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English is a language, which is spoken by numerous people across the world. It has acquired a prominent place in meeting the communicational needs of the people. Grammar is a set of rules that helps the people to use the language better. In schools, the teachers of English are considered as the most important factor in making the study of English Grammar successfully. We all know the teachers are experts in their subjects, but faces problems while teaching, because of the overcrowded classroom and heterogeneous group of students. This problem can be overcome by the application of innovative teaching technology. The most striking innovation in the field of educational technology is the application of Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) in different mode. It makes the children more creative and providing them with an individualized environment. One of the most vital developments in school system is to meet the individual difference among the learners in a satisfying way. Considering the above, the investigators have developed and standardized a CAI package using Macromedia Flash 8 software for learning English Grammar-Voice for Eighth standard students. The selected content Active and Passive Voice is one among the important section in English Grammar. In this study, the quasi-experimental within and between the group pre-test and post-test design was adopted by the investigators. The investigators have undertaken the experimental study on 89 Eighth standard students of three matriculation schools in Mecheri taluk in Salem. The identified students are allotted randomly for two groups such as control group and experimental group. Pre-test and Post-test were conducted for both the groups. Test of significance difference (t-test) is employed for analyzing the data. The study proves that the learning outcome through CAI is higher than the conventional method. The present study clearly demonstrates that the CAI as individualized self-instructional strategy could be employed for learning English Grammar-Voice in the place of conventional instructional situation.

Fusarium dieback is a prevalent disease of tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) in India and China. The pathogen affects plucking shoots and causes complete crop loss under favourable conditions. Although, other fungal diseases that infect tea were widely explored for pathogen identification and characterization, little is known about Fusarium dieback in major tea growing regions of India. Therefore, in this study 24 isolates of Fusarium species causing dieback on tea in 24 tea gardens of Assam and North Bengal were isolated and characterized through micro-morphological and molecular analysis using multi-locus DNA sequences to determine whether multiple species of Fusarium are responsible for dieback disease. Molecular analysis revealed the association of four species of Fusarium , namely F. concentricum, F. solani, F. fujikuroi, and F. oxysporum. The most dominant species was F. concentricum (62.5%), whereas the occurrence frequencies of F. solani, F. fujikuroi, and F. oxysporum were 20.8%, 12.5%, and 0.04%, respectively. All Fusarium isolates were pathogenic to tea leaves when individually and co-inoculated, with F. concentricum HPE0F10 and NHT0F17 exhibiting 19.3 mm lesion length being the most virulent isolates. The growth rate of the pathogen was positively correlated with lesion lengths (P < 0.001). Co-infection of two or multiple Fusarium species enhanced the disease severity and quicker disease development compared to single inoculation. All the isolates showed diverse genetic backgrounds based on Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) primers and principal coordinate analysis. In fungicide screening test, all isolates except HPE0F10, NDS0F18, and SNY0F22 were insensitive to M1 fungicide (copper oxychloride). Isolates GNP0F8 and LKW0F16 were insensitive to MBC + M3 (Carbendazim + Mancozeb), whereas HPE0F10, NLG0F11, IND0F13, and NLW0F19 were insensitive to DMI (respective each two to Hexaconazole and Valextra) fungicides. Notably, all the isolates were susceptible to propiconazole. Further, ISSR segregated isolates insensitive to MBC + M3 and M1 fungicides into two separate clusters, representing their distinctiveness. The fungicide screening results indicate that fungicide resistance can be managed by rotating different modes of action of fungicides against multiple Fusarium species causing tea dieback. • Fusarium concentricum, F. fujikuroi, F. oxysporum, and F. solani were identified as causal agents of tea dieback. • The identification was confirmed by multi-locus phylogenetic analysis. • Fusarium isolates showed variable pathogenicity through individual and co-inoculation tests. • ISSR primers revealed diverse genetic backgrounds among 24 Fusarium isolates. • Propiconazole was effective against all Fusarium isolates tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency of extreme rainfall events in India has increased substantially during the recent decades, causing increased risk of inland flooding. This study investigated the impact and role of four different cumulus parameterization schemes (CPSs) in simulating heavy rainfall events (HRE) over Tamil Nadu State that occurred on 01 December 2015 with five different time step sizes (TSSs) using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. Numerical simulations were carried out using a 3-km horizontal grid resolution with relevant forcing parameters from NCEP Global Forecasting System (GFS) datasets. The rainfall data were obtained from the Chennai Doppler Weather Radar station and two automated weather stations (AWS) located at the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM 13.01° N, 80.23° E) and Madhavaram AWS (13.2° N, 80.2° E), respectively. The results indicate that simulated HRE using the WRF model is more sensitive to the choice of CPS at different TSS. It is seen that with an increase in TSS, the Kain–Fritsch (KF) scheme over-predicts HRE, while the Grell–Freitas (GF) convection scheme provides reasonably better prediction at 20 s TSS. The results clearly demonstrate that TSS is more sensitive to HRE forecasts in the WRF model, and the corresponding probability of detection (POD), critical success index (CSI) and bias varied from 0 to 81% as TSS increased from 6.67 to 20 s. Also, this study clearly reveals that TSS is very sensitive to the model CPSs in HRE forecasting. Variations attributed to TSS and CPS are reflected not only in rainfall magnitude but also in terms of rainfall location pattern, and depend on changes in simulated distribution of hydrometers, rate of latent heat, vertical velocity and wind flow patterns. Statistical analysis was also carried out to verify model-computed HRE forecasts against the data from two automatic weather stations (AWS). This study indicates that the correlation coefficient (CC) was very good, while the root mean square error (RMSE) was smaller for simulations that used high TSS with simplified Arakawa–Schubert (SAS) and GF CPSs. Numerical simulations that employed KF with high TSS showed a higher intensity in the rainfall forecast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has a wide range of pathophysiological effects. Curcumin, an active constituent of Curcuma longa (turmeric), has several properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-thrombotic, and anti-proliferative effects, which make it a promising candidate for the symptomatic treatment of COVID-19. Objective: We aimed to determine the effects of curcumin administered with piperine (to optimize absorption) on symptoms in patients with COVID-19 in a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial at a 30-bed dedicated COVID Health Center (DCHC) in Maharashtra, India. Methods: In addition to conventional COVID-19 treatment, patients in the control group received a dose of probiotics twice a day, and patients in the study group received curcumin (525 mg) with piperine (2.5 mg) in tablet form twice a day. The effects of curcumin/piperine treatment on primary and secondary outcomes were assessed for the duration of hospitalization. Results: Patients with mild, moderate, and severe symptoms who received curcumin/piperine treatment showed early symptomatic recovery (fever, cough, sore throat, and breathlessness), less deterioration, fewer red flag signs, better ability to maintain oxygen saturation above 94% on room air, and better clinical outcomes compared to patients of the control group. Furthermore, curcumin/piperine treatment appeared to reduce the duration of hospitalization in patients with moderate to severe symptoms, and fewer deaths were observed in the curcumin/piperine treatment group. Conclusions: Administration of oral curcumin with piperine as an adjuvant symptomatic therapy in COVID-19 treatment could substantially reduce morbidity and mortality, and ease the logistical and supply-related burdens on the healthcare system. Curcumin could be a safe and natural therapeutic option to prevent Post-Covid thromboembolic events. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: CTRI/2020/05/025482 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming-induced climate change affects the coastal regions diversely leading to warmer oceans, rise in sea level, aggravating storm patterns, inundations, increasing precipitations and salinization. This study focusses to explore the livelihood as well as the vulnerability status of the marine fishing spatial units in Sindhudurg Coastal and Marine Ecosystem (SCME) area, west coast of India. The focus was to develop a composite index, namely, Sustainable Fisheries Livelihood Index (SFLI) comprising five capitals, which acts as a tool to evaluate the livelihood status of the fishing communities and also a coastal vulnerability (Cumulative Vulnerability Index-CVI) framework from an earlier assessment was used. The livelihood and vulnerability indices were integrated to arrive at a decision-making matrix to identify and propose suitable interventions for appropriate climate adaptation strategies and achieving sustainable fisheries livelihood. In the present study, SCME was found to have a low SFLI value (0.36). Among the three taluks in SCME, Malvan taluk had comparatively higher SFLI (0.46) than Vengurla (0.34) and Devgad (0.29) taluks. Based on cumulative vulnerability indices, the majority of marine fishing spatial units (i.e. 58.3% after combining high and very high CVI ranges) in SCME were found to face severe vulnerability. These spatial units, plotted using CVI versus SFLI in the four quadrants of decision matrix, were analyzed for management interventions with strategies aimed at reducing the vulnerability and improve the adaptive capacity of fishing communities to achieve sustainable livelihoods. Spatial units in Quadrant IV were preferred to have focused climate change adaptation strategies to minimize vulnerability as well as to improve the fisheries livelihood sustainability by enhancing the access to livelihood capital assets. Spatial units in Quadrant I might serve as model units to demonstrate the vulnerability mitigation interventions to achieve stability and sustainability of livelihoods. Appropriate interventions for climate change adaptation such as diversification of fishing, selection of appropriate fishing gears, regulation of fishing effort, diversification of livelihoods and adoption of ecosystem approach to fisheries management (EAFM) have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), an autoimmune disorder, has ascended considerably with around 98,200 and 15,900 incidents in children below 15 years of age, glob-ally and in India, respectively. This is typically due to environmental changes leading to genetic modifications. Also, T1DM encompasses the presence of autoantigens and many other etiologies which can be targeted by proper immunization. In this paper, we consciously discuss and collate various candidate triggers of islet autoimmunity and other factors expected to promote progression of T1DM. This paper bridges all the mechanisms caused by these factors and linking them with each other. We have also highlighted on the novel corona virus as a trigger for T1DM. Finally, we suggest that an amalgamated model of polyvaccine can batter the condition by inducing protection against various triggers of T1DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied low-frequency (45 – 410 MHz) type III solar radio bursts observed using the e-Compound Astronomical Low-cost Low-frequency Instrument for Spectroscopy and Transportable Observatory (e-CALLISTO) spectrometer located at Gauribidanur Radio Observatory, India, during 2013 – 2017. After inspecting 1531 type III bursts we found that 426 bursts were associated with flares, while the others might have been triggered by small scale features/weak energy events present in the solar corona. In this study, we have carried out a statistical analysis of various observational parameters like start time, lower- and upper-frequency cut-offs of type III bursts and their association with flares, variation of such parameters with flare parameters such as location, class, onset, and peak times. From this study, we found that most of the high frequency bursts (whose upper-frequency cut-off is > 350 MHz ) originate from western longitudes. We interpret that this could be due to the fact that Parker spirals from these longitudes are directed towards the Earth and high frequency bursts are more directive. Further we report that the number of bursts that reach Earth from western longitudes is higher than from eastern longitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an economically important polyphagous pest native to the Americas. The pest has recently introduced to India and causing severe damage to maize and other crops. The occurrence of fall armyworm on fodder maize (Zea mays L), Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus) (Jacq.), para grass (Brachiaria mutica) (Forssk.) and green amaranth (Amaranthus viridis L) is reported first time from Goa, India. The damage incidence of 16 to 52% was recorded on fodder maize. The other host plants viz., Guinea grass, para grass and green amaranth recorded damage incidences of 9.0, 4.0 and 13.0%, respectively. The pest was identified based on morphological characters and molecular techniques. Phylogenetic analysis of COI gene sequence revealed that fall armyworm on fodder maize from Goa is clustering with the fall armyworm isolates from India, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Canada and Brazil. Goa isolate is aligning with the "Rice" strain of fall armyworm and not with "Corn" strain. Studies on the biology of fall armyworm indicated that longer larval and pupal developmental period (18.6 and 10.7 days) was recorded on Guinea grass and green amaranth, respectively. The highest number of eggs was recorded from fall armyworm population reared on fodder maize as compared to those reared on other host plants. Longer life cycle was recorded on Guinea grass and green amaranth. Shortest larval and pupal period and faster life cycle of fall armyworm was recorded on fodder maize compared to other host plants indicating that fodder maize was the most preferred host for S. frugiperda in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An iron sword from an Iron Age megalithic burial at Thelunganur in Tamil Nadu, India, was examined using metallographic techniques. The sword was made of ultra‐high‐carbon steel with a fairly uniform microstructure consisting primarily of fine cementite particles in a ferrite background free of notable non‐metallic inclusions. The morphological control, however, was not perfect and frequently allowed cementite to precipitate in the form of a network along austenite grain boundaries. It was also observed that carbide particles of varying size and shape often caused microscopic layers to develop, forming a visible pattern to the naked eye on the polished and etched surface of the iron sword. This pattern likely inspired the later development of various surface markings such as the damask. This paper presents a detailed account of the analytical data to show that the iron sword under consideration was an early example of high‐carbon steel employed in the manufacture of a functional object where the divorced eutectoid transformation technique, rediscovered recently, was used for the control of cementite morphology. It is also proposed that technologies for making and handling high‐carbon steel were in existence at a much earlier date than previously supposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paleoclimatic interpretation of stable isotope based proxies from India is complex due to lack of local amount effect (negative relation between rainfall and its heavy isotopic content observed over tropics) in most places. Recent studies revealed that regional or upstream rainfall/ convective activity plays a major role on daily rainfall δ18O variability. Here we extensively analyze the isotopic variability of Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) rainfall of south western peninsular India. ISM rainfall δ18O of south western coast of India show significant correlation with the upstream convective activity and the associated rainfall over eastern Arabian Sea on daily, monthly and yearly time scales. A comparative dry–wet–dry (wet–dry–wet) rainfall pattern is observed over north eastern India, peninsular India and the equatorial Indian Ocean during the occurrence of low (high) values of rainfall δ18O at south western coast of India on all time scales. Thus the ISM rainfall δ18O of south western India captures not only the local or upstream convective activities, but reflects the rainfall pattern of a large domain including the Indian subcontinent and Indian Ocean. 