ISSN 0409-7467 CSIRCSIR NEWSNEWS Progress, Promise and Prospects

VOL 61 NO 17 & 18 SEPTEMBER 2011

CONTENTS

CMERI Developed AUV-150 Ushers in a New Era in Underwater Robotic Research

NEIST organized National Seminar on, Plants in Diabetes

NGRI Organizes International Workshop on, Deep Scientific Drilling to Study Reservoir Triggered Earthquakes at Koyna, India

Golden Jubilee Lecture Series Held at NEIST, Jorhat

CIMAP Bags Krishi Sansthan Samman 2011 Award

website: http://www.csir.res.in R&D HIGHLIGHTS further complicated by the presence of significant surface currents, which resulted in considerable drift after the deployment of the AUV at sea, where it was to perform a set of seven operational tests. Two functional tests comprising two functional soak tests, besides launching, retrieval and tracking system deployment were needed to be carried out, followed by five sub-sea tests targeted towards the fulfillment of specified depth The CMERI AUV team posing beside the system qualifications and overall system functionality. and leak, withstanding at various DVL, Depth sensor and Altim These tests commenced on 13 July depths. exhibited functional consistency and 2011. From July 13 to July 16 the integrity. diving depth of the AUV-150 was  Depth corrections could be carried increased in stages, when it could reach out with an accuracy of  Thrusters were operational. Efforts consecutive depths of 35.79m, 0.1~0.7 m. were made to keep AUV-150 in 79.96 m and 119.95 m, all well within  Specified depth of 150 m was position at various depths and the estimated time in spite of the adverse achieved as ensured from relevant perform surge operations with weather conditions. Finally, on 17 July sensor data. heading corrections to follow a 2011 AUV-150 reached a depth of predefined mission. 150 m.  Significant underwater tracking was done with USBL Positioning  Minor problems were faced in Different tests were carried out, recording video frames from the which are summarized as follows: System and acoustic communication whenever AUV-150 was within underwater camera attached with  Endurance in extreme rough sea the acoustic range, thereby reflecting AUV-150. environments (with recorded sea- various significant mission  Underwater terrain data was logged states of 4 and above) could not be parameters, and further verifying the successfully by Side Scan SONAR. ascertained. Surface operations success of sub-sea operations. Data logging from the Forward were almost impossible due to high The presence of strong sub-sea Looking SONAR (FLS) was also sea states and presence of high currents, however, kept AUV-150 successful, as verified from mission surface waves. out of its acoustic ranges most of log files.  AUV-150 suffered from the time. The successful sea trial of considerable drifts due to the  Satisfactory CTD profiling could be AUV-150 marked a momentous entry into the annals of robotic research in presence of high surface/sub-sea performed resulting in good India and marked the beginning of a currents. observations for variations in more ambitious underwater robotic conductivity, salinity and  Sub-sea pressure hulls did not programme for venturing to 3000 m of temperature at different depths. spring any leakage. AUV-150 ocean depth, to be taken up during the exhibited considerable roll stability  On-board sensors like PHINS, 12th Five Year Plan period.

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IIP, Dehradun Excels in Pinch Analysis Pinch Technology: A Tool for Energy Conservation The key to maximizing energy efficiency is in capturing and  To help reduce local environmental emission reusing of waste heat within the processes and total sites,  Update or modify process flow diagrams cutting the need for additional heating and cooling, thereby  Determine opportunities for Combined Heat and Power eliminating some equipment as well as savings in hot and cold (CHP) generation utilities. Pinch analysis is a systematic procedure, based on fundamental thermodynamic principles (First and Second Law Application Areas of Thermodynamics), that guarantees finding the best possible Pinch analysis has been successfully used across the solution. The prime objectives of pinch analysis are to achieve full spectrum of chemical process industries, namely, Oil financial saving and green environment by better process heat refining; Petrochemicals; Fertilizers and Pesticides; Polymers integration. This is achieved by maximizing the process-to- and Fibres; Pulp and Paper; Food Processing and Distilleries process heat recovery and reducing the external utility load. and Breweries. In any pinch analysis problem, a well-defined pinch analysis procedure (Table:1) is followed. Additional activities such as re-simulation and data modification are required as the analysis proceeds.

Table 1: Steps of Pinch Analysis  Data extraction  Data consistency check (software, simulations, practical experiences)  Selection of ΔT min. value based on experience/general practice  Generation of Composite Curves (Fig.1)  Determining of optimum ΔT min. using ΔT min. vs Cost Figure 1: Hot and Cold Composite Curves Diagram (Fig.2)  Generation of final Composite Curve  Plus-minus Principal Applications Composite Curves are used to estimate the minimum  Generation of Grand Composite Curve (Fig.3) energy (hot & cold utilities), area and number of heat  Heat Exchanger Network exchanger units required.  Utility placement and optimization

Benefits of Pinch Analysis Following are the benefits of Pinch Analysis:  Ability to set energy and capital cost target for individual process or entire production site ahead of design.  Lower energy consumption, due to better process heat integration.  Lower energy cost, due to lower consumption as well as shifting load from higher to lower cost utilities  Debottlenecking of boiler/cooling tower and refrigeration system capacity Figure 2: T min vs Cost Diagram

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CSIR Hamsa Developed by NAL, Bangalore National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), Bangalore has developed an air propelled ferry system, CSIR Hamsa, to access difficult terrains such as marshy land and water. Hamsa, with a likely tag of Rs. 4 lakh, can be used for eco-tourism, fishing, Figure 3: Grand Composite Curve leisure, geometrics, law enforcement, besides search and rescue operations. Grand Composite Curve (GCC) is used to select appropriate level of The ferry is named after the utilities to meet the energy requirement. mythological bird, which does not fly but In pinch analysis area, Indian Institute of Petroleum (I IP), Dehradun moves in land and water. It is a self- has got immense expertise and has already carried out a large number of propelled multi-terrain vehicle, which depends primarily on air thrust for projects. propulsion. “In India, over 400 million people live along the coastline and water bodies IIP’s Major Pinch Analysis Projects like rivers, lakes, shallow water regions of which many are filled with weeds. The air ferry can be used in a wide variety of Projects Benefits Achieved applications where access is a problem,” said Dr. S. Selvarajan, NAL scientist and Crude Distillation Unit’s For the same hot utility consumption, Project Leader. (CDU’s) preheat train, CDU’s throughput could be increased Hamsa has undergone trial runs at IOCL, Guwahati from 1 MMTPA to 1.3 MMTPA Ulsoor Lake and can be custom-built with different hull designs. One of the models is Delayed Coker Unit’s 4715 MMkcal a six-seater Parisil-boat, an all terrain preheat train, IOCL, energy savings per annum vehicle, which operates on a Simonini mini Guwahati aero engine. Another model is a three- seater, which can be used for clearing weeds Crude Distillation Unit’s For the same hot utility consumption, and for rescue operations in lakes and rivers. preheat train, Reliance CDU’s throughput could be increased The third model is based on the Indian Industries Ltd., Jamnagar by 30M3/hr coracle. Called water auto, it is a basic coracle which can be rendered very stable Lube Extraction Unit, Hydrodynamic debottlenecking of by attaching ‘strap-on out triggers.’ It would HPCL, Mumbai Solvent Recovery Circuit (SRC) cost around Rs 10,000 per unit. “Coracles are banned in Karnataka after many capsizing furnace for proposed unit capacity of incidents. However, with the strap-on out 48M3/hr from 36M3/hr triggers, the coracle is unsinkable. Discussions of CSIR scientists are on with FCC Unit at IOCL Furnace duty saved by the State Government for enhancing the Refinery, Panipat 1.26 MMkcal/hr applications of this unique vehicle.

