The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI)
Annual Report (April 2018 – March 2019)
Established: 1930 Oldest Science Academy of India; Recognised by the DST, GoI as Professional Body; and by the DSIR, GoI as the SIRO POSTAL ADDRESS The National Academy of Sciences, India 5, Lajpatrai Road, Prayagraj– 211002, India
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Published by the General Secretary (HQ), NASI for The National Academy of Sciences, India, Prayagraj
ii “An Academy of Science can do a great deal by educating public opinion, undertaking particular problems, and bringing out scientific workers in various fields for discussion and cooperative research. But the main function of the Academy should be towards cultural improvement by contributions to human knowledge”. - Prof. Meghnad Saha on the Inaugural Session of the Academy
India is justified in feeling proud for its unique contributions to science in ancient days. However, successive foreign invasions and alien rule for centuries pushed science in the background and the country went through with what may be described as the Dark Age for science. Western science attracted Indian intelligentsia after the establishment of the western system of education and the universities; and despite many constraints, the country could produce giants like Prof. Meghnad Saha, Prof. S. N. Bose, Sir J.C. Bose and Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray.
The First World War and the world-wide economic depression caused a set back to scientific research globally much more so in India whose scientists found it difficult even to publish their research work since they had to be almost entirely dependent on foreign journals. The post World War India saw the rise of the freedom movement, which incidentally drew attention to the numerous problems of the Indian populace like poverty, hunger, diseases, recurrent floods, droughts, famines etc. Patriotic scientists felt deeply concerned with these.
It was in this background that the idea of establishing a forum for scientists, which would help them in publishing their researches and bring them together to discuss and find scientific solutions to the problems of the country, was mooted by Prof. Meghnad Saha, a great scientist, patriot and the then Professor of Physics at the University of Allahabad in 1929. His views were published in the article entitled 'A Plea for an Academy of Sciences' in December 1929 issue of the University of Allahabad magazine.
The National Academy of Sciences, India was thus established as the first Science Academy of this country in 1930.
iii NASI –Envisions: The cultivation and promotion of Science & Technology in all its branches - through
• organizing meetings and holding discussions on scientific and technological problems • recognition of scientific and social achievements by electing Fellows, Members, awarding Chairs, research support and promoting excellence • popularization of science among the students and communities • undertaking scientific works of public importance as may be called upon to perform • promoting scientific excellence in research by giving due recognition/awards to scientists/researchers • publication of proceedings, journals, memoirs, books and other works as considered desirable • maintaining a Library • co-operating with other Academies in India and to appoint representatives of the Academy • opening Chapters of the Academy in the country • securing endowments for the promotion of science and technology • promoting scientific and technological research/projects for societal welfare
iv organizing meetings and holding discussions on scientific and recognition of scientific promoting scientific and technological problems and social achievements technological by electing Fellows, research/projects for Members, awarding societal welfare Chairs, research support and promoting excellence
securing endowments for the promotion of popularization of science science and technology among the students and communities
Vision & Mission undertaking scientific opening Chapters of the works of public Academy in the country importance as may be called upon to perform
promoting scientific co-operating with other excellence in research by Academies in India and to giving due appoint representatives of recognition/awards to the Academy scientists/researchers publication of proceedings, journals, memoirs, books and maintaining a Library other works as considered desirable
v Prof. G. Padmanaban President-NASI, Prayagraj
Foreword
Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome.
- Arthur Ashe
The announcement by the Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi (on March 27, 2019), that India has successfully tested its Anti-Satellite (ASAT) Missile by destroying an LEO satellite, is a true reflection of India’s successful journey in the unending space of aspirations and innovations. India has become the fourth country after the US, Russia and China in the world to achieve this historic feat. The team Mission Shakti completed this feat in just three minutes, making India's way in the space power league.
NASI also have the pride of being associated with such National Missions; and several fellows of NASI are part of such prestigious moments. It is worth mentioning that Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam, former President of India, and the ‘Missile Man’, was a distinguished Fellow of our Academy; Dr. K. Kasturirangan and Dr. Anil Kakodkar, the Past Presidents of NASI are intimately associated and led the prestigious missions of Space and Atomic Energy in India. As per mandate of NASI, ‘Science & Society’, enunciated by the founder President Prof. Meghnad Saha, the Academy since its inception in 1930, always focused its attention towards solving the societal problems through scientific interventions. The long list of its symposia/seminars/brainstorming, held earlier and the recommendations published as memorable volumes are the depository of such initiatives.
Dr. Manju Sharma, Chair, NASI New Initiatives (after Prof. M. G. K. Menon), took several steps to organize discussions with fruitful recommendations, which gave vision to provide solutions to several societal problems. A few examples are: Technological Empowerment of Women Scientists, Entrepreneurship Development, Eradication of Malnutrition in India, Tribal Development, etc. The proceedings of such initiatives as vision documents are available on the websites of NASI. The Tribal Welfare Programmes have already gained momentum in about 21 centres spread all across the country. The year 2018-19, also witnessed several other programmes aimed towards connecting rural India to the pace of development. These were as a part of celebration of 150th Birth Anniversary of ‘Ba & Bapu’ and 125th Birth Anniversary of Prof. Meghnad Saha. The Academy organized several societal activities with emphasis on Science in different parts of the country through its 20 Local Chapters; the proceedings are to be released, just after the closing ceremony of these programmes of celebration in October 2019.
vi Our endeavour to make people aware of water conservation, and use safe water, has gained strength with the establishment of the third river gallery on Cauvery at Mysuru, this year; the Vth Brainstorming on ‘Safe Water & Sanitation’, is to be organized shortly involving many stake holders including the academia and industries. Three reports on Nutritional Survey & Analysis (in collaboration with ICMR-NIN, Hyderabad) on the rural/semi-urban population of Allahabad, Hyderabad and Vadodara, published this year are repositories of the status of malnutrition, and the pragmatic approach to provide feasible solutions.
Indian Science, its Competitive Strength and its Relevance to National Needs (a report by the NASI Study Group), published last year is a road-map for taking strides in the relevant field of science by our country to compete in the world scenario. The Academy also took keen interest in the national debates on Education Policy of India, Ethical Issues in Science, Publication Policies on Open Access and the CARE Group Issues, as part of its responsibility as a ‘Think Tank’ to divulge and deliver on important policy issues of the country.
There are many more issues to discuss and deliberate such as Harvesting the Bio-economy, Enhancing Food Production & Security etc. The next Annual Session is aimed towards discussing these issues in detail at NAARM, Hyderabad, with the participation of many leaders of Indian science. Let us join hands to serve our motherland with devotion and dedication.
Seeking your kind cooperation in all the endeavours of the Academy,
With good wishes for the entire scientific fraternity-
(G. Padmanaban) President, NASI
vii CONTENTS Page Nos. 1. Executive Summary………………………………………………………………………… 1 2. Activities related to scientific awareness: 2.1.1 Scheduled Tribe Sub-Plan Programmes……………………………………. 6 2.1.2 Science Communication Activities …………………………………… 8 2.1.3 ―Ba & Bapu‖ Programmes on the auspicious occasion of their 150th Birth Anniversary ……………………………………………… 17 2.1.4 Celebrating 125th Birth Anniversary of Professor Meghnad Saha ……………… 19 2.1.5 National Conference on Technological Empowerment of Women………………………………………………………… 20 2.1.6 88th Annual Session and Symposium on ‗Science, Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development‘,………………………………..... 22 2.1.7 Prototype of the ‗Ganga-gallery‘ on ‗Parvasi Bharatya Divas‘………………….... 23 2.2. Activities related to Scientific Research 2.2.1 A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of M.N. Saha Distinguished Professor………………………………………… 26 2.2.2 Report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of J.C. Bose Distinguished Chair ………………………………………...... 29 2.2.3 A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI-ICMR chair on Public Health Research…………………………… 30 2.2.4 A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI-DST Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair………………………… 32 2.2.5 A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI-Platinum Jubilee Fellow…………………………………………….. 34 2.2.6 Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI Honorary Scientist …………….. 37 2.2.7 Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellows………………………………………………………. 58 3. Publications of the Academy...... 122 4. Memorial Lecture Awards ...... 126 5. NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellowships………………...... 127 6. Recognitions/Awards (A) NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awardee………… 127 (B) NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awardees……… 128 (C) NASI-SCOPUS Awardees/ NASI- Springer Award… 129 (D) NASI-Swarna Jayanti Puraskar/ NASI-Springer Awardee………… 129/130 7.Fellowship and Membership…………………………………………………………… 131 8.Obituary……………………………………………………………………………………. 131 9.Council 2018 & 2019………………………………………………………………….. 132 10.Meetings…………………………………………………………………………………... 135 11.Organizational Chart……………………………………………………………………... 136 12.Finance…………………………………………………………………………………….. 137 13.Chapters of the Academy……………………………………………………………… 138 14.Building & Dr. Sir Padampat Singhania Library………………………………...... 139 15.Acknowledgements……………………………………………………………………… 139 Annexures I. Fellows elected during 2018;and Foreign Fellows elected during 2018 II. Members admitted during 2018 III. Audited Statement of Accounts for the Year Ending March 2019 IV. Picturesque view of the NASI-Local Chapter‘s Activities 1. Executive Summary
Major Accomplishments The mandate of the Academy is ‗Science and Society‘ as coined by its founder Prof. Meghnad Saha, a great scientist, visionary and the then Professor of Physics at the University of Allahabad. The Past Presidents of the Academy, namely Prof. M. S. Swaminathan, Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, Prof. S. K. Joshi, Prof. Ashok Misra, Prof. Asis Datta, Dr. V. P. Kamboj, Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Prof. Jai Pal Mittal and Prof. Akhilesh K. Tyagi have been taking keen interest in the development of Science in general and the Academy, in particular. The Academy was also nurtured by Late Prof. M. G. K. Menon, Prof. A. K. Sharma and Dr. V. P. Sharma- Past Presidents, NASI. The academy has a Council; and during the year (2018-19) of the report, Prof Anil Kakodkar, Former Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission and Prof. G. Padmanaban, Former Director, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, steered the activities of NASI as its Presidents, respectively in the year 2018 and 2019. The Academy is striving hard to promote Science & Technology by regularly organizing several activities with the help and support of its Fellows and Members, and the major (financial) support of the DST, GoI, New-Delhi. During the year of the report, the following activities were undertaken -
Publications a) NASI published the Proceedings of NASI, Sec. A & B, each in IV parts and National Academy Science Letters in VI parts, in collaboration with the Springer India Pvt. Ltd. National Academy Science Letters received Impact Factor (IF) as 0.519 in 2017 from Thomson Reuters; about 250 papers were received from twenty five countries. Proceeding NASI- Sec. A received Impact Factor (IF) as 0.754 in 2017 from Thomson Reuters; about 200 papers were received from thirteen countries. The Proceeding NASI- Sec. B received Cite Score as 0.62 in 2017 from Scopus; about 400 papers were received from nineteen countries. Special Issue of PNASI, Sec. A on ―Lasers for biomedical and material processing applications‖ was published in 2018. b) Indian Science, its Competitive Strength and its Relevance to National Needs (a report by the NASI Study Group), was published and sent to different agencies. c) „Proceedings of the Mega-event including significant recommendations‘ were also published; and being sent to all concerned.
1 d) The 9 volumes on the History of Science in India were distributed to the concerned government and non-government agencies for dissemination of knowledge; the ‗Vision Document‘ on Women in Science was also distributed. e) Three reports on Nutritional Survey & Analysis (in collaboration with ICMR- NIN, Hyderabad) on the rural/semi-urban population of Allahabad, Hyderabad and Vadodara, were published after extensive work in these regions in last three years.
Science Communication Activities ● The highlights of these activities were ‗Children Science Meet‟, „Summer & Winter Schools‟, „Vocational Training Programmes‟, „Teachers‟ Training Workshops‟, „Scientific Writing Contest‟, „Vigyan, Jal & Health Chaupals‟, „Seminars‟ and celebration of the National Technology Day, the National Science Day, the National Mathematics Day and the World Environment Day etc. The Academy also encouraged the teachers for out-of-the-class science activities by recognizing their talent and giving away NASI-Science Teacher‟s Awards to them. ● NASI‟s 20 Chapters spread across India, organized hundreds of science communication activities in and around their respective regions throughout the year. More than 20,000 students and teachers benefitted from these activities. ● One Science Awareness Programme (relating to health issues) was organized for the Army personnel at Guwahati.
Activities under Scheduled Tribe Sub-Plan Programmes An innovative programme launched under this head during the year 2017-18 for improving the socio-economic status of the Scheduled Tribes, has now spread in 20 regions of our country, under Prof. Manju Sharma, Chairperson, NASI-New Initiatives. This is aimed towards - Bioeconomy for the Scheduled Tribes: Emphasis has been given on Bioresources and biodiversity development, conservation and utilization, as well as on Value addition. S&T Interventions: For ensuring Safe Water and Sanitation, eradicating Malnutrition, Malaria and other communicable diseases, etc. Data accumulation, analysis and utilization: Especially on the vast knowledge bank of ethnic medical practices and ethos, as well as the wide spread biodiversity of the tribal areas.
S&T Entrepreneurship development ● Training programs for entrepreneurs – To inculcate the spirit of entrepreneurship in the youth and in line with the National Mission Programmes of Skill Development and Start Up India, NASI organised several programmes; young, potential candidates interested in entrepreneurship benefited from these programmes. ● Awareness and Training – on Nutrition, Safe drinking water, Health & hygiene etc. A mixed participation of rural and urban population was ensured. This was included in the spirit of ―Swasth Bharat Mission‖. ● Safe drinking water and pollution abatement - especially for the rural areas and municipal workers; it was included in the spirit of ―Swachh Bharat Mission‖.
Sensitization Programmes for Women Researchers/Scientists After organising 25 workshops on Technological Empowerment of Women in different parts of the country during the last 5years, the Academy organised a Mega Event under the leadership of Prof. Manju Sharma, Past President, NASI, on March 8-9, 2018 with Dr Harsh Vardhan, Hon‟ble Minister for Science & Technology,
2 Govt. of India, as the Chief Guest, and about 1000 women scientists as participants; the ‗Proceedings of the Mega-event including significant recommendations‘ has also been published and sent to all concerned. Recently, other workshops with more than 350 women scientists were organized at AIIMS, Rishikesh and NASI, Prayagraj, respectively on May 25-26, 2018 and March 8-9, 2019. Prof. G. Padmanaban, Prof. Satya Deo, Prof. Rakesh Bhatnagar, Prof. Sneh Bhargava, Prof. Kasturi Datta, Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Prof. Smita Mahale, Prof. Veena Tandon, Prof. Bina Ravi, Prof. Suchitra Banerjee and several other distinguished scientists/speakers graced the occasion on March 8-9, 2019.
Annual Session/Symposia/Seminars & Scientific Discussions The 88th Annual Session of NASI and a Symposium on „Science, Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development‟ were jointly organized by Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya (MGCGV) & Deendayal Research Institute (DRI), Chitrakoot, Satna, M. P. on Dec. 6-8, 2018, as a part of the celebration of 150th Birth Anniversary of „Ba & Bapu‟ and 125th Birth
Anniversary of Prof. Meghnad Saha. More than 600 researchers and scientists participated in each of these events. Other seminars/symposia were also organised by NASI and its several Chapters, especially to celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary of ‗Ba & Bapu‘ and 125th Birth Anniversary of Prof. Meghnad Saha.
Fellowship / Membership To recognize the outstanding scientific contributions of the scientists, the Academy awards every year the prestigious Fellowship/Membership to some of them. More than 100 scientists working in different areas of Science & Technology were selected from all across the country in the year 2018. It also awarded a few Foreign Fellowships to scientists who are working in different countries and have collaborated with scientists from India.
Recognition and Awards The following awards were given in the year 2018: NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awards for the Application Oriented Innovations covering both Physical and Biological Sciences to six distinguished scientists; NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awards to about dozen young scientists/researchers in the fields of Biological/Physical/ Chemical Sciences; 12th NASI Scopus Awards to 9 young scientists/researchers; NASI-Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellowships; Professor M. G. K. Menon Memorial Award; NASI – Swarna Jayanti Puruskars for Best Paper Presentation to about half a dozen young scientists/researchers, in the 88th Annual Session; NASI – Springer Awards for Best Paper Presentation to about half a dozen young scientists/researchers, in the Annual Session (started in 2015 in collaboration with the Springer India Pvt. Ltd.); Memorial Lecture Awards to about 15 eminent scientists; NASI – Science and Maths Teacher Awards by NASI HQ & Chapters to many teachers.
Singhania Library Library services were enriched through digitization of the library and subscribing more books. The library is connected to National Knowledge 3 Network (NKN); Internet facility is being provided to the students and research scholars free of cost.
Handing-over of Brahmaputra Gallery to the Govt. of Assam at Guwahati, Assam; and establishment of Cauvery Gallery at Mysuru Following the establishment of Ganga Gallery in the year 2011 at NASI Headquarters, Allahabad,the Academy established another river gallery on Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam in 2015; which is now being handed over to the Govt. of Assam; but it will remain as the joint property of NASI and Assam Govt. The work on the third gallery on River Cauvery has also been completed at Mysuru, Karnataka with the major support from the Government of Karnataka. Recently, a prototype of the ‗Ganga-gallery‘ was created at ‗Pravasi Bharatiya Divas‘, held on Jan. 21-23, 2019 at Varanasi; appreciated by several NRIs.
NASI-Chapters The year 2018-19 witnessed the reorganization/revitalization of NASI Local Chapters, now spread all across the country, representing almost all major regions of our nation. These Chapters (total 20) also carrying the mandate of the Academy organized several science-society programmes around their respective regions in collaboration with the local bodies/institutions/agencies.
4 Activities
5 2.1. Activities related to scientific awareness 2.1.1. Activities under Scheduled Tribe Sub-Plan Programmes
An innovative programme launched during the year 2017-18 for improving the socio-economic status of the Scheduled Tribes, has now spread in 20 regions of our country, under Prof. Manju Sharma, Chairperson, NASI-New Initiatives. This is aimed towards - Bioeconomy for the Scheduled Tribes: Emphasis has been given on Bioresources and biodiversity development, conservation and utilization, as well as on Value addition. S&T Interventions: For ensuring Safe Water and Sanitation, eradicating Malnutrition, Malaria and other communicable diseases, etc. Data accumulation, analysis and utilization: Especially on the vast knowledge bank of ethnic medical practices and ethos, as well as the wide spread biodiversity of the tribal areas. Several Awareness Camps with welfare motive to solve the problems related to Malnutrition, Anemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, Maternal and infant mortality, Safe- water scarcity, Contaminated disease problems, Birth Control Measures, Use and documentation of herbal/ethnic medicines, Problems of Ethnocentrisms, Anthropological Intervention for protecting the socio-scientific values of their multidimensional Cultural Ethos etc., have been undertaken involving the tribal communities, NGOs working in those areas and the Panchayat/Local Bodies support. NASI has also started receiving encouraging reports from different parts regarding the scientific intervention to solve these aforesaid problems. For example, training and awareness programmes were emphasized and area specialists have given lectures with one to one interaction. As for the workshop in Portblair, Bhubaneswar, Jharkhand, North-East, etc. there were very encouraging response.
The approved/running Projects for S&T intervention for the welfare of scheduled tribes under ‘NASI-ST Plan’ (FY 2017-18)
Sr.no. Title of the projectinitiated by NASI Name of the Institution&Fellow/Members/Scientists associated with the programme 1. Awareness/Sensitization/ Training Programmes in NASI-NER Chapter, Shilong the Tribal areas of Northeast India Dr. S R Joshi 2. Health, Hygiene & Nutrition Solutions NASI-Jharkhand Chapter Dr. Arvind Sinha 3. Enabling Tribal farmers for enhancement of CIMAP, Lucknow agriculture income through cultivation and Dr. R K Srivastava processing of suitable aromatic crops 4. Participatory observation to validate the knowledge Govt. P. G. College, Satna (M.P.) and bank of traditional and tribal healers of Balaghat Deendayal Research Institute, district, to prepare the ethno-medical register Chitrakoot. Documentation of Ethno-medicinal knowledge and Dr. Rashmi Singh 5. conservation in selected tribal villages of Chitrakoot, District Satna (M.P.)
6 6. Training programmes/workshops for skill- and Biotech Park, Lucknow entrepreneurial development of the tribal youth, Prof. Pramod Tandon utilizing rich bio-resources of the Country 7. A training program of Vermicomposting for Indira Gandhi National Tribal Scheduled Tribes of Amarkantak region: An University, Amarkantak (MP) initiative towards enhancing Bioeconomy Dr. Vijay Paramanik
The approved/running Projects for S&T intervention for the welfare of scheduled tribes under ‘NASI-ST Plan’ (FY 2018-19)
Sr.no. Title of the project Name of Institute & PI 8. Livelihood and nutritional security of tribal farming ICAR-Central Agricultural Research community of A & N Islands exploring native Institute, Port Blair animal genetic resources. Dr.M.S.Kundu Securing livelihood of Nicobari tribal communities Dr.B.Augustine Jerard 9. of A & N Islands through sustainable horticultural interventions 10. Commercial Fruit Processing for Development of Himalayan Environmental Studies And nutri Food Products for Combating Malnutrition Conservation Organization (HESCO) 8 Sustainable Livelihood enhancement through M.S.SwaminathanDr.Kiran Negi Research 11. AwarenessEmpowering perogramme Tribal Women on drinking in Koraput water quality Foundation,UCOST, Dehradun Taramani, Chennai PI- Dr and its impact on health condition in tribal IsraelDr.D.P.Uniyal Oliver King 9 inhabitants Technological of Garhwal Empowerment Region, Uttarkhandof Schedule Tribe Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (ST) Women (Women‟s University), Tirupati PI- 12. Communitythrough Value Bused Added Training Food to processing ST Youth onin Biomass Dr.Ch.M.KumariSchool of Life Science, Chitturi North Conversionpromoting and healthy Utilization lifestyle for Sustainable Maharashtra University, Jalgaon 10 Agriculture,Workshops Green on Augmenting Energy and Local Biotechnology Resources .for ICMRDr.Navin-National D.Dandi Institute of Traditional Primary Healthcare and Better Livelihood Medicine, Belagavi among Tribals PI- Dr. S.L. Hoti 13. Moringa Leaves formulation: An effective Dr. Satish Vitthal Patil preparation for the eradication of malnutrition in tribal Water quality and geomedical Health hazard Prof. S. N. Patil 14. management in Tribal Pockets of Nandurbar district of Maharashtra state
15. Documenting indigenous medicinal knowledge of Science and Technology Resources Centre the tribal and forest fringe community in (STRC), Gondwana University Gadchiroli Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra Dr (Mrs) Vrunda Kate 16. Skill and Entrepreneurial Development of the Biotech Park, Lucknow- Prof. Pramod Tribal Youth Tandon 17. Health & Hygiene Awareness Program in the NASI -Lucknow Chapter Tribal areas of Lakhimpur-Kheeri district of Uttar Dr. Manvendra Tripathi Pradesh 18. Capacity development of tribal populations in CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow Chitrakoot region for utilization of local Dr. S.K. Barik and bioresources for improved livelihood Dr. Sharad Srivastava
19. Lifestyle intervention program on health seeking Dr.Aparup Das and behavior, malnutrition and malaria prevention in Dr. Dinesh Kumar Ashram school tribal children of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh
7 2.1.2. Science Communication Activities
Swasthya/Vigyan Chaupal (At Gajadharpur, Manda, Koraon, Allahabad on April 16, 2018) Attended by 350 villagers, including local MLA, SDM, Gram Pradhan, BDO, Medical Superintendent, 3 Medical Doctors/Officers (with 3 lab technicians); addressed by Prof. U. C. Srivastava, Dr. Niraj Kumar, Dr. Santosh Shukla, Medical Supertd., and the SDM. Medical Examinations were done and advices were given to about 150 villagers. Photographs of the Guests addressing the Swasthya/Vigyan Chaupal (Highlights: The goal of Swasthya/Vigyan Chaupal, is to spread the message of Preventive and Promotive care of Health.)
Photographs taken during the Chaupal - People‟s participation & Health check-up Two Science Extension Lectures were delivered on April 24, 2018 at Prayagraj by Prof. Satya Deo and Dr B. Tripathi - The Science Extension Lecture Series was organised to motivate the young students from schools and colleges to opt for higher studies of their choice. By attending these lectures, the students from different socio economic background get a chance to know the past, present and the recent developments in Science, Engineering, Medicine and Technology. The programme was conducted by Prof. Satya Deo, G.S NASI and Dr. B.Tripathi. (Highlights: The programme was conducted to motivate the students to opt science as a career.) National Technology Day The National Technology Day was organized by NASI on May 11, 2018; and its theme for the year was „Clean &
Celebration of National Technology Day at NASI, Prayagraj. 8 Green Technology‟. The participants included UG and PG research students as well as the faculty members from the University of Allahabad. Prof. P. Nagabhushan, Director, IIIT, Prayagraj graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The distinguished speakers including Prof. S. L. Srivastava, Coordinator, Science Communication Programme of NASI and Prof. U. C. Srivastava, delivered lectures on the Importance of NTD & development of technology in India; Prof. Ravindra Dhar, University of Allahabad shared his views on Advancement in Technologies. Prof. Krishna Misra addressed on Indigenous Green Technologies. Dr. Niraj Kumar, ES NASI, Prayagraj conducted the function. (Highlights: More than 200 participants. Students were enthused for skill enhancement.) National Workshop on Physics (NWUPT-2018) at Kanpur from May 20th -25th, 2018- • Six days workshop for enthusiastic school teachers from all over the country was organized in Sopan Ashram, Kanpur. • Prof. H.C.Verma, former Professor, IIT, Kanpur was the coordinator of the programme. • The teachers were provided training to understand the depth of certain topics in Physics as well as teaching methodology. (Highlights: About 30 teachers were given hands-on-training to conduct 150 low cost experiments.) World Environment Day - NASI celebrated the World Environment Day on June 5, 2018. Prof. Jitendra Pandey, Professor of Environmental Sciences, BHU, Varanasi, Prof. Satya Deo, Prof. M.C. Chattopadhya, Prof Krishna Misra, Prof. S.L. Srivastava & Prof. U.C. Srivastava were the key note speakers on the occasion. While elucidating the significance of the programme, Prof. Krishna Misra stated that the World Environment Day is celebrated to increase the awareness on the emerging environmental issues like waste disposal, deforestation, marine pollution, global warming etc. Speakers encouraged the participants to actively participate in the celebration and become an active agent in developing environmental safety measures. They also encouraged them to make their nearby surrounding, safe and clean to enjoy safer, cleaner and more prosperous future. (Highlights: Students took oath to conserve the nature.) Summer School-2018 NASI organized the ‗Summer School‘ for the intermediate college science students on June 11-20, 2018. The programme was organized in two phases / parts; the first phase was organized from June 11-16, 2018 at NASI HQ in
Prayagraj while the concluding / second Prof. S. L. Srivastava, delivering lecture at NASI, Prayagraj. View of the Participants during Summer School 2018 at NASI, Prayagraj.
9 Prof. Satya Deo, delivering lecture at NASI, Prayagraj during Summer School part was observed from June 16- 20, 2018 at Lucknow. Around 300 participants from various schools of Prayagraj and other cities/states including the science teachers, attended the programme. The students were enthused by the eminent scientists from various institutions, who delivered interesting talks elucidating various concepts/ phenomena of science. The scientific concepts were further illustrated with demonstrations and hands-on experiments by the scientists. The Inaugural Session of the pogramme commenced with the welcome address by Prof. U.C Srivastava & Prof. Ravindra Dhar, conveners of the programme. Prof. Ravindra Dhar, briefed about the schedule and various activities to be held during the Summer School. Prof. S. L. Srivastava, Coordinator, Science Communication Programme, NASI delivered the Presidential Remarks, while Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, NASI proposed the vote of thanks. During the technical sessions, the eminent scientists Prof. C.K. Dwivedi, J K Institute of Applied Physics, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj and Prof. Ravindra Dhar, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj enlightened the students; and also demonstrated experiments on various scientific concepts. Dr. R. K. Awasthi, Agra and Mr. Pramod Parashar, Hathras covered the topic of Physical Sciences with experimental demonstration and interaction with the students. The students of Mathematics group were taught under the guidance of Prof. Satya Deo, NASI Senior Scientist, HRI, Prayagraj, Dr. B. Tripathi, CMP Degree College, Prayagraj and Prof. Rajeev Srivastava, MNNIT, Prayagraj; while the students of Biological Sciences were enlightened by the lecture of Prof. U. C. Srivastava, Prof. Krishna Misra, Prof. D. K. Chauhan, Department of Botany, University of Allahabad. Dr. Rupali Sethi, UoA, Praygraj, Dr. R.C. Mukherjee, ECC, Praygraj, Dr. Saurabh Jain, Hathras, Mr. Sushil Kumar Dwivedi, KV, Lucknow, Dr. Mohd. Masood, IASc, Prayagraj, Mr. Ajay Pratap Singh, Dept. of Geology & Mining, Lucknow and Mr. Udit Kumar, Prayagraj also delivered lectures and gave practical demonstrations on the concepts related to Biological Sciences. The students also visited Jawahar Planetarium, Allahabad, where Dr. Pramod Pande, Former Director of Jawahar Planetarium Allahabad explained intresting facts about the universe and celestial bodies. The second part of the ‗Summer School‘ was addressed by Medical Experts Dr. L.S. Ojha, Dr. Kartikeya Sharma, Dr. Ashish Tandon and Dr. B. P. Agarawal. The students were also taken to Physics, Chemistry, Architecture, Pharmacy, Electrical/Electronics, and Communication laboratories, where they were exposed to various experimental sessions. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks by Dr. Santosh Shukla, AES, NASI, Prayagraj. (Highlights: Hands- on -Training imparted to the students, who also visited different esteemed institutions.)
Two days Workshop for the Tribal population of Uttarakhand, at Chakrata, Dehradun on June 27-28, 2018
“Workshop on Sensitization and Awareness of Science and Technology, for the development of Tribes of Uttarakhand” was jointly organized by UCOST and NASI Uttrakhand Chapter on 27th-28th June at Chakrata, Dehradun. A combination of presentations with interactions was used to increase the awareness of ther tribal population of the nearby areas.
10 Deliberations were made by distinguished NASI scientists on different topics of science & technology for the rural mass. Some important topics covered were Gender sensitization: changing the mindset; Women Reproductive health: issues, advancements and challenges; NASI scientists(L-R)Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Prof. Manju Sharma, Prof. A. N. Purohit, Prof. U.C. Technological empowerment of srivastava & Prof Rajendra Dobhal. women for social development, etc. Prof. Manju Sharma proposed to initiate a ‗Women Empowerment and Science Centre‘ in Uttarakhand with the help of Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), Dehradun and NASI Allahabad. The workshop provided an opportunity to the rural students and general mass, to actively interact with eminent NASI scientists. All the sessions not only provided an interactive atmosphere for young students of rural areas, but also helped answer some of their queries related to occupation and entrepreneurship development.
Prof. Manju Sharma proposed to initiate a „Science Centre‟ in Chakrata, Uttarakhand Experts/speakers • Prof. Manju Sharma, Past President, NASI; and Chairperson, NASI-Schedule Tribal Programme • Prof. A.N.Purohit, Former Vice-Chancellor, HNB Garhwal University; & Chairman, NASI-Uttarakhand Chapter • Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Head, Dept. of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi;& General Secretary (OS),NASI • Prof. U.C Srivastava Emeritus Professor, University of Allahabad; and Treasurer, NASI • Dr. Rajendra Dobhal, Director General, UCOST, Dehradun • Dr. D V Singh, Professor & Head, Dept. of Livestock Production Management,CoVAS, Pant Nagar • Dr. R S Rawal, Director, G B Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora • Dr. Surekha Kishore, Dean (Academics) and Head, Dept. of Community & Family Medicine, AIIMS, Rishikesh • Dr. Mahesh Bhatt, Former Surgeon Dehradun, Govt. of Uttarakhand • Dr Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, NASI, Prayagraj • Ms. Archana Pant, Young Women Scientist, NASI
(Highlights: Several Fellows of the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), and more than 100 students and villagers participated in the workshop.)
11 Glimpse of „Science and Technology Sensitization and Awareness workshop for the development of Tribes of Uttarakhand‟
Awareness Programme for Defence Personnel NASI organized a one-day Awareness Programme for Defence Personnel on July, 28th 2018 at 33rd Bn ITBP, Guwahati. The welcome speech was delivered by the Dr. Niraj Kumar, ES, NASI. Prof. Prof. S.R. Joshi, NEHU, addressing the gathering on ‗Activities of the NASI in & around the N-E Region‘, inaugurated the programme. The eminent scientists interacted with the defence personnel and answered their queries. They discussed the following topics – Nutrition (Anti- oxidant - prevention is better than cure) with Prof. U. C. Srivastava, GS, NASI; Health related issues with Dr. (Col.) Rakesh puri, Shillong; Bioeconomy and Bioresources with Dr. Sanchita Chaudhary, Asst. General Manager, BCIL; and Malaria and other communicable diseases with Dr. Vas Dev, NASI Fellow.
(Highlights: More than 150 participants. Queries of Jawans were solved at their centre).
One day experimental Workshop focused on „Understanding Basic Principle of Physics‟ held on August 24, 2018 One day experimenal workshop for 10+2 level students of Prayagraj was organized by the Academy. The programme was inaugurated by Prof. S.L. Srivastava, Coordinator, Science Communication Programme, NASI. Prof. Ravindhra Dhar, Head Department of Material Science, UoA, addressed the students‖. Mr. Amit Bajpai, IIT, Kanpur demonstrated the experiments. At the end, an Mr. Amit Bajpai addressing students at Physics experimental skill test was also Workshop conducted.
(Highlights: More than 200 participants. Students were enthused for skill enhancement).
12 Workshops in schools to understand “Importance of Science in Daily Life”- LOK VIGYAN A series of workshop (Naveen Prayogon ki karyashala) in all over the country was organized by the Academy under the Coordinatorship of Prof. H.C.Verma, formerly Professor, IIT, Kanpur. The first programme was held on Sep.26, 2018 at Kanpur. Second workshop held on Oct.2, 2018 at Baraut by Mr. Mukul Rathi. Further programmes are being conducted in other parts of India.
A view of the lecture workshop on a theme - „Science in my Life‟
(Highlights: Students were enthused; and interacted with the speaker to understand the principles of Science in Daily life)
„Sustainable Development In India: Issues and Challenges‟ seminar on 27th - 28th November 2018 Science Faculty of S.S Khanna Girls Degree College in collaboration with The National Academy of Sciences, India successfully organized two days National seminar on 27th -28th November 2018.The seminar witnessed 230 registration from different Universities, Colleges and Research Institutes. The inaugural Session was graced by Hon‘ble Prof. I.K. Patro, Vice Chancellor, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, as the Chief Guest and Prof. A.S. Raghubanshi, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, BHU, Varanasi, as the Guest of Honour. Prof. U.C. Srivastava presided the session. In Valedictory session, Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, NASI welcomed the gathering and briefed on the aspects of sustainable development in India.
(Highlights: Young Women Scientists were enthused to come forward to take-up the challenges of sustainable development.)
NASI-TMC workshop at IIT Patna, on Dec. 17-18, 2018 on Coxeter Groups The Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Technology Patna in association with The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) & The Indian Mathematics Consortium, organized a ‗three-day Workshop on Coxeter Groups‟ which was held in the Department of Mathematics, IIT Patna on Dec. 17-18, 2018.
The inaugural function started at 9:00 AM on 17th December with welcome address by Dr. Ashish Kumar Upadhyay, Convener of the workshop. He welcomed all the dignitaries, scientists, researchers & students present in the seminar hall. The lectures formally started after the high tea with a Lecture by Prof. Satya Deo on
13 Co-hopficity of manifold groups. During the remaining part of the day Dr. Ritumoni Sarma (IIT Delhi) delivered his talk on finite reflection groups and later Prof. N.S.N. Sastry (former Professor ISI Bangalore and Prof. IIT Dharwad) addressed on Coxeter groups.
Further, Dr. Ritumoni Sarma covered the topics on finite reflection gorups in dimensions two and three, and fundamental regions. Prof. N.S.N. Sastry covered topics on Bruhat decomposition, Cayley graph of a system (G, S), Coxeter Matrix, Coxeter diagram, Coxeter system, (B, N) pairs, Roots, Walls, half spaces etc.
On the last day of program, i.e., on 19th December a short closing function was held immediately after the last class of Prof. Sastry in which feedback from all the participants were collected in a prescribed format and which are also available with the local convener. Dr. Sarma and Prof. Sastry were requested to say few words and they obliged by highlighting the importance of the topics covered in the program along with suggestions for future directions.
(Highlights: The aim of this workshop is to initiate participants into the area of Coxeter groups.)
Initiation of the workshop
(Left to Right) Dr. Niraj Kumar, Dr. Amit Kumar Verma, Dr. Satya Deo, Dr. N S N Sastry, Dr. Ritumoni Sharma on „two-day Workshop on Coxeter Groups‟
Vigyan Chaupal at Pratapgarh on Dec. 21, 2018 The Chaupal was attended by more than 500 students, teachers, villagers and the representatives of the local bodies. The experts were- Prof. U. C. Srivastava, Dr. Niraj Kumar, Dr. Archana Pant, Dr. A. F. Rizvi, Dr Dharmendra, and a few teachers. The theme was „Health, Environment and Nutrition‟. Interaction continued for about 4 hrs.
(Highlights: Discussion held on Policy Issues on Health, Environment and Nutrition.)
National Mathematics Day The Academy, organized a two-day Workshop on Finite Fields and Galois Theory to celebrate the National Mathematics Day on Dec. 22-23, 2018 at its head-quarters at Prayagraj on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of an eminent mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. The main objective of the workshop was to arrange a series of popular lectures on modern mathematics 14 influenced by S. Ramanujan, such as Finite fields, Polynomials and their irreducibility, Splitting fields, Construction by ruler and compass, Galois Theory, solvability by radicals etc. It was attended by more than 250 students/researchers/teachers from all across the country; they were from IITs, IISERs, NITs, and several prestigious universities of India. The inaugural function started with welcome address by Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, NASI & Local Coordinator of the workshop. He welcomed all the dignitaries, scientists, researchers & students present in the auditorium. Prof. Satya Deo, convener of the workshop, Emeritus Scientist at HRI, Prayagraj and former Vice-Chancellor, APS University, Rewa, explained the main objectives of the workshop. He threw light on the inspiring life of Ramanujan & his work on Number Theory. He also talked about how Srinivasa Ramanujan became the great mathematician and one of the youngest Fellows of the Royal Society. He told that in 2011, the Government of India declared 22nd December as National Mathematics Day in the memory of Srinivasa Ramanujan. Prof. Ramji lal, eminent mathematician and former Head of the University of Allahabad (UoA), expressed that the life of Ramanujan is an inspiration for young researchers and scientists as Ramanujan worked with all odds; but proved his geniosity. According to Prof. H.K. Mukherjee, Mathematics Department, NEHU, Ramanujan was a great mathematician in true sense. Prof. S. S. Khare, Mathematics Department, NEHU, Shillong, pointed out that the duty of a teacher is to identify the talent of the student and nurture as per her/his potential. The vote of thanks was proposed by Shri. A.K. Srivastava, Dy. Executive Secretary of the Academy. Prof. K A Suresh, FNASc and Prof. Ravindra Dhar, MNASc also graced the occasion. The speakers- Prof. Satya Deo, Prof. Ramji lal, Prof. S. S. Khare and Prof. H.K. Mukherjee delivered lectures on Geometric constructions and Galois Theory, Finite fields and Galois theory, Solvability of polynomial equations by radicals and Some Aspects of Galois theory, respectively in the first day of the workshop. The workshop continued on 23rd Dec. 2018; in which the lectures were delivered by the aforesaid distinguished mathematicians, as well as by Prof. Ravindra Shukla on Primitive Element Theorem and some Computations. Prof. Bhupesh Tripathi, UoA interacted with the students on both the days. All the participants appreciated the course, content and lectures delivered in the workshop. Shri A. K. Srivastava, Dy. ES, NASI, Sri B. P. Singh & Dr. Pavitra Tandon, AES, NASI, Ms. Archana Pant and other staff members as Mr. Shaktisheel Chaturvedi, Mr. Ankit Trivedi, Mr. Deepak Verma, Mr. Raghavendra Pratap, Mr. Navin Srivastava, Mr. Rajeev Mishra, Dr. Smita Venkatesh, Dr. Vriddhi Nigam, Ms. Rashmi Misra, Mrs. Meera Shukla were present during the two days workshop; and supported the programme with their active participation.
