosomesat different stages. Using High Pressure Freezing and electron tomography it form in association with intra-luminalendosomal has been shown that pre-melanosome fibrils sheets upon which melanin deposits. Melanin synthesismembranes during and that late fibrils melanogenesis assemble into requires fibrillar delivery of melanogenic enzymes from yet still distinct endosomal domains.
Objectives Investigate the role of small GTPasesRab proteins Regulatory-domain-deficient STX13 mutants localizes to melanosomes. • functional melanosomes in melanocytes. Investigatein endosomal the function trafficking of andGTPases generation of the Arl of Knowledge/Products Developed family in the formation of melanosomes. • Characterized several endosomalRabGTPases that steps, melanosome biogenesis and transfer are • endosomal domains during melanosome biogenesis. • Investigate how GTPases-dependent trafficking Unraveledregulate different a previously protein unknown trafficking post steps Golgi-melanosome from different melanocytes. influenced by interaction of keratinocytes with pathway required for melanogenesis and controlled by • Rab6AA’ GTPases. Highlighted a role for Arf-like GTPase (ARL4A) that regulatemelanosome biogenesis by controlling AP-3 • dependent cargo transport to melanosomes.
76 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4903-2 Mar. 2013 - Feb. 2017 Study of Neural Principal Collaborators Development in HiPS Models of
Shyamala Mani Pierre Gressens Microcephaly Indian Institute of Science INSERM U 676 Bangalore Paris Background Primary Microcephalies (MCPH) are a genetically Publications and clinically heterogeneous group of autosomal No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 recessive disorders characterized by reduction No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil of brain volume associated with intellectual production of mature neurons during neurogenesis. disabilities,Because animal which models result are inadequate from insufficient for full Mobility Support understanding of these pathologies, it is aimed to India to France: Nil create humanized models of MCPH by inducing France to India: Nil healthy and MCPH patients into pluripotent stem cellularcells (hiPSCs) reprogramming and use these of dermal cells fibroblaststo study neural from correct genetic context. Mainproliferation, challenges specification of the project and are differentiation technical: in the Human embryonic stem cells handling, neural differentiation and validating the functionality • of the neuronal phenotype obtained in vitro and in vivo. human cells using viral methods. • To acquire specific skills in reprogramming their neural and cortical differentiation. • To acquire specific skills in hiPSCs handling and Objectives To study neural development in vertebrates and notably to use mouse and human embryonic stem Differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into mature • cells (ESCs) to understand key steps of neuronal cerebellar granule neurons. differentiation and model human diseases. To differentiate human ES cells into cortical neurons Knowledge/Products Developed • To generate human induced pluripotent stem and use dermal fibroblasts from patients carrying STIL mutations is being created. • • ToFor study the first Microcephaly time, a humanized in context, model it is ofimperative MCPH1 and to To(hiPSCs) differentiate cell lines normal from normaland patient human hiPSCs fibroblasts lines use human models and the use of iPSc technique allows intoand patientsneural progenitors fibroblasts mutated and differentiated in MCPH1. cortical • obtaining stem cells and neural precursors from the • neurons. patients themselves. Thus, these cells are reliable models To study cell cycle and proliferation of neural for the study of neural proliferation/differentiation in progenitors from normal and patient hiPSCs. • the genetic context of patients themselves. markers and connexions • To study study mode cortical of cell neurons division specification and centrosome (layer composition in neuronal progenitors derived from • hiPSCs.
Annual Report | 2014-15 77 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 4903-3 April 2013 – March 2016 Transcriptomics and Metabolomics in Patients Principal Collaborators with Steroid Non-Responsive
Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis Shiv Kumar Sarin Richard Moreau Institute of liver and Centre de Recherchesurl’Inflammation Biliary sciences Inserm U773 Background New Delhi Paris In India and France, patients with severe alcoholic Publications hepatitis are treated with corticosteroids. However, only 40% of patients respond to corticosteroids No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil and non-responders are at high risk of short-term No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil death. To date, there is no established alternative or additive treatment to corticosteroids. Moreover, Mobility Support corticosteroid therapy. India to France: Nil there are no identified predictors of the response to France to India: Nil Objectives To identify baseline molecular mechanisms that predict the subsequent response or non- • response to corticosteroids. To identify molecular mechanisms associated with the response to corticosteroid therapy. •
Correlation plot depicting the maximum point expressing a correlation of more than 0.5 as depicted in red Knowledge/Products Developed Standardization of High resolution mass spectrometry
• plasma samples Characterizationbased method for ofmetabolite urine and identification plasma proteomes in urine and in different groups of patients • Standardization of Next Generation Sequencing based
• Standardization of Next Generation Sequencing based identification of MicroRNA present in the PBMCs. • transcriptome of Liver tissue and PBMCs. identification of differentially regulated genes in the
78 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4903-4 May 2013 - April. 2016
Principal Collaborators Global Transcriptomics of Sex-Specific Splicing
Arun Kumar KP Leonard Rabinow Centre for DNA Centre de Neurosciences de Fingerprinting & Diagnostics Paris Sud Hyderabad Orsay Background Publications Sex determination, an integral precursor to sexual reproduction, is required to generate phenotypically No. of publications in SCI journals : 5 distinct sexes. Although only two distinct sexual No. of papers presented in conferences : Nil phenotypes are produced in different organisms, the molecular components of sex determination pathways regulating sexual differentiation are Mobility Support bewilderingly diverse. The insights used into insect India to France: 2 France to India: 1 Drosophila, obtained using extensive molecular and sex determination mechanisms are from the fruit fly those obtained in the commercially important silk- moth,genetic Bombyxmori. tools, and comparingThe current these state findingsof knowledge with on insect sex determination reveals two striking
2) autoregulation of key genes involved in the sex determinationfeatures: 1) sex cascade. specific Thesplicing current of pre-mRNAs work is further and
operating in Drosophila and Bombyx, as well as identifyingexploring and new comparing factors acting the in specific these processes. mechanisms
Objectives
splicing of pre-mRNAs via high-throughput • sequencingTo characterize of andcDNAs compare (RNA-Seq), the sex in specific two Dredd alleles enhance sex transformation intra 2/þ; tra/þ double insect species, a male heterogametic system heterozygotes and indsxheteroallelic XX animals. (Drosophila melanogaster) and a female heterogametic system (Bombyxmori). Knowledge/Products Developed To analyze and compare the novel molecular players involved in sex determination in these • two insect model systems. and 120 hours post oviposition) in Bombyx mori, which • isRNA-seq being useddata infor sex analysing specific differentearly stage cellular embryos processes (78, 96 including sex determination, dosage compensation and alternative splicing. RNA-Seq data on wild-type male vs. female Drosophila heads, as well as versus Doamutants (2 alleles, both • sexes) and fnemutants, in duplicate biological and technical replicates at great sequence depth (up to 130 x
106 reads/sample/run), available on GEO (GSM928376, GSM928377, GSM928383, GSM928384, GSM928392, and GSM928393). Annual Report | 2014-15 79 Ongoing Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 5003-1 Jan. 2014 - Jan. 2017
Muscle SC Self- Principal Collaborators Renewal: A Stressful Matter? Jyotsna Dhawan Ana Ferreiro Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Université Paris Diderot Regenerative Medicine (inStem) Paris Background NCBS, Bangalore Neuromuscular disorders represent a large Publications proportion of genetic disease burden worldwide, with very few treatment modalities available. No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil The mechanisms leading to disease are poorly No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 understood: while intracellular oxidant activity is increased in the absence of SelN, suggesting an antioxidant role, SelN interactions and functions are Mobility Support India to France: 2 France to India: Nil micenot well suggests defined. that Loss SelN of muscle is a novelstem cellskey (satelliteactor in maintainingcells; SC) and muscle regenerative progenitor capacity stemness. in SelN The mutant study will help to understand better the mechanisms determining muscle stemness and their therapeutic applications in regenerative medicine.
Objectives To delineate the role of SelN as a novel key actor in the molecular control of self-renewal, activation • or differentiation in muscle progenitors using ex vivo and in vitro strategies.
and epigenetic regulation of muscle progenitor • cellTo define fate. the link between SelN, oxidative stress
A muscle fibre with satellite cells Knowledge/Products Developed Loss of SelenoproteinN1 leads to increased activation of quiescent myoblasts, while over-expression of • Selenoprotein N1 does not appear to perturb cellular function. The increased activation caused by siRNA to SelN is not reversed by addition of anti-oxidants nor can it be • mimicked by the addition of H2O2, suggesting that SelN has an important function outside of redox homeostasis. Microarray analysis comparing SelN knockdown and wildtype cells has yielded a large data set which is being • mined for clues as to SelN function. We expect to make great headway in this area in the coming year.
80 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4604-2 Dec. 2011 - Nov. 2015
Principal Collaborators Slow Highly Charged Ion Molecule Collissions
C P Safvan Amine Cassimi Inter University Accelerator Centre Centre de Recherchesur les Ions New Delhi Caen Background Publications The project proposal is to the interaction of highly charged ions with neutral molecular targets at No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 very low energies. Such studies are important No. of papers presented in conferences:2 in understanding the dynamics and kinetics of processes occurring in both man-made and natural environments. For example, the secondary ions Mobility Support produced in the interaction of cosmic rays, solar wind India to France: 4 and energetic photons in the upper atmosphere, France to India: 3 interacting with the rest of neutral gas molecules. A knowledge of the fundamental processes taking place in such conditions would help in a detailed understanding of the phenomenon like the ozone hole etc. Several man made plasma environments like those present in plasma processing of materials would also be better understood.
Objectives To develop instruments and to carry out experiments for the study of the interaction of Simion simulation for optimization of the voltages on the electrodes of • very low energy highly charged ions with neutral the deceleration lens; 1–6 are the electrodes of the lens. It also shows the deceleration lens and RPA used in unison to measure the plasma (reaction microscopes). The usual production potential. andmolecules extraction using mechanisms time of flight for highly spectrometry charged Knowledge/Products Developed very slow ions. Therefore the work done so far Developed beams of slow highly charged ions, and hasions been preclude at intermediate efficient formations (tens of keV)of beams or high of characterize them. (MeV) range. • Simulations for extraction of fragment ions formed in To develop such low energy beams and to study the collisions of such highly charged ions have been the interaction with neutral molecular targets. • conducted. • The slow nature of the collisions will allow the Several experiments on ion molecule collisions have electron clouds of the target and projectile to been conducted and data analysis is in progress. respond to each other, and allow non-Franck- • Condon transitions with different fragmentation patterns as compared to fast ion collisions.
Annual Report | 2014-15 81 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 4604-4 Oct. 2012 – June 2016 Real-Time Imaging Through Fog Over Principal Collaborators Long Distances
(RITFOLD) Hema Ramachandran Mehdi Alouini Raman Research Institute Université de Rennes Bangalore Rennes Background The problem of imaging through turbid media has for Publications long elicited great interest in the optics community. This fascination may be attributed to very interesting No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 fundamental aspects of light propagation through No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 diffusive media on the one hand, and the large potential for applications on the other, like optical imaging through tissues in medicine, detection of Mobility Support hidden impurities in dairy and paint industry, or India to France: 2 augmented-vision through diffusive atmosphere for France to India: 2 navigation and transportation safety. For the last application, several techniques have been developed either using time-consuming image reconstruction strategies (inversion algorithms) or cost-prohibitive time-gating techniques which employ a pulsed light source and a time-gated ultra- fast camera to detect ballistic photons. It would and easy-to-implement alternative systems that (a) Comparison of the contrasts obtained for three representations of couldtherefore be beimplemented beneficial to on develop small cheap,aircrafts, portable and the polarimetric images for frames labeled as [I] and [J] in figure1(b). introduced on small airports that are not equipped The source region, is bounded by the 3 × 3 pixels red square and is with radio-frequency Instrument Landing Systems the background region between the two blue squares of sizes 11 × 11 (ILS), which represents the state of the art for pixels and 21 × 21 pixels. (b) CNR-maximizing 1D search over values of v keeping u = 1 for the two frames. assisted landing under poor visibility. Knowledge/Products Developed Objectives Developed camera-control and automation software for To develop a real-time, long-range imaging imaging in any weather condition. system providing visual assistance under low • Developed rugged high-polarimetric source that can be in • visibility conditions. Two imaging techniques will be explored, implemented, tested and • Optimised choices of polarimetric representation for optimized. Both are based on the detection of contrastthe field enhancementin all weather. under different weather conditions ballistic photons, i.e. the potentially few photons • that have not (or marginally) been scattered by sub-sampling imaging due to unacceptable signal-to-noise the diffusive medium. • ratioRealization and dynamics of unsuitability for long-range of intensified viewing through cameras fog. for To examine the applicability of our techniques to the problem of aircraft landing under poor • • intensity-modulatedSimulations confirmed light speedupsources, instead of data-processing of the usual will be conducted to test these techniques under Fourierby use decomposition. of matched filteringThis is to be for used image in real retrieval situations. of realvisibility. atmospheric To this aim, conditions. extensive field experiments Invention and development of an apparatus for imaging through turbid media using high-frequency modulated • light (under patent procedure).
82 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4704-1 May 2012 - July 2015
Principal Collaborators Two-Dimensional Electron Gas Physics in Oxide Heterostructures Anjana Dogra Jérôme Lesueur National Physical Laboratory Laboratoire de Physique et d’Etude New Delhi des Matériaux (LPEM), ESPCI Paris Background Publications Despite the tremendous research on the oxide hetero-interfaces in the last decade, the origin No. of publications in SCI journals : 13 of q-2DEG in these systems is still under debate. No. of papers presented in conferences: 11 It appears to be associated to both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. The transition metal oxide hetero- structures provide new opportunities to understand Mobility Support the effects of broken inversion symmetry on the India to France: 2 interaction between spin, charge and orbital degrees France to India: Nil of freedom in highly correlated electron systems. Moving from Ti to V in the 3d transition metal series, results in all the interfaces turning out to be metallic. But this behaviour ceases to exist in the
systems with Cr or Mn. Even though the LaCrO3 is an anti-ferromagnetic band insulator. This dramatic change in the properties of the interface on going
from LaTiO3 to LaMnO3 is yet to be understood. Thus, doping effect of Cr at Al site in the LaAlO3/ SrTiO3 interface needs to be studied to investigate the effect of this magnetic entity on the 2DEG and other related phenomena such as superconductivity, photoconductivity and related Kondo problem.
R(T) curves of a LAO/STO Finite size scaling analysis of Scheme of the electronic Objectives interface for different back- the data from which the critical phase separation which gate voltages showing the exponents product z has could explain the anomalous The original aim is to study the physics of the two superconductor-insulator been measured. fluctuation dynamics observed quantum phase transition dimensional electron gas which takes place at the
LaTiO3/SrTiO3 interface with three main objectives: Knowledge/Products Developed Phase diagram of the superconducting 2DEG in
Precise controlled unit cell growth of epitaxial LAO/STO and Cr LaTiO3/SrTiO3 interfaces doped LAO/STO using pulsed laser deposition technique with • Electronic correlations in LaTiO3/SrTiO3 based • in-situ RHEED. heterostructures. • Doping LaTiO /SrTiO structures with Mn or Co. interface with X-ray photo emission spectroscopy (XPS) in order 3 3 • toSuccessfully understand grown the metal ultra to insulator thin (6uc) transition films and with probed Cr doping. the • In photoconducting investigation, increase in both photo- response and relaxation time with Cr doping is observed. In • Study of the interplay between Superconductivity, Spin orbit couplingaddition anand anomalous Kondo effect peak onwas Cr-doped observed LAO/STO at 690nm. interfaces. • Role of the electrostatic doping.
• Discovery of a new type of superconducting fluctuations with an anomalous dynamics driven by density fluctuations (z=3 and=1/2). Annual Report | 2014-15 83 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 4704-2 Oct. 2012 –Aug. 2016 Correlations and Transport Far From Principal Collaborators Equilibrium in
Nanosystems Pareek Tribhuvan P. Mireille Lavagna Harish Chandra Research Institut Nanosciences et Institute, Allahabad Cryogénie, CEA, Grenoble Background The project aims at designing the electronics Publications components of the future and being able to manipulate the spin via the application of external No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 are strongly felt and Coulomb interactions between electronsfields. At thisbecome scale thevery quantum strong. mechanics The important effects challenges are the control of the quantum effects Mobility Support occurring in these strongly-correlated nano systems India to France: 3 in equilibrium as well as in non-equilibrium France to India: Nil conditions so that the generated spin can be easily manipulated. These are precisely the objectives set in this project, the study on a theoretical level of the electronic transport through strongly-correlated notably under non equilibrium conditions, and the exploration of the possible techniques of spin manipulation. This effort will be pursued in relation with the experimental teams working along this direction.
Objectives Differential Fano factor F as a function of gate energy εο and To study non-equilibrium quantum phenomena bias voltage Vs (both normalized by Γ) at kbT/Γ in strongly correlated nano scale systems values of the freqency : (a) hω1 • like for instance quantum dots in which the (b) hω2 =0.1 for two central region marked by strong correlations is /L=0.1 (low frequency) and /L = 1 (high frequency). connected to metallic leads. Knowledge/Products Developed To study the induced currents and more Methodological advances on the consideration of non- • the presence of spin-independent tunneling equilibrium effects in transport though an interacting betweenspecifically the thecentral noise region at and finite the frequency leads. in • quantum dot. Examine other ways of achieving nonequilibrium Development of a numerical code allowing the as the application of a time-dependent bias or calculation of spectral density, electrical current and • gate voltage. • linear/differential conductances. Predictions for the transport though a quantum dot when a current is injected in one of the leads. • noise spectrum in a noninteracting quantum dot. • StartingPredictions of a project for the whose non-symmetrized objective is the finite-frequency determination of the spin-polarized current through an interacting • quantum dot in the presence of Rashba interactions.
84 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4704-3 May 2013 - Feb. 2016
Principal Collaborators Rotating and Curved Boundary Layer Instabilities Rama Govindarajan Benoit Pier TIFR Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences Ecole Central de lyon, CNRS Hyderabad Ecully Background Publications undergo transition to turbulence by vastly different No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil Shear flows display a wide range of instabilities and No. of papers presented in conferences: 3 routes. The dynamics of wall-bounded shear flows determines global flow quantities of such friction Mobility Support thatcoefficients are curved and andheat rotating. transfer Curvaturerates. In many and practical rotation India to France: 1 bothconfigurations have a major of interest, role instabilityfluid flows aroundand transition objects France to India: 2 to turbulence, but the combination has not been studied very much. The combination is likely to display different behaviour from merely the sum of its parts.
Objectives
• Computation of the unperturbed flow fields; • Linear stability analysis of these flows; • Derivation of fully nonlinear wave trains; Knowledge/Products Developed • CharacterizationSecondary stability of the analysis fully developed of these global finite- amplitude solutions; • for publication, linear stability analysis performed. flow dynamics. • Rotating cylinder,channel: axialstudy flow: completed base flow and study submitted submitted for publication. • simulations ongoing. • Rotating pipe: rough stability cylinder, analysis cross-flow: ongoing. two-dimensional
•
Annual Report | 2014-15 85 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 4904-1 Mar. 2013 - Dec. 2016 Reversals of a Large Scale Field Principal Collaborators on a Turbulent
Background Mahendra K. Verma Stephan Fauve Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur Ecole Normale Supérieure Kanpur Paris Background According to geophysical observations, the magnetic Publications No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 howeverfield of the reverses Earth is approximately known to have reversedevery eleven with No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil years.random A recent time interval.laboratory The experiment solar magnetic using a fieldvon features for different parameter regimes. The above Mobility Support Karman flow of liquid sodium exhibits similar India to France: Nil France to India: 2 field reversals bear certain similarity with the reversals of the large scale velocity field in turbulent convection, as well as in Kolmogorov flows. The interestrecent experimental in the studies observations of magneto of magnetichydrodynamic fields generated by turbulent flow have prompted new applicationsflows in liquid in geophysics, metals and astrophysics, plasmas. and Such various flows industrialraise both processes. fundamental problems, as well as find Objectives
abruptly change their polarity. • To understand study how why and a why small these number large of scale large fieldsscale modes nicely capture the reversal dynamics For Rayleigh Bénard convection with free-slip boundary • although these systems are strongly turbulent. condition with aspect ratio = 2, Ra = 107 and P r = ∞: the To study the geometry of the reversals, i.e. the snapshots of the temperature and velocity fields at four times modes that are involved in driving the system near a flow reversal. • from one state to the one of opposite polarity, and their relation to the symmetries of the problem. To identify some of the possible triggering mechanism for the random reversals and study • their statistical properties. Knowledge/Products Developed Experiments and numerical simulations on quasi two-dimensional turbulence with Kolmogorov-like forcing
• Increasing further the large-scale dissipation, the reversal regime disappears as shown by the probability also show flow reversals and condensate behaviour. • Shown experimentally that the distribution of the waiting time between successive reversals generates 1/f type density function of the velocity fluctuations that bifurcates from bimodal to Gaussian. • noise in the low frequency spectrum of the velocity fluctuations. • Performed numerical simulations of turbulent convection for infinite Prandtl number with free-slip walls. and showed interesting correlations between the flow reversals and the nonlinear interactions among the large- scale flow structures . 86 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4904-2 April. 2013 - Dec. 2016 Studies of Spin Ladder and Heavy Principal Collaborators Fermion Systems in Extreme Conditions of Hydrostatic or Uniaxial
S. Arumugam Daniel Braithwaite Pressure and Low Temperature Bharathidasan University CEA Tiruchirappalli Institut Nanosciences et Cryogénie Grenoble Background Publications Discovering and understanding the new states of matter found in the rich phase diagrams and No. of publications in SCI journals : 11 competing ground states of strongly correlated No. of papers presented in conferences: 5 electron systems represent some of the most challenging problems in condensed matter physics. Mobility Support India to France: 1 landscapeResearch in of this phenomena field relies but strongly also to on manipulate the use of high the France to India: 1 delicatepressure balance and magnetic between fields the variousto explore phases the complex in order to study the quantum phase transitions between them. This research is essentially fundamental, aiming to better understand the rich physics of the
extend to a much wider area of physics and even to somefield. of However the applications the implications of tomorrow. of this research
Objectives To gain further understanding of the novel and competing orders that exist in two families of strongly correlated electron systems, namely spin ladder and heavy fermion systems, and improve the expertise of the 2 groups through a sharing of Powder X-ray diffraction patterns for La Sm O F BiS 1-y y 0.5 0.5 2 technology. Single crystal samples will be grown in CEA Knowledge/Products Developed Grenoble . • Measurements under hydrostatic pressure at Learning of electrical resistivity measurements using Diamond Anvil Cell (DAC) is being under progress. • carried out in Grenoble. An Indian post-doc will • Diamond Anvil Cell has been fabricated at CEA, Grenoble below hired temperature and trained and in high these magnetic techniques. field will be and it will be brought to CHPR during the Postdoc visit to CHPR in December 2015. Measurements under uniaxial pressure will be performed in Bharathidisan University. Samples Joint measurements on the spin ladder system Sr3Fe2O7 • will be prepared in Grenoble. • to their high pressure phase diagrams. Measurements The technology of hydrostatic pressure will be and heavy fermion system YbNi3Al9 bring new insight transferred from Grenoble to Bharathidisan point in a europium system. • University. on EuNi3Ge5 reveal a first possible quantum critical The correlation of uniaxial and hydrostatic pressure experiments will bring new insights • into the complex phase diagrams.
Annual Report | 2014-15 87 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 4705-1 May 2012 - Oct. 2015 Development of Carbon Nanotube- Principal Collaborators Metal Hybrid
Catalysts Irishi N. N. Namboothiri Eric Doris Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay CEA SACLAY Mumbai Gif-sur-Yvette Background Publications heterogeneous catalysts that can catalyze a variety ofConstruction organic transformations of highly efficient with andhigh recyclable degree No. of publications in SCI journals : 15 of selectivity is an attractive objective from an No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 academic as well as an industrial perspective. For these novel catalytic systems, carbon nanotubes (CNT) are preferred due to their low cost, stability, Mobility Support high surface area, inertness, tunable topography, India to France: 2 and ability to stabilize transient higher oxidation France to India: 3 states of supported metals. Although CNT-supported noble metal catalysts have been employed in recent years in selected organic transformations their performance has been unpredictable due to poor distribution of metal nanoparticles along the nanotube,.This problem was proposed to be overcome by uniformly embedding the metal nanoparticles on the functionalized nanorings around CNT. Such a catalyst system was expected to in various organic reactions. be robust and exhibit superior catalytic efficiencies Objectives Design and construction of metal catalysts supported on carbon nanotubes (CNT): • Proposed to be carried out via self-assembly Proposed mechanism for the oxidation of primary alcohols. of surfactants that form supra-molecular Knowledge/Products Developed nanorings around the CNTs and anchoring Novel metal-CNT nanohybrid catalysts were synthesized of metal nanoparticles on the CNT-nanorings and their activity in various organic transformations resulting in supra molecular structures that • under very mild conditions such as low catalyst loading, room temperature and open air was investigated. heterogeneous catalysts in various organic Synthesis and catalytic application of Pd-CNT in the reactions.would function as highly efficient and recyclable coupling of aryl halides with boronic acids for the Nanohybrids as catalysts in organic • transformations: The study of gold (Au), to carbonyl compounds demonstrated. • palladium (Pd) and platinum (Pt) embedded synthesisDehydrogenation of biaryls ofand N-heterocyclesWacker type oxidation and oxidationof olefins on the CNT-nano rings was proposed as these of a variety of substrates such as hydroquinones, metals are known to be excellent catalysts for • hydroxylamines, silanes, hydrazines and thiols were diverse organic reactions. successfully carried out using a Rh-CNT catalyst. Previously reported Au-CNT was utilized for the synthesis of heterocycles such as quinoxalines and • deoxygenation of amine-N-oxides.