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India Hopes to Fly Indigenous International Forum 90-Seater Aircraft in Five Years for Aviation Research

India hopes to test fly its first indigenously developed 90-seater Director General, CSIR has approved the regional transport aircraft in the next five years. According to the proposal for NAL to be a member of International DG-CSIR, Prof Samir K. Brahmchari, the 90-seater RTA will be Forum for Aviation Research (IFAR), which developed as a Team India initiative led by National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL), Bangalore, which could also see some global connects and represents leading worldwide participation. A Committee headed by former ISRO Chairman, aerospace research organizations and responds Dr G. Madhavan Nair has submitted a feasibility study to CSIR in to political, economic and public demands as an this regard. independent advisor. IFAR aims on focusing global The Committee, which had top bureaucrats and aerospace research topics such as climate change, noise, scientists as members, has suggested a two-pronged approach – efficient operations, security and safety by the Design & Development and Production Unit – to realize the development of an IFAR Road Map based on objective. “The Committee has come to a conclusion that the RTA should be a narrow body turbo-fan aircraft with a seating scientific and engineering competence. capacity for 70-90 persons and stretchable to 80-100 persons,” IFAR also aims at an International Aviation said Dr. Brahmachari. The total project cost is estimated at Rs Road Map, specifically addressing the most 7,700 crore that includes Rs 4,500 for the design and development important questions for a global air transport stage and Rs 3,200 for the production unit. system. Therefore, IFAR interacts with the public, The Nair Committee has also suggested that the government politics and industry, takes up the challenges pick up the entire tab for the design and development state and has favoured a joint venture route for setting up the production identified by them and acts as an independent and facility. The panel has set a target of six-eight years for completion politically neutral advisor. of the development and production stage of the Project. It is hoped The idea of IFAR was born at the Berlin that the prototype would be ready in the next five years assuming Summit 2008 where the key leaders of 12 that the Project takes off in 2012. International aeronautical research organizations met to address the question of The Air Transport Development Partnership of the Future in the context of climate changes. In this regard, the participants agreed that any between NAL, Bangalore and research and strategy contributing to new Mahindra Group solutions will have to reconcile with the increasing need for International mobility in a globalized Mahindra Aerospace has planned to manufacture utility aircrafts work-sharing economy. The challenge is to with seating capacity of five, eight, ten and 18. The Company’s Chief Technology Officer, Karthik Krishnamurthy recently said simultaneously develop new solutions to balance that the aircrafts would be used for tourism, cargo and adventure the climate effects of the accompanying sport rather than as commercial aircraft. The prototype of the worldwide air traffic growth. five-seater aircraft would be jointly developed by Mahindra along The next IFAR summit will be held on 18-19 with National Aeronautics Laboratory (NAL), Bangalore in June 2011 in Méry-sur-Oise near Paris in public-private partnership. connection with the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget.

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Novel Techniques for Preservation of Microorganisms Dr. Swaranjit Singh Cameotra

The normal practice of a culture stored in m.o. is poor, however, this collection to maintain microorganisms method is used as an alternative method for long-term is to preserve them by at for storage due to its efficiency and least two different methods viz. Freeze convenience. Storage in silica gel on the drying (lyophilization) and by storage other hand, is good for genetic stability under liquid nitrogen. Some in microbes. Some other methods used microorganisms do not stand these in conjunction are preservation in soil, preservation techniques and thus, gelatin beads and water. The genetic alternative techniques have to be applied stability in the case of preservation in to preserve them long term. Such soil is moderate to low and is moderate microorganisms can be preserved under Acidophilium cultures that have to be in water. mineral oil (m.o.), in silica gel and in maintained in liquid medium only. In all Dr Swaranjit Singh Cameotra is liquid medium with periodic transfers to cases microorganisms under m.o. Scientist, Institute of Microbial Technology fresh medium. Interestingly, these survived longer than in the control tubes (IMTECH), Chandigarh. He may be methods are very useful for laboratories without m.o. layered over them. In our contacted at: [email protected] that use simple and economic laboratory we routinely use m.o. layering preservation techniques. The microbes of about 1.5 to 2.0 cm above the culture References are viable for several years by storage slants and the cultures are viable for under mineral oil. 20-25 years or more. This method of 1. Preservation of Microorganisms as Deposits in Patent Applications, Conservation of stock cultures of preservation was started in 1987 in the Swaranjit Singh Cameotra. BBRC bacteria and fungi in mineral oil (m.o.) Microbial Type Culture Collection 353(4): 849-50. Feb 23, 2007. has been successfully used by many (MTCC), Chandigarh that is now an 2. Geographical Indications, Swaranjit researches. Heavy m.o. is as good as International Depositary Authority Singh Cameotra. CSIR News, 60, light oil for use as an overlay material. (IDA). 5-6, 2010. Owing to the slower growth of cultures Many fungi cannot stand Freeze 3. Importance and Role of a Service Culture under m.o., subculture periods may be Drying like the bacterial strains. Culture Collection, Swaranjit Singh Cameotra, lengthened from four weeks to as many collections therefore, preserve such WFCC July 2010. (http://wdcm.nig. ac.jp/wfcc/NEWSLETTER/WFCC-NL- months and years, with savings in effort, cultures by m.o. overlays. Some JULY-2010.pdf ) examples of fungi that are maintained labour, time, and materials. In some 4. Microbial Culture Collections: Their cases subculturing has to be done for by this method are isolates Activities and Importance, Swaranjit microbial cultures viable on slants/plates of Phytophthora, Pythium, basidio- Singh Cameotra. In Microbes: only every month and this is mycetes and mycelial forms which do Agriculture, Industry and Environment labour-intensive. not readily survive freeze-drying. Apart pp. 261-269, 2000. Frequent subculturing also leads to from the m.o. overlay, the cultures 5. Lesser known IPR Protection of New changes in the characters of the culture. unable to stand freezing are preserved Plant Varieties. Swaranjit Singh Cameotra. Plant Breeding, February 5, in silica gel and good results are Same is the case with preservation of 2007. (http://plantbreeding.org/article) some Thiobacillus, Sulfolobus and obtained. The genetic stability of cultures