18O variations of climatic proxies from south western coast of India can be thus better interpreted in terms of these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural gas hydrates are considered as a strategic unconventional clean hydrocarbon resource in the energy sector. This paper analyzes the spatiotemporal effectiveness of the depressurization technique for producing methane gas from an unconfined Class 4 clayey setting in the Krishna Godavari (KG) basin, east coast of India. The production potential of a well by depressurization based on the borehole-based pumping technique is modeled using the newly developed spatiotemporal numerical tool, IndHyd 1.0, built using MATLAB for a constant borehole ΔP. The model is aided by TOUGH+HYDRATE reservoir production simulation software. From the IndHyd 1.0 simulation results, it is identified that a vertical well in the location NGHP-01-10D could have a lateral well reach, longevity, and a cumulative methane gas production potential of 145 m, 1.2 years, and ∼0.6 billion m3, respectively. For the formation with a postdissociation permeability of 200 mD, a possible scenario in the fractured settings, the well reach, longevity, and gas production potential could be 340 m, 3.6 years, and ∼9 billion m3, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to assess the recruitment rate of coral spats and other invertebrates near to the coral reef ecosystem of Gulf of Mannar. The reef region examined was at Kurusadai Reef Complex (Gulf of Mannar) for this assessment. There were two sets of invertebrate settlement tripods deployed and exposed at a depth of 2m. Seventy two settlement tiles measuring 20x20 cm in two different angles were fixed in these tripods in the benthic reef ecosystem. In order to assess the impact of Sea surface temperature on the invertebrate settlement, Onset Hobo Pendant® Temperature logger was also attached with the tripods. The sediment traps in duplicate were also erected in the study site to assess the sedimentation rate of the reef ecosystem. About 80% of recruited coral spats were observed on the tiles which were exposed at 60° angle. Principal component analysis also supported that the most influencing species were coral spats followed by barnacles and bivalves in the 60° angle exposed settlement tiles. It was also observed that the most influencing place of coral spats' recruitment was on the inner tiles. The mean sedimentation rate observed was 14.6 ± 4.8 mg.cm−2.d−1. The lower density of coral spats observed on 90° and 60° angle exposed outer tiles might be due to the observed sedimentation rate and it is believed that coral spats preferred the shaded environment initially for further perpetuation in the environment. Moreover, Bray-Curtis cluster analysis supported that the coral spats found on the inner tiles having 80% similarity in this assessment. The coral spats found in this assessment were species from Pocilloporidae and Poritidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an analysis of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) rainfall variations for a 1460-year period (1720–3180, Before Present BP: 1950 AD), based on a long record of stable isotopic variations (δ18O) with high temporal resolution (~annual) obtained from a U-Th dated stalagmite from the Kadapa cave in peninsular India. This stalagmite proxy record captures variations associated with wet and dry monsoons on decadal to centennial time-scales, together with a general declining trend in the ISM during the 1460-year period. It is noted that the declining trend of the ISM follows the northern hemispheric summer insolation, which is known to influence the location and strength of the Inter tropical convergence zone (ICTZ). The stalagmite record also indicates an abrupt climate change, characterized by the decline of ISM around 2800 yr BP, as manifested in the enrichment of 18O values. Furthermore, the enriched 18O values around 2800 yr BP are corroborated by changes in the stalagmite growth rate, its trace elemental ratios (Sr/Ca, Ba/Ca and U/Ca) and crystallographic structure. In addition, the decline of ISM around 2800 yr BP coincides with a sudden rise in the atmospheric Δ14C, indicative of reduced solar activity. This period around 2800 yr BP is widely reported as the cold European climate associated with ice debris events in the North Atlantic (also known as the Iron Age Cold Epoch), which were reportedly forced by low solar activity. Syntheses of other available stalagmite records from the Indian region, during the common time-frame, show coherent variations with the Kadapa stalagmite and also the Dongge cave stalagmite (southern China), pointing to synchronous variations of the Indian and the East Asian monsoon systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, routine childhood immunization coverage globally decreased from 86% in 2019 to 81% in 2021. In India, the impact of the pandemic and associated lockdowns on routine childhood immunization has not been adequately reported. Here, we survey the effect of the pandemic on routine childhood immunization coverage and examine delays in previously censused rural communities in Tamil Nadu, southern India. In this community-based cross-sectional study conducted in September 2021, we approached all households with children born between March 2019 and February 2021 located in two rural blocks - Jawadhu hills, a primarily tribal population, and Timiri. A structured questionnaire was administered to the parents or primary caregivers using a mobile phone-based data collection application. From the available immunization card, dates for each vaccine administered to the child were recorded and cross-verified, and caregivers were asked for reasons for delayed or missed doses of specific vaccines. Overall, 1254 and 1962 households with children in Jawadhu hills and Timiri blocks consented to participate. Coverage for all vaccines was significantly lower in the Jawadhu hills block compared to Timiri before and during the pandemic (except for OPV-0 during the pandemic). During the pandemic, vaccine coverage remained unchanged or improved for all vaccines except for measles in the Timiri site (p<0.001). During the pandemic, an increased number of delays for all vaccines was seen in Jawadhu hills, but in Timiri, only the OPV-3, pentavalent-3, and Rotavirus-3 vaccines were delayed. Perceived reasons for delays in vaccination provided by caregivers did not change during the pandemic. Routine childhood immunization coverage during the pandemic for most vaccines was comparable to the pre-pandemic period in both rural sites, but significant delays in vaccination were noted. The effect of the pandemic was primarily seen in vaccines given after three months of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to assess the health of the coastal ecosystem based on bio-physical assessment of the coral reef ecosystem at Palk Bay. A total of 11 sites along the coast from the eastern part of Rameswaram Island to Mandapam were chosen for this study. Good live coral cover (acroporid and non-acroporid corals) of 30.08 ± 6.72% was recorded