88 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Chemistry Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4705-3 May 2012 - Nov. 2015 Correlated Studies of Principal Collaborators Response Properties of Open-Shell Molecules in
Ankan Paul Trond Saue the Relativistic Framework Indian Association for the Cultivation Université de Toulouse 3 of Sciences, Kolkata Toulouse Background Publications The overall objective is to develop computational tools for the study of reactivity and properties No. of publications in SCI journals : 7 of molecules containing heavy elements. Such No. of papers presented in conferences: 6 complexes often display complicated electronic structure. Actinides in particular have several Mobility Support features such as numerous energetically close India to France: 6 them a challenge for theoretical chemists. It France to India: 2 isorbitals proposed and significantto address relativistic these effectschallenges making by consolidated and successive developments of high level of correlation theory combined with relativistic corrections.
Objectives -1 Dissociation energies De (in cm ) for the homonuclear rare gas dimers. To develop computational tools for the study The first five data points are derived from experiment, 83 whereas the final two points correspond to the values obtained int he present work of reactivity and properties of molecules DCG with the X2 MM Hamiltonian at the CCSD(T) level and extraplated to the • containing heavy elements. basis set limit. Developing state of the art electron correlation methods (coupled-cluster) providing highly • accurate results for molecules displaying Knowledge/Products Developed relativistic effects, on par with what has been Development and implementation of a suite of many- achieved for light elements. body theories to treat strong electron correlation, both • for studying potential energy surfaces and precision spectroscopy in a spin-free manner. Generalization of the above theories to include scalar relativistic effects for systems with medium heavy atoms. • First 4-component relativistic coupled cluster code for the calculation of expectation value which includes spin- • orbit coupling from the start. Simulation of X-ray absorption spectra of heavy element compounds in a fully relativistic manner. • Development and implementation of relativistic many- body theory for understanding and interpreting core- • ionization and core-excitation spectroscopy.
Annual Report | 2014-15 89 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 4805-1 Jan. 2013 –Mar. 2016 Supra-Molecular Approach to Composite Principal Collaborators Materials for Advanced
Technologies Uday Maitra André Del Guerzo Indian Institute of Science Institut des Sciences Moléculaires, Bangalore CNRS UMR 5255 University Bordeaux Background Bordeaux Materials with functionality controlled by molecular Publications composition and order can revolutionise soft solvated materials or optical nano-structured No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 materials. Bottom-up approaches using self- No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil assembly are the most appropriate routes for the synthesis of gel-phase soft materials, copying the advantages of biological systems but exploiting Mobility Support synthetic accessibility and robustness. Nano- India to France: 3 and micro-structures controlled in size, shape, France to India: 3 order, stiffness, optical stability and tunability are challenges that can individually be overcome but seldom achieved simultaneously. We will combine the best of both worlds’ to design and develop original molecular systems that induce a synergy between organic and inorganic building blocks. We expect developing functional materials with novel emergent properties for high-tech applications, for example in photonics and opto-electronics.
Objectives Establish novel fundamental principles for the preparation of the following functional hybrid and composite materials: Synthèse en réacteur milli/microfluidique continu de nanostructures caur/ écorce CD de différentes formes grâce à|’utilisaiton de fluides supercritiques »» composite gels from bile derivatives, acenes and nanoparticles with emissive or catalytic properties. Knowledge/Products Developed »» emissive hybrid gels using bile derivatives, The combination of a bile acid Cd precursor and acenes, salts and/or lanthanides. Develop nanoparticles in novel supercritical • are developed a variety of nanostructures could be synthesized:supercritical spherical fluid CdSe micro-/milli-flow NPs, rod-shaped, technology tetrapods • control of the growth and resulting optical and very original cubic CdSe/CdS core/shell NPs showed properties,millifluidic including devices, spherical, for elongated exceptional and tetrapodalnanoparticles (new objective). The combination of nano-rods and gelators developed very efficient luminescence and spectral purity Perform advanced characterization of composite allowed the fabrication of composite luminescent soft gels by high-resolution optical microscopy, • materials (organo- and hydrogels). • down to the single nanoparticle level. Evaluation of the potential applications, yields linearly polarized blue and red emission, as • Alignment of nano-rods alongside organic nano-fibers • liquids and gels, photonics and energy. polarization emission microscopy. including in the fields of rheologic tuning of demonstrated for the first time by single nano-rod
90 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Chemistry Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4905-1 Mar. 2013 - Aug. 2016 Kinetics and Spectroscopy Principal Collaborators in Extreme Environments: Applications to Astrophysics
Elangannan Arunan Robert Georges and Astrochemistry Indian Institute of Science University of Rennes 1 Bangalore Rennes Background Publications Radioastronomy has been extensively used for identifying the chemical species in stellar and No. of publications in SCI journals : 5 interstellar environments. Infrared spectroscopic No. of papers presented in conferences: 12 measurements are currently used to study the atmospheric composition of several transiting exoplanets characterized by surface temperatures Mobility Support comprised between 500 and 2000 K (hot Neptunes India to France: 3 and hot Jupiters). The discovery of such exoplanets France to India: Nil has revived questions about other habitable planets in our universe and also the question of life beyond earth. Fundamental understanding of interstellar dust on the one hand and dieselengine soot on the other hand, require extensive spectroscopic and kinetic data of relevant chemical species, that include radicals, molecules and weakly bound complexes. All the experimental and theoretical work planned in this project will be addressing these issues.
Objectives The objectives of the present project are centred on the acquisition of some fundamental data relevant Molecular electrostatic potential for methane molecule. Relative color to Astrophysics and Astrochemistry. code bar is shown on right A novel high temperature source designed Knowledge/Products Developed and developed earlier could be used for • spectroscopic and kinetics studies at high Effects of hypersonic shocks on the chemistry of temperatures, typically in the range of 800 – carbonaceous particles with H2 2000 K. • Emission infrared spectroscopy of methane has been To use this source for production of materials completed at very high temperatures. An accurate and kinetics and spectroscopic studies at high • model has been developed to generate synthetic spectra • temperatures. of methane up to 2000 K Shock tube studies on propargyl alcohol First recordings of out-of-equilibrium infrared pyrolysis and combustion, C atom reactions absorption spectra of hypersonic methane with the • with small hydrocarbons, FTMW investigations • ultra-sensitive CRDS technique. propargyl alcohol and its complexes will be An intriguing and unexpected ability of CH3F and CH3Cl carried out. to condense water molecules has been highlighted. Theoretical and modelling work will also be • Microwave spectrum of propargyl alcohol dimer has carried out to provide additional insights. been assigned and its structure solved Microwave • • spectrum of CH3F/H2O complex is being jointly investigated.
Annual Report | 2014-15 91 Ongoing Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 5005-1 Dec. 2013 –May. 2017 Influence of the Resorcin[4]arene Principal Collaborators on the Catalytic
Outcomes R. Ramesh David Sémeril Bharathidasan University, University of Strasbourg Tiruchirappalli UMR-CNRS 7177 Background Strasbourg The goal of catalysis is to replace certain Publications stoichiometric reactions by very selective catalytic ones, but an important secondary goal is “atom No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 economy”, to limit waste products resulting from No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 chemical reactions. Homogeneous catalysts allow reactions to take place, in most cases, at lower temperatures and pressures than those required for Mobility Support the stoichiometric reaction. Globally, a homogeneous India to France: 3 France to India: 2 demands. The selectivity of a homogeneous catalyst iscatalytic critically process dependent significantly on the ligands reduces linked energetic to the metal that is carrying out the transformation. The project aims at the discovery of new catalyst types based on the presence of a container or capsule hosting the catalytic centre
Objectives The development of pyridyl-resorcinarene derivatives for substrate and product selectivity • in cross-coupling reactions. The synthesis of capped resorinarenes for function discrimination especially for carbonyl • groups discrimination in hydrogen transfer or addition of TMSCN. Molecular structure of (1) showing the 30% probability level and the solvent The generation of metallo-capsules able to induce shape selectivity in transition Knowledge/Products Developed • metalcatalysed reactions. Phosphinated and nitrogenatedresorcin were The development of asymmetric synthetised. Catalytic applications of these cavitands are phosphoramidites based on a resorin[4]arene • undergoing. • platform and their catalytic applications. Generation of new knowledge in the areas of the synthesis of phosphinated and nitrogenatedresorcin[4] • arenes. Succeeded to prepare chiral phosphites built on a resorcinarene platform, coordination and catalytic • studies are undergoing.
92 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Chemistry Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 5005-2 Dec. 2013 - Dec. 2016 Design and Synthesis of New Principal Collaborators C1 Symmetric Biaryl-Based Ligands and Their Evaluation in
Pradeep Kumar Frédéric Leroux Asymmetric Catalytic Reactions Organic Chemistry Division CNRS UMR 7509 National Chemical Laboratory University of Strasbourg Pune Strasbourg Background Publications It is proposed to design and develop new classes of C1 symmetric ligands based on a No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 biaryl backbone and to evaluate their catalytic No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil ortho,ortho’-dibromobiaryls will be synthesized andefficiency further for functionalized various catalytic by means reactions. of regio- First, and Mobility Support chemoselective halogen-metal interconversions in India to France: 2 order to access enantiopure ligands. In the project, it France to India: 3 is planned to synthesizenovelC1-symmetric ligands such as P,P-, O,O-, N,N-, P,N-ligands and phosphate and phosphoramidate ligands. The ligands prepared in this way with or without metal complex will be screened for their catalytic activities and product enantioselectivity. The catalytic reactions to be studied involve asymmetric aldol reactions, multi- component C-C bond forming reactions, C-N bond forming reactions, asymmetric conjugate additions, asymmetric hydrogenation and hydroboration etc. Objectives To design and develop new class of C1 symmetric ligands based on a biaryl backbone and to evaluate
New biaryl-based ligand families will be prepared: its catalytic efficiency for various catalytic reactions. Preparation of ortho, ortho’-dibromobiaryls Knowledge/Products Developed Atropodiastereoselective functionalization • towards enantiopure ligands The C1 Symmetric biaryl-based phosphine catalysts with • The following potential C1-symmetric Ligands different subsitutents were prepared. will be prepared according to this approach: • Pd-catalyzed C-N cross-coupling reactions were chosen as • P, P-, O,O-, N,N-, P,N-ligands, phosphate- and model reaction to screen the catalyst. The results showed phosphoramidite ligands. • that steric bulk and the electronic properties of substituents Screening of the catalyst for their catalytic on phosphorous atom play a crucial role in governing the activities. catalytic activity of C-N cross coupling reactions. • Asymmetric aldol reaction, enantio selective The Pd-catalyzed reaction was found to be general as it works for coupling of a variety of aryl halides with both • asymmetric hydrogenation and hydroboration • primary and secondary amines. The reaction requires andConjugate C-N cross addition coupling to α, reactions β-unsaturated etc. ketones, reaction under microwave irradiatin is completed within longer time under reflux conditions while the same reported methods. 5-10 minutes. This is significant advancement over the
Annual Report | 2014-15 93 Ongoing Projects Earth and Planetary Sciences
Project No. : 4707-1 May 2012 - April 2016
Deep Structure of Principal Collaborators the Indian Continent
M. Ravi Kumar Jean-Paul Montagner National Geophysical Research Institute Institut de Physique du Globe Hyderabad Paris Background The structure and root of continents are still highly Publications debated issues in Geosciences and the example of the Indian continent is emblematic in that respect. No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 Paleo-magnetic data demonstrates that the Indian No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil continent moved northwards from 65Myr at exceptionally high speeds (18-20cm/year) and subsequently slowed down to 4-5cm/year after its Mobility Support India to France: 6 was explained by an unusually thin Indian lithosphere France to India: 6 (~100collision km) with in contradiction Asia ≈40Myr with ago. theThis thick super lithosphere mobility that commonly underlies old cratonic nuclei. xenoliths from a 65 Myr kimberlites of the Central Thermobarometric estimates on the ultramafic dataIndia and (Babu P-T estimates et al. 2009) on suggestmantle xenoliths an approximately from the 175 km thick lithosphere. Also, analysis of heat flow mW m-2, that indicate a thick lithosphere beneath southDharwar India craton (Roy revealand Mareschal, low mantle 2011). heat To flow, solve 14-20 this apparent contradiction, the lithospheric and as the nospheric structure underneath the Indian cratons and the Indian plate is to be investigated and trace its evolution through time. High shear wave velocity anomaly (bottom) in the Indian plate Objectives subducting beneath the Asia along profile AB in map (top). To investigate the causative factors that Knowledge/Products Developed determine the unique nature of the Indian • continent, with emphasis on its origin, Collation of the teleseismic data registered at all the deformational history, interactions with Asia Indian broadband seismological stations. and its tectonic evolution, in order to constrain • Determination of phase velocity maps of Rayleigh the thermal structure of the Indian shield and Love waves in the period range 35-175s for the lithosphere. • tomographic 3D-anisotropic model of the Indian evolutionary model of the Indian continent by continent.fundamental modes and the first overtones. Preliminary • synthesigingThe final objectives all seismic are results to derive and a constraints consistent Characterization of the Lithosphere Asthenosphere boundary beneath India & 3D P and S wave velocity data. • structure of India from teleseismic travel time from heat flux, petrological and paleomagnetic tomography. Deformation of the Indian plate by investigating splitting of SK(K)S waveforms from all seismic stations.
94 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Earth and Planetary Sciences Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4907-1 April 2013 - June 2016 Tropical Cyclones in Principal Collaborators the Bay of Bengal: Oceanic Response and
S. Neetu M. Lengaigne Air-Sea Interactions National Institute of Oceanography LOCEAN, UPMC-Expansion Goa Paris Background Publications While several statistical and dynamical studies No. of publications in SCI journals : 3 atmosphere coupling on TCs characteristics in No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 have already addressed the influence of ocean- much investigated in the Northern Indian Ocean. Thethe Atlantictremendous and Pacific,human this and topic socio-economical has not been Mobility Support consequences of these extreme events as well as the India to France: 4 France to India: 3 season,specificity plead of the for hydrography an in-depth ofinvestigation the Bay, with of very the strong salinity stratification in the post-monsoon characteristics in this region. The main application ofinfluence this proposal of ocean-atmosphere is to improve the coupling prediction on TCs of Tropical Cyclones intensity in the Bay of Bengal, by better accounting for air-sea interactions involved in these extreme events. The development of intensity and track statistical models that include subsurface oceanic information and hence better account for air-sea interactions under Tropical Cyclones can
Cyclones forecast. hence have obvious practical benefits for Tropical Objectives To better understand the ocean response and air-sea coupling under tropical cyclones (TCs) Knowledge/Products Developed • in the Bay of Bengal (BoB). Setting-up of models to study the TC-related mechanism Coupled Ocean-atmosphere model is built from the • To better quantify the influence of salinity NEMO ocean model, WRF atmospheric model and chlorophyll blooms and surface cooling, using stratification on the amplitude of TC-induced • OASIS3 coupler. Model successfully captures the an ocean model. climatology of tropical cyclone statistics in the Indian To understand how the cooling feedbacks on Ocean and is being used to study the air-sea coupling TCs intensity, using a regional coupled model. under the TCs. • To quantify the skill improvement brought by accounting for air-sea interactions under TCs by coupled physical-biogeochemical ocean model with • developing a TCs statistical prediction models • 0.25oDeveloped horizontal a regional resolution Indian and is Ocean being configurationutilized to study of in the BoB. the chlorophyll response to tropical cyclones forcing in the Bay of Bengal. Statistical models for tropical cyclone intensity prediction are developed. •
Annual Report | 2014-15 95 Ongoing Projects Earth and Planetary Sciences
Project No. : 5007-1 Dec. 2013 - Nov. 2016
Cenozoic Principal Collaborators Denudation of South India M. Jayananda Anicet Beauvais Centre of Earth and Space Sciences, IRD - CEREGE– Aix Marseille university University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad Marseille Background High elevation divergent continental margins Publications result from continental break-up and supplied No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 No. of papers presented in conferences: 1 passiveoffshore margins basins is crucial with to significant decipher their sedimentary post-rift topographicfluxes. Constraining evolution thethat denudationhas major implications history of for unravelling source-to-sink systems. Current Mobility Support evolution models of passive margins topography India to France: 1 predict contrasted denudation patterns across the France to India: 4 escarpments but generally fail in providing precise denudation rates histories mostly because of the lack of absolute dating of well-characterized geomorphic markers. In the tropical belt, the passive margin upwarps and adjoining platforms bear planation lateritic paleolandsurfaces.
Objectives
and climatic variations on the denudation of the • passiveTo evaluate continental the relative margin influence of Peninsular of epeirogeny India (Western Ghats) and the establishment and maintenance of its high elevation escarpment over the last 60 Ma. Mapping the relict aleolandsurfaces, and Lateritric landscape of the Western Ghats Escarpment’s piedmont.
• and lateritic paleolandscapes across the Knowledge/Products Developed • escarpment40Ar/39Ar geochronologicalin order to deciphering dating of the laterites post- Deccan denudation history of the margin from oxides and topographic analysis) on the western Ghats the coastal lowlands to the inland plateaus of • allowMultidisciplinary to evaluate researchthe post-rift (40Ar/39Ar history of dating high elevation of K-Mn South India. passive continental margins particularly source-to-sink systems in deciphering topographic evolution of these margins over geological times scale. The results have important implications on the interplay of climate and tectonics and development of drainage • patterns in southern peninsular India over the last 60 Ma. Long-term dynamics of a divergent continental margin (The Western Ghats of peninsular India): • paleolandsurfaces. Ph.D. thesis, Aix-Marseille University, January40Ar-39Ar 26 2015, geochronological pp. 286. constraints of lateritic
96 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Materials Science Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4508-1 July 2011 - June 2015 Mechanism of Principal Collaborators New Long Lasting Luminescence
Kaustubh R. S. Priolkar Aurélie Bessiere Biomarkers Goa University Laboratoire de Chimie de la Goa Matière Condensée de Paris, CNRS, UMR 7574 Paris Background Publications A biomarker, or biological marker, generally refers to a measured characteristic that may be used as an No. of publications in SCI journals : 10 indicator of some biological state or condition. In medicine, a biomarker can be a traceable substance that is introduced into an organism as a means to No. of papers presented in conferences: 9 examine organ function or other aspects of health. Mobility Support The project aims at developing novel biomarkers India to France: 4 emitting red Long-Lasting Phophorescence (LLP) for France to India: 3 in vivo small animal optical imaging. The biomarkers
minutes outside the animal body, and then injected are first excited by ultraviolet light for a couple of detectable for several hours after the injection. to the animal; where they emit red/infrared light
Objectives Development of Long Lasting Luminescence Materials • Study of Structural and Optical Properties
• mechanism • Identification of Defects participating in LLP Knowledge/Products Developed New long-lasting phosphorescence (LLP) materials,
ZnGa2O4:Cr and MgGa2O4:Cr were prepared and • characterized by several techniques like electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) and X-ray absorption
responsible for LLP property. Thefine results structure indicate (XAFS) that spectroscopy the mechanism to identify of LLP induced defects
by visible light excitation is entirely localized around Cr3+ •
(CrN2). Furthermore it was also established that ionpresence with an of Cr-O-Cranti-site linkages defect in (Cr its clusters) first cationic is detrimental neighbor for visible light induced persistent luminescence.
Annual Report | 2014-15 97 Ongoing Projects Materials Science
Project No. : 4608-1 Nov. 2011 - Oct. 2015 Developing Design Guidance for Principal Collaborators Rammed Earth
Construction B. V. V. Reddy J. C. Morel Indian Institute of Science Ecole National des Travaux Bangalore Publics de l’Etat Background Vaulx en Velin There is a need for evolving low embodied carbon Publications construction materials in order to reduce GHG emissions. Rammed earth is a low embodied No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil carbon and eco-‐‑friendly construction material, No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil which utilizes local soil resources. There is a lack of standardised testing procedures for assessing the strength of rammed earth walls. Currently available Mobility Support codes of practice on rammed earth lack proper India to France: 3 design guidance. The novelty of the project is to France to India: 1 standardise the testing procedure for evaluating the strength of rammed earth and to develop design guidance. The outcome of the project will help the professionals involved in promotion of rammed earth constructions. Objectives The project focuses on the following aspects of unstabilised rammed earth (USRE) and Cement stabilised rammed earth (CSRE): Standardising specimen size for assessing the characteristic compressive strength. Variables: • Soil grading, density and cement content.
Establishing stress strain relationships and Bottom Wedge for Shear Test elastic constants (modulus, Poisson’s ratio, etc.) • considering soil grading, density and cement content as variables. Developing a shear test device devoted to rammed Examining compressive strength of CSRE and earth wall elements is completed. The mechanical USRE with different slenderness ratios and load • parameters obtained with this test will be useful for • eccentricities, for deriving stress reduction factors. the design of rammed earth walls against horizontal Examining behaviour of rammed earth elements loads in the code of practice on rammed earth. under lateral loads in order to assess the behaviour Specimen slenderness effect on compressive strength • under seismic or wind loads. of cement stabilised rammed earth (CSRE) was The project aims to establish design methodology • examined by testing large number of wallettes for for rammed earth structures and the development height to thickness (h/t) ratio ranging from 2 to 6 in a • of code of practice on design of rammed earth. displacement controlled test rig. Demonstrated that compressive strength is not Knowledge/Products Developed sensitive to h/t ratio in the range of 2 to 6 and therefore Developing stress reduction factors accounting • the characteristic compressive strength of CSRE can be for the slenderness and eccentricity of loading assessed using cylindrical or prism specimens having • for cement stabilised rammed earth wall h/t ratio of 2. elements is partly completed.
98 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Materials Science Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4808-1 Sep. 2012 - Aug. 2016
Principal Collaborators High-Anisotropy Molecular Magnets: Synthesis and Modelling S. Ramasesha Jean-Pascal Sutter Indian Institute of Science Laboratoire de Chimie de Bangalore Toulouse, CNRS Toulouse Background Publications Single Molecule magnets (SMMs) and Single Chain Magnets (SCMs) suffer from the fundamental No. of publications in SCI journals : 5 disadvantage of magnetic properties manifesting at No. of papers presented in conferences: 5 very low-temperatures. The failure to achieve higher blocking temperatures can be traced to the rather low magnetic anisotropy. To increase it, there is a Mobility Support need to work with building blocks that have large India to France: 3 magnetic anisotropies. One possible way is to use France to India: 3 metal complexes in non-octahedral coordination such as penta- or hepta-coordination. Lack of high symmetry ensures large anisotropies. On the theoretical front, modeling SMMs and SCMshas many aspects. First and foremost is the ability to solve the spin Hamiltonian of the system. A need is felt for developing techniques to tackle such spin Hamiltonians.