SEPTEMBER 2011 199 R&D HIGHLIGHTS

CSIR’s Memorable Mark with Indelible Ink

Dr. P. Cheena Chawla

Come elections and a black mark on the demand of indelible ink has immensely exporting the indelible ink to about 25 voters’ left forefinger is a familiar sight. benefitted the families of the originators countries that include Canada, Ghana, What most of us are, however, not so of this product as they have been Nigeria, Mongolia, Malaysia, Nepal, familiar with is the fact that the receiving handsome royalties for its sale, South Africa and the Maldives. inerasable ink mark is a gift of CSIR to over so many years. However, as different countries follow the Nation. Once applied, this mark The Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd., a different mode for applying the ink, indicates that the voter has cast his/her a Karnataka Govt. Undertaking, has the Company supplies the ink as per vote, and thus, prevents that person to been licensed to manufacture the ink. customer specifications. For example, vote a second time. Thanks to CSIR This more than seven decades old in Cambodia and the Maldives, voters scientists working in the National Company was set up by Nalwadi needs to dip his/her finger into the ink Physical Laboratory (NPL), New Delhi, Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the ruler of the while in Burkina Faso the ink is applied for their painstaking efforts that led to then Princely State of Mysore, which with a brush, and nozzles are used for devising the chemical formula of was taken over by the State in 1947. its use in Turkey. Use of marker pens indelible ink. The Company entered the business of having the indelible ink are also in vogue One of the earliest achievements of making indelible ink only in 1962. Today in some countries. CSIR, it was to counter the challenge lakhs of 10 ml bottles are supplied to the Interestingly, more than half of the of fraudulent voting that research work State administration on receiving the Company’s profits accrue from the sale on formulating indelible ink was initiated purchase orders from the Chief Electoral of CSIR-developed indelible ink, which in 1950’s by scientists in the Chemical Officers of individual States, and includes the sale in the country and that Division, NPL, now called the Analytical consequently, the bills are also settled in the global market. As the name of Chemistry Section. The originators of by individual States. Today this indelible the Company suggests its other products this ink, Dr. B. G. Mathur, Dr. V. D. Puri mark has changed from a simple dot to include decorative coatings, industrial and Dr. M. L. Goel have all left for their an extended line on the nail covering a paints, wood polishes, primers, varnish heavenly abode long back but in reality, part of the skin. With this, the and thinners. According to figures in they are truly immortal for the Company’s sale orders of this product 2008-09, the Company did business uniqueness of the product they have have also dramatically risen 2.5 times the worth Rs. 11 crore by selling non-ink gifted us. This formulation of indelible previous sales and so has the overall profit. products, while the domestic orders for ink was patented by the National It is a matter of pride that today this indelible ink for this period was Rs. 13 Research Development Corporation innovation of CSIR is going places, as crore plus Rs. 2.5 crore earned from (NRDC), New Delhi. The increasing Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd., is already exports of this product.

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be activated,” says Dr Lal. “Rigorous testing is a very important parameter for this new version of indelible ink,” he added. “Efforts are also on to make a variant of indelible ink that does not use silver, as this will greatly reduce the cost of this high-utility product,” Dr. Lal informed.

indelible ink mark (earlier) indelible ink mark (now) According to Dr Lal, the monopoly of Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd., in As the ink is photo-sensitive, it needs approach to develop a better version of manufacturing the indelible ink is due to to be protected from exposure to direct indelible ink was proposed by Dr. 50-year old trust the Election sun rays. Therefore, amber-coloured Krishan Lal, Emeritus Scientist at NPL, Commission has with this Company. plastic containers are used for storing and former Director, NPL. The scientific Notwithstanding, before every assembly the ink, which in earlier times was stored team led by Dr. Lal comprised Dr. A. or by-election, the Election Commission in brown-coloured glass bottles. On K. Sarkar, Dr. Prabhat Gupta and Mr. sends a consignment of the ink to application, the ink remains on the Niranjan Singh who discussed and NPL for testing the product quality. fingernail for at least two days, to even mutually agreed upon this new approach The Company also puts the samples to up to a month depending upon the in a joint meeting with the Election in-house stringent quality control person’s body temperature and the Commission, NRDC and Mysore Paints tests before they are dispatched to environment. The ink contains silver & Varnish Ltd. The idea was to remove various customers in and outside the nitrate, which on reaction with the nail water base for the ink to make it dry country. and on exposure to light gets darker. This faster. So a two-component model of Not only is the formulation of water-based ink also contains a solvent indelible ink was devised where a indelible ink innovative, but the like alcohol to allow its faster drying, sensitizer was first used to clean the skin prospective new uses of this age-old besides having some dyes. The and then the ink was applied that was process also appear quite novel, as composition of indelible ink is optimized contained in a fluid which did not have besides being used during elections, the such that it diffuses into the skin a water base. ink is now finding applications in select spontaneously to give a definite marking This Project was fully funded by the hospitals to mark out cancer-affected which is resistant to chemical and Election Commission. Besides being a areas in the body. mechanical manipulations. two-component model of The precise protocol for making this the ink, the colour of the ink including its chemical composition indelible mark was deep and the quantity of each constituent is, saffron, which is why the however, not known to many people. Election Commission Though the basic chemical formula of suggested the scientists to this ink has not been altered since 1952, use another dye. As of NPL scientists are still working to make date this formulation has the formulation better. For example, not been used in any efforts are being made to devise a election, even though a variant formulation that dries up faster. patent has been filed for it. In the year 2000, a new research “Sure, this Project needs to

SEPTEMBER 2011 201 SEMINARS

NEIST organized National Seminar on, Plants in Diabetes

The North East Institute of Science & Technology (NEIST), Jorhat organized the 2nd Indian National Seminar on, Plants in Diabetes: Prospects & Challenges during 8–9 April 2011 jointly with Asian Network of Research on Anti-diabetic Plants (ANRAP), Dhaka, Bangladesh along with ERD Foundation, Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences and Government Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Guwahati. Invited dignitaries on the dais Held at Phanidhar Dutta Seminar Hall, Guwahati University, this Seminar promoting scientific knowledge between In the Valedictory Function, Prof. was largely attended by many the scholars and scientists of India and Khan mentioned that Bangladesh, India, distinguished scientists and doctors, Bangladesh. Pakistan and other SAARC countries under and post graduate students and Prof. Medhi laid out the importance should collaborate to harness natural scholars from various Institutes of of plant-based drugs in the management products from medicinal plants using Bangladesh, Govt. Ayurvedic college, of chronic disorders. Prof. Liaquat Ali, modern scientific methods. He Guwahati, Guwahati Medical College, Coordinator, Organizing committee encouraged more participation to carry Gauhati University, besides NEIST outlined the objectives of ANRAP and out research under ANRAP. Prof scientists. its future plans. Prof. A. K. Azad Khan, Mosihuzzaman mentioned that presently Dr. P. G. Rao, Director, NEIST Secretary General, ANRAP and Prof. Europe and America put more emphasis chaired the Inaugural Programme Biswapati Mukherjee, Member, ANRAP on herbal medicines. Therefore, the where Prof. M. Mosihuzzaman, also spoke on the occasion. efficacy of herbal medicines is required Chairman, ANRAP was present as the The Chief Guest Prof. to be validated with modern medical Chief Guest and Prof. U. C. Sarma, Mosihuzzaman, also spoke about research. He also laid emphasis on Vice Chancellor of Srimanta ANRAP and the need for more research forging ties with institutions like NEIST Sankaradeva University of Health into anti-diabetic plants. A total of four and University of Health Sciences, Sciences and Prof. O. K. Medhi, Vice plenary lectures were delivered by Gauhati University. Chancellor of Gauhati University as eminent scientists from India and “Some common food items of Guest of Honour. Bangladesh, 13 lectures were presented North-east India and Bangladesh have In his Welcome Address, Dr. R. K. by invited guests from India and anti-diabetic activity and their potency Sharma, Vice-Chairman, Organizing Bangladesh during the two-day Seminar. needs to be tested,” informed Dr. B. P. Committee mentioned this as a Nearly 30 scientific papers were Sarma, Associate Prof. Department of significant seminar on diabetes in the NE presented in the oral paper sessions of Kayachikitsa (Medicine), Govt. Region. Prof Sharma stressed on the the Seminar, while 20 papers were Ayurvedic College & Hospital, need for collaborative research work presented as Posters. One oral paper Guwahati and Organizing Secretary. and the importance of such seminars for session was chaired by Dr. Rao. Prof. Mukherjee mentioned the urgent

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need to groom young researchers He assured that the proposal specifically for expertise to be of Unified Medicine by Prof. developed in the areas like producing a Ali would be pursued on STZ induced rats (Diabetic model rats) priority basis. He further etc., from India and Bangladesh. suggested to develop standard “All medicines under different procedures for testing of categories like, Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, popular herbal drugs for Homoeopathy and Allopathy should be finding their actual mode of brought under one umbrella of Unified action. He laid emphasis on Medicine,” Prof Ali mentioned. “Public the exchange of students as well as Private collaborations are between Bangladesh and needed to work towards the upliftment India, and expressed that of human lives. Encouragement and scientists of these countries involvement from people of different must publish papers jointly and Dr. P. G. Rao, Director, NEIST delivering the speech fields and discipline are needed,” he share their ideas through e- suggested. mails for research progress. The through multi-disciplinary and multi- Dr. Rao hoped that participation in Seminar ended with the high hope of institutional collaborative research at such seminars would increase in future. fighting the challenge of diabetes both National and International level.