(Highlights: Celebration of National Mathematics Day; training imparted to young mathematicians)
15 A view of the dais during the Mathematics Workshop
Winter School NASI organized a six-day Science Education & Awareness Programme from Dec. 25th – 30th, 2018. The programme witnessed the presence of many eminent speakers. Prof. Satya Deo, General Secretary, NASI inaugurated the School. Prof. Krishna Misra, IIIT, Allahabad, spoke on ‗New Dimensions in Chemistry‘. Prof. Ravindra Dhar, Head, Department of Material Science, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, also shared his views. Next technical session was addressed by the exsperts of Biology group, as Prof. U. C Srivastava, Prof. S.M. Prasad and Dr. Vriddhi Nigam; and in Math‘s group lectures were delivered by Dr. Bhupesh Kumar Tripathi and Dr. Mohd. Avesh. The next day programme held on Dec 26th, 2018 at NASI HQ by Mr. Pramod Parashar, Aligarh, Dr. Nikhil Jain, Agra, Dr. Saurabh Jain and team; and Dr. Ajay Pratap Singh, Directorate of Geology & Mining, Lucknow gave demonstration on ‗Understanding Basic Principles of Physics‘ during the programme. On Dec 27th, 2018 at NASI HQ, Lectures were delivered by Shri Pramod Pande, Former Director, Jawahar Planetarium, Allahabad, and Prof. D. K. Chauhan, Deptt. of Botany, UoA, Prayagraj. After that the students visited the Ganga Gallery at NASI, Prayagraj. Next Day on 28th Dec, 2018, the Students moved to Lucknow. Dr. R. K. Awasthi, Agra gave a demonstrative lecture on ‗Understanding basic principles of Physics‘ in Regional Science City, Lucknow during the programme held at Regional Science City, Lucknow. Dr. Manvendra Tripathi, Department of Health, UP, Lucknow, addressed on Vector Borne Diseases & its Management. Dr. Raj Mehrotra, Project Director, RSC, Lucknow gave a demonstrative lecture on ‗Wonders of Science‘ during the programme held on Dec 30th, 2018 at Regional Science City, Lucknow. (Highlights: About 250 students participated with their teacher escorts from UP, MP, Bihar, Chhatisgarh etc., they were inspired to learn science with fun).
National Science Day National Science Day was celebrated on Feb. 27 to March 01, 2019 at NASI, with Prof. H.C Verma former Professor IIT, Kanpur, as the Chief Guest, who also delivered an illustrative & informative lecture on this occasion. About 200 students, teachers and other distinguished guests attended the programme. Mr. Sushil Kumar Pandey was awarded with the NASI-Science Teachers Award; the programme was also addressed by Prof. Satya Deo, Prof. S. L. Srivastava, Prof. P.K.Seth, Prof. Krishna Misra, Prof. U.S. Tiwari, Prof. T. Lahiri, Dr Purnima Sharma, Shri Pramod Pande, Prof. K. N. Uttam and Dr. Niraj Kumar. (Highlights: Science Teacher Award and National Level Scientific Paper Writing)
16 Prof. H. C. Verma during NSD 2019 celebration on a theme- „Science for the people and the people for Science‟.
Biweekly seminar on Mathematics Recently, on an initiative of Prof. Satya Deo, GS, NASI and Prof. Ramji Lal, UoA a biweekly seminar was started for the UG/PG and research students of Mathematics. The programme is being attended by a large number of teachers also. Fellows/Resource Persons of NASI are contributing to this activity regularly. (Highlights: The students were enlightened on the various concepts of Mathematics; models/exhibits were also displayed to illustrate/demonstrate the concepts).
2.1.3..“Ba & Bapu” Programmes on the auspicious occasion of their 150th Birth Anniversary
A Glimpse of the celebration of 150th Birth Anniversary of Ba & Bapu
This year (2018-19) happens to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the Father of our Nation, Mahatma Gandhi (Bapu), and his wife Kasturbai "Kasturba" Mohandas Gandhi (Ba). The NASI-Council, therefore, decided to celebrate their birth anniversary through out the year (2018-19); to start with, the Inaugural Programme was organised in a village (Shankargarh) nearby Prayagraj on 2nd October 2018. The programme was started with ―Deep Prajwalan‖ by Prof. Manju Sharma, Past President of NASI, and Convener of the programme. Prof. Satya Deo, General Secretary (HQ), NASI, welcomed the guests and the participants (about 1000 in
17 number). Prof. Paramjit Khurana, GS (OS), NASI talked about the Science-Society programme of NASI, Dr. V. P. Kamboj, Past President, NASI spoke on General Science Awareness, and Dr. P.K. Seth, Former CEO, Biotech Park, Lucknow, on Health & Hygiene. The main objective of conducting the programme was to create awareness about the principles of Gandhi ji and how his concept of Satyagraha can be better explained to the students and youth who are the future of our nation. Dr Niraj Kumar conducted the programme; Dr. Santosh Shukla, AES, NASI, briefly mentioned about the Science Communication Programmes of NASI, and Ms. Archana Pant, YWS, NASI, briefed about the Women‘s program of NASI. Shri K.B. Pandeya, former VC, MGCGVV and Dr. Anil Tripathi, Director, CIMAP, Lucknow also addressed on this auspicious occasion. Dr.S.L. Hoti, Director, NITM, Belagavi, launched the CD of S&T for Tribal Welfare, and in the end Sri A.P. Singh, Principal (Raja Kamlakar I College) felicitated the distinguished guests. The vote of thanks was given by Sri.A.K. Srivastava, Dy. ES, NASI. It was also decided to dedicate the 88th Annual Session of NASI and the Symposium on „Science, Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development‟ to Mahatma Gandhi, on December 6-8, 2018 at Chitrakoot, Satna, M.P. The symposium on ‗Science, Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development‘ is also being organized specially in the rural area itself to directly interact with the rural people, as well as the scientists working in the area to discuss, deliberate and devise the scientific strategies in more meaningful manner, so that the heart of our nation (Gramin Bharat) could become „Swacch, Swasth and Samarth‟. The Academy‘s mandate is “Science and Society”, and the academy undertakes various programs under this banner; the Local Chapters of NASI also took up one or the other activities related to Health/Sanitation and Nutrition, the areas with which both „Ba & Bapu‟ were deeply concerned. The excerpts of the decisions are- All Local Chapters to be involved and would be asked to have at least one lecture and programs on Swatchh Bharat and Swasthya Bharat in rural/tribal areas . Nutrition Programme (its implementation part now) in collaboration with NIN, Hyderabad, will be extended for Allahabad and Ahmedabad. Two Scholarships be created - one for girl students and the other for boys. Two awards also to be instituted specially one for a women scientist for rural development. These should be Rs.50,000 with a gold medal. The nominations can be invited through the Fellowship. (Highlights: Discussion held on our social responsibilities as citizens of India to help fulfill Gandhiji's vision of Clean and Educated India)
Health Check-up & Prize Distribution were also organised during the programme on Oct. 02, 2018
18 2.1.4. Celebrating 125th Birth Anniversary of Professor Meghnad Saha
To celebrate the 125th Birth Anniversary of the Founder President Prof. Meghnad Saha, the Academy decided to organise the celebration programmes through out the year at the Head quarters, as well as at 20 Chapters of the NASI. During October 6-7, 2018, a 2-day seminar on ‗Celebrating 125th Birth Anniversary of Professor Meghnad Saha‘ was organized at the NASI, Prayagraj (Allahabad). Prof Satya Deo, GS, NASI welcomed the participants. Dr. Anil Kakodkar, the then President of NASI, spoke on ‗Carrying the legacy of Prof. Meghnad Saha Forward‘. Dr. Ajoy Ghatak, Convener of the program discussed the brief history of Prof. Meghnad Saha. He expressed that The National Academy of Sciences, India is the oldest science academy in India. In the December 1929, issue of the Allahabad University magazine, Professor Meghnad Saha (then Professor & Head of Physics at Allahabad University) published an article entitled 'A Plea for an Academy of Sciences‟ with the idea of establishing a forum for scientists, which would bring them together to discuss and find scientific solutions to the problems of the country. Subsequently, in 1930, The Academy of Sciences of United Provinces of Agra and Oudh was founded with the objectives to provide a national forum for the publication of research work carried out by Indian scientists and to provide opportunities for exchange of views among them and Professor Meghnad Saha was elected the first President of the academy. Later, the name of the academy was changed to The National Academy of Sciences, India. Further, Prof. Ghatak briefed that we are all aware of Professor Saha‘s Ionization Equation, which had a very important role in the study of astrophysics. As mentioned by Dr. Sam Kean …. after Saha provided equations to describe thermal ionization, other astronomers could determine related information, such as the precise temperatures of stars and the abundance of elements in side them. Thanks to Saha, humankind understood what stars were fiery balls of hydrogen for the very first time. In addition to carrying out outstanding research work which led to the Saha Ionization Equation (which many feel should have given him the Nobel Prize) and publishing many very important research papers, Professor Saha (a) made Allahabad University a world class university, (b) created the Institute of Nuclear Physics at Kolkata (presently known as Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics), (c) made IACS (Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science) a world class research organization, (d) created the Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute at Kolkata (e) and was responsible for the eventual creation of the Positional Astronomy Centre at Kolkata. In addition, Professor Saha not only created NASI, but he also played a very important role in the creation of what is now known as INSA (Indian National Science Academy) and, in the year 1935, along with Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, Professor Meghnad Saha established The Indian Science News Association (ISNA) publishing the journal Science and Culture every month. It is indeed amazing that one person could contribute so much to the development of our nation and it is very difficult to imagine what more he would have achieved had he not died at the early age of 63.
Dr. Ashoke Sen, FRS, HRI, Prayagraj, discussed the history of our universe and what role Saha‘s equation plays in its understanding. Technical session- I discussed on the topic of ―Professor Saha and his Ionization Equation‖; the keynote speakers of the session were Dr. S.K Joshi, former DG, CSIR (presently at NPL, New Delhi) and Dr.
19 Somak Raychaudhary, Director, IUCAA, pune. Technical session –II discussed on ―Application of Prof. Saha‘s work in plasma Physics & Nuclear Physics‖; the session was chaired by Dr. Ajoy Ghatak, Co-Chaired by Dr. Satya Deo, G.S NASI and the keynote speakers of the session were Dr. Arnab Rai Choudhuri, IISc, Bangalore & Dr. Anil Bhardwaj, PRL, Ahmedabad. Technical session III discussed on ―other Contributions of Prof. Saha as an Institution Builder: the Bengal scenario and Prof. Saha‘s Early Science‖, the speakers of this session were Dr. Debashis Mukherjee & Dr. Atri Mukhopadhyay. Technical session- IV was on Prof. Meghnad Saha Memorial Lectures by Dr. Sandip Trivedi on “Symmetries and The Birth of the Universe”, and Dr. Anurag Sharma on ―The Photonics Revolution‖. Technical session- V discussed on the topic of ―Prof. Saha and Society‖ and the speakers of this session were Dr. S.C. Dutta Roy, Formerly at IIT Delhi, who highlighted ―Prof. Saha as a human being‖, and Dr. Shaymal Bhadra, IACS, Kolkata, who spoke on ―Prof. Meghnad Saha and his contribution to Science and Society‖. In Technical session-VI Dr. Anirban Pathak, JIIT, Noida covered on ―Prof. Meghnad Saha: A Physicist‘s approach to social problem‖, and Dr. Palash Baran Pal, Calcutta University spoke on ‗Prof. Saha‘s work on Calendar Reforms‘. At last the session was concluded by remembering Prof. Saha‘s contribution at Allahabad, the keynote speakers of the session were Dr. M.C. Chattopadhya, Formerly at Allahabad University, Dr. Hari Prakash, Formerly at UoA and Dr. Ram Gopal, Formerly at UoA. Dr. Ravindra Dhar, Material Sc. Deptt. UOA & Member of NASI, delivered the vote of thanks to all the participants and the guests for celebrating and remembering the journey of Prof. Saha, and also thanked to Prof. Ajoy Ghatak alongwith members of the NASI, who played a significant role in planning the event. Nearly 450 people (comprising of college students, teachers, scientists from research and teaching institutions, and persons associated with NASI) attended the seminar and stayed on till the end.
(Highlights: The purpose of the seminar was to develop awareness among the young students & faculty about the great impact (both scientific and social) of the works of Prof. Meghnad Saha)
125th birth anniversary of Professor Meghnad Saha at Prayagraj on 6-7th October 2018; NASI guests and the dignitaries are on the dais during the Inaugural Function at Vigyan Parishad
2.1.5. National Conference on Technological Empowerment of Women NASI successfully organised a Mega Event on Technological Empowerment of Women under the leadership of Prof. Manju Sharma, Past President, NASI, on March 8-9, 2018 with Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Hon‘ble Minister for Science & Technology, Govt. of India, as the Chief Guest. The ‗Proceedings of the Mega- event including significant recommendations‘ has also been published, and sent to all concerned.
20 After that, other workshops with more than 350 women scientists were also organized at AIIMS, Rishikesh and NASI, Prayagraj, respectively on May 25-26, 2018 and March 8-9, 2019. Prof. G. Padmanaban, Prof. Satya Deo, Prof. Rakesh Bhatnagar, Prof. Sneh Bhargava, Prof. Kasturi Datta, Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Prof. Smita Mahale, Prof. Veena Tandon, Prof. Bina Ravi, Prof. Suchitra Banerjee and several other distinguished Prof. Manju Sharma delivering speech at AIIMS, Rishikesh scientists/speakers graced the occasion on March 8-9, 2019. Besides, the event was also graced by the women representatives of the NASI-local chapters as well as the distinguished members of the NASI Council.
Prof. Purnima Sharma on the occasion of celebration of Women‟s Day in NASI 2019 The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Rakesh Bhatnagar, Vice Chancellor, BHU. Prof. G. Padmanaban, President, NASI, delivered the Valedictory Address. Several distinguished scientists/experts of international repute delivered their addresses focussing on the subjects relevant to women in science viz. Women and Health, Women and Bio resources, Science & Society and Entrepreneurship development, etc.
Prof. G. Padmanaban (President of NASI) Falicitating Prof. Paramjit Khurana on the occasion of Women‟s Day 2019
(Highlights: The conference witnessed an Interaction & High-level Panel Discussion among the women scientists/tech-entrepreneurs/dignitaries from all over India to formulate long-term initiatives and evolve a strategy towards technological empowerment of women).
21 2.1.6 Successful organization of the 88th Annual Session and Symposium on „Science, Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development‟, held on 06-08 December, 2018 at Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya (MGCGV) & Deendayal Research Institute (DRI), Chitrakoot, Satna
The 88th Annual Session of NASI and a Symposium on ‗Science, Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development‘, were jointly organized by Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya (MGCGV) & Deendayal Research Institute (DRI), Chitrakoot, Satna, M. P. on Dec. 6-8, 2018, as a part of the celebration of 150th Birth Anniversary of ‗Ba & Bapu‘ and Prof. N. C. Gautam Vice Chancellor, MGGV, 125th Birth Anniversary of Prof. Chitrakoot, welcoming Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President, NASI and other distinguished guests Meghnad Saha. The events were held very successfully with about 600 participants/delegates. Prof. N. C. Gautam, Vice Chancellor, MGGV, Chitrakoot welcomed all the delegates and the participants of the 88th Annual Session of NASI & Symposium. Dr. (Mrs) Manju Sharma, Convener of the programme Inaugurated the function with lighting of the lamp; and the Presidential Address was delivered by Prof. Anil Kakodkar, Inaugural Session of 88th Annual Session President, NASI, who also took and Symposium of NASI keen interest in the programme and provided his valuable guidance. Prof. Satya Deo, G.S. (HQ), NASI delivered the vote of thanks. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, GS (OS), NASI felicitated the guests. About more than 1000 students/teachers/researchers/scientists participated in the inaugural programme. The symposium was divided into several technical sessions, as Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition; S&T for New Health Care Regime; Clean Energy; Ecosystem& Sustainable Development; Entrepreneurship, Skill Development and Employment Opportunities, etc. The presentations in the symposium were illustrative, informative and critically analyzed different issues related to Sustainable Rural Development. More than 250 researchers presented their research papers (oral/poster) on diverse topics of interest. In the end, the Recommendations (emerging from the presentations and discussion that followed) were summarized; and awards were also given to the scientists.
22 (Highlights: The conference witnessed an Interaction & High-level Panel Discussion among the scientists/ tech-entrepreneurs/ other dignitaries from India and abroad to formulate long-term initiatives and evolve a strategy towards sustainable rural development).
Dignitaries on the dais during the Inaugural Function of the 88th Annual Session and Symposium, organized by NASI
2.1.7. Prototype of the „Ganga-gallery‟ on „Parvasi Bharatya Divas‟ at Varanasi on Jan. 21-23, 2019
The 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was held in holy city of Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) from January 21 to January 23, 2019. Its theme was ‗Role of Indian Diaspora in building a New India‘. The mega event was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). It was addressed by distinguished speakers/politicians/social workers, as Sri Narendra Modi, Hon‘ble Prime Minister of India, Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Affairs, GoI and the Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, and so. The National Academy of Sciences, India was also invited to display the prototype of its Ganga Gallery (established in NASI, Prayagraj), for public awareness for the conservation and restoration of the holy river Ganges. The Gallary represents the origin of Ganga highlighting the socio-scientific, religious, cultural and economic aspects of the river. The prototype was visited by thousands of visitors including the NRIs.
(Highlights: More 1000 visitors seen the prototype of the Ganga-gallery and appreciated its concept depicting the origin of the river; its geographical distribution; flow of water through different states; physico-chemical and biological properties of its water; pollution sources & other degradation sources etc.)
23 Prototype of Ganga Gallery at Parvasi Bharatiya Divas- Outer (above) & Inner (below) views
24 Activities related to Scientific Research
25 2.2 Activities related to scientific research
(A compilation of scientific reports, as submitted by NASI-Chairs, NASI-Senior Scientists and NASI-Honorary Scientists, for the period April 01, 2018 – March 31, 2019)
2.2.1. A brief report on the Scientific /Research Contributions of M.N.Saha Distinguished Professor Prof. Ajoy Ghatak Formerly at Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi
1. Title/Theme of the work being done I have been making detailed studies on the Foundations of Quantum Mechanics. I have been able to obtain straight forward approaches to study angular momentum; for example, determining the angular momentum of the photon. I have also developed a simple way to derive Bell‘s inequality and also understand EPR paradox. I have been collaborating on improving the software (LIGHTSIM) which is used to study Propagation Characteristics of Planar and Fiber waveguides. I have also made studies on the history of development of science in India and also on the remarkable contributions of Professor Meghnad Saha. 2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report During the last 12 years I have been delivering (every year) about 20-25 lectures on Advanced Quantum Mechanics at the IUAC (Inter University Accelerator Center), New Delhi and making detailed studies on the Foundations of Quantum Mechanics. These lectures have been primarily for students working for their doctoral degree. I have evolved straight forward approaches to study angular momentum; for example, in determining the angular momentum of the photon. I have also developed a simple way to derive Bell‘s inequality and also understand the EPR paradox. All these have now been included in the extensively revised 6th edition of our book on QUANTUM MECHANICS: Theory and Applications (in collaboration with S. Lokanathan); the revised edition has been published in April 2019 (see Ref. 6 below). In collaboration with Professor Anirban Pathak (of JIIT, Noida) and Dr Manoj Saxena (of DDU College, Delhi university), I have coordinated a large number of workshops on Basic Quantum Mechanics. From these lectures have evolved new ways of understanding basic concepts in quantum mechanics. Lectures delivered at these workshops have now been put in the form of an edited book with the title LECTURES ON QUANTUM MECHANICS (Edited by Anirban Pathak and Ajoy Ghatak); see Ref. 7 below. I have also been working (in collaboration with Professor Ravi Varshney @ IIT Delhi and Professor Vipul Rastogi @ IIT Roorkee) on software to study Propagation Characteristics of Planar and Fiber waveguides. We are continuously working on improving the software (LIGHTSIM) which is now being sold by FIBEROPTIKA Technologies in Bangalore. I have also made studies on the history of development of science in India and also on the remarkable contributions of Professor Meghnad Saha. The studies have resulted in the publications described in References 2-5. 3. Publications, if any during the period of reports Ref. 1. Introduction to Quantum Theory, Ajoy Ghatak, 28 pages; published in Ref. 7. Ref. 2. DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENCE IN INDIA: A Brief Historical Perspective, Ajoy Ghatak, 28 pages; published in Ref. 4. 26 Ref. 3. MEGHANAD SAHA: A Brief History, Ajoy Ghatak, 33 pages; published in Ref. 5 Ref. 4. JOURNEY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN INDIA: A Historical Perspective, (2019), Ajoy Ghatak and Manju Sharma (Editors), The National Academy of Sciences, India, Praygaraj. Ref. 5. DARWIN OF STELLAR ASTROPHYSICS: MEGHNAD SAHA, (2019), Shyamal Bhadra, Rik Chattopadhyay and Ajoy Ghatak (Editors), VIVA Books Private Limited, New Delhi. Ref. 6. QUANTUM MECHANICS: Theory and Applications, (2019), (Extensively revised 6th Edition), Ajoy Ghatak and S. Lokanathan, Laxmi Publications, New Delhi. Ref. 7. LECTURES ON QUANTUM MECHANICS (2019), Anirban Pathak and Ajoy Ghatak (Editors), VIVA Books, New Delhi. 4. Patents filed/collaborations established during the period of report No patents filed. However, as mentioned above, extensive collaborations established with Dr Manju Sharma (NASI Distinguished Women Scientist Chair) in writing an edited book (see Ref. 4); Dr Shyamal Bhadra, Emeritus Scientist at Indian Association for Cultivation of Science, Kolkata in writing an edited book (see Ref. 5); Dr Anirban Pathak, Professor at Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida in writing an edited book (see Ref. 7). 5. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report I was invited to deliver a Distinguished Lecture in the Physics Department of IIT- Bombay as a part of their diamond jubilee celebrations; two lectures were delivered one on ‗Einstein & E=mc2‟ on August 21, 2018 and the other on the next day on ‗Evolution of Quantum Theory‟. Dr Anil Kakodkar, President NASI had asked me to be the convener of a seminar celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Professor Meghnad Saha to be held at Prayagraj on Professor Saha‘s 125th birthday (October 6, 2018). The event was attended by over 400 scientists, teachers and students and was a great success. I delivered numerous keynote addresses, evening lectures, special invited lectures and 2 Science Day lectures. Invited to deliver many special lectures and special Evening Lectures at the OSI - International Symposium on Optics held at IIT Kanpur on September 20, 2018 and also at PHOTONICS 2018 on December 14, 2018. 6. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered during the period of report On July 6, 2018, I delivered the keynote lecture at the Malaviya Research Conclave (MRC) at Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology, Gorakhpur. On May 25 2018, Central Glass Ceramic Research Institute, Kolkata (a major CSIR Laboratory) organized a One day workshop on Light & Photonic Materials celebrating the International day of Light. My 50 minute talk was on A Brief History of Light. Invited to deliver a special Evening Lecture on ‗Evolution of Quantum Theory‟ in International Symposium on Optics held at IIT Kanpur on September 20, 2018. Invited to deliver the opening keynote address on ‗Evolution of Quantum Theory‟ at the inaugural function of The National Laser Symposium (NLS-27) at Raja Ramanna Center of Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore on December 3, 2019.
27 Invited to deliver a special Evening Lecture on Evolution of Quantum Theory in PHOTONICS 2018 held at IIT-Delhi on December 14, 2018. Invited to deliver the first lecture (on Development of Science in India: A Historical Perspective) in a 1 day seminar (on January 1, 2019 ) on Celebrating 125th birth anniversary of Professor Satyendra Nath Bose organized at the S N Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata. Invited to deliver the Science Day Lecture at Delhi University South Campus (on February 27, 2019) and at IUAC (Inter university Accelerator Center), New Delhi on February 28, 2019. At both places, I spoke on the Discovery of Raman Effect & Einstein‟s Light Quanta. Invited talk on Fiber Bragg Gratings on March 1, 2019 at Workshop on Photonics for Detonics held at TBRL, Chandigarh. Invited talk on Brief History of Light at Post Graduate Government College, Chandigarh on March 2nd, 2019. 7. Few Photographs
Group photograph of organizers, speakers and chairpersons on October 7, 2018 at the conclusion of the 2 day seminar celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Professor Meghnad Saha organized by NASI at Prayagraj. I was the convener of the seminar.
Group photograph of speakers on January 1, 2019 at the starting of the 1 day seminar celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Professor Satyendra Nath Bose organized at the S N Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkta. On the left is a bust of Professor Satyendra Nath Bose and on the right are (from Left to Right) Professor Kankan Bhattacharyya, Professor Rabin Banerjee, Professor Debashis Mukherjee, Professor Ajoy Ghatak, Professor Suprakash Roy, Professor Samit Ray and Professor Partha Ghose. 28 2.2.2. A brief report on the Scientific /Research Contributions of NASI- JC Bose Distinguished Chair Professor
Prof. Amit Ghosh National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata
1. Title/Theme of the work ‗Changing characteristics of Vibrio cholera O1 isolated in Kolkata‘ 1. Significant/Scientific findings during the period of report Research Summary Our work carried out over the years highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring of the pathogens causing diarrhoea with respect to their drug resistance and other characteristics and it continued to remain a major focus for us. One prime enteric pathogen V. Cholerae O1 has two biotypes, classical and E1 Tor. Although the classical strains reigned supreme during the first six pandemics in the recorded history of cholera, it was subsequently replaced by the E1 Tor biotype strains during the seventh pandemic. It has been seen that all clinical Vibrio cholerae strains isolated in Kolkata produce classical cholera toxin. Several tests are therefore routinely carried out to determine whether the isolates are El Tor or classical. A very useful and reliable test to distinguish between the two is their sensitivity to cataionic peptide Polymyxin B. Studies carried out worldwide showed that all 7th pandemic strains were resistant to Plymyxin B. But all recent Kolkata V. cholerae O1 El Tor isolates have become Polymyxin B sensitive. Analysis carried out with multiple genetic and biochemical tests confirmed these to be El Tor strains but with classical attributes. Furthermore they contained Haitian variant ctxB. To understand the mechanism behind this change, it was decided to concentrate on the vprAB and almEFG operons – a two component system thought to have a role in Polymyxin resistance in V. Cholerae El Tor strains. We replaced the vprAB allele of a sensitive strain with that from an isogenic resistant strain and found that as the result of this exchange, the sensitive strain became resistant. Further analysis of the phenomenon seems to indicate that the point mutation in vprA results in the down regulation of vprA target genes which could be responsible for this switch. 3. Publications a) Das, Bhabatosh, Verma, J., Kumar, P., Ghosh, Amit, Ramamurthy, T. (2018). Antibiotic Resistance in Vibrio Cholerae: understatding the Genesis and Mechanisms. Vaccine in press b) Ghosh, P., Sinha, R., Samanta, P., Saha, D., Koley, H., Dutta, S., Okamoto, K., Ghosh Amit, Ramamurthy, T., Mukhopadhyay, A.K., (2019). Haitian variant vibrio cholera of strains manifest higher virulence in animal models. Frontiers in Microbiology 10, arcile 111. c) Sarkar, A., Morita, D., Ghosh, A., Chowdhury, G., Mukhopadhyay, Okamoto K., Ramamurthy, T., (2019). Altered Integrative and conjugative elements (ICES) in recent vibrio cholera o1 isolates from cholera cases, Kolkata, India. Frontiers in Microbiology, Revised MS under review. d) Ramamuthy, T., Mutreja, A., Weill, F-X, Ghosh, Amit,. Nair, G.B., (2019). Revisiting Global cholera complemented with Genomics of Vibrio Cholerae. Frontiers in Public Health under review. e) Chowdhury, G, Ramamurthy, T., Ghosh, Amit, Dutta, S., Eizo, T., Mukhopadhyay, A. (2019). Emergence of Azithromycin Resistance-Mediated by
29 phosphotransferases Encoding Gene mphA in Diarrheagenic V. fluvialis communicated. 4. Awards/Honour/Recognition Milleneum Plaque of Honour, 2019, 106th Science Congress, Jalandhar Indian Science Congress Association, Kolkata 5. Invited talks/Lectures Delivered 1. Rajendra Memorial Research Institute Patna August 07, 2018 2. Kalyani University Kalyani Sept 25, 2018 3. Indian Science Congress Jalandhar Jan 04, 2019 4. Shrikhanda High School Vill: Shrikhanda, Dist. Burdwan Feb 01, 2019 5. International Symposium on Antibiotic Resistance – One Health Perspective I.I.T., Roorkee Mar 05, 2019 6. Sarat Chandra Sur Institution Kolkata Mar 29, 2019
2.2.3. A brief report on the Scientific /Research Contributions of NASI-ICMR Chair on Public Health Research Dr. V.M. Katoch Rajasthan University of Health Sciences, Jaipur
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Theme : Programmes planned and being implemented by NASI-ICMR Chair at RUHS, Jaipur aim at Identifying important public health issues in Rajasthan ; Assessing the level and profile of research activities in Institutions in Rajasthan specially on public health issues ; Assessing strengths & challenges and suggesting methods to accelerate the progress in health research and Undertaking situation analysis and helping the state institutions in developing research cum action projects to introduce indigenously developed technologies for diagnosis, prevention and management of important public health problems. 2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
While during the first year (2016-17), focus was on identifying the needs for health research in Rajasthan by analyzing the morbidity pattern, published literature from medical and other institutions in Rajasthan and interaction with faculty & Principals of Medical colleges/ State Health authorities/ICMR institute whereas during second year (2017-18) focus had been on developing research programmes/ projects. During 2018-19 (the year under report), all these activities have continued. There has been consolidation of these programmes with the establishment of Rajasthan Chapter of NASI with head office at Jaipur; I serve as one of the Advisors of the committee. Efforts have been accelerated to encourage the potentially interested faculty to develop interdisciplinary research studies, further, by mentoring faculty at SMS Medical College, RUHS Medical College and RUHS Dental college as well as Dr RP Medical College, Tanda, Kangra (HP). During 2018-19 a total number of 28 projects were mentored at RUHS ( from Medical Colleges at Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur etc) and RPMC Tanda (HP), of which 19 has been approved by the different funding agencies and initiated. In addition, along with Prof P.N. Tandon played active role in review, monitoring
30 and mentoring of MRU and MRHRUs of DHR. Outcomes of most of these initiatives/ activities will be known in the coming years and reported. 3. Publications, if any during the period of report i. Genotypic diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from North- Central Indian population. Prakash R, Gupta R, Sharma P, Jain S, Chauhan DS, Katoch VM, Tiwari PK. Pathog Glob Health. 2019 Feb; 113(1):39-48. doi: 10.1080/20477724.2019.1583881. ii. Potential of adjunctive Mycobacterium w (MIP) immunotherapy in reducing the duration of standard chemotherapy against tuberculosis. Chahar M, Rawat KD, Reddy PVJ, Gupta UD, Natrajan M, Chauhan DS, Katoch K, Prasad GBKS, Katoch VM. Indian J Tuberc. 2018 Oct;65(4):335-344. doi: 10.1016/j.ijtb.2018.08.004. iii. Association of Toll like receptor 2 and 9 gene variants with pulmonary tuberculosis: exploration in a northern Indian population. Mittal M, Biswas SK, Singh V, Arela N, Katoch VM, Das R, Yadav VS, Bajaj B, Mohanty KK. Mol Biol Rep. 2018 Aug; 45(4):469-476. doi: 10.1007/s11033-018- 4182-z. iv. Rapid detection of ethambutol-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in clinical specimens by real-time polymerase chain reaction hybridisation probe method. Chauhan DS, Sharma R, Parashar D, Das R, Sharma P, Singh AV, Singh PK, Katoch K, Katoch VM. Indian J Med Microbiol. 2018 Apr- Jun;36(2):211-216. doi: 10.4103/ijmm.IJMM_14_304. v. Expression profile of CXCL12 chemokine during M. tuberculosis infection with different therapeutic interventions in guinea pig. Rawat KD, Chahar M, Srivastava N, Gupta UD, Natrajan M, Katoch VM, Katoch K, Chauhan DS. Indian J Tuberc. 2018 Apr;65(2):152-158. doi: 10.1016/j.ijtb.2017.08.006. vi. Planning action for strengthening the ecosystem for Ayurvedic research. Katoch VM. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2018 Oct - Dec;9(4):248-249. doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2018.11.002. vii. Mapping of health research funding in India. Dandona L, Dandona R, Kumar GA, Cowling K, Titus P, Katoch VM, Swaminathan S. Natl Med J India. 2017 Nov-Dec; 30(6):309-316. doi: 10.4103/0970-258X.239069. viii. Molecular basis of drug resistance in mycobacteria. Katoch VM. Book Chapter, Springer Verlag publishers (in press) 4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report No patents were filed during the year but continued to be engaged in catalyzing the development and strengthening of research networks within state and at country level. 6. Award/ Honour/ Recognition, if any during the period of report Was honored with Dr Rama Rao Oration (Hyderabad) and Dr P.K. Sinha Oration (Patna) during 2018-19. 7. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report During 2018-19, I delivered 23 invited talks ( including orations, key notes, plenary talks, inaugural addresses etc) . As in the previous year, I also continued to share my expertise with Govt. and Non-Govt. Institutions and participated in a total of 115 meetings/ seminars/ symposia etc across the country. These meetings pertain to policy including related to climate change and health; research on diagnostics, preventive, promotive and curative health care and strengthening of research in government and non-governmental institutions across the country.
31 Few Photographs
Rajasthan Conclave – 6, at ICMR- DMRC, Jodhpur, 20-22 October, 2018
CME programme-Two days National Workshop on "Scientific Writing", Homeopathic University, Jaipur, 4th Dec. 2018
2.2.4. A brief report on the Scientific /Research Contributions of NASI-DST Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair Professor . Dr. Manju Sharma Former Secretary to the Govt. of India NASI-DST Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair Professor During the above period several activities were taken up relating to Science and Technology promotion, inculcation of scientific temper and application of S&T for the welfare of the society. Only the important ones are mentioned in this report.
It has already been reported last year that a Mega Event was organized for Science and Technology Empowerment of Women. More than thousand women scientists
32 from India and from about six from abroad participated. The proceedings have been printed duly edited by me and my colleagues with the help of NASI. Nominated by NASI, the meeting of the Central Board of Education was attended. Have been the Trustee of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, Chennai, attended all the meetings. Participated in all the meetings of the Council and other Committees, Chaired many of them in NASI. Delivered the Convocation Address at UAS, Bangalore. Delivered V. W. Chemburkar Memorial Lecture at Vadodara. Delivered MGK Menon Memorial lecture at NASI, Allahabad. As The Chairman of the Governing Body and RAC of SRI, New Delhi, have chaired all the meetings and have been closely interacting with the Institutes for their Scientific work. A new programme on S&T Interventions for ST Population has been initiated in the academy covering almost 20 centers; have gone to different centers such as Port Blair, Jharkhand, Belgavi, Lucknow, Chakrata etc. Special review committees were organized for above program at CIMAP, Lucknow and NITM, Belgavi Attended SRI Founder Memorial Lecture and Chaired the RAC in Biology Was invited to participated in the review meetings of ICMR in May. A women scientists sensitization programme was held at AIIMS, Rishikesh. Chaired the ICAR award committee for women scientists. As a member of Board of Director of BCIL have been interacting with them for many entrepreneurship related activities. Have participated as a Member/Chairman in several high level award committees. Delivered the first Diamond Jubilee Celebration Lecture of CIMAP, Lucknow Have been associated with the NASI –SCOPUS Awards and Chaired the Agriculture, Plant Sciences and Rural Development of the Expert Committee. Received Honorary Doctorate from Jamia Hamdard University at Convocation in October 2018. Have been made by ICMR the Chairman of NITM, SAC and held the meeting on 25th October 2018. The theme for the Annual Symposium of NASI was Science and Technology and Ecosystem for Sustainable Rural Development. It was held at Chitrakoot between 6-8th Dec 2018 during 88th Annual Session as Convener, developed the programme in consultation with other colleagues and coordinated in Chitrakoot. Also the Children Science Meet as every year I was the moderator. Delivered Prof. LS Ramaswami Memorial Oration at Jaipur, Rajasthan. Also received the Lifetime Achievement Award at REWA University, Bangalore. As per the direction of Hon‘ble Prime Minister, organized and visited the Ganga Gallery exhibits at Varanasi during Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas; this was appreciated by the participants. Attended the ICMR Council Meeting on 25th Jan 2019 chaired by the Hon‘ble Minister of Health. Also participated in the Council Meeting, Allahabad on 28th January 2019. A brainstorming session was organized at INSA, New Delhi on Bioreseurce Utilization towards Bioeconomy, Development of a Roadmap jointly by DBT, IBSD, BCIL and NASI. The recommendations of the Dialogue were prepared in consultation with BCIL and have been submitted to Secretary, DBT and DG, ICMR. From the beginning, developing the programme to the end, formulation of recommendations, I have been guiding both the BCIL and IBSD. 33 Participated in the 30th Foundation Day celebrations of ILS, Bhuvneshwar, gave a lecture and inaugurated the Orissa Chapter of NASI. A very unique panel discussion was chaired by me at Miranda House, DU, New Delhi on celebrating 100th Anniversary of IUPAC and the Dialogue on Empowering Women Scientists in Chemistry on 12th Feb 2019. Foundation day lecture also at NABI Mohali on 18th Feb 2019 Science Day Lecture at JNU, New Delhi on 28th Feb 2019 International Women‘s Day being celebrated on 8th and 9th March at NASI, Allahabad As the women‘s programme is being coordinated by me, a programme has been developed and will be attended. A Committee has been constituted with the approval of the President NASI, to discuss the program of Symposium during 89th Annual Session of NASI at Hyderabad. Experts have been contacted. Meeting has been scheduled for 23rd March to give final touches to the program. SC/ST program has expanded to almost 20 institutions. A review meeting is being planned and the Expert Committee will meet on the 26th April 2019 and look at the new proposals. The work of the Ganga Researchers is progressing well and will also be reviewed on 26th April 2019.
Besides the above, activities and many other scientific programmes of other private and public sector organizations have been attended as also that of NASI. My involvement in these has been basically to promote S&T for human welfare, sensitize different strata of the society about S&T and it‘s importance in harnessing it for societal benefit. Have paid special attention to the programmes for rural development weaker sections. For NASI I have tried to bring in more scientific and technological inputs in the programme and activities. Entrepreneurship development has been a major thrust. Have been interacting closely with Science Departments such as – DBT, DST, CSIR, ICMR, ICAR, DOS, DAE, DRDO; also I have been associated with the S&T endeavours of many private sector organizations such as Lifecare Innovations Pvt. Ltd., BCIL, SRI, MYHCO, BICON and many others in various capacities as Chairman, Member etc.
I have also been working with Bhasin Foundation as Science Trustee nominated by NASI for giving the Om Prakash Bhasin Award in several areas of science and technology. Similarly I am also working with SCOPUS to advise them regarding various expert committees and other issues of giving awards to the young scientists.
I am thankful to NASI for this opportunity to continue my science and technology promotion work for human welfare. I interact with hundreds of scientists to discuss, give advice and encourage, mentor and guide them suitably for a career in science.
2.2.5. A brief report on the Scientific /Research Contributions of NASI-Platinum Jubliee Chair Distinguished Professor Prof. Ashok Misra NASI-Platinum Jubliee Chair Distinguished Professor
1. Theme of the work being done I am in the Interdisciplinary Center for Energy Research (ICER), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. My involvement is in the general area of Materials used in the Energy sector. I am specifically looking at use of polymers in several systems used in Energy such as Photovoltaic solar cells. In this, I am also coordinating regarding some
34 work being done at IIT Bombay for the replacement of EVA for encapsulating solar cells. In addition, I interacted with the Polymer R&D Centre of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) in Mumbai for the development of some novel polymers. Several new products have been developed by them with the ideas given by me. These include Internally Plasticized polyvinyl chloride (IPVC) and lastomeric Butyl Halo Ionomer and Composites.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report a. Photovoltaic cells are normally encapsulated in EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer). Over time EVA degrades and becomes yellow. It also becomes brittle. The challenge is to find a suitable replacement for EVA. We are looking at the possibility of using a special grade of polyvinyl chloride and other ethylene based copolymers. Some of these are being tested under conditions that will replicate the use conditions.
b. Internally Plasticized PVC (IPVC). For this I had suggested to the RIL team to look at hooking on the plasticizer as a graft on the main chain of PVC. They took the challenge and developed a unique two-step process for making IPVC. This product eliminates the addition of an external plasticizer to PVC. Hence the age old problems of plasticizer migration and evaporation are totally eliminated as well as makes this more eco-friendly. The IPVC also resulted in improved processing as plasticizer did not have to be mixed. Applications for films, flexible tubing etc. are being developed. Four Patent/ IP Disclosure have been filed by the group, which I have listed below. More are in progress.
c. Elastomeric Butyl Halo Ionomer and Composites: In this area I had suggested taking the approach of making an ionomeric product. The R&D team then designed Halobutyl rubber products with different distribution ratio of Endo / Exo Stereoisomers through novel single step Halogentation. A number of Ionomers with different nitrogen and phosphorus nucleophiles were developed using higher Endo halobutyl rubber with unique performance. The application of product developed for pharmaceutical stopper, fibre, high impact blends for automobile etc. Three Patent / IP Disclosure are filed as listed below. More are likely to emerge.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report ―Does the nature of chemically grafted polymer onto PVDF decide the extent of electroactive
4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report My involvement with the RIL resulted in the following two patents: a. Process for preparing halogenated butyl rubber with controlled microstructure having endo isomer greater than 70%; Indian Patent Application No. 201721044870. b. Eco-Smart products and process for synthesis of IP-PVC; Indian patent application no. 201821027921.
5. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report I received the „D. M. Trivedi Lifetime Achievement Award‟ for Contribution to the Indian Chemical Industry for Education and Research from the Indian Chemical
35 Council given in Mumbai on September 28, 2018. I am attaching the photo of the award that I received.
6. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report a. Chief Guest at ‗One day Conference on Polymer Processing‘ at Pillai College, Mumbai. February 23, 2019. b. Organised the 7th Foundation Day of the Polymer Processing Academy at Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore. March 8, 2019. c. Inaugural talk „Fostering Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship‟ at the 4- day National Seminar on Innovations in Science and Engineering, February 25, 2019. This workshop was jointly organized by Sri M, Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology and the Bangalore Chapter of NASI from February 25-28, 2019. d. Delivered 2 talks at NIIT University in Neemrana: To Faculty – „Building a World Class Teaching and Research University - IIT Bombay experience‟ To Students: „Fostering Creativity and Innovation in Science and Technology‘, January 12, 2014. e. The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) and IIT Alumni Centre, Bangalore (IITACB) organized a workshop on „Technologies to address the Energy needs of India‟ in the premises of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore during October 11-12, 2018. The main objective of this workshop was to expose the industry to the expertise available with the academia on different new and renewable energy technologies. The inaugural session started with the welcome address by Prof. Ashok Misra, Past President, NASI. He highlighted the main objective of the workshop. Prof. Ashok Kamath welcomed the intellectual gathering on behalf of IIITACB. The Plenary lecture on „New Paradigms for India‟s Energy Future‟ was delivered by Prof. Anil Kakodkar, Hon‘ble President of NASI, Allahabad. f. Chaired a session at the Vinyl-India 2018 in Mumbai, April 12-13, 2018.
7. Lectures taken as part of Courses at IISc, Bangalore a. Jointly offered the course on Polymers Science & Engineering for offered the Department of Materials Engineering. b. Took a few lectures in the course ―Polymer Chemistry‖ offered by the Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry. c. Tooke a few lectures in the course on ―Renewable Energy Technologies‖ offered by the ICER.
8. Few Photographs
36 Inauguration of the workshop on Energy, Bangalore
2.2.6. Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI Honorary Scientists
1. Prof. K.A. Natarajan Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science
1. Title/Theme of the Research work carried out:
Title: Biotechnology of metals and Bioenvironmental Control. The theme of the work is minerals Bioprocessing, Biofouling and Microbially- influenced corrosion and Environmental control. Antimicrobial nanocoatings using silver- graphene oxide nano composites being developed to control microbiofouling and metallic corrosion. The role of several mining microorganisms in water pollution and bioremediation processes is being investigated. In the area of minerals bioprocessing, microbially- mediated mineral beneficiation was demonstrated.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report a) Establishment of marine metallic- corrosion brought out by sulfate reducing anaerobes b) Biofouling of metal surfaces by Sulfate Reducing Bacteria and consequential corrosion of steel c) Antimicrobial surface coatings based on silver and graphene oxide nanoparticles d) Silver nanoparticles were efficient in deactivating corrosion-causing Sulfate Reducing Bacteria e) Bioflocculants and mining bacteria such as Acidothiobacillus, Sulfate Reducing Bacteria and Thiomonas sp., could be used to detoxify arsenic- polluted water. f) Several mining microorganisms isolated from mines could be used to beneficiate iron ores, bauxite, clays and sulfide ores.
3. Maintenance of Bacterial culture bank containing several mining microorganisms such as AcidithiobacillusSpp, Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRB) and Bacillus Spp.
37 4. Illustrative photographic highlights of the work in the area of Biofouling and Microbially influenced corrosion are given below:
a b)
SEM photograph of a) Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRB) b) SRB attached to Mild steel
Micro-biofouling behavior of Ag NPs-GO composite coating on mild steel
Mild steel surfaces are highly prone to micro-biofouling (thick bio- film + distinct microbial colonies) in sea water and soils. Extent of bio-fouling on coatings was found to be lesser on AG NP- Graphene Oxide Nano-Coated Surfaces compared to bare metallic surfaces. AgGO nano-coatings exhibited largest resistance to micro-biofouling and the coatings Ag nanoparticles embedded coatings are effective anti- fouling materials
YEAR-WISE REPORT OF OTHER ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES (FEATURES, PUBLICATIONS, HONORS / AWARDS. STUDENT GUIDANCE ETC.)
Report of the period of March 2016-March 2017
I. Ph.D Guidance‟s Guided Ph.D work of Mr. Raghupathy. II. Guiding Students Under Academies Summer Research Fellowship Programme
38 Guided P. Lavanya Devi on a project entitled ‗Synthesis of a bioflocculants and copper nanoparticles using Bacillus licheniformis for bioremediation‘ May – June 2016, IISc. Bangalore. III. Teaching Taught a course MT-235 ―CORROSION TECHNOLOGY‖ at Department of Materials Engineering, IISc. Bangalore during the semester August- December 2016. IV. Honors and Awards NIGIS Lifetime Achievement Award under NACE International (Corrosion Engineering) for lifetime contributions in teaching, research on corrosion engineering, awarded on September 20, 2016. Served as expert member, Materials engineering at the engineering sciences selection committee for the Academies Summer Research Fellowship Programme – 2017 at Indian Academy of sciences, Bangalore, December 19-21, 2016. Continued as member DST-SERB PAC on Materials, Mining and Minerals Engineering. V. Journal Publications
1. K.A. Natarajan, Biomineralization and biobeneficiation of bauxite, Trans. Indian Institute of Metals, 69 (2016), pp. 15-21. 2. Y. Raghupathy, K. A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Anticorrosive and antimicrobial properties of nanocrystalline Ni-Ag coating, Materials Science and Engineering B, 206 (2016), pp. 1-8. 3. K. A. Natarajan and Karthiga Devi, Bioflocculants relevant for water treatment and remediation, published in ―Sustainability in the mineral and energy sectors‖, (Eds) S. Devasahayam, K.Dowling, M. K. Mahapatra, CRC Press, NY (2016), pp. 287-304. 4. K. A. Natarajan, Use of bioflocculants for mining environmental control, Trans. Indian Institute of Metals. Online. 30-11-2016 (Springer).
VI. Invited Lectures delivered: 1. “Strategies for prevention of biofouling and microbially influenced corrosion” at Training program on Corrosion prevention strategies, CII, Bangalroe February 26-27, 2016. 2. “Biology and Gold” at Dayanand Sagar University, Biosciences, Bangalore, September 16, 2016. 3. Invited Key-not lecture entitled, „Biotechnological innovations in gold mining and extraction‟, International conference on Advances in Materials and Materials Procressing IIT, Kharagpur, November 5-7, 2016. 4. „Biology-materials interface‟ for class 12 students under the DST- sponsored INSPIRE-camp-2016 at K. L. University, Vijayawada on December 8, 2016.
VII. Conduct of Academies Workshops and CONVENOR Academies‘ workshop on ‗Frontiers in Corrosion Engineering and Technology‟, Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam, February 12-13, 2016, delivered lecture on Biofouling and microbially influenced corrosion.
Report on the work done during March 2017-March 2018 I. Teaching MT-235 CORROSION TECHNOLOGY (3:0) Graduate course in Materials Engineering (August-December 2017). 39 II. Ph.D Guidance Guided Ph.D work of Y. Raghupathy on Antifouling coatings for corrosion resistance. III. Ph.D thesis evaluation and External Examinership GOA UNIRESITY VNIT NAGPUR BARC MUMBAI
IV. Academies‟ Summer Research Fellowship Programme a) Served in the selection committee to select summer research fellows in the area of Materials Engineering, December 2017. b) Guided Two Students in Summer Research during June-July 2017.
V. Honors / Committees a) DST-SERB PAC expert member – Materials, Mining and Mineral Engineering (2017-2018) b) Honorary Member of the committee of International Biohydrometallurgy Symposium (IBS)-(2017-2018) c) Expert member – Brain storming session – National center for corrosion research, IIT. Bombay. 6th November 2017. d) DST-SERB panel member for Young Scientists Scheme – 2017.
VI. Research publications 1. Y. Raghupathy, K. Karthiga Devi, K.A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Size dependent antimicrobial response of silver nanoparticles for antifouling applications in marine environment, CORROSION CONFERENCE, NACE, IIT MADRAS, February 2018. 2. K.A. Natarajan, Bioremediation of arsenic using bioflocculants and microorganisms, chapter 10 in ―Heavy Metals in the Environment: Microorganisms and Bioremediation: Edgardo R Donati (Editor), CRC Press, New York (2018), pp. 195-210. 3. Y. Raghupathy, K.A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Microstructure, electrochemical behavior and biofouling of electrodeposited metal matrix-silver nanoparticles composite coatings, Surface and Coatings Technology, 328 (2017), pp.266-275. 4. K.A. Natarajan, Use of bioflocculants for mining environmental control, Trans. Indian Inst. Metals, 70 (2017), pp. 519-525. 5. Y. Raghupathy, K.A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Nickel-silver nonmaterial‘s, synthesis, electrochemical corrosion behavior and antimicrobial response, Indian Institute of Metals, NMD-Annual Tech. Meeting, Goa, November (2017). 6. K.A. Natarajan, Bioprocessing technologies for iron ore beneficiation, Proc. Int. Conf. on Science and Technology of Iron Making and steel making, IIT, Kanpur, December (2017).
VII. Invited / Plenary lectures delivered 1. Invited lecture on Biotechnology for gold, VNIT, Nagpur, 17th March 2017. 2. Invited talk on Writing Research Proposals, Workshop on Research, B.M.S. Institute of Technology, Bangalore, 25th July 2017. 3. Invited lecture on Biotechnology for Metal Extraction, VIT University, Vellore, 15th August 2017. 4. DST-Inspire lecture at K.L. University, Vijayawada on Science for High School Students, 9th September 2017. 40 5. Distinguished speaker lecture on Microbial Corrosion-Industrial Relevance, Prevention and Control - Programme on Corrosion Management, Confederation of Indian Industry, Bangalore on 23th September 2017. 6. Keynote, lecture on Bioprocessing technologies for iron ore beneficiation, IIT Kanpur, 11th December 2017. 7. DST-INSPIRE lecture at K.L. University, Vijayawada on Indian Science Through the Ages, for High School Students, on January 09, 2018. 8. Plenary lecture at NIT Calicut on Microbial aspects of Water Pollution and Bioremediation with reference to mining in India, on 9th March 2018. Report of the work March 2018-March 2019 1. Guidance of students under Joint Science Academies Summer fellowship. Two students were guided in the areas of microbially influenced corrosion and nano coatings for corrosion protection.
2. Evaluation of Ph.D Theses and External Examinership a) Formation and dissolution of magnetite at high temperatures and pressures, BARC. April 2018. b) Bioremediation of heavy metals polluted soil of active gold mines using bacterial biopolymers – A.S. Ayangbenro-North west university, S.Africa January 2019. c) Application of dissimilatory iron reducing bacteria for recovery of nickel from chromite overburden of Sukinda (January 2019)
3. Honors/Expert Memberships a) Expert Member, Programme Advisory Committee (PAC) on Materials, Mining and Minerals Engineering, of DST-SERB 2015-2018. b) Expert Member of Board of Studies for Department of Metalurgical Engineering, Jain University, Bangalore, January – December 2018. c) Subject Expert in Metalurgical Engineering for Selection of Professors under the HAG scale for National Institute of Technology, Rourkela- November 12, 2018. d) Member of Engineering Sciences Selection Committee for Summer Research Fellowship Programme of the Joint Science Academies, Bangalore, December 17-18, 2018. 4. TEACHING Graduate course in MT-235 CORROSION TECHNOLOGY August- December 2018.
5. Writing Book Biotechnology of Metals- Principles, Recovery Methods and Environmental Concerns- K. A. Natarajan (Single author book), Elsevier Press, Amsterdam (June 2018) 502 pages.
6. Writing of book chapters a). Chapter on ‗PRINCIPLES OF CORROSION PROCESSES‘ in the Book titled Diagnostics and Prognostics aspects of corrosion (Ed) George Vactitsevanos of Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, Publisher, Springer (USA). b). Chapter on Biohydrometallurgy of metals-Publisher Springer (USA).
7. Reviewer of International Journals such as Minerals Engineering (Elsevier) Hydrometallurgy (Elsevier) 41 Bulletin of Material Sciences (Indian Academy of Sciences)
8. Invited Lectures delivered a) Invited plenary lecture on Microbial aspects of Environmental Pollution at National Institute of Technology, Calicut (Kerala) on April 2018. b) Biofouling and Microbially Influenced corrosion relevant to nuclear power industries, BARC, Bombay, 21-6-2018. c) Corrosion Processes relevant to Helicopters, special invited lecture at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bangalore, 28-6-2018. d) Invited Talk on „Microbial Aspects of Arsenic Dissolution and Remediation‟, Seminar on ARSENIC IN THE ENVIRONMENT (As 2018) Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore – 25-7-2018. e) Keynote lecture on „Biofouling and Microbially influenced corrosion‟ at CORCON – 2018, NACE corrosion conference, Jaipur, October 2, 2018. f) Biotechnology of Gold under the auspices of NASI-Bangalore Chapter at BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore, 23-10-2018.
2. Prof. Shelley Bhattacharya Visva-Bharti, Santiniketan, Kolkata
1. Title/Theme of the work being done: a) Trans-differentiation of rat hepatic oval cells into insulin producing cells. b) Research supervision of PhD students in other areas. i. Abundance of Macrobrachium lamarrei: A less explored commercially important native prawn species in India ii. Mentha arvensis (Linn.) mediated green silver nanoparticles trigger caspase 9 dependent cell death in MCF7 cells
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
a. Trans-differentiation of Rat Hepatic Oval Cells into Insulin Producing Cells
Information gleaned from earlier research (Agarwal et al., 2009 and Chatterjee et al., 2014) encouraged us to undertake the in vivo transdifferentiation of rat hepatic stem cells into insulin producing beta-like cells. In the present programme, earlier histological and immunohistochemical studies have yielded convincing evidence of the presence of β-like cells in both partially hepatectomized liver tissue and GLP-1 treated PH liver tissue. Presently, we have demonstrated the glucose level and insulin level in control, saline and GLP1 treated partial hepatectomized rat (Fig.1).
120 1.50 118 1.45 116 1.40 114 112 1.35 110 1.30 108 1.25 106 104 1.20 102 1.15 100 1.10 98 Control Saline GLP Control Saline GLP
Figure 1: Glucose and Insulin level in Control, Saline and GLP1 treated partial hepatectomized rat. P<0.05
42 The experiment clearly indicates that the blood glucose level in saline treated PH rat was very high than control and it suppressed in GLP-1 treated hepatectomized rat. This result was further confirmed by high serum insulin level in GLP-1 treated PH rat. Furthurmore, confocal microscopy imaging also proved the presence of insulin and its transcription factor PDX1 in regenerated region of GLP-1 treated PH rat liver.
Figure 2: Confocal imaging of GLP-1 treated regenerated liver.
The mRNA level of PDX1 and Insulin (Ins1 and Ins2) further confirmed insulin production from GLP-1 treated PH rat.
Saline 5d GLP
PDX1 Relative mRNA expression mRNA Relative CL CP Saline 5d GLP Figure3: Relative mRNA level in control and regenerated region of saline and GLP-1 treated PH rat. p<0.05. b. Research supervision of PhD students in other areas i). Abundance of Macrobrachium lamarrei: A less explored commercially important native prawn species in India
43 Macrobrachium lamarrei is a native freshwater prawn species with a high commercial status due to its acceptance as a frequent food item in different states of India.The state of West Bengal is reported to be in the sixth position (among thirty six) in wetland coverage, where ponds are the predominant source of freshwater. We conducted a survey-based study concentrating on the Bolpur-Sriniketan block, of Birbhum district, West Bengal, India to quantify the occurrence of this species in the ponds and the rate of consumption in this area. The aforementioned block is a rural area at the closest vicinity of the sub-divisional town, Bolpur .We targeted villages near for a comparative assessment of the number of ponds the abundance of M. lamarrei therein and the markets to estimate its consumption rate. Our final goal is to address the dimension of food safety of this edible prawn. In fact, the target aquatic bodies are uninvestigated in terms of heavy metal pollution. Hence, a detailed research on the presence of metal pollutants in a focused ecosystem and in the prawns will let us identify the safety status of this prawn. ii). Mentha arvensis (Linn.) mediated green silver nanoparticles trigger caspase 9 dependent cell death in MCF7 cells Leaf extract of Mentha arvensis or mint plant was used as reducing agent for the synthesis of green silver nanoparticles (GSNPs) as a cost-effective, eco-friendly process compared to that of chemical synthesis. Nanoparticles were found to be spherical in shape with a size range of 3-9 nm. Anticancer activities against breast cancer cell lines (MCF7 and MDA-MB-231) were studied and compared with chemically synthesized (NaBH4-mediated) silver nanoparticles (CSNPs). Cell survival of nanoparticle-treated and untreated cells was studied by MTT assay and results showed that Mentha mediated GSNPs exhibited significant cytotoxicity towards breast cancer cells (MCF7 and MDA-MB-231) which were at par with that of CSNPs .On the other hand, human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs) showed significantly less cytotoxicity compared to MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells when treated with the same dose (Figure 2). Study of cytomorphological changes revealed that GSNPs exposure reduced both cell size and number in cancer cells, and no recovery was observed until 96 h . Nuclear condensation and fragmentation were evident and prominent in GSNPs treated cancer cells as revealed by Hoechst staining. Early and late apoptotic cell populations were studied by Acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining (Figure 5). Cell cycle analyses were carried out using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) which revealed a significant increase in Sub G1 cell population indicating cytotoxicity of GSNPs. Therefore, GSNPs synthesized using Mentha may be considered as highly promising anticancer agents in breast cancer therapy which are less toxic to normal cells also.
Figure 4: Morphological changes in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells after treatment with Mentha mediated silver nanoparticles (1.56 µg/mL and 12.5 µg/mL) for 48 h (Magnification 200X).
44 3. Publications, if any during the period of report a. Bandyopadhyay, A., Garai, S., Banerjee, P.P., Bhattacharya, S. and Chattopadhyay, A, 2019. Evaluation of the anticancer effect of Bacopa monniera-derived Dammarane saponins in human breast cancer cells. International Journal of Herbal Medicine, 7, 39-45.
b. Arpan Dey Bhowmik, Pallab Shaw,Paritosh Mondal, Chayan Munshi, Swarnak Chatterjee, Shelley Bhattacharya and Ansuman Chattopadhyay, 2019. Incidence of fluorosis and urinary fluoride concentration are not always positively correlated with drinking water fluoride level. CURRENT SCIENCE, VOL. 116: 1551-1554
c. Shuvasree Sarkar1, Chayan Munshi1,2, Sarmishtha Chatterjee1,3, Sandip Mukherjee4and Shelley Bhattacharya1* Vector-free in vivo trans- determination of adult hepatic stem cells to insulin-producing cells. Molecular Biology Reports, 2019 (doi: 10.1007/s11033-019-04870-z)
Research Articles Communicated: 1
d. Sarkar, S., Mondal, T., Roy, S., Bandyopadhyay, A., Chattopadhyay, A., Bhattacharya, S.and Panja, S.,Water Triggered Modulation of Photophysical Properties of a Pyrene Derivative: A Potential Tool for Water Sensing. Environmental Science: Water Research & Technology 2019.
3. Prof. Aloknath Chakrabarti Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Title: Integral Equations and their Applications. Theme: Special approximate methods have been developed to solve a class of weakly singular and hyper-singular integral equations occurring in studies on scattering of water waves by obstacles of various shapes and types.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
The researches carried out involve the following two areas: (1) Integral Equations i. An approximate method of solution has been developed to handle a class of Hyper-singular Integral Equations of the second kind, by utilizing the evaluation of Cauchy type singular integrals and their derivatives. The basic unknown functions of the integral equations have been expressed in terms of suitable polynomials, multiplied by appropriate end conditions of the intervals of integration. The original problems are shown to be reducible to systems of Linear Algebraic Equations whose solutions determine the solution of the original Hyper-singular Integral Equations.
ii. A class of integral equations of the first kind, involving weakly singular kernels of the logarithmic type, along with specific end behavior of the unknown functions involved, has been examined for their approximate numerical solutions. 45 (2) Boundary Value Problems i. The mixed boundary value problem, arising in the study of scattering of surface water waves by a permeable vertical barrier, involving water of infinite depth, has been investigated by the aid of Hyper-singular Integral Equations. ii. The problem of scattering of water waves, by an asymmetrical rectangular trench, has been handled for its approximate solution by the aid of a system of integral equations of the first kind. iii. The presently developed method of solution has been applied to solve the problem of scattering of water waves by two asymmetrical rectangular trenches also. iv. A special approximate method of solution has been developed to solve certain infinite dual series relations, arising in mixed boundary value problems of Mathematical Physics.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report The following papers have been prepared and communicated for publlcation:
Paper-1: ―A note on the solution of the problem of water wave scattering by a vertical permeable plate using Havelock‘s theorems‖, By R.Gayen, Sourav Gupta and A. Chakrabarti, communicated for publication in ZAMM (Journal of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics).
Paper-2 : ―Approximate solution of a system of integral equations arising in the study of propagation of surface water waves involving an asymmetrical rectangular trench.‖, By Amandeep Kaur, S. C. Martha and A. Chakrabarti, communicated for publication in ZAMM ( Journal of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics).
Paper-3 : “Modified Method for the solution of Dual Trigonometric Series‖, By A. Choudhary, S.C. Martha and A. Chakrabarti, Accepted for publication in Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci., India, Series- A, Physical Sciences, ( 2019).
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report. The following Lectures were delivered, in Science Academies Refresher Courses: (A). “Integral Equation Methods Applicable to Water Wave Scattering Problems‖ during 25th to 27th June, 2018, as a part of the Science Academy Refresher Course on ―Concepts of Fluid Dynamics and Applications‖, CFDA- 2018, held in IIT ( ISM ) Dhanbad, during the period: June 25 to July6, 2018. (B). (i) ―Basic Matrix Theory‖ and (ii) Applications of Linear Algebra in Boundary Value Problems‖, on 29th and 30th October, 2018, as a part of the Science Academies‘ Lecture Workshop on ― Linear Algebra and Topology‖, held in MES Degree College of Arts , Commerce and Science, Malleswaram, Bangalore-560003, during the period: October 29- 31, 2018.
4. Prof. Partha S. Ghose SN Bose National Centre for Basic Science, Kolkata
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Research was focused on relativistic wave equations for bosons and on unified theories of gravity and electrodynamics 46 2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report 1. Relativistic wave equations unify classical and quantum aspects. 2. A unified theory of gravity and electrodynamics proposed by S. N. Bose in 1952 implies the presence of magnetic monopole charges without Dirac strings, the complete freedom in the choice of electric and magnetic quantities, and the topological quantization of charge on imposing a simple condition. 3. Publications, if any during the period of report 1. Possibility of Classical Entanglement at LIGO (with A. K. Rajagopal), International Journal of Astronomy and Astrophysics vol 8, 267-274 (2018), 2. Bose, Einstein and Their Physics, Physics News (Special Issue on S. N. Bose), vol. 49, pages 8-16 (2019). 3. Quantum Statistics and Quantum Information Processing (with A. S. Majumdar), Science and Culture, Vol 85 (Nos 1-2) (special issue on S. N. Bose), p. 30 (2019). 4. Rabindranath and Science, written for the forthcoming The Cambridge Companion to Tagore, ed. Sukanta Chaudhuri, Cambridge University Press 5. A Unified Theory of Gravity and Electromagnetism: Classical and Quantum Aspects, to be published in Pramana. 4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report: Jnan O Bijnan Puraskar, Acharya Satyendranath Bose Smriti Phalak award of Bangiya Bigyan Parishad (established by Professor S. N. Bose) for overall contributions to science popularization in Bengali 5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report 1. Origin of Quantum Computers, RRI, Bengaluru, 03 April, 2018 2. Bose Statistics: Its Significance and Impact, One-day Seminar on Life and Works of Prof. M. N. Saha and Prof. S. N. Bose organized by JIIT and NASI at JIIT, Sep 15, 2018 3. Bose, Einstein and Their Physics, Academic Session on History of Science in the Concluding Programme of the 125th Birth Anniversary Celebration of Prof. S.N. Bose on 1st January 2019, SNBNCBS, Kolkata 4. A Unified Theory of Classical and Quantum Light!, Quantum Foundations and Frontiers (QFF-2018), RRI, Bengaluru, 30 April-4 May, 2018. 6. Few Photographs Receiving Jnan O Bijnan award (citation), 25th January 2019 and the plaque
47 5. Dr. V.P. Kamboj Biotech Park, Lucknow
Title/Theme of the work being done:
1. Key note speaker in Inaugural session of Workshop on ―Biosafety regulations in India and GM crops: An Update‖ during 7th State level Biosafety building workshop at Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology (NDUAT), Faizabad on 10th April, 2018 2. Spoke on ―Science and Safety of GM Crops : India scene‖ at 7th State level Biosafety building workshop NDUAT, Faizabad on 10th April, 2018 3. Chaired session on ―Can alternatives to animal studies be a valid option‖ in the 11th Annual Conference of the South Asian College of Clinical Pharmacology, an affiliate of American College of Clinical Pharmacology (SAC ACCP), Clinical Pharmacology: Contributing to Global Health and Policies, at Nehru Centre, Mumbai, 1-2 May, 2018 4. Chief Guest and Inaugural address ―Novel developments in Dental Sciences‖ at UP Dental Show 2018 at Indira Gandhi Pratisthan, Lucknow on 4th August, 2018 5. Spoke on ―Economic Importance of Insects‖ at Science Academies Refresher Course on ―Insect Bio-resources and Human Health‖ at Dept. of Zoology, St. Xaviers College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai (Tirunelveli), Tamil Nadu, 18th August, 2018 6. Spoke on ―Genetic engineering of Silk worm for High Value Silk‖ at Science Academies Refresher Course on ―Insect Bio-resources and Human Health‖ at Dept. of Zoology, St. Xaviers College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai (Tirunelveli), Tamil Nadu, 18th August, 2018 7. Delivered Prof. VP Sharma Memorial Award Lecture of NASI on ―Drug Discovery: Journey of a new Compound to Drug‖ at the National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi on 28th August, 2017 8. Spoke on ―Past, present and future of Drug Development in India‖ on 76th Foundation Day of CSIR at CSIR-CDRI, Lucknow on 1st October, 2018 9. Spoke on General Science awareness during the Inauguration of 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Rashtrapita Mahatma Gandhi‘s get-together on ―Ba and Bapu‖ by NASI at Raja Kamrakar Intermediate School , Shankargarh, UP on 2nd October, 2018 10. Spoke on ―Job opportunities in new drug development area‖ in interaction with students at the India International Science Festival being held at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, Lucknow on 7th October, 2018 11. Spoke on ―Biological Sciences Research Institutes at Lucknow: Brief Highlights‘ to 10+2 class students during INSA Anniversary General Meeting held at CBMR, Lucknow 0n 12th October, 2018 12. Chief Guest at Inauguration of DST INSPIRE Camp and spoke on ―Discoveries leading to Innovations for Mankind‖ at Lyallpur Khalsa College, Jalandhar on 1st November, 2018
48 13. Chief Guest and spoke at Inauguration of 1st Conference of Animal Physiologists Association (APACON-2018) held at ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar on 22 December, 2018 14. Keynote talk on ―Sustained Food Security in India: Challenges and Opportunities‖ in the 1st Conference of Animal Physiologists Association (APACON-2018) held at ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar, 22-23 December, 2018 15. Talk on ―Jal and Swachchta: Sawstha aur Sukhi jeevan ke Aadhar‖ under the INSA/NASI/UPAST Lucknow chapter at ELPIS Global School, Biswan, Sitapur on 21st December, 2018 16. Chaired Session I: ―Women in Health‖ during the Conference on ―Women in Science‖ on International Women‘s Day, at NASI, Prayagraj on 8-9 March, 2019 17. Inaugural address at a Training Programme on ―Next Generation Sequencing: An Overview‖ at Biotech Park, Lucknow on 27March, 2019
6. Prof.V.A.Bapat Department of Biotechnology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur
1. Title/Theme of the work being done :
A. To identify plants having maximum content of bioactive molecules related for treating Parkinson‘s disease and Alzheimer symptoms. B. Characterization of the process for extraction of the metabolites. C. Profiling and efficacy of the metabolites using latest high tech instruments. D. Establishment of plant cell cultures for understanding basic mechanisms. E. Attempts to enhance the metabolites through in vitro mutagenesis.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
The main thrust of research work on bio molecules from three plants, mainly Mucuna, Crinum and Pancratium against Parkinson‘s disease and Alzheimer symptoms are pursued further. Several critical studies were conducted to characterize the compounds. Experiments on the animal models are currently being evaluated.
Simultaneously, research was carried out to investigate an efficient method for extraction of swertiamarin and mangiferin from different species of genus Swertia. Work on induced mutations on aromatic rice was conducted along with the Department of Botany. M1 and M2 populations were screened for identifying the desirable traits. The selected populations will be sown in June for carrying out the confirmation of induced mutations. Transcriptome analysis, gene polymorphism and genetic diversity of 80 rice varieties, research is underway.
Tissue cultures of two medicinal plants, Drimia and Pancratium were successfully established and bioactive presence will be checked in cell cultures for further scale up.
49 The work on the collection of woolly aphid samples for identification and DNA isolation is underway and will be tested using bioinformatics to securitize the generated data.
Plant fungal interaction using Fusarium has been initiated with main focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report :
1. PATIL S, SISTLA S., BAPAT V.A. and JADHAV J.P. ( 2018) Melanin mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their affinity towards tyrosinase. Appl. Biochemistry and Microbiology 54, No. 2, pp. 163–172. 2. GURME, S. T., JADHAV P.P., PAWAR K.D. BAPAT V.A. and JADHAV J.P. (2018) Somatic embryogenesi and evaluation of genetic fidelity in Amorphophallua paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson. J. Crop Improvement. 3. PATIL S, SISTLA S, BAPAT V. A. and JADHAV J.P. (2018) Structure- Function Studies of Fungal Tyrosinaseusing Surface Plasmon Resonance. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India.Proc. Natl. Acad.Sci., India, Sect. B Biol. Sci. 4. PATIL R., AWARE C., GAIKWAD S., RAJBHOSALE M., BAPAT V. YADAV S. and JADHAV J.(2018)RP-HPLC Analysis of Anti-Parkinson‘s Drug L-DOPA Content in Mucuna Species from Indian Subcontinents .Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., India, Sect. B Biol. 5. AWARE, C., PATIL, R., VY AVAHARE G., GURAV R., BAPAT V. and JADHAV J. (2019)Processing Effect on L- DOPA, In Vitro Protein and Starch Digestibility, Proximate Composition, and Biological Activities of Promising Legume: Mucuna macrocarpa. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, ISSN: 731-5724int), 1541-1087. 6. RANE,M, SURYAVANSHI S, PATIL R, AWARE C, JADHAV R, GAIKWAD S,, SINGH P, YADAV S.R,BAPAT V.A., GURAV R and JADHAV J (2019) Exploring the proximate composition, antioxidants, anti Parkinson,s, and anti inflammatory potential of two negelcetd and unsderutilized Mucuna sps from India. South African J Botany (In press). 7. CHAVAN J, J., GAIKWAD N.B., DIXIT G.B., YADAV S.R. and BAPAT V.A.(2018) Biotechnological interventions for propagation, conservation and improvement of Lantern Flowers ( Ceropegia spp.). South African Journal of Botany, 114, 192 -216. 8. JAGTAP U.B. and BAPAT V.A. (2018) Custard apple—Annona squamosa L. In Exotic fruits ( Eds, S, Rodrigues, E. de Oliveira Silva and E. Sousa de Brito). Academic Press, USA, pp.163-166.
4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report :
Springer International, invited to edit a book on Phytochemicals from underutilized fruits and seeds. (Expected to be published in Nov. 2019). Evaluated four Ph. D. thesis during the last year.
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report :
Participated in National academy sponsored two seminars: 1) Shahaji College of Science, Kolhapur, Dec.2018
50 2) New College of Science, Parner, Ahmaednagar, Jan. 2019
Few Photographs
Somatic embryogenesis and evaluation of genetic fidelity in Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson
7. Prof. Satya Deo
Harish Chandra Research Institute, Prayagraj
1. Title/Theme of the work being done.
My work on the project ‗Topological Methods in Combinatorial Mathematics‘ continues during this period also. It was a breakthrough when the important problem mentioned in my original proposal as TTC (Topological Tverberg
51 Conjecture) was solved by F.Frick during Feb 2015 (Arxiv). His solution, however, has left some important questions which are yet to be resolved and I am working on these questions.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report.
I have simplified the proof given by Frick and have been working on the remaining questions. The work involves the methods used by Ozaydin and developed further by Mabillard and Wagner (Eliminating Tverberg Points- an analogue of Whitney Trick). The symmetric groups and their orthogonal representations play an important role in solving the problem. This is one of the most important and difficult problems of Topological Combinatorics, which has attracted the attention of several active mathematicians like I.Barany, J.Matousek, G.M.Ziegler and a number of others. The counterexample of minimum dimension obtained by Frick is an almost 6- embedding of $\Delta^{95}\to R^{18}$. Recently, the minimum number in the counterexample has been brought down to an almost 6-embedding $\Delta^{65}\to R^12$ or in higher dimensions. It is not known whether we have a counterexample in the case $\Delta^{15}\to R^2$. The last question, which is highly geometric as well as very basic, is wide open and we are working to get a solution of this question.
3. Publications, if any, during the period of report: Research Papers
(i) Homology and Dimension- Further Pathological example (submitted) (ii) The Latest Counterexample to the Topological Tverberg Conjecture (Submitted) (iii) Strong Independence and the dimension of a Tverberg Set (jointly with Snigdha Choudhury) (submitted)
Books and Journals Published/ Edited
(iv) My book ‗Algebraic Topology, a Primer‟ published under the TRIM (#27) series of Hindustan Book Agency, New Delhi in the year 2003 has been revised and expanded to include three other chapters. Its second edition has appeared under the TRIM series of HBA in 2018. (v) The proposed book ―Topological Combinatorics‖ by me and S.D.Adhikari of HRI is in the final stages of completion. Springer Verlag has approached us to publish this book and we hope to finalize it soon. (vi) Editor, the Proceedings of the ―International Conference on Mathematical Analysis and Applications in Modeling (ICMAAM -2018) Kolkata, Springer- Verlag . (vii) Chief Editor, Journal of Indian Mathematical Society, 2018. (viii) Editor, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India (Physical Sciences), 2018.
4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report.
(i) Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Indian Mathematical Society, 2018-19. (ii) Guest of Honor, National Technology Day at the NASI, Allahabad, 2018. (iii) Chief Guest, Workshop of Group Theory, IITPatna, Patna, Dec 2018. 52 (iv) Chief Guest, National Workshop on Topology and Functional Analysis, LNM IIT, Jaipur, March 2019.
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any, during the period of report.
i. Delivered an invited talk entitled “The Tverberg Theorem-final example” at the ICMAAM conference at Jadavpur University, Jadavpur, Kolkata. ii. Delivered six lectures in the SPIM programme of HRI on ―Simplicial Homology‖, June-July 2018. iii. Delivered an invited talk at the annual conference of Bharat Ganit Parishad, organised by the Lucknow University, Lucknow, Nov. 2018. iv. Delivered two lectures entitled ―On Platonic Solids‖ during the National Mathematics Day organized by the NASI at Allahabad, Dec 22-23, 2018. v. Delivered a Key note address on ―Co-Hophicity of Manifold Groups‖ at the NASI-TMC programme organized by the Mathematics Department of IITPatna, Patna.
8. Prof. R. Sridharan Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad
The NASI hon. Scientist position was taken up on 29th Oct. 2018 and during the last six months, some preparatory work has been taken up towards development of new techniques for upper atmospheric research in collaboration with interested scientists in the Space Physics Laboratory, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. It is proposed to initiate the development in a collaboration mode as there is no one working with me on such related topics. Other Academic activities:
Attended the ‗International Symposium on Equatorial Aeronomy’, held in PRL, Ahmedabad and chaired a session during the symposium Conducted PhD review of a research fellow in PRL Completed a report on the scientific outcome from the CHACE experiment on the moon impact probe – Chandrayaan I, India‘s first mission to moon, on its completion of ten years. Reviewed scientific papers submitted to Advances in Space Research and Journal of Geophysical Research Chaired a committee constituted by the Advisory Committee for Space research (ADCOS) to ISRO, to review the progress of the Space Research activities in Universities and educational institutions under the Space Science Promotion Scheme (SSPS) of ISRO. Reviewed the progress in Dibrugarh University, Tezpur University and Calcutta University. Had been a member of the promotional committees of PRL Had been participating in the Critical Design Review (CDR) of the Scientific Payloads for Chandrayaan II mission, as a member of the committee constituted by Chairman ISRO Had been a member of the Comprehensive Technical Review committee (CTR) of the whole of Chandrayaan II mission and had participated in several meetings. Had been one of the invited members of the Integrated Technical Review (ITR) committee of Chandrayaan II that cleared the mission. Chaired sessions in the ISRO‘s structured training program. 53 As Chairman of the Research Advisory committee (RAC) conducted reviews of the research programs of the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG), Mumbai. As the member of the Governing council of IIG, attended the GC meetings. Attended the National Space Science Symposium in Pune (NSSS-2019): Conducted a few sessions during the symposium also served as the adjudicator for the best paper awards. Nominated by ISRO as a member of the payload/experiment selection committee for the proposed first mission to VENUS - Had attended several meetings to finalize the selection. Had been a member of the committee for the selection of experiments from elsewhere (other countries) for the Indian mission to VENUS. Attended the golden jubilee celebrations of the Space Physics Laboratory. Gave an invited talk on ‗Space Science Instrumentation from Ground and Space‘. Chaired the Special Review committee for the SPL experiments in Chandrayaan II which included assessing the readiness of the different groups that included data pipeline, availability of the necessary software to extract science from the mission at the earliest and also making the data available to the general user community. Had been a member of another committee that evaluated the readiness pertaining to the experiments from the Space Application Centre, Ahmedabad. Currently nominated as ‗Chief Editor‘ for the special issue of Current Science on the Chandrayaan II mission that would carry a Lander and a rover in addition to an Orbiter. It had been a period of hectic activity mostly involving some of the major upcoming space missions. The new proposed developments are in the initial stage.
9. Prof. Krishna Misra
IIIT-Allahabad
In silicon designing, synthesis and characterization of some novel antifungal compounds:
Our work done during this period relates to design and discovery of new plant based herbal antifungal compounds specifically for inhibiting filamentation in Candida albicans and thus attenuate its pathogenicity. These compounds are non-toxic and better solve the problem of drug resistance as well. Candida albicans is present in human biome in yeast shape and for most part found in skin and gastrointestinal cavity. It is generally sedate safe in nature; however polymorphic change causes flagellation leading to pathogenicity. The progress of yeast to hyphal shape is called dimorphism. The two structures are critical, however hyphal frame is one more obtrusive for human species. Our study has revealed four foremost pathways occurring in various cell organelles of C. albicans, i.e., glyoxalate pathway, Ras1-pka pathway, Ergosterol pathway and flagging pathways. Further the key components which can possibly influence most extreme pathways have been recorded as Efg1 protein, 2QZX i.e. secreted aspartic proteinase (Sap5), Erg11 and Glyoxalate pathway. We docked in-silico all the above mentioned targets with a class of polyphenols such as flavonoids, coumarins, chalcones and curcumin analogs and the best compounds were sorted. The compounds chalcone, coumarin, quercetin tetraacetate, quercetin penta acetate and (1E, 6E)-1, 7-di (1H-indol- 3-yl) hepta-1, 6-dience-3, 5-dione) were synthesised using unambiguous methods and further tested in-vivo for their sensitivity on the Candidanian strain SC5314.