Objectives Synthesis of low dimensional (discrete, 1-D) molecular magnets based on complexes with • unusual coordination to enhance magnetic anisotropy. Molecular structure for K[CrLN3O Ph(CN) ]. 2 2 Study of structure-property relations of the so synthesised magnets. Both static and dynamic Knowledge/Products Developed • magnetic properties would be studied, besides Fe(II) compounds in heptacoordinated surrounding other properties such as optical properties, have been investigated with respect to their magnetic heat capacities and related thermodynamic • anisotropy. properties. In pentagonal bipyramid environement Fe(II) was found Development of theoretical tools to model to exhibit typically a ZFS parameter D in the range of -10 magnetic systems with strong anisotropy and • to -20 cm-1. • exchange interactions for systems with assorted spins. for Fe(II) in pentagonal bipyramid surrounding. Application of these techniques to model the • Incidentally,This is the first the example supramolecular of single-ion (or lattice) magnet organisation behaviour compounds synthesized. was shown to play a key-role in that process. •
Annual Report | 2014-15 99 Ongoing Projects Environmental Science
Project No. : 4509-1 Feb. 2013 –May 2017 Controlling for Upscaling Uncertainty In Assessment of Principal Collaborators Forest Above Ground Biomass in the Western Ghats of India V. K. Dadhwal Pierre Couteron Indian Institute of Remote Sensing Botanique et bioinformatique Dehradun de l’Architecture des Plantes, Background Montpellier Reducing Carbon emissions from Deforestation Publications and Degradation (REDD) in tropical forests has been recognized under the framework of United No. of publications in SCI journals : 1 Nations Climate Change Conference(UNFCCC) as an No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil important contribution to climate change mitigation, with is considered by the National Carbon Project of India. Yet, assessing forest carbon stocks of Mobility Support India to France: 2 mastering the upscaling process leading from France to India: 3 biomassforest vegetation weighting is for a reference difficult taskindividual which trees implies up to regional scales via relevant assessments at forest Examples of the main morphologies of spatically periodic semiarid paterns stands and landscape units levels. Setting cost- from optical HSR images (top panel) and associated Fourier r-spectra effective upscaling schemes for which uncertainty (bottom as observed in the Sudan study area in Deblauwe et al. (2011). building up is explicit remains a challenging task. In the bottom row, abscissa are spaitial freqencies (cycles km2) while ordinaies feature rescoled r-spectra. Note the shift of the mode from left to right that contributes to the automatic disartmination and mapping of the morphologies (the dominant wavelength systematically decreases from Objectives spols to labyrinths and to gaps). The main objective is to assess uncertainty in evaluation of forest aboveground biomass • (AGB) at critical steps of the upscaling process
extrapolations, in order to improve national biomassfrom local and forest carbon data stock (field assessments. plots) to regional The project focuses on the forests of the Western
data from forest sample plots and reference vegetationGhats (WG) maps of India, were for available which aat wealth the beginning of field Knowledge/Products Developed of the project. The proof of concept of the main steps for upscaling
measurements into plot-level AGB estimates, use • achieved regarding the evergreen forests documented in • ofSpecific very-high tasks resolution feature (VHR) conversion remote ofsensing tree andbiomass around (AGB) the Uppangala from field permanent to region sample scales site. has been images to upscale AGB estimates from usual Retrieving forest stand biomass by canopy assessment small-sized sample plots, and contribution of from Cartosat1 images provided encouraging results. • of lesser cost and resolution to extrapolate AGB estimatesland-cover at classifications landscape scale. from satellite images satellite image processing over the Yellapur region, which • featuresPresently all carrying the main out fieldforest plots types description present inalong the withWG of Karnataka (i.e., moist deciduous and dry deciduous forests in addition to evergreen ones).
100 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Environmental Science Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4609-1 Mar. 2013 - Aug. 2016
Principal Collaborators Nutrient Sensing in Plants
Narendra Tuteja Benoit Lacombe International Centre for Genetic Biochimie et Physiologie Moléculaire Engineering & Biotechnology des Plantes New Delhi Montpellier Background Publications The basis of this project is supported by the interaction between nutrition and stress tolerance No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil mechanisms. The signal transduction pathways involvingand specifically the CIPK, the a family role of kinase nitrate interacting in such with a calcium sensor (CBLs) will be studied in Mobility Support Arabidopsis. The aim of this project is to understand India to France: 2 the signalling network that exists between these two France to India: Nil ions to increase our knowledge of salinity tolerance in plants. Objectives The aim of the project is to understand the mechanisms by which plants sense the • concentration of sodium and nitrate in the media and integrate downstream signalling pathway to adapt their developmental processes with special attention to root developmental responses. A new nitrate transporter has been
• xenopusoocyte. The NPF5.5 gene is expressed inidentified, the embryo NFP5.5 and by is functional involved expression in nitrogen in accumulation. An objective of the upcoming year is to analyse the role of this transporter in plant sodium sensitivity.
Knowledge/Products Developed
type (Columbia) under salt stress, which indicates the higher salinity sensitivity of these mutants. • CBL1Roots (calciumof CBL-9 andsensor) CIPK23 and KO ABI2 mutants (protein shows phosphatase higher cell 2Cdeath family and member)high ROS productioninvolved in asregulation compare ofwith nitrate wild transport, sensing and signalling. Moreover, in vitro • assays revealed that ABI2 interacted with and dephosphorylated CIPK23 and CBL1. ABI2 enhanced NPF6.3- dependent nitrate transport, nitrate sensing, and nitrate kinase signaling.assays and bimolecular fluorescence complementation
Arabidopsis embryo. Two independent homozygous npf5.5 KO lines exhibit reduced total nitrogen content in • theNPF5.5 embryo mRNA as compared localization to demonstratesWT plants, demonstrating that it is the an first effect NPF of transporterNPF5.5 function reported on the to embryo be expressed nitrogen in content. Ultimately, NPF5.5 gene produces two different transcripts (AtNPF5.5a and AtNPF5.5b) encoding proteins with different N-terminal ends. Both proteins are able to transport nitrate in xenopusoocytes.
Annual Report | 2014-15 101 Ongoing Projects Environmental Science
Project No. : 4709-1 Sept. 2012 - Aug. 2016
Gene Resources Principal Collaborators from Polluted Soils
M. Sudhakara Reddy Laurence Fraissinet-Tachet Thapar University Université Lyon1, CNRS UMR 5557 Patiala Lyon Background Several human activities, either industrial or Publications agricultural lead to a long-term contamination of soils by different heavy metals. The corresponding No. of publications in SCI journals : 4 lands can no longer be used for agricultural purposes No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil and must be remediated and revegetated. Although heavy metals show a general toxicity towards most living organisms, some metal tolerant/resistant Mobility Support species and ecotypes can tolerate relatively high India to France: 3 concentrations of these metals. Present project aims France to India: 3 to identify some of the selected heavy metal resistant genes which may be totally novel and may be relevant for bioremediation or used as biomarkers in soil ecosystem.
Objectives To explore, at the gene level, the functional biodiversity of soil eukaryotic microbial • communities living in stressful polluted soil cDNA size fractions and libraries preparation from soil PL. Agarose gel separation environments using a new environmental of (A) amplified cDNA without size fractionation, (B) the three different cDNA genomic approach: the functional fractions A(0.1-0.5 kb); B(0.5-1 kb) and C(1-4 kb) and (C) Sfil digested libraries PL-A, PL-B and PL-C. For each sized library, the size range of the cDNA inserts metatranscriptomic one. is similar before (B) and after (C) cloning. The isolation of genes implicated in heavy metal tolerance mechanisms will be followed • by physiological and/or biochemical Knowledge/Products Developed characterizations. A new method for constructing sized eukaryotic environmental libraries was implemented. • corresponds to new metal-resistance mechanisms. • TheseIsolated sequences 94 cDNA were sequences analysed ofalong which with thecysteine majority rich proteins-encoding environmental cDNA sequences 22 clones tolerant to Cd and 14 clones tolerant to Cobalt were isolated. • Studied the role and induction in presence of metals of several metallothioneins from two basidiomycetes • Lacaria bicolor and Pisolithus albus. Developed a new process/protocol to construct sized eukaryotic cDNA libraries using low input of total • environmental RNA from soil samples.
102 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Water Ongoing Projects
Project No. : 4500-W1 Jan. 2012 - Dec. 2015
Principal Collaborators The Kosi River Alluvial Dynamics and Associated Risks Rajiv Sinha François Métivier Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur Institut de Physique du Kanpur Globe de Paris Paris Background Publications The project site is located in north Bihar India and is looking at the Kosi river which has built the largest No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil alluvialfan in the world and is also known for raid No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil and frequent avulsion. The project is making use of physical models and cellular automatas of alluvial Mobility Support fans and braided streams and their application on India to France: 4 system in north Bihar, India. France to India: 5 the field to the study of the dynamics of the Kosifan
Objectives The objective of the project is to study the dynamics of an alluvial fan building and evolution with a special emphasis on avulsion dynamics. To understand the historical-scale dynamics of the Kosi alluvial fan through numerical • Knowledge/Products Developed Alluvial stratigraphy of the Kosimegafan. Kosimodeling river and and flume relate experiments, this to morphological Sediment Transport and Channel Morphology of the • To estimate the modern sediment flux in the • Kosi River, India. To understand the alluvial architecture and changes e.g. Channel aggradation and flooding, • 1D theoretical and experimental fan. long-term (pre-historic) avulsion history of • the Kosi river through geophysical surveys and • shallow coring.
Kosi fan using geochemical (isotopic) methods • andTo estimate to understand pre-historic the sediment forcing fluxfunctions in the (climate-tectonics coupling). To develop long-term strategy for river management in this region based on process- • response system.
Annual Report | 2014-15 103 New Projects Computational Science
Project No. : 5102-1 May 2014 - April 2017 eSynapse Based on Principal Collaborators Heterostructures of Binary Oxides Bipin Rajendran Catherine Dubourdieu Dept of Electrical Engineering Institut des Nanotechnologies de Lyon, CNRS Indian Institute of Technology- – Ecole Centrale de Lyon Bombay, Mumbai Background Reverse engineering the brain has been listed as a Publications grand challenge of this century. Neuroscientists have SCI Journal Publications : Nil engineers to mimick some of the key computational Paper Presented in Conferences : Nil featuresmade significant of biological progress neurons in providing and synapses clues forin nano-scale electronic devices. However, none of the electronic devices that have been demonstrated so Mobility Support India to France : Nil of biological systems. Most of the current efforts France to India : Nil tofar havedevelop managed large toneuro-morphic achieve the power systems efficiency are primarily based on CMOS technology. There is a pressing need to design and develop the building computational systems that can extract information fromblocks fuzzy for and biologically-inspired, noisy real- world data. energy- efficient
Objectives To develop electronic nanodevices that mimic the conductivity properties of biological • synapses at the size and energy scale of biology. To engineer new memristive devices that can be programmed to multiple stable resistive states • at switching voltages below 0.5V. To build and characterize material systems that is capable of meeting this task. • To use this material system to demonstrate Knowledge/Products Developed timing dependent plasticity in pad probable Developed pad probable memristive devices made of • individual devices and also then build small Cu/SiO /W material stack. arrays of these devices for emulating learning 2 • Memristive switching is observed below 0.3V and 100uA algorithms. switching current. • The fabricated device exhibits half-integer quantum conductance states. • Quantized behaviour can be explained based on sub-
• SiO2 dielectric. band transport in Cu nano-filaments formed within the Developed HfO2-CVD/ALD/MBE growth and developed pad probable memristive devices made of TiN/HfO2/ • TiN material stack.
104 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences New Projects
Project No. : 5103-1 May 2014 - April 2017 The Immuno-Psychiatry in South India Principal Collaborators Study : Immunogenetic and Immuno-phenotype Characterization
Vir Singh Negi Ryad Tamouza of Major Psychoses Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate INSERM U1160, IUH/IFR 105, Medical Education and Research, Saint Louis Hospital. Paris-Diderot (JIPMER), Puducherry (P7), University of Paris Background Publications Though there is evidence for the presence of an immunological dysfunction in French patients with SCI Journal Publications : Nil psychotic disorders, the status is unknown in Indian Paper Presented in Conferences : Nil patients. Owing to the differences in the genetic make-up and the environmental conditions, the disease in the Indians patients could be different Mobility Support from the Caucasians. The current study will be useful India to France : 2 France to India : Nil and immunophenotype differences in Sz and BD. Thisin delineating transpopulational the ethnicity-specific study is aimedimmunogenetic to gain insights into the immune basis of psychotic disorders (schizophrenia and bipolar disorder).
Objectives
polymorphisms in the MHC gene cluster • onTo determinedisease susceptibility/ the influence resistance of genetic to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. To characterize the immunophenotype of
• schizophrenia and bipolar disorder by profiling subpopulations.serum inflammatory proteins, autoantibodies, cytokines and by profiling circulating lymphocyte Knowledge/Products Developed Endogenous Retroviruses (HERV-W) in • schizophreniaTo study the influence and bipolar of ‘W’ disorder family to of Humanstratify Class II HLA DR DQ Typing has been carried out for 145 patients and analyse the clinical phenotype of patients (85 SZ, 60 BD) and 20 Super Normal Controls and 148 patients based on their HERV-W status. • Three SNPs in the non-classical HLA-G and 2 polymorphisms in To determine the role of infectious cofactors (90 SZ, 58 BD) and 18 Super Normal Controls respectively. (potential triggers of the HERV-W) on disease • 83 BD) and 110 Super Normal Controls. • etiology, expression and response to treatment. the HLA-E genes have been profiled in 219 patients (136 SZ and To study the innate immune related Toll Like Receptor (TLR) gene polymorphisms in • StudyRevealed of Antinuclear significant trendsantibodies towards (ANA) associations has been carried with HLA-Gout in • Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder and their 270SNPs cases and significantlyand 131 controls. increased Further, sHLA-G other levels antibodies in BD are also • being characterized. influence on disease susceptibility and outcome.
• chromatographyPolyclonal IgG antibodies and examined were for purified catalytic from functions, Schizophrenia if any, to understand(n=18) and autoimmunity Bipolar Disorder pattern (n=11) using CIM-Histidine
Annual Report | 2014-15 105 New Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 5103-2 April 2014 - April 2017
Olfactory Modulation Principal Collaborators of Insect Flight (OMIF)
Gaiti Hasan Jean-Francois Ferveur National Centre for Biological Sciences Centre des Sciences du Goût et de Bangalore l’Alimentation, UMR, CNRS 6265 Background INRA 1324, Dijon Publications sensory inputs including visual and chemosensory. SuchInsect inputs flight allow requires the insect the integrationto identify suitable of multiple sites SCI Journal Publications : Nil of food sources, as well as mates and subsequently Paper Presented in Conferences : Nil sites for egg-laying. An understanding of the neural circuits underlying such decision making is necessary for developing ecologically friendly Mobility Support methods for preventing destruction of economically India to France : Nil important crops by relevant insect pests. The aims of France to India : Nil this project are to identify neurons which integrate chemosensory information with flight. Objectives To draw an anatomo-functional map of the neural circuitry required for olfactory • Drosophila melanogaster. Tomodulation understand of how flight olfactory in the cues model perceived species by wing sensory organs (olfactory and • mechanosensory). To determine the possible existence of sex Wind tunnel with cameras for tracking olfactory modulated flight trajec- • tories at NCBS, Bangalore specific dimorphism in flight circuitry. Knowledge/Products Developed Transformation of wing chemosensors to mechanosensors
• olfactoryleads to a perception50% decrease to pheromones. in flight take-off. • Duration of flight is faster in flies with targeted loss of various conditions has been standardized. • NeuronsAn automated that affect system initiation for odor and tracking duration by of flies tethered under
• and the central brain regions. Octopamineflight have been receptor identified in central both brain in the neurons ventral has ganglion been
• durations. identified as required for maintenance of longer flight
106 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences New Projects
Project No. : 5103-3 April 2014 - April 2017 Genome-scale Analysis of Principal Collaborators Differential Propensities of Different Chromosomal Domains for
Aswin Seshasayee Marco Cosentino Lagomarsino National Centre for Biological Sciences UMR 7238 CNRS, University Pierre and Horizontal Gene Insertion in E. Coli Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Marie Curie, Paris Bangalore Background Publications The enormous genetic diversity of many bacterial species owes much to horizontal gene acquisition SCI Journal Publications : Nil from non-parental sources. These acquired DNA Paper Presented in Conferences : Nil allow the bacterium to immediately explore new niches and phenotypes, including virulence. Besides, these also impose additional selective pressures Mobility Support leading to further gene acquisitions, or loss or India to France : Nil France to India : Nil rewire the metabolic and the regulatory circuitry of themodification cell. Therefore, of core horizontally genes. These acquired acquisitions genes alsoare regulated, not least at the level of gene expression. The project investigates this at various levels.
Objectives
chromosomal loci and structural elements • ofDescription the chromosome of the to propensities be more receptive of specific to horizontal gene integration, using a combination of comparative genomics and transposon mutagenesis.
• populationThe impact variability of specific thereof. chromosomal contexts Theoretical model for horizontal gene exchange Developmentidentified in part of 1novel on gene methods expression applying levels deep and sequencing data towards achieving these Knowledge/Products Developed • objectives, and the establishment of a publicly Discovery of a large chromosomal rearrangement – available web-server presenting our data and duplication of 40% of the chromosome centred around analysis. • the origin – which suppresses the growth defect of de- silencing horizontally-acquired genes encoded around the terminus of replication.
Annual Report | 2014-15 107 New Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 5103-4 June 2014 - May 2017 Decipher the Symbiotic Principal Collaborators Programme in
Maitrayee Das Gupta Fabienne Cartieaux Tropical Legumes University of Calcutta Laboratoire des Symbioses Tropicales& Kolkata Méditerranéennes (IRD) Background Montpellier Understanding the ‘molecular code’ associated with Publications root nodule symbiosis (RNS) between plants and No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil the prospects for extending symbiosis beyond No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil currentnitrogen-fixing host range bacteria to reduce is necessary or eliminate for evaluating the broad usage of fertilizers in our agricultural practices. To address this question the temperate legumes that Mobility Support have been retained as study models have unraveled India to France : 2 a sophisticated infection process. However an France to India : Nil alternative mode of infection has been described in tropical and Mediterranean legumes including Arachishypogaea and Aeschynomeneevenia. Those aeschynomeneae legumes share an intercellular infection pathway considered to be the ancient mode of invasion of plant tissues and thus expected to have a relatively simple molecular code for RNS. involved in early global responses associated with inceptionThis project of symbiosis aims at in profiling A. hypogaea the transcriptomeand A. evenia.
Objectives Characterization of Arachishypogaea symbiotic
• sequencing. Bioinformaticstranscriptome usinganalysis Illumina of transcriptomic flow cellrun data of Knowledge/Products Developed sets generated from Arachishypogaea and • Aeschynomeneaeevenia. The Arachishypogaea transcriptome project was launched with MGX Genomix France on September • 2014. molecular factors implicated in such tropical • symbioses.Identification of common and / or divergent The progress of symbiosis in Arachis is divided into 5 different stages. RNA prepared from these stages • is being sequenced by MGX, France, the analysis and with the early events like recognition/ signaling output is awaited. • andIdentification endocytosis of of candidatethe microsymbiont. genes associated Functional analysis of candidate genes via RNA indicating this legume to support Nod independent interference, Analysis of their spatiotemporal • nodulation.A Nod deficient Bradyrhizobia BTAi1 nodulatesArachis • expression pattern by qRT-PCR promoter/ reporter gene fusion. A broad host range Bradyrhizobia ORS285 fails to • indicates presence of negative T3SS effectors in ORS285. nodulateArachis. Normal nodulation by ORS 285ΔTTSS
108 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences New Projects
Project No. : 5203-1 March 2015 - March 2017
Principal Collaborators Molecular study of RH gene variants in Indians Swati S. Kulkarni Yann Fichou National Institute of Inserm UMR1078 Immunohaematology EtablissementFrançais du Sang – Région Mumbai Bretagne, Brest Background Publications Among the 35 human blood groups, the Rh system is the most complex and polymorphic. It is linked No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil to the two highly homologous RHD and RHCE No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil genes including numerous variants that encode
expressed in red blood cells. Rh status of donors and Mobility Support patientshighly immunogenic is then a major surface concern antigens of Public specifically Health, India to France : Nil especially in transfusion and obstetrical medicine. France to India : Nil So far, little is known about the RH genetics in the heterogeneous Indian population. This project aims to identify and characterize the RH gene variants in Indians by combining the technical
Institute of Immuno Haematology, Mumbai and the Bloodand scientific Group Molecular expertise Genetics and skills Laboratory of the National (Brest, France) in blood group phenotyping and genotyping,
study, valuable data will help Indian physicians to guiderespectively. transfusion Beyond medicine the scientific practice interestand to manage of this the allo-immunization risk in pregnant women.
Objectives By studying the RH gene variants in the Indian population, this project aims: • »» To provide a molecular pattern of distribution Knowledge/Products Developed of both the RHD and RHCE gene variants in The project has started recently. the Indian population. »» • variants/clusters. »» To delineatedefine potential correlation novel between population-specific phenotypes and genotypes by functional studies.
Annual Report | 2014-15 109 New Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 5203-2 March 2015 - Feb. 2018 Insights on Protein Structural and Principal Collaborators Evolutionary
Narayanaswamy Srinivasan Alexandre G. de Brevern Dynamics Molecular Biophysics Unit INSERM UMR-S 665, DSIMB Indian Institute of Science, Univ Paris Diderot, Paris. Bangalore Background Life sciences and computational sciences have Publications emerged as an invaluable tool to comprehend complex biological functions and their implications. No. of publications in SCI journals : 3 Use of 3D protein structures provides insights into No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil biological functions. Protein structures are not rigid and important regions. Direct interactions between Mobility Support proteinsmacromolecules. and one They of areits partners dynamic withcan provide flexible India to France : Nil important changes not at the direct interaction France to India : Nil sites but far away in the proteins, it is a long-range interaction effect. Allosteric effects on protein functions are observed for a long time, but not using structural bioinformatics approaches. This research has so important implications for fundamental biological researches, to applied drug design or implications in multiple diseases.
Objectives Focus on an important question in
• protein complexes which could elicit allostery, computational biology field: transient protein- complex to tackle. Towhich analyse by definition pertinent are characterized reversible and complexes therefore of protein kinases using recognized state of the Knowledge/Products Developed • art approaches. From these analyses, prediction approaches will be performed. The project has started recently. An important point of this project is the use • of innovative description of protein structures • with a recognised structural alphabet, namely the Protein Blocks.
110 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences New Projects
Project No. : 5203-3 Mar. 2015 - Feb. 2018 Host-Virus Interactions Principal Collaborators and Antibody Therapy for Japanese
Manjula Kalia Sébastien Lacroix-Desmazes Translational Health Science & INSERM UMR S 1138 Encephalitis Technology Institute Centre de recherche des Cordeliers, Gurgaon Paris Background Publications The central theme of the project concerns the molecular and biochemical dissection of the immune No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil evasion mechanism of Japanese encephalitis No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil virus (JEV) and investigation of novel therapeutic approaches for Japanese encephalitis. The precise nature of the interactions of JEV with cells of the Mobility Support innate and adaptive compartments of the host India to France : Nil immune system remains to be elucidated, for the France to India : Nil development of promising therapeutic measures and
The cellular PRRs and critical PAMPs of virus involved new prophylactic candidates with improved efficacy.
ofin inpathogenesis vitro generated will JEV-reactivebe identified. human In the monoclonal scenario of antibodynon-existing will JE provide specific the therapy, promising the passivenovel approach therapy candidate with the potential to translate into pre- clinical trials in JE.
Strategy for Objectives JEV-Virus like particle (VLP) To understand the mechanism of JEV-host production interaction, immune evasion, and virus • recognition receptors (PRRs) in dendritic cells andpersistence, CD4+ T withlymphocytes identification and viral of envelope pattern protein(s) responsible for binding to the PRRs Knowledge/Products Developed and mediating viral internalization. The project has started recently. To decipher the role of regulatory T cells in JEV pathogenesis, both in vitro and in vivo. • • To demonstrate the application of CCR4 antagonist in therapy and/or as adjuvant in new • vaccine preparations. To explore the therapeutic potential of in vitro generated JEV-reactive human monoclonal • antibodies in Japanese encephalitis in a mouse model of disease.
Annual Report | 2014-15 111 New Projects Life and Health Sciences
Project No. : 5203-4 March 2015 - March 2018 Novel Inhibitors of NHEJ Against Principal Collaborators Resistant Tumour
Sathees C. Raghavan Charbonnier Jean-Baptiste Cells Indian Institute of Science CEA, Institute of Biology and Bangalore Biotechnologies of Saclay Background The emergence of tumour cells resistant to anti- Publications cancer drugs and irradiation remains the frequent cause of failure of long-term cancer therapies. Non- No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil Homologous End-Joining (NHEJ) repair pathway No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil plays a critical role in these resistance mechanisms. A major challenge is now to characterize several inhibitors of the NHEJ pathway to increase the Mobility Support India to France : Nil spectrum of resistant tumors. France to India : Nil efficacy of the anti-cancer treatments against a large
Objectives
been characterized, in particular in Bangalore • (Srivastava,The first inhibitors 2012, Cell). of theIn this NHEJ CEFIPRA pathway project, have the French and Indian Partners will join their highly complementary approaches to identify new inhibitors against two targets: the Artemis nuclease, the ligation complex Ligase4-XRCC4- Cernunnos and the recognition complex Ku70/ Crystals of Ku70/Ku80 heterodimer complexed with a DNA substrate and a potential inhibitor of the NHEJ pathway bound to the heterodimer. Ku80. The French Partner will realize protein Crystals are rod shape with maximum size 300µm x 40µm x 40µm. production, high throughput small molecules (Nemoz et al in preparation) screenings, and structural biology (Ropars, 2011, PNAS). The Indian Partner will realize Knowledge/Products Developed molecular modelling, functional assays at the The project has started recently. molecular, cellular and animal levels. •
112 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Life and Health Sciences New Projects
Project No. : 5203-5 Mar. 2015 - Feb. 2018 Characterisation of Factors Principal Collaborators that Determine the Balance Between Genomic Integrity and
D. Narasimha Rao J. Pablo Radicella Division of Biology, Indian Institute of Institute of Cellular and Molecular Diversity in Helicobacter pylori Science, Bangalore Radiobiology, CEA, Fontenay aux Roses Background Publications Helicobacter pylori is a major bacterial human pathogen. It colonises 50% of the human No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil population- at the origin of a panoply of pathologies No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil including gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric cancer and lymphomas. High level of genetic recombination provides H. pylori the ability to diversify, colonize, Mobility Support adapt, evade host immune responses and acquire India to France : Nil antibiotic resistances. The spreading of antibiotic France to India : Nil resistance is becoming a major public health threat. In H. pylori the main pathway for horizontal gene transfer and therefore the propagation of antibiotic resistances or escape from the immune system relies on the transformation process. Understanding the cellular pathways of transformation, recombination and its barriers becomes necessary to potentially improve the therapeutic handling of the infection.