Indo-European Workshop on Recent Advances in Shape Memory Materials

A one-day Indo-European Workshop on, In his Welcome Address, Dr. G. N. themselves to some extent in Advances in Shape Memory Materials Dayananda, Head, CSMST, said that the aerospace, biomedical, automobile, was organized by the Centre for Societal objectives behind conducting this consumer appliances, to name a few.” Missions and Special Technologies Workshop were to create a common However, he continued, “There are (CSMST), NAL, on 21 March 2011 at awareness and impart rudiments of certain other shape memory material S. R. Valluri auditorium, NAL. The knowledge on Shape Memory Materials systems such as polymers and audience were scientists, researchers to scientists, academicians and design magnetic alloys that have attracted and engineers from NAL and other engineers who are working towards the attention in recent times due to R&D organizations like DRDO, HAL, development of smart mechanisms/ their functional efficacy and versatility. ISRO, ADA, ADE, General Motors, devices and structures based on these These new materials enhance the etc., apart from a few engineering materials. range of smart materials available and colleges. Shape Memory Materials have thus broaden the horizon of the This Workshop focused on some of highly discerning applications such as designer. In addition, this Workshop the recent advances made in the area morphing of aircraft, energy absorbing would provide more insight into the of shape memory alloys (SMAs), their systems for seismic structures, behaviour of shape memory materials thin films, and shape memory polymers deployment mechanisms for space vis-a-vis their potential utility, (SMPs) and Ferromagnetic SMAs; vehicles, micro systems etc. Dr. degradation aspects, consistency and while their the potential application areas Dayananda said, “The thermal and super reliability for use in various device were also identified. elastic SMA systems have established forms.”

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In his Inaugural Address, Dr. A. R. Dr. Petr Sittner, Institute of Physics, for MEMS and SMA Devices, Their Upadhya, Director, NAL expressed Prague, discussed the shape setting of Versatility and Collaborative happiness that Dr. Dayananda, Head, NiTi for smart structures and Research Potential. CSMST has taken a ‘smart’ initiative to composites; Prof. Jan Van Humbeeck, The concluding lecture was organize such a useful Workshop. He Catholic University, Belgium, gave an presented by Dr. G. N. Dayananda, also shared a lighter moment with the overview of the basic mechanisms and NAL, who gave an overview of the audience: “If a technical note had to be applications of SMPs, and Prof. Abhijit application-oriented SMA-based prepared in Hindi, what could be the Deshpande, IIT/M, Chennai, spoke on activities being carried out at NAL to gender of SMA?” He also suggested that tailoring the shape memory behaviour of realize morphing airframe structures as the participants should make best use cross-linked polymers. well as that for efficient energy of this unique opportunity with the In the post-lunch session, chaired by dissipating mechanisms. His talk also technical lectures from the experts in the Prof. S. Gopalakrishnan, IISc., Prof. dwelled on the various issues that need field, including two European speakers, Madangopal, BARC, gave a very to be addressed to realize SMA- Prof. Jan Van Humbeeck, Catholic focused talk on, Ferromagnetic SMAs integrated flight-worthy structures. University, Belgium, and Dr. Petr Sittner, and Their Potential for Varied The Technical Lectures and the Institute of Physics, Prague. The Vote Applications. This was followed by a Panel Discussions that followed brought of Thanks was proposed by Dr. Shylaja very informative and interesting out the fact that each type of shape Srihari, R&D Coordinator, CSMST. presentation on, SMPs for Space memory material has its own inherent In the Technical Sessions that Applications by Dr. C. Gouri, VSSC, merits and limitations; and there is a followed, the speakers of the first Thiruvananthapuram. The next lecture strong need to bring about a synergic session, chaired by Dr. K. Vijayaraju, by Prof. S. Mohan, IISc., Bangalore, effect through the development of ADA, presented illuminating lectures: was centered around SMA Thin Films hybrid/conjoint systems and/or devices.

NGRI Organizes International Workshop on, Deep Scientific Drilling to Study Reservoir Triggered Earthquakes at Koyna, India

An International Workshop on, faulting, physics of reservoir triggered at Karad, Maharashtra. The Workshop Deep Scientific Drilling at Koyna, earthquakes, and would contribute was supported by the Ministry of Earth India was organized by the NGRI, appreciably to earthquake hazard Sciences (MoES), Government of India Hyderabad during 21-25 March 2011. assessment and forecasting. and the International Continental Koyna is a well-known site of artificial The principal objectives of the Scientific Drilling Program (ICDP). water reservoir triggered seismicity. Workshop were to fully review the The participants of the Workshop This isolated zone of continued seismicity motivation behind deep drilling down to included seismologists and experts at shallow depths, provides an excellent focal depths of ~7 km at a classical RTS associated with active fault zone drilling opportunity for earthquake studies. A site in an intra-plate setting, and to design projects worldwide such as the San borehole observatory in this active zone the entire experiment through Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth has been under consideration, which discussions with national and (SAFOD) in western USA, the Chi-Chi would enable direct and continuous international experts. The first two days earthquake of Taiwan, the Kobe monitoring of an intra-plate seismic zone of the Workshop were held at NGRI, earthquake of Japan, the Gulf of Corinth at depth, leading to a better followed by a field trip to Koyna-Warna in Greece and the Latur earthquake of understanding of the mechanics of area and the final day’s discussions were India. Twenty six International delegates

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from the USA, Japan, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Taiwan, Canada and New Zealand, and 50 national delegates from major Earth Science Organizations, Institutes and Universities in the country participated in the Workshop which included the MoES, NGRI, Geological Survey of India, Atomic Group photograph of participants to the field trip at Koyna. Background view shows the Minerals Directorate for Koyna dam and near-horizontal basaltic lava flows Exploration and Research, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, North-East Institute of Baroda. fine structure of the seismic zone in the Science and Technology (NEIST), India On the basis of intensive discussions area including detailed mapping of the Meteorological Department, Institute for among the participants and important causative faults, both of which would be Seismological Research, Wadia Institute suggestions received from experts from critical in locating the deep borehole of Himalayan Geology, National Institute India and abroad, a few key areas were observatory in the region. A three-tier of Rock Mechanics, Central Water and identified for detailed preparatory action plan was agreed upon, which Power Research Station, National studies. Foremost among those are the included revisiting old data and acquiring Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, needs to establish the hydrological new data, studying hydraulic connectivity Pune University, Sivaji University connectivity between the reservoir and in the region and planning the main (Kolhapur) and M.S. University of host country rock and to constrain the borehole based on the above.