54 We synthesized coumarin by Pechmann condensation reaction, chalcone via claisen Schmidt condensation, and quercetin tetra- and penta acetates by selective acetylation of quercetin. The synthesis of 1, 7-di (1H-indol-3-yl) hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione was done according to the synthesis of curcumin. All these compounds were purified and characterized with 1H NMR, 13C NMR spectra. These were tested for their sensitivity on the Candidanian strain SC5314. Quercetin pentacetate, quercetin tetracetate and coumarin have been found active in all four targets illustrating their high affinity. The marketed antifungal drugs are mainly azoles e.g Fluconazole has been reported with many side effects. Including fluconazole most azoles are very toxic for human biome. In such scenario the non-toxic polyphenols seem to show promising results as inhibitors of flagellation, the main cause of pathogenicity in Candida species. The details of synthesis are as follows,
(i). Synthesis of 7-Hydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one4 (1). A mixture of resorcinol (2.8 g, 25 mmol), malic acid (4 g, 29 mmol) and conc. sulfuric acid (10 mL) was stirred at r.t. for 1 h. The reaction mixture was heated to100°C and stirred for another 3 h. After cooling to r.t, ice water (50 g) was added to the reaction mixture and stirred for 0.5 h. The reaction mixture was filtered and dried to afford compound as white solid (Scheme 4.6). Crude product was purified with column chromatography, make elution gradient was ethyl acetate: hexane (5:5). (Light orange solid, yield 2.9g, 71%); Rf 0.49 (50% ethyl acetate: hexane); mp 230–231°C. IR (KBr) υmax (cm-1) 3429, 1627, 1236, 833; 1H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO) δ 10.57 (s, 1H), 7.96 – 7.92 (m, 1H), 7.53 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 6.82 – 6.74 (m, 1H), 6.72 (d, J = 2.2 Hz, 1H), 6.21 (d, J = 9.5 Hz, 1H). 13C NMR (101 MHz, DMSO) δ 161.77, 160.90, 155.97, 145.00, 130.19, 113.59, 111.88, 111.75, 102.63.ppm. HRMS (ESI): Calculated for + C9H6O3 [M+H] : 163.0317, found 163.0347. (ii). Synthesis of E chalcone (2). The synthesis of title compound 2 was conducted according to procedure described and slightly modified [37].To the stirred solution of sodium hydroxide (2.2g, 0.05 mol) in aq.ethanol (EtOH:H2O 50 : 2 mL ) at 0 ºC a solution of benzaldehyde (7.2g, 0.06 mol ) and acetophenone (6.8g, 0.05 mol) in ethanol (50 mL ) was added during 10 min. The reaction mixture was stirred for 12 h and reaction followed with TLC. After completion of reaction, water (200 mL) was added to the reaction mixture. The obtained precipitate of chalcone was filtered and washed with cold water, product (Scheme 4.7) weight was 10g. (2) (Light green solid; yield 10g, 71%); Rf 0.3 (5% ethyl acetate: hexane); mp 56–57°C. -1 1 IR (KBr) υmax (cm ) 3052, 1627, 1604, 1574; H NMR (800 MHz, CDCl3) δ 8.04 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 1H), 7.83 (d, J = 15.7 Hz, 1H), 7.65 (dd, J = 6.4, 2.7 Hz, 2H), 7.59 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.54 (s, 1H), 7.52 (t, J = 7.7 Hz, 2H), 7.45 – 7.41 (m, 3H). 13C NMR (201 MHz, CDCl3) δ 190.58, 144.88, 138.23, 134.90, 132.84, 130.60, 129.00, 128.67, 128.55, 128.50, 122.09, 77.25.ppm. HRMS (ESI): Calculated for C15H12O [M+H]+: 209.0888, found 209.0917. (iii). Synthesis of quercetin tetra acetate 4-(3,7-diacetoxy-5-hydroxy-4-oxo-4H- chromen-2-yl)-1,2-phenylene diacetate (3). To the stirred solution of quercetin (1g, 3.3 mmol) in dichloromethane (100 mL), 2-5 drops of pyridine were added followed with acetic anhydride (3.3 mL, 32 mmol). Reaction mixture was stirred at rt for 24 h and after completion of reaction the product (Scheme 4.8) was purified with column chromatography. Elution was made with gradient of ethyl acetate: hexane (39:61), and to give correnponding pure product (3). Light yellow solid; yield 650 mg, 43%; Rf (39 % ethyl acetate: hexane); mp 246- 248°C; IR (KBr) υmax (cm-1) 3119, 3022, 2935, 1749, 1711; 1H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl3) δ 12.10 (s, 1H), 7.83 – 7.67 (m, 2H), 7.45 – 7.29 (m, 1H), 6.86 (d, J = 2.0 Hz, 13 1H), 6.61 (d, J = 2.0 Hz, 1H), 2.43 – 2.27 (m, 12H). C NMR (101 MHz, CDCl3) δ 176.29, 168.21, 167.84, 167.76, 161.75, 156.37, 155.96, 144.66, 142.27, 132.23,
55 127.58, 126.57, 124.05, 108.83, 105.57, 101.19, 21.21, 20.70, 20.43. ppm. HRMS + (ESI): Calculated for C23H18O11 [M+H] : 471.0849, found 471.0880. (iv). Synthesis of quercetin pentacetate (2-(3, 4-diacetoxyphenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromene- 3, 5, 7-triyl triacetate) (4). The synthesis of title compound 4 was conducted according to procedure described and slightly modified [38]. To the stirred solution of quercetin (1 g, 3.3 mmol) in acetic anhydride (10 mL, 98 mmol), pyridine (1-3 mL) was added and the mixture refluxed for 2h and reaction monitored with TLC. After completion of reaction, 200 mL water was added in to reaction mixture. The productwas extracted with ethyl acetate, concentrated under reduced pressure. The product (Scheme 4.8) was purified with silica gel column chromatography. Elution was done with gradient of ethyl acetate: hexane (40:60). The pure product obtained was 1g (4). White solid; yield 1g, 62 %; Rf 0.5 (40% ethyl acetate: hexane); mp 190-192°C IR -1 1 (KBr) υmax (cm ) 3120, 3023, 1749, 1711; H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.72 (dd, J = 8.5, 2.1 Hz, 1H), 7.69 (d, J = 2.0 Hz, 1H), 7.36 (s, 1H), 7.34 – 7.33 (m, 1H), 6.88 (d, J = 13 2.2 Hz, 1H), 2.43 (s, 3H), 2.35 – 2.33 (m, 12H). C NMR (151 MHz, CDCl3) δ 170.07, 169.29, 167.90, 167.86, 167.84, 156.89, 154.30, 153.82, 150.45, 144.41, 142.24, 134.10, 127.81, 126.46, 123.96, 123.88, 114.81, 113.92, 109.01, 21.20, 21.06, 20.69, + 20.53.ppm. HRMS (ESI): Calculated for C25H20O12 [M+H] : 513.0955, found 513.0998. (v). Synthesis of 1,7-di(1H-indol-3-yl) hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione (5). The synthesis of title compound 5 was conducted according to procedure described and slightly modified [39]. To the stirred mixture of acetyl acetone (250 mg, 2.5 mmol) and boron trioxide (130 mg, 1.8 mmol) in Argon atmosphere a solution of indole-3- carboxaldehyde (725 mg, 5 mmol) in 35 ml of absolute ethyl acetate was added at rt during 15 min. Tributyl borate (5 mL, 18.5 mmol) was added in the reaction mixture and n-butyl amine (0.05ml,0.47 mmol) dissolved in ethyl acetate (5 mL) was added dropwise and mixture stirred for 20 hr at rt. Reaction was monitored with TLC, after completion of reaction, the mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and crude product 5 ( Scheme 4.9) diluted with 200 mL methanol, refluxed for 4h. The reaction mixture was again concentrated under reduced pressure. Crude product was finally purified with column chromatography, elution was made with gradient of ethylacetate: hexane (45:55). The pure product was obtained 700 mg. Red solid; yield 700 mg, 79 %; Rf 0.48 (45% ethyl acetate: hexane); mp 208-210°C IR (KBr) υmax (cm-1) 3320, 1749, 1711; 1H NMR (800 MHz, DMSO, 11.81 (s, 2H), 7.98 (dd, J = 10.4, 5.3 Hz, 2H), 7.93 (d, J = 2.7 Hz, 2H), 7.85 (dd, J = 16.0, 4.7 Hz, 2H), 7.47 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 2H), 7.23 – 7.16 (m, 4H), 6.62 (d, J = 15.9 Hz, 2H), 5.89 (s, 2H). 13C NMR (201 MHz, DMSO) δ 204.26, 194.65, 181.16, 137.98, 135.50, 133.39, 123.06, 121.12, 120.65, 117.07, 113.13, 112.45, 100.26. ppm. HRMS (ESI): Calculated for + C23H18N2O2 [M+H] : 355.1368, found 355.1400.
Scheme 1. Synthesis of 7-Hydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one (1).
Scheme 2. Synthesis of E-chalcone (2). 56 Scheme 3. Synthesis of pentacetate quercetin (3) and tetracetate quercetin (4).
Scheme 4. Synthesis of 1, 7-di(1H-indol-3-yl)hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione (5).
List of published papers
1. Manoj K. Shrivash. Sonali Mishra, Sneh Lata Panwar, Shabnam Sircaik, Jyoti Pandey, Krishna Misra; Attenuation of pathogenicity in Candida albicans by application of polyphenols;J Microbial and Biochemical Technology, (2018) 10: 27-39,, DOI 10 4172/1948-5945.1000392. 2. Shrivash MK, Mishra S, UpmaNarain , Pandey J, Misra K, In-silico designing,chemical synthesis, characterization and in-vitro assessment of antibacterial properties of some analogues of curcumin, Microbial Pathogenesis (2018) 123, 89-97, doi: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.06.030. Impact Factor: 3.15 ISSN: 0882-4010 3. Satendra Singh, Dev Bukhsh Singh, Shivani Singh, Rohit Shukla,,Pramod W. Ramteke Krishna Misra; Exploring Medicinal Plant Legacy for Drug Discovery in Post- genomic Era ;Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., India, (2018) 4. Rajesh K. Kesharwani, Dev Bukhsh Singh, Durg Vijay Singh, Krishna Misra, Computational study of curcumin analogues by targeting DNA topoisomerase Network Modeling Analysis in Health Informatics and Bioinformatics, accepted Nov. 2018 accepted Nov.3, 2018 DOI: 10.1007/s13721-018-0179-8 Received: 3 April 2018 / Revised: 31 October 2018 / Accepted: 3 November 2018 © Springer- Verlag GmbH Austria, part of Springer Nature 2018 57 5. Mishra S, Rastogi S, Shrivash MK et al. (2018) Polyphenols restrain virulence in Candida albicans by inhibiting Efg1, the protein responsible for its Hyphal morphogenesis, Journal of Applied Biomedicine. (Accepted) Impact factor: 1.302 (2014)
2.1.8. Scientific / Research Contribution of NASI-Senior Scientist Platinum Jubliee Fellows
1. Dr. Ram Sagar Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Star clusters, AGNs and sizes of their central black hole
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report The 3.6-m Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT) project was initiated in 2007 by the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES; Nainital, India) in partnership with Belgium. A brief overview of installation activities at site and a few preliminary scientific results obtained from recent observations are presented along with performance and global potential of the 3.6-m DOT in the field of galactic astronomy. The telescope is capable of providing internationally competitive science once high resolution spectrograph and other planned modern back-end instruments become operational. Using a semi-automated quantitative method, we estimated parameters of 179 star clusters (17 for first time) using the V and I band photometric data from the Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment (OGLE) III survey. An online catalogue of parameters is published. Our catalogues along with other published ones are used to study spatio-temporal distribution of star clusters. Most of the clusters located in the southern part of the Small Magelanic Cloud (SMC) are in the age range 600 Myr-1.25 Gyr, whereas, the clusters younger than 100 Myr are mostly found in the northern SMC, with the central SMC showing continuous cluster formation. The peak of the cluster age distribution is identified at 130 ± 35 Myr. We therefore suggest that the burst of cluster formation at 130 Myr is due to the most recent LMC-SMC interaction. Active galactic nuclei (AGN) are high luminosity sources powered by accretion of matter onto Super Massive Black Holes (SMBHs) located at the centres of galaxies. The SMBH is surrounded by a broad emission line region (BLR) and a dusty torus which are not resolvable using any conventional imaging techniques available today. The extent of the dusty torus in AGN is estimated by the reverberation mapping (RM) technique. REMAP (REverberation Mapping of AGN Program), initiated by us in the year 2016, is a long-term photometric monitoring program. It involves accumulation of suitably long and well sampled light curves in the optical and near-infrared bands to measure the time delays between the light curves in different wavebands. These delays are used to determine the radius of the inner edge of the dust torus. REMAP has resulted in the determination of the extent of the inner edge of the dusty torus in one AGN namely H0507+164 and results are published in MNRAS.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report:
I. DETERMINATION OF THE SIZE OF THE DUST TORUS IN H0507+164 THROUGH OPTICAL AND INFRARED MONITORING; Amit Kumar Mandal, Suvendu Rakshit, Kshama S Kurian, C S Stalin, Blesson Mathew
58 Sebastian Hoenig, Poshak Gandhi, Ram Sagar and M B Pandge; Mon. Not. R. Astr. Soc. 475 (2018) 5330--5337/astro-ph/ 1801.07018; (Citations: 4).
II. SCIENTIFIC SUMMARY OF THE FIRST BINAWORKSHOP; Ram Sagar; Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; 87 (2018) 391—397; (Citations: 2)
III. 3.6-M DEVASTHAL OPTICAL TELESCOPE PROJECT: COMPLETION AND FIRST RESULTS; B. Kumar et al. including Ram Sagar; Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; 87 (2018) 29—41; (Citations: 5)
IV. THE 4M INTERNATIONAL LIQUID MIRROR TELESCOPE; J. Surdej et al. including Ram Sagar; Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; 87 (2018) 68—79; (Citations: 4)
V. STAR CLUSTERS IN THE MAGELLANIC CLOUDS. II. AGE-DATING, CLASSIFICATION, AND SPATIO-TEMPORAL DISTRIBUTION OF THE SMC CLUSTERS; P. K. Nayak, A. Subramaniam, S. Choudhury and Ram Sagar; Astr. Astrophys. 616 (2018) id.A187 (1-24) /astro-ph/ 1804.00635; (Citations: 1).
VI. SCIENTIFIC POTENTIAL OF THE INDO-BELGIAN 3.6-M DOT IN THE FIELD OF GALACTIC ASTRONOMY; Ram Sagar, B. Kumar and A. Subramaniam; Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; (2019) in press.
VII. REMAP: DETERMINATION OF THE INNER EDGE OF THE DUST TORUS IN AGN BY MEASURING TIME DELAYS; A. K. Mondal et al. including Ram Sagar; Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; (2019) in press.
4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report: A long term research collaboration has been established with ARIES, Nainital and few other academicians as can be seen from the list of publications.
5. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report : I. Under my leadership, Alexander von Humboldt Foundation of Germany has approved a long-term (July 2018 to June 2021) research group linkage program between Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore and European Southern Observatory (ESO), Germany. There is no honorarium under this program. II. Chief Editor; Journal of Astrophysics & Astronomy till Dec 2018. III. Associate Editor of publications of Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore since January 2019.
6. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report :
I. Indian mega initiatives as a part of Multi-messenger astronomy; Invited talk in Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkatta during September 18-19, 2018. II. Three talks on 3.6-m Devasthal telescopes and AstroSat at ESO, Germany during my 15 days stay from Sep 25 to Oct 8, 2018. III. Scientific potential of the indo-belgian 3.6-m dot in the field of galactic astronomy; Invited talk in 2nd Belgo-Indian Network for Astronomy & 59 Astrophysics (BINA) workshop at Brussels, Belgium during Oct 9 to 12, 2018. IV. Four invited talks on Star clusters, Devasthal Observatory and AstroSat facilities at Kumaon, University, Nainital during October 23-24, 2019. V. Excellent performance of 3.6-m DOT and its global importance; ARIES, Manora Peak, Nainital on October 24, 2018. VI. Two talks on Multi-messenger Astronomy; Winter school in Astronomy, Astrophysics and Cosmology organized by Department of Physics, Gauhati University, Guwahati from January 8-10, 2019. VII. Formation and evolution of star clusters; Invited talk and Chief Guest at the Inaugural function; MANNU, Hyderabad from January 20 to 24, 2019.
2. Prof. M. Udayakumar University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Oxidative stress is ubiquitous under any abiotic stress. RCCs, generated from oxidative stress induced ROS, have longer residence time and thus affects the cell metabolism. Plants evolved several scavenging enzymes to detoxify the highly stable cytotoxic RCCs. The emphasis therefore is to characterize the diverse AKRs, the key enzymes that scavenge RCCs besides identifying several natural non- enzymatic molecules that detoxify RCCs. Since AKRs scavenge a broad spectrum of RCCs, it is relevant to assess the substrate specificity of the AKRs. Since the coordinated expression of several AKRs is essential, the other aspect that needs to be addressed is to characterize the stress specific upstream TFs regulating AKR expression. 2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report The two major aspects addressed in the present study is to characterize, a) Natural molecules that detoxify RCCs, b) The AKRs present in the rice genome Using different bioassay workflows, we characterized several natural metabolites that detoxify RCCs, and thus improve carbonyl stress effect. The most promising were acetyl salicylic acid, aminoguanidine, pyridoxamine, curcumin and carnosine. In rice, we identified 27 AKRs, assessed their expression under oxidative stress by microarray. The substrate specificity of these AKRs was studied by docking and MD simulation studies using Schrodinger tool. The enzymes undergo conformational changes on interaction with cofactor NADPH subjecting to MD simulations. The interaction with co-factor increase the active site loops and the complex docking suggests that different amino acids interact with different RCCs with different affinigy. ALDH.7 has attained maximum conformational change with high docking value with broad range of substrate specificity. ALDH.7 therefore could be a potential candidate AKR for improving tolerance against carbonyl stress. Promoter analysis of AKRs identified several stress specific cis elements including binding sites of bZIP group of TFs. Further, functional relevance of bZIP23 was validated by chemical genomics approach. By bioinformatics workflow, structure of bZIP23 was predicted and potential small molecules (Serotonin) that dock and inhibit the function identified. In presence of Serotonin, the seedlings show susceptible phenotypes under stress, and the bZIP target genes showed less expression signifying the relevance of this approach and bZIP23 in stress adaptation.
60 In the minilysimeter phenomics facility, drydown stress protocols were developed to create similar stress across the genotypes to assess carbonyl stress and the expressionof AKRs. The study provides insights on the probable AKRs for improving stress adaptation and few natural molecules to mitigate stress. 3. Publications, if any during the period of report a) Detoxification of reactive carbonyl compounds by enzymatic and non-enzymatic methods reduce cytotoxic stress in seedlings. Ambekar Nareshkumar, Sindhu Subbarao, Amarnathareddy Vennapusa, Reema Banarjee, Mahesh J Kulkarni, Vemanna S Ramu, Udayakumar M, 2019, Journal of growth regulation (In review). b) Cross talk between drought and bacterial pathogens affecting rice adaptations in changing agricultural systems. Frontiers in plant science Rahul B, Pooja, S, Prasanna kumar, Sheshshyee MS, Udayakumar M, Vemanna S Ramu. Frontiers in plant Science (2018), c) Prathibha M. Dharmappa, Pushpa Doddaraju, Mohankumar V. Malagondanahalli, Raju B. Rangappa,. N. M. Mallikarjuna, Sowmya H. Rajendrareddy, Ramachandra Ramanjinappa, Rajanna P. Mavinahalli, Trichy Ganesh Prasad, Makarla Udayakumar and Sreeman M. Sheshshayee., Introgression of Root and Water Use Efficiency Traits Enhances Water Productivity: An Evidence for Physiological Breeding in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)., Rice (2019) 12:14., doi.org/10.1186/s12284-019-0268-z. Impact factor- 3.039, NAAS-9.04 d) Ashwini N, Sajeevan RS, Udayakumar M and Nataraja K N, 2018, Identification of splice variant of OsGBF1 in Oryza sativa ssp. indica genotypes under salinity stress, 3 Biotech. (Springer) Aug; 8(8):345. doi: 10.1007/s13205-018-1370-4. e) Substrate specificity of cytotoxic compounds detoxifying proteins and their induction by regulatory proteins determines the stress tolerance in rice. Vemanna S Ramu, Akshay Utarkar, Ashwin vargheese, Vidya Niranajn, Udayakumar M , 2019 (In communication) 4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report:
a) Om Prakash Bhasin Award- 2018 in Agriculture and allied sciences b) Life time achievement award, National plant physiology society c) Member, Governing body and Research advisory committee, NIPGR, New Delhi. d) Member, DBT Programme Support on Fundamental Molecular Investigations in Biotechnology – Phase II e) Member, Scientific and Technical Appraisal and Advisory Group (STAG) f) Co-Chair BBSRC-DBT project review committee g) Co-chair, Seri-Biotechnology h) Member , NASF- ICAR i) Member, Expert Committee for the GoK funded TBI program C-CAMP, Karnataka j) Member, Core Advisory Committee for Centre of Excellence in Agri- Innovation at C-CAMP 5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report: 1. Presentation on ―Drought response of the plants- need for high throughput phenomics platforms‖, IIT, Guahati, 09.02.2019 2. Invited talk at Phenotyping- ―An dispensable step for functional genomics and crop improvement programme‖ Hyderabad on 02.02.2018
61 3. Invited talk at International Plant Physiology Conference (IPPC), on ―A Mini- Lysimeter Phenomics Platform to assess genetic variability in real time changes in Water Use Efficiency and components traits‖, at Lucknow, on 3.12.2018
6. Few Photographs:
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F 4 4 4 3 1 4 4 1 1 3 3 3 1 3 1 1 1 1 6 4 4 4 2 7 9 5 4 6 8 4 6 1 4 9 1 08 08 08 02 05 01 01 04 06 03 03 03 08 02 01 01 01 01 01 04 04 04 01 04 04 04 04 04 01 08 04 02 08 01 05 1g 1g 1g 3g 0g 7g 7g 0g 1g 4g 4g 4g 2g 3g 0g 0g 0g 0g 4g 4g 4g 4g 2g 5g 5g 5g 9g 4g 2g 1g 4g 1g 1g 8g 9g -01.000 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
-2.00
b) c)
Figure 1. Characterization of Rice AKRs, a) Expression of 27 AKRs in contrasting rice genotypes under oxidative stress. b) Cofactor NADPH binding in AKR, Interaction of AKR1 with Crotonaldehyde, c) Root mean square deviation (RMSD) plot for the Cα atom, depicting the structural change on binding with respective RCC with different proteins.Interaction of AKR1 with Crotonaldehyde, ADH1 with 4-Hydroxy-trans-2-nonenal, ALDH with 4-Hydroxy-trans-2-nonenal, and glyoxalase with 4-Hydroxy-trans-2-nonenal .
62 Figure 2. Assessing oxidative response in seedlings using serotonin HCL with 20 µM MV under high light conditions. Seedling growth (a), Membrane integrity by Evan’s blue (b), NBT staining (c), percent reduction in growth and chlorophyll content over MV (d) were measured after recovery. The ability of Serotonin HCL to block bZIP23 was validated by testing ABA sensitivity and expression of bZIP 23 target genes. Figure e). Shows seedling growth, f). Shoot and root length, g & h). Shows expression of bZIP23 target genes OsPP2C49 and OsOTS1 respectively.
3. Dr. Pijush K. Das Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
The work in my laboratory is centred on studying the biology of macrophages with a view to formulating strategies for better therapy against macrophage-associated diseases using visceral leishmaniasis as model macrophage disease. The key question we try to address is how macrophage signaling pathways that lead to production of robust defense molecules are hijacked by Leishmania parasites. Deciphered the intricate survival mechanism that Leishmania has devised to frustrate macrophage defense signalling, which is a crucial contribution not only in understanding the biology of Leishmania parasites but also suggests innovative targets to arrest the infection process of macrophage-associated diseases in general.
2. Significant research / scientific findings during the period of report
We showed that Leishmania infection-mediated down regulation of programmed cell death 1 receptor (PD-1) receptor and subsequent dampening of PD-1/SHP2
63 signaling helped the parasite in the sustenance of infection-induced pro-survival AKT activation coupled with pro-apoptotic BAD inhibition, thereby imparting host resistance to apoptosis. But, during late phase of infection, PD-1 expression was significantly increased without activating host cell apoptosis and its inhibition led to markedly decreased parasite survival, along with increased production of TNFα, IL-12, ROS and NO. Increased PD-1 led to inactivation of AKT resulting in nuclear sequestration of FOXO-1. Transfecting infected cells with constitutively active FOXO-1 (CA-FOXO) led to increased cell death thereby suggesting that nuclear FOXO-1 might be inactivated. Infection significantly induced the expression of SIRT1, which inactivated FOXO-1 by deacetylation and its knock down led to increased apoptosis. SIRT1 knockdown also significantly decreased parasite survival along with increased production of TNFα, ROS and NO. Administration of SIRT1 inhibitor, sirtinol (10 mg/kg body weight) in infected mice decreased spleen parasite burden and a synergistic effect was found with PD- 1 inhibitor. Collectively, our study showed that Leishmania utilizes SIRT1/FOXO- 1 axis for differentially regulating PD-1 signaling and though interconnected, both pathways independently contribute in intracellular parasite survival. All these work have great potential in formulating robust intervention strategies against the dreaded intra-macrophage disease visceral leishmaniasis of national importance.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
i. Palit S. and Das P.K. (2018) Extracellular Matrix Interacting Proteins of Trypanosomatids: Adhesion and Invasion of Host Tissues in Molecular Biology of Kinetoplastid Parasites. Ed. Majumder, H.K., pp 207-220, Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
ii. Roy, S., Saha, S., Gupta, P., Ukil, A. and Das, P.K. (2019) Crosstalk of PD-1 signaling with the SIRT1/FOXO-1 axis during the progression of visceral leishmaniasis. J. Cell Sci. Vol 132 [E-pub ahead of print]. iii. Basu, M. and Das P.K. (2019) Role of reactive oxygen species in infection by the intracellular Leishmania parasites in Oxidative Stress in Microbial Diseases Eds. Chakraborti, S., Chakraborti, T., Chattopadhyaya, D.J. and Shaha, C. Springer Nature Publications. (In press). iv. Biswas, A., Bhattacharjee, A. and Das, P.K. (2019). Role of cAMP homeostasis in intra-macrophage survival and infectivity of unicellular parasites like Leishmania in: "Leishmaniasis - from Basic Research to the Field" Ed. Bhattacharya, S. InTech d.o.o, Rijecka, Croatia-European Union. (In press),
4. Award / Honour / Recognition, if any during the period of report
Invited by Odisha Science Academy to act as a Member of the Expert Panel for Selection of Awardees for Biju Patnaik Award for Scientific Excellence & Samanta Chandra Sekhar Award at Bhubaneswar.
5. Invited talk (s) / Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report
Series of Popular lecture of Science Awareness Programme of NASI and INSA organized by NASI, Local Chapter Kolkata and INSA Local Chapter, Kolkata in various schools of West Benga
64 4. Prof. Saraswathi Vishveshwara Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Title: Network Approaches for understanding Structure-Function Relations in Proteins. Theme of the work done: Mathematical techniques have been developed to rigorously compare networks and to identify key players responsible for network integrity. The techniques have been applied to understand the structure-function relationships in the G- protein coupled receptors (GPCR), which is a versatile family of integral membrane proteins and mediate several crucial biological and patho-physiological processes.
2. Significant research/scientific findings
a) Identification of Crucial Elements for Network Integrity: A graph spectral method has been developed to quantitatively evaluate the importance of each element (node) and their connectivities (edges) in maintaining the integrity of a complex network. This is achieved through perturbing the original network by systematically deleting the nodes and edges. The effect of such perturbation is evaluated from the network scoring scheme (NSS), developed earlier in our lab. The method is validated by investigating the structures of muscarenic receptor proteins and the details are published in reference 1. Allosteric regulation in GPCRs: The proteins of GPCR family control a variety of physiological processes by responding to a diverse set of extracellular stimuli and mediate cellular signalling by interacting with heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins (G-proteins). Currently we have investigated a selected set of GPCR structures by graph spectral method to understand the mechanism through which such diverse processes are controlled. In particular, the phenomenon of allostery, which is sometimes elusive to known methods of observation, has been investigated in GPCRs and a manuscript is being prepared for submission. b) A perspective/review of networks in Biology: The graph spectral method for the investigation of protein structure networks is reviewed from the perspective of it‘s development and future applications. Also, the potential of the method for investigation of other complex biological networks is discussed in the article recently published as part of the special issue on women in computational chemistry (published by American Chemical Society-JCIM, (reference 3))
3. Publications
1. Vasundhara Gadiyaram, Anasuya Dighe and Saraswathi Vishveshwara,(2018) "Identification of Crucial Elements for Network Integrity: A Perturbation Approach through Graph Spectral Method" Int J Adv Eng Sci Appl Math. doi.org/10.1007/s12572-018-0236-7
2. Kodye L Abbott, Chloe S Chaudhury, Natasha Narayanan, Aneesh Chandran, Saraswathi Vishveshwara, Zdenek Dvorak, Sridhar Mani, Satyanarayana R Pondugula,(2019) ―Belinostat, at Its Clinically Relevant Concentrations, Inhibits Rifampicin Induced CYP3A4 and MDR1 Gene Expression‖ Mol Pharmacol. 95(3):324-334. doi: 10.1124/mol.118.114587.
65 3. Vasundhara Gadiyaram, Smitha Vishveshwara and Saraswathi Vishveshwara(2019) ― From Quantum Chemistry to Networks in Biology: A Graph Spectral Approach to Protein Structure Analyses‖ Journal of Chemical Information and Modeling, doi: 10.1021/acs.jcim.9b00002
4. Patents filed/collaborations established: Patents filed: Nil: Collaboration initiated with Physics/Mathematics group at the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, USA (related to reference 3)
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
1. ―Networks in Biology‖ IITKanpur, December 8, 2018. 2. ―Graph Spectral Approach to Protein Structure Comparison: Implication to Allostery‖ IITKanpur- December 9, 2018. 3. ―Graph Spectral Method for Protein Structure Networks: Application to Structure Comparison and Functional insights‖ IIT-Bombay, February 16, 2019. 4. ―Protein Structure and Function: Through the Lens of Side-Chain Networks‖ NCBS, Bengaluru, February 18, 2019.
6. Few Photograph:
Figure Legend: Network comparison is made from the spectra of graphs, which capture maximum information with minimal loss. The scores presented here capture local as well as global differences between protein structure networks of functional or structural importance and can be adapted to characterize or compare networks of interest in other disciplines [Ref: V Gadiyaram, Sm Vishveshwara, Sa Vishveshwara, J. Chem. Inf. Model., March,2019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.9b00002]
66 5. Dr. Ashwani Kumar Rai Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Salt stress responses in cyanobacteria: Relationship between redox homeostasis, antioxidative capacity and sulfur nutrition Cyanobacteria constitute an integral part of microbial community of rice paddy and sugarcane fields, and contribute significantly to the nitrogen economy, produce plant growth regulators exerting beneficial effect on crops, release exopolysaccharides that provide stability to the soil and increase moisture-holding capacity, but these properties are influenced by various factors including salinity. Priming of the plants, known since long can train them to tolerate future bigger stresses, but the mechanism behind the process is poorly known. This prompted us to investigate the effect of the two salts sulfate and chloride of sodium on the proteome and the physiologic responses to salinity of salt-primed cyanobacterium Anabaena fertilissima.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
Salinity is a serious threat to agriculture productivity. Beneficial microbes could be a simple and low-cost biological method to mitigate the salt toxicity. Present study discerns the proteome abundance and physiologic mechanisms responsible for salt tolerance in salt-primed Anabaena fertilissima. Salt-primed cells grew luxuriantly at salt concentration otherwise lethal to the cyanobacterium. Salinity impaired metabolic activities in parent cells, but not in the salt primed. Antioxidant activities were almost identical in salt-primed (exposed to 500 mm NaCl) and control cells (unexposed to salt). Salinity altered the abundance of large number of protein species under different salt-stress regimes. and increased the expression of all the four identified proteins (photosystem I reaction centre subunit XII (psaM), epoxyqueuosine reductase, response regulator protein VraR and molybdopterin biosynthesis protein). Notably, salt-primed cells registered minimal hyper accumulation of these proteins. Lesser accumulation of these identified proteins in salt mixture stressed cells than that of NaCl stressed cells revealed that the availability of sulphur during salt-stress relieved the salt-toxicity, while Cl- increased it. It is inferred that salt-priming has enabled the cells to develop a different defense mechanism against salinity stress, which was greater, rapid, robust and costed the least or negligible energy to the cyanobacterium compared to the defenses induced in those directly stressed. The technique appeared a simple and preferred way to make cyanobacterium salt tolerant and an excellent candidate as biological fertilizer of the saline fields, which could play a significant role in sustainable agriculture, and may be tried to improve salt tolerance of crop plants.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
1. Rai AK and Swapnil P 2019. Proteomic analysis of the salt-adapted and directly salt-(NaCl and NaCl+Na2SO4 mixture) stressed cyanobacterium Anabaena fertilissima. J Appl Phycol. 31:1185–1196. 2. Swapnil P and Rai AK. 2018. Physiological responses to salt stress of salt- adapted and directly salt (NaCl and NaCl+Na2SO4 mixture)-stressed cyanobacterium Anabaena fertilissima. Protoplasma. 255: 963–976.
67 3. Rai, A.K. 2018. Agricultural nitrogen management for sustainable development and global food security. J Sci Res 63: 75-84. 4. Pathak N, Bhaduri A and Rai AK. 2018. Sesame: Bioactive compounds and health benefits. In: J.M. Mėrillon and K.G. Ramawat, (eds.) Reference Series in Phytochemistry. Bioactive Molecules in Food, pp. 1-20, Springer International Publishing, Switzerland.
4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report
Banaras Hindu University has conferred the status of Distinguished Professor 5. Few Photographs
Growth of Anabaena fertilissima at different NaCl concentrations
Representative two-dimensional electrophoretograms of salt-stressed and unstressed A. fertilissima proteins (pI region of 4–7). a Control, parent cells unexposed to salt, b salt-primed cells exposed to 500 mM NaCl, c cells exposed to 250 mM NaCl, and d NaCl + Na2SO4 mixture (125 mM, each). Arrows of similar color show identical protein spots on the gels. Protein spots in circles were used for MALDI-TOF-MS analyses and further characterization.
68 6. Dr. R. Nagaraj CSIR- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Engineering of peptides: Antibacterial activity with special reference to human defensins: generation of variants with improved activity but with minimal changes. Peptide self-assembly: (a) The importance of introducing beta turns in Abeta peptides i.e. peptide-turn-peptide sequences and examine their propensity to form amyloid fibrils. Hydrogels: Investigation of hydrogel formation by Abeta peptides and detailed characterization of their hydrogels. (b) Studies on the aggregation behavior of fatty acylated aliphatic, hydrophobic dipeptides.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
Defensins: They are important components of innate immunity in humans. We have designed defensin analogs by facile modifications to increase their hydrophobicity. N-terminal myristoylation of cationic peptides with variable cationic amino acids and a single disulfide bond between the N- and C- terminal ends, results in enhanced antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Facile chemical modification such as myristoylation on judiciously chosen sequences with respect to positioning of cationic residues, particularly in mammalian defensins, could lead to peptides with improved antimicrobial activity. This work demonstrates that basic research in the area of peptide antibiotics taking a cue from nature could aid in drug development. Peptide Self-assembly: Self‐assembly of β‐turn motif‐connected amyloid peptides was investigated. Our results indicate that β-hairpin conformation modulates the aggregation propensity of short amyloidogenic sequences, making them more aggregation-prone. Largely non-amyloidogenic sequences were rendered amyloidogenic, suggesting β-hairpin to be an important conformation in the context of amyloid formation. The aggregation of amyloidogenic peptides could be modulated by suitably incorporating the β-turn motifs. Hydrogel Formation by Abeta peptides: An analog of Aβ16-22 (Ac- KLVFFAEam) where F20 has been replaced by Y forms self- supporting soft gels at concentrations ≥2 mM even though the end-capped parent peptide does not form hydrogel even at 10-fold higher concentration. The gel supports the growth of cultured cells and causes sustained release of therapeutic drugs. Peptide hydrogels formed by short Abeta peptides have potential application in regenerative medicine and slow release of drugs.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
1: Datta D, Harikrishna A, Nagaraj R, Chaudhary N (2018) Self‐assembly of β‐turn motif‐connected tandem repeats of Aβ16‐22 and its aromatic analogs. Peptide Science. doi.org/10.1002/pep2.24099
2: Yadav K, Rao JL, Srinivas R, Nagaraj R, Jagannadham MV. (2018) Characterization of acetylated histidine b1-ion structure: A competition between oxazolone and side chain imidazole moiety. Eur J Mass Spectrom. 24:261-268.
3: Krishnakumari V, Guru A, Adicherla H, Nagaraj R. (2018) Effects of increasing hydrophobicity by N-terminal myristoylation on the antibacterial
69 and hemolytic activities of the C-terminal cationic segments of human-β- defensins 1-3. Chem Biol Drug Des. 92:1504-1513.
4: Jagannadham MV, Kameshwari DB, Gayathri P, Nagaraj R. (2018) Detection of peptides with intact phosphate groups using MALDI TOF/TOF and comparison with the ESI-MS/MS. Eur J Mass Spectrom. 24:231-242.
5: Datta D, Kumar V, Kumar S, Nagaraj R, Chaudhary, N. (2019) Hydrogel Formation by an Aromatic Analogue of a β-Amyloid Fragment, Aβ16–22: A Scaffold for 3D Cell Culture. ACS Omega, 4: 620–627.
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report :
―Our defense against the Dark Arts of microbes‖ in Symposium on Biomolecular Interactions held in NCBS, Bengaluru, Feb 18-19, 2019.
5. Few Photographs:
7. Dr. Kanak Lata Dikshit Panjab University, Chandigarh
1. Title /theme of the work being done Title of the project : Structure-function studies on novel hemoglobins of Mycobacterium tuberculosis As a NASI-Senior Scientist, I have undertaken studies on novel hemoglobins of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), which carries two single domain truncated hemoglobin, HbN and HbO, along with a two-domain flavohemoglobin. In continuation of my previous studies, where we discovered several novel properties of mycobacterial hemoglobins, including their role in management of nitrosative and oxidatives stresses, we extended our studies to explore molecular mechanism of their function and biological role in their native host. We identified that one of the truncated hemoglobins, HbO, of Mtb carries an ATP binding and a phosphorylation site, which suggested that the HbO might be post-translationally, modified in Mtb. Using various complementary approaches, we confirmed that Mtb HbO, carries a redox depended autokinase activity and modulates adaptation of Mtb under hypoxia. These results have been communicated for the publication.
70 2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report : Main research findings of our studies are given below: A) We have identified and validated redox dependent autokinase activity in truncated hemoglobin, HbO, of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and confirmed this activity in vitro and in vivo. We discovered that phosphorylation of the HbO changes its olgomeric state, disrupting dimeric state of the HbO into monomer that binds with the cell membrane with high affinity and enhances oxygen uptake activity of its host. These observations were confirmed by creating a HbO knock out mutant of M. bovis and complementing it with the HbO of Mtb. (These results have been communicated). B) We identified that the promoter of the glbO gene of Mtb carries a site for the Sigma factor, SigH. Binding of SigH with the glbO gene promoter has been tested which revealed that transcription of the glbO gene might be regulated by SigH. These studies are underway. C) Type I flavohemoglobin of M. smegmatis has been cloned, expressed and characterized, which revealed that flavoHb of M. smegmatis carries a potent nitric-oxide dioxygenase activity and protects its host under nitrosative stress. These results have been published (Thakur, et. al., International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2018) D) A new class of mutli-subunit and chimeric truncated hemoglobins have been identified and their in silico analysis has been done. 3. Publications, if any during the period of report 1. Thakur, K. K., Kumar, A.K., and Dikshit, K. L. (2018) Type II flavohemoglobin of Mycobacterium tuberculosis oxidizes d-lactate and mediate electron transfer. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. 112, 868-875. 2. Hade, M. D., Datta, H., Singh, S., Thakur, N. K. and Dikshit, K. L. (2018) Autophosphorylation of haemoglobin HbO regulates ,metabolic adaptation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis under environmental stress. Antioxidant and Redox Signling (Under review, revision submitted). 4. Few photographs
71 Caption: The HbO of Mtb carries a novel autokinase activity. A. Primary sequence of the HbO showing ATP binding and phosphorylation site. B. Structure of MtbHbO ATPbinding loop and phosphorylation site. C. In vitro phosphorylation of the HbO in a concentrationdependent manner. E. Inhibition of phosphorylation of the HbO in the presence of anti-HbO. F. Effect of metal ion on phosphorylation of the HbO
8. Prof. Veena Tandon Biotech Park, Lucknow
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
―Massively Parallel Sequencing and Transcriptome Analysis of Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex, a zoonotic intestinal worm parasite in India‖
Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex is an echinostome intestinal trematode, commonly occurring as natural infection in pigs and dogs and causes the disease (echinostomiasis) worldwide. The human infection is acquired by ingestion of raw or poorly-cooked freshwater mollusks, fishes and tadpoles. Pila (a snail) is the main source of transmission of infection to humans in rural plains of India. In many areas of eastern UP and neighboring Bihar, this fluke infection is emerging in newer endemic foci. The draft whole genome of A. sufrartyfex (deposited in NCBI GenBank: BioProject Accession no.: PRJNA246746) is completed and WGS analysis is underway. The complete mitochondrial DNA genome is also annotated from the WGS and is updated at NCBI REFSEQ database.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
Project work progressed as detailed vide infra: Complete mitochondrial DNA genome of Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex isolate from Shillong was annotated with NCBI Refseq accession no. NC_037150. The NGS data of A. sufrartyfex is archived at SRA with the Bioproject accession number PRJNA246746, Biosample accession sample SAMN02769814 and SRA SRX540648. Brief overview of mitochondrial genome: The mt genome sequence is a circular DNA, 14,567 bp in length and contains 36 genes that are transcribed in the same direction, including 12 protein-coding genes (cox1-3, nad1-6, nad4L, atp6 and cytb), 24 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes and 2 ribosomal RNA genes (rrnL and rrnS), lacking the atp8 gene consistent with those of selected trematode species available on GenBank (Figure 1.).