Objectives The general objective of this project that started in 2015 is to gain understanding of the molecular • mechanism allowing horizontal gene transfer Direct visualization of the internalisation of exogenous DNA during Helicobacter pylori transformation through transformation in the human pathogen Helicobacter pylori three years are: »» Functional characterization. The specific aims of forH. the pylori next Knowledge/Products Developed proteins (DprA, RecA and MutS2) involved in Direct visualization of the internalisation of exogenous important stages of natural transformation DNA during Helicobacter pylori transformation. In and recombination pathways. • order to study the transformation process in this »» To study the role of H. pylori R-M systems in pathogen system has been set up to follow the fate of controlling genetic exchange. the transforming DNA in living cells applying time-lapse »» Interaction studies between proteins of confocal microscopy. natural transformation, recombination and The different enzymatic functions of MutS2 are restriction. »» Cellular localization studies with R-M • transformation through initial genetic studies. system and proteins involved in natural dissected, a protein was identified as a suppressor of transformation and recombination.
Annual Report | 2014-15 113 New Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 5004-1 Jan. 2015 - Dec. 2017 Advanced Computational Models to Facilitate Principal Collaborators Solar Activity and Space
Dibyendu Nandi LaurèneJouve Weather Predictions Center of Excellence in Space IRAP, Observatoire Midi-Pyrénées/Université Sciences India and Department of Paul Sabatier, Toulouse Physical Sciences Background IISER, Kolkata Space weather disrupts satellite operations, Publications telecommunications, GPS navigational networks No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil Studyofand air-traffic the Sun-Earth-System on polar routes. isSlow-long a rapidly term emerging solar multidisciplinaryactivity variation alsoscience, influences in which, the aglobal fundamental climate. challenge is to understand the origin of solar Mobility Support India to France : Nil essential for mitigating the adverse impacts of space France to India : Nil weathermagnetic on fields our technologies. and forecast it. This knowledge is
Objectives To develop computational models of the Sun’s
• evolution which will aid in forecasting future solarmagnetic activity field and production,assessing its emergenceimpact on space and environmental conditions and technologies that are subject to space weather.
Knowledge/Products Developed The project has started recently.
•
114 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics New Projects
Project No. : 5104-1 April 2014 - March 2017 Magnetic Principal Collaborators Nanoparticles for Hyperthermia and
Varsha Banerjee Julian Carrey Indian Institute of Technology- Delhi Laboratoire de Physique et Chimie des Spintronics New Delhi Nano-Objets, INSA Toulouse Background Publications Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) synthesized by No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil as nanoelectronics, catalysis, biomedicine, etc. No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil Thechemistry Indian have partner applications has developed in diverse theoretical fields suchand computational tools to understand the role played by interactions and system parameters on the non- Mobility Support equilibrium properties of aggregates and suspensions India to France : 2 of MNPs. The French partner has developed an France to India : Nil expertise in the magnetic and magnetotransport measurements on assemblies of MNPs. During their collaboration, the two groups will converge owards the elaboration, measurements and simulations of model systems on which joint experimental and theoretical studies will be carried out. Objectives To develop theoretical frameworks to study equilibrium and non-equilibrium properties of • assemblies of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in the form of suspensions, powders, gels and 2D and 3D arrays within the two-level Knowledge/Products Developed approximation. (a) Preparation and characterisation of Fe@SiO2 MNPs for use as a model To develop numerical techniques especially system in hyperthermia. (b) Synthesis of FeCo MNPs and Au or Pt NPs linked suited to handle long-range dipolar interactions • with spin crossover compounds for spintronics. (c) Heating power and high- • ubiquitous in MNP assemblies. frequency hysteresis loop measurements on the Fe@SiO2 system. experimental and theoretical comparisons for hysteresis loops and area scaling laws for assemblies of MNPs Evaluations • Development of mean field theory and formulation for calculation of • hyperthermiaTo identify and model spintronics. systems for efficient with parameters corresponding to Fe3O4 MNPs prepared in most laboratories working on hyperthermia. To study very precisely the structural properties (a) Preliminary simulations incorporating dipolar interactions to obtain of the model systems using electron microscopy. morphologies and local heat dissipation in spherical beads (or lysosomes) • • To study experimentally the magnetic system parameters on non-local heat dissipation. properties of (i) model system A using standard (a)filled Development with Fe3O 4of MNPs.e-beam (b) lithography Systematic process study to to understand elaborate thenanoscale role of • magnetometry, high-frequency hysteresis loops electrodes for transport measurements (b) Integration of hybrid nanoparticles and temperature measurements and (ii) model • composed of Pt or Au combined with magnetic spin-crossover molecules. (c) system B using standard magnetometry and Development of protocols to integrate magnetic particles into the devices. transport. (a) Development of Ewald summation technique to handle dipolar interactions To achieve a convergence between the in MC simulations for assemblies and arrays of MNPs. Several types of • nanoparticles have been developed for this project, as well as processes for experimental results and the theoretical results. their integration into devices. Also, an original way to exchange the ligands • surrounding the particles once they are onto the device has been developed.
Annual Report | 2014-15 115 New Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 5104-2 May 2014 - April 2017 Self-similar Optical Patterns in Non-linear Principal Collaborators Media
K. Porsezian Ph. Grelu Pondicherry University Univ. Bourgogne Puducherry UMR CNRS 6303, Dijon Background Self-similarity is one of the fundamental dynamics Publications natural environment. Recently, the implementation No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil ofobserved this scaling in many concept scientific into fields nonlinear as well photonics as in the No. of papers presented in conferences: 4 has produced a remarkable development among key subjects. Knowing the importance of Photonics in general for the development of our modern Mobility Support societies, as highlighted by the UNESCO 2015 India to France : 1 International Year of Light, is important to sustain France to India : 1 fundamental research that could lead to disruptive optical technology. One marked trend consists reliable optical devices either for communication in the development of compact, efficient and developments-- constitutes a major workhorse of thisor monitoring.development, The so that optical related fiber fundamental – in all but its realistic investigations remain of high interest.
Objectives Combining the theoretical and experimental expertise of both Indian and French groups to • develop innovative applications of self-similar scaling laws that can be applied to nonlinear Illustration of the diversity of multi-pulse dynamics that can be generated from a single fiber laser optics and laser dynamics with a view to unit, when the cavity parameters are altered. A goal of our project is to extend the scaling of these regimes, for instance to access to high-repetition rate laser pulse emission, through different developing advanced pulsed source concepts physical mechanisms at play in dissipative nonlinear systems. with unprecedented features. The collaboration will set forward semi-analytical and numerical Knowledge/Products Developed tools as well as experiments. One major goal is the share of knowledge of special properties are proposed to study the role between partners, including the possibility • ofAs2S3 birefringence chalcogenide in all-optical photonic-crystal coupling, fiberbased couplers on the • to transfer some experimental expertise in projection operator method. Modulation instability has been investigated in complex from France to India, through postdoctoral optical media. work.nonlinear fiber optics and fiber laser dynamics • Rogue wave solutions of complex optical systems have been constructed and theory explaining the occurrence • of rogue wave has been proposed. Soliton solutions with nonlinear chirping have been constructed to include higher-order dispersion and • nonlinear effects. Impact of temperature on supercontinuum generation
• in water-filled PCF has been numerically investigated. 116 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics New Projects
Project No. : 5204-1 Feb. 2015 - Jan. 2018 Monomode and Principal Collaborators Multimode Phase Sensitive Amplification
Rupamanjari Ghosh Fabien Bretenaker Shiv Nadar University CNRS Laboratoire Aimé Cotton and Light Storage Greater Noida, UP Orsay Background Publications The project is in the broad area of nonlinear and quantum optics. Potential applications of microwave No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil photonics links in radio frequency (RF) systems No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil require generation of very stable RF oscillators, to amplify the RF signal and to be able to control the signal group velocities, without degrading the signal- Mobility Support to-noise ratio. The key idea in this project is phase- India to France : 2 France to India : Nil sensitive amplification, which will be explored for realizing a very low noise amplifier based on highly temperature.nonlinear fibers This and system also is for also a morevery promising fundamental for lightwork storage. on multimode amplification in a gas cell at room
Objectives To study and lower or even remove the coupling of the intensity and phase noises in dual- • frequency solid lasers.
Set up for phase sensitive amplification in metastable helium. The helium cell is in the -metal cylindrical shielding. The amplification is already • microwaveTo conceive signalsnoiseless and amplifiers the design using of lownonlinear noise visible. optoelectronicsoptical fibers for oscillators. application to the transport of
Knowledge/Products Developed metastable helium. The project has started recently.. • To study phase sensitive amplification in and tripod systems in helium. • • To demonstrate and study light storage using Λ
Annual Report | 2014-15 117 New Projects Pure and Applied Physics
Project No. : 5204-2 March 2015 - March 2018 Radio Properties of Clusters and Galaxy Principal Collaborators Lenses
Joydeep Bagchi Bruno Guiderdoni Inter University Centre for Astronomy Centre de RechercheAstrophysique and Astrophysics de Lyon Pune Background Saint Genis Laval One of the most fundamental problems in Publications astrophysics concerns the processes by which large scale structuressuch as clusters and Mpc-scaled No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil galaxies formed and evolved from the extremely No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil smooth universe. Radio observations provide a key solution to this problem via probing the morphology, mass distribution, star formation rates and structure Mobility Support formation from sub-galaxy to cluster scales. In this India to France : Nil project we aim to provide the most complete set France to India : Nil of radio data (ALMA, GMRT and IRAM) on clusters and galaxies (within cluster environment) lying at redshift range 0< z < 5 (epoch of star formation).
Objectives Carrying out a radio survey combined with multi wavelength study to probe the global • properties of the lensing clusters and galaxies. Characterising the radio properties (spectral and morphological) of lensing cluster as a • Top Image: GMRT 610 MHz contours overlaid on SDSS colour whole and independent radio emitting galaxies image to highlight the cluster environment. within the cluster environment, to address open Bottom Image: GMRT 610 MHz colour image (5” resolution; rms astrophysical problems like cluster formation of about 60 microJy) of Giant radio galax. This image clearly and evolution, impact of dense environment on shows highly collimated jets getting obstructed on the western side galaxies within cluster medium, use clusters of producing hotspot with a kink. Dabhade et al. 2015 galaxies as a window on fundamental physics i.e. interaction of dark matter or is it collisionless Knowledge/Products Developed and its effect on growth and evolution ofclusters etc. investigation viz., (i) diffuse radio emission (halos) in • clustersTwo classes (0.2 < z of< 1) sources that can be have used beento probe identified intergalactic for
in the Universe as well as distant faint galaxies having radiogas, magnetic counterparts fields and(1 < large z < scale5) observed structure via formation lensing technique, probing the distant universe and Shown to be undergoing a vigorous episode of star formation plus (ii) independent galaxies within cluster • environment hosting large-scale jets. Detected non- thermal diffuse radio emission from the intra cluster gas in couple of lensing. • Clusters and radio galaxies hosting giant Mpc-scaled jets. •
118 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Physics New Projects
Project No. : 5204-3 March 2015 - March 2018 Modelling Plasma Principal Collaborators Instabilities and Transport in a Hall
Hitendra K. Malik Fabrice Doveil Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi UMR CNRS 7345 – Aix-Marseille Thruster New Delhi UniversitéFaculté des Sciences Campus Saint-Jérôme Background Publications Hall Effect Thruster is a plasma propulsion devicereciognised for its suitability for station No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil keeping, orbit control and interplanetary missions. No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil The main aim of research on this subject is to improve the performance and lifetime of Hall Thrusters, as well as the development of thrusters Mobility Support of sizes and power different from those presently India to France : Nil working. Based on the analytical expressions for the France to India : Nil growth of instabilities, the real scenario of plasma stability, regimes of plasma that are most affected by the instabilities could be discussed. If it is possible to write a quasi-linear theory for electron transport,
simulations of the thruster, and then make it easier tothe optimize way will existing be paved thrusters to build efficient or to design and predictivenew ones.
Objectives To develop analytical models and carry out simulations of different instabilities likely to be • responsible for anomalous electron transport
shall give a quantitative estimate of the electrons Cross- section view of a cylindrical Hall thruster. Electrons are magnetized and are confined by a combination of the magnetic and through the magnetic field of Hall thrusters and electric fields. Segmented anode is shown. using a Hamiltonian formalism. flux generated by each of those instabilities Knowledge/Products Developed transport itself that will make it possible to This project has started recently. • buildfirst steppredictive toward simulations a modelling of ofHall the thrusters electron (not available presently). •
Annual Report | 2014-15 119 New Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 5105-1 April 2014 - March 2017 Glycochemical Studies of Principal Collaborators Mycobacterial
Srinivas Hotha Thierry Benvegnu Arabinomycolate Indian Institute of Science Education EcoleNationaleSupérieure de and Research Pune, Pune Chimie de Rennes – UMR CNRS Background 6226 , Rennes Cell surface of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) Publications has characteristic furanosyl arabinose & galactose, cyclopropanated lipids. Ethambutol, a drug No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil used for the treatment of TB, found to arrest the No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil currently under investigation as targets for drug discovery.arabinan biosynthesis; Presence of xenobiotic,furanosyl gGlyco-lipids of MTb forms are Mobility Support of arabinose, galactose and cyclopropanes in the India to France : Nil lipids raises a few questions: (i) why MTb chose France to India : Nil furanoses over pyranoses; (ii) why MTb chose Araf arabinolipidover other pentoses; of MTb and(iii) whyits survival MTb cell under wall extremehas rare conditions?cyclopropanes; This (iv) proposal Is there is any going relation to betweenaddress them through physicochemical studies on a library of arabinofuranosyl lipids exploiting modern spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Results from this study might pave way to the design of newer drugs that can target glycolipids.
Objectives This project comprises of physicochemical studies on a library of arabinofuranosyl lipids for: Development of chemistry for the synthesis of arabinolipids. • Chemoenzymatic synthesis of glycolipids. Knowledge/Products Developed Synthesis of glycolipids library. Development of chemistry for the synthesis of • Solvation dynamics by THz spectroscopy. arabinolipids • • Physico-chemical studies on glycolipids. Chemoenzymatic synthesis of glycolipids • Synthesis of glycolipids library • • Solvation dynamics by THz spectroscopy • Physico-chemical studies on glycolipids • •
120 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Chemistry New Projects
Project No. : 5105-2 June 2014 - May 2017 Molybdenum Containing Principal Collaborators Enzymes: Bioinspired
Peptidic Catalysts for CO2
Surajit Sinha Marius Réglier Reduction Indian Association for the Institut des Sciences Moléculaire de Cultivation of Science, Kolkata Marseille, Aix Marseille Université Marseille Background Publications In a context of the limitation of fossil fuels, it is imperative to develop research aimed at enhancing No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil CO2. One of the most promising approaches is to No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil transform it in to reduced carbon forms that can
generate hydrocarbons. CO2 being a very stable
Mobility Support enzymes present in microorganisms are capable India to France : Nil molecule is chemically difficult to activate. However, of effectively reducing CO2 into formate. These France to India : Nil enzymes, formate dehydrogenases, have a Mo active site where the catalyticreactiontakes place. Inspired by these enzymes, the purpose of this projects to prepare peptidobiomimetic/bioinspired Mo complexes in order to study and to decipher the molecular factors responsible for this remarkable reactivity to develop new biocatalysts Mo, robust
2.
andObjectives efficient for the reduction of CO Formate dehydrogenases (Fdh) perform the
reversible transformation of CO2 to formate. • Inspired by the Fdh active site, the objective is to develop a new class of catalysts capable of
achieving the CO2 reduction in soft conditions, whichis a keystep in the generation of biofuels in a green chemistryapproach. Preparation of air sensitive molybdenum complex in a glove box, Marseille, September 2015. From the left to the right: HARDRE Renaud (French Co-PI),DEBOJYOTI Misra (Indian Ph.D. student) and OHEIX Emmanuel (French post-doc).
Knowledge/Products Developed Synthesis of 2-amino-3-(3, 4-dimercaptophenyl) propanoic acid. • Synthesis of Fmoc-protected vinylalanine, will be used for cross coupling reaction to make peptide-based • catalyst. Synthesis of 3-allylbenzene-1,2-dithiol, will be used for cross coupling reaction on peptide backbone • Synthesis of molybdenum complexes First electrocatalytic tests in sulfoxyde and CO reduction • 2 • Annual Report | 2014-15 121 New Projects Pure and Applied Chemistry
Project No. : 5105-3 May 2014 - April 2017 Phosphorus-supported multisite coordinating ligands for the assembly of polynuclearheterometallic (3d- Principal Collaborators 4f) and homonuclear (3d) ensembles: Towards a new generation of molecular magnetic materials Vadapalli Chandrasekhar Hab. Rodolphe Clérac National Institute of Science Education Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, and Research, Bhubaneswar Research team for “Molecular Background Materials & Magnetism” (M3), Pessac The number of polymetallic cages reported increases Publications every year and to date, approximately more than hundred SMMs have been reported - yet the barrier No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil height for the reversal of magnetisation has not No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil
of a new generation of single molecule magnets withbeen enhanced significantly properties raised. is Therefore still a major the challenge. synthesis Mobility Support This project aims at synthesizing new generation India to France : Nil magnetic materials based on polynuclear homo- (3d) France to India : Nil and heterometallic (3d-4f) complexes. Objectives Design and assembly of novel phosphorus-supported multi-site coordinating multi-compartmental ligands. • Syntheses and structural characterization of polynuclear homo- (3d) and hetero-metallic (3d-4f) • complexes with an emphasis on varying the transition metalions (number of d electrons and their nature,
and 7-coordinate, regular vs. distorted geometry), the lanthanidet2g vs eg; magnetic ions and anisotropy),the ligands. their geometry (5, 6 To study the possible SMM properties of the isolated 3d-4f hetero-metalli ccomplexes and to gain an • understanding of the structural factors in terms of their impact on magnetic behavior. To utilize discrete magnetic building blocks for the construction of novel SCMs or magnets and to study their magnetic behavior.
•Knowledge/Products Developed
Multi-site coordination ligand [{N3P3(O-C5H4N-3)6}2 (L) has been shown to form 1D- and 2D-coordination polymers as well as a molecular dinuclear metallamacrocycle with the presence of a signature 20-membered macrocyclic motif • comprising of two metal centers and a pair of cyclophosphazene ligands.
The 1D-coordination polymers[{N3P3(O-C5H4N-3)6}2{Zn(H2O)3(NO3)}2{Zn(H2O)2(NO3)2}]n[NO3]2n 2 3OH (1) and [{N3P3(O-C5H4N-3)6}2{ Zn(H2O)3(NO3)}2{Cu(NO3)2}]n [NO3]2n 2 3CN (2) were obtained in a solution reaction • •4nH O•nCH involving the ligand L and the hydrated metal nitrate salts (Cu(NO3)2.3H2O or Zn(NO3)2.6H2O). •4nH O•nCH Depending on the reaction conditions, the 2D-coordination polymer [{N3P3(O-C5H4N-3)6}2(NO3 3)-Cd(NO3)2 (NO3)Cd(NO3)}]n.2nCH3 2O and the molecular macrocycle [{N3P3(O-C5H4N-3)6 }{Cd(H2O)3NO3)}2][NO3]2 2O • were isolated. )Cd-(μ-(NO (μ- OH∙3nH .9H Using acyclic nitrogenous multicompartmental ligand and lanthanide nitrate (Ln(NO3)3.6H2
• complexes. These are being investigated for their magnetic properties. O; Ln = Dy, Tb) in presence of a coligands (pivale, trifluoroacetylacetonate), prepared a series of 1D-coordination polymers containing dinuclear 4f
122 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Pure and Applied Chemistry New Projects
Project No. : 5105-4 July 2014 - June 2017 sp3 C-H Bond Activation with Principal Collaborators Ruthenium(II) Catalysts: Application to the Synthesis of Aliphatic
G. V. M. Sharma Christian Bruneau CSIR-Indian Institute of University of Rennes 1 N-Heterocyclic Natural Products Chemical Technology UMR 6226: Institut des Sciences Hyderabad Chimiques de Rennes (ISCR), Rennes Background Publications The proposed collaboration between the CSIR-IICT (with expertise on the synthesis of natural products No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil and peptides) and University of Rennes teams (with No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 expertise on the design of novel catalysts, and their evaluation for organic synthesis) is aimed at the development of new Ruthenium based catalysts, Mobility Support their utilization for the sp3 C-H bond activation en India to France: 1 route to the synthesis of diverse scaffolds and Target France to India: Nil Oriented Synthesis (TOS) of natural products.
Objectives To design and evaluate new ruthenium (or iridium) catalysts for sp3C-H bond activation. • To design and synthesize alicylic nitrogen containing scaffolds (pyrrolidines, piperidines, • piperazines, fused bicyclic amines). To establish appropriate reaction conditions for the metal catalyzed CC and C-N bond • formation with benzylic, allylic alcohols, diols and dialdehydes. To apply ruthenium catalysts for the Target Knowledge/Products Developed Oriented Synthesis (TOS) of nitrogen containing • natural products. Synthesis of chiral diols to conduct cyclization reactions. To prepare chiral ruthenium complexes using • diamines. • γ4-), with carbohydrate side chains. • Synthesis of intermediates for chiral β-amino acids / Synthesis of chiral morpholine and piperazine Tonon-natural explore chiral amino ruthenium acids (β3-, complexes β2-, β2, for 2- andthe derivatives for cyclization reactions. enantioselective C-C bond forming reactions • Synthesis of polycyclic and heterocyclic amines via N-C, • throughthe C-H bond activation. CC and C-O bond formation based on cascade catalytic • transformations. New ligands and transition metal catalysts for hydrogen transfer reactions and sp3C-H bond functionalization. •
Annual Report | 2014-15 123 New Projects Materials Science
Project No. : 5108-1 May 2014 - Oct. 2017 Synthesis of Photocatalytic Porous Silicon-Containing Principal Collaborators Nitride And Oxynitride
Ravi Kumar N. V Samuel Bernard Nanocomposites Indian Institute of Technology-Madras European Membrane Institute Chennai Place Eugène Bataillon Background Montpellier The project relates to energy application and Publications concerns the hydrogen production, related to the No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil environment. In the first domain, the main issue No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil produced by methane reforming. Chemical hydrides arefact thatalternative more thanhydrogen 90% ofsource hydrogen that isare currently stable and can produce pure hydrogen. Some of them are Mobility Support India to France : Nil catalyst support of co-catalyst that permits to France to India : Nil maximizereversible. the The production challenge isof tohydrogen find an from appropriate boron- based chemical hydrides. To face the world-wide issue of the treatment of pollutants, the manufacturing of photocatalytic porous ceramic is required. Non- oxide ceramics represent the best choice.
Objectives To synthesize (photo)catalytic (which means catalytic and photocatalytic) porous • Silicon-Containing Nitride and Oxynitride Nanocomposites via the Polymer-Derived (a) Structure of porous SiOC/TiO2 nanocomposite with interconnected Ceramics (PDCs) route. cell walls and (b) Titania (anatase) nanoparticles in an amorphous SiOC To prepare nanocomposites in which titanium matrix and/or zirconium oxide/oxynitride/nitride • nanocrystals are formed during the synthesis of the silicon nitride and oxynitride matrices with (photo)catalytic activity & adsorbent capacity Knowledge/Products Developed (by immobilizing adsorbents in the porosity of materials) concomitantly being stable in severe Synthesis and characterization (structural/mechanical) conditions. of SiOC-TiO2/TiCN/TiN based nanocomposites • To prepare porous silicon nitride-based materials Analysis on the synthesis and characterization of SiOC/ such as ordered mesoporous powders and ZrO2 nanocomposites • mesoporous monoliths as supports of catalysts • Development of thermodynamic database for nitride base for nitrides and oxy-nitrides of silicon containing or co-catalysts for hydrogen (H2) production. Synthesis of porous silicon-containing • transition metal (titanium or zirconium) system using experimental data from literature and ab-inito data • Ta)@a-Si3N4 nanocomposites) to be used for nitride nanocomposites (nc-MN (M=Ti, Zr, photodegradation of dye and photoassisted H2 production.