Workshop on, Biology Leading Towards Bio-inspired Engineering at CMERI, Durgapur

In engineering, all devices are develop new engineering solutions, and of acting as high-density storage media synthesized by assembly of discrete and is broadly known as Biomimetics or due to enhanced ferromagnetic often pre-existing components unlike the Biologically Inspired Engineering. properties. naturally-grown, fully-integrated Biologically inspired engineering Nature uses fewer materials to biological systems whose function drives encompasses specialty areas in biology, create a variety of life forms, and the the evolution of form at all levels engineering and the physical sciences, same material is used in many different simultaneously. Better understanding of and aims to revolutionize the underlying ways to meet various needs, as can be exquisite performance of these principles of synthetic design through seen in the case of collagen. Natural integrated biological systems over many radical thinking. Even though the field materials are mostly constituted from hierarchical levels is the key to emulate of Biomimetics has just started organic, inorganic crystals and their functionality in an engineered developing, some tangible applications amorphous phases. Biomimetics is a system. This new and emergent are on the horizon. The extremely high- discipline addressing the design and discipline applies biological principles to density nano-wires have the capability fabrication of synthetic materials using

SEPTEMBER 2011 205 WORKSHOPS

the strategies adopted by living In view of the immense potential Hindu University, Varanasi. organisms. The organic/ inorganic Biomimetics holds in store, it was In his talk entitled, Quality Control composites synthesized by the principles appreciated that CSIR scientists have in the Protein Assembly Line, Prof. of living organisms often display unique the responsibility of integrating Biology Ron Kopito of the University of and desirable morphological, structural with the Physical, Chemical and Stanford, USA outlined the problem of and mechanical properties, and represent Engineering Sciences so that the protein folding – the process by which informative models for the synthesis and capabilities are fused coherently in order linear polypeptide chains are assembled design of complex functional materials. to evolve relevant and useful devices. into the correct precise three- Self-assembly of materials includes As a primer, CMERI organized a dimensional structures that are essential synthesis of self-generating, hierarchical, Workshop covering the gamut of for the performance of varied functions. multi-functional, non-linear, composite, Biomimetics under the auspices of the In contrast to the ‘folding problem’ – adaptive, self-repairing and generic theme, Biology Leading hitherto traditionally the domain of biodegradable behaviour of materials. towards Bio-inspired Engineering biophysicists and theoretical For example, bones slowly add or lose during 18-19 April 2011 at CMERI, biologists – Prof. Kopito and his group mass and change their form in response Durgapur. The purpose of the Workshop are focusing on areas that lie at the to modifications of applied stresses. was initiating engineering-scientists and interface between Human Genetics and Being subjected to cyclic loading in-vivo, physicists on a track, so that they Cell Biology. it changes and thickens with an comprehend and recognize the scopes In the course of the Workshop, Prof. increased applied load. If it is kept of enriching Biology and find out a Kopito discussed the majority of genetic continuously under lower than the usual Pareto-Optimal way of integration. mutations that cause devastating load, it thins and reduces in density and The Workshop accommodated inherited brain disorders, like Parkinson’s weight. This phenomenon is indicative invited lectures by eminent experts such and Huntington’s diseases, interfere with of the ability of bone to adapt itself to as Prof. Ron Kopito, Stanford the process of protein folding, leading to the changing demands of the levels of University, USA; Prof. Ranga the production of proteins that, if not applied load. In this respect, bone is a Narayanan, University of Florida, USA; rapidly destroyed, become toxic to brain smart material even though the response Prof. Amitabha Chattapadadhyay, cells. Prof. Kopito and his co- time is longer. Current interest of many CCMB, Hyderabad; Prof. Sudip researchers are trying to understand branches of science ranging from Chattopadhyay, NIT, Durgapur; Prof. how brain cells are able to make the electronics to molecular biology is the Debashish Bhattacharya, IICB, Kolkata; decision to destroy these aberrant creation of complex, heterogeneous Dr. Sanjay Kumar, IHBT, Palampur; Dr. proteins and why these processes structures of well-controlled architecture Sudit Mukhopadhyay, NIT, Durgapur sometimes fail, with devastating and function. and Prof. Pradyumna Ghosh, Banaras consequences.

Prof. Ron Kopito speaking on ‘Quality Control in Prof. Ranga Narayanan speaking at the Workshop Prof. Amitabha Chattopadhyay at the Workshop the Protein Assembly Line’

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Speaking on his chosen theme, of many important cellular functions issues with examples taken from Oscillatory Flows as a Means of involving transfer of information from literature as well as his own work. Separation of Species, Prof. Ranga outside to the interior of the cell. Dr. Sanjay Kumar of IHBT, Narayanan of the University of Florida, In physical terms, membranes can Palampur felt that there was a need to USA succinctly explained how be treated as a complex oriented fluid automate measurements on the visible oscillatory flows in tubes can be used which is a weakly coupled, non-covalent characteristics or phenotype of plants as a mechanical means to partially and anisotropic assembly of molecules which include measurement of leaf separate species and increase mass in two-dimensions (and can, therefore, growth, leaf architecture, surface transport. The theory behind the be treated as soft matter). Membranes characteristics, photosynthetic phenomenon can be traced to the Taylor are heterogeneous in the context of a characteristics, leaf temperature, dispersion in tubes. The idea of species wide range of spatiotemporal scales. A biomass, evapo-transpiration, water use separation, he illuminated, originated with unique aspect of such an assembly is its efficiency, disease symptoms, etc. These hyperventilation in lungs and has since dynamics spanning a large range of time traits, he felt, need to be monitored in a been applied to separation of species in scales, which supports a wide variety high throughput and non-invasive mode the gas phase. of biological processes, necessary for at various stages of growth and In his lecture, Prof. Narayanan cellular function. Monitoring membrane development of a plant. explained in detail the physics of mass dynamics with all its complexities Dr. Kumar’s deliberations on, Plant transfer in oscillatory flow, and thereafter continues to be a challenge in processes that need Technological proceeded to outlining the application to contemporary membrane biophysics. Interventions, opened up the very separation of species in the gas phase A fundamental issue of biological interesting possibility of automating through the presentation of comparing relevance is how cell membrane measurements for estimating experiments to theory. Future dynamics could be related to cellular metabolites (critical for medicinal and applications of separation in the liquid signaling. Another important emerging aromatic plants), protein, DNA, RNA, phase were also discussed along with area is the role of cellular membranes and nitrogen content. The root zone of potential problems and opportunities. in the entry of pathogens to host cells. a plant, he surmised, is yet another Biological membranes are complex These insights emerged from the important area that could utilize non- assemblies of lipids and proteins that extremely lucid presentation of Prof. invasive methods to monitor root growth, allow cellular compartmentalization and Amitabha Chattopadhyay, Scientist, soil characteristics, soil volume, water act as the interface, through which cells CCMB, Hyderabad as he enumerated potential, all being critical parameters communicate with each other and with the Current Excitements and determining plant performance. the external milieu. The biological Challenges in Membrane Biology and Modules should be developed to validate membrane, therefore, constitutes the site provided a broad overview of these these parameters for measurements

Prof. Sudit Mukhopadhyay of NIT, Durgapur Prof. Sudip Chattopadhyay of NIT, Durgapur Dr. Sanjay Kumar speaking on ‘Plant processes that need Technological Interventions’