The mt genome sequence have GC % - 37.40, % of A- (19%; 2790 nt), % of G - (26%; 3903 nt), % of T - (45%; 6338 nt) and % of C - (10%; 1551nt).
The overall Phylogenetic placement of A. sufrartyfex and other trematodes based on blast homolog hits are graphically outlined in Figure 2.
72 Figure 1. Circular mitochondrial DNA genome map of Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex isolate Shillong
Figure 2. Phylogenetic tree of mitochondrial DNA genome of Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex isolate Shillong
73 Table 1. Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex mtDNA annotations showing position of gene
Name Start Stop Strand Length cox3 936 1418 + 483 trnH(cac) 1435 1502 + 68 cob 1506 2558 + 1053 nad4l 2622 2885 + 264 nad4 2933 4018 + 1086 nad5-1_b 4084 4113 + 30 nad5-1_a 4116 4175 + 60 trnQ(caa) 4151 4219 + 69 trnF(ttc) 4256 4320 + 65 trnM(atg) 4346 4411 + 66 atp6 4512 4916 + 405 nad2 4987 5790 + 804 trnV(gta) 5844 5906 + 63 trnA(gca) 5917 5982 + 66 trnD(gac) 5997 6061 + 65 nad1-0 6089 6919 + 831 trnN(aac) 6971 7040 + 70 trnP(cca) 7046 7111 + 66
74 trnI(atc) 7116 7179 + 64 trnK(aag) 7184 7254 + 71 nad3 7265 7603 + 339 trnS1(agc) 7619 7678 + 60 trnW(tga) 7705 7769 + 65 cox1 7773 9233 + 1461 trnT(aca) 9347 9411 + 65 rrnL 9849 10385 + 537 trnC(tgc) 10395 10459 + 65 rrnS 10461 11185 + 725 cox2 11343 11786 + 444 nad6 11835 12272 + 438 trnY(tac) 12277 12342 + 66 trnL1(cta) 12344 12410 + 67 trnS2(tca) 12412 12471 + 60 trnL2(tta) 12498 12560 + 63 trnR(cga) 12561 12626 + 66 nad5-0 12743 13759 + 1017 trnG(gga) 14209 14272 + 64 trnE(gaa) 14282 14345 + 64
The genome assembly and annotation is in progress as detailed below:
Genome sequencing was done using long and short inserts in duplicates Folder: AD2 Raw reads of sample AD2 File:Run12_SO_1214_AD2-L_s_7_1_sequence.txt Sample AD2 long insert pair 1 File:Run12_SO_1214_AD2-L_s_7_2_sequence.txt Sample AD2 long insert pair 2 File:Run12_SO_1214_AD2-S_s_8_1_sequence.txt Sample AD2 short insert pair 1 File:Run12_SO_1214_AD2-S_s_8_2_sequence.txt Sample AD2 short insert pair 2 Folder: AD2 Raw reads of sample AD2 File:Run13_SO_1214_AD2_L_s_6_1_sequence.txt Sample AD2 long insert pair 1 File:Run13_SO_1214_AD2_L_s_6_2_sequence.txt Sample AD2 long insert pair 2 File:Run13_SO_1214_AD2-S_s_8_1_sequence.txt Sample AD2 short insert pair 1 File:Run13_SO_1214_AD2-S_s_8_2_sequence.txt Sample AD2 short insert pair 2
Genome sequencing raw data stats-
75 Sequence Counts Sequence counts for each sample. Duplicate read counts are an estimate only.
This plot shows the total number of reads, broken down into unique and duplicate reads.
Only sequences which first appear in the first 100,000 sequences in each file are analysed. This should be enough to get a good impression for the duplication levels in the whole file. Each sequence is tracked to the end of the file to give a representative count of the overall duplication level.
The duplication detection requires an exact sequence match over the whole length of the sequence. Any reads over 75bp in length are truncated to 50bp for this analysis.
Per Sequence Quality Scores
The number of reads with average quality scores. Shows if a subset of reads has poor quality.
76 The per sequence quality score report allows you to see if a subset of your sequences have universally low quality values. It is often the case that a subset of sequences will have universally poor quality; however these should represent only a small percentage of the total sequences.
Sequence Quality Histograms The mean quality value across each base position in the read.
The y-axis on the graph shows the quality scores. The higher the score, the better the base call. The background of the graph divides the y axis into very good quality calls (green), calls of reasonable quality (orange), and calls of poor quality (red). The quality of calls on most platforms will degrade as the run progresses, so it is common to see base calls falling into the orange area towards the end of a read.
77 Per Sequence GC Content The average GC content of reads. Normal random library typically have a roughly normal distribution of GC content.
This plot shows the GC content across the whole length of each sequence in a file and compares it to a modelled normal distribution of GC content. In a normal random library you would expect to see a roughly normal distribution of GC content where the central peak corresponds to the overall GC content of the underlying genome. Since we don't know the the GC content of the genome the modal GC content is calculated from the observed data and used to build a reference distribution. An unusually shaped distribution could indicate a contaminated library or some other kinds of biased subset. A normal distribution which is shifted indicates some systematic bias which is independent of base position.
Adapter Content The cumulative percentage count of the proportion of your library which has seen each of the adapter sequences at each position.
The plot shows a cumulative percentage count of the proportion of the library seen in each of the adapter sequences at each position. Once a sequence has been seen in a read it is counted as being present right through to the end of the read.
78 Sequence Duplication Levels The relative level of duplication found for every sequence.
In a diverse library most sequences will occur only once in the final set. A low level of duplication may indicate a very high level of coverage of the target sequence, but a high level of duplication is more likely to indicate some kind of enrichment bias (eg PCR over amplification). This graph shows the degree of duplication for every sequence in a library: the relative number of sequences with different degrees of duplication.
Only sequences which first appear in the first 100,000 sequences in each file are analysed. This should be enough to get a good impression for the duplication levels in the whole file. Each sequence is tracked to the end of the file to give a representative count of the overall duplication level.
The duplication detection requires an exact sequence match over the whole length of the sequence. Any reads over 75 bp in length are truncated to 50 bp for this analysis.
In a properly diverse library most sequences should fall into the far left of the plot in both the red and blue lines. A general level of enrichment, indicating broad over sequencing in the library will tend to flatten the lines, lowering the low end and generally raising other categories. More specific enrichments of subsets, or the presence of low complexity contaminants will tend to produce spikes towards the right of the plot.
Overrepresented sequences The total amount of overrepresented sequences found in each library.
79 This plot shows the number of sequences categorized as over represented.
Sometimes, a single sequence may account for a large number of reads in a dataset. To show this, the bars are split into two: the first shows the overrepresented reads that come from the single most common sequence. The second shows the total count from all remaining overrepresented sequences. A normal high-throughput library will contain a diverse set of sequences, with no individual sequence making up a tiny fraction of the whole. Finding that a single sequence is very overrepresented in the set either means that it is highly biologically significant, or indicates that the library is contaminated, or not as diverse as expected.
Per Base N Content The percentage of base calls at each position for which an N was called.
If a sequencer is unable to make a base call with sufficient confidence then it will normally substitute an N rather than a conventional base call. This graph shows the percentage of base calls at each position for which an N was called. It's not unusual to see a very low proportion of Ns appearing in a sequence, especially nearer the end of a sequence. However, if this proportion rises above a few percent it suggests that the analysis pipeline was unable to interpret the data well enough to make valid base calls.
80 Raw data processing and de-novo genome assembly The raw reads were examined for quality using FastQC and were trimmed for adapters and low quality bases towards 3'-end.The 8 high quality paired end reads generated with short and long inserts was assembled using velvet-1.2.10 for various k-mers and concluded that hash length (k-mer) 63 was better than others considering various parameters like total number of contigs generated, maximum contig length, total contig length and less number of N's.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
Publications:
A. Tandon, V and Das B.2018. Genistein: is the multifarious botanical a natural anthelmintic too? Journal of Parasitic Diseases. https://doi.org/10.1007/s 12639- 018-0984-0.
B. Biswal, D. Kumar, Roychowdhury, T., Pandey, P. and Tandon, V. 2018. De novo genome and transcriptome analyses provide insights into the biology of the trematode human parasite Fasciolopsis buski. PLOS ONE. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0205570 October 16, 2018.
C. Prasad YK, Dahal S, Saikia B, Bordoloi B, Tandon V, Ghatani S. Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex trematode infections in children, Bihar, India. Emerg Infect Dis. 2019, in press. {suggested online Aug [date cited]). https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2508.181427}
Books:
1. Yadav, A.K., Tandon, V. and Hoti, S.L. (Eds) 2018. Advances in Medico- Veterinary Parasitology: An Indian Perspective. Panima Publishing Corporation, New Delhi, India, 511pp. ISBN: 978-81-86535-80-6
81 - released at 14th ICOPA (Daegu, Korea) by Prof. Jong-Yil Chai, President of ICOPA 2018 and Dr. Eui-Hyug Hoang Director General of Health Examination Management Bureau, Korea Association of Health Promotion(KAHP)
Book Chapters:
1. Ghatani S, Arya Lalan Kumar and Tandon V. 2018. Emerging trematode zoonoses in India. In: Yadav, A.K., Tandon, V. and Hoti, S.L. (Eds) Advances in Medico-Veterinary Parasitology: An Indian Perspective. Panima Publishing Corporation, New Delhi, India, 511pp.
4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report
World Federation of Parasitologists‘ ‗Distinguished Parasitologist‘ Award 2018 at ICOPA 2018, Daegu Korea. Lucknow Management Association (Affiliated to All India Management Association): LMA Outstanding Woman Achievers‘ Award 2019 (Category- Academics) Editor-In-Chief- Journal of Parasitic Diseases (Springer)- 2016 onwards… continuing.
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report
o 19- 24 August- 14th International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA 2018), Daegu, Korea. Organized a session on- Session Title: ―Neglected tropical helminthozoonoses: Emerging diseases in Asia‖
Papers presented:
o Molecular Identification of trematode Procerovum varium as cause of ocular inflammation in children and its immunopathogenesis study Lalan K. Arya1, SR. Rathinam2, Lalitha Prajna2, Veena Tandon3 1Department of Microbiology, AIIMS, Patna,I ndia, 2Department of Uveitis Services, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India, 3Department of Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India, 4NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellow, Lucknow, India.
o Molecular characterization of some zoonotic cestodes (Eucestoda: Cyclophyllidea) using gene markers in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA Sunil Sharma1, 3, Bishnupada Roy1, Veena Tandon1, 2 1 Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, Meghalaya, India, 2 Biotech Park, Lucknow 226021, Uttar Pradesh, India, 3Advanced Level Biotech Hub Facility, St. Edmund‘s College, Shillong-793003, Meghalaya, India
82 o Status of artyfechinostomosis in India – an emerging foodborne trematodiasis? Sudeep Ghatani1*, Suman Dahal1, Yugal Kishor Prasad2, Veena Tandon3 1Department of Zoology, Sikkim University, Gangtok, Sikkim, India, 2S.S.L. Hospital and Research Centre Pvt. Ltd, Sitamarhi, Bihar, India, 3Biotech Park, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
o Genetic variation among liver flukes across an altitudinal gradient in Northeast India Damanbha Lyngdoh1, Sunil Sharma1, Bishnupada Roy1, Veena Tandon1,2 1Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, Meghalaya, India, 2Biotech Park, Lucknow 226021, Uttar Pradesh, India
o 7-8 September- 3rd National Symposium on Fish Parasites, Department of Zoology, Lucknow University, Lucknow . Plenary Talk on ―Fish-borne helminthozoonoses: status of trematodiasis in India‖.
o 1st -3rd Nov- 29th National Congress of Parasitology on Basic and applied aspects and International Symposium on Malaria Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana.
9. Prof. Govindarajan Padmanaban Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Malaria Parasite Biology- Drug Targets and Drug Candidates Two projects are being pursued. 1. To investigate the role of the parasite heme- biosynthetic pathway in Experimental Cerebral Malaria (ECM) 2. Mechanism of action of curcumin as an adjunct drug to treat ECM.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report A major finding in this project has been the demonstration that the de novo heme- biosynthetic pathway of the malaria parasite (P berghei) is essential for parasite virulence and gene Knock-outs (KOs) in the pathway do not cause Experimental Cerebral Malaria (ECM). The mechanism studies are continuing. In the present study, FC (Ferrochelatase, the last enzyme of the heme-biosynthetic pathway) KO treated parasites are found to be not sequestered in the brain. This was demonstrated by Bioluminescence of GFP-luciferase expressing parasites (wild type and FC KO). Flow Cytometric analysis has indicated decreased infiltration of CD8+ T-lymphocytes that are positive for perforin.TNFαand INF-γ in the brain of FCKO-infected mice compared to wild type. There is also a significant decrease in the expression of parasite proteins on the surface of RBC/reticulocytes in KO FC infected animals. All these results clearly establish that parasite heme is essential to cause ECM and is a new drug target.
83 In the second project, our earlier studies have shown that curcumin isolated from turmeric (commercial product) is an effective adjunct drug to treat malaria in mice. All the preparations used contain 75-80% curcumin and the rest accounted for by other curcumin derivatives. There has been this question as to what is the exact active molecule. Therefore, studies were conducted with pure curcumin (99%), demethoxy curcumin and bis-demethoxy curcumin to assess efficacy to prevent parasite recrudescence in mice infected with P berghei and sub-optimal dose of arteether (primary drug). The results indicate that pure curcumin gives the best results (100% survival) followed by the derivatives, proving that the active molecule is curcumin as such. After 7 years of effort, DCGI has finally approved the clinical trial with curcumin as an adjunct drug to treat simple malaria in the human with certain conditions. These are being attended to. 3. Publications, if any during the period of report 1. Padmanaban G, Nagaraj VA. (2018). Curcumin from turmeric as an adjunct drug? In: Studies in Natural Products Chemistry, Bioactive Natural Products. Edited by Atta-ur-Rahman. Volume 57, 2018, Pages 179-202. 2. Raju, L.S., Kamath, S., Shetty, M.C., Satpathi, S., Mohanty, A.K., Ghosh, S.K., Kolluri, N.Klapperich, C.M., Cabodi, M., Padmanaban, G., Nagaraj, V.A.: A genome mining base identification of Identical Multi-Repeat Sequences (IMRS) in Plasmodium falciparum genome for highly sensitive qPCR assay and its application in malaria diagnosis. The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics (2019); In press. 4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report Elected President of NASI; Appointed as Chancellor, Tamil Nadu Central University. 5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report Gave lectures on Drug targets in the malaria parasite, Growth of Biotechnology in India, Bio-Medical Technology, Agri-biotech in different institutions in the country. Gave convocation address at NIPER, Mohali. 6. Few Photographs
GFP-Luciferase tagged parasite expression in the brain as indicated by bioluminescence after luciferin injection into mice. (L-R) wild type parasite-infected; ALAS (δ-aminolevulinate Synthase) KO and FC KO parasite infected animals. The picture clearly reveals that the KO parasites are not sequestered in the brain.
84 10. Prof. P. K. Seth Biotech Park, Lucknow
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Project title: Identification of Biomarkers for selected neurological disorders using in- silico approaches and their validation.
Worldwide from between 1990 and 2015, neurological disorders have been reported to affect more than 450 million people as well as an increase in number of deaths by 36.7 percent. In India 30 million people suffers from various forms of neurological diseases and the average prevalence rate is as high as 2,394 per 100,000 of the population. More than 4 million people are suffering from Alzheimer‘s disease (AD), with an aging population the burden due to Parkinson‘s disease (PD) and other neurological disorders will be enormous. A WHO report estimated that in 2015 neurological disorders contributed to 95 million disability-adjusted life-years (DALY) which was projected to reach to 103 million in 2030 worldwide. Identification of biomarkers enabling early detection, monitoring of disease progression as well as susceptibility to environmental chemicals and response to therapeutic agents will be of inestimable advantage. Therefore the project aims to identify and validate a set of candidate biomarkers for AD and PD using bioinformatics tools.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
The efforts during the year were to identify possible biomarkers for Parkinson‘s disease. Though the exact pathogenesis of PD is still not known, genetic factors, environmental chemicals and their interaction have been suggested to play a significant role in the incidence and advancement of the disease. Among the genetic causes of Parkinson‘s disease, several candidate loci associated with PD through genome-wide association studies have been reported. Out of them PARK16 locus, including 5 different genes (i.e. NUCKS1, RAB7L1, SLC41A1, SLA45A3 and PM20D1) within 169.6 kb, has been validated at genome-wide significance, in different populations. NUCKS1 gene encodes a nuclear protein including phosphorylation sites for casein kinase 2 and cyclin-dependent kinases substrate. It is vertebrate specific gene, ubiquities in the brain and peripheral tissues. The casein kinase 2 has been reported to be involved in altering the dopamine signaling as well as hyper phosphorylation of alpha-synuclein. The cyclin-dependent kinases are reported to suppress dopamine D1 signaling in the striatum by phosphorylation of postsynaptic protein DARPP-32. Some earlier studies have also reported that cell-cycle protein mediated the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Hence, NUCKS1 appears to be important for cell cycle progression. Keeping in view the above, polymorphism in NUCKS1 (i.e. rs823093) may be involved in the pathogenesis of PD. Therefore, a comprehensive functional analysis of rs823093 variant of NUCKS1 gene was performed using multiple computational tools and databases. In RegulomeDB, the , predicted, score is 6, which suggest that rs823093 is likely to affect OTX2 motif and cause histone modification in blood and strong transcription in various parts of brain, heart, kidney and liver. These findings were also verified using HaploReg tool. Besides
85 PD the, PhenoScanner GWAS analysis, shows that rs823093 is associated with other diseases or phenotypes including plateletcrit, mucinous ovarian cancer, chronic kidney disease, particulate matter-associated QT prolongation, ovarian cancer, monocyte percentage of white cells, ulcerative colitis, late onset Alzheimers disease and others. PhenoScanner gene expression analysis shows that rs823093 is found to be significantly associated with expression of multiple genes in different human tissues together with NUCKS1. Using PhenoScanner metabolites analysis, rs823093 has been identified to be expressively associated with other 16 metabolites and Serotonin (5HT). Serotonergic dysfunction has been reported to have a direct relevance to Parkinson's disease non motor symptoms, like depression, fatigue, weight changes, and visual hallucinations. Substantia nigra of postmortem human brain exhibited different expression of NUCKS1 gene in PD patients as compared with healthy samples (PD = 16; Healthy = 09). These findings together indicate association of rs823093 with PD risk. Additionally, NUCKS1 is co-expressed with ZNF43 and PLIN1 genes and the ZNF43 share a protein domain with KRBA2 gene expressed in PD patients. As stated earlier that NUCSK1 is involved in cell growth and proliferation, the ZNF43 which encodes a zinc finger protein, also play an important role in gene regulation and development, and other cellular processes while PLIN1 gene promote lipolysis, and nduce the activation of the NF-κB inflammatory pathway in adipocytes. Likewise both ZNF43 and KRBA2 genes are encoding zinc finger proteins and have KRAB domain which is involved in maintenance of the nucleolus, cell differentiation, cell proliferation, apoptosis and neoplastic transformation. This further verified the possible association of these expressed genes in PD cases. Findings of current studies provide an insight that NUCKS1 gene and rs823093 variant may serve as susceptibility marker for PD. Using similar protocol, studies are being initiated to identify marker genes or their variants for Alzheimer‘s disease.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report Sarita Singh and Prahlad Kishore Seth. Functional association between NUCKS1 gene and Parkinson disease: As susceptibility biomarker. Journal of Computational Neuroscience (Communicated).
4. Award/Honor/Recognition, if any during the period of report 1. Life time achievement award, International Conference on Sustainable Organic Agri-hotri Systems by doctors Krishi Evam Baghvani Vikas Sanstha, Chatrapati Maharah Shahu Ji Shodh Evam Prashikshan Sansthan, Lucknow, November 28, 2018. 2. Life time achievement award of INSCR, International conference on Trends in Biotechnology for Innovations in Health and Environment Jointly organized by School of Biotechnology, KIIT University and INSCR at KIIT, Bhuvnashwar, Odisha, September 26-27, 2018. 3. Felicitated on 75th Birthday by the Indian Academy of Neurosciences 36th Annual Meeting of Indian Academy of Neurosciences & International Conference on Translational Research in Improving Mental Health, BHU, October 29-31, 2018. 4. Appointed Chairman, International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI), India.
86 5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report Delivered over 15 invited talks/lectures including:
1. Invited talk on ―Impact of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals on Developing Brain‖ in International Conference on Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): Past Experiences, Present Scenario and Future Approaches‖ at National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, December 13-14, 2018. 2. Special Lecture on ―BRAIN, BEHAVIOR and MICROBIOME‖, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, March 15, 2019. 3. Lecture on ―Brain the Master and Mysterious Organ‖, Igniting Young Minds, NASI-Science Awareness Program. The Elips Global School, Biswan, Distt. Sitapur. January 21, 2019,
6. Few Photographs
Figure1: Flowchart of methodology used in study (communicated for publication)
87 Figure2: NUCKS1 gene expression in 53 tissues from GTEx RNA-Seq of 8555 samples (570 donors) using UCSC Genome Browser (communicated for publication)
11. Dr.Suchitra Banerjee CIMAP, Lucknow
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Title: Metabolic engineering through ―hairy root‖ cultures of Atropa belladonna – an endangered medicinal plant, for therapeutically distinctive alkaloid production alternatives and targeted derivatization of phytomolecules for value-addition.
Theme: Atropa belladonna, a pharmaceutically prized medicinal plant, produces two therapeutically unique tropane alkaloids:- atropine and scopolamine. Their diversified therapeutic applications include ophthalmology, cardiology and gastroenterology. The recent uses of scopoalmine as antidepressant, prevention against vertigo/motion- sickness, have further escalated the global demand of this natural phytomolecule. Pharmaceutical companies, however, endure serious impediments concerning these phytomolecules, which include:
I. Inadequate supply of authentic raw materials owing to its restricted preferential growth habitat at high altitude Himalayan ranges and endangered condition. II. Poor water solubility causing reduced bio-availability and concurrent lowered therapeutic potency. To address these bottlenecks, multi-pronged approach has been initiated under this project: (a). Generation of efficient production alternatives of the targeted metabolites through hairy roots in bioreactor.
88 (b). Metabolic engineering via cloning of glucosyltransferase gene from heterologous plant system for: (i). Ingrained in-planta glucosylation of the inherent metabolites in HR clones of A. belladonna to increase their bioavailability; (ii). Improving the biotransformation efficiency of the resultant HR clones for steering glucosylation of exogenous substrates to improve their physico-chemical properties and safety profile. (c). Broadening of the genetic base of A. belladonna germplasm through somaclonal breeding approach to assimilate wider adoptability.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
(a) Generation of efficient production alternative through up-scaling in Bioreactor: In continuation to our previous efforts, the selected best growing / high yielding HR clone (AB HR-8 clone) of A. belladonna was successfully up-scaled in a modified 10L stirred tank bioreactor (BIOFLO 3000, M/s New Brunswick Scientific, USA), after optimization of multiple operational parameters as outlined in our earlier patented procedure (Banerjee et al. 2003). The biomass yield was noted to be 8.61 fold higher in case of bioreactor cultivation as compared to the 250 ml shake flask grown culture of the same age. The HPLC analysis revealed almost 4.83 and 5.37 fold enhancement in the Atropine and Scopolamine contents respectively in the bioreactor grown culture compared to that in the shake flask culture (Fig. 1).
(b) Metabolic engineering approach: (ii) Heterologous expression of glucosyltransferase gene for improving the biotransformation efficiency of exogenous substrates: In continuance to our earlier study relating to the second targeted objective, the CaUGT2 gene bearing transformed A. rhizogene ATCC 15834 strains was successfully utilized for induction of transgenic HR clones in A. belladonna that revealed 82 ± 3.9 % transformation frequency. Media optimizations for mass multiplication revealed callusing-free uninterrupted faster growth in only three out of total nine HR clones that retained prolific branching potentials during subsequent culture passages (Fig. 2A-B). The transgenic nature of these three transgenic HR clones was confirmed through the positive amplifications of the CaUGT2 gene (~ 1.5 Kb) and NPT-II gene (~ 800 bp) using gene specific primers (Fig. 2C & D respectively). The comparative growth kinetics analysis showed prominent inter-clonal variability with the ―CaUGT2-AB9‖ clone demonstrating the maximum growth potential in comparison to the other two clones [CaUGT2-AB1 and CaUGT2-AB5] on their maximum growth phase of 21st days. HPLC based chemical analysis for possible modification in the inherent metabolic profiles of these transgenic HR clones are underway in parallel to that of the non-transgenic HR clones of A. belladonna.
89 Biotransformation of exogenously supplied curcumin through time course study: The biotransformation potentials of all the three selected CaUGT2 gene-bearing transgenic HR clones (CaUGT2-AB9, CaUGT2-AB1 and CaUGT2-AB5) were evaluated with Curcumin as exogenous substrate, where formation of a distinct product was repeatedly observed. The isolation of the suspected biotransformed product followed by its NMR and HR Mass spectroscopy based chemical characterization confirmed it as Curcumin monoglucoside (Fig. 3A). Time course study revealed the maximum bio-conversion of curcumin to curcumin monoglucoside by the CaUGT2-AB9 clone (32.17 ± 1.01 % conversion) followed by the CaUGT2-AB1 (20.14 ± 0.89 % ) and CaUGT2-AB5 (13.69 ± 1.14 %) clones respectively after 72 hrs of feeding (Fig. 3B). The qRT-PCR analysis of the targeted CaUGT2 gene demonstrated highest expression in the CaUGT2-AB9 clone, which was 1.84 and 1.41 fold higher than that of the CaUGT2-AB5 and CaUGT2-AB1 HR clones respectively (Fig. 3C), substantiating the improved biotransformation efficiency of the former transgenic HR clone over that of the other two clones. These findings first time demonstrated the hairy root mediated efficient biotransformation of curcumin to its glucoside having improved physico-chemical properties and bioavailability potential.
(c) Broadening of the genetic base of A. belladonna germplasm through somaclonal breeding approach to assimilate wider adoptability.
In an attempt to address the third objective, protocol had been optimized for callus mediated generation of somaclones in A. belladonna to broaden the genetic base for assimilating wider adoptability. Regeneration of shoots from leaf-derived calli and their conversion to complete plantlets could be obtained through optimization of the combinations / concentrations of plant growth regulators and media compositions (Fig. 4A-D). Hardening and acclimatization of the independently raised callus-derived 26 individual somaclones of this high-altitude medicinal plant revealed 31% higher rate of survival than that of the control plants under glass-house conditions (Fig. 4E). Judicious field-trial based screening & evaluation of their survival and yield performances under the distinctly different climatic conditions of the northern Indian plains are presently underway.
2. Publications, if any during the period of report
(I) Pandey P, Singh S, Banerjee S (2019) Ocimum basilicum suspension culture as resource for bioactive triterpenoids: yield enrichment by elicitation and bioreactor cultivation. Plant Cell Tissue Organ Culture. 137: 65–75.
(II) Pandey SS, Singh S, Pandey H, Srivastava M, Ray T, Soni S, Pandey A, Shanker K, Babu VCS, Banerjee S, Gupta MM, Kalra A (2018) Endophytes of Withania somnifera modulate in planta content and the site of withanolide biosynthesis. Scientific Reports 8:5450.
90 3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report (i) Delivered lecture on - “Spotlight on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential and Employment Opportunities” during the ‗Science and Technology Sensitization Program for Women‘, jointly organized by The National Academy of Sciences (NASI) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh, on May 25-26, 2018 at AIIMS, Rishikesh. (ii) Delivered invited lecture on - “Discover Yourself through Your Dreams, Dexterity & Determination” during the 'Vigyan Jyoti', Program, jointly organized by The Department of Science and Technology (DST), New Delhi and the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT-G) on September 14, 2018 at IIT-G, Guwahati. (iii) Delivered invited lecture on - “The Majesty of Plant Secondary Metabolites: Unlocking the futuristic trends of Bioresource augmentation”, during the International Conference on „Next Generation Plant Production and Bioresource Utilization Technologies‟ on February 11-13, 2019 at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati. (iv) Delivered invited lecture on - ―Emerging Biotechnological Trends for Plant Secondary Metabolite production via Hairy Root Cultures‖ in the International Conference on Trends in Plant Sciences and Agrobiotechnology-2019 (ICTPA 2019) and 40th Meeting of Plant Tissue Culture Association-India (PTCA-I), February 14-16, 2019 at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati. (v) Delivered lecture on - “Follow your Dreams to Discover Yourself‖ during the Scientific Awareness Programme (―Igniting Young Minds‖), organized by NASI, Lucknow Chapter in collaboration with INSA and UPAS at ELPIS School, Biswan, Sitapur on January 21, 2019. (vi) Delivered lecture on: “Role of Women in Agriculture and Food Security”, during the International Women‘s Day Commemoration Program of the National Academy of Sciences, India on March 8-9, 2019 at NASI, Prayagraj. 4. Few Photographs
Fig.1: Relative biomass and metabolites‟ yields in shake flask and bioreactor cultivated A. belladonna HR clone (AB HR-8) after 30 days of growth.
91 Fig. 2A-D: Induction, multiplication & molecular characterization of CaUGT2 gene ( ~ 1.5 Kb) and NPTII gene ( ~ 800 bp) bearing transgenic hairy root clone of A. belladonna.
Fig. 3A-C: (A) Biotransformation of Curcumin to curcumin monoglucoside by three transgenic HR clones comprising heterologous glucosyltransferase gene; (B) Bioconversion rate and (C) qRT-PCR expression of CaUGT2 genes in all the three transgenic HR clones after 72 hours of substrate feeding.
92 Fig. 4: Optimization of protocol for callus mediated generation of independent somaclones (SC) in A. belladonna.
12. Prof. N.K. Lohiya University of Rajasthan, Jaipur
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
The project entitled ―Evaluation of anticancer effects of Carica papaya leaves/seeds extract (s) on prostate cancer cell lines, LNCaP and PC-3‖ was proposed to evaluate the anticancer effects of different formulations of the extracts from C. papaya on two different prostate cancer cell lines, LNCaP and PC-3, and to further delineate the molecular mechanism involved.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
Initially we performed the cell proliferation assay in prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP and PC-3) and observed that the C. papaya chloroform leaf extract decreases cell growth in both cell lines at different concentrations. We presently standardized the cell-cycle analysis by Propidium iodide (PI) staining using flowcytometry (FACS). PI staining of LNCaP cells indicated that the cells were arrested mostly in G1/S phase, demonstrating phenomenon of normal growing cells. However in the PC-3 cells it was observed that most of the cells were arrested in G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Cyclin-B1 expression was upregulated in LNCaP cells treated with C. papaya chloroform leaf extract at 50
93 ug/ml concentration for 72 hr indicating regulation of cell cycle by the plant product.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
1. Bhargava A, Pathak N, Seshadri S, Bunkar N, Jain SK, Kumar DM, Lohiya NK and Mishra PK (2018). Pre-Clinical Validation of Mito-Targeted Nano- Engineered Flavonoids Isolated From Selaginella bryopteris (Sanjeevani) As A Novel Cancer Prevention Strategy. Anti-cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry 18: 1860-1874.
2. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Safety evaluation through genotoxicity and apoptotic markers following RISUG® induced contraception and its reversal in male rabbits. Reproductive Toxicology 81: 84-92.
3. Ansari AS, Hussain M, Khan SR, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Toxicity and mutagenicity evaluation following RISUG® contraception reversal in rats. International Journal of Toxicology 20 (10): 1-9.
4. Ansari AS, Sharma A, Sadasukhi TC and Lohiya NK (2018). Assessment of sperm functional parameters and sperm genomic integrity status in different infertile conditions in male subjects. JOJ Urology & Nephrology 4(5): 555650.
5. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Fertility control modalities in animals: An overview. BAOJ Veterinary Science; 1: 004.
6. Lohiya NK (2018). Uterine Contractility: The Underlying Mechanism. American Journal of Perinatology; 35: 7-9.
7. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). An overview on the genetic determinants of infertility. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research; 10(4): 1-5.
8. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2019). Challenges in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). ISSRF Newsletter Issue 23, pp. 11-18
9. Khilwani B, Ansari AS and Lohiya NK (2019). Fertility preservation in young cancer patients – options and opportunities. ISSRF Newsletter Issue 23, pp. 68-74
10. Bunkar N, Shandilya R, Bhargava, A, Samarth RM, Tiwari R, Mishra DK, Srivastava RK, Sharma RS, Lohiya NK and Mishra PK (2019). Nano-engineered flavonoids for cancer protection. Frontiers In Bioscience, Landmark, 24, 1097- 1157.
11. Ansari AS, Hussain M, Khan SR, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Toxicity and mutagenicity evaluation following RISUG® contraception reversal in rats. International Journal of Toxicology 20 (10): 1-9.
12. Ansari AS, Sharma A, Sadasukhi TC and Lohiya NK (2018). Assessment of
94 sperm functional parameters and sperm genomic integrity status in different infertile conditions in male subjects. JOJ Urology & Nephrology 4(5): 555650.
13. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Fertility control modalities in animals: An overview. BAOJ Veterinary Science; 1: 004.
14. Lohiya NK (2018). Uterine Contractility: The Underlying Mechanism. American Journal of Perinatology; 35: 7-9.
15. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). An overview on the genetic determinants of infertility. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research; 10(4): 1-5.
16. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2019). Challenges in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). ISSRF Newsletter Issue 23, pp. 11-18
17. Khilwani B, Ansari AS and Lohiya NK (2019). Fertility preservation in young cancer patients – options and opportunities. ISSRF Newsletter Issue 23, pp. 68-74
18. Bunkar N, Shandilya R, Bhargava, A, Samarth RM, Tiwari R, Mishra DK, Srivastava RK, Sharma RS, Lohiya NK and Mishra PK (2019). Nano-engineered flavonoids for cancer protection. Frontiers In Bioscience, Landmark, 24, 1097- 1157.
19. Ansari AS, Hussain M, Khan SR, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Toxicity and mutagenicity evaluation following RISUG® contraception reversal in rats. International Journal of Toxicology 20 (10): 1-9.
20. Ansari AS, Sharma A, Sadasukhi TC and Lohiya NK (2018). Assessment of sperm functional parameters and sperm genomic integrity status in different infertile conditions in male subjects. JOJ Urology & Nephrology 4(5): 555650.
21. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). Fertility control modalities in animals: An overview. BAOJ Veterinary Science; 1: 004.
22. Lohiya NK (2018). Uterine Contractility: The Underlying Mechanism. American Journal of Perinatology; 35: 7-9.
23. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2018). An overview on the genetic determinants of infertility. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research; 10(4): 1-5.
24. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK (2019). Challenges in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). ISSRF Newsletter Issue 23, pp. 11-18
25. Khilwani B, Ansari AS and Lohiya NK (2019). Fertility preservation in young cancer patients – options and opportunities. ISSRF Newsletter Issue 23, pp. 68-74
95 26. Bunkar N, Shandilya R, Bhargava, A, Samarth RM, Tiwari R, Mishra DK, Srivastava RK, Sharma RS, Lohiya NK and Mishra PK (2019). Nano-engineered flavonoids for cancer protection. Frontiers In Bioscience, Landmark, 24, 1097- 1157.
4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report Collaborative research work being done with - Dr. Anil Suri, FNASc,FAMS Professor of Eminence & Convener Cancer Research Program, Cancer Microarray Genes and Proteins Laboratory Former Director, National Institute of Immunology Aruna Asaf Ali Marg New Delhi 110067
5. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report
1. Awarded with Pragya Environment Award during the National Seminar on Climate Change and Water Crisis in India, organized by the Pragya Academy Educational Society, Jaipur, on 5th June, 2018.
2. Awarded with Life Time Achievement Award during the National Conference on Biotechnology and Environment for Sustainable Development "Bio ESD 2019", organized by Dr. B. Lal Institute of Biotechnology, Jaipur, during 29-30 March, 2019.
6. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report
1. Delivered Presidential Address at National Conference on Awareness of Changes in Lifestyle Influencing Adolescent Health, organized by Dr. (Mrs.) M. Kasturi, Principal, Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, BITS Campus, Pilani, Rajasthan, under the auspices of the Indian Society for the Study of Reproduction and Fertility (ISSRF), September 15-16, 2018.
2. Delivered an invited talk as the Symposium speaker during the 18th International Congress of Endocrinology / 53rd Congress of the Society for Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes of South Africa (ICE/SEMDSA-2018), in Cape Town, South Africa, December 1-4, 2018.
3. Contributed towards organization of a Special Inaugural Lecture by Dr. Vishwa Mohan Katoch, Former Secretary, Department of Health Research and Director General, ICMR and NASI-ICMR Chair on Public Health Research, Rajasthan University of Health Sciences, Jaipur on 19 January, 2019 at Jaipur National University, Jaipur under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences, India (Rajasthan/Jaipur Chapter).
4. Delivered Presidential Address during Global Conference on Reproductive Health with Focus on Occupational, Environmental & Lifestyle Factors (ISSRF-2019), organized by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi at JNU Convention Centre, New Delhi during February 22 to 24, 2019.
5. Delivered Inaugural Keynote Address as the Chief Guest during the
96 International Congress on Endometriosis (ICE 2019) on 8 March, 2019, Organized by the Endometriosis Society India, at B. M. Birla Auditorium, Jaipur.
6. Delivered Inaugural Keynote Address as the Chief Guest during the National Seminar on Judicious Use of Laboratory Animals in Scientific Research & Teaching held at the Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, on 15 March, 2019.
7. Delivered a Public Lecture on „Lifestyle and Reproductive Health‟ on 18 March, 2019 at S. S. Jain Subhodh PG (Autonomous) College, Jaipur, organized under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences, India (Rajasthan/Jaipur Chapter).
8. Contributed towards the organization of Dialogue between Health Science Experts towards a Road-Map for Health Research, Prevention and Control of major diseases in Rajasthan, on 18 April, 2019 at Jaipur National University, Jaipur as an important activity of the National Academy of Sciences, India (Rajasthan/Jaipur Chapter).
13. Prof. Girjesh Govil TIFR, Mumbai
I started working as NASI Senior Scientist in April 2017, in the area of biological memebranes and intact cells. For some technical reasons I could not appoint an associate. Therefore the work was done in collaboration with other scientists. The effect of membrane active drugs on biological membranes and intact cells was studied. In addition, I have given several lectures and lecture coursesin Institutions in Mumbai and surrounding regions, in active collaborations with the West India Chapter of the Royal Society of Chemistry of which I am the Chairman.