124 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Materials Science New Projects
Project No. : 5208-1 March 2015 - March 2018 Plasiticity of Principal Collaborators Covalent Nanoparticles
Umesh V Waghmare Laurent Pizzagalli J Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Institut P’ – CNRS – Université de Poitiers Research, Bangalore - ENSMA Background Publications Recent experimental advances led to several important breakthroughs, showing for instance that No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil when one or several dimensions are reduced. However,toughness there and are strength several canissues significantly that prevent increase a fuller understanding: there is a large disparity of results Mobility Support in experiments, and very small systems, i.e. below India to France : Nil 100 nm, are hardly accessible from the latter. Also, France to India : Nil while it is now common to probe the mechanical response of nanowires or nanopillars, it is more
an important class of nano-objects. Finally, there is adifficult lack ofto dealknowledge with nanoparticles, concerning whichsemiconductors constitute compared to metals. This motivates this project that aims at a better understanding of the mechanical properties of semiconductor nanospheres of sizes below 100n musing atomistic calculations. Objectives It is proposed to investigate the plasticity properties of covalent nanoparticles using Two nanoparticles after molecular dynamics relaxation, and prior to • mechanical testing (Si: yellow ball, C: black ball, H: white ball). Left: dynamics methods, with materials such as Si, Hydrogen-passivated silicon carbide spherical system. Right: Core- consideredboth first-principles as a model and and classical well documented molecular shell Si/SiC facetted system. material, and SiC, interesting for applications. It is known that nano-objects are characterized Knowledge/Products Developed This project has started recently. ratio, and that functionalization is possible by by specific properties due to high surface/bulk • nanotubes, there have been few studies of plasticitysurface modification. properties Comparedof nanoparticles. to nanopillars/ With numerical simulations, mechanical testing of realistic nanoparticles will be performed, in order to determine the elasticity limits and identify the different plasticity mechanisms and their activation domains as a function of size, geometry, and surface state. Mechanisms like dislocation nucleation, twinning, phase transition, and eventually crack nucleation are expected. Study of core/shell systems, mixing Si and SiC, or using amorphous materials as a surrogate for oxide will be done.
Annual Report | 2014-15 125 New Projects Environmental Science
Project No. : 5109-1 April 2014 - April 2017 Survey of Soil-Si pools and Contribution of Si Fertilization Principal Collaborators in Sustainable Rice
Cultivation in South India N. B. Prakash J. D. Meunier University of Agricultural Sciences CNRS Bangalore CEREGE, UM 34 Aix Marseille Université Background Aix en Provence, Marseille In India, rice accounts for more than 40% of the Publications food grain production, covers about one fourth of the total cropped area providing direct employment No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil to 70% of people inhabiting rural area. Silicon (Si) No. of papers presented in conferences: 2 is generally not considered as an essential nutrient for improving their yields. Application of silicon Mobility Support fertilizersfor crops but can many mitigate studies environmental have proven stresses its benefits and India to France: 3 soil nutrient depletion constituting an alternative France to India: 2 to the extensive use of phyto sanitary and NPK fertilizers for maintaining sustainable agriculture. The integration of Si in agricultural practices is Field Experiment at VC Farm, Mandya to monitor budgeting of silicon in rice plot during summer 2015 therefore effective in a few countries but not yet in India. The fundamental issues addressed in this project are the characterization of the bioavailable pools of Si in the major agro climatic zones of of Si application. Karnataka and the evaluation the potential benefits Objectives The major objective of the project is to understand the relationship between bioavailability and speciation of Si in soils and growth and performance of rice in Karnataka. Three tasks were planned: To characterize the status of Si in cultivated soils of Karnataka as a function of climate, pH Knowledge/Products Developed • and parent rock composition. Mineralogy and geochemistry of 18/40 samples representing To assess the Si budget in wetland rice different agro climatic zones have been performed ecosystems with and without Si application. • Quartz, Na and K feldspars, amphibole, and phyllosilicates • To assess the bioavailability of different sources (chlorite, muscovite) are the main primary minerals of Si in rice cropping system in acidic, neutral • • and alkaline soils. The bioavailable Si pools are assessed by 3extractants: CaCl2 identified in most of the samples • iron oxides mainly and Na2CO3 for amorphous silica and a fractionfor immediate of clay minerals. dissolved Si; acetic acid for Si adsorbed on 7. Brief Reports of Research Projects • thatThe thefirst application season experiment of Si slightly on budgetingincreased theof siliconyields in rice Potfield experiments was a great success.reveal that The contrary first analytical to what results is generally reveal b. Industry Academia Research & Development Programme
• stated, clay minerals can be a significant source of Si for rice. 126 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research 7. Brief Reports of Research Projects b. Industry Academia Research & Development Programme Completed Projects
Shaping of Durable, Thermal Shock Resistant High Volume Ceramic Containers Background Thermal shock occurs when a thermal gradient causes different parts of an object to expand by different amounts. This differential expansion can be understood in terms of stress or of strain, equivalently. The susceptibility of ceramic materials to thermal stresses has been recognized for a long time, since derivation of equations for thermal stresses arising from temperature gradients in a cylinder by J M C Duhamel in year 1838. The Centre for Ceramic Processing at International Advanced Research Centre for power Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) have expertise in formulating ceramic compositions for engineered properties. M/S Pierre Arquie Ceramique Technique (P A C T) have their capacity for shaping high volume ceramic containers. CeraDecor India is a well-known supplier of ceramic frits, pigments, third fire colors, mediums and decoration material for tiles, sanitaryware, tableware and glassware industry. Considering the huge commercial potential of durable ceramic crucibles, the three organizations proposed to collaborate in the area of their respective expertise to optimize the established slip casting process develop at P A C T extending to a wide range of thermal resistant formulations developed at ARCI into various configurations such as large crucibles, nozzles and other ceramic articles looking at various applications.
Objective To develop a process for casting high volume, thermal shock resistant ceramic containers with improved life time.
Knowledge Generated / Products Developed Thermal shock resistant formulations Optimization of the slip properties suitable for • casting. • Sintering schedule to obtain thermal shock resistant containers of approx. dimensions • ∅ 210 x H170 x th 20 mm
Indian Partner French Partner
Y.S. Rao Monsieur G. Rosenblat International Advanced Research Centre for Pierre Arquié Céramique Technique Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (PACT) Hyderabad Limoges
128 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Completed Projects
Screening for K-Ras and B-Raf Mutations in Tumor Tissues & Circulating Nucleic Acids Present in Plasma and Urine in Patients with Colo-Rectal Cancers in India Background Cancer affecting colon and rectum (Colo-Rectal Cancer, CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in several parts of the world. Incidence of colo-rectal cancers in India is considerably low (4.3 Male and 3.4 Female per 100, 000), but has been rising over three decades. Significant quantities of tumor specific Nucleic Acids (NAs) are found in the biological fluids of patients with cancer. Development of a diagnostic method for the detection of nucleic acids in biological fluids such as blood-plasma / urine patients will represent a technological breakthrough in semi-invasive or non-invasive diagnosis of cancer. Institut de Rechercheen Cancérologie de Montpellier, France is collaborating with research teams devoted to cancer research. The methodology for detecting the mutations in biological fluids of CRC patients in France has been developed at Institut de Rechercheen Cancérologie de Montpellier by Dr. Alain R. Thiery. The Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology (CCMB) is a premier research organization of CSIR, involved in high quality basic research and training in frontier areas of modern biology. Considering the relevant expertise of both the institutions, it was agreed to develop a proposal where the methodology developed by Dr. Thiery was employed to detect the presence of the K-Ras and B-Raf gene mutations in CRC patients in India. In addition, it was proposed to develop the methodology for isolation of nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) from Urine of CRC patients. Based on the results, a non-invasive theranostic tool, useful to detect tumor specific nucleic acids present in plasma/urine, was to be developed. Objective To test for the presence of K-RAS and B-RAF mutations in colo-rectal tumors of Indian patients and to develop methodology to isolate and concentrate circulating nucleic acids from urine and also from plasma. Knowledge Generated / Products Developed Isolation of nucleic acids from biological samples such as plasma and urine has been standardized by conventional methods and also by novel • Detection of mutations of K-Ras and B-Raf in tumor DNA/plasma and urinemethod of usingpatients modified with colorectal silica matrix cancers and inmagnetic India using nano-particles real time PCR. based Intplex methodology has been standardized. • mutated K-Ras. Some of tumors had hetergenous mutations. One novel and silent mutation was detected in the samples. • 2A oftotal the of tumor 39 tumor samples samples were were tested evaluated positive and for detected B-Raf V600E 64% samplesmutations. positive for the wild type K-Ras and 36% positive for A new methodology for isolation of nucleic acids from urine was standardized. • •
Indian Partner French Partner
Ch. Mohan Rao Alain R. Thierry Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology Sysdiag UMR3145-CNRS Hyderabad CR1 INSERM Montpellier
Annual Report | 2014-15 129 Completed Projects
Design & Scientific Validation of an Operational Protocol Allowing Real Time & Dynamic Mapping of Particulate Pollution Using Quantitative Indicators in the Vicinity of Intense Sources Background Needs in air quality management are evolving from in situ measurements to spatially resolved observations in real time. Two key points motivated the will of LEOSPHERE to support dedicated research resources to air pollution monitoring. The first one was the growing importance attached to particles by research groups and institutional health agencies, since their impacts on visibility and health are now evidenced. The second is the growing concern about local pollution and individual exposition to pollution. The aerosol scanning Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology from LEOSPHERE can contribute to explore both aspects. Market applications mainly include local air pollution mapping in the vicinity of an intense source, like an urban highway for instance, and impact assessment studies on the neighbouring environment of industrial point sources. Key developments were however necessary to efficiently tackle such markets, which are traditionally driven by standards and certified monitoring tools. It was the aim of the present research project, which could propose the design and the scientific validation of an operational protocol allowing real time and dynamic mapping of particulate pollution, using quantitative indicators. Indeed, one of the challenges definitely sits on the capacity for a LIDAR signal to be expressed into mass concentrations in μg/m3.
Objective The project aimed at measurement of air quality to map the pollution, through LIDAR and complementary systems. This was expected to lead protocol allowing real time and dynamic mapping of particulateto design and pollution scientific using validation quantitative of an operationalindicators. The objective was to have an integrated process that will provide to the air quality market, an innovative solution to experimentally map the particulate pollution distribution using quantitative indicators and provide an alternative to the in-situ measurements.
Knowledge Generated / Products Developed The validation of the retrieval method of aerosol properties from the backscattered LIDAR signal. The understanding of which parameters affect the quality of conversion from the LIDAR optical raw data to • mass concentration of aerosols. • the optimal equipment cost. • The definition of the instrumental package providing the optimal error on the estimated aerosol mass versus Indian Partner French Partners
Chandra Venkataraman Jean-Francois Leon Benjamin Guinot Indian Institute of Technology- Laboratoired’Aérologie, Observatoire Leosphere SAS Bombay, Mumbai Midi-Pyrénées, Edouard Belin, Toulouse Orsay
130 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research On Going Projects
Selective Oxidations with Hydrogen Peroxide: Development of New Catalyst & Process conditions
Background Hydrogen Peroxide is a well-known green oxidant that produces water and oxygen as by products. It is considered extremely useful compound for use in environmentally friendly industrial processes. CSIR-NCL has good knowledge of activation catalysts for hydrogen peroxide. ARKEMA is a producer and distributor of Hydrogen Peroxide whose skills in oxidation reactions are widely recognized. UCCS is an organization renowned for its competencies in catalysis and spectroscopic characterization of catalysts. It works on the oxidation of organic molecules. The project focused on activation of the green oxidant hydrogen peroxide and its use as a reagent in reactions with biomass. Different selective oxidations with hydrogen peroxide were studied based on the various molybdenum complexes developed by NCL.
Objectives Development of new catalysts and process conditions for selective oxidation with hydrogen • peroxide Promotion of oxidation processes using the green oxidant hydrogen peroxide, accessible to a • large number of end-users
Knowledge Generated / Products Developed 14 catalysts samples prepared Catalysed were characterized directly after synthesised showing the presence of the ligands • • concentration of Mo species in peroxide solution • OxidationSeveral catalysts of veratryl were alcohol characterized in neutral by medium Raman, 95Mowas found NMR better and UV-Visible than in basic spectroscopy medium using high and low Recycling tests of the catalysts were successful • •
Indian Partner French Partners
Shubhangi Umbarkar Markus Brandhorst Edmond Payen National Chemical Laboratory, ARKEMA,Centre de Recherche, UCCS - UMR CNRS 8181 Pune Rhône-Alpes Université Lille 1, Lille
Annual Report | 2014-15 131 On Going Projects
Financial-Inclusion Based Upon Rural Mobiquitous Services Technological Platform
Background Although conventional approaches to tackling poverty are useful and necessary, they are not sufficient to address the challenge. Financial inclusion (FI) offers incremental and complementary solutions to tackle poverty, to promote inclusive development, reduction of poverty, inequality and stimulation of job creation. Information technology has a major role to play in taking financial services to the masses in a safe and secure manner. An Indo-French Seminar on secure communication and transactions was organized by CEFIPRA in July 2010. Based on deliberations during and after the seminar, and mutual interest of TCS and other participants, project “FIRST” was conceived and proposed. In the project, TCS has been identified as a key industry partner along with University of Nice-France, Gemalto-France and Indian Institute of Science Bangalore, India. The overall goal of the project was to enable India and other emerging countries to contribute to build a pragmatic vision regarding Financial Inclusion (FI) and Rural Inclusion scenario by offering a viable business model with low-cost, secure, generic and symmetric NFC prototype open equally both to banks, Mobile Network Operators (MNO) or service providers.
Objective ecosystem having variable business models with low-cost, secured services involving banks,To develop MNOs a unifiedand other and stakeholders integrated platform to support as wellrural as initiatives to create/offer in India. a sustainable Knowledge Generated / Products Developed • FIRST Platform - FIRST Service Integration Hub The FIRST platform and ‘FIRST Service Integration Hub’ will offer an integrated platform for easy plug-in of the rural inclusion based services like FI, PDS, NREGA, RSBY etc. thereby allowing faster, low-cost and convenient implementation of the Government initiatives. • Rural Services ( FI, RSBY, NAREGA, PDS etc) with Virtual Coins Rural Services like Financial Inclusion with virtual coins offers multi-fold FI Mobile Application (Android)
unbanked people and secondly it provides a small community money exchange ecosystem based on virtual coinsbenefits eliminating to the rural the needpopulation. of any physicalFirstly, it cash. offers As easypart ofbanking the virtual services coin integratedfor the FI solution, android mobile
banking transactions. applications have been developed for bank agents, FI beneficiaries and merchants for coin exchange and other
Indian Partners French Partners
C. E. VeniMadhavan Serge Miranda Indian Institute of Science Université de Nice Bangalore Sophia Antipolis Sundeep Oberoi J. P. Tual Tata Consultancy Services GEMALTO Mumbai France Debi Prasad Pati Tata Consultancy Services Kolkata
132 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research On Going Projects
TILLING in Cucurbits: A Non-Transgenic Reverse Genetic Approach for Muskmelon Crop Improvement
Background A melon is any of various plants of the family Cucurbitaceae with edible, fleshy fruit. The word “melon” can refer to either the plant or specifically to the fruit. Many different cultivars have been produced, particularly of muskmelons. In melon, sex determination is genetically governed by the genes andromonoecious (a) and gynoecious(g) and the interplay of these two genes result in a range of sexual flower types. The A and the G genes have been recently cloned by Dr Bendahmane’s group at the URGV-INRA lab and manipulating these has been shown to increase yield in melons. The lab has created Long Shelf Life (LSL) muskmelon by TILLING muskmelon orthologs of tomato LSL gene. A novel non-transgenic reverse genetic tool, TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes), developed and patented at URGV-INRA lab provides an alternative way to manipulate endogenous genes for the improvement of crops. TILLING technology has been licensed by Bench Bio Pvt. Ltd., and brought to India for improvement of crops. The aim of this proposal is to apply TILLING technology to Indian muskmelon varieties of Namdhari Seeds Pvt. Ltd (NSL), as starting point with the aim of generating lines with new and improved traits for Indian and worldwide markets. The ultimate goal of this project is to produce stable melon plant prototypes carrying novel traits such as LSL and female flower only producing plants (gynoecious) for hybrid seed production, to test them for agronomic importance and finally develop commercial products.
Objectives To apply “TILLING technology” developed and patented by URGV-INRA lab, France and brought to • India by Bench Bio to Indian muskmelon varieties belonging to Namdhari Seeds Pvt Ltd (NSL) for generating mutant lines with new traits. To select mutant varieties with novel traits towards crop improvement: Long Shelf-Life (LSL) and • Gynoecious. To perform selective crossing and to develop improved, stable melon plant prototypes with Long • Shelf Life and Gynoecious trait. To assess their agronomic importance and to develop
• markets for the above traits. a final commercial cultivars for Indian and worldwide Knowledge Generated / Products Developed Mutant populations were completed in both Indian and French lines. Screening of the muskmelon population was done successfully at URGV lab for candidate LSL genes and a good LSL • mutant was obtained. • LSL mutant and markers were given to NSL for evaluation, seed bulking and crossing using marker assisted selection (MAS). These mutants were crossed to NSL line for commercial product development. • • Indian Partners French Partner
Manash Chatterjee Uday Singh Abdelhafid Bendahmane Bench Bio Pvt. Ltd (BBIO) Namdhari Seeds Pvt. Ltd (NSL) INRA Valsad Bangalore Paris
Annual Report | 2014-15 133 New Projects
Ultrasonic Shear Horizontal (SH) Guided Waves Generated by Electro Magnetic Acoustic Transducers (EMAT) for the Inspection of Bond Quality in Aero-Space Composite Joints Background This project seeks to build upon the results of recent collaborative projects between Astrium-ST (AST), the University of Bordeaux (UB), IIT-Madras (IITM) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore that present promising capabilities for the inspection of adhesive joints in composite materials using ultrasonic shear horizontal (SH) guided waves generated by Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers (EMATs).
Objectives To develop NDE technique for composite bondings based on guided ultrasonic SH modes • generated by dedicated ElectroMagnetic Acoustic
To create models to design EMAT sensors adapted Transducer (EMAT) sensors; Time-trace showing S0 mode transmitted across and reflections for inspection of composite lap joint. from Lap joint • Obtain theoretical model for understanding SH behaviour in composite lap joints • Obtain experimental result on metallic and composite lap joints •
Indian Partners French Partners
7. Brief Reports of Research Projects K. Balasubramaniam S. Gopalakrishnan Sujatha Chakravarthy Michel Castaings Oudea Coumar Indian Institute of Technology- Indian Institute of Science Dhvani Research & Bordeaux University, I2M (Institut de Airbus DS Madras, Chennai Bangalore Development Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Mecanique et Ingenierie / Saint Médard C. Targeted Programmes Chennai Mechanical Aquitaine Engineering Institute of Bordeaux) Universite de Bordeaux, Talence
134 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research 7. Brief Reports of Research Projects C. Targeted Programmes DST-INRA Targeted Programme CEFIPRA initiated its first targeted programme in 2012 in association with Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA). Receiving support for funds by DST and INRA, CEFIPRA is implementing the programme on behalf of both the organizations. The focus of DST-INRA programmeis on the area of integrated water management in agriculture in the context of climate change. Adaptation of Irrigated Agriculture to Climate Change Background The expected impact of climate change on agriculture and water resources is the subject of an ever growing literature. The problem of excessive groundwater extraction has resulted in declining groundwater levels, water quality deterioration, rise in extraction costs, depletion of well yield and failure of wells in peninsular India. Addressing this question requires considering the interactions between all the components of the system, including hydrology, economics and agronomy. Few attempts of integrative assessment using coupled economic and agro-hydrogeological models for optimizing the economic benefits of agriculture and sustainable groundwater levels are found in the literature. The impact of climate change on local agricultural producers has been addressed in some cases. However, there is lack of integration between the water management aspects, the agronomic issues and the perspective of climate change.
Objectives In the context of climate change and of agriculture increasingly relying on groundwater irrigation, it is crucial to develop reliable methods for sustainability assessment of current and alternative agricultural systems. The project aims to develop an integrated model (in agronomy, hydrogeology and economics) and scenarios of evolution of agricultural systems and water management policies, which is being tested both at the farm scale and the watershed scale in the case of an experimental watershed in Peninsular India. It is proposed to combine both economic impacts on the crop production and hydrogeological regime and hydro-economic feedbacks on the future land use and productivity. A methodology modeling for retrieving spatially distributed relevant combiningbiophysical parameters remote sensing, and factors field determining surveys and cropping inverse Illustration of the data acquisition in the South Gundal watershed : systems will be used. A farmer decision model will be stream drainage and depth to groundwater levels. developed to investigate the farming system adaptability to changing climate or economic context. Knowledge Generated/Products Developed The proof of concept for retrieving distributed soil properties by model inversion using STICS and soil moisture
• A spatio-temporal downscaling method of soil moisture from passive microwave (SMOS) using active microwave (RADARSAT-2)and crop variables was from developed satellite and data tested. (radar) was finalized and published. • An innovative method to map the land use and land cover changes from a multi-temporal satellite dataset of low resolution images using Brovey Transformation was developed. In particular, it helped in constructing the • evolution Principalof the irrigated Collaborators area in the watershed for the periodPublications 1973-2012. No. of publications in SCI journals : 5 No. of papers presented in conferences: 16
Mobility Support Sekhar Muddu Laurent Ruiz Indian Institute of Science Bangalore Institut National de la India to France : Collaborators - 4 Recherche Agronomique Rennes-Quimper France to India : Collaborators - 6
136 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research DST-Inria-CNRS Targeted Programme The programme was initiated during the year 2013-14, where CNRS & Inria support the French component of the programme, DST supports the Indian component. On behalf of DST, CEFIPRA manages the implementation of programme on the Indian side and coordinates between French & Indian organizations. The focus of DST-Inria-CNRS-targeted programme is on the areas of Big Data, Cyber-Physical Systems and High Performance Computing etc.. Progress of six projects were supported during year 2014-15 is as follows: Basal Ganglia At Large Background Structures such as the Pre-Frontal Cortex (PFC), the Basal Ganglia (BG) and the Hippocampus are studied in cognitive neuroscience to understand reasoning and planning particularly through the consequences of lesions in the system and neuro- degeneration. Computer science is playing an increasingly important role in the domain of Computational Neuroscience, through the design of models that are new experimental tools to neuroscientists that can also be used in the domain of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for the design of intelligent and adaptable artificial systems. Many computational models of the neuronal structures have been proposed and validated using data from experiments in neuroscience and medicine. Nevertheless, most of these modeling approaches have important limitations in terms of size of the networks and their biological plausibility. This is being addressed in this project by simulating large models possibly eliciting large scale effects (eg. noise, spontaneous activity, emerging properties) and on realistic tasks involving multiple and large information flows. Objectives The aim of the project is to develop large scale models of the Basal Ganglia. The primary objective is to select a few classical models of the Basal Ganglia, the Pre- Frontal Cortex (PFC) and the Hippocampus and inter- connections to expand them to larger scale, with realistic anatomical and functional connectivity. The goal is to implement and test these models on tasks where the
are larger and hence more realistic. input (sensory) and output (motor) information flows Knowledge Generated/Products Developed Three small-scale models have been simulated and tested so far. A reaching model has been built comprising the cortical loop consisting of the Motor Cortex, Somatosensory (Proprioceptive) Cortex, BG and an arm model. Preliminary version of a biologically realistic model of Dopamine signal from the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) is built. A third model of Cortico-Basal Ganglia loops for reward-based decision making has been simulated and tested for consequences of modulating saliency and delay of presentation of stimuli. Scaling up of these models is in progress.
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers presented in conferences: 3
Mobility Support Bapi Raju Srinvasa Frederic Alexandre IIIT, Hyderabad Chakravarthy LaBRI, INRIA Bordeaux India to France : Collaborators - 1 IIT Madras, Chennai France to India : Collaborators - 2
Annual Report | 2014-15 137 DST-Inria-CNRS Targeted Programme
Evolving Communities and Information Spreading
Background This project explores the properties of real world networks and investigates the behavior of inherent community structures and information diffusion. Community formation needs to be studied considering the fact that most of the real networks exhibit multilayer structure. Moreover, it is now realized that the real networks are temporal in nature, hence communities evolve with time and studying a snapshot of such time instance produce incomplete picture. Several dynamics play important role, for example, understanding emergence of new links (aka. friendship/relationship) in the network, which can form the basis of any recommended system, rate at which information disseminates over the network important is to understand epidemic, rumor spread etc. In the current project, collaborators approach the problem from various angles like – building models/algorithms to detect dynamic community, model information spread in social network (Twitter), collecting large time-stamped network data, defining new metrics as well as building benchmark data to evaluate the goodness of dynamic communities. Objective The main goal of the project is to understand the dynamics of complex networks through the lens of communities and information spreading and the potential relations between these two problems. In the first year, collaborators have focused on the analyzing information spread in social networks, say in Twitter.