in the eastern part of Rameswaram Island. Principal component analysis demonstrated that the contribution of live coral cover was closer to the selected study sites of the eastern part of Rameswaram Island. Metric multi-dimensional scaling analysis showed three major clusters with 75% similarity based on life-form categories observed in the reef ecosystem. In this study, there was a significant segregation of study sites of the eastern part of Rameswaram Island in two clusters with 80% similarity because of their richness of live coral cover. Multi-dimensional scaling based on coral species diversity showed three major clusters with 50% similarity. Principal component analysis showed that the major contribution and abundance of coral species were closer to the northern part of Rameswaram Island. Moreover, Shannon–Wiener species diversity index of this region was in the range of 1.592–1.856, which was higher than the other sites. Hence, it was observed that there is no relationship between mean live coral cover and coral species diversity index of the reef ecosystem. The impact of biological indicators such as Halimeda algae andPalythoasp. (Zoanthids) on the reef ecosystem was also analyzed. About 31 species of live corals belonging to 9 families and 18 genera were recorded during the study period. The outcome of this study helped in the understanding of the health of the ecosystem based on the intensity of mean live coral cover and coral species diversity. It also made it easier to understand the longitudinal variations and distribution pattern of coral reef community categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Good corporate governance standards are essential for the integrity of corporations, financial institutions and markets and have a bearing on the growth and stability of the economy. The new Companies Act is a major milestone in the corporate governance sphere in India and is likely to have significant impact on the governance of companies in the country. In the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the imperative for corporate governance lies not merely in having a code of corporate governance, but in practicing it. This study explored the extent of corporate governance practices being followed and reported by Indian companies in different industries and analyzed its impact on financial performance. There is a significant correlation between total corporate governance score and Tobin Q ratio of market valuation, however, individual parameters of corporate governance doesn't have any significant relationship and impact on market valuation and profitability of the companies. There in a call for evolving corporate accountability movement in India through well framed mandatory corporate reporting guidelines covering all aspects of social, environment and economic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stable oxygen isotope ratios (δO) of tree cellulose and speleothem carbonate are useful proxies for past monsoon rain in many tropical regions, as a decrease in rain δO is observed with increase in rainfall on a monthly time scale. This amount effect varies spatially; therefore a local calibration, with actual measurements of rain amount and its δO is required. Such observations, however, are quite limited in space and time. To circumvent this difficulty, many isotope enabled general circulation models (GCMs) are used to aid the interpretation of O proxies; nevertheless, all such simulations taken together are yet to be evaluated against observations over the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) region. Here we examine ten such GCM simulations archived by the stable water isotope INtercomparison Group, phase 2. The spatial patterns of simulated ISM rainfall and its δO are in good agreement with the limited observations available. Simulations nudged with observed wind fields show better skill in reproducing the observed spatio-temporal pattern of rainfall and its δO. A large discrepancy is observed in the magnitude of the simulated amount effect over the Indian subcontinent between the models and observation, probably because models simulate the spatial distribution of monsoon precipitation differently. Nudged simulations show that interannual variability of rainfall δO at proxy sites are controlled by either regional (rather than local) rainfall or upstream rain out. Interannual variability of rainfall δO over the East Asian region is well correlated with ENSO, while it is only weakly correlated over the Indian sub-continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethics refers to moral demands regarding the business and is based on a theory of the relationship between business and society. Ethics is a good business investment that generates trust and confidence between the parties and in turn guarantees long-term performance. Corporate identity is formed in the way a company manages the stakeholder claims through its values and actions. This paper attempts to define different nonfinancial parameters of ethical identity based on corporate governance, corporate social responsibility and sustainability and measure the extent of ethical practices followed in selected companies based on these parameters. Using Kruskal Wallis analysis, it was found that there is a significant difference between different industries in following and reporting ethical practices in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangrove protection and restoration have been prioritised in India, and as a result of concerted interventions by key maritime states, mangrove cover has increased significantly in the last few decades. Mangrove restoration efforts have received considerable attention in the States of Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh for their role in the mitigation of storms and cyclones. The 'community-based restoration' strategy, in particular, is credited with expansion of mangrove regions across India. This study highlights the mechanism of successful mangrove restoration and conservation through various efforts of the government, private sector, and the coastal community in the state of Gujarat, India. Despite rapid coastal development, mangrove cover has also steadily increased in the last few decades in the State, clearly indicating a balanced approach towards enhancing blue economy. This is credited to the vision of the Government of Gujarat, India for putting in place appropriate policies and their effective implementation. Restoration of degraded mangrove and afforestation of new mangroves were made successful by applying scientific transplantation of saplings, utilization of local resources, involvement of public and private sectors and efficient monitoring activities. The Government of Gujarat has developed a comprehensive approach to integrate diverse sectors to effectively conserve mangroves and adopting a community-based restoration model. Such efforts at the regional level are the first-ever large-scale restoration and afforestation measures in India. Coupling mangrove conservation and coastal development for enhanced blue economy in India. [Display omitted] • Mangrove conservation and sustainable development in Gujarat emphasizes the "new blue" initiatives. • Increase in mangrove cover attributed to the effective implementation of appropriate policies. • Successful mangrove restoration model has multi-stakeholder participation. • Mangrove conservation by Gujarat focused on enhanced ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the effectiveness of the depressurization technique for methane gas production from an unconfined gas hydrate setting in the Krishna Godavari Basin of India. TOUGH + HYDRATE reservoir modeling and production simulation software is used for identifying the depressurization range for sustained dissociation. For the identified depressurization range, a borehole based pumping technique is modeled using MATLAB software, to identify the effectiveness of the technique in dissociating the reservoir with post-dissociation permeability (PDP) ranging between 1 and 500 mD, the likely scenario for the KG basin. The results indicate that the depressurization technique shall be effective for reservoirs with higher PDP, while the reach of the bore well depends on the capacity of the pump and hydrate zone well perforation area. The