Papers published
Physical Methods for Determination of Biomolecular Structures, Anurag Govil and Girjesh Govil, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India, Section A: Physical Sciences, 88, 163-169 (2018)
14. Prof. A.C. Kunwar IICT, Hyderabad
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
α/β-Peptides from 1:1 Repeats of 1,2-Dideoxy C-linked Carbo-β-amino Acids and L-Ala with 11/9-Helix, Helix-Turn and Helix-Turn-Helix Structures.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of the size of side chains on the robustness of the secondary structures in α/β-peptides. The peptides investigated were derived from C-linked carbo-β-amino acid (β-Caa), with a 1,2-dideoxy D-xylo
97 furanoside side chain [β-Caa(1,2-ddx)] and L-Ala. NMR, CD spectroscopy and Molecular Dynamics were extensively used to derive the structures. Small α/β-peptides with ‗α-β-α‘ sequence (α and β refer to L-Ala and (S)-β-Caa(1,2- ddx) respectively) at the C-termini display a very robust right-handed 11/9-helix, which is stabilized by 11- and 9-memberd CO···NH hydrogen bonds. However, peptides with ‗β-α-β‘ sequence at the C-termini reveal Helix-Turn (HT) structure, with a three-residue turn spawned at the C-terminus by an 11/9-helix at the N- terminus. The turn was stabilized by 7- and 13-membered CO···NH hydrogen bonds. The HT motif was further exploited by appending a small helical fragment at the C-terminus to obtain a helix-turn-helix (HTH) super-secondary structure with as few as eight residues. Interestingly, now the character of the turn changed compared to the one in the HT motif with 11- and 15-membered bifurcated H-bonds and a 9- membered H-bond, involving the O of the furan ring and NH. The two turns in the present study differ from turns in β-peptides and hybrid peptides with ‗β-β-β‘ and ‗β-α-γ‘ sequence at the C-termini respectively. It was observed that neither the smaller size of the side-chain (lack of steric interactions) nor the absence of acetonide group (oxygen atoms being probable source of electrostatic interactions) influence the robustness of the structures.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
1) α/β-Peptides from 1:1 Repeats of 1,2-Dideoxy C-linked Carbo-β-amino Acids and L-Ala with 11/9-Helix, Helix-Turn and Helix-Turn-Helix Structures. A. Ramesh, M. Kanakaraju, N. Chandramouli, P. P. Reddy, G. V. M. Sharma, A. V. S. Sarma and A. C. Kunwar, Tetrahedron, 74, 6095-6106 (2018).
15. Dr. Sanjeev Dhurandhar IUCAA, Pune
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
The Nobel Prize in physics 2017 was awarded for the discovery of gravitational waves. India was deeply involved in this effort and is continuing to do so by constructing an interferometric gravitational wave detector on its own soil – the Ligo- India project. In this fertile scenario, it is vital to devise and develop efficient data analysis strategies. We focus on important gravitational sources such as coalescing compact binaries - black holes and neutron stars. We develop data analysis techniques to extract such signals from detector data. We develop optimal vetoing procedures and efficient search methods, such as the hierarchical search strategy.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
(i) Gravitational wave signature of a mini creation event (MCE). S. V. Dhurandhar and J. V. Narlikar
In light of the recent discoveries of binary black hole events by the advanced detectors of gravitational waves, we propose a new astrophysical source: the mini creation event (MCE) as a possible source of gravitational waves. By matched filtering the signal we
98 find that, for a broad range of model parameters, the signal to noise ratio of the randomly oriented MCE is sufficiently high for a confident detection by advanced detectors.
(ii) Hierarchical search for detecting gravitational waves from compact coalescing binaries (CBC). B. Gadre, S. Mitra and S. V. Dhurandhar
Standard searches for compact coalescing binaries with spins pose a serious computational challenge. We present a hierarchical strategy to search for CBCs from a network of detectors and demonstrate the computational advantage of about 20 over the flat search in real data. This saving in the computational cost will allow us to free up computational resources and time.
(iii) Optimal chi square vetos for Sine-Gaussian glitches
R. Dhurkunde, S. Dhurandhar and S. Bose
The traditional chi square veto applied to the gravitational wave data is ad hoc and not gauranteed to be optimal. We construct an optimal chi square test for sine-Gaussian glitches which are ubiquitous in the detector data. We follow the procedure of unified chi squares (S. Dhurandhar et al) and use the singular value decomposition methods to construct an optimal chi square. This work is in progress.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report :
Gravitational wave signature of a mini creation event (MCE). S. V. Dhurandhar and J. V. Narlikar, Classical & Quantum Gravity, 35, 135003 (2018).
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report :
(i) Invited guest lecture entitled:The Discovery of Gravitational Waves on 3rd December 2018, at the National Laser Symposium - 27 held at Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore.
(ii) Talk entitled:
Gravitational Wave Signature of Mini Creation Event on 16th January 2019 at the Multi Messenger Astronomy in the Era of LIGO-India Conference held at Khandala.
(iii) Invited talk entitled ‗The Syzygy between Hilbert and Einstein: Gravitational Waves and Modules of Syzygies‟on 26th Feburary 2019 at the Workshop on Algebra and its Applications held at Mathematics Dept., Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune.
99 16. Prof. M. Vijayan Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Structural Biology of Mycobacterial Proteins.
The most important component of the work is concerned with structural and related studies on DNA recombination and repair including prevention of damage. The proteins investigated would include LexA, RecGwed and MutT proteins. Proteins involved in selected metabolic pathways would also be examined. Such proteins would include pantothenate kinase, -hydroxyisobutyrate dehydrogenase and argininosuccinate lyase. Another component of the work proposed to be carried out would involve mycobacterial lectins. Initiation of structure based design of inhibitors for selected TB proteins is also envisaged.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
All mycobacteria, except M. leprae, have a second Single Stranded DNA Binding protein (SSBb), in addition to the canonical one (SSBa). This paralogue from M. smegmatis (MsSSBb) has been cloned, expressed and purified. The structural study of the protein showed that the tertiary and quaternary structures of MsSSBb are similar to those of SSBa from mycobacteria. In particular, the clamp which additionally stabilizes the quaternary structure is present in MsSSBb also. Biochemical studies showed that the expression levels of the ssbB gene increase during UV and hypoxic stresses, while the levels of ssbA expression decline. Thus it would appear that SSBb is hypoxia specific.
LexA is a protein that is involved in the SOS response. The protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis and its mutants have been biochemically characterized and the structures of their catalytic segments have been determined. A complex of M. tuberculosis LexA and the cognate SOS could be modeled. The structural studies bring to light the characteristic features of mycobacterial LexA and its interaction with DNA.
A bioinformatics analysis of mycobacteral genomes led to the identification of a protein (RecGwed) with a C-terminal ―wedge‖ domain, similar to the wedge domain of RecG. Solution studies indicated the possible involvement of RecGwed in transactions during recombination events that proceed through branched DNA intermediates. The crystal structures of M. smegmatis MutT2, a sanitization enzyme which hydrolyses non-canonical nucleotides and its complexes with cytosine derivatives have been determined. A conserved set of enzyme ligand interactions along with concerted movements of important water molecules provide insights into the mechanism of action.
Efforts on a metabolic enzyme also formed part of the work during the period under consideration. Biochemical and crystallographic studies on Mycobacterium tuberculosis 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid dehydrogenase (MtHIBADH), a member of
100 the 3-hydroxyacid dehydrogenase superfamily, have been carried out. They lead to the proposal of a plausible mechanism of the action of the enzyme.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
Anu V. Chandran, S. Jayanthi and M. Vijayan (2018). Biomol. Struc. Dyn. 36, 98-111. A. Singh, M. Vijayan and U. Varshney (2018). Tuberculosis 108 16–25. A. Singh, M. Vijayan, G. Nagaraju (2018). IUBMB Life 70, 786-794. R. Srikalaivani, Amrita Singh, M. Vijayan and A. Surolia (2018). Biochemical Journal 475, 2457–2471. A. Singh, S.M. Arif, P.B. Sang, U. Varshney and M Vijayan (2018) J. Struct. Biol. 204, 449-456. T. Chandran, N. Sivaji, A. Surolia and M. Vijayan (2018). Glycobiology 28, 968-977.
Anu V. Chandran, R. Srikalaivani, A. Paul and M. Vijayan (2019). Acta Cryst. D75, 41-55.
4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report This is a collaborative project. The collaborators are U. Varshney, G. Nagaraju and A. Surolia
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report I have been invited for several important lectures and plenary talks. However I was unable to accept the invitations on account of my immobility.
6. One or two Photographs related to the project, if any
Structure of MsSSB
Dimer of the C-terminal segment of MtLexA
101 17. Dr. Krishna Pal Singh Botanical Survey of India, Allahabad
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Revision and reassessment of Lichenized genus Porina Ach. (Porinaceae) from India and preparation of an identification manual of macrolichens of biodiversity hotspot: Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Significant Research/Scientific findings during the period of the report During the period under report, the preparation of an identification manual of Macrolichen biota of Arunachal Pradesh was continued and expected to be completed by the end of 2019. In addition, the new collections of genus Porina Ach and various species of macrolichens from Arunachal Pradesh were made. Also proposed 5 new combinations and synonymized 7 species in the family graphidaceae. 275 specimens of medicinally important fruticose genus Usnea from Arunachal Pradesh were investigated morphologically, anatomically, chemically and identified into 20 species. A key of 29 species of Usnea sensu lato including earlier reports from Arunachal Pradesh was prepared. Usnea angulata Ach., Usnea perplexans Stirt. were recorded as new reports for the state. A field tour to collect the species of Porina and macrolichens in the vicinities of Tipi, Sessa, Nafra road, Zigaon, Shergaon, Baishakhi, Bomdila, Sela pass, Jang, Tawang botanic garden, Tawang – P.T. Sho etc. starting from 100 - 4217 m altitude. in West Kameng and Tawang districts in the state of Arunachal Pradesh was under taken from 06.03.2019 to 19.03.2019. About 210 field numbers of lichens were collected, processed and incorporated in the BSA herbarium as new collections. It is observed that there is a huge deterioration of lichen habitats when compared with earlier surveys. Tipi and Sessa in tropical and subtropical zones are maximum affected for lichen growth due to the cutting of trees, construction of hotels, commercial shops and new residences. Foliicolous lichens an indicator of good health of forest are more or less vanished from these places. The distribution of lichens is largely influenced by the increase in altitude and prevalent climatic conditions. Tropical lichens (up to 900 m) are represented by the members of Graphidaceae, Pyrenulaceae, Caliciaceae, Porinaceae, Arthoniaceae, Lecanoraceae etc, subtropical lichens (900-1800 m) by the families, Parmeliaceae, Collemataceae, Physciaceae, Peltigeraceae etc., and temperate lichens (1800-2800 m) by the presence of genera Cetraria, Cetrelia Lepra, Flavoparmelia, Usnea, Cladonia, Ramalina, Stereocaulon etc. Hypogymia arunachalensis, Menegazzia terebrata, Cetrelia spp. Rhizocarpon geographicum, Umbilicaria indica, etc. are common in alpine zone (above 3000 m). Achievements (2018-19) a) New species described : 01 species b) New records for India : 03 species c) New combinations made : 05 species d) New synonyms made : 07 species e) New collections added : 210 F.N. in the BSA herbarium f) Papers published/accepted : 05 nos
102 3. Publications, if any during the period of the report 1. Singh P & K.P. Singh.2018. Leucodecton minisporum Lücking (graphidaceae), a new record to the Indian lichen biota. Phytotaxonomy 17: 24-26. 2. Singh P & K.P. Singh 2018. Buelliella indica (Dothideomycetes), a new lichenicolous species from India. Acta Bot. Hungarica. (Accepted). 3. Singh P & K.P. Singh 2018. A note on the re collection of Haematomma accolens (Stirt.) Hillm. (lichenized Ascomycota) after a gap of 136 years from the tropical forests of Indo-Burma biodiversity hot spot, North-East India with a key to the Indian species. Indian J. Forest. 41 (3): 315-318. 4. Singh P.K., P. Bujarbarua, K.P. Singh & P.K. Tandon 2019. Report on the bioaccumulation of heavy metals by foliose lichen (Pyxine cocoes) from air polluted area near Nagaon paper mill in Marigaon, Assam, North-East India. JNBR, 8 (1) : 15-21. 5. Singh P & K.P. Singh. Melaspilea lekae Brackel & Kalla a new record of lichenicolous fungus from India with a key to the Indian species. Indian. J. Forest. 42 (1): 55-57. 4. Invited talk(s) lecture(s) delivered, if any during the period of report i. Presented a paper entitled “Current status of the genus Phaeographis (Lichenized ascomycota) in India” by P.Singh and K.P.Singh during the 41st All India Botanical Conference organized by the Indian Botanical Society at Jiwaji University, Gwalior from 25th – 27th October, 2018. (Abstract on page 59.) ii. Participated ( by R.A.) in Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) sponsored by Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEF & CC), New Delhi and organized by BSI, Prayagraj and delivered 40 lectures to trainees for certificate course on Para taxonomy including People biodiversity register (PBR) held from 19.11.2018 to 18.3.2019 at BSI, Prayagraj. iii. Participated (by R.A.) in an Environmental awareness programme organized by the MoEF&CC, New Delhi and explained to the visitors of Kumbh Magh Mela about the exhibits arranged in a stall set up by the BSI, Prayagraj from 4.2.2019 to 10.2.2019. 5. Few photographs
A Rhododendron twig showing the luxuriant growth of Macrolichen biota (Usnea, Hypotrachina and Pertusaria spp.) at high altitude (3670 m) in Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh .
103 18. Prof. Gyan Chand Mishra National Centre for Cell Sciences, Pune
1. Title: Studies on regulation of development of T-regulatory and T-helper 17 cells
Theme of research: T-regulatory (Tregs) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells are the subsets of CD4+ T-cells with opposing functions. Tregs are immunosuppressive, whereas Th17 cells are pro-inflammatory in nature. In order to maintain immunological homeostasis, a perfect balance is required between anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cells. However, in autoimmunity this equilibrium shifts toward proinflammatory cells i.e. Th17 cells. Restoring Tregs/Th17 cells balance using cytokine therapy or any pharmacologically active compound might be useful in the treatment of autoimmune disorders. Previous studies from our lab showed that Interleukin-3 (IL-3) enhanced the differentiation of mice regulatory T cells in the presence of TGF-β1 and IL-2. Moreover, IL-3 treatment also reduced the severity of collagen induced arthritis by down regulating the expression on pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-17A, TNF- a, and IL-1). To corroborate this finding we aim to investigate its role in human Tregs differentiation. Furthermore, we are also examining the role of IL-3 on Th17 cells development in mice.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
In our previous reports, we showed that IL-3 is an essential component of immunological tolerance, since it promotes regulatory T cells and inhibit the development of pathogenic Th17 cells. In order to investigate mechanism of IL-3 action on human Tregs, we examined the phosphorylation of STAT-5 which is known to regulate the FoxP3 expression, a key transcription factor involved in Tregs development. We isolated human CD4+ T cells, these cells were stimulated with IL- 3 for 15, 30 and 45 minutes respectively. IL-2 is well known activator of STAT-5 in resting T-cells, was used as a positive control. After treatments, cells were fixed and permeabilised followed by intracellular staining with fluorescent conjugated anti- pSTAT-5 antibody and median fluorescence intensity (MFI) of pSTAT-5 calculated and normalised to MFI of pSTAT-5 in untreated cells. In unactivated CD4+T, there was no STAT-5 phosphorylation in IL-3 treated groups, while IL-2 treatment phosphorylated STAT-5 at all the time points (Fig: 7A). Furthermore, CD4+ T cells were stimulated for 4 days with anti-CD3/CD28, activation beads were removed and cells were rested for 4hrs in serum free X-VIVO-15 medium and then treated with IL-3 for 15 minutes, As shown in (Fig:7B), IL-3 treatment significantly enhanced MFI of pSTAT-5 in activated Th cells. So here we demonstrate that IL-3 activate STAT-5 in T cell receptor stimulated human CD4+ T cells, whereas unstimulated Th cells do not responds to IL-3. This finding further validates our previous studies on human CD4+ T-cells that activated CD4+ T cells express IL-3 receptor while freshly isolated human Th cells lack IL-3 receptor expression. In conclusion, IL-3 regulates the expression of FoxP3 by activating JAK-2- STAT-5 pathway.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
104 1. Rani L, Kumar A, Pote ST, Mishra GC*, Wani MR. Interleukin-3 alleviates the disease activity in collagen induced arthritis by reducing T-helper 17 cells (Manuscript under submission). 2. Garimella MG, Kour S, Piprode V, Mittal M, Kumar A, Rani L, Pote ST, Mishra GC, Chattopadhyay N, Wani MR. Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Prevent Systemic Bone Loss in Collagen-Induced Arthritis. J Immunol. 2015 Dec 1; 195(11):5136-48. 3. Pandey SP, Doyen N, Mishra GC, Saha B, Chandel HS (2015). TLR9-deficiency reduces TLR1, TLR2 and TLR3 expressions in Leishmania major-infected macrophages. Exp Parasitol.154:82-6.
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report 1. Inspire Science Camp held between 12-16, Oct.-2017 at Dayanand Science College, Latur, Mahashtra. (Sponsored by DST). Title of the talk ―Science in life, life in science‖ 2. Inspire internship camp, 2018, at H.R. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur, Maharashtra. (Sponsored by DST). Title of the talk ―Science in life, life in science‖ 3. Participated in panel discussion on ―Basic Research - its Role in National Development‖ organized by NASI in its 87th annual session and symposium held between 8-10 December-2017 at S.P. Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune- Maharashtra.
5. Few Photographs
105 Figure: IL-3 activates STAT-5 in T cell receptor stimulated CD4+ T cells: A) Human CD4+ T cells were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and treated with IL-3, IL-2 for 15,30 and 45 minutes, fixed/permeabilised and stained with p-STAT-5 antibody for 45 minutes. After staining cells were washed and data were analyzed on BD canto-II flow cytometer B) CD4+ T-cells were isolated from PBMCs and stimulated with anti CD3/CD28 coated T-cell activation beads for 4 days, activation beads were removed and cells were kept in serum free media X-VIVO-15 media for the next 4hrs and then treated with IL-3 for 15 minutes. Cells were fixed/permeabilised and stained with p-STAT-5 antibody for 45 minutes. After staining, cells were washed and data were analyzed on BD canto-II flow cytometer.
19. Prof. S.V. Bhatt Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
1. Title/Theme of the work being done
Magnetization, electron paramagnetic resonance and related studies of physics of manganites.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
We have found that the temperature dependence of the Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) linewidth observed in Bi0.5Sr0.5Mn0.9Cr0.1O3 (BSMCO), as well as in certain other 3-dimensional manganites undergoing antiferromagnetic transition is satisfactorily, though unexpectedly, described by the Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless (BKT) model. We understand this result in terms of an effective 2-dimensional XY easy plane anisotropy induced by the magnetic field applied in the EPR experiment. This conclusion is supported by the field dependence of the BKT correlations observed in the quasi two-dimensional antiferromagnetic compound BaNi2V2O8. An important implication of this result is that a magnetic field can effectively convert a system of three dimensional (even isotropic) correlations to one with two dimensional correlations.
106 We have studied the effects of 10% Cr substitution in Mn sites of Bi0.5Sr0.5MnO3 on the antiferromagnetic (AFM) (TN ~ 110 K) and charge ordering (CO) (TCO ~ 525 K) transitions using structural, magnetic and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques. Field cooled (FC) and zero field cooled (ZFC) magnetization measurements done from 400 K down to 4 K show that the compound is in the paramagnetic (PM) phase till 50 K where it undergoes a transition to a short-range ferromagnetic phase (FM). EPR measurements performed in the temperature range 300 K till 80 K conform with the magnetization measurements as symmetric signals are observed owing to the PM phase. Below 80 K, signals become asymmetric. EPR Intensity I (T) vs. T plot shows a peak at ~ 110 K confirming the presence of AFM. We observe that below 50 K, the sample is in the mixed phase with clusters of FM coexisting within an antiferrmagnetic matrix.
Zinc substitution effects on the magnetic ordering of nanosized Nd0.65Ca0.35MnO3 particles prepared by sol-gel method have been investigated by highly sensitive electron magnetic resonance (EMR) technique complimented by magnetization measurements. Earlier we have shown that bulk Nd0.65Ca0.35MnO3 exhibits a charge ordering transition at 240 K and an antiferromagnetic transition at 150 K followed by a transition to a ferromagnetic (FM) phase below 50K [1] whereas the nano Nd0.65Ca0.35MnO3 exhibits only a single transition from paramagnetic to ferromagnetic phase at 120 K which supports the general phenomenon of vanishing phase complexities in nano materials. Continuing on this work, we have studied the effect of 10% and 30% zinc doping on the nano sized Nd0.65Ca0.35MnO3. Magnetization and EMR studies confirm the existence of ferromagnetism in all the samples. The FM weakens with higher doping of zinc. Though magnetization measurements do not show the charge order fluctuations and short range AFM order in the zinc doped samples, EMR measurements evidence it. EMR line width increases with zinc doping over a wide range of temperature due to the destruction of motional narrowing.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report
1. Grain Size Effect on the Magnetic Properties of Sm 0.08 Ca 0.92 MnO3 Manganite Goveas, Lora Rita; Anuradha, K. N.; Bhat, S. V. Mater. Today- Proceedings 5, 10747-1 0754 (2018)
2. Occurrence of Mixed Phase in Bi0.5Sr0.5Mn0.9Cr0.1O3 bulk sample: Electro Paramagnetic Resonance and Magnetization Studies K. S. Bhagyashree, L. R. Goveas, and S. V. Bhat, Appl. Magn. Res. (2019) In the press.
3. Unexpected Effectiveness of the Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless Description of EPR Linewidth Behaviour in Certain 3D Manganites A.Ashoka, K. S. Bhagyashree, S.V. Bhatar Xiv:1809.07635 (2018) under review.
4. Investigation on Magnetization and Electron Magnetic Resonance properties of Nd0.65Ca0.35 Mn 1-xZnxO3(x=0, 0.1, 0.3) Nanomanganite Daly Paul, K. N. Anuradha, and S.V. Bhat (2019) under review.
107 In addition, the following posters were presented during ―The third joint conference of the Asia-Pacific EPR/ESR Society and The International EPR (ESR) Society (IES)‖ held at the University of Queensland‘s St. Lucia campus, Brisbane during 23 – 27 September 2018:
1. K. N. Anuradha and S.V.Bhat Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Studies of Charge ordered R0.5Ca0.5MnO3(R = Pr, Bi) Manganites
2. A. Ashoka, K. S. Bhagyashree and S.V. Bhat Unexpected Effectiveness of Berezinskii-KosterlitzThouless Description in Understanding the EPR Linewidth Behaviour of Doped Manganites
3. Daly Paul, Anuradha K.N. and S.V. Bhat Investigation on Magnetization and Electron Magnetic Resonance properties of Nd0.65Ca0.35 Mn 1-xZnxO3(x=0, 0.1, 0.3) Nanomanganite
4. Lora Goveas, Anuradha KN and S. V. Bhat EPR Investigation of Charge Order Destabilization in Electron Doped Sm0.35Ca0.65MnO3 Nanomanganite
5. Lora Rita Goveas, Bhagyashree K S and S. V. BhatOccurrence of Mixed Phase in Bi0.5Sr0.5Mn0.9Cr0.1O3bulk sample: Electron Paramagnetic Resonance and Magnetization Studies 4. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report
Delivered a ―Keynote Lecture‖ titled “Many 'Avatars' of EPR linewidth in Doped Rare-earth Manganites: from Bottle-necked Relaxation to Berezinskii- Kosterlitz-Thouless Scenario” on 24 September 2018 at the third joint conference of the Asia-Pacific EPR/ESR Society and The International EPR (ESR) Society (IES) held at the University of Queensland‘s St. Lucia campus, Brisbane, Australia, during 23 – 27 September 2018.
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report 1. Delivered an invited lecture titled ―Water, the most anomalous liquid on earth‖ at Reva University, Bangalore on 17 December 2018, during the INSPIRE programme. 2. Delivered a ‗Resource Person Lecture‘ titled ―Magnetism: multitude of fascinating phenomena & Electron Paramagnetic Resonance: A Powerful Local Probe‖ at Reva University Bangalore on 24 January 2019 in the Academies‘ sponsored meeting. 3. Delivered ‗The Science Day‘ lecture titled ―Science, Scientific Method and Scientific Temper‖ at the Soundarya Institute of Management and Science, Bangalore on 28 February 2019.
6. Any other information: The reports on the PhD thesis of Ms Daly Paul, a joint student of Prof. S. V. Bhat and Prof. K.N. Anuradha have arrived and all the examiners have unanimously recommended the acceptance of the thesis. The thesis defense viva, which could
108 not be held so far because the Indian Examiner was deputed for election duty, will soon be arranged.
7. Few Photographs
Delivering Keynote address in the International EPR Conference at Brisbane, Australia
Delivering the Science Day Lecture; right: a section of the audience.
20. Dr. Hemanta K. Majumder Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, kolkata
Brief Summary of the Scientific Achievements
Title of the proposed work: DNA topoisomerases targeted therapeutics.
109 During the reporting period the project is focussed on the study of the mechanism of inhibition of type II DNA topoisomerases of Leishmania donovani by a synthetically derived compound Isobenzofuranone derivative JVPH3, which disrupts mitochondrial architecture of the parasites. Kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) bearing unusual mitochondrion of trypanosomatid parasites offers a new paradigm in chemotherapy. Topoisomerase II of Leishmania donovani ( LDTopII), a key enzyme associated with kDNA replication, is emerging as a potential drug target. However, mode of action of LdTopII targeted compounds in the parasites at sub cellular level remains largely unknown. Previously we have reported that JVPH3 targets LdTopII and induces apoptosis like cell death in L. donovani. Here we elucidate the phenotypic changes and the events occurring at the subcellular level caused by L. donovani. In addition we have evaluated the cytotoxicity and untraatructural alterations caused by JVPH3 in two Brazilian parasites L. amazonensis and T.cruzi. Despite killing these parasites, JVPH3 caused significant phenotypic changes in L. donovani and in L. amazonensis. More than 90% population of the parasites showed altered morphology. Mitochondrion was a major target organelle subsequently causing kinetoplast network disorganization in Leishmania. Altered mitonchondrial architecture was evident in 70- 80% Leishmania population being investigated. Quantification of mitochondrial function using JC-1 fluorophore to measure a possible mitochondrial membrane depolarization further confirmed the mitochondrion as an essential target of the JVPH3 corroborating with the phenotype observed by electron microscopy. However, the impact of JVPH3 was lesser on T. cruzi than Leishmania. The molecule caused mitochondrial alteration in 40% population of the epimastigotes being investigated. To our knowledge, this is the first report to evaluate the proliferation pattern and ultrastructural alterations caused in Brazilian kinetoplastid pathogens by a synthetic LdTopII inhibitor previously established to have promising in vivo activity against Indian strain of L. donovani. A number of synthetic and natural plant derived compounds have been identified and characterized as topoisomerase IB and topoisomerase II inhibitors. The compound Cadambine, an indole alkaloid isolated from plant Anthocephalus cadamba is a dual inhibitor of both Leishmania topoisomerase IB and topoII. The mechanism of action has been studied in detail.
Towards understanding the repair processes of the damages induced by DNA topoisomerases targeted antileishmanials we have found that among many factors, the Meiotic Recombination Protein 11 (Mre11) gets overexpressed in the parasite when it was subjected to camptothecin treatment. However reports suggesting direst evidence of Mre11 to resolve TopoI cleavage complex (Topo1 cc) in vivo still remain unclear. For that purpose we have cloned and sequenced Mre11 gene (LdMRE11) from L. donovani. Mre11 knock out parasites were also generated. Experiments are underway to understand the repair pathway in detail. So far our study provides the first mechanistic insight in to the functioning of Mre11 in Leishmania in response to topoisomerase 1B poisoning and probably Mre11 has a role in drug resistance.
All organisms, including unicellular pathogens, compulsorily possess DNA topoisomerases for successful nucleic acid metabolism. But particular subtypes of topoisomerases exist, in all prokaryotes and in some unicellular eukaryotes, that are absent in higher eukaryotes. Moreover, topoisomerases from pathogenic members of a
110 niche possess some unique molecular architecture and functionalities completely distinct from their nonpathogenic colleagues. In a review we have highlighted the unique attributes associated with the structures and functions of topoisomerases from the unicellular pathogens, with special reference to bacteria and protozoan parasites. It will also summaries the progress made in the domain pertaining to the druggability of these topoisomerases, upon which a future platform for therapeutic development can be successfully constructed.
Publications:
A. Peer reviewed journals
1. Somenath Roy Chowdhury, Joseane Lima Prado Godinho, Jayaraman Vinayagam, Aline Arauzo Zuma, Sara Teixeira De Macedo Silva, Parasuraman Jaisankar, Juliany Cola Fernandes Rodrigues, Wanderley De Souza and Hemanta K. Majumder. Isobenzo furanone derivative JVPH3, an inhibitor of L. donovani topoisomerase II, disrupts mitochondrial architecture in trypanosomatid parasites. Scientific Reports 8(1): 11940 (2018) [I.F. 4.122]
● Somenath Roy Chowdhury and Hemanta K. Majumder. DNA Topoisomerases in unicellular pathogens: Structure, Function and Druggability. Trends in Biochemical Sciences [Epub ahead of print] (2019) doi: 10.1016/j.tibs.2018.12.001. (I.F. 15.678)
B. Conference proceedings
1. Somenath Roy Chowdhury and Hemanta K. Majumder. Targeting topoisomerases for antileishmanial chemotherapeutics and deciphering the role of Mre11 in topoisomerase induced DNA damage repair in Leishmania donovani. FASEB Journal 32 (1_Supplement) [Proceedings of Experimental Biology, San Diego, Califormia] April 21 - 25 (2018)
2. Somenath Roy Chowdhury and Hemanta K. Majumder. An insight into ultrastructural alterations and DNA damage response machineries of Leishmania donovani induced by novel inhibitors targeted to parasite topoisomerases. Proceedings of International Symposium On Malaria Biology & 29th National Congress of Parasitology on Basic and Applied Aspects, November 1-3, 2018, University of Hyderabad [BEST ORAL PRESENTATION AWARD to Somenath Roy Chowdhury]
3. Somenath Roy Chowdhury and Hemanta K. Majumder. Topoisomerase 1B- associated cleavage complex (TOP1Bcc) induced ultrastructural alterations and TOP1Bcc-repair mechanism in Leishmania donovani: A Therapeutic perspective. Proceedings of 7th International Symposium on Current Trends in Drug Discovery Research, February 20-23, 2019, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow [BEST ORAL PRESENTATION AWARD to Somenath Roy Chowdhury]
Lectures delivered
1. Delivered Lecture in the World Water Day- 2018 Title: Nature for Water
111 Date: March 22, 2018,Venue: Bengal National Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BNCCI)
2. Delivered two Lectures at the Teaching-Learning Center (TLC) at BITS Pilani Goa campus to the Post Graduate and Ph.D students. Title: (i) Maintenance of Topology of DNA inside Leishmania (ii) Mysteries in the DNA topoisomerases of kinetoplastid parasites Date: March 27-28, 2018 Venue: BITS Pilani, Goa
3. Delivered Lecture in the World DNA Day-2018 Title: Maintenance of topology of DNA inside Cells Date: April 25, 2018 Venue: Kalyani University, West Bengal
4. Delivered a Lecture on the International Seminar on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Title: Drug Development Research Against Leishmaniasis Date: May 1, 2018 Venue: CSIR- Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Jadavpur, Kolkata- 700 032
5. Delivered a Lecture at VIGYANER BARNALI Title: Epoch Making Discovery in Biological Sciences Date: September 7, 2018 Venue: Karanjali Balika Bidyalaya
6. Delivered a Lecture at the DST- INTERNSHIP Programme Title: Evolution of Biological Chemistry & Biotechnology Date: October 4, 2018 Venue: Columbia College of Pharmacy, Raipur, Chhattisgarh
7. Delivered an Inaugural Lecture in the International Symposium on Malaria Biology & 29th National Congress of Parasitology on Basic and Applied Aspects. Title: DNA topoisomerases: The Wonder enzymes in Leishmania Date: November 1-3, 2018 Venue: University of Hyderabad
8. Delivered plenary lecture at 106th Indian Science Congress Title: Leishmania, an old enemy: A ―mania‖ of three decades Date: January 4, 2019 Venue: Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar (Punjab)
9. Delivered two lectures in Refreshers‟ Course Title: The „Wonder enzyme‟ DNA topoisomerase: Complexity in Leishmania Date: January 11, 2019 Venue: Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta
112 PhD/Pre-PhD thesis examiner
1. Acted as a PhD thesis examiner and conducted the viva-voce of Mr. Deepak K., Supervisor: Prof. Sudip K. Ghosh, Dept. of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (West Bengal) 2. Acted as a PhD thesis examiner and conducted the viva-voce of Mr. Sudipta Bar, Supervisor: Prof. Rupak Datta, Dept. of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Eduation & Research, Mohanpur, Kalyani (West Bengal) 3. Acted as a PhD thesis examiner and conducted the viva-voce of Ms. Chandreyee Datta, Supervisor: Prof. Valakunja Nagaraja, Dept. of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 4. Acted as external expert for the PhD pre-submission viva-voce of Mr. Sarbadeb Kundu, Supervisor: Prof. Sankar Ghosh, Assam University, Silchar
Journal Referee
1. Acted as Editorial Board Member for the journal „Scientific Reports‟, published by Nature Publishing Group. 2. Acted as Reviewer for the journals (i) Acta Tropica and (ii) Archives in Biochemistry and Biophysics Meetings
1. Attended NASI Local Chapters Meeting at NIPGR, New Delhi on April 27 & 28, 2018 2. Attended INSA Local Chapters Meetings at INSA, New Delhi on June 14, 2018
3. Attended the Faculty Selection Committee Meeting at Sister Nivedita University, Kolkata on July 3, 2018 4. Attended the Fellowship Scrutiny Committee Meeting of The National Academy of Sciences (NASI), Allahabad, July 18 - 21, 2018 5. Attended the Faculty Selection Committee Meeting at Rajendra Memorial Research Institute, Patna on August 7, 2018 6. Attended the UGC-SAP Advisory Committee Meeting at Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi on October 26, 2018
Session Chair
1. Chaired a session entitled “Targeting protozoan parasites” at International Symposium on Malaria Biology & 29th National Congress of Parasitology on Basic and Applied Aspects, November 1-3, 2018, University of Hyderabad, India 2. Chaired a session at Guha Research Conference 2018, November 30 – December 4, 2018, Visva Bharati University, Shantiniketan.
Awards & Accolades
1. Sir C. V. Raman Birth Centenary Award (2019) by Indian Science Congress Association at 106th Indian Science Congress, Lovely Professional University,
113 Jalandhar, January 3 – 7 , 2019. 2. Selected as President, The National Academy of Sciences (NASI), Local Chapter- Kolkata 3. Selected as Council Member of Indian National Science Academy, New Delhi (January 2019 – December 2021) 4. Selected as Convener, Indian National Science Academy (INSA), Local Chapter- Kolkata (January 2018 – December 2020) 5. Adjunct Professor, Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology & Bioinformatics, University of Calcutta
21. Prof. C. Manoharachary Department of Botany, Osmania University, Hyderabad
1. Title/Theme of the work being done: Title: Biodiversity, Conservation and Biotechnology of Fungi. Subtitle: Handedness in Fungi.
The wrld estimate of fungi being 1.5 to 5.1 million of fungi. Out of which only one lakh fungi have been identified upto species level. Inida has recorded 29000 fungi and 1/3 of global fungal diversity may exist in India. Around 7% of fungi are available in the form of cultures. However 93% of fungi world over remain non-culturable. Fungi are known to be of importance in agriculture, industry, pharmaceuticals, medicine, food industry, bioremediation, waste management and others. However no attempt has been made in understanding the biology of handedness in fungi which is attempted by the PI for the first time in the world.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report : Normally handedness of fungi is not uncommon among angiosperms and animals. A critical survey indicates that left and right handedness in fungi has not been worked but sofar neither in India nor in other countries. For the first time while studying several fungi in the last 35 years I have come across left-handedness and right-handedness in hyphal branching, streaming of cytoplasm, branching of sporangiophores and condiophores, flagellation and conidia.
I have worked on handedness of Fungi for a period of one year 2018-2019. Fungi showed variation in branching, cytoplasmic movements, rotation in sporangiophores, twisting of conidiophores, conidial formation, position of zoosporangia, sporangia and conidia. In some fungi monopodial, zig-zag production of cortidiophores and other variations have been observed indicating either right handedness or left handedness or sympodial nature. This has been observed in the production of reproductive units. The sympodial bending either towards left side or right side has been observed in members Mucorales. Characteristic movement of cytoplasm was observed in myxomycetes. Uniseriate ascospores, slipper shaped ascospores and other types of ascospores have also been observed. Variation branching of appendages on reproductive units have been observed. Spiral, dichotomously branched appendages, setae etc., have also been observed.. Some fungi produce helicoid conidia whose spiraling is either clock wise or
114 anti clock wise. Around 120 fungi have been observed for their right handed and left handedness, 3. Publications, if any during the period of report: a. Feeding elicitors and precursors enhance colchicines accumulation in morphogenic cultures of Goriosa superba 2019 plant cell tissue and organ culture- Springer. b. Role of Mycorrhiza in improving product quality 2018. Mycorrhiza news 30 (2) page 11-12. c. Mycorrhiza is a boon for plant growth. Mycorrhiza news, 30 (2) page 12-13. d. Arbuscular mycorrhiza! fungi with reference to different cultivars of Till 2018. Indian Phytopathology 71 (2), 191-196. e. Hahdedhess in fungi, 2019 CRC press (In press). f. Plant disease management through microbial agents, India phytopath 2019 (In press) 4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report: Collaboration has been established with TERI, New Delhi. 5. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report: Life time achievement award for 2019 by the Indian Pathological Society, New Delhi in recognition of outstanding research work in Biodiversity, Taxonomy, conservation and biotechnology of fungi and fungal pathogens. 6. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report: a. Invited lecture at the International symposium of fungal Biology, Nov 19-21, 2018. Invited Lecture delivered. b. Invited speaker at Regional conference on Role of Soil and plant health towards achieving sustainable developments Goals in Asia-Pacific, 21- 23 Nov, 2018, Bangkok. 7. Few Photographs
115 Morchella esculenta – collected from Himachal Pradesh
22. Prof. Jagannatha Gopalakrishnan NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubliee Fellowship
A. Functional Materials Based on Metal Oxides
A 1. Exploring the Corundum Structure as a Host for Colored Compound- Synthesis, Structure, and Optical Studies of (MM’)3TeO6(M=Mg, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn;M’=Mg,Mn, Co, Ni, Cu).
We investigated the syntheses, crystal structures, and optical absorption studies of the transition-metal-substituted corundum-related oxides (MM’)3TeO6(M=Mg, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn;M’=Mg,Mn, Co, Ni, Cu).The oxides are readily synthesized by the solid-state reactions of stoichiometric mixtures of the constituent binaries at 750-860 ◦C. The Rietveld refinements of the crystal structures from the powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) data show that the Mg/Mn/Ni/Co/ZnO6 chromophores. We have also identified the role that metal-to- metal charge transfer (MMCT) from the partially filled transition-metal 3d orbitals to the empty Mo 4d orbitals play in the color changes. We believe that the study of these transition-metal substituted corundum oxides suggests directions for the development of colored inorganic materials featuring distorted octahedral around the 3d transition-metal ions, as they may be useful as pigments.
A paper based on this work has been published in Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 2018, 2277-2284.
2. Brilliant blue colour has been realised in cobalt substituted silicates, Zn2SiO4 and Ba2ZnSi2O7.
116 3. Tuning Magnetic Coercivity with External Pressure in Iron- Rhenium Based Ferrimagnetic Double Perovskites.
In a long-standing collaboration with Professor E. Granado, Institute of Physics, University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, we studied the effect of physical pressure on the electronic and magnetic properties of ferromagnetic double perovskites A2FeReO6 (A=Ca,Ba) using Re L2,3 edge x-ray absorption spectroscopy and powder diffraction measurements. Volume compression is shown to dramatically increase the magnetic coercivity (Hc) in polycrystalline samples of both compound with ΔHc/ΔV 150–200 Oe/Å3. A nearly eight-fold increase in Hc, from 0.2 to 1.55 T, is obtained in Ba2FeReO6 at P=29 GPa. While no sign of structural phase transtions are seen in either sample to ~30 GPa the structural data points to a pressure- driven increase in tetragonal distortion of ReO6 octahedra. A sizable but pressure- independent Re orbital-to-spin magnetic moment ratio is observed, pointing to the critical role of spin-orbit interaction at Re sites. We present a jeff description of the electronic structure that combines effects of crystal field and spin-orbit coupling on the Re 5d2 orbitals and use this description to provide insight into the pressure-induced enhancement of magnetic anisotropy.
A paper based on this work has been published in Physc. Rev. B 98, 054402 (2018).
B. New functional oxides for photovoltaic application
B. 1. Designing a Lower Band Gap Bulk Ferroelectric Material with a Sizable Polarization at Room temperature.
A Collaborate work with Prof. D.D. Sarma, which started last year for the design of lower band gap ferroelectric oxides for photovoltaic application, has been completed this year. Briefly the details are as follows: A low band gap ferroelectric material to harvest solar energy because of its efficient polarization-driven charge carrier separation. We achieve this elusive goal by codoping a Jahn-Teller Mn3+ and Nb5+ pair for two Ti4+ ions in ferroelectric BaTiO3 . Representing a charge-neutral dipole doping, this approach achieves for the first time a bulk ferroelectric oxide with the lowest band gap of 1.66 eV with a sizable polarization of nearly 70% of BaTiO3.We contrast this with the analogous system with Mn3+ replaced by the non- Jahn-Teller Fe3+ (3d5) ions, which even at a much lower level of doping reduces the polarization to 25% without reducing the band gap significantly, establishing the efficacy of the present strategy.