Propagation of hashtags
Knowledge Generated/Products Developed Prototype “Easy-Mention” or application (APP) has been developed which will help for selecting proper Twitter users for mentioning in their tweets. By using the “Easy-Mention” APP, one can recommend exactly who are the most suitable users to mention in their tweets for making the post popular by gaining high number of retweets.
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers presented in conferences: 3
Mobility Support Bivas Mitra Jean-Loup Guillaume IIT-Kharagpur CNRS et Université Pierre et Marie Curie, India to France : Collaborators - 3 Kharagpur Paris France to India : Collaborators - 7
138 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research DST-Inria-CNRS Targeted Programme
Post-stroke tele-neurorehabilitation using an operant conditioning paradigm under volitionally driven transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation Background Stroke is a global health problem and fourth leading cause of disability worldwide. In France, stroke is the leading cause of acquired disability in adults. While the incidence of stroke is decreasing in developed world, the incidence is increasing in India. Unfortunately, India is in dire need for neuro-rehabilitation facilities and this may strain India’s health care system in the coming years. One of the most common complications after stroke is lack of balance and falls that adversely affects most day-to-day activities. This research project aims to develop a use-inspired neuro-physiology-based operant conditioning paradigm that is based on volitionally-driven Neuro-muscular Electrical Stimulation to generate functional movement for restorative neurorehabilitation. Collaborators plan to develop a clinically valid, low-cost home-based tool for post-stroke balance and movement therapy, which can be used both in rural and urban community settings, will be a paradigm shift for neuro-rehabilitation in India. Objectives Develop a cyber physical system for teleneurorehabilitation by integrating biosignal sensors, eye tracker, and motion capture to deliver volitionally-driven multi-channel neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) • Develop gaze interaction with biofeedback as the human-machine interface for the cyber physical system to enforce active supraspinal participation for operant conditioning • Validate the cyber physical system for individualized post-stroke teleneurorehabilitation
•
Knowledge Generated/Products Developed Develop a cyber physical system for teleneurorehabilitation by integrating biosignal sensors, eye tracker, and motion capture to deliver volitionally-driven multi-channel neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) Develop gaze interaction with biofeedback as the human-machine interface for the cyber physical system to enforce active supraspinal participation for operant conditioning Validate the cyber physical system for individualized post-stroke teleneurorehabilitation
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of publications in SCI journals : 2 No. of papers presented in conferences: 1
No.Mobility of patents: Support 1 application filed Uttama Lahiri Anirban Dutta Institute of Technology, DEMAR, INRIA -Sophia India to France : Collaborators - 3 Gandhinagar Antipolis, Montpellier France to India : Collaborators - 2
Annual Report | 2014-15 139 DST-Inria-CNRS Targeted Programme
Personalized Mobility Services for Urban Travelers
Background With over 70% of the world’s entire population expected to be living in cities by 2050, supporting citizens’ mobility within the urban environment is a priority for municipalities worldwide. Although public multimodal transit systems are necessary to better manage mobility, they are not sufficient. Citizens must be offered personalized travel information to make their journeys more efficient and enjoyable. Notably, such information should not only be objective (e.g., bus timetable, live bus tracking), but crucially personalized – since every passenger preferences and interests differ (e.g., crowdedness of trains, heat of tube platforms, sociability of the coaches). To enable this, a multitude of research problems need to be solved. On the one hand, efficient techniques for mobile participatory sensing are required to create robust mobile distributed systems that can provide ondemand sensing information at a large scale. This needs to then be complemented by domainspecific machine learning algorithms, which must be able to execute on resourceconstrained mobile devices with heterogeneous configurations. Objectives Development of a scalable data collection middleware and personalized mobility services • Learning and mining techniques for sustainability Development of a demonstrator for real-life • assessment and deployment with actual end-users •
Knowledge Generated/Products Developed An android application called Metro Cognition for gathering commuters convenience during a metro transit has been developed, deployed and made available for testing (Beta version2) on Google Play Store. The application can be found on https://play.google.com/apps/testing/edu.sarathi.metrocognition. This Android application supports the metro systems of Delhi and Paris. It allows users to rate their journeys by providing feedback on three parameters – waiting time, seat availability and comfort. These ratings are then used for predicting metro routes to users. The application is currently available with 10 users in Delhi and 13 users in Paris. The collaborators are currently extending the same to be available to the public with various user interface updates.
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers presented in conferences: 1
Mobility Support Pushpendra Singh Rachit Agarwal IIIT-Delhi, New Delhi Inria, Paris India to France : Collaborators - 2 France to India : Collaborators - 4
140 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research DST-Inria-CNRS Targeted Programme
Optimal Inference in Complex and Turbulent Data
Background The project focuses on nonlinear signal processing for universe science, with a strong emphasis on data fusion in earth observation and monitoring. The extension and development of a collaboration between the Inria’s GEOSTAT team and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee’s, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering rests on a strong complementary in both partners expertises with respect to the project Nonlinear physics puts strong evidence of the fundamental role played by multiscale hierarchies in complex and turbulent data: in these data, the information content is statistically localized in geometrical arrangements in the signal’s domain, while such geometrical organization is not attainable by classical methods in linear signal processing. This is one of the major drawbacks in the analysis of complex and turbulent signals. The goal of this associated team is to show that inference of physical variables along the scales of complex and turbulent signals can be performed through optimal multi-resolution analysis performed on nonlinear features and data extracted from the signals, resulting in novel and powerful approaches for data analysis and fusion between different acquisitions (in temporal/spatial/spectral resolutions). This programme needs both strong expertise in the physical processes beyond the acquisitions and the application of nonlinear physics ideas on the behavior of the acquired physical phenomena. In the framework of the project, respective teams focus on five different aspects of image and signal analysis for remote sensing: Feature detection, Data fusion, Super-resolution, Classification and Optimal data representations. Novel approaches in nonlinear signal processing are applied to a wide range of practical applications to develop methods for management of huge satellite data, for effective Earth Monitoring for various applications like Agriculture Monitoring, Land Cover Monitoring, Sub-Surface Fire Monitoring, Ocean Monitoring. Objectives New methods in data fusion of signals acquired at different spatial resolutions and having different • spectral characteristics and application of novel methods from non-linear signal processing
in observed data • ReconstructionFinding fingerprints of signals of common from most universality informative classes sets. Comparison with compressive sensing approaches. • Application to data from universe science and earth observation •
Classified PALSAR-1(Phased Array L-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar) image with fusion of color histograms using PCA of the Roorkee region of India (Red-Urban, Blue-Water, Green-Vegetation, Yellow-Bare Soil) Knowledge Generated/Products Developed A fusion approach has been evaluated and applied for different resolution of satellite data for enhancement of
• the land cover information especially Hot spots (sub surface fire) and land cover classes • DevelopmentPrincipal of time Collaborators series technique for monitoring thePublications hot spots (sub surface fire) No. of publications in SCI journals : 6 No. of papers presented in conferences: 8
Mobility Support Dharmendra Singh Hussein Yahia India to France : Collaborators - 1 Indian Institute of Technology- Roorkee INRIA BSO Roorkee Bordeaux France to India : Collaborators - 1
Annual Report | 2014-15 141 DST-Inria-CNRS Targeted Programme
Algorithmic Verification of Real-Time Systems Background Digital systems control most of the devices that surround us. Timing constraints are often crucial for cyber-physical systems that are designed to interact with the physical world. Correctness of cyber-physical systems that work under time-constraints is an ongoing challenge since traditional methods based on testing are no longer applicable in a safety-critical setting. This project aims at enlarging the applicability of formal verification for certifying correctness of timed systems. The model of timed automata has been introduced more than 25 years ago and has been an object of intensive study. It has also been successfully used in verification of cyberphysical systems. A verification system Uppaal based on the timed automata model, has been developed for the last 20 years. In 2013 it has received the Computer Aided Verification award for “becoming an industrial-strength tool for computer-aided verification of computing systems that has been applied to many case studies by several research groups in academia and industry”. At present Uppaal has also its commercial version (see http://processalgebra.blogspot. fr/2013/07/cav-award-2013.html). Since the last four years collaborators are working on improving state of the art algorithms for the verification of timed cyber- physical systems. The research results open a way to new approaches to algorithmic verification of timed systems. The goal of this project is to explore these new possibilities, and to make them accessible to industrial designers. Collaborators aim at constructing a tool that will be able to verify bigger systems and will facilitate the use of formal verification methods by designers. Objectives
Decidability Questions • Efficient Algorithms for Real-Time Systems Verification Complexity • • Tool development • Synthesis of Real-Time Controllers from Specifications •
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers presented in conferences: 3
Mobility Support Krishna S Frederic Herbreteau Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay, Institut Polytechnique de India to France : Collaborators - 3 Mumbai Bordeaux, Bordeaux France to India : Collaborators - 1
142 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research DST-ANR Targeted Programme
During the year 2012, DST-ANR targeted programme was initiated for fostering collaboration between scientific communities of two countries in specific thematic areas of science & technology over the period of 3 years. Mobility of the scientific personnel, human resources & recurring expenses are supported through this programme. ANR supports French investigators on project basis and DST supports project collaborators on the Indian side. On behalf of DST, CEFIPRA implements this programme on the Indian side. The Centre also coordinates between ANR and DST for implementation of the programme. Target areas identified for the 1st year of the programme were Infectious Diseases and Engineering Sciences and four projects were supported during 2014. Targeted areas during 2nd year of the programme were Neuro-sciences and Engineering Sciences (sub-areas: Materials Science, Chemistry, Intelligent Support System and Energy). Soluble Mediators of the Host Innate Immune System Against Aspergillus fumigatus Background Aspergillus fumigatus, though a saprophyte growing on decaying vegetation, is the most ubiquitous opportunistic human fungal pathogen. It causes a number of diseases such as lung/sinus aspergilloma and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in the predisposed immunocompetent human population. However, the most fatal one is the invasive aspergillosis (IA), a systemic infection in the immuno compromised individuals; the frequency of IA has risen more than 10-folds worldwide in the last two decades. A. fumigatus spores (conidia) entering the human lung alveoli are confronted with the innate immune system, both cellular barriers and soluble mediators. The role played by cellular barriers in evading A. fumigatus is quite well studied but that of the soluble mediators (complement system, collectins and antimicrobial peptides) is yet to be deciphered. Our project is focused on the interaction between A. fumigatus and the soluble mediators of the innate immune system. Accordingly, the main goals are as follows: Host → fungus: To understand the exact role played by the soluble mediators as immune effector elements against A. fumigatus. Fungus → host: To understand the role of A. fumigatus secretome in establishing pathogenicity by acting against defense mechanisms played by the soluble mediators of immune system. Objectives
wall components on the activation of the soluble mediators of the • immuneTo decipher system the influence of A. fumigatus morphotypes and their cell To analyze the role of A. fumigatus secreted proteins on the complement system, collectins and antimicrobial peptides • To study the antifungal effect of host defense (antimicrobial) peptides, alone/in combination with other drugs • Knowledge Generated/Products Developed • A. fumigatus secretes Mep1, a metalloprotease, which is capable of degrading complement components. And as a result, Mep1 is able to inhibit activation of all the three major pathways of complement system. Unlike Alp1, an alkaline protease, which is secreted after around 15-h of growth (by A. fumigatus mycelia), Mep1 is secreted by the conidia upon • contact with collagen containing medium. Conidia are the main infective morphotype which enter human lungs and lungs contain collagen. Mep1 reduces conidial opsonization and phagocytosis by human macrophages. A. fumigatus • conidial melanin is the ligand for SP-D on dormant conidia, whereas CRD recognizes the A. fumigatus mycelial cell wall • Collectingalactosaminogalactan SP-D contains on collagen germinating and conidia. carbohydrate recognition domains (CRD); we identified that the There was interaction between A. fumigatus conidial surface RodA protein and complement C3. Complement C3 binding to A. fumigatus conidia was mainly by ester linkage. • • Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers presented in conferences: 1
Mobility Support Arvind Sahu Vishukumar Aimanianda National Centre for Institut Pasteur, Paris India to France : Collaborators - 2 Cell Science, Pune France to India : Collaborators - Nil
Annual Report | 2014-15 143 DST-ANR Targeted Programme
Unravelling New Functions for the H-NS Family of Proteins in Gram-negative Bacterial Pathogens Background Pathogenic bacteria are responsible for causing considerable morbidity and mortality in their human and animal hosts, whose underlying virulence mechanisms need to be ascertained to identify suitable strategies to combat them. This project aims at unravelling the contributions of nucleoid-associated proteins from the H-NS family towards virulence of enterobacterial strains, with particular regard to their roles in (i) regulating genes encoded by pathogenicity islands in the genome, (ii) mediating nucleoid structure and gene regulation by binding to specific DNA and RNA sequences, and (iii) modulating Rho-dependent transcription termination by formation of polymeric scaffolds on DNA and/or RNA.
Objectives Investigation of virulence regulation by H‐NS and Ler proteins through analysis of nucleoprotein complexes and
• homomericgene transcription and heteromeric at AFI and complexes, LEE pathogenicity and characterizing islands and their identification role in transcriptional of genomic loci and controls post‐transcriptional • geneIdentification regulation of RNAs from E. coli K‐12 and enteropathogenic E. coli that specifically bind to StpA, H‐NS, and Ler • In vivo and in vitro delineation of the roles of H‐NS family proteins in modulation of Rho‐dependent transcription termination
Knowledge Generated/Products Developed The necessary experimental setup has been prepared and assays were standardized to undertake studies on (i) modulationthe cross-regulation of Rho-dependent by proteins transcription Ler, H-NS, terminationand GadE of by the the virulence H-NS family genes of nucleoidin EPEC (enteropathogenicproteins. E. coli); (ii) identity of specific RNAs which bind to the nucleoid associated proteins H-NS, StpA, or Ler; and (iii) in vitro
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil
Mobility Support J Gowrishankar Sylvie Rimsky Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Ecole Normale Supérieure de Cachan, India to France : Collaborators - 1 diagnostics, Hyderabad Cachan France to India : Collaborators - 2
144 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research DST-ANR Targeted Programme
Complex Oxide Nanocrystalline Systems for Chemical Sensors Background The project is on complex oxide systems including spinel ferrites and their response towards sensing low reactive gases like CO2. The work done include working with sensors of various forms including pellets made from nano crystalline powders, thick films prepared by screen printing and tape casting (using double doctor’s blade) and thin films deposited by RF sputtering and PLD. This project also aims to probe in to the sensing mechanisms in order to understand the reasons for the reactivity of certain metal oxide systems to specific gases. The purpose is to improve the performance of chemical sensor in terms of sensitivity, selectivity and stability. The interest will also be to reduce the response time, recovery time and the operating temperature of the sensor.
Objectives
nanocrystalline spinel ferrites (e.g. Mg ferrite and Ni ferrite in conjunction with oxides like copper oxide) which • To find suitable combination of semiconducting metal oxide composite materials comprising of iron containing may work as sensors for the detection of low reactive gases like CO2 To minimise the response time, recovery time and operating temperature for such sensors To improve the sensitivity of complex oxide nanocrystalline sensors towards through systematic experiments on the chosen • systems CO2 To improve selectivity towards certain gas species To do in situ hall effect and impedance measurement • • Knowledge Generated/Products Developed
•• CuFe2O4-CuO nanocomposites showed highest sensitivity of 4% to 5000ppm of CO2
•• CuFe2O4-CuO nanocomposites showed shorter response time compared to pure CuFe2O4 and CuO
•• CuFe2O4-CuO superlattice shows highest sensitivity of 50% with fresh sample and 17% after 3 months of
interval, to 5000ppm of CO2
•• 2, 86% to 500ppm of ethanol •• MgFe O nano powder showed 8% sensitivity to 5000ppm of CO Zinc ferrite2 4 thin film showed 9% sensitivity to 5000ppm of CO 2
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of publications in SCI journals : Nil No. of papers presented in conferences: Nil
Mobility Support N Venkataramani Antoine Barnabe India to France : Collaborators - Nil Indian Institute of Technology- Univrsité Paul Sabatier – Bombay, Mumbai Toulouse III Institut Carnot France to India : Collaborators - Nil CIRIMAT CNRS UMR 5085, Toulouse
Annual Report | 2014-15 145 DST-ANR Targeted Programme
Dense Particulate Systems
Background The proposal concerns the rheology of dry granular materials and particle-fluid suspensions in the regime where the particle and fluid inertia play no role. A principal objective is to bridge the descriptions for the contact-dominated dense granular flows and the fluid-dominated Stokesian suspension flows. The collaborators aim to quantify the contributions of the viscous and contact forces in the rheology of suspensions and saturated granular materials. They address this problem by using the unconventional experimental tools that they have developed, using particles of controlled roughness and stiffness, and by computations. Their other objectives are to attempt to answer some open questions, such as what are the normal stress differences in dry granular materials, how does the rheology depend on the particle roughness, and how do microstructural features vary between dense suspensions and dry granular materials? Answers to these will lead to a fundamental understanding of the rheology of particulate materials, and thereby more accurate constitutive models.
Objective To study the rheology and dynamics of dense particulate systems with and without a viscous • between the particle-scale properties and the macroscaleinterstitial response. fluid, and understand the relation
A secondary vortex formed when a dry granular materials is sheared in a cylin-drical Couette device. Image from Krishnaraj & Nott, Nature Comm. (2016). Knowledge Generated/Products Developed
geometry of an Antonpar MCR 301 Rheometer. The required temperature was maintained using the lower • PeltierThe mechanical plate of the characterization rheometer. By of controlling the PDMS thegel reactionwas done time, by casting and the a filmpercentage of the gel of crosslinkingin situ in parallel agent, plate the desired elastic modulus is achieved
Principal Collaborators Publications No. of papers in SCI Journals: 3 No. of papers presented in conferences: 10
Mobility Support Prabhu R. Nott Elisabeth Guazzelli Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore Universite Aix- Marseille India to France : Collaborators - Nil 8. Analysis of Scientific Activities CNRS IUSTI UMR 7343, Marseille France to India : Collaborators - Nil
146 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research 8. Analysis of Scientific Activities
Collaborative Scientific Research Programme
n year 2014-15, 23 new projects were started Information & Computer and Information Communication Sciences 4% Biotechnology and 45 projects were ongoing under the Technology Life and Health 6% Programme. Environmental 7% Sciences I Sciences 26% 4% During this period, 54 proposals were received and rd MaterialsMaterial ScienceSciences reviewed, of which 23 were recommended in 53 18% th Computer and and 54 Information meetings, a total of 43 projects (26 and 17 projects Earth and Sciences Planetary Sciences 4% meetings of the Scientific Council. In these 4% Pure and Applied Pure and Applied Physics Chemistry 24% review (Figure 2). 7% respectively) were subjected to mid-term and final Figure 3a: Area wise distribution of proposals received New projects Ongoing projects started (23) (exculding those started) (45) Biotechnology Computer and 4% MaterialsMaterial ScienceSciences Information New proposals 13% Sciences received (54) Final Review of Earth and 4% Completed projects Planetary (17) Sciences 4%
Midterm review (26) Life and Health New proposals Sciences Pure and Applied 31% recommended (23) Chemistry 9% Figure 2: Status of CEFIPRA projects supported w.e.f. 1st April Pure and Applied 2014 to 31st March 2015 Physics 35%
The area wise distribution of the proposals Figure 3b: Area wise distribution of proposals recommended received and recommended for support during
indicate, domains of Life and Health Sciences, Pure to account for a higher share of the proposals &the Applied year is Physicsgiven in and figures Materials 3a & 3b. Science As the continue figures received and recommended.
Biotechnology 1
MaterialMaterials Science 2
Earth and Planetary Sciences 1
Pure and Applied Chemistry 3
Pure and Applied Physics 6
Life and Health Sciences 9
Computer and Information Sciences 1
Figure 4 : Area wise distribution of projects Initiated (23)
Annual Report | 2014-15 149 Computational Computer Sciences Life and Health Plasmonics (1) Others (1) Modelling (1) Immunology (1) 6% Sciences Neurobiology (1) Genetics (2)(20 17% Ecogenetics (1) MaterialMaterials SciencesScience Oncology (1) Plant Physiology (1) Earth and Planetary 18%18% Sciences Virology (1) 6% Nanotechnology (3) Agricultural Science Pure and AppliedPure and (1) Physics Applied Optics Astrophysics Physics 35% (2) Pure and Applied 35% (1) Proteomics (1) Chemistry Organic Chemistry Catalysis (1) Micrology (1) 18% (2)
Figure 5: Sub-area wise distribution of projects initiated (23) Figure 6: Area wise distribution of projects completed (17)
New Projects Commenced: A total of 23 new The area wise distribution of the completed projects were initiated during the year. Figure 4 projects is depicted in Figure 6. and Figure 5 depict the area-wise and sub-area wise distribution of these new projects. completed projects have received as many as 473 Ongoing Projects: As on 31st March, 2015, 45 citations.A total ofThe 89 areas publications of Pure & Applied emanated Physics, from Pure 17 projects (excluding new projects started) were & Applied Chemistry and Materials Science (Figure under implementation at different Indian and 7) have a higher share of publications, mostly in French research institutes / universities. reputed peer-reviewed journals such as Journal of Chemical Physics, Journal of Applied Physics, Completed Projects: A total of 17 projects were Journal of Immunology, International Journal of completed during the year. Out of these eight were Heat and Mass Transfer, International Journal of rated as “Excellent” and six were rated as “Very Thermal Sciences, etc. The areas of Pure & Applied Physics, Pure & Applied Chemistry and Life & Good” by the Scientific Council. 28 24
16
11
5 5
Computer Life and Pure and Pure and Earth and MaterialsMaterial Sciences Health Applied Applied Planetary ScienceSciences Sciences Physics Chemistry Sciences Figure 7 : Area wise number of publication emanated (89)
150 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research 219
92 90 65
1 6
Computer Life and Pure and Pure and Earth and MaterialsMaterial Sciences Health Applied Applied Planetary SciencesScience Sciences Physics Chemistry Sciences
Figure 8: Area wise citations received (473)
Health Sciences have received the highest share of Significant Processes Developed Under citations (Figure 8). Completed Projects During the duration of completed projects, 43 Development of two new numerical methods (of Individuals (25 in India & 18 in France were quantum Monte Carlo and exact diagonalization supported through training) comprising of Doctoral • types) to study thermodynamics of frustrated quantum antiferromagnets. (4504-1) (46 from India to France and 47 from France to and Post-Doctoral students. Also 93 mobility/visits fulvene complexes. (4505-1) India) were supported (Figure 9). • Synthesis and reactivity of first metallocene- developed from 17 completed projects were in Straightforward lewis acid catalysed theSome areas of of the Pure significant and Applied knowledge Chemistry, Pure products and transformation of fulvenes to polycyclic Applied Physics, Materials Science, Computational • compounds. (4505-1) Sciences etc. Process for synthesis of highly ordered cobalt
• phthalocyanine thin films on flexible BOPET Human Resource Trained Mobility/Visits
25 46 47 18
In India In France India to France France to India
Figure 9: Outcomes in terms of human resource trained (43) supported and exchange visits (93) under completed projects
Annual Report | 2014-15 151 sheets exhibiting high charge carrier mobility • Development of a passive phase-change (~118 cm2/V-s) selective for NH3 chemi- thermal management platform for future space resistive gas sensing.(4705-2) and terrestrial applications. (4408-1)
Significant Design Developed Under response to APL. (4503-1) Completed Projects: • Technology for in-house evaluation of antibody A Trend for Better Understanding! Design and implementation of an interval constraint solving platform with local/global th th • optimization in C++ and interface to/from to 54 ), the Council has During the last six meetings of the Scientific Council Matlab. (4502-1) evaluated 176 proposals received for funding, of which(SC) of 61 CEFIPRA have been (49 recommended for support. The Design of an optimization-based method to area wise distribution for proposals received vs.