SEPTEMBER 2011 207 WORKSHOPS/TRAINING PROGRAMMES

very interesting vista was exposed to the Workshop participants through the lecture of Prof. Sudip Chattopadhay on the theme, Light-Controlled Arabidopsis Seedling Development. The Workshop participants were then taken through an Introduction of Life and Life Engineering by Prof. Sudit Mukhopadhyay of NIT, Durgapur, Prof. Ron Kopito being felicitated by Prof. Amitabha Chattopadhyay being felicitated by Prof. Amitabha Chattopadhyay Prof. Gautam Biswas, Director, CMERI, Durgapur wherein he outlined the basic idea of Genetic Engineering along with the under controlled as well under field phototropins and unidentified scope of engineering in biology. conditions. ultraviolet B (UV-B) photoreceptor(s). Biologists are now creating genetically Light controls growth and Prof. Sudip Chattopadhay of NIT, modified life of laboratory animals for development throughout the plant life Durgapur and his team had been understanding human diseases and also cycle. In unfavourable environmental investigating the molecular basis of light- for drug discovery. Today genetically conditions, an intact and healthy seed mediated seedling development in a modified plants have been created which remains dormant in a dry state. A wide model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, and are insect- and- pathogen-resistant, spectrum of light, in particular far-red, was successful in cloning and drought-resistant and salinity-resistant. red, blue and ultraviolet (UV) light induce functionally characterizing several Genetically modified disease resistant photomorphogenesis. It is, therefore, not regulatory proteins signaling that light veterinary animals have also been surprising that plants have adopted the plays an important role in Arabidopsis produced successfully. Genetically ability to sense multiple parameters of seedling development. The team had modified microbes are being used for ambient light signals, including light recently demonstrated the genetic removal of different pollutants. Bio- quantity (fluence), quality (wavelength), interrelations of ZBF1 with two well- engineering has evolved as a discipline, direction and duration. Light signals are characterized negative regulators of light where engineering knowledge is being perceived through at least four distinct signaling, COP1 and SPA1, in used to develop artificial tissues, artificial families of photoreceptors, which include photomorphogenic growth and light organs etc. for treatment of human phytochromes, cryptochromes, regulated global gene expression. This diseases.

One-day Workshop on, Faculty Training and Motivation & Adoption of Schools & Colleges at CBRI by Vigyan Prasar

Vigyan Prasar (An autonomous requirements of the users at different Workshop on 29 March 2011 at the organization under the Department of levels and are designed and developed Central Building Research Institute Science & Technology, Govt. of India) with an objective to create scientific (CBRI), Roorkee to promote interest, has been engaged in extensive in-house awareness among the faculty members excitement and excellence in science research conceptualizing different and students. education for students and faculty programmes of science & technology. The scientists of Vigyan Prasar, Mr. members of schools and colleges of All the programmes are evolved by R. Nath, Scientist E and Mr. Kapil Roorkee under the Faculty Training & understanding the needs and Tripathi, Scientist C organized a Motivation and Adoption of Schools

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& Colleges Programme of CSIR. A total of 12 science faculty members and more than 50 students of the following six schools and colleges of Roorkee participated in the Workshop: K. L. DAV (PG) College, Methodist Scientist, Vigyan Prasar delivering the lecture (left), Faculty members and students during the Workshop (right) Girls Inter College, 7th Day Adventist Inter College, Government Inter College, Bal Vidya Mandir School and CBRI Junior High School. Mr. H. K. Jain, PTO and Mr. Nagesh Babu Balam, Scientist C of CBRI, Roorkee who have been actively associated with all activities of this CSIR Faculty members and students receiving kits on Innovative Activities in Physics Programme also attended the Workshop. The Workshop was inaugurated by Shri S. G. Dave, Scientist G and Head (DC&E), CBRI who is also one of the Advisers of this Pro- gramme and coordinated by Dr. P. K. Bhargava, Scientist F, CBRI. Shri Faculty members and students interacting with scientist of Vigyan Prasar ( above & below) Dave said that the Workshop is a unique opportunity for school students to learn the basic principles of science through real experiments. Mr. R. Nath told the faculty members and students that innovation has no boundaries.

SEPTEMBER 2011 209 TRAINING PROGRAMMES

NGRI Participates in an International Collaborative Program

An International collaborative program future gold exploration activity entitled, Exposing the Gold Potential is envisaged. Apart from of the Neoarchean “Himalaya” of the the National Geophysical Dharwar Craton in Southern India Research Institute (NGRI), has been approved under the scheme Hyderabad, Pondicherry of ‘Indo-Australian Strategic Fund University and Curtin Scheme’. The Project is aimed at University from Australia understanding the time and space are also involved in this relationship between the Closepet Program. Granite batholith and adjacent gold- As a part of the proposed hosting terranes of the Eastern and project, a Workshop was held Western Dharwar craton and reliable from 12-14 February 2011 to A view of the participants geochronology of other significant gold assess the present status on the Project Geomysore, Bangalore; Dr.Y. J. deposits. and to chalk out the future plan of action. Bhaskar Rao, Acting Director, NGRI; A tectonic synthesis of existing and Prof. Neal McNaughton, Project Leader officers from Hutti Gold Mines, and new data as a template for future along with Dr. Ayyasami, Dy.DG, GSI, other Scientists from NGRI participated research and to underpin and revitalize Hyderabad; Dr.V. N. Vasudev, in the discussions.

CGCRI Conducts Orientation Programme for Summer Interns-2011 The Central Glass & Ceramic Research programme, to participate in result- students were assigned specific projects Institute (CGCRI), Kolkata has instituted oriented research projects for two as independent components of on-going a special Summer Internship months duration. This year 30 candidates supra-institutional or network projects to Programme to attract bright Engineering were selected through a rigorous supplement the overall R&D activities students, pursuing four-year engineering screening and short-listing process. The at CGCRI. In order to acquaint with the infrastructure and current activities of CGCRI, an Orientation Programme was organized on 27 June 2011 for the summer intern students where the Director addressed the students and explained the present mandate of CSIR and the specific areas of research in focus at CGCRI. Subsequently, the Heads of the Divisions made brief presentations about their divisional activities and future aims. The students were later divided into groups and taken for a visit to different Divisions of The Summer Trainees along with Director, CGCRI and Head, Programme Management Division CGCRI.

210 CSIR NEWS G. J. LECTURE SERIES

Golden Jubilee Lecture Series Held at NEIST, Jorhat

Ninth & Tenth Lecture Series

The 9th and 10th Golden Jubilee Lecture Series were held on 18 March 2011 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebration of NEIST, Jorhat. The Guest speakers were Dr. N. Chattopadhyay and Dr. S. Bandyopadhyay, Senior Scientists, Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) Lucknow and Indian Institute of Toxicological Research (ITRC), Lucknow respectively. The Function was presided over by Dr. P. G. Rao, Dr. N. Chattopadhyay (Left) and Dr. S. Bandyopadhyay (Right) delivering the lectures Director, NEIST which was largely attended by invited dignitaries from Positively Impact Bone Metabolism formation. “In this condition, the various Institutes, scientists, research More Than Those Derived From osteoclasts become more numerous, students besides the scientific fraternity Dietary Sources: Evidence From in while the number of osteoblasts greatly of NEIST. vitro, in vivo and Pharmacokinetic declines, and thus the marrow cavities Dr. Rao while delivering the Studies. seem to get larger as trabeculae Welcome Address mentioned that the Dr Chattopadhyay said that bone is have unfilled cavities,” he opined. “The distinguished speakers were specialized the depot for calcium in the body, and mass of a skeletal site is strongly in human health related areas and their bone remodeling occurs constantly at affected by Marrow Volume Fraction lecture topics will lay more emphasis on 1-2 million discrete sites in the adult (MVF), or amount of marrow compared the future project work in the field of skeleton. “The bone is constantly to the total skeletal mass, and health envisaged in the 12th Five Year remodeled in order to maintain osteoporosis changes the MVF, and thus 2+ 3- Plan. He further expressed hope that it constant levels of Ca and PO4 and changes the bone mass,” he said. will enrich the knowledge of researchers as a result of mechanical stress, a He also said that accelerated loss of on the related subjects. particular bone site endures. The bone after menopause is accompanied Dr. B. G. Unni, Scientist G & Area- functional portion of bone responsible for by reduced ability to form new Coordinator (Biotechnology/Biological the remodeling are the osteoblasts, bone, giving rise to menopausal Sciences) gave the introductory speech responsible for creating collagen to osteoporosis. of the speakers. Dr. Unni also spoke in strengthen bone; osteocytes, responsible Informing that there is an estimated brief about the programme undertaken for controlling the mineral balance; and 350 million Indians who suffer from so far by the Laboratory as a part of the osteoclasts which destroy bone mineral osteoporosis and as a result there is a Golden Jubilee celebration. Dr. tissue,” he added. growing interest in assessing the role of Chattopadhyay, Scientist F and Head, Dr Chattopadhyay lamented that plants and plant-derived compounds in Endocrinology Division, CDRI, Lucknow the most common bone disease, the prevention of menopausal delivered the 9th Golden Jubilee Lecture Osteoporosis, is a disorder which osteoporosis, Dr Chattopadhyay said that on, Constituents of Medicinal Plants causes bone resorption to exceed bone currently his team has identified some