A paper based on this work has been published in ACS Energy Lett. 2018, 3, 1176-1182.
117 List of Publications based on the discussed above in 2018
1. Exploring the Corundum Structure as a Host for Colored Compound- Synthesis, Structures, and optical studies of (MM’)3TeO6(M=Mg, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn;M’=Mg,Mn, Co, Ni, Cu), Anupam Bhim, Jagannatha Gopalkrishnan and Srinivasan Natarajan, Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 2018, 2277-2284.
2. Tuning Magnetic Coercivity with External Pressure in Iron- Rhenium Based Ferrimagnetic Double Perovskites, C. A. Escanhoela, Jr. G. Fabbris, F. Sun, C. Park, Jagannatha Gopalkrishnan, K. Ramesha, E. Granado, N.M. Souza-Neto, M. van Veenendaal, and D. haskel, Phys. Rev. B 98, 054402(2018).
3. Designing a Lower Band Gap Bulk Ferroelectric Material with a Sizable Polarization at Room Temperature, Shyamashis Das, Somnath Ghara, Priya mahadevan, A. Sundaresan, Jagannatha Gopalkrishnan, and D. D. Sarma, ACS Energy Lett. 2018, 3, 1176-1182.
4. Realising blue colour in cobalt substituted silicates: Synthesis, structure and optical studies, Anupam Bhim, S. Baishya, S. Gurusamy, J. Gopalakrishnan and S. Natarajan, J. Indian. Chem. Soc. 2018, 95, 1579-1586.
23. Prof. Sumita Jha NASI Senior Scientist
1. Title/Theme of the work being done Phylogenetic analysis of Indian members of Drimia and allied genera of Scilloideae based on molecular cytogenetic, phytochemical and systematic studies. Cytogenetics of Indian Cucurbits [Mentor, Ph.D. student] Evaluation of the effects of rol genes of Agrobacterium rhizogenes on morphogenesis and secondary metabolite accumulation; Identification of rolB-induced auxin responsive transcription factors involved in hairy root formation [D. Basu, Bose Institute, PhD Co- supervisor.]
118 2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report Asparagaceae subfamily Scilloideae sensu APG III (alternatively Hyacinthaceae sensu APG II) comprises of four tribes of bulbous geophytes distributed worldwide. Among the members of this subfamily, Drimia (‗squill‘) is a medicinally important polytypic genus, represented in India by eight species. But the taxonomic delimitation and interspecies relationship within Drimia are controversial till date. The present study demonstrated an explicit phylogenetic relationship among different Indian species of this genus based on both nuclear and organellar non-coding DNA sequence complexity. The ribosomal DNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, chloroplast DNA trnL intron, rps16- trnK intergenic spacer and atpB-rbcL intergenic spacer regions of all the collected taxa were PCR amplified and sequenced. A total of 48 newly generated nucleotide sequences of these four phylogenetic marker regions of the studied species of Drimia have been deposited in the NCBI GenBank. The present phylogenetic analysis revealed the monophyletic origin of Indian members of Drimia and grouped them into two possible lineages (clade- I and II). The clade-I could be further divided into two distinct subclades (I and II) based on concatenated sequences of three cpDNA non-coding regions. Analysis of leaf morpho-anatomical and pollen micromorphology suggested a possible trend of evolution of two important traits: ‗type of palisade cells‘ in leaf and ‗pollen exine patterns‘ among the studied members of Drimia. The present study brings out new insights on the interspecific delimitation and species diversification of Indian species of Drimia and provides important background information for further studies on related species and their biogeography. Cytogenetical and phytochemical investigations are in progress. Cucurbits in general and Momordica species in particular have long been known not to be amenable to conventional cytological techniques. After thorough technical standardization, we primarily structured karyotypes of two prominent taxonomic varieties viz. M. charantia var. charantia and M. charantia var. muricata. Significant differences in genome size, pronounced intraspecific dissimilarity in somatic chromosomes established by EMA- Giemsa method and this difference in varieties was substantiated by fluorochrome banding revealing four and six nucleolar chromosomes in MCC & MCM populations respectively. These results will benefit the classification, the genetic basis of domestication and the genome studies of this widely cultivated cash crop.
3. Publications, if any during the period of report Journal article 1. Saha PS, Jha S (2019) A molecular phylogeny of the genus Drimia (Asparagaceae: Scilloideae: Urgineeae) in India inferred from non-coding chloroplast and nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences. Scientific Reports 9(1): 7563 [IF: 4.122] 2. Bahman B, Naji M, Bose R, Jha S (2019) A critical review on use of Agrobacterium rhizogenes and their associated binary vectors for plant transformation. Biotechnology Advances, [IF: 12.831]
119 3. Ghosh I, Bhowmick BK, Jha S (2018). Cytogenetics of two Indian varieties of Momordica charantia L.(bittergourd). Scientia Horticulturae 240: 333-343. [IF: 1.961] 4. Nandagopal K, Halder M, Dash B, Nayak S, Jha S (2018) Biotechnological Approaches for Production of Anti-Cancerous Compounds Resveratrol, Podophyllotoxin and Zerumbone. Current Medicinal Chemistry 25: 4693-4717. [IF: 3.469]
Book Edited 5. Jha, Sumita (ed.), (2019). Endophytes and Secondary Metabolites, Reference Series in Phytochemistry, Springer, Cham.
Book Chapters 6. Sarkar S, Ghosh I, Roychowdhury D, Jha S (2018) The Effects of rol Genes of Agrobacterium rhizogenes on Morphogenesis and Secondary Metabolite Accumulation in Medicinal Plants. Chapter 2 pages 27-51. In: N. Kumar (ed.), Biotechnological Approaches for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-0535-1_2; © Springer Nature Singapore Pvt Ltd. 7. Halder M, Roychowdhury D, Jha S (2018) A Critical Review on Biotechnological Interventions for Production and Yield Enhancement of Secondary Metabolites in Hairy Root Cultures. In: Srivastava V., Mehrotra S., Mishra S. (eds) Hairy Roots. Springer, Singapore DOI 4. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report Participating, having Coordinated, a multi-institutional project involving Six Universities from different parts of India, funded by DBT(GOI), on a new online comprehensive database, developed for genome-related information of Indian plants (dGRIP). The dGRIP database in strict sense shows chromosome numbers with comprehensive cytogenetic data of each Indian species/genus in contrast to the current databases available with chromosome numbers only. Work is in progress in formulating second phase of the project to complete the information on more than 18000 plant species from India.
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report 1. As Resource person delivered Lecture at 24th Inspire Science Camp for 11th std students, sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), at University of Madras (ALM Center for Basic sciences), Chennai on 27.12.2018. 2. Delivered lecture on ―An overview of traditional and modern approaches in cytotaxonomy‖ at National Workshop on ―Vascular Plant Taxonomy…‖, organized by Taxonomy Research & Training Centre (AICOPTAX, MoEF & CC, GOI) and CAS, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta on 11.12.2018. 3. Delivered Lecture on ―Cytogenetics of Indian Cucurbits: a story in the making‖ at One Day Symposium to commemorate Late Prof. Arun K. Sharma on Recent Advances in Plant Science Research organized by NASI Local Chapter, Kolkata held at CSIR- IICB on 18.09. 2018.
120 6. Few Photographs
Fig. 1 Maximum likelihood tree showing the phylogenetic relationships among the Indian species of Drimia based on rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 sequences (Saha and Jha 2019 Scientific Reports 9(1): 7563).
Fig. 2 Maximum parsimony phylogeny among the Indian species of Drimia based on concatenated sequences of cpDNA trnL intron, rps16-trnK intergenic spacer and atpB-rbcL intergenic spacer. Numbers beneath nodes are Bootstrap support (BS) indices. Two selected morphological characters of taxonomic importance (pollen exine pattern and mesophyll cell characteristics) have been mapped on the tree (Saha and Jha 2019 Scientific Reports 9(1): 7563)
121 Publications of the Academy
122 3. Publications of the Academy
A. Status of Publication of National Academy Science Letters
Significant Achievements National Academy Science Letters received 2017 Impact Factor (IF) as 0.519 from Thomson Reuters. 2017 Google h5-index of the journal is 14, which was 11 in the previous year. It was found that more than half (2016-2017) of National Academy Sciences Letters were cited in different journals of the world in 2018 (web of Science). 2017 Scimage Journal Ranking is 0.189 for this journal. The journal has received 2017 Cite Score as 0.63 as per data of Scopus. All the manuscripts have been checked for plagiarism by a software ―iThenticate‖, before further processing. Around 160 papers were received in above mentioned period from ninteen countries viz. China, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Nepal, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Poland, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States and Vietnam. Overall rejection rate was 48% in 2012, 58% in 2013, 81% in 2014, 89% in 2015, 80% in 2016, 75% in 2017, 75% in 2018 and 82% in 2019.
Variation of Impact Factor during last five Years for National Academy Science Letters
0.6
0.5
0.4
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0.1
0 2012.5 2013 2013.5 2014 2014.5 2015 2015.5 2016 2016.5 2017 2017.5
123 B. Status of Publication of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India, Section- A (Physical Sciences)
Significant Achievements PNASI-Sec.A received 2017 Impact Factor (IF) as 0.754 from Thomson Reuters. 2017 Google h5-index of the journal is 11, which was 9 in the previous year. It was found that more than half (2015-2016) of PNASI, Sec.A were cited in different journals of the world in 2017 (web of Science). 2017 Scimage Journal Ranking is 0.267 for this journal. The journal has received 2017 CiteScore as 0.80 as per data of Scopus. Special Issue on ―Lasers for biomedical and material processing applications‖ was published as part III, 2018 of PNASI, Sec.A under guidance of Prof. P.K Gupta & Prof. J.P. Mittal. All the manuscripts have been checked for plagiarism by a software ―iThenticate‖, before further processing. Around 106 papers were received in above mentioned period from thirteen countries viz. China, India, Iran, Iraq, Korea, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, Tunisha, Malaysia and Morocco. Overall rejection rate was 48% in 2012, 58% in 2013, 81% in 2014, 89% in 2015, 80% in 2016, 75% in 2017, 76% in 2018 and 75 % in 2019.
Variation of Impact Factor during last five Years for PNASI, Sec.A (Physical Sciences)
0.8 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
124 C. Status of Publication of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences India Section B Biological Sciences Significant Achievements: Comprehensive Editorial Board: Editor-in-Chief- Prof. Amit Ghosh, Managing Editor- Prof. U.C. Srivastava; with 28 Editorial Board Members and another 37 Subject Editors (including 10 Foreign Experts) The journal has received 2017 Cite Score (like impact factor) as 0.62(233 citations in 2017 divided by 376 publications during 2014-16) from Scopus;the 2016CiteScore was 0.52. 2017 Google Journal h5- index-=16; which was 15 in the preceding year. 2017Scimago Journal Ranking=0.237, which was 0.228 in the previous year. 2017 SNIP=0.457 which was 0.338 in the previous year Thomson Reuters Impact factor = 0.396 (of 2013). Springer citations= 507 for all 1053 (published+Online) articles as per ―citations.springer.com‖. All the manuscripts have been checked for plagiarism by a software ―iThenticate‖ before further processing Around 116manuscripts were received in 2019 (till 8th April) fromeighteen (18) countries (Argentina, Brazil, Brunet Darussalam, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Russian Federation, Sudan, Thiland,Tunisia, and Turkey) Citation of articles published in the journal has significantly increased; however, self- citation has remarkably decreased as per Scimago website-www.scimagojr.com.
125 4. Memorial Lecture Awards
The following Awards were given -
a) Prof. Meghnad Saha Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Srikumar Banerjee, Chancellor, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai b) Prof. N.R. Dhar Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. A.K. Nangia, Director National Chemical Laboratory, Pune c) Dr. P. Sheel Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Renu Swarup, Secretary, Govt. of India, DBT, New Delhi d) Prof. Saligram Sinha Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Prof. Arun Kumar Pandey, University of Delhi, Delhi e) Prof. R.C. Gupta Endowment History of Science Lecture Award (2018) Prof. Satya Deo, Honorary Scientist HRI, Allahabad f) Prof. R. N. Tandon Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Sanjay Kapoor, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi g) Prof. B.K. Bachhawat Memorial Young Scientist Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Swarup Kumar Parida, NIPGR, New Delhi h) Prof. Shri Ranjan Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Prof. L.C. Rai, BHU Distinguished Professor, Bhu, Varanasi i) Lecture Award in the field of Toxicology (2018) Dr. Aditya Bhushan Pant, Principal Scientist, CSIR-IITR, Lucknow j) Prof. Krishnaji Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Prof. H.S. Mani, Adjunct Professor, Chennai Mathematical Institute, Chennai k) Prof. (Mrs.)Archana Sharma Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Nilima Arun Kshirsagar, National Chair Clinical Pharmacology ICMR, New Delhi l) Prof. V P Sharma Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Neena Valecha, Scientist G & Director ICMR-NIMR, New Delhi m) Prof. A.K Sharma Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Prof. Asis Datta, Former NASI Platinum Jubilee Chair Distinguished Professor, NIPGR, New Delhi n) Prof. P. C. Ray Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Prof. Animesh Chakravorty, Emeritus Professor, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata o) Dr. Mridula Kamboj Memorial Lecture Award (2018) Dr. Smita Dilip Mahale, Scientist G and Director, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai And
Prof. MGK Menon Memorial Award-2018 Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Chairman, Raman Research Institute Council Bangalore
Prof. MGK Menon Lecture Award-2018 Dr. V. Ramgopal Rao, Director, IIT Delhi, New Delhi
126 5. NASI-Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellowships (2019)
The following were selected as Senior Scientists –
Biological Sciences:
1. Dr. Rup Lal, Professor, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 2. Dr. Subhash Chandra Lakhotia, Distinguished Professor, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi – 221005 3. Dr. Jaya Sivaswami Tyagi, Professor & Head, Department of Biotechnology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 4. Dr. Khareedu Venkateswara Rao, Professor & Director, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology, Osmania University, Hyderabad
Physical Sciences:
1. Dr. Dipankar Home, Senior Professor, Bose Institute, Salt Lake, Kolkata 2. Dr. Ushadevi Narendra Bhosle, Sr. Professor, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai 3. Dr. O.N.Srivastava, Professor, Hydrogen Energy Centre, Dept. of Physics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 4. Dr. Anil Kumar, Professor, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Roorkee
6. Recognitions/Awards
(A) NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awards (2018) were given to-
Biological Sciences: 1. Dr. C. Anandharama Krishnan, Director, Indian Institute of Crop Processing Technology, Pudhukottai Road, Thanjavur – 613005 2. Prof. Nandini Chatterjee Singh, Professor, National Brain Research Centre, NH-8, Manesar, Gurugram – 122051 3. Dr. Pulok Kumar Mukherjee, Head, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology & Director, School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, 188, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata – 700032
Physical Sciences: a. Prof. Navakanta Bhat, Professor, CeNSE, IISc Banglore, E-35, IISc Campus, Bangalore-560012
127 b. Prof. Rohit Srivastava, Professor, Room No. 505, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai– 400076 c. Prof. Pralay Maiti, Professor, School of Material Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi – 221005
(B) NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awards (2018) were given to-
Physical Sciences :
1. Dr. Mayank Shrivastava, Assistant Professor, Department of Electronics Systems Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560012 2. Dr. Sushmee Badhulika, Associate Professor, Room no-E-211, E Block, Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana – 502285 3. Dr. Ravikrishnan Vinu, Associate Professor, Room No-201, Chemical Engg. Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Chennai- 600036 4. Dr. Arpita Patra, Assistant Professor, Room No. 331, Department of Computer Science and Automation, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru -560012 5. Dr. Shyam Sundar Ghoshal, Reader, Centre for Applicable Mathematics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Post Bag No. 6503, GKVK Post Office, Sharda Nagar, Chikkabommsandra, Bangalore – 560065 6. Dr. Sudhanwa Patra, Assistant Professor, Centre of Excellence in Theoretical and Mathematical Sciences, Siksha ‗O‘ Anusandhan University, Khandagiri Sqaare, Bhubaneswar – 751030 7. Dr. Vikram Vishal, Assistant Professor, Discipline of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai – 400076
Chemical Sciences:
1. Dr. Uttam Manna, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Kamrup, Assam-781039 2. Dr. Chandra Mouleeswara Rao Volla, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai – 400076 3. Dr. Rajib Ghosh, Scientific Officer, Radiation and Photochemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tromay, Mumbai – 400085 4. Dr. John Mondal, Scientist, Inorganic & Physical Chemistry Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Taranka, Hyderabad-500007, Telangana
Biological Sciences:
1. Dr. Mahak Sharma, Associate Professor, Room 3F7, Academic Block-2, Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research Mohali, Sector-81, Knowledge City, SAS Nagar, Mohali, Punjab-140306 2. Dr. Yogita K. Adlakha, DST Inspire Faculty, Department of Cellular & Molecular Neruroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana 122051
128 3. Dr. Anupam Guleria, DST INSPIRE Faculty, Centre of Biomedical Research (CBMR), Sanjay Gandhi P.G.I.M.S. Campus, Raebareli Road, Lucknow – 226014 4. Dr. Arvind Kumar Rengan, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engg., Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy-502285 5. Dr. Manjul Singh, Severo Ochoa Postdoctoral Fellow, C/o Prof. J.P. Khurana, Interdisciplinary Centre for Plant Genomics, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi– 110021 6. Dr. Ashish Kumar Srivastava, Scientific Officer-F, Plant Stress Physiology and Biotechnology Section, Nuclear Agriculture & Biotechnology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai – 400085 7. Dr. Muthamilarasan Mehanathan, DST INSPIRE Faculty, ICAR-National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, Pusa Campus, New Delhi – 110012 8. Dr. Jogi Madhuprakash, Assistant Professor, Room No-F69, Department of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad – 500046Dr. Dipak Gayen, National Post-Doctoral Fellow (SRB-NPDF), National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, P.O. Box 10531, New Delhi- 110067.
(C) NASI-SCOPUS Young Scientist Awards –2018
WOMEN IN SCIENCE Dr. Zhumur Ghosh, Assistant Professor, Bose Institute, Kolkata. AGRICULTURE, PLANT SCIENCES AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT Dr. Jitender Giri, Staff Scientist III, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, New Delhi ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Dr. Vimal Chandra Srivastava – Associate Professor, IIT Roorkee BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH AND HEALTHCARE Dr. Maddika Subba Reddy, Group Leader and Staff Scientist-V, CDFD, Hyderabad INNOVATION IN ENGINEERING AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES Dr. Ajay S. Karakoti, Associate Professor, Ahmedabad University
(D) i) NASI-SWARNA JAYANTI PURASKARS FOR BEST PAPER (Oral/Poster 2018), were given to –
Ms. Harshita Pandey, Plant Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow
Ms. Namrata Dwivedi, Faculty of Science and Environment, M.G.C.G.V., Chitrakoot, Satna
Ms. Preeti Jha, Division of Cyclotron and Radiopharmaceutical Sciences, INMAS, DRDO, Timarpur, Delhi Ms. Paulomi Dey, Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong
129 Ms. Vani Mishra, NMR Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow Ms. Ritika Srivastava, Bio-organic Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad Sri S. Umer Khalifa, Centre for Climate Change Studies, International Research Centre, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
Sri Shashank Tripathi, Remote Sensing and GIS Division, MGCGV, Chitrakoot ii) NASI-Springer Award (Oral/Poster 2018), were given to –
Sri Arideep Mukherjee, Laboratory of Air Pollution and Global Climate Change, Department of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi Sri Sheikh Adil Edrisi, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi Ms. Namrata Dwivedi, Faculty of Science and Environment, M.G.C.G.V., Chitrakoot, Satna Sri Ajeet Singh, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, BHU, Varanasi Sri Mohd. Gulman Siddiqui, Department of Electronics and Communication, University of Allahabad, Allahabad Sri A. Arulraj, University College of Engineering-Bharathidasan Institute of Technology (BIT) campus, Anna University, Tiruchirappalli
Sri Harit K. Sharma, Department of Physics, APS University, Rewa.
Sri Swapnil Mishra, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IITD), New Delhi
130 7. Fellowship and Membership
The National Academy of Sciences, India has a two-tier composition comprising, Members and Fellows, right from its inception. Both categories participate in the activities of the Academy.
The Academy has a total of 1807 Fellows including 17 Honorary Fellows and 103 Foreign Fellows. These include scientists from all disciplines of Science and Technology from India and abroad. These numbers also include the Fellows and Foreign Fellows elected/admitted during the year 2018 (Annexure I). At present the Academy has 1774 Members on its roll of which 38 were admitted during the year 2018 (Annexure II). 8. Obituary
The Academy condoled the sad demise of the following Honorary Fellows/Fellows/Foreign Fellows
1. Prof. Alan Baker,(Foreign Fellow) 2. Prof. Arun Baran Banerjee (Fellow) 3. Prof.H.P. Dikshit 4. Prof. Jayanta Kumar Ghosh 5. Dr. Narendra Pal Gupta 6. Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain 7. Dr. Sarvagya Singh Katiyar 8. Dr. Narendra Kumar 9. Dr. Ram Mohan,H.Y. 10. Dr. Chivukula Anjaneya Murthy 11. Prof. Hira Lal Nigam 12. Prof. Yash Pal Singh Pangtey 13. Dr. Ram Shankar Pathak 14. Dr. Kuppusamy Porsezian 15. Dr. Rengaswamy Ramesh 16. Dr. Prasanta Kumar Ray 17. Dr. Lakshmy Narayanan Santhakumaran 18. Prof. Parimal C. Sen 19. Prof. Kailash Nath Srivastava 20. Prof. Pratap Narain Srivastava
131 9. COUNCIL
Council 2018
President 1. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, DSc(hc), FNASc, FASc, FNAE, FIE, Formerly Chairman, AEC & Secretary, DAE, GOI; DAE Homi Bhabha Chair Professor & Member AEC, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai – 400085 Past Presidents 2. Prof. Akhilesh K. Tyagi, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAAS, FTWAS, Formerly Director, NIPGR; Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi - 110021 3. Prof. Asis Datta, PhD, DSc, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS, Formerly Vice- Chancellor, JNU & Founder Director, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi – 110067. Vice-Presidents 4. Prof. Rohini Madhusudan Godbole, PhD(SUNY), DLitt, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS, Professor, Centre for High Energy Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 5. Prof. Pramod Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FBS, Formerly Vice-Chancellor, NEHU, Shillong; Chief Executive Officer, Biotech Park, Sector G, Kursi Road, Jankipuram, Lucknow – 226021 Treasurer 6. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan, PhD, FNASc, Professor-H, Harish Chandra Research Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhusi, Allahabad – 211019
Foreign Secretary 7. Prof. Pramod Kumar Garg, MBBS, MD, DM, FNASc, FAMS, Professor, Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi - 110029
General Secretaries 8. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAAS, FTWAS, JC Bose National Fellow, Professor, Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi - 110021 9. Prof. Satya Deo, PhD (Arkansas, USA), FNASc, Senior Scientist, Harish-Chandra Research Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhusi, Allahabad - 211019
Members 10. Prof. Madhoolika Agrawal, PhD, FNASc, FNAAS, Professor, Department of Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi – 221005
132 11. Prof. Jayesh Ramesh Bellare, PhD, FNASc, FNAE, Institute Chair Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai- 400076
12. Prof. Balram Bhargava, MBBS, MD, DM, FNASc, FACC, FAHA, FAMS, Professor, Cardiothoracic Sciences Centre, Executive Director, Stanford India Biodesign Centre, Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi - 110029 13. Dr. Subhra Chakraborty, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNAAS, Staff Scientist VII (Professor), National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi - 110067 14. Dr. Sugeerappa Laxmanappa Hoti, PhD, FNASc, FISP, Scientist G & Director- in-Charge, Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR), Nehru Nagar (Opp.KLE Hospital), Belagavi– 590010 15. Dr. Gyan Chandra Mishra, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Senior Scientist, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, NCCS Complex, Pune-411007 16. Prof. Jayant Moreshwar Modak, PhD, FNASc, FNAE, Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore – 560012 17. Dr. Sankar Kumar Pal, PhD (Cal.& Lond.), DIC, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAE, FIEEE, FTWAS, FIAPR, FIFSA, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Distinguished Scientist and Former Director, Indian Statistical Institute, 203, B.T. Road, Kolkata -700108 18. Prof. Anunay Samanta, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Professor, School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad - 500046 19. Prof. L.S. Shashidhara, PhD (Cambridge,UK), FNASc, FASc, FNA, Professor & Coordinator (Biology), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, 900, NCL Innovation Park, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune – 411008 20. Dr. Dinesh Kumar Srivastava, PhD, FNASc, FNA, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Former Director & Distinguished Scientist, Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, 1/AF, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata – 700064 21. Prof. Sampat Kumar Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FGS, FTWAS, Visiting Professor, IISER Bhopal, Bhopal Bypass Road, Bhauri, Bhopal – 462066 22. Dr. Anil Kumar Tripathi, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FNAAS, FRBS, FAMI, Director, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Near Kukrail Picnic Spot, PO CIMAP, Lucknow – 226015 23. Prof. Anil Kumar Tyagi, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Vice-Chancellor, GGS Indraprastha University, Sector 16C, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110078
Council 2019
President Prof. G. Padmanaban, PhD, DSc(hc), FNASc, FNA, FASc, FTWAS, Former Director,Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 Past Presidents Prof. Anil Kakodkar, DSc(hc), FNASc, FASc, FNAE, FIE, Formerly Chairman, AEC & Secretary, DAE, GOI; Chairman, TIFAC & Member AEC, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai – 400085
133 Prof. S.K. Joshi, DPhil, DSc(hc), FNASc, FNA, FASc, FTWAS, Mem.Russian Acad.Sc., Formerly Director General, CSIR & NASI Platinum Jubilee Chair Distinguished Professor; # 252, National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi-110012 Vice-Presidents Prof. Jaya S. Tyagi, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FASc, Professor & Head, Dept. of Biotechnology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi - 110029 Prof. Lal Chand Rai, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FNAAS, DAE Raja Ramanna Fellow & JC Bose National Fellow, CAS in Botany, Institute of Science, BHU, Varanasi - 221005 Treasurer Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan, PhD, FNASc, Professor-H, Harish-Chandra Research Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhusi, Allahabad – 211019 Foreign Secretary Prof. P.N. Rangarajan, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FASc, FAMS, Professor, Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 General Secretaries Prof. Paramjit Khurana, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FASc, FNAAS, FTWAS, JC Bose National Fellow, Professor & Head, Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi - 110021 Prof. Satya Deo, PhD(Arkansas, USA), FNASc, Formerly Vice Chancellor, APS University, Rewa, MP; Honorary Scientist, Harish-Chandra Research Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhusi, Allahabad - 211019 Members Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, Ph.D., FNASc, FNAE, Director, Indian Statistical Institute, 203, B.T. Road, Kolkata – 700108 Dr. Suchitra Banerjee, Ph.D., FNASc, Formerly Chief Scientist, Plant Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, PO - CIMAP, Lucknow – 226015 Prof. Balram Bhargava, MBBS, MD, DM, FNASc, FACC, FAHA, FAMS, Secretary, Department of Health Research, GoI; & Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research, PO Box No. 4911, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi - 110029 Prof. Subhra Chakraborty, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNAAS, Staff Scientist VII, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi - 110067 Dr. Swapan K. Ghosh, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FASc, FTWAS, Distinguished Professor, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, Health Centre Building, University of Mumbai, Kalina Campus, Mumbai 400098 Dr. A.S. Kiran Kumar, FNASc, FNAE, FIETE, FAPAS, FIMS, FGSA, FISRS, Former Chairman, ISRO & Secretary, Department of Space; 485/1, Vyoma, 80 Ft. Road, R.T. Nagar, Bangalore – 560032 Dr. Smita Dilip Mahale, Ph.D., FNASc, FNA, Scientist G & Director, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai – 400012
134 Dr. Gyan Chandra Mishra, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FASc, NASI-Chair Distinguished Professor, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, NCCS Complex, Pune- 411007 Dr. Shailesh Nayak, Ph.D., DSc(hc), FNASc, FASc, Director, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore – 560012 Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, PhD, FNASc, FIEEE, FNA, FASc, FNAE, FIETE, Director, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110016 Prof. Anunay Samanta, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FASc, Professor & JC Bose National Fellow, School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad - 500046 Dr. Dinesh Kumar Srivastava, PhD, FNASc, FNA, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Former Director & Distinguished Scientist, Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, 1/AF, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata – 700064 Dr. Anil Kumar Tripathi, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FNAAS, FRBS, FAMI, Director, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Near Kukrail Picnic Spot, PO CIMAP, Lucknow – 226015 Prof. Umesh Vasudeo Waghmare, Ph.D.(Yale), FNASc, FNA, FASc, Professor, Theoretical Sciences Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bangalore – 560064
10. Meetings
Four Council Meetings, two Meetings of the Fellows and one Annual General Body Meeting were held during the period of the report. Several other meetings as of Fellowship Scrutiny Committee, Membership Scrutiny Committee, Editorial Board Meetings, Standing Committees of Finance, and Purchase, Lecture Award Scrutiny Committees, Science Teacher Award Scrutiny Committee, Library Committee and other Sub committees also met during the year. The Academy also observed Vigilance Week and Hindi Diwas/Pakhwara during the period of report.
135 11. Organizational Chart
Council
President Editorial Boards Committees of the constituted by Journals the Council Vice-Presidents Treasurer General Secretaries Foreign Secretary
Executive Secretary
Deputy Executive Secretary
Assistant Executive Secretaries
Section Officers
Office Assistants
To manage the following activites of the Academy
Scientific Science Fellowship/ NASI-Chairs Scientific Organisational Organisational Publications Communication Membership & Exhibits & Activities/ Activities Activities Senior Scientists Documentation Chapters
Scientific Projects/ Awards & Library & Finance & Collaborations Despatch/ Research Recognition Information Accounts & Correspondan Meetings ce & others
136 12. Finance
Standing Finance Committee for the Year 2018
1. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President - Chairperson 2. Prof. Rohini Madhusudan Godbole – Vice-President 3. Prof. Pramod Tandon – Vice-President 4. Joint Secretary & Financial Advisor, DST, New Delhi or his/her nominee 5. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan– Treasurer 6. Prof. Satya Deo, HRI, Allahabad 7. Prof. U.C. Srivastava - General Secretary (HQ) 8. Prof. Veena Tandon - General Secretary (outstation)
Standing Finance Committee for the Year 2019
1. Prof. G. Padmanaban, President - Chairperson 2. Prof. Jaya S. Tyagi – Vice-President 3. Prof. Lal Chand Rai – Vice-President 4. Joint Secretary & Financial Advisor, DST, New Delhi or his/her nominee 5. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan– Treasurer 6. Prof. U.C. Srivastava, UoA, Prayagraj -Member 7. Prof. Satya Deo - General Secretary (HQ) 8. Prof. Paramjit Khurana - General Secretary (outstation)
Financial Position
The financial position of the Academy for the year ended on March 31, 2019 is given in Annexure III.
The Academy records its grateful thanks to the following departments of the Government of India for financial support.
(a) Department of Science & Technology, New Delhi. (b) Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi. (c) Department of Atomic Energy, New Delhi. (d) Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi (e) Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi
137 Activities of the Local Chapters of the Academy 2018-19
The Report on the Activities of the Local Chapters of the Academy, organized during April 2018 to March 2019 is on NASI websites (www.nasi.org.in and www.nasi.nic.in); also a brief picturesque view has been given in Annexure IV.
138 14. Building & Dr. Sir Padampat Singhania Library
Building: The Academy is functioning in its magnificent building, which has an auditorium having a capacity of about 200 persons, a Council Room, Committee Room, Rooms of the Office-bearers and the office space. An Annexe Block has now been added to this, having space for the Singhania Library and the Ganga Gallery. The office has networking with 2 MBPS Internet Port and National Knowledge Network connectivity of NIC, New Delhi.
Library: The Library exchanges its publications with 23 organizations and is receiving 37 journals (23 of Physical Sciences, 14 Biological Sciences and 8 miscellaneous) from India and abroad in exchange and/or gratis. 05 important journals and 19 scientific magazines are also being subscribed by the Library. Library has 5580 bound volumes of journals.
During the period under report more than 100 new books have been added.
A section in the Library especially for science students of + 2 level has been maintained. A large number of books have been donated by Prof. H.S. Mani, Late Prof. U.S. Srivastava, Prof. Chandrika Prasad and others, besides those, which have been purchased. It is worth mentioning that a large number of students visit the Library daily and find it useful.
As a new activity, Internet facility for educational purpose is also being provided to the students free-of-cost.
15. Acknowledgements
We take this opportunity to thank all our Fellows and Members for their cooperation and useful suggestions. We are particularly grateful to the Presidents, Prof. Anil Kakodkar and Prof G. Padmanaban, and members of the Council for their guidance; to Chief Editors (Prof. J.P. Mittal, Prof. Amit Ghosh and Prof. Girjesh Govil), Managing Editors (Prof. S.L. Srivastava and Prof. U.C. Srivastava), and members of the Editorial Boards of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India (Sections A & B) and the Science Letters; also Dr Chitranjan Sharma (Technical Editor), and the referees for their valuable suggestions and cooperation. We also record our gratitude to the Secretary, DST; Director (AI Div.), DST and AS&FA, DST, New Delhi; we are also thankful to M/s Amit Ray and Co., Chartered Accountants, Prayagraj for auditing the Academy‘s accounts. Lastly, we thank Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, Shri A.K. Srivastava, Dy. Executive Secretary, Shri B.P. Singh, Dr. Santosh Shukla and Dr. Pavitra Tandon, Assistant Executive Secretaries, and all other staff of the Academy for their ungrudging assistance and cooperation in every possible way.