• in one step, instead of the classical two steps with areas of Life and Health Sciences, Pure and Applied backtrackingcombine the (4502-1) design of controllers and prefilters Physicsrecommended & Pure andare givenApplied in figureChemistry 10a haveand 10b. a higher The share of proposals received and recommended. Significant Outcomes Developed Under Completed Projects: Transfer of DNA plasmid vaccine and its evaluation in a mouse model. (4503-1)
Information & Water Pure and Applied Information & Biotechnology Water Pure and Applied Communication 2% Mathematics Communication 3% 3% Mathematics Technology Biotechnology 2% Environmental Technology 3% 5% 4% Sciences 2% 2% Computer and Information Sciences 5% Computer and Environmental MaterialsMaterial SciencesScience Information Sciences Sciences 10%10% 5% 3% MaterialMaterials Sciences Science13% 10% Life and Health Earth and Planetary Sciences Sciences 5% Earth and Planetary 31% Life and Health Sciences Sciences 3% Pure and Applied 30% Chemistry Pure and Applied 12% Chemistry 16% Instrumentation Pure and Applied 1% Pure and Applied Physics Physics 21% 19%
Figure 10a:Area wise distribution for proposals received (176) Figure 10b: Area wise distribution for proposals recommended (161)
152 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Industry Academia Research and Development Programme Six projects initiated in the past were ongoing MaterialMaterials Science at the start of the year 2014-15. The area wise (1) distribution of ongoing projects is given in Figure Agricultural Science (1) 11. One project was initiated under the Industry Academia Research and Development Programme HealthHealth Technology Sciences (1) of CEFIPRA. Three new proposals were received by Catalysis (1) CEFIPRA during the year in the area of Information and Communication Technology and another on Smart Transport Systems. The proposals were Aerospace (1) reviewed and two were recommended for support Information and Communication Technology (1) by the Industrial Research Committee (IRC) in its th th 24 and 25 meetings. One project in the area of Figure 11: Area wise distribution for ongoing projects (6) Engineering Sciences has been initiated while three projects in the areas of Health Sciences, Five new Ph.D/post doc fellows and nine Engineering Sciences and Materials Science were exchange visits have been supported during completed. • the period. Prototype thermal shock resistant containers Significant Outcomes have been developed. New Linkages Developed with Indian and • French Industries •
Non-Core Programmes Under its several non-core programmes, CEFIPRA Engineering Sciences (DST-ANR) continued to be a facilitator for collaborative 7% research in targeted areas, supported by national 22% Neurosciences (DST-ANR) funding agencies like Department of Science and Water Technology (DST-INRA) Technology (DST), Government of India with Water (DST-INRA) 43% French funding agencies like Agency nationale de la 21% Information Communication Science and Technology (DST-Inria-CNRS) recherche (ANR), Institut national de la recherche LifeCardivascular and Health Diseases Sciences (BIRAC -CEFIPRA- 7% agronomique (INRA), Institut national de recherche (BIRAC-CEFIPRA-FrenchFrench Embassy) Embassy en informatique et automatique (Inria) and Centre
Figure 12: Area wise distribution for ongoing projects (6) 12 depicts the area wise distribution of ongoing projectsnational deunder la recherche the Targeted scientifique Programmes (CNRS). Figure with DST (DST-ANR, DST-INRA, DST-Inria-CNRS) and BIRAC-CEFIPRA-French Embassyss.
Annual Report | 2014-15 153 Spatial Aspects of Analysis Activities of CEFIPRA have a broad spatial footprint given ahead capture the spatial hetereogenity of the across the S&T ecosystem and institutional projects supported by CEFIPRA during 2014-15 in landscape of India and France. This gives CEFIPRA terms of geographical distribution of institutions of S&T stakeholders in both countries. The maps these projects. the ability to reach out to a significant proportion in India and France as well as scientific themes of Geographic Distribution of Projects in India Map 1
154 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Thematic Distribution of Projects in India The following three maps capture the spatial Indian institutions in the context of various themes. heterogeneity of CEFIPRA supported projects with
Map 2 Map 3
Maths Maths Physics Physics Chemistry Chemistry Life & Health Life & Health Earth Earth Information Technology Information Technology Water Water Environment Environment Materials Materials Biotechnology Biotechnology Computer Science Computer Science
Map 4
Maths Physics Chemistry Life & Health Earth Information Technology Water Environment Materials Biotechnology Computer Science
Annual Report | 2014-15 155 Geographic Distribution of Projects in France Map 5
156 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Thematic Distribution of Projects in France The following three maps capture the spatial with French institutions in the context of various heterogeneity of CEFIPRA supported projects themes.
Map 6 Map 7
Maths Maths Physics Physics Chemistry Chemistry Life & Health Life & Health Earth Earth Information Technology Information Technology Water Water Environment Environment Materials Materials Biotechnology Biotechnology Computer Science Computer Science
Map 8
Maths Physics Chemistry Life & Health Earth Information Technology Water Environment Materials Biotechnology Computer Science
Annual Report | 2014-15 157 9. Indian and French Organizations 9. Indian and French Organizations
Collaborative Scientific Research Projects Indian Organizations Indian Institutes of Technology 25 Indian Association for the Cultivation of Sciences 1 Indian Institute of Technology 26 Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (Banaras Hindu University) 27 Indian Institute of Science 2 Indian Institute of Technology Bombay 3 Indian Institute of Technology Delhi 28 Indian Institute of Science Education and Research 4 Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences 5 Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur 30 Institute of Mathematical Sciences 29 6 Indian Institute of Technology Madras 31 International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Universities Biotechnology 7 Assam University 32 Inter University Accelerator Centre 8 Bharathidasan University 33 Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Goa University Astrophysics 10 Pondicherry University 34 Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical 119 Shiv Nadar University Education and Research 12 Tezpur University 35 13 Thapar University Research 36 NationalJawaharlal Chemical Nehru Centre Laboratory for Advanced Scientific 14 University of Agricultural Sciences, GKK 37 National Geophysical Research Institute 15 University of Calcutta 38 National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science 16 University of Delhi & Technology 17 University of Hyderabad National Institute of Immunohaematology Other Academic / Research Institutions 40 National Institute of Immunology 39 18 All India Institute of Medical Sciences 41 National Institute of Oceanography Bhabha Atomic Research Centre 42 National Physical Laboratory 20 Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology 19 43 National Remote Sensing Centre 21 Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics 44 Raman Research Institute 22 Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences 45 Tata Institute of Fundamental Research 23 Christian Medical College 46 Translational Health Science and Technology Institute 24 Harish Chandra Research Institute
Industry Academia Research Projects
Indian Organizations / Industries 1 BenchBio Private Limited 7 Indian Institute of Technology Madras 2 Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology 8 International Advanced Research Centre for 3 Ceradecor India Limited Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) 4 Dhvani Research & Development Solutions Namdhari Seeds Private Limited Private Limited 10 National Chemical Laboratory 9 5 Indian Institute of Science 11 Tata Consultancy Services 6 Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
Annual Report | 2014-15 161 Targeted and Innovation Projects Indian Organizations / Industries S. S. Institutions Institutions No. No. 1 All India Institute of Medical Sciences Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur 2 Chennai Mathematical Institute 10 Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 9 3 Curadev Pharma Private Limited 11 Indraprastha Institute of Information 4 GeNext Genomics (GNG) Private Limited Technology, Delhi 12 Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar 5 Indian Institute of Science Bangalore 13 International Institute of Information 6 Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Technology, Hyderabad 7 Indian Institute of Technology Delhi 14 Jadavpur University 8 Indian Institute of Technology Madras 15 Vellore Institute of Technology University
Collaborative Scientific Research Projects French Organizations 1 Commissariat à l’énergie atomique (CEA) 12 Université de Lorraine 2 13 Université de Lyon 3 Institut national de la recherche agronomique 14 Université de Nantes Centre(INRA) national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) 15 Université Paris Diderot 4 Institut national de recherche dédié au 16 Université de Paul Sabatier numérique (Inria) 17 University Pierre and Marie Curie 5 Institut national de la santé et de la recherche 18 Université de Poitiers médicale (INSERM) Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne Universities 20 Université de Rennes 6 Université d’Aix-Marseille 2119 Université de Strasbourg 7 Université de Bordeaux 22 Université de Toulouse 8 Université de Bourgogne Ecole Université de Caen 23 Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris 10 Université de Franche-Comté 24 Ecole Centrale de Lyon 119 Université François-Rabelais 25 Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Rennes
Industry Academia Research Projects French Organizations / Industries 1 Airbus DS 7 Leosphere SAS 2 ARKEMA 8 Observatoire Midi-Pyrénées 3 ASTRIUM-ST 9 Pierre Arquié Céramique Technique (PACT) 4 GEMALTO 10 Universite de Bordeaux 5 INRA 11 Université Lille 6 INSERM 12 Université de Nice
162 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Targeted and Innovation Projects French Organizations / Industries 1 7 SPAN Diagnostics S.A.R.L. 2 Ecole Normale Supérieure de Cachan 8 Universite Aix- Marseille 3 InstitutCentre nationalnational de la recherche agronomique scientifique (CNRS)(INRA) Université de Bordeaux 4 Institut national de recherche dédié au 10 Université de Cergy-Pontoise numérique (Inria) 119 Université Paris Diderot 5 Institut national de la santé et de la 12 Univrsité Paul Sabatier recherche médicale (INSERM) 13 Université Pierre et Marie Curie 6 SAS GENEX
Annual Report | 2014-15 163 10. Mobility & Support to Scientists & Students Under Research Projects 10. Mobility & Support to Scientists & Students Under Research Projects 166 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Mobility of Scientists & Students CEFIPRA supports numerous projects from various domains under its Collaborative Scientific Research Programme and Industry Academia Research and Development Programme. Under these projects, CEFIPRA provide support to concerned scientists and students of India and France for exchange visits. The purpose of such visits is to execute and discuss the necessary aspects of scientific research work related to the project. These visits help in speeding up the collaborative work and also provide exposure to researchers / students. The visits undertaken during the year under these programmes are given below: Mobility of Scientists supported under CEFIPRA Projects April - May 2014
Project Title Name & Institute Affiliation Institute Visited Didier Gourier Mechanisms of New Long-Lasting Goa University, Taleigao Plateau 01 Laboratoire de Chimie de la Luminescence Biomarkers Goa Matière, Chimie ParisTech Raman Research Institute Effect of the Correlations in the Kirone Mallick Bangalore 02 Statics and the Dynamics of CEA-Saclay and Tata Institute of Fundamental Extended Systems Research, Mumbai Mechanisms of Lysine Anne-Laurence Boutillier Acetyltransferase (Kat/Hat) Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit Laboratoire d’Imagerie et de 03 Activation by Small Molecule Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Neursciences Cognitives Activators and use Thereof in Advanced Scientific Research Strasbourg Memory Bangalore Benoit Pier Laboratoire de mécanique des Centre for interdisciplinary Sciences Rotating and Curved Boundary- 04 fluides et d’acoustique, École Tata Institute of Fundamental Layer Instabilities Centrale de Lyon Research, Hyderabad (CNRS-Université de Lyon), Lyon Fabien Alet Department of Theoretical Physics Computational Studies of Frustrated 05 Laboratoire de Physique Théorique Tata Institute of Fundamental Quantum Magnets IRSAMC, Université Paul Sabatier Research, Mumbai
Université François Rabelais Tours Multilingual Word Spotting for Umapada Pal 06 Polytech Tours, Département Degraded Documents Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata Informatique Computer Science lab
Multilingual Word Spotting for Bidyut B. Chaudhuri Université François Rabelais Tours 07 Degraded Documents Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata Polytech Tours
Effect of the Correlations in the Sanjib Sabhapandit Laboratoire de Physique Théorique 08 Statics and the Dynamics of Raman Research Institute et Modèles, Statistiques Extended Systems Bangalore Université Paris Sud, Orsay
D.K. Aswal All Polymer Flexible Gas Sensors 09 Bhabha Atomic Research Center Université Paris Diderot, Paris (Flexi-Sensors) Mumbai
Annual Report | 2014-15 167 Project Title Name & Institute Affiliation Institute Visited
Institut National de la Santé Et de la K. N. Balaji Molecular Mechanisms of Immune Recherche Médicale (INSERM) 10 Indian Institute of Science Evasion by M. Tuberculosis Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers Bangalore Paris
R. Ramesh Influence of the Resorcin(4) Arene School of Chemistry Universite de Strasbourg 11 on the Catalytic Outcomes Bharathidasan University Strasbourg Tiruchirappalli
Dharmendra Singh Optimal Inference in Complex and Centre de recherches, Inria 12 Indian Institute of Technology Turbulent Data Bordeaux Sud-Ouest, France Roorkee, Roorkee
Approximate Rekha P. Kulkarni Solutions of Linear and Non-Linear Institut Camille Jordan 13 Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay Integral Equations with Non-Smooth Universite de Saint Etienne Mumbai Kernels
Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire sur M. K. Sanyal l’Organisation Nanometrique et 14 Interfaces in Complex Fluids Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics Supra moleculaire (LIONS) Kolkata CEA Saclay
Srikanth Srinivasan Arithmetic Circuits Computing Institut Mathematiques de Jussieu 15 Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay Polynomials Paris Mumbai Anti-Factor H Autoantibody Arvind Bagga Centre de Recheche des Cordeliers 16 Associated Hemolytic Uremic All India Institute of Medical Sciences INSERM, Paris Syndrome New Delhi
Samriddhi Sankar Ray Theoretical and Numerical Studies Universite Nice Sophia Antipolis 17 International Centre for Theoretical in Fluids Nice Sciences (ICTS-TIFR), Bangalore
Meena Bhaskar Mahajan Arithmetic Circuits Computing Instituté de Mathématiques de 18 Institute of Mathematical Science Polynomials Jussieu, Paris Chennai Anurag kumar Emerging Strategies for Wireless Universtié de l’Avignon and INRA 19 Department of ECE, Indian Institute Communication Networks Sophia Antipolis of Science, Bangalore Air Pollution Monitoring “Design and Scientific Validation of an Chandra Venkataraman Operational Protocol Allowing Department of Chemical Engineering 20 Real-Time and Dynamic Mapping Leosphere, Orsay Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay of Particulate Pollution Using Mumbai Quantitative Indicators in the Vicinity of Intense Sources” J Sengupta School of Mathematics 21 Analytic Aspect of Modular Forms Universite Paris, Villetaneuse Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai Asoke Kumar Sen Laboratoire de physique des Solides Cometary Grains : Observations and Department of Physics 22 Universite Paris-Sud Simulation Assam University Orsay Silchar
168 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research June - July 2014
Project Title Name and Institution Affiliation Institute Visited
01 Puzzling Properties of Alain Gibaud Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics Ultrathin Polymer Films Laboratoire de Physique de l’Etat Salt Lake, Kolkata Condense, Université du Maine Le Mans
02 Discontinous Galerkin Baskar Sambandam Institut Jean Le Rond d’Alembert Method for Nonlinear Department of Mathematics Université Pierre et Marie Curie Acoustics Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (Paris 6), Paris Mumbai
03 Esynapse Based on Bipin Rajendran Institut des Nanotechnologies de Heterostructures of Dept. of Electrical Engineering Lyon, CNRS, Ecole Centrale de Binary Oxides Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Lyon, Ecully Mumbai
04 Analytic Aspects of Dipendra Prasad Université Paris 13 Modular Forms School of Mathematics Villetaneuse Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai
05 Arithmetic Circuits Hervé Fournier Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay Computing Polynomials Institut Mathematique de Jussieu Mumbai Universite Paris Diderot-Paris 7 Paris
06 Molecular Mechanisms of Jagdeesh Bayry Dept. of Microbiology and Cell Biology Immune Evasion by Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers Indian Institute of Science M. Tuberculosis INSERM, Paris Bangalore
07 Bimetallic Catalysis Jitendra K. Bera Institut Sciences Chimiques de Rennes Involving Ruthenium Department of Chemistry Université de Rennes and Palladium: C-H Indian Institute of Technology Bond Activation/ Kanpur, Kanpur Functionalization and Beyond 08 Real Time Imaging Julien Fade Raman Research Institute Through for Over Long Institut De Physique de Rennes Bangalore Distance (Rtifold) Université de Rennes 1 Campus de Beaulieu Rennes 09 Cenozoic Denudation of M. Jayananda IRD CEREGE Aix Marseille South India Department of Geology Universite, Aix en Provence Centre of Advanced Studies University of Delhi
10 Controlling for Upscaling Pierre Couteron National Remote Sensing Centre Uncertainty in Assessment UMR AMAP (Botanique et Hyderabad of Forest Aboveground bioinformatique de l’Architecture des Biomass in the Western Plantes), Montpellier Ghats of India
Annual Report | 2014-15 169 Project Title Name and Institution Affiliation Institute Visited 11 Extreme QCD in the Rajeev S. Bhalerao Institut de physique théorique LHC Era Department of Theoretical Physics CEA Saclay Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Mumbai
12 Smart Structure Ranjan Ganguli Universitè Paul Sabatier Maintenance Strategies Indian Institute of Science Toulouse Based on Structural Bangalore Health Monitoring Damage Indicators 13 Controlling for Upscaling Raphael Pelissier National Remote Sensing Centre Uncertainty in Assessment UMR AMAP (Botanique et Hyderabad of Forest Aboveground bioinformatique de l’Architecture des Biomass in the Western Plantes), Montpellier Ghats of India 14 Studying the Role of Suvendra Kumar Ray Laboratoire des Interactions Plantes Rpon, the Alternative Dept. of Molecular Biology and Micro-organisms, INRA Sigma Factor, in the Biotechnology, Tezpur University Pathogenicity of R. Assam Solanacearum, the Causal Agent of Bacterial Wilt in Plants 15 Studying the Interactome Ullas Kolthur Seetharam Institut de Pharmacologie et de of Nad-Dependent Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Biologie Structurale, Toulouse Deacetylase Sirt1 in the Mumbai Testis
16 Novel Nano Technological V. Kesavan Universite Paris-Sud 11 Approaches for Treatment Department of Biotechnology Chatenay Malabry of Leishmaniasis Using Indian Institute of Technology-Madras 2- Propylquinoline Chennai
August-September 2014
Project Title Name and institution affiliation Institute visited
Laboratoire de Mathematiques et Hypergeometric Functions: E. K Narayanan Applications de Metz, Université de 01 Harmonic Analysis and Indian Institute of Science Lorraine-Metz,Institut Elie Carton Representation Theory Bangalore Vandeuvre Nancy
Ravi Kumar Deep Structure of the Indian National Geophysical Institut de Physique du Globe 02 Continent Research Institute Paris Hyderabad
R K Chadha Deep Structure of the Indian Institut de Physique du Globe 03 National Geophysical Continent Paris Research Institute, Hyderabad
170 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Project Title Name and institution Affiliation Institute visited
Srinagesh Deep Structure of the Indian National Geophysical Institut de Physique du Globe 04 Continent Research Institute Paris Hyderabad
Trond Saue Correlated Studies of Laboratoire de Chimie et Raman Centre for Atomic Molecular Response Properties of 05 Physique Quantiques- and Optical Science Open-Shell Molecules in the Université de Toulouse, Kolkata Relativistic Framework Toulouse
Eleonore Stutzmann Deep Structure of the Indian National Geophysical Research 06 Institut de Physique du Globe Continent Institute Hyderabad Paris
Konstantin Petrov HPC - SED - Inria - Saclay - Tata Institute of Fundamental 07 Extreme Qcd in the Lhc Era Ile-de-France Bâtiment Alan Research Mumbai Turing, Palaiseau
Cedric Delevoye Control of Melanosome Structure et Compartiments Indian Institute of Science 08 Biogenesis By Small Gt Membranaires Institut Curie Bangalore Pases Paris
Narendra Tuteja Biochimie et Physiologie International Centre for 09 Nutrient Sensing in Plants Moléculaire des Plantes CNRS/INRA/ Genetic Engineering and SupAgro/UMII Montpellier Biotechnology, New Delhi
Hema Ramachandran Centre d’Etude Spatiale des Probing Dense Matter and 10 Raman Research Institute Rayonnements,CNRS Strong Gravity Bangalore Toulouse
Arun Kumar Global Transcriptomics of Sex Centre de Neurosciences de Paris 11 Centre for DNA Fingerprinting Specific Splicing Sud Université Paris-Sud, Orsay and Diagnostics, Hyderabad
CNRS - UPR 9080 Pinak Chakrabarti Laboratoire de Biochimie Théorique Analysis of Protein Flexibility 12 Bose Institute Institut de Biologie Physico in Biological Recognition Kolkata Chimique Paris
Annual Report | 2014-15 171 Project Title Name and institution Affiliation Institute visited
N Purnachandra Rao Deep Structure of the Indian National Geophysical Institut de Physique du Globe 13 Continent Research Institute Paris Hyderabad
Financial Inclusion Based Veni Madhavan Upon Rural Mobiquitous Universite de Nice 14 Indian Institute of Science Services Technological Nice Bangalore Platform
Design and Synthesis University of Strasbourg,UMR of New C1- Symmetric Pradeep Kumar 7509/CNRS/ECPM – Chimie Biaryl-Based Ligands and 15 National Chemical Laboratory Moléculaire ECPM25 Rue Catalysts and their Evaluation Pune Becquerel in Asymmetric Catalytic Strasbourg Alsace Reactions
Thermo-Hydrodynamics Institut National des Sciences Sameer Khandekar of Phase-Change Induced Appliquées de Lyon (INSA Lyon) 16 Indian Institute of Technology Oscillating Taylor Bubble Centre de Thermique de Lyon Kanpur Flows Villeurbanne, Lyon
October - December 2014
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Andre Del Guerzo Supra Molecular Approach to Institut des Sciences Moléculaires Indian Institute of Science 01 Composite Materials for Advanced Université de Bordeaux Bangalore Technologies Bordeaux
Bimetallic Catalysis Involving Jean François Soulé Ruthenium and Palladium: C-H Indian Institute of 02 Universite de Rennes Bond Activation/Functionalization Technology Kanpur Rennes and Beyond
Jean-Yves Ollitrault Tata Institute of 03 Extreme Qcd in the Lhc Era Institut de Physique Théoriques Fundamental Research Gif-sur-Yvette Mumbai
Anti Factor H Autoantibody Marie-Agnes Dragon-Durey All India Institute of 04 Associated Hemolytic Uremic Laboratoire d’Immunologie Medical Sciences Syndrome INSERM, Paris New Delhi
David Semeril Influence of the Resorcin[4]Arene Laboratoire de Chimie Inorganique Bharathidasan University 05 on the Catalytic Outcomes Moleculaire et catalyse Tiruchirappalli Strasbourg
172 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Stephane Peigne Tata Institute of Laboratoire de physique 06 Extreme Qcd in the Lhc Era Fundamental Research subatomique et des technologies Mumbai associées, Nantes
Yacine Graba Centre for Cellular and Integrating Hox and Chromatin Institute for Developmental Biology 07 Molecular Biology Mediated Transcriptional Regulation Marseille Luminy, University of Hyderabad Marseille, Marseille
Institut des Sciences Supra Molecular Approach to Udai Maitra Moléculaires, 08 Composite Materials for Advanced Indian Institute of Science Université Bordeaux 1 Technologies Bangalore Talence
Kinetics and Spectroscopy in Elangannan Arunan Universite de Rennes 09 Extreme Environments: Applications Indian Institute of Science Rennes to Astrophysics and Astrochemistry Bangalore
Kinetics and Spectroscopy in Jayaram Vishakantaiah Universite de Rennes 10 Extreme Environments: Applications Indian Institute of Science Rennes to Astrophysics and Astrochemistry Bangalore
Molybdenum-Containing Enzymes: Olga Iranzo Casanova Indian Association for 11 Bioinspired Peptidic Catalysts for Institut des Sciences Moléculaires Cultivation of Science Co2 Reduction de Marseille, Marseille Kolkata
Doris Barboni Survey of Soil-Si Pools and Centre Européen de Recherche et University of Contribution of Si Fertilization in 12 d’Enseignement des Géosciences de Agricultural Sciences A Sustainable Rice Cultivation in l’Environnement Bangalore South India Aix-Marseille Université
Survey of Soil-Si Pools and Catherine Keller University of Contribution of Si Fertilization in 13 CEREGE, UMR 7730:CNRS/Aix- Agricultural Sciences A Sustainable Rice Cultivation in Marseille Université, Marseille Bangalore South India
Jerome Vialard Tropical Cyclones in the Bay of National Institute of Laboratoire d’Océanographie et de 14 Bengal: Oceanic Response and Oceanography Climatologie: Experimentation et Air-Sea Interactions Goa Analyses Numériques
Marius Réglier Molybdenum-Containing Enzymes: Indian Association for Institut des Sciences Moléculaires 15 Bioinspired Peptidic Catalysts for Cultivation of Science de Marseille Aix-Marseille Co2 Reduction Kolkata Université, Marseille, France
Annual Report | 2014-15 173 January - February 2015
Project Title Name | Institutional Affiliation Institution Visited
Umapada Pal Université François Multilingual Word Spotting Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition, 01 Rabelais Tours, Polytech for Degraded Documents Indian Statistical Institute Tours Kolkata