SEPTEMBER 2011 211 G. J. LECTURE SERIES

bone conserving plant extract used for are found inside the neurons,” she said. which may be one of the mechanisms the treatment of osteoporosis. These She added that plaques and tangles are by which the metals potentiate plants include soya, red clove, green tea found in the brains of people without neurodegeneration,” she informed. and extract of Ginkgo biloba, Egb 761. Alzheimer’s but the gross amount of Dr. Bandyopadhyay stressed on the He also demonstrated the development them is significant in Alzheimer’s fact that the neuropathological hallmarks of a standard extract derived from disease. of AD include extracellular β-amyloid natural source comprising the stem bark Dr. Bandyopadhyay also said that (amyloid precursor protein (APP) of Butea monosperma and stem bark metals such as aluminum (Al), copper deposits, intracellular neurofibrillary of Ulmus wallichiana, which are very (Cu), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) have been tangles (NFT)), dystrophic neuritis and effective at preventing post-menopausal implicated in the pathogenesis of amyloid angiopath. Therefore, the bone osteoporosis. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) because mismetabolism of APP and the defective Dr. (Ms) Bandyopadhyay, Scientist C trace amounts of these metals present clearance of β amyloid generate a in Developmental Toxicology, ITRC, in drinking water raises the possibility cascade of events including Lucknow delivered the 10th Golden for low-dose chronic exposure. “Since hyperphosphorylated tau (τ) mediated Jubilee Lecture from the same dais on the presence of Al and Cu in drinking breakdown of microtubular assembly the topic, Metals, Neuroinflammation water has been shown to adversely and resultant synaptic failure which and Therapeutics in Alzheimer’s affect the progression of AD, these two results in AD. In his concluding remarks, Disease. She informed that two major metals may aggravate some of the Dr. Rao urged the interested researchers findings in the Alzheimer’s brain, a events associated with the disease to interact with the speakers further for degenerative disease are amyloid process,” she said. “The role of Al and initiating future collaborative research plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Cu in causing an inflammatory response work. The programme concluded with “Amyloid plaques are found outside the within the aging brain is well known and the Vote of Thanks offered by neurons, whereas neurofibrillary tangles this gets upregulated in the AD brain Dr. Nileema Saikia, Scientist, NEIST.

Eleventh Lecture Series

The 11th Golden Jubilee Lecture Series its Chemical Science Group of of NEIST was held on 23 March 2011. laboratories and has limited work on The Guest speaker, Dr. P. V. Subba Rao, seaweed resources. However, an active Deputy Director & Scientist F (retired), group has been working on the Central Salt & Marine Chemicals development of drugs from natural Research Institute (CSMCRI), resources. Dr. Subba Rao gave a bird’s Bhavnagar, Gujarat delivered the lecture eye view on the vast potential aspects on, Seaweed Resources and Societal of seaweed cultivation for rural Benefits. The Function was chaired by development and economic upliftment of

Dr. R. C. Boruah, Scientist-in-Charge, Dr. P. V. Subba Rao, delivering the lecture people residing in the coastal areas of NEIST which was largely attended by Indian peninsula. He said that 71 invited dignitaries, scientists, research In his Welcome Address, percent of the Earth’s surface is covered students, school teachers and students, Dr. Boruah mentioned that NEIST was by oceans. Many plants live in oceans besides the scientific fraternity of established in 1961 as one of the multi- like the seaweed and seagrass that can NEIST. disciplinary laboratories of CSIR under thrive in salty ocean water and provide

212 CSIR NEWS G. J. LECTURE SERIES

food, feed, fodder and shelter for many marine animals. He said that seaweeds “The green seaweeds such as Ulva, marine animals. contain more than 60 trace elements in Enteromorpha, Caulerpa, Codium and Marine algae commonly known as a concentration much higher than in Monostroma; brown seaweeds such seaweeds are of various shapes and land plants, and also vitamins, proteins, as Sargassum, Hydroclathrus, sizes, and consist of thousands of species essential amino acids, iodine, bromine Laminaria, Undaria and Macrocystis mainly of three types – red, green and and antibiotics besides several bioactive and red seaweeds such as Porphyra, brown algae that are classified into three substances. Agar produced mainly from Gracilaria, Eucheuma, Hypnea, different kingdoms: the Protists, red seaweeds of Gracilaria edulis, Laurencia and Acanthophora are Chromists and Plantae, respectively. Dr. Gelidiella acerossa, Gracilaria consumed as vegetables, in soups, salads, Rao said that seagrass is a flowering verrucosa and from Eucheuma and porridges and pickles,” he said. Dr Subba plant that lives in estuaries, protected Hypnea is used in all biochemical Rao mentioned that seaweeds are used bays and lagoons, and like regular grass laboratories. “Alginic acid and mannitol as human food, mineral supplements, it has a strong root system that prevents are manufactured from brown health foods, medicine, feed for livestock, erosion and also produces oxygen and seaweeds of Sargassum and poultry, fish and prawn and as manure acts as shelter and food source for many Turbinaria,” he informed. for many plantation crops, and are used even to combat global warming.

Twelth Lecture Series

Dr. Shailesh Nayak, Secretary, MoES, delivering the 12th Golden Jubilee Lecture at NEIST (left) . Dr. Shailesh Nayak, Secretary, MoES, interacting with NEIST scientists (centre) and NE Wide Seismic Network inaugurated by Dr. Nayak (right)

The 12th Golden Jubilee Lecture was fraternity of NEIST. activities of Weather Forecasting System delivered by Dr Shailesh Nayak, Delivering his lecture on, Societal in India and its services that find wide Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences Benefits of Earth System Science, Dr applications in Agriculture, Aviation, (MoES) under the banner of World Nayak spoke about the importance and Shipping and Sports. Forecasting of Environment Day Celebration at the need for Earth System Science for weather and air quality, wind, NEIST Auditorium on 3 June 2011. The developing scientific understanding temperature, humidity, etc. are some of Function Chaired by Dr. P. G. Rao, about natural cycles on Earth, which will the activities of this System. Director, NEIST, was largely attended help in improving prediction of climate, Dr. Nayak discussed the numerical by invited guests, scientists, research weather and natural hazards. In this weather prediction system with different students and others besides the scientific connection, Dr Nayak spoke about the time intervals and air quality forecasting.