simulation results indicate that a bore well with 50 m 2 of hydrate zone surface area could be effective in dissociating the reservoir up to a distance of 1000 m, with a pump of 128 kW electric capacities in formations with PDP of 500 mD. The results could serve as a basis for the economic planning of production wells in gas hydrate reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biogeochemical cycles of phosphorus in rivers are intimately linked to the processes that occur in terrestrial ecosystems. Riverine networks hold a crucial role in the transfer of nutrients from the land and atmosphere to the coastal oceans and often act as pool for numerous inorganic and organic compounds. Biogeochemical transformation of elements in river network is extensively influenced by catchment alteration and anthropogenic inputs. By means of the rising consciousness of human impact on the excellence of rivers, emphasis is given on rivers, as an ecosystem by itself and also on the river-coast continuum. In this study, the major forcing functions that affect the riverine composition of phosphorus have been examined, in Indian context. An attempt has been made to study and inventorize phosphorus flux from major Indian rivers. Relatively high concentrations of dissolved PO43- (dissolved inorganic phosphorus - DIP) are observed in few of the Indian rivers, which may be due to modifications in river catchment. The flow of DIP and particulate inorganic phosphorus to the coastal ocean from Indian rivers is estimated to be about 190 × 10³ tonnes year-1 and 1367 × 10³ tonnes year-1 respectively. Suspended load is significant in Indian rivers and its cumulative flux is in the order of 1450 × 106 tonnes year-1. The DIP concentration in the Indian rivers is more than twice the concentration observed for the other rivers in the world. Such increased nutrient input into the riverine system reflects the imbalances and alterations in terrestrial sources. Thus, the quantity and quality of nutrient input to the rivers need to be monitored to cope with the existing and future climatic and environmental changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds/Aims: To study the efficacy and safety of drotaverine hydrochloride (HCl) 80 mg tablet given thrice a day in the symptomatic relief of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Patients and Methods: The study was a multicentric, randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled parallel group study performed at three centers. The patients who fulfilled Rome II Criteria of IBS were included in the study. A total of 180 patients with IBS were randomized to drotaverine and placebo treatment groups. Abdominal pain and stool frequency were measured every week in both the groups for all the 4 weeks of treatment duration. Subject Global Assessment of Relief (SGA) of IBS symptoms was assessed at the end of the study. Appropriate statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Statistical Analysis Used: Mann-Whitney U‑test (two‑tailed), Wilcoxon signed ranks test, and McNemar tests. Results: Pain frequency decreased significantly (P < 0.01) in 22 (25.9%), 51 (60%), and 66 (77.7%) patients in the drotaverine group, at the end of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th weeks, respectively, as compared with 8 (9.4%), 18 (21.2%), and 26 (30.6%) in the placebo group. Pain severity scores also decreased significantly in the drotaverine group 66 (77.7%) as compared with placebo 26 (30.6%) after 4 weeks. Drotaverine HCl was shown to provide significant improvement (P < 0.01) in global relief in abdominal pain as perceived by the patient (85.9% vs 39.5%) and the clinician (82.4% vs 36.5%) in the drotaverine group as compared with placebo. There is significant (P < 0.01) improvement in stool frequency in drotaverine HCl treatment group as compared with placebo. The drug is well tolerated without any major side effects. Conclusions: A 4‑week treatment with drotaverine significantly improves abdominal symptoms in patients with IBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the prevalence and radiological pattern in pulmonary and skeletal system of HIV infected children. Subjects and methods: Serologically positive 62 children between the age group of 18 months to 12 years were studied from October 2010 to March 2012 (1 1/2 years period) admitted to pediatric ward SNMC, Bagalkot. All children were taken chest x ray and knee radiographs irrespective of symptoms at the time of first presentation. A single radiologist experienced in the field analyzed the radiographs. Results: Number of HIV seropositive children admitted during study period was 62. Of the 62 children, 29 children had abnormal chest x-ray and 30 had abnormal knee x-ray. Among the abnormal chest x-ray, bronchopneumonia (41.38%) was most common followed by Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia (17.24%), and osteopenia (33.33%), osteoporosis (23.33%) and scurvy (36.67%) were more common findings on knee x-ray. Conclusion: Routine chest and knee x-ray, will help in early diagnosis and timely treatment and help in increase in life expectancy of these children and micronutrient correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclonic storms are large-scale disturbances which cause extensive damage in coastal ecosystems. On 25 November 2013, Cyclone Lehar made a significant impact on the coastal areas of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. We observed the pre- and post-Lehar cyclonic effects on the seagrass meadows at Ross and Smith Island, North Andaman. The study indicates that the seagrass meadows are composed of Halodule uninervis, Halophila ovalis, Halodule pinnifolia and Thalassia hemperichii species. Seagrass beds of approximately 1.96 ha (approx. 63 %) were destroyed in the cyclone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is estimated that nearly one-third of India's population lives on the coast and is dependent on its resources. Shoreline erosion, storm surges and extreme events have resulted in severe loss of human life, damage to ecosystems and to property along the coast of India. Studies carried out in the Cuddalore region of South India reveal that this low-lying coastal zone, which suffered significant erosion during the last century, has been severely affected by the tsunami of 2004, storm floods and cyclones. In response to these impacts, a variety of coastal defense measures and adaptation strategies have been implemented in the region, although with only limited success. In order to inform future coastal planning in this region, the work reported here identifies a composite hazard line, seaward of which coastal flooding events will have a return interval of less than 1 in 100 years. The area landward of the coastal hazard line will be unaffected by 100 years of coastal erosion at present day rates. The study directly supports the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Plan of the Tamil Nadu State through the identification and assessment of coastal hazards and the overall vulnerability to coastal flooding and erosion. The key results from this pilot study will be used directly by the State of Tamil Nadu in the protection of the coastal livelihoods, better conservation measures and sustainable development along the coast. This study is a step toward mapping the hazard line for the entire coast of India that helps protect human lives and property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil organic carbon (SOC) up to 1 m depth originates from contemporary vegetation cover dating from past millennia. Deforestation and reforestation with economically important species is influencing soil carbon sequestration. An attempt has been made in this study to evaluate the impact of vegetation cover change (due to replacement of natural heterogeneous cover by teak and bamboo) on SOC using carbon isotopes (δC, C) in a tropical system (India). A litter decomposition study was carried out to understand the impact of differences in vegetation characteristics (specifically of leaves) on decomposition. Both experiments were carried out to look at the impact of changes in vegetation characteristics (specifically of leaves) on litter decomposition, and how these influence near term litter decomposition rates ( k values) and long-term SOC content