Tropical Cyclones in the Jerome Vialard National Institute of Bay of Bengal: Oceanic Laboratoired’Océanographie et de 02 Oceanography Response and Air-Sea Climatologie: Experimentation et Analyses Goa Interactions Numériques, Paris
Mechanisms of Lysine Anne Laurence Boutillier Jawaharlal Nehru Centre Acetyltransferase (Kat/ Faculté de Psychologie, for Advanced Scientific 03 Hat) Activation by Small Laboratoired’Imagerie et de Research Molecule Activators and use NeursciencesCognitives, Director of Bangalore Thereof in Memory Research CNRS, Strasbourg
Interstellar and Intergalactic Patrick Petitjean Inter University Centre Medium at High Redshift: 04 Institutd’Astrophysique de Paris, CNRS for Astronomy & Reservoir for Galaxy Paris Astrophysics, Pune Formation
Fraissinet Tachet Laurence Dept. of Biotechnology Gene Resources from 05 EcologieMicrobienne, Université Lyon1 Thapar University Polluted Soils CNRS, Villeurbanne Patiala
National Centre for Alain Omont Distant Obscured Galaxies Radio Astrophysics, Tata 06 Université Paris Sud XI from Gmrt and Herschel Institute of Fundamental Institutd’ Astrophysique Spatiale, Orsay Research, Pune
Tropical Cyclones in the Christian Ethe National Institute Bay of Bengal: Oceanic Laboratoired’Océanographie et de 07 of Oceanography Response and Air-Sea Climatologie: Experimentation et Analyses Goa Interactions Numériques, Paris
Studying the Role of Rpon, Stephane Genin Department of the Alternative Sigma Factor, Laboratoire des Interactions Plantes Molecular Biology and 08 in the Pathogenicity of R. Micro-organisms, INRA, CNRS Biotechnology Solanacearum, the Causal Castanet Tolosan Tezpur University Assam Agent of Bacterial Wilt in Plants
174 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Project Title Name | Institutional Affiliation Institution Visited
Solid State and High Anisotropy Molecular Jean Pascal Sutter Structural Chemistry 09 Magnets: Synthesis & Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, Unit, Indian Institute of Modelling CNRS, Toulouse Science, Bangalore
The Immuno-Psychiatry Ravi Philip Rajkumar in South India Study (Ips): Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate University of Paris 10 Immunogenetic and Immuno- Medical Education And Research, Diderot, Paris Phenotype Characterization of Puducherry Major Psychoses
March - April 2015
Project Title Name | Institutional Affiliation Institution Visited
01 Epigenetics of transcription by Purnima Bhargava Equipe Organization et RNA polymerase III Centre for Cellular & Molecular Dynamique Nucleaire Biology, Hyderabad Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse
02 Chemistry and application Sundergopal Ghosh UMR 6226 CNRS of Metallasila and Indian Institute of Technology-Madras Université de Rennes Metallagermaboranes derived Chennai Rennes from group 14 unsaturated organic substrates
03 Research and Development of Supratik Mukhopadhyay CEA-Saclay IRFU Micromegas Detector and related Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics Gif sur Yvette devices Kolkata
04 Research and Development of Nayana Majumdar CEA-Saclay IRFU Micromegas Detector and related Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics Gif sur Yvette devices Kolkata
05 Slow Highly charged Ion C. P. Safvan Centre de Recherche sur les Ions, molecule collisions Inter University Accelerator Centre les Matériaux et la Photonique New Delhi Caen
06 Two dimensional electron gas Anjana Dogra Laboratoire de Physique physics in oxide heterostructures National Physical Laboratory et d’Etude des Matériaux New Delhi ESPCI, Paris
Annual Report | 2014-15 175 Project Title Name | Institutional Affiliation Institution Visited
07 Correlated studies of response Debashis Mukherjee Laboratoire de Chimie properties of Open-shell Indian Association for the et Physique Quantiques molecules in the relativistic Cultivation of Sciences Université de Toulouse 3 Framework Jadavpur (Paul Sabatier) Toulouse
08 All polymer flexible gas sensors Mohamed Chehimi Technical Physics Division (flexi sensors) Organisation et Dynamique des Bhabha Atomic Research Systèmes Centre Université Paris Diderot-CNRS Mumbai Paris
09 Studying the Role of rpoN, Stephane Genin Department of Molecular the Alternative Sigma Factor, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biology & Biotechnology in Pathogenicity of R. Interactions Plantes Micro- Tezpur University solanacearum organisms Assam Castanet Tolosan
10 High Anisotropy Molecular Jean Pascal Sutter Indian Institute of Science Magnets: Synthesis & Modelling Laboratoire de Chimie de Bangalore Coordination- Toulouse
11 Collective Migration in the Fly Angela Giangrande National Centre for Nervous System Institut de Génétique et de Biological Sciences Biologie Moléculaire e Cellulaire Bangalore Stransbourg
12 Monte Carlo and Learning Konstantin Avratchenkov Indian Institute of Schemes for Network Analytics Inria Sophia Antipolis - Technology Méditerranée, Sophia Antipolis Mumbai
176 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Mobility of Students supported by CEFIPRA April - May 2014
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Kabilan Mani Atmosphere and Earth Laboratorie Microorganisms Genome et 01 BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Sciences Environment Campus, Goa
Karan Nathwani Dept. of Electrical Engineering Signal & Image processing Department, 02 Electrical Engineering Indian Institute of Technology Institut Mines-Telecom, Paris Kanpur
N. Natarajan UMR 7177 Institut de Chimie School of Chemistry 03 Chemistry Universite de Strasbourg Barathidasan University Strasbourg Tiruchirappalli
Krishna Mohan K. S Laoratoired’ Oceanographie 04 Atmospheric Sciences National Institute of Experimentation et Approaoches Oceanography, Goa Numeriques, Paris
Raman Sankaran Department of Computer Laboratoireď Informatiruedeĺ Ecole 05 Computer Science Science & Automation Normale Superieure, Paris Indian Institute of Science Bangalore
Ghania Ramdani Department of Physics 06 Life Sciences Paris Descartes University Indian Institute of Science Paris Bangalore
UPMC, LATMOS, Guyancourt Saumyadeep Roy Choudhury 07 Physics France and Univ. Paris-Sud Assam University, Silchar LPS, Orsay
Debarghya Banerjee Observatoire de la Cote d'Azur 08 Physics Indian Institute of Science Nice Bangalore
Annual Report | 2014-15 177 June - July 2014
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Akshay Rane 01 Mathematics Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay Jean Monnet universite of Saint Etienne Mumbai
Université Paris Diderot & Institut de Mohd Amir Physique du Globe de Paris, Laboratoire de 02 Earth Science Indian Institute of Technology dynamique des fluides Géologiques Kanpur Paris
Simon Donck Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay 03 Chemical Sciences Université Paris Sud, Paris Mumbai
August - September 2014
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Shaon Sahoo INAC/SPSMS/GT, CEA Grenoble 01 Pure and Applied physics Indian Institute of Science Grenoble Bangalore
Laboratoire de Physique et Chimie Suhail Usmani des Nano-Objets, Institut National des 02 Pure and Applied physics University of Delhi Sciences Appliquees Toulouse Delhi Toulouse
Balaji Sundarraman Université de Strasbourg Pure and Applied 03 Bharathidasan University Institut de Chimie de Strasbourg Chemistry Tiruchirapalli Alsace
Institut Européen des Membranes, UMR Abhijeet Lale 5635-CNRS/ENSCM/UM2 Université 04 Materials Sciences Indian Institute of Technology-Madras Montpellier 2 Chennai Montpellier
Vibha Saxena Pure and Applied 05 Bhabha Atomic Research Centre Universite Paris Diderot, Paris Chemistry Mumbai
178 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Manjunatha S V Information and Universite de Nice 06 Indian Institute of Science Technology Nice Bangalore
Apurba Ranjan Sahoo Institut des Sciences Chimiques Pure and Applied National Institute of Science 07 de Rennes – Organométalliques : Chemistry Education and Research Matériaux et Catalyse, Rennes Bhubaneshwar
October - December 2014
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Rahul Kumar Laboratoire des Interactions 01 Biotechnology Tezpur University Plantes Micro-organisms Assam Castanet Tolosan
Sunchu Prabhakar Ecole Nationale Supérieure de 02 Glycochemical Biology Indian Institute of Chemical Technology Chimie de Rennes Hyderabad Rennes
Aparna Sundaresan INSERM Saint Louis Hospital Life and Health Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate 03 University of Paris, Sciences Medical Education & Research Paris-Diderot, Paris Puducherry
Institut des Nanotechnologies de Computer and Saurabh Nagar Lyon 04 Information Sciences & Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay Ecole Centrale de Lyon Materials Science Mumbai Ecully
Bharti Thakur Universite de Lyon1 05 Environmental Sciences Thapar University Villeurbanne Patiala
Harsh Purohit Laboratoire d’Informatique de 06 Computer Science Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay Nantes-Atlantique, Université de Mumbai Nantes, Nantes
Tridib Sadhu Pure and Applied Institut de Physique Théorique 07 Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Physics Gif-sur-Yvette Mumbai
Annual Report | 2014-15 179 January - February 2015
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Nimesh Shah Pure and Applied CEA-Saclay 01 Indian Institute of Technology Chemistry Gif sur yvette Bombay, Mumbai
UMR 787 INSERM/UPMC, Swati Dudhal Faculté de Médecine, Groupe 02 Life and Health Sciences Tata Institute of Fundamental Hospitalier Pitié- Salpêtrière, Research, Mumbai Paris
Institut des Sciences Mitasree Maity Pure and Applied Moléculaires Université 03 Indian Institute of Science Chemistry Bordeaux 1 Bangalore CNRS UMR 5255, Bordeaux
Dhruti Patwardhan Hôpital Robert Debre 04 Life and Health Sciences Indian Institute of Science INSERM U 676, Paris Bangalore
Abhishake Mondol Pure and Applied Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences CRPP, UPR 8641 05 Chemistry Tata Institute of Fundamental Research University Bordeaux, Bordeaux Mumbai
Supriya Khedkar UMR 7238 CNRS National Centre for 06 Life and Health Sciences University Pierre and Marie Biological Sciences Curie Paris Bangalore
March - April 2015
Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Sandeep Reddy Laboratoire de Physique Statistique Pure and applied 01 Indian Institute of Technology- Ecole Normale Supérieure Physics Kanpur Kanpur Paris
Vishwanath Shukla Laboratoire de Physique Statistique Pure and applied 02 Indian Institute of Technology- Ecole Normale Supérieure Physics Kanpur Kanpur Paris
Sharon Priya Gnansekhar Département de Physique Moléculaire Pure and Applied Dept. of Inorganic & Physical Chemistry UMR 6251 CNRS- 03 Chemistry Indian Institute of Science Université de Rennes 1 Bangalore Rennes
180 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Domain Name & Institute Institute Visited
Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Carnot Uthayakumar Pure and Applied de Bourgogne, UMR 6303 CNRS, 04 Pondicherry University Physics Université de Bourgogne, F-21078 Puducherry DIJON
Laboratoire de Chimie et Sangita Sen Pure and Applied Physique Quantiques 05 Raman Centre for Atomic, Molecular, Chemistry Université de Toulouse 3 (Paul Sabatier) Optical Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata Toulouse
Mobility of SCIENTISTS SUPPORTED UNDER DST-INRA TARGETED PROGRAMME
Project Title Name | Institutional Affiliation Institution Visited
Martine Guerif Adaptation of Irrigated Agriculture to INRA / UMR 1114 EMMAH Indian Institute of Science 01 Climate Change 84914 Bangalore AVIGNON
Samuel Buis Adaptation of Irrigated Indian Institute of Science 02 INRA / UMR 1114 EMMAH Agriculture to Climate Change Bangalore AVIGNON
Patrick Durand Adaptation of Irrigated Agriculture to Indian Institute of Science 03 Institut National de la Recherche Climate Change Bangalore Agronomique, Rennes
Eric Casellas Adaptation of Irrigated Agriculture to Indian Institute of Science 04 Institut National de la Recherche Climate Change Bangalore Agronomiqu,Toulouse
Hélène Raynal Adaptation of Irrigated Agriculture to Indian Institute of Science 05 Institut National de la Recherche Climate Change Bangalore Agronomique, Toulouse
Annual Report | 2014-15 181 11. Annual Accounts 11. Annual Accounts
Financial Report for FY 2014-15 CEFIPRA receives grants-in-aid from the i) Indian and French Governments annually. ii) Industry Academia Research and Scientific Research Programme The nodal agency on the Indian side is the Development Programme Ministry of Science and Technology and on the French side is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs iii) Seminars/Workshops and International Development. The grants- iv) Others (SGRI, ESONN etc.) in-aid are released based on the budgetary projections made by the Centre and duly During the year 2014-15, Rs.125.00 million approved by the Governing Body of the Centre. (Euro 1.58 million) and Rs. 124.41 million (Euro 1.55 million) grants-in-aid were received (a) Core Programmes from Government of India & Government of The grants-in-aid received from both the France respectively for the core programmes. governments are utilized towards expenditure The details of fund position for the last three on the following core programmes of the years under the core programmes are given Centre: below in the Table 1.
Table 1 (million Rs.) Fund Position: grants-in-aid received from Government of India & Government of France for core programmes during the financial years 2012-2013, 2013-2014 & 2014-2015
Financial Year Grant-in-aid received from Govt. of India Grant-in-aid received from Govt. of France Total Funds Grant received C/F from last Grant received available C/F from last year during the year year during the year 288.03 2014-15 2.00 125.00 36.62 124.41 (Euro 3.59 million) 279.83 2013-14 12.60 110.00 56.39 100.84 (Euro 4.02 million) 286.16 2012-13 38.46 82.73 52.21 112.76 (Euro 4.19 million)
2014-15. An amount of Rs. 178.42 million twentyDuring three the proposals year 2014-15, were recommended fifty four new at research projects during the year. scientific research proposals were received and (Euro 2.25 million) was spent on scientific an estimated cost of Rs. 383.72 million (Euro ii) Rs. 13.31 million (Euro 0.17 million) was 4.80 million). As on March 31, 2015, sixty eight spent on the Industry Academia Research projects were under implementation. These and Development Programme during the include twenty three new projects which were
iii) Seminars and workshops have always been expenditure incurred during the year towards financial year. corestarted activities during arethe givenfinancial below: year. The details of used as a platform for enabling interactions i) The core expenditure of the Centre the two countries. During the year, eight seminars/workshopsbetween the scientific were communities supported by of Programme has remained more or less the Centre at a cost of Rs. 17.18 million towards Collaborative Scientific Research steady between 65 to 70% in the year (Euro 0.22 million).
Annual Report | 2014-15 185 iv) In the expanded mandate of CEFIPRA being implemented by the University of beyond its 25 years, the Centre initiated Joseph Fourier, Grenoble. programme of Public Private Partnership vi) Rest of the expenses of Rs. 36.47 million (PPP) with Saint Gobain Research India (Euro 0.45 million) are for expense on (SGRI) Ltd. During the year, CEFIPRA launched its CEFIPRA-SGRI Programme Council and Industrial Research Committee through PPP mode and an amount of Rs. asmeetings well as running of Governing expenses. Body, Scientific 4.30 million (Euro 0.06 million) was spent. The details of the expenditure incurred by the v) Centre during the Financial Year for the core million (Euro 0.10 million) included Rs. 2.75General million scientific (Euro expenses0.03 million) of Rs.towards 7.73 programmes, under various budget heads are the ESONN programme for supporting the given in the Table 2 and Figure 13. A comparison participation of Indian doctoral students to with the previous two years has also been provided. the prestigious European School of Nano- The details of funds position and expenditure of sciences and Nano-technologies-ESONN core programmes are given in Figure 14. (million Rs./Euro) Table 2 Expenditure incurred for the core programmes during the financial years 2012-2013, 2013-2014 & 2014-2015 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15
Expenditure % of Expenditure Expenditure % of Budgetary Components % of total Rs. total Rs. Rs. total Scientific Research 144.20 165.84 178.42 1. 66.40% 68.75% 69.41% Projects (2.11 M Euro) (2.38 M Euro) (2.25 M Euro) Industrial Research 18.57 10.30 13.31 2. 8.55% 4.27% 5.18% Projects (0.27 M Euro) (0.14 M Euro) (0.17 M Euro) 17.91 22.61 17.18 3. Seminars & Workshops 8.25% 9.37% 6.68% (0.26 M Euro) (0.35 M Euro) (0.22 M Euro) PPP Programme (SGRI 4.30 4. - - 1.67% Projects) (0.06 M Euro)
General Scientific Expenses (activities like publication of research papers, short 3.89 8.85 7.73 5. 1.79% 3.67% 3.01% visits of scientists other (0.06 M Euro) (0.13 M Euro) (0.10 M Euro) than project visits, ESONN Programme etc.) Governing Body, Industrial 13.19 12.82 11.13 6. Research Committee & 6.07% 5.32% 4.33% (0.19 M Euro) (0.18 M Euro) (0.14 M Euro) Scientific Council meetings Running expenses of the 19.41 20.79 25.34 * 7. Centre (Salaries, Office 8.94% 8.62% 9.72% (0.28 M Euro) (0.29 M Euro) (0.31 M Euro) maintenance &Travel) 217.17 241.21 257.41 (3.17 M Euro) (3.47 M Euro) @ (3.25 M Euro) TOTAL @ 1 Euro = Rs. 1 Euro = Rs. @ 1 Euro = 68.3403 69.5438 Rs. 79.2000
*1. renovation of the Centre. Excludes expenses of Rs. 7.06 million (Euro 85.984) in FY 2014-15 incurred towards *2. Increase due to upgradation of communication and leased line for internet, increase in legal and other expenses and liability provision for expenses made due to change over to mercantile system.
186 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Figure 13 Annual Expenditure Over the Years - Core Programmes (Rs. in millions) Figure 13 (million Rs.) Annual Expenditure Over the Years - Core Programmes
300.00 257.41 241.21
217.17 250.00 25.34 20.79 11.13 12.82 19.41 29.21 200.00 31.46 13.19 13.31 21.80 10.30 18.57 150.00
100.00 165.84 178.42 144.20
50.00
0.00 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15
Projects Industry Seminars etc. GB, SC & IRC Running Exp.
Figure 14 Figure 14 (million Rs./Euro) Fund Position vs Expenditure - CoreFund ProgrammesPosition vs Expenditure - Core Programmes (Rs.\Euro in millions) 350 Rs. 286.16 Rs. 279.83 Rs. 288.03 (Euro 4.19) (Euro 4.02) (Euro 3.59) 300 Rs. 257.41 Rs. 241.21 Rs. 217.17 (Euro 3.25) (Euro 3.17) (Euro 3.47) 250
200
150
100
50
0 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15
C/F Balance Grant Government of India Grant Government of France Expenditure
Annual Report | 2014-15 187 (b) Non-Core Programmes As per earlier directives of the Governing Body various organizations from India and France. of CEFIPRA, the Centre has initiated its activities The details of fund position and expenditure for expansion beyond the core programmes incurred for the non-core programmes during Table 3 programmes, which are being funded by & Figure 15. and has undertaken a number of new scientific the financial year 2014-15 are given in
(million Rs./Euro) Table 3 Non Core Programmes: Fund Position & Expenditure incurred during FY 2014-15
Total Received during the Expenditure during Total Fund Balance C/F year the year Available Expen- Available balance diture Indian French during the Indian French (a-b) (b) Side Side year (a) Side Side
IFCAM 2.51 5.14 3.46 11.11 6.68 2.06 8.74 2.37 1 (0.039 (0.065 (0.042 (0.146 (0.084 (0.027 (0.111 (0.035 (DST-CNRS) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
RAMAN-CHARPAK FELLOWSHIP 2.17 5.26 9.05 16.48 4.62 4.26 8.88 7.60 2 (0.055 (0.064 (0.110 (0.229 (0.060 (0.055 (0.115 (0.114 (DST-FR. M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) Embassy)
DST-INRA 2.16 4.11 6.27 0.68 0.68 5.59 3 - (0.042 (0.050 (0.092 (0.008 - (0.008 (0.084 PROJECTS M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
6.61 6.61 6.51 0.05 6.56 DST-Inria-CNRS 0.05 4 - (0.080 - (0.080 (0.079 (0.001 (0.080 (-) PROJECTS M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
DST-ANR 0.05 5.13 5.18 4.76 0.08 4.84 0.34 5 (0.003 (0.065 - (0.068 (0.062 (0.001 (0.063 (0.005 PROJECTS M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
BIRAC-FR. 7.79 4.40 12.19 2.25 1.80 4.05 8.14 6 EMBASSY (0.116 (0.057 - (0.173 (0.029 (0.023 (0.052 (0.121 PROJECTS M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
FRENCH 3.75 15.66 19.41 4.81 0.58 5.39 14.02 7 (0.083 - (0.192 (0.275 (0.059 (0.007 (0.066 (0.209 EMBASSY (SST) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
16.27 28.70 32.28 77.25 30.31 8.83 39.14 38.11 TOTAL (0.296 (0.373 (0.394 (1.063 (0.381 (0.114 (0.495 (0.568 M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro) M Euro)
188 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Figure 15 Fund Position vs Expenditure - Non Core Programmes Figure 15 and French Embassy, SST (million Rs./Euro) Fund Position vs Expenditure Non Core Programmes(Rs.\Euro and in millions) French Embassy, SST Rs. 77.25 (Euro 1.06) 80.00
70.00 Rs. 55.72 (Euro 0.80) 60.00
50.00 Rs. 34.65 Rs. 36.00 Rs. 39.14 (Euro 0.51) (Euo 0.52) (Euro 0.50) 40.00
30.00 Rs. 14.15 (Euro 0.21) 20.00
10.00
- 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15
C/F Balance Grant - Government of India Grant - Government of France Grant - French Embassy, SST Expenditure
Financial Audit The statutory audit of the accounts of the For presentation of consolidated accounts, Centre was carried out by M/s. SSAS & revenue expenditure of Euro transactions in Associates, Chartered Accountants, D-147, Receipt & Payment and Income & Expenditure Pushpanjali Enclave, Pitampura, Delhi 110034. accounts are converted to INR and vice-versa The Auditors’ Report with its attachments viz. Receipt & Payment Account, Income & working day of each quarter) as declared by Expenditure Account and Balance Sheet in RBIon the from basis time of quarterlyto time. conversionWhereas, the rate Assets (first terms of INR and Euro are given in the following & Liabilities have been converted from Euro pages. The accounts have been separately to INR and vice-versa at the exchange rate drawn in respect to INR and Euro on the basis prescribed by RBI on the date of Balance Sheet, of transactions made in both the currencies. i.e. 31.03.2015.
Annual Report | 2014-15 189 Annual Accounts for FY 2014-15 The audited accounts for the year ended 31.03.2015 are comprising of the following: Report of the Auditor Consolidated Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure Account and Receipt & Payment Account (INR version) • Consolidated Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure Account and Receipt & Payment Account (EURO version) • Stand-alone Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure Account and Receipt & Payment Account (INR) • Stand-alone Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure Account and Receipt & Payment Account (EURO) • Policies and Notes to Accounts to Balance Sheet and Income & Expenditure Account • Receipt & Payment Account in respect of IFCPAR Gratuity Fund • Receipt & Payment Account in respect of IFCPAR General Provident Fund • This is based on the accounting practices in India, and has taken into consideration, the requirements of the • Governments of India & France as per the norms of IFCPAR/CEFIPRA.
190 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Accounts for FY 2014-15
Annual Report | 2014-15 191 192 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 193 194 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 195 196 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 197 198 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 199 200 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 201 202 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 203 204 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 205 206 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 207 208 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 209 210 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 211 212 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 213 214 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 215 216 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 217 218 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 219 220 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 221 222 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 223 224 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 225 226 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 227 228 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 229 230 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 231 232 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 233 234 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 235 236 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 237 238 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 239 240 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 241 242 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Annual Report | 2014-15 243 244 Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research Notes Notes Notes Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (IFCPAR/CEFIPRA) is a model for international collaborative research in advanced areas of Science & Technology. The Centre was established in 1987 being supported by Department of Science & Technology, Government of India and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development, Government of France. CEFIPRA is actively involved in supporting Indo-French Science, Technology & Innovation system through various activities. Scientific Collaborative Research Programme focuses on academia-to-academia collaborations between Indian and French academic collaborators in various domains. Industry Academia Research & Development Programme emphasizes to develop the linkage between Industry and Academia from France and India. Dedicated mobility support programmes of CEFIPRA provide exposure to young researchers of the working, social and cultural environment of the partnering country. Targeted Programmes of CEFIPRA provide platform for Indian and French National Funding Agencies to implement programmes for specific areas. Innovation programmes through PPP mode, are the programmes where industries join hands with CEFIPRA as a funding partner for supporting R & D in defined priority areas.
For further information please contact: Director Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research 5B, Ground Floor, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110 003 INDIA
Direct: +91-11 -24682252, PBX:| +91 -11 -24682251 /2463 3567/4352 6261 Fax: +91 -11-24648632 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.cefipra.org