139 Annexure I Fellows Elected for the year 2018
1. Agarwal, Avinash Kumar (b. 1972), PhD, FNAE, Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur – 208016 2. Arankalle, Vidya Avinash (b. 1952), PhD, FNA, FASc, Senior Scientist, IRSHA, Bharati Vidyapeeth University Complex, Pune - Satara Road, Katraj, Dhankawadi, Pune - 411043 3. Ashraf, Mohammad Zahid (b. 1973), PhD, Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Ramanujan Science Block, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi - 110025 4. Bakhshi, Sameer (b. 1969), MBBS, MD, Professor, Room No. 243, Department of Medical Oncology,Second Floor, Dr BRA Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi -110029 5. Bandyopadhyay, Arun (b. 1963), PhD, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja SC Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata - 700032 6. Barik, Saroj Kanta (b. 1965), PhD, Director, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow -226001 7. Bhatnagar, Manav (b. 1976), PhD, FNAE, FIET (UK), FIETE, Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi - 110016 8. Bhattacharyya, Aninda Jiban (b. 1968), PhD, FASc, Professor and Chair, Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 9. Chauhan, Prakash (b. 1969), PhD, Scientist G & Group Director, BPSG-EPSA, Room No. 4021, Space Applications Centre (ISRO), Jodhpur Tekra, Ambawadi Vistar P.O., Ahmedabad – 380015 10. Chauhan, Shyam Singh (b. 1958), PhD, FAMS, Professor & Former Head, Department of Biochemistry,All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi - 110029 11. Das, Sanjeev (b. 1976), PhD, Staff Scientist - V, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi - 110067 12. Das, Samar Kumar (b. 1963), PhD, FASc, Professor of Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad - 500046 13. Das, Shankar Prasad (b. 1959), PhD, FNA, FASc, Professor, School of Physical Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi - 110067 14. Dhar, Abhishek (b. 1970), PhD, FASc, Professor (H), International Centre for Theoretical Science (TIFR),Survey No. 151, Shivakote, Hesaraghatta Hobli, Bengaluru - 560089 15. Ganguli, Ranjan (b. 1967), PhD, FNAE, Satish Dhawan Chair Professor, Department of Aerospace Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 16. Giri, Ashok Prabhakar (b. 1967), PhD, Principal Scientist & Head, Division of Biochemical Sciences, National Chemical Laboratory, Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pune - 411008 17. Joshi, Jyeshtharaj Bhalchandra (b. 1949), PhD, FNA, FASc, FNAE, FTWAS, Emeritus Professor, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai - 400085 18. Karumuri, Ashok (b. 1966), PhD, Professor, CEOAS, Old Life Sciences Building, University of Hyderabad,Gachibowli, Hyderabad - 500046 19. Kaur, Rupinder (b. 1971), PhD, Staff Scientist VI, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting & Diagnostics, Survey Nos.728, 729, 730 & 734, Opposite Uppal Water Tank, Hyderabad - 500039 20. Khosla, Sanjeev (b. 1969), PhD, Staff Scientist VI & Group Head, Laboratory of Mammalian Genetics, CDFD, Tuljaguda (Opp. MJ Market), Nampally, Hyderabad - 500001 21. Khurana, Dinesh (b. 1970), PhD, Professor, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, Sector 14,Chandigarh - 160014 22. Kumar, Arun (b. 1960), PhD, Professor, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, New Biological Sciences Building, Lab GE12, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 23. Kundu, Sudip (b. 1971), PhD, Professor, Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology & Bioinfomatics,University of Calcutta, 92 APC Road, Kolkata - 700009 24. Laloraya, Malini (b. 1964), PhD, Scientist F, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud PO, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram – 695014 25. Maji, Pradipta (b. 1976), PhD, Professor, Machine Intelligence Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, 203 BT Road, Kolkata - 700108 26. Majumdar, Parthasarathi (b. 1953), PhD, Professor, Department of Physics, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda University, Belur Math - 711202, WB 27. Mallick, Nirupama (b. 1964), PhD, FNA, Professor & Head, Agricultural & Food Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal - 721302 28. Mathur, Premendu Prakash (b. 1955), PhD, FAMS, Professor & Head, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry – 605014 29. Mishra, Suman Kumari (b. 1964), PhD, Chief Scientist & Head, Corrosion and Surface Engineering Division, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur-831007 30. Mukherjee, Pulok Kumar (b. 1968), PhD, FRSC(UK), Director & Professor, School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, 188 Raja SC Mallick Road,Kolkata - 700032 31. Mukhopadhyay, Asish Kumar (b. 1967), PhD, Scientist E, ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, P-33, CIT Road, Scheme-XM, Beliaghata, Kolkata - 700010 32. Mustafa, Munshi Golam (b. 1962), Senior Professor, Theory Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata - 700064 33. Nagaraju, Ganesh (b. 1973), PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012 34. Parida, Swarup Kumar (b. 1979), PhD, Staff Scientist III, National Institute of Plant Genome Research,Lab No. 109, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi - 110067 35. Ramachandrappa, Niranjana Siddapura (b. 1959), PhD, FNAAS, Vice - Chancellor, Gulbarga University, Kalaburgi, Karnataka - 585106 36. Rao, Taduri Srinivasa Siva Rama Krishna (b. 1954), PhD, FASc, Head, Indian Statistical Institute, R.V.College Post, Bangalore - 560059 37. Ravikanth, Mangalampalli (b. 1966), PhD, FASc, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai – 400076 38. Roy, Satyajit (b. 1963), PhD, Professor, Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai - 600036 39. Sarkar, Nilmoni (b. 1965), PhD, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur - 721302 40. Shasany, Ajit Kumar (b. 1967), PhD, FNAAS, Chief Scientist, GRB Division, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, PO CIMAP, Lucknow - 226015 41. Singh, Kamal Priya (b. 1979), PhD, Associate Professor, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research, Sector 81, SAS Nagar, Mohali, Punjab 42. Singh, Pradeep Kumar (b. 1963), PhD, Director,CSIR- Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research,Barwa Road, Dhanbad - 826015; 43. Singh, Nandini Chatterjee (b. 1969), PhD, Professor, National Brain Research Centre, NH-8, Nainwal Mode, Manesar - 122050 44. Souradeep, Tarun (b. 1967), PhD, FASc, Scientist H (Senior Professor), Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Post Bag 4, Ganeshkhind, Pune - 411007 45. Sreeman, Sheshshayee Madavalam (b. 1964), PhD, Professor, Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bengaluru - 560065 46. Thangaraj, Kumarasamy (b. 1963), PhD, FNA, FASc, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR- Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad - 500007 47. Tharmalingam, Punniyamurthy (b. 1964), PhD, FASc, FRSC, HAG Professor and Head, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039 48. Trivedi, Ritu (b. 1971), PhD, Senior Scientist, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road,Post Box No. 173, Lucknow – 226031 49. Umapathy, Siva (b. 1959), PhD, FASc, FRSC, Chairman & Professor, Department of Inorganic & Physical Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore – 560012 50. Uthandi, Kamachi Mudali (b. 1960), PhD, Chief Executive & Chairman, Heavy Water Board, Department of Atomic Energy, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094
SCIENCE & SOCIETY
1. Jolly, Pratibha (b. 1954), PhD, Principal, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi – 110007 2. Swarup, Renu (b. 1960), PhD, Secretary, Govt. of India, Department of Biotechnology, Block No. 2, CGOComplex, Lodi Road, New Delhi – 110003
Foreign Fellows Elected for the year 2018
1. Bhadeshia, Harshad K.D.H. (b. 1953), PhD, FNAE, FRS(UK), FRAE(UK), Professor of Metallurgy, Department of Materials Science & Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, 27, Charles Babbage Road, Cambridge CB3 OFS, UK 2. Gazit, Ehud (b. 1966), PhD, Professor & Endowed Chair, Department of Molecular Microbiology & Biotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel 3. Maaza, M. (b. 1963), PhD, FRSC,Senior Scientist, Materials Research Department, iThemba Labs-National Research Foundation of South Africa, 1 Old Faure Rd PO Box 722, Samerset West 7129 Western Cape Province, South Africa 4. Mallapragada, Surya K. (b. 1972), PhD, FAIMBE, FAAAS, FNAI, Associate Vice President for Research,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Lowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA 5. Qadri, Firdausi (b. 1951), PhD, FTWAS, Senior Director, Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh, 68, Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka –1212 6. Xu, Qiang (b. 1964), PhD, FRSC, Director, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), 1-8-31 Midorigaoka, Ikeda, Osaka 563-8577, Japan 7. Zaidi, Mone (b. 1960), MBBS, PhD, MD, Professor of Medicine and of Pharmacological Sciences,Endocrinology, Box 1055, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York NY 10029, USA Annexure II Members Elected for the year 2018 1. Dr. Imtiaz Khan, Assistant Professor (Senior Grade), Department of Zoology, University of Kashmir,Hazratbal Srinagar 190006 (E-mail : [email protected]). 2. Dr. Prasanta K Dash, Principal Scientist, ICAR National Research on Plant Biotechnology Pusa Campus, New Delhi – 110012 ( E-mail : [email protected]) 3. Dr. Radha Jain, Head & Principal Scientist, Plant Physiology Biochemistry Division, Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow 226002 (E-mail : [email protected]) 4. Dr. Ranjeet R Kumar, Scientist (Senior Scale), Division of Biochemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi – 110012 (E-mail : [email protected] ) 5. Dr. Shilpi Sharma, Associate Professor, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110016 (E-mail : [email protected] ) 6. Dr. Sudip Mitra, Associate Professor, Centre for Rural Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, North Guwahati – 781039 (E-mail : [email protected] ) 7. Dr. Sachin Kumar, Associate Professor, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Guwahati – 781039 (E-mail : [email protected]) 8. Dr. Sukhadeo Baliram Barbuddhe, Principal Scientist , ICAR National Research Centre on Meat,Hyderabad – 500092 (E-mail : [email protected]) 9. Dr. Meetu Gupta, Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Milia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025 (E-mail : [email protected]) 10. Dr. Malik Zainul Abdin, Professor & Head, Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical & Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi- 110019(E-mail : [email protected]) 11. Dr. Satish Mishra, Senior Scientist, Division of Parasitology, Central Drug Research Institute, Sector-10,Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow– 226021 (E-mail: [email protected]) 12. Dr. Kalpana Kumari Barhwal, Assistant Professor, Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Sijua, Bhubaneswar – 751019 (E-mail : [email protected]) 13. Dr. Naresh Kasoju, Scientist C, Division Tissue Culture, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science & Technology, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram– 695012 (E-mail : [email protected]) 14. Dr. Neelima Dhingra, Assistant Professor, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Sector – 14, Chandigarh – 160014(E-mail: [email protected]) 15. Dr. Rajesh Kumar Goel, Professor of Phamacology, Deptt. of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala Punjab- 147002 (E-mail : [email protected]) 16. Dr. Bhanu Prakash, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Institute of Science Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi – 221005 (E-mail : [email protected]) 17. Dr. Gyan Prakash Mishra, Sr. Scientist (Genetics & Plant Breeding), Division of Genetics ICAR, Pusa, New Delhi -110012(E-mail : [email protected]) 18. Dr. Priyanka Agnihotri, Scientist, Plant Diversity, Systematics & Herbarium Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow (E-mail : [email protected]) 19. Dr. P. Ponmurugan, Associate Professor, Department of Botany, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore – 641046 (E-mail : [email protected]) 20. Dr. Rajesh Bajpei, Scientist Pool, Plant Diversity Systematics and Herbarium Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow- 226001(E- mail: [email protected]) 21. Dr. Vartika Jain, Lecturer, Department of Botany, Govt. Meera Girls’ College, Udaipur- 313001 (E-mail : [email protected]) 22. Dr. Abu Taleb Khan, HAG Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati,Guwahati – 781039 (E-mail : [email protected]) 23. Dr. Ashis Kumar Satpati, Scientific Officer (F), Analytical Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai – 400084 (E-mail : [email protected]) 24. Dr. N.D. Pradeep Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur – 721302 (E-mail : [email protected]) 25. Dr. Prabhat Kumar Singh, Scientific Officer (F), Radiation & Photochemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai – 400085 (E-mail : [email protected]) 26. Dr. Srikanta Patra, Assistant Professor, 207, School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, Argul, Jatni – 752050 (E-mail : [email protected]) 27. Dr. Manoranjan Mishra, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics, IIT Roper, Rupnagar 140001,Punjab (E-mail : [email protected]) 28. Dr. Ramesh B Kudenatti, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, Central College Campus,Bangalore University, Bangalore- 560001 (E-mail : [email protected]) 29. Dr. Sandeep Kunnath, Associate Professor, Centre for Applicable Mathematics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore – 560065 (E-mail : [email protected]) 30. Prof. (Dr.) Sanjib Kumar Datta, Professor, Department of Mathematics, University of Kalyani, P.O. Kalyani, Dist. Nadia – 741235, West Bengal (E-mail : [email protected]) 31. Dr. Vishal Vasan, Reader E, International Centre for theoretical Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Shivakote, Hesaraghata Hobli Bengaluru–560089(E-mail: [email protected]) 32. Dr. Alok Kanjilal, Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Shiv Nadar University NH91, Tehsil Dadri Gautam Buddha Nagar Uttar Pradesh – 201314 (E-mail : [email protected]) 33. Dr. Arjit Saha, Reader-F, Institute of Physics, Sachivalaya Marg, P.O. Sainik School, Bhubaneswar – 751005 (E-mail : [email protected]) 34. Dr. Kanhirodan Rajan, Professor, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Banaglore – 560012 (E-mail : [email protected] ) 35. Dr. Mahesh Kumar, Assistant Professor, Indian Institute of Technology, NH-65, Karwad Jodhpur 342037, (E-mail : [email protected] ) 36. Dr. Sangita Bose, Reader-F, UM-DAE Center for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai,Kalina Campus, Santacruz (E), Mumbai – 400098, (E-mail : [email protected]) 37. Dr. Soumitra Satapathi, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee – 247667, (E-mail : [email protected]) 38. Dr. Surajit Chattopadhyay, Associate Professor and Head, Department of Mathematics, Amity Institute of Applied Sciences, Amity University, Major Arterial Road, Action Area II, Rajarhat, new Town, Kolkata – 700135 (E-mail : [email protected]) 39. Dr. Madhusudan Singh, Associate Professor, Functional Material & Devices Laboratory, Deptt. of Electrical Engg., IIT Delhi Hauz Khas New Delhi – 110016, (E-mail : [email protected]) 40. Dr. Eswara Prasad Namburi, Outstanding Scientist/Sc H and Director, Defence Materials and Stores R&D Establishment (DMSRDE) G.T. Road, Kanpur–208013,(E-mail: [email protected]) 41. Dr. Rajneesh Bhardwaj, Associate Professor, Deptt. of Mechanical Engg., IIT Bombay Powai, Mumbai 400076 (E-mail : [email protected]) Annexure III
H. O. : S•B, Sardar Patel Marg, Allahabad • 211 001 ··amit ray & co. Phone : 2402763, 2407258 CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Fax : (0532) 2402763 E-mall : [email protected] Website : www.amltrayco.com
Ref. No ...... Dated ...... AUDIT REPORT
To
The Members of The National Academy of Sciences, India 5, Lajpatrai Road, Prayagraj - 211 002
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of The National Academy of Sciences, India, which comprises the Balance Sheet as at March 31, 2019 and Income & Expenditure Account and Receipt & Payment Account for the year ended on that date, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.
ln our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations given to us, the financial statements read in conjunction with significant accounting policies, Notes to Accounts and schedules (1 - 25), give the information required by the Act in the manner so required and give a true and fair view in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in India: (i) in the case of Balance Sheet, of the state of affairs of the above named institution as at March 31, 2019,
(ii) in the case of Income & Expenditure Account, of the income and expenditure for the year ended on that date, and
(iii) in the case of Receipt and Payment Account, of the receipts and payments for the year ended on that date.
Management is responsible for the preparation of these financial statements that give a true and fair view of the financial position, and financial performance of the Academy in accordance with the Society's Registration Act, 1860. This responsibility includes the design, implementation and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and presentation of the financial statements that give a true and fair view and are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Alsoat: NEW.DELHI, BANGALORE, KOLKATA, MUMBAI ·amit ray & co.
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with the Standards on Auditing issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. Those Statements require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are freefrom material misstatement
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the accounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the institution's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statement in order to design the audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of the accounting estimates made by the management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Place: Prayagraj
Dated: July 27, 2019
Partner M. No. 70468
continuation Sheet THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, INDIA BALANCE SHEET AS AT MARCH 31, 2019 (Amount - Rs.) Schedule Current Year Previous Year 2018-2019 2017-2018 CORPUS/CAPITAL FUND AND LIABILITIES Corpus/Capital Fund 1 5,72, 18,401.00 5,72, 18,401.00 Reservesand Surplus 2 2,52,04,663.40 2,52,04,663.40 Earmarked Endowment Funds 3 19,73,32,028.02 19,06,21,342.61 Secured Loans and Borrowings 4 - - Unsecured Loans and Borrowings 5 - - Deferred Credit Liabilities 6 - - Current Liabilities and Provisions 7 12,40,32,903.20 5,94,24,388.71
Total 40,37,87 ,995.62 33,24,68, 795. 72 ASSETS Fixed Assets 8 7,57,04,276.00 7,64,53, 122.00 Investments from Earmarked Endowment Funds 9 19,87,29,995.02 19,06,21,342.61 Investments - Others 10 11,25,99,000.00 4,93,99,000.00 Current Assets, Loans and Advances etc. 11 1,67,54,724.60 1,59,95,331.11 Miscellaneous Expenditure (to the extentnot writtenoff or adjusted)
Total 40,37 ,87 ,995.62 33,24,68, 795. 72
SignificantAccounting Policies 24 Contingent Liabilities and Notes on Accounts 25
(A. K. Srivastava) �� (Satya Deo) (B. Ramakrishnan) Qy. Exec1,1tiva.Secretant_ Executive Secretary G:ie�� Treasurer Dy. Exeeuttve �Hxeeutive Secretary Gene Treasurer NA.SI, PrayagraJ NASI, Prayagraj NASl, PrayagraJ NASI, Prayagraj
Subject to our report of ev
Amit y& Place: Prayagraj Chartered Accountants Date: July 27, 2019 FRN - 000483C THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, INDIA
INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED ON MARCH 31, 2019 (Amount - Rs.) Schedule Current Year Previous Year 2018·2019 2017-2018 (Al INCOME Income from Sales/Services 12 - - Grants/Subsidies 13 12,14,65,121.57 15,50,32,139.41 Fees/Subscriptions 14 11,970.00 31,210.00 Income from Investments 15 - - Income from Royalty, Publications etc. 16 36,92,918.00 28,76,300.00 Bank Interest earned 17 29,22,419.00 25, 14,406.00 Other Income 18 710.00 2,930.00 lncrease/(decrease) in stock of Finished Goods and Work-in-oroaess) 19 (60,258.00) - Total (Al 12,80,32,880.57 16.04,56.985.41 CB) EXPENDITURE Establishment Expenses - Salary General 20 1,56,78,282.72 1,35,13,017.00 Establishment Expenses - SC Salary 20 3,64,731.43 - Other Administrative Expenses 21 8, 16,27,579.85 11,28,86,609.00 Scheduled Tribes Sub Plan 21 67,39,022.00 - Expenditure on Grants.Subsidies etc. 22 - - Bank Charges & Interest 23 7,122.15 7,989.20 Depreciation (Net total at the year end - 51,79,862.36 53,96,318.00 corresponding to Schedule 8) Total (Bl 10,95,96,600.51 13, 18,03,933.20 Balance being excess of Income over Expenditure (A-B) 1,84,36,280.06 2,86,53,052.21 Transfer to Special Reserves - - Transfer to General Reserve - - Balance being Surplus (Deficit) 1,84,36,280.06 2,86,53,052.21 Significant Accounting Policies 24 Contingent Liabilities and Notes on Accounts 25 t7 �� �-"-, �11)-h � (A. K. Srivastava) ' �� (Satya Deo) (B. Ramakrishnan) Dy. Executive Secretary Executive Secretary General Secret�ry� Treasurer Exe�utive Secretary GeneralSecretary Treasurer 0y.Executlve� NA.SI, Prayagta.J NASI, Prayagraj NASI, Prayagraj NASI, Prayagraj
Place: Prayagraj Date: July 27, 2019 THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, INDIA
RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED ON MARCH 31, 2019 (Amount.Rs.)
RECEIPTS Current Year Prevlou1 YHr PAYMENTS Current Year Previous Year 2018-2019 2017-2018 2018-2019 2017-2018
I, �1olo11 ll1l111HI I EXPfflJII a) Cash In Hand . . •I EstabllshmentExptn111 1,56, 78,282.72 1,35, 13,017.00 b) Bank Balances (conesponding to Scheduled 20) I) In Cunent accounts . . ii) In Deposit acccunts 20,95,38,314.00 13,78,71,008.00 SC Salaries 3,64,731.43 Ii) In Savings accounts 4,11,15,534.72 1,99,86,908.82 (conesponding to Scheduled20)
IIQADII 8•G11Ytd b) Admlnlatrallv• ExpenHI 8,41, 11,256.23 8,68,00,286.00 a) From Govt. of India 17,39,08,000.00 (conesponcllng lo Scheduled21) OST, New Delhi 18,61,88,000.00 ICMR, New Deihl 12,00,000.00 Scheduled TrlbH Sub Plan 67,39,022.00 b) FltllllState Govemmenl . 1,41,00,000.00 (conespondlng to Scheduled21) c) From olhersources (details) MAHYCO.Mumbal 5,00,000.00 H, l!llaJ!IDIImllll 111111111f1111!11 . . forYlrf PUIProltcts Ill,1u,11m1110 1um1m11111 lll!m; a) Earmar1ced / Endowment Funds 86,85,889.00 1,06,73,740.00 Ill, IDUllmlDIIID!I !1111111111m1!11 b) OwnFunds (Otherinvestments) . . a) Out of Earmari Total 43 29 13 105.72 36 42 54589.82 Total 43 29 13,105.72 364254589.82 � Subjectto our report o! enpa Place:Praya" �� Q;'� �a�r NM Dale: July 27, 2019 Dy. Executive Secretary E�ecutive Saaelary Gen�l_Sifqiitary � �- reta �r ExeaattveSecretarr� nenu � 9: Dy. ExecutiveSec� NASl, Prayagraj NASI, Prayagraj ASI, PrayagraJ NASI,PrayagraJ Annexure IV 1 Chapters of the Academy As the report is given on the websites of NASI; therefore, the picturesque view (only) of corresponding activities, are given below- 1. Ahmedabad Chapter First meeting of the Reconstituted Ahmedabad local chapter of NASI was held on 30th March, 2019 at Physical Research Laboratory (PRL). The program is chaired by Dr. Anil Bhardwaj 2. Bangalore Chapter 3. Bangalore Chapter Prof. Jayant Haritsa, IISc, Dr. Kota Harinarayana, DRDO, Dr. Ravi Subrahmanyan, Raman Research Institute, Prof. K. S. Narayan, JNCASR and Prof. Giridhar Madra, IISc giving plenary lectures on Biotechnology for Gold Relevance to Karnataka 2 Prof. Ashok Misra, Chairman, NASI Bangalore Chapter gave the inaugural address on “Innovation in Science and Engineering” on February 25-28, 2019 along with six fellows of NASI Prof. Ashok Misra, Prof. Jayant Haritsa, Dr. Kota Harinarayana, Dr. Ravi Subrahmanyan, Prof. K. S. Narayan, Prof. Giridhar Madra, Dr. Bharat Mohan, Dr. Anshuman Jyothy Das Labby and Prof. P. N. Rangarajan attending the seminar on “Innovation in Science and Engineering” from February 25-28, 2019 at Sir M. Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology, Bangalore 3 Prof. Ashok Misra highlighting the main objective Prof. Anil Kakodkar delivering the lecture in NASI- MVIT of the seminar four day national seminar 3. Bhopal Chapter National SeminarNational on Seminar “Climate on change “Climate and change its impact and onits impactenvironment on environment in Indian perspective”in Indian perspective” was held on was April held 6 -on7, 2018 organisedApril by NASI 6-7, BER2018 Chapterorganised and by DepartmentNASI BER Chapterof Environmental and Department Science. of Prof.Environmental R.M. Mishra, Science. Ex-Vice Prof. Chancellor, R.M. Mishra, Ex-ViceA.P.S. Chancellor, University A.P.S.Rewa wasUniversity the Chief Rewa Guest was of the the Chief programme. Guest of the programme. NASI BER Chapter and Environment & Social Welfare Society, Khajuraho (M.P.) organised National conference on “Heritage conservation and natural resource management” on 30-31 January, 2019. The Chief Guest Shri Swapnil Wankhade, Sub Divisional Magistrate, Rajnagar, Retd. Commander Dr. Bhushan Dewan, Mumbai, Dr. Sambath ZSI, Jabalpur were the special guest. Dr. Nandita Pathak, Social Entrepreneur, Founder Director Udyamita Vidyapeeth J.P Foundation was the key note speaker of the session. 4 [Type a quote from the document or the summary of an interesting point. You can position the text box anywhere in the document. Use the Drawing Tools tab to change the formatting of the pull quote text box.] NASI BER Chapter and Arogyadham, Deendayal Research Institute, Chitrakoot (M.P.) organised National seminar on “Recent advances in herbal/Ayurvedic medicines-from source to manufacturing" 25-26th February 2019 sponsored by the Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India. The Chief guest was Prof. Yogesh Chandra Dubey, Vice Chancellor JHRU Chitrakoot, whereas Dr. Anil Mangal, Scientific officer-Ayurveda, CCRAS, New Delhi, Dr. Sharad Shrivastav, Principal Scientist, Pharmacognosy Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow (U.P.), Dr. Shastri Prasad Shukla, Professor, Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture & Environment Sciences, Adigrat University, Adigrat Ethiopia (Africa) and Dr. Nitin Rai, Scientific Officer Pharmacognosy, PCIM & H, PLIM Campus, Ghaziabad were the special guest and eminent speakers of the seminar. NASI BER Chapter and Govt. College Rehti District Sehore organised National Seminar on “Role and challenges to science, humanities and management in rural development” on 27 February, 2019 sponsored by MPCST, Bhopal. The National Conference was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Honorable Prof. K.B. Pandeya, Senior Fellow member NASI & Ex. Vice-Chancellor, MGCGVV Chitrakoot, Special guests were Dr. Puneet Gandhi, Head BHMRC, Bhopal and Mr. Ajay Pandey Sabarmati, Ahemadabad (Gujarat), whereas Smt. Anjali Garhwal, Principal, Govt. College Rehti presided over the function The Health and wellness club of Mata Gujri Women's College (run by the Department of Zoology) in coordination with NASI-BER Chapter organized “International Women‟s day on March 8th 2019”. The guests were honoured by Dr. V.K Saluja, Principal, Mata Gujri Mahila Mahavidyalaya Jabalpur. Dr. N. Singhai was The Health and wellness club of Mata Gujri Women'sthe keynote College speaker (run by the Department of Zoology) in coordination with NASI-BER Chapter organized “International Women‟s day on March 8th 2019”. The guests were honoured by Dr. V.K Saluja, Principal, Mata Gujri Mahila Mahavidyalaya Jabalpur. Dr. N. Singhai was the keynote speaker. 5 BER Chapter organized NASI science lecture on “Role of microbes in climate change” at the Department of Botany, Govt. P.G. Autonomous College Satna on 7th April 2018. The keynote speaker of the session is Prof. Anil Prakash, Head, Department of Biotechnology, Baraktullah Vishwavidayalaya, Bhopal (M.P.) and Prof. Arvind Deshmukh, Director, Microbiologist Society of India. Popular Science lecture on "Biodiversity conservation and sustainable development” delivered by Dr. Arun Kher, Professor & Head, Botany Department, Govt. Science College, Indore and Dr. G.P. Richhariya, Dean, Life Science, A.K.S University, Satna (M.P.) at Botany and Biotechnology departments, Govt. Autonomous College Satna (M.P.) on 12th July 2018. “Hands on Training” was organised by Dept. of Zoology, Govt. Autonomous College, Satna (M.P.) on 17 July 2018. The practical training was delivered by senior zoologist Dr. Annis Siddiqui, Principal, Govt. College Badnagar, Ujjain and Dr. A.P. Mishra, Ex. Principal, Govt. T.R.S. College Rewa (M.P.). All M.Sc. Zoology students were present and actively participated in practical sessions. 6 On the occasion of Science Day (28th Feb. 2019), Department of Zoology, Chandrashekhar Ajad Govt. P.G. College, Sehore (M.P.) organized a popular lecture on "Organic farming-A way for climate change and global warming mitigation along with rural livelihood generation". Dr. Sadhana Chaurasia, Ms. Namrata Dwivedi, Ms. Geeta Patel and Ms. Jyotsana Pathak of Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna participated in the International Women‟s Day Progamme on Women in Science and Science for Women at Prayagraj on 8-9th March 2019” along with Secretary of the Chapter. 4. Chennai Chapter Dr. Sadhana Chaurasia, Ms. Namrata Dwivedi, Ms. Geeta Patel and Ms. Jyotsana Pathak of Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna participated in the International Women‟s Day Progamme on Women in Science and Science for Women at Prayagraj on 8-9th March 2019” along with Secretary of the Chapter. 4. Chennai Chapter 5. Delhi Chapter Chennai Chapter organized two-days programme on Meghnad Saha at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences on 3rd and 4th January 2019. Dr. Ratnashree (Director, Delhi Planetarium) was the keynote speaker of the programme. 7 5. Delhi Chapter NASI Delhi Chapter in collaboration with IIT Delhi Student Chapter of the OSA celebrated the NASI Delhi Chapter organized „Dr. V P Sharma Memorial International Day of Light on May 16, 2018 at IIT Lecture‟ at NII, New Delhi. The Memorial Lecture (on Drug Delhi. It was coordinated by Dr. Anurag Sharma. Discovery: NME Translation from Synthesis to Clinical Use of Drug) was delivered by Dr. V P Kamboj on 28th August 2018. The 60 page booklet describing the activities of the NASI Delhi Chapter during 2008-2018; the booklet was released on August 28, 2018. 8 On September 15, 2018, NASI Delhi Chapter, in collaboration with JIIT (Jaypee Institute of Information Technology), Noida, organized a 1-day seminar on Life and Works of Prof. M.N. Saha and Prof. S.N. Bose to celebrate 125th birth anniversary of Prof. Saha and Prof. S.N. Bose L to R: The banner for the event. Dr. S.K. Joshi and Dr.Sanghamitra Saha lighting the lamp. L to R: Dr. Anirban Pathak felicitating Dr. Partha Ghose, Dr Narayan Banerjee and Dr Niraj Kumar speaking at the event. On October 24-29, 2018 NASI Delhi Chapter, in collaboration with Science Foundation Committee, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (DDU) College, organized an outreach program. About 160 Class X students and 5 teachers of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sector-12, Dwarka attended the Outreach Program during October 24-29, 2018. Dr Manoj Saxena, who coordinated the program, is at the extreme right and Dr. Ajoy Ghatak is standing on top of the stairs. 9 On February 5, 2019, NASI Delhi Chapter, in collaboration with Rajdhani College, organized a lecture program to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Ba and Bapu. Dr. Ajoy Ghatak briefly spoke about NASI and also about the 150th birth anniversary celebration of Ba and Bapu. Dr. Anurag Sharma, Dr. Pradeep Gupta being felicitated by Dr. Mano. Resource persons, students and teachers who participated in the 2- days seminar on Quantum Mechanics at St. John‟s College, Agra. 10 6. Jaipur Chapter Jaipur Chapter organized a special lecture on 18th March 2019 in the college campus on “Lifestyle and Reproductive Health”. The keynote speaker was Prof. N.K. Lohiya, NASI Senior Scientist and presiding guest was Prof. H.N. Verma. (a)Prof. K.B. Sharma, Principal, S.S. Jain Subodh College, delivered a Welcome Address and introduced audience with the distinguished Guests. (b) Prof. H.N. Verma, President of NASI, Rajasthan/Jaipur Chapter and Vice-Chancellor, Jaipur National University, Jaipur addressed the audience and apprised about NASI Rajasthan/Jaipur Chapter. Prof. N.K. Lohiya enlightened the gathering by his valuable, informative and knowledgeable lecture. 11 Prof. H.N. Verma on behalf of the NASI Rajasthan/Jaipur Chapter felicitated Prof. K.B. Sharma for the successful organization of the Seminar and Dr. Richa Sharma, S.S. Jain Subodh College, Jaipur presenting memento to the Guest 7. Jammu Chapter (including Jammu & Kashmir) 12 On July 20–24, 2018: A team comprising Dr. R.N. Gohil, Drs. Harish K. Dutt, Amjad and Sonam, accompanied by eight students of the Govt. Degree College, Kargil surveyed the tribal areas (17 villages) of Chiktan and Batalik sectors of Leh and Kargil districts (8809-13985 ft. height) , interacting with locals at Hambuting la (13348 ft.) and Darchik (9190 ft.). Certificates of appreciation were given to all the team members. Jammu Chapter on October 09, 2018 organized a function at the Centre for Biodiversity Studies, BGSB University, Rajouri to commemorate the 150 anniversary of Ba and Bapu 8. Jharkhand Chapter In association with CSIR NML and Rajendra Vidyalya, Jharkhand State Chapter of The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) has organized first Prof. Meghnad Saha Memorial Science Exhibition on September 15, 2018 and students also demonstrating scientific models & presenting new ideas. 13 On 125th birth anniversary of Prof. Meghnad Saha, founder President of NASI, the Jharkhand Chapter in association with CSIR NML celebrated the life and teachings of Prof. Saha by organizing Prof. Meghnad Saha Memorial Lecture at CSIR NML on Oct 6, 2018. Prof. Sankar Pal, former Director of ISI Kolkata was the Chief Guest of the function. The Jharkhand Chapter of the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) jointly with CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur celebrated the National Science Day on 28th February 2019 with great pomp and show. Dr. D. P. Duari, Director, M. P. Birla Institute of Fundamental Sciences & M. P. Birla Planetarium, Kolkata was the Chief Guest of the function. 9. Kolkata Chapter Celebration of the World Environment Day 2018 at Binodini Girls‟ High School. The speaker Prof. Pulak Sengupta (Sitting on second position from left) along with other dignitaries. 14 NASI-Local Chapter Kolkata celebrated the 125th Birth Anniversary of Prof. Meghnad Saha, a legendary physicist. Dr. Duari is handing over the certificate to a participant at Baranagar Sree Sree Ramkrishna Vidyapith, Kolkata on November 15, 2018. The Local Chapter also organized a programme on Observance of World Water Day-2019 on March 29, 2019 at Sarat Chandra Sur Institution, Kolkata. Theme of the program was Leaving No One Behind. Three distinguished Speakers delivered lectures on this occasion. High school students (class IX to XII) from ten different Bengali medium Government schools along with their teachers participated in the Observance of World Water Day-2019, on March 29, 2019. 10. Lucknow Chapter 15 Prof. N.R. Dhar Memorial Award Lecture – Presence of the distinguished guests. Inauguration of the event by lighting of lamp by Dr. Madhu Dikshit and Prof. V.P. Kamboj. Prof. V.P. Kamboj highlighting the special insight of the award programme. Dr. Madhu Dikshit delivering the “Prof. N. R. Dhar Memorial Award Lecture”.Felicitation of the awardee by Prof. V.P. Kamboj, Prof. Promod Tandon and Dr. W. Haq. Celebration of the 125th Birth Anniversary of Prof. Meghnad Saha by the NASI- Lucknow Chapter at Biotech Park on 9th April 2019, Lucknow. Group photographs of the event 11. Mumbai Chapter NASI-MC organized The National Technology Day-2018 on May 11, 2018. Event hosted by Pillai College of Engineering, Panvel, Raigadh, with NASI President Dr. Anil Kakodkar and Dr. R. Chidambaram, Former Principal Scientific Advisor and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission, Scientific Advisor and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission, Government of India as the Chief Guest . 16 Symposium and Research Scholars‟ Meet held on February 22-23, 2019 (Venue: Uka Tarsadia University, Bardoli) 12. North-Eastern Region Chapter NASI NER Chapter commemorated the International day for Biodiversity on 22nd May 2018 in the premises of Shillong Public School, Programme at St. Anthony`s College NASI NER Chapter organized two talks on which the first part at NEHU was on “Antibodies: the mystery deepens hundred years on?” which was followed by “Higher Education and Research Opportunities in EU and France”. 17 NASI NER Chapter organized a popular talk on Health, Sanitation, water and antibiotic resistance emerging in the waterborne pathogens on 11th December 2018 sponsored by the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) NER Chapter in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology, Shillong College, Shillong. Dr. Mark A. Toleman from the Medical Microbiology division of Cardiff University, UK was the resource person. NASI NER Chapter commemorated the 150th Anniversary of Ba & Bapu by organizing a programme on 24th November 2018 organized by NASI NER Chapter in collaboration with St. Edmund`s College, Shillong. Dr. Biman Mandal (NASI Awardee), Associate Professor and NASI Scopus Young Scientist Awardee was the speaker of the session. NASI NER Chapter commemorated the 125th birth anniversary of the founder of NASI, Allahabad, Prof. Meghnad Saha by organizing a memorial lecture at the conference hall of St. Edmund`s College, Shillong on 16th November 2018. 18 The participants were then shown the various stages through which the preparation of mushroom beds are NASI NER Chapter conducted a Demonstration–Cum- Training on Vermicomposting from 30th July 2018. carried out and how the spawn is inoculated in the Farmers at the programme straw beds, at the mushroom cultivation hut. NASI NER Chapter conducted a Demonstration–Cum-Training on “Fish Farming for Livelihood” organized at St. Anthony`s College, Shillong from 29th November 2018. Mr. Mansan Rynghang from NEHU Shillong did the interpretation of the proceedings in the local language for the benefit of the farmers. Demonstration of Fish Farming. 19 One day programme to observe “Swasth Bharat Abhiyan” was organized among the students of Bellfonte Community Centre on 30 November 2018. Prof. S.R. Joshi, Secretary, Local Chapter presented a talk on healthy living and good health which was interpreted in the local language by Dr. Macmillan Nongkhlaw. Participants at the programme. NASI NER Chapter conducted a Demonstration–Cum-Training on Mushroom Cultivation: 1st Phase from 3rd August 2018. Farmers at the mushroom production farm at ICAR. 20 13. Odisha Chapter The Odisha Chapter was launched on February 11, 2019 at the Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar by Dr. Manju Ravenshaw University (Department of Mathematics) organized a Sharma in the presence of a large number of NASI fellows Lecture Workshop on “Mathematical Modeling of Extreme and a large number of scientists and students from Weather Events over India” under the Science Academies‟ institutions and universities of Odisha. Dr. Niraj Kumar, Education Programme during February 22-24, 2019. Prof. U.C. Executive Secretary, NASI highlighted the activities of Mohanty, FASc, FNA, FNASc, FNAE was the Convener of the NASI and hoped that the Local Chapter will be undertaking activities of relevance for meeting societal Workshop. needs. NASI also organized a state level consultation on “Women in Science” in commemoration of International Women‟s Day on March 8, 2019 at Bhubaneswar. 14. Patna Chapter Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Technology, Patna in association with The National Academy of Sciences, (Left to Right) Dr. Niraj Kumar, Dr. Amit India (NASI) & The Indian Mathematics Consortium organized Kumar Verma, Dr. Satya Deo, Dr. N. S. N. a three-days Workshop on Coxeter Groups which was held in Sastry, Dr. Ritumoni Sharma the Department of Mathematics, IIT Patna during December Lightening of Lamp. 17-19, 2018. 21 Dr. Ritumoni Sarma (IIT Delhi) started his talk on finite reflection groups and later Prof. N.S.N. Sastry (ex Professor ISI Bangalore and Professor IIT Dharwad) started his lectures on Coxeter groups. Prof. Satya Deo felicitating the speaker of the session Dr. Sarma and Prof. Sastry were requested to say few words and they obliged by highlighting the importance of the topics covered in the program along with suggestions for future directions. NASI Patna Chapter organized ‘Bihar Earth Day’, a one day symposium on the topic ‘The role of women in earth prevention’ at Bankipur Girls High School Patna on 10.08.2018. The session was chaired by Dr. Pradeep Das, the Chairman, Patna Chapter NASI. The guests present on the dais were honored with the saplings of plants. 22 15. Pune Chapter Prof. Dilip D. Dhavale, Head, NASI Western Prof. S.A. Katre, Coordinator, Welcoming the participants Region speaking to the audience in the in the NASI-TMC Workshop on Ancient Mathematics. Inauguration Function in WAIM, SPPU. Others: Dr. S. S. Katre, Prof. D. D. Dhavale (Head, Western Region, NASI), Prof. Nitin Karmalkar, Hon‟ble Vice-Chancellor, SPPU, Prof. Saroja Bhate (Speaker). First Lecture by Prof. Saroja Bhate (Former HoD, Hon‟ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nitin Karmalkar Sanskrit Prakrit, SPPU ) on Ganitpad of Aryabhata. Inaugurating the Workshop on Ancient Indian Mathematics. Valedictory Function: Speaker Dr. Venketeswara Pai being felicitated by Prof. Vilas Kharat (HoD, Co-Coordinator and Speaker Dr. Mugdha Gadgil (L) and Co- Maths, SPPU ) Others: Dr. S.S. Katre, Dr. V.V. Coordinator Dr. Ganesh Kadu (R) being felicitated by Dr. Shailaja Acharya, Prof. M.S. Sriram (Main Speaker). Katre ( HoD, Sankrit-Prakrit Dept., SPPU). 23 16. Uttarakhand At the prelude of the NASI, Planetary Lecture was delivered by Dr. Sanjeev Mishra, Director AIIMS, Jodhpur Rajasthan on the topic “Health Care in India - Current scenario, challenges, priorities and way forward” held on 26th February, 2019 at UCOST, Dehradun. 13th SCIENCE CONGRESS-2019 24 13th Uttarakhand Science Congress was jointly organized by Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) & NASI UK Chapter during 26-28 February, 2019 at Vigyan Dham, Jhajra, Dehradun. Chief Minister, Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat inaugurated 13th Uttarakhand State Science and Technology Congress 2018-19 by lightning the lamp. 13th Uttarakhand Science Congress was jointly organized by Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) & NASI UK Chapter during 26-28 February, 2019 at Vigyan Dham, Jhajra, Dehradun. Chief Minister, Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat inaugurated 13th Uttarakhand State Science and Technology Congress 2018-19 by lightning the lamp. 25 National Science Day-19 was jointly organized by Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) & NASI UK chapter on 28th February, 2019. On the occasion of National Science Day, the distinguished speaker for the session Shri Hem Kumar Pandey (Retd. IAS). National Technology Day 2018 was jointly organized by Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) & NASI UK Chapter on 11th May, 2018. On this occasion of National Technology Day 2018, a popular lecture on theme ‘Science & Technology for Sustainable Future’. Speaker of event were Dr. V.C. Goyal, Scientist- G, National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), Roorkee and Dr. Naveen K. Nawani, Associate Professor (Biotechnology Department), IIT, Roorkee. It was an interactive and informative lecture. Scientist, academic persons and students were also invited for the event. 26 A one day IPR awareness programme was organized on the occasion of World IP Day 2018, on 26th April, by the Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) at Vigyan Dham. Chief Guest, Dr. Alaknanda Ashok, Director, Women Institute of Technology, UTU, Dehradun RSC Dehradun celebrated World Environment Day – 2018 on the theme, “Beats Plastic Pollution” on 5th June, 2018 The „Earth Day‟ is an annual celebration in honour of Earth, environment and her species every year on April 22. RSC Dehradun celebrated the Earth Day among general visitors and school groups on the day of their visit during 20-22 April, 2018. 27 International Science Center and Science Museum Day (ISCSMD-2018) on the theme “Science as a Human Right” was celebrated at RSC Dehradun. Center organized an interactive lecture on “Community & Individual involvement to take action on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDG)” and open house quiz. On 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, RSC Dehradun celebrated Gandhi Jayanti lectured on “Thoughts of Gandhi Ji on Education” and Science Demonstrations were organized by the Innovation Hub. Lecture on Alpine ecosystem and climate change was Popular lecture was held in the Vigyan Dham on 11th delivered by a Prof. Juha M . Alatalo, Qatar University, August, 2018 in the joint working of Uttarakhand State Science and Technology Council (UK), Dehradun and Qatar on 10th April, 2018 at Uttarakhand State Council National Science Academy, India, Uttarakhand Chapter, for Science and Technology VigyanDham, Jhajra and the event coordinated by Dr. D.P. Uniyal, Senior Scientific Officer and Coordinator of NASI-UK Chapter, UCOST 28 Two Days NASI Workshop on ” Sensitization and Awareness workshop of Science and Technology for the development of Tribes of Uttarakhand” jointly Organized by UCOST and NASI UK Chapter on 27th-28th June at Chakrata, Dehradun. 26th State Level Children Science Congress-2018 on focal theme, “Science, Technology & Innovation for a Clean, Green and Healthy Nation” was organized at Vigyan Dham on 15th December. Inaugural and Valedictory sessions were organized at RSC Dehradun, while technical sessions at UCOST headquarters. 29 The National Academy of Sciences (NASI) UK-Chapter Annual meeting held on 11th February, 2019 at UCOST. Eminent Personality of Prof. A.N Purohit, Former VC, HNBGU Srinagar, Chairman of NASI UK Chapter, Dr. Rajendra Dobhal, Secretary NASI UK Chapter/Director General UCOST, Dr. B.R. Arora, Foremer Director Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun, Dr. D.P Uniyal, Coordinator & Co-opted Member NASI UK Chapter were present in the meeting The National Academy of Sciences (NASI), Uttarakhand Chapter and Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology every year facilitate Best Science Teacher Award. NASI Best Teacher Awards nominations were invited through advertisement published in different newspaper by UCOST, Dehradun on dated 06 December, 2018. Dr. Mamta, LT (Science), Inter College Uttrauda, Kapkote was awarded as NASI Best Science Teacher Award 2018 30 PUBLICATIONS: 31 17. Varanasi Chapter Oral Competition for School Students was also organized on 28th October, 2019 to test the presentation skill of school students on the theme “Brain, behavior and environment” for class XII from 17 schools of Varanasi. Based on the content and quality, seven were selected for prizes from Sunbeam Mughalsarai, DPS Kashi, KV DLW, UP Public School, St. Xaviers, Little Flower House and WH Smith Memorial School. Students Neuroscience meet was organized on 28th Oct, 2018 at NASI Varanasi Chapter. Lecture on “Ba and Bapu” was organized on 28th January, 2019 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatama Gandhiji. Prof. Anand Kumar, Centre of Studies on Social Systems, School of Social Sciences, JNU, New Delhi delivered the lecture and narrated the importance of Gandhian thoughts in present day. 32 A one-day workshop entitled “Sustainable Utilization of Wild Edibles for the Food and Nutritional Security of Tribal Women” was organized on 17th March 2019 at the Seminar Hall of Krishak P.G. College, Rajgarh, Mirzapur district of eastern UP. Prof. Madhoolika Agarwal intracting with women participants. On the occasion of 125th birth anniversary year of Professor Meghnad Saha, the Founder of NASI, a lecture entitled “Granular Mining in Video Analytics” was delivered by Professor Sankar Kumar Pal, Distinguished Scientist and Former Director of Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata at Department of Physics, BHU. Prof. O.N. Srivastava lecture on “Granular Mining in Video Analytics” 33