SEPTEMBER 2011 213 G. J. LECTURE SERIES/HONOURS & AWARDS

“The linkage with Doppler Weather Tsunami and Vulnerability mapping like discussed with the Environment Day Radar and High Computing System is sea level rise. celebrations. To mark the day, Dr. Nayak absolutely essential for accurate short- Summarizing his lecture, Dr. Nayak inaugurated the NE Wide Area Seismic term weather forecasting,” he opined. mentioned that scientists should develop Network (NEWSN) in the presence of Among other things, he also mentioned technology, which can benefit the people Director, Dr. P. G. Rao and the few interesting areas like Eco- up to grassroot level. In his remarks, Dr. distinguished gathering. The Function morphological zone of coral reef, harmful Rao expressed his appreciation for the came to an end with Vote of Thanks algal blooms and ornamental fishery. In illuminating and informative lecture offered by Dr. Prabhat Kotoky, Chief coastal ocean monitoring and prediction delivered by Dr. Nayak and mentioned Scientist, NEIST. system, he highlighted modeling for about the relevance of the issues

CIMAP Bags Krishi Sansthan Samman 2011 Award

CIMAP was recognized for its acceptable in the world remarkable achievements when market. it was conferred the Mahindra The agro-technologies Samriddhi India Agri Award developed by CIMAP have 2011,in the area of Agriculture, been beneficial for the farmers under the category, Public (especially marginal farmers) Sector Organizations called as well as industries. CIMAP Krishi Sansthan Samman- continuously guides farmers 2011 in a glittering Award through spot trainings and ceremony held in New Delhi in demonstrations to adopt recent past. improved plant varieties with Shri Sharad Pawar, agronomic practices that Minister of Agriculture & Food ensure quality production. As Prof. Ram Rajasekharan, Director, CIMAP with Trophy of the Award processing Industries was the essential oils/herbs fetch Chief Guest. Instituted by premium price in the market, Mahindra & Mahindra Group in technology for rose scented geranium CIMAP focuses on developing newer partnership with Zee News, the Award for Uttarakhand regions and recycling products from these oils resulting in comprises a cash prize of Rs. One lakh of plant agro-waste. It has also higher demand for essential oils and one thousand besides a citation. The contributed immensely in the plant extracts. Award was received by Professor Ram formulation of innovative farming The agro-technologies developed Rajasekharan, Director, CIMAP. technology. CIMAP took the initiative and disseminated by CIMAP have CIMAP has been involved in for the all-round development of been adopted by a large number of creating improved agro-technologies and promising medicinal and aromatic plants farmers in the country starting with plant varieties of menthol mint, agro- and (MAPs) and has developed technology small areas of half an acre or less. processing technology and improved packages for cultivation of important Today these technologies have attained variety CIMAP-Arogya of Artemisia plant varieties, including genotypes an industrial scale yielding very high annua (the anti-malarial drug plant), producing quality nucleus material returns and immense employment opportunities.

214 CSIR NEWS HONOURS & AWARDS

Vigyan Ratna Samman to CDRI Scientist Council of Science & Technology, Uttar Pradesh honours eminent Scientists, either born in Uttar Pradesh or having worked continuously for the last 10 years in Uttar Pradesh, under its Science Awards Scheme - 2000. This year, Dr. Madhu Dikshit, Scientist F & Head, Pharmacology Division of Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow received the prestigious Vigyan Ratna Samman, which carries a citation and a cash award of Rs 50000/-. Dr. Dikshit is the first and foremost researcher in the country pursuing investigative pharmacology to delineate the role of NO, free radicals and neutrophils in various pathologies. Her high quality conceptual work has been amply cited and has implications in several pathologies. She has identified a new class of anti-platelet molecules, exhibiting anti-thrombotic and collagen antagonistic activity, having immense potential as a new class of anti-platelet drugs. She has more than 120 research papers to her credit Dr. Madhu Dikshit with Vigyan Ratna Samman and mentored more than 20 Ph.D. students. Memento and Citation

Dual Honour for CDRI Scientist

Dr. Chandishwar Nath, Scientist memory functions, and G and Head, Division of conducted pioneer studies on Toxicology, Central Drug acetylcholinesterase (AChE) Research Institute (CDRI), enzyme and brain insulin Lucknow received Fellowship receptors. of two prestigious scientific Dr Nath’s group has societies: National Academy of demonstrated potential anti- Medical Sciences, India dementia activity of gugulipid an (FAMS) and Indian Academy anti-dyslipidemic drug of Neurosciences. Dr. Nath is developed by CDRI and awell-recognized Neuro- obtained US & European pharmacologist. His research patents. Recently, US & work is of quite significance for Dr. C. Nath receiving the Fellowship certificate of Indian Academy of Neurosciences from Prof. Torsten N. Wiesel, Nobel Laureate (Medicine) at European patents were knowledge generation as well as 5th Congress of Federation of Asian-Oceanic Neuroscience Societies granted to newer synthetic applied use. (FAONS) in Lucknow anti-cholinesterase (memory Dr Nath’s basic research improvement) of CDRI which were work is on central neurotransmitter wide recognition. He has published 100 pharmacologically evaluated by his systems in Neurobehavioural disorders, research papers in internationally reputed group. The studies conducted by his team Dementia, Parkinsonism, Drug scientific journals. His research group may open new dimensions in Dependence, Depression and is currently working on molecular understanding memory dysfunctions. Aggressive behaviour that has received neuropharmacological aspects of

SEPTEMBER 2011 215 OBITUARY

OBITUARY

The Indian scientific community lost an accomplished colleague on 15 July 2011. Dr. Vinod Bhakuni died of a sudden heart attack in Lucknow. Dr. Bhakuni headed the Division of Molecular and Structural Biology at the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow where he had worked and taught since 1984. He obtained his Ph.D. from CDRI and returned to the Institute after spending two years as a post-doctoral fellow at the Johns Hopkins University, USA. Among the leading Protein Chemists in the country, he pursued aspects of equilibrium protein folding, stability and function. His initial work included the understanding of the binding mechanisms of hydrophobic dyes and different alkaloids on cytochrome C, catalase and other proteins and deciphering their folding patterns and pathways. His laboratory’s work on glucose oxidase revealed the importance of ionic interactions in the function and stability of this biosensor. The unique stoichiometry of the cofactor in serine hydroxyl methyl transferase (SHMT) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was first demonstrated by his group. Dr. Bhakuni further characterized SHMT from different trying to understand the mechanism of its formation and sources to decipher their mechanism of action and folding remedy. His research contributions were recognized by many patterns. More recently, his interests revolved around Awards, including the Bhatnagar Prize in 2006, and understanding the role of protein domains in cofactor binding, fellowships of the three Indian Science Academies. He is stability, and function. For the last two or three years he was survived by his wife, son and daughter besides the scientific also working on different aspects of amyloidogenesis and legacy that is carried forward by the many students he mentored.

Printed and Published by Deeksha Bist on behalf of National Institute of Science Communication And Information Resources (NISCAIR), (CSIR), Dr K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi -110 012 and printed at NISCAIR Press, Dr K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi -110 012 Editor: Dr. P. Cheena Chawla; Editorial Assistant: Neelima Handoo Design: Neeru Sharma; Sarla Dutta; Production: Kaushal Kishore; Editorial help: Dr Sukanya Datta Phone: 25846301; Fax: 25847062; E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]; Website:http://www.niscair.res.in For subscription: The Sales & Distribution Officer, NISCAIR; E-mail: [email protected]; Annual Subscription: Rs 300; Single Copy: Rs 30.00 Subscription Complaint No: 25843359 CSIR NEWS RN216 4512/57