of the soil system beneath. Leaves of teak, bamboo and eight other species were selected for this study. The proportion of structural carbohydrates (lignin and cellulose) in leaves significantly (at 5 % level) influenced k values. The SOC and carbon isotope data collected in this study indicate that C vegetation cover in the study area could be contemporary and dominant for the past few centuries. This can be extended up to ~2,200 years from the recorded C values of teak cover. The study confirms that k values of leaf litter influence SOC present beneath the vegetation cover at the decadal/century time scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geochemical distribution and enrichment of ten heavy metals in the surface sediments of Vembanad Lake, southwest coast of India was evaluated. Sediment samples from 47 stations in the Lake were collected during dry and wet seasons in 2008 and examined for heavy metal content (Al, Fe, Mn, Cr, Zn, Ni, Pb, Cu, Co, Cd), organic carbon, and sediment texture. Statistically significant spatial variation was observed among all sediment variables, but negligible significant seasonal variation was observed. Correlation analysis showed that the metal content of sediments was mainly regulated by organic carbon, Fe oxy-hydroxides, and grain size. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the 14 sediment variables into three factors that reveal distinct origins or accumulation mechanisms controlling the chemical composition in the study area. Pollution intensity of the Vembanad Lake was measured using the enrichment factor and the pollution load index. Severe and moderately severe enrichment of Cd and Zn in the north estuary with minor enrichment of Pb and Cr were observed, which reflects the intensity of the anthropogenic inputs related to industrial discharge into this system. The results of pollution load index reveal that the sediment was heavily polluted in northern arm and moderately polluted in the extreme end and port region of the southern arm of the lake. A comparison with sediment quality guideline quotient was also made, indicating that there may be some ecotoxicological risk to benthic organisms in these sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four sediment cores were collected from selected locations of Sundarbans mangroves and Hooghly estuary, northeast coast of India to establish Pb geochronology and trace metal distribution in sediments. Core sites were chosen to reflect a matrix of variable anthropogenic input and hydrological conditions. The vertical distribution of Pb (Pb-Ra) provided reliable geochronological age to calculate the mass accumulation rates and historic trace element inputs and their variations. The mass accumulation rates ranged from 0.41 g cm year (estuarine region) to 0.66 g cm year (mangrove region). Both in mangroves and estuarine systems, Fe-Mn oxy-hydroxides are observed to be a major controlling factor for trace metal accumulation when compared to organic carbon. Core collected from Hooghly estuary shows less contamination when compared to the mangrove region due to high energy and mostly coarse grained. Fe-normalized enrichment factors (EFs) of trace metals were calculated based on crustal trace element abundances. The EFs are typically >1 for Cd, Pb, Co, and Cu indicating that these metals are highly enriched while other metals such as Zn, Ni, Cr, and Mn show no enrichment or depletion. Both Sundarbans mangroves and Hooghly estuary have been receiving considerable pollution loads from anthropogenic sources such as industrial, domestic, and shipping activities in recent times, indicating high concentration of metals in the top few layers. This study suggests that the variation in trace metals content with depth or between mangrove and estuarine system results largely from metal input due to anthropogenic activities rather than diagenetic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two soil profiles from northeast India, one from Bakrihawar, an agricultural land, and the other from Chandipur, a virgin hilly area from Assam, are investigated to understand the organic carbon dynamics of the area. Due to frequent flooding, the Bakrihawar soil has accumulated a higher clay content than that of Chandipur. The carbon content is less than 1% by weight in both the sites. The higher clay content is responsible for relatively more soil organic carbon at Bakrihawar. The mean δ13C values at both sites reflect the values of the overlying vegetation. At Bakrihawar, both rice cultivation (C3) and natural C4 grasses contribute to higher mean enriched values of 13C relative to Chandipur, where the surface vegetation is mostly of C3 type. The turnover time of organic carbon, estimated using the residual radiocarbon content, depends strongly on the soil particle size distribution, especially the clay content (i.e. it increases with clay content). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first soil carbon dynamics study of its kind from northeast India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A seasonal cycle has been observed in the high and coarse resolution intra-annual analyses of oxygen isotopic composition (δO) of teak ( Tectona grandis) cellulose from southern India, that receives both the south-west (SW) (summer) and the north-east (NE) (winter, more depleted in O) monsoon rains. The seasonal cycle as recorded by teak, with an amplitude between 1 and 3‰, shows lower δO values at the early and late growing seasons than at the middle. This pattern is opposite to that found in central Indian teak, nurtured mostly by the SW monsoon rain. A comparison of the observed and modeled intra-annual profiles reveals that the observed pattern of intra-annual δO variation in southern India is explainable only if teak trees had sampled rainfall from both the monsoons. Thus it appears possible to detect years of past excess NE monsoon rains by analyzing the δO of cellulose from the latewood of teak trees growing in Kerala, southern India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report observations of circularly polarized emission from the solar corona at 77 MHz during the periods 2006 August 11-18, 2006 August 23-29, and 2007 May 16-22 in the minimum phase between the sunspot cycles 23 and 24. The observations were carried out with the east-west one-dimensional radio polarimeter at the Gauribidanur observatory located about 100 km north of Bangalore. Two-dimensional imaging observations at 77 MHz during the same period with the radioheliograph at the same observatory revealed that the emission region co-rotated with the Sun during the three aforementioned periods. Their rotation rates, close to the central meridian on the Sun, are 4'.6, 5'.2, and 4'.9 ± 0'.5 per day, respectively. We derived the radial distance of the region from the above observed rotation rates and the corresponding values are ≈1.24 ± 0.03 R... (2006 August 11-18), ≈1.40 ± 0.03 R... (2006 August 23-29), and ≈1.32 ± 0.03 R... (2007 May 16-22). The estimated lower limit for the magnetic field strength at the above radial distances and periods are ≈1.1, 0.6, and 0.9 G, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of six heavy metals (Cr, Cd, Cu, Zn, Pb and Ni) in sediment, water and in tissue parts of Mugil cephalus and Crassostrea madrasensis was studied in two locations of Pulicat lake, Southeast coast of India, which receives considerable quantity of effluents from industries located in North Chennai coastal region. The results reveal that the metal concentration in water is decreasing in the following order of Zn > Ni > Cu > Cr > Pb > Cd both in lake and barmouth and highest concentration was observed for Zn (32.5 μg L-1 in lake and 25.2 μg L-1 in bar mouth). Metals were highly concentrated in sediments when compared to water and biota. Metals abundance in sediments has following sequential order of Cr > Ni > Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd and the accumulation pattern in barmouth showed minor variation indicating the following pattern of Zn > Ni > Cr > Cu > Pb > Cd. The geoaccumulation index (Igeo) for Pulicat lake sediments indicate that the sediments are extremely contaminated with Cd and moderately contaminated with Cu and Ni. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in Mugil cephalus and Crassostrea madrasensis showed marked differences in the accumulation patterns. It is observed that Zn, Cu and Pb are accumulated in elevated concentrations in various parts of the fish and oyster when compared with other metals. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Indian monsoon activity, coinciding with the Inter-Tropical Convective Zone (ITCZ), progresses from the southern Indian Ocean during the boreal summer and withdraws towards the south in winter. Islands situated to the south of India receive, therefore, the first and last showers of the monsoon; speleothems in such islands have not yet been explored for their potential to reconstruct past monsoon rainfall. Here, we present the first measurements of stable carbon and oxygen isotopic compositions (δ13C andδ18O) of a stalagmite collected from the Baratang Island of Andamans, along with new data on δ18Oofmodernmonsoon precipitation (May to July 2010). The aim was to detect (i) whether these samples are amenable to dating using 14C, (ii) whether their oxygen isotopes indicate precipitation under isotopic equilibrium, and (iii) if (i) and (ii) above are true, can we reconstruct monsoon activity during the past few millennia? Our results indicate that while δ18O of speleothem does show evidence for precipitation under isotopic equilibrium; dating by 14C shows inversions due to varying contributions from dead carbon. The present work highlights the problems and prospects of speleothem paleomonsoon research in these islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural hazards cause great damage to humankind and the surrounding ecosystem. They can cast certain indelible changes on the natural system. One such tsunami event occurred on 26 December 2004 and caused serious damage to the environment, including deterioration of groundwater quality. This study addresses the groundwater quality variation before and after the tsunami from Pumpuhar to Portnova in Tamil Nadu coast using geochemical methods. As a part of a separate Ph.D. study on the salinity of groundwater from Pondicherry to Velankanni, water quality of this region was studied with the collection of samples during November 2004, which indicated that shallow aquifers were not contaminated by sea water in certain locations. These locations were targeted for post-tsunami sample collection during the months of January, March and August 2005 from shallow aquifers. Significant physical mixing (confirmed with mixing models) within the aquifer occurred during January 2005, followed by precipitation of salts in March and complete leaching and dissolution of these salts in the post-monsoon season of August. As a result, maximum impact of tsunami water was observed in August after the onset of monsoon. Tsunami water inundated inland water bodies and topographic lows where it remained stagnant, especially in the near-shore regions. Maximum tsunami inundation occurred along the fluvial distributary channels, and it was accelerated by topography to a certain extent where the southern part of the study area has a gentler bathymetry than the north. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is paucity of data regarding duration of fecal excretion and viremia on sequential samples from individual patients and its correlation with serum transaminases and antibody responses in patients with acute hepatitis E. This prospective study was undertaken at a tertiary care center in Northern India over 15 months. Only those patients of sporadic acute hepatitis E who were in their first week of illness and followed up weekly for liver function tests, IgM anti HEV antibody and HEV RNA in sera and stool were included. HEV RNA was done by RT - nPCR using two pairs of primers from RdRp region of ORF 1 of the HEV genome. Results: Over a period of 15 months 60 patients met the inclusion criterion and were enrolled for the final analysis. The mean age of the patients was 29.2 ± 8.92 years, there were 39 males. The positivity of IgM anti HEV was 80% at diagnosis and 18.3% at 7th week, HEV RNA 85% at diagnosis and 6.6% at 7th week and fecal RNA 70% at the time of diagnosis and 20% at 4th week. The maximum duration of viremia detected was 42 days and fecal viral shedding was 28 days after the onset of illness. Conclusion: Present study reported HEV RNA positivity in sera after normalization of transaminases. Fecal shedding was not seen beyond normalization of transaminases. However, viremia lasted beyond normalization of transaminases suggesting that liver injury is independent of viral replication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We measured dissolved N2O, CH4, O2, , and on 7 transects along the polluted Adyar River–estuary, SE India and estimated N2O and CH4 emissions using a gas exchange relation and a floating chamber. High implied some nitrification of a large anthropogenic pool. In the lower catchment CH4 was maximal (6.3±4.3×104 nM), exceeding the ebullition threshold, whereas strong undersaturation of N2O and O2 implied intense denitrification. Emissions fluxes for the whole Adyar system ∼2.5×108 gCH4 yr−1 and ∼2.4×106 gN2Oyr−1 estimated with a gas exchange relation and ∼2×109 gCH4 yr−1 derived with a floating chamber illustrate the importance of CH4 ebullition. An equivalent CO2 flux ∼1–10×1010 gyr−1 derived using global warming potentials is equivalent to total Chennai motor vehicle CO2 emissions in one month. Studies such as this may inform more effective waste management and future compliance with international emissions agreements. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Residential, industrial, commercial, institutional and recreational activities discharge degradable and non-degradable wastes that reach the coastal water through rivers and cause coastal pollution. In the present study, mass transport of pollutants by Adyar and Cooum Rivers to the coastal water as a result of land-based discharges was estimated during low tide. The lowest and the highest flow recorded in Adyar varied from 514.59 to 2,585.08×106 litres/day. Similarly, the flow in Cooum River fluctuated between 266.45 and 709.34×106 litres/day. The present study revealed that the Adyar River transported 53.89–454.11 t/d of suspended solids, 0.06–19.64 t/d of ammonia, 15.95–123.24 t/d of nitrate and 0.4–17.86 t/d of phosphate, 0.004–0.09 kg/d of cadmium, 0.15–1.29 kg/d of lead and 3.03–17.58 kg/d of zinc to the coastal water owing to its high discharge. Similarly, the Cooum River transported 11.87–120.06 t/d of suspended solids, 0.08–58.7 t/d of ammonia, 6.11–29.25 t/d of nitrate and 0.66–10.73 t/d of phosphate, 0.003–0.021 kg/d of cadmium, 0.02–0.44 kg/d of lead and 1.36–3.87 kg/d of zinc. A higher concentration of suspended solids was noticed in post monsoon and summer months. An increase in the mass transport of ammonia, nitrate, phosphate in summer months (April and May) and an increase in the mass transport of cadmium, lead and zinc were observed in monsoon months (October–December) in both the rivers. Thus mass transport of pollutants study reveal that Cooum and Adyar Rivers in Chennai contribute to coastal pollution by transporting inorganic and trace metals significantly through land drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a campaign in December 2006, radio spectrum measurements over the frequency range 45-870 MHz were carried out at the Gauribidanur observatory, located about 100 km north of Bangalore. The spectrometer used for the above purpose was subsequently configured for radio spectral observations of the solar corona. This paper describes, (i) radio frequency interference over some of the frequency bands 'protected' for radio astronomy; and (ii) 'first' solar radio burst observation and the above instrument. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present stable oxygen isotopic ratios (δ18O) of rainfall collected over three years (July to October 2000-02) at Mangalore. We observe an apparent positive correlation between the monthly, amount-weighted mean oxygen isotopic ratio of the rainwater and monthly total rainfall, contrary to the generally expected negative trend in many island and continental stations. We offer an explanation for this observation and propose that the 'amount effect' in the annual rainfall still remains with a negative slope, and thus can be useful in palaeomonsoon reconstruction using oxygen isotopic variations of annually laminated speleothems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedimentary methane (CH4) fluxes and oxidation rates were determined over the wet and dry seasons (four measurement campaigns) in Pulicat lake, an extensive shallow estuary in south India. Dissolved CH4 concentrations were measured at 52 locations in December 2000. The annual mean net CH4 flux from Pulicat lake sediments was 3.7 x 109 g yr-1 based on static chamber measurements. A further 1.7 x 109 g yr-1 was estimated to be oxidized at the sediment-water interface. The mean dissolved concentration of CH4 was 242 nmol l-1 (ranging between 94 and 501 nmol l-1) and the spatial distribution could be explained by tidal dynamics and freshwater input. Sea-air exchange estimates using models, account only for ∼13% (0.5 x 109 g yr-1) of the total CH4 produced in sediments, whereas ebullition appeared to be the major route for loss to the atmosphere (∼63% of the net sediment flux). We estimated the total atmospheric source of CH4 from Pulicat lake to be 0.5 to 4.0 x 109 g yr-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential oftropical speleothems as a climate proxy has been investigated. Amplitudes of δ18O and δ13C variations are found to be large and are likely to be primarily controlled by past rainfall. Contribution from past temperature variations seems to be relatively small. The 'amount effect' in rainfall has been observed and quantified by analysing rainwater samples collected during a monsoon season. A tentative chronology to these speleothems is asssigned by the 14C radiometric dating method. Assuming that the variations in the δ18O of cave carbonates are solely due to the past variations in rainfall, a history ofthe latter has been reconstructed. A high-resolution rainfall reconstruction up to the last ~3400 years is now available from Gupteswar cave, Orissa, subject to validation of dates by the U-Th method. It is observed that in a tropical speleothem δ13C is dominantly controlled by rainfall. The study has shown that tropical Indian speleothems faithfully record the annual (≈ monsoon) rainfall in the cave site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventeen sediment cores were collected from different coastal ecosystems of Tamil Nadu, India that include coastal lagoon (Pulicat), polluted rivers in Chennai (Adyar and Cooum), Coral reef (Gulf of Mannar) and a perennial river (Tamiraparani). Radiometric dating has been used to determine the modern sedimentation rates in these ecosystems. The Pulicat Lake and the polluted rivers (Adyar and Cooum) yield an average sediment accumulation rate of 12.34 and 7.85 mm yr-1, respectively. In the Gulf of Mannar coral reef, the sedimentation rate averages 17.37 mm yr-1, while the rate in Tamiraparani River is 11.00 mm yr-1. In the Tamiraparani River basin, the deposition rates were an order of magnitude higher when compared to the erosion rates, which may be due to bank erosion and the intense human activity. In general high rates of sedimentation observed in the coastal ecosystems not only reflect the capacity of the coastal regions as sinks for trace metals but also denote increased input of pollutants into the coastal environments in the recent past. The deposition rates of heavy metals – Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cr and Ni in the depth profiles have been computed using sedimentation rates and their distribution is discussed. It can be seen that the mean deposition rates of all the measured elements in the Tamil Nadu coastal ecosystems are high compared with rates determined for the sediments of the deltaic regions of India and the Bay of Bengal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis was used to examine variation in the distribution of microbial communities in heavily polluted mangrove sediments of Thane creek, west coast of India. A total of 40 individual PLFAs representing 11 functional groups were identified in the sediment and were mainly dominated by saturated fatty acids (anaerobic prokaryotes) >50%. Significant dominance of PUFA, 16:3 ω6c (34.2%) indicators of micro-eukaryotes, in subsurface depth (p < 0.05) suggests input from the remnants of marine microalgae. Declined mean relative abundance of fungi (<6%) and actinomycetes (<1%) were detected in the sediment indicating their sensitivity to anthropic stressors. Homogenous profile of microbial diversity indicating active bioturbation. Cumulative metabolic stress evident from SAT/MUFA (>1), B/F (>1) and G + / G– (<1) ratio and prolonged hypoxia to be prevalent in the creek during the study. In conclusion, PLFA signatures can thus be used as potential biomarkers of environmental monitoring and proxy for interpreting ecosystem health. [Display omitted] • Microbial lipids and sediment geochemistry in polluted mangrove sediment of Thane were evaluated. • Sediment harboured 40 different PLFA representing 11 microbial functional groups. • Predominance of anaerobes and microalgal remains indicated reduced condition. • Geochemical characteristics best explained the variation in the microbial community. • Shift from G + to G– microbial community indicated a stressful ecological niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic activities experienced a pause due to the nationwide lockdown, imposed to contain the rapid spread of COVID-19 in the third week of March 2020. The impacts of suspension of industrial activities, vehicular transport and other businesses for three months (25 March-30 June) on the environmental settings of Chennai, a coastal megacity was assessed. A significant reduction in the key urban air pollutants [PM 2.5 (66.5%), PM 10 (39.5%), NO 2 (94.1%), CO (29%), O 3 (45.3%)] was recorded as an immediate consequence of the reduced anthropogenic activities. Comparison of water quality of an urban river Adyar, between pre-lockdown and lockdown, showed a substantial drop in the dissolved inorganic N (47%) and suspended particulate matter (41%) during the latter period. During the pandemic, biomedical wastes in India showed an overall surge of 17%, which were predominantly plastic. FTIR-ATR analysis confirmed the polymers such as polypropylene (25.4%) and polyester (15.4%) in the personal protective equipment. [Display omitted] • The impact of COVID-19 on air, water and biota in the coastal environment were studied. • Lockdown resulted in a significant reduction in key air pollutants which in turn improved the Chennai air quality up to 70%. • An increase in dissolved oxygen decreased dissolved inorganic N and chlorophyll a was recorded in coastal waters. • An overall surge of plastic-based facemasks, gloves and other PPE was recorded. • Blue economy sectors: fishing, tourism and seafood industries severely affected by the restrictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses an investigation of a cluster of diarrheal disease with 3 deaths at Ranzole village in India to confirm the etiology, identify risk factors and make recommendations for prevention. A house to house case search was conducted by trained community health workers to identify the case patients while stool samples and water specimen from all water sources were collected. The investigations cited the contamination of tube-wells as the source of the outbreak.

Context: Early detection and optimal treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are shown to prevent or delay the complications of the disease. In resource poor settings we need sensitive, specific and inexpensive screening tool to detect people with T2DM. Tools involving point of care blood glucose testing have shown the superiority over others where only history and anthropometry were used. Aims: This study aims to compare the specificity and sensitivity of Indian diabetes risk score (IDRS) and Tabaei and Herman equation based risk score model in a rural community of Northern Karnataka. Materials and Methods: Diabetes prevalence study conducted in rural North Karnataka is used for the present study. All the variables required for calculating IDRS and Tabaei and Herman equation are available from the prevalence study. Instead of random capillary blood glucose, 2 h post 75 g plasma glucose value is used in the equation. And self-reported postprandial time is taken as 2 h. Statistical Analysis: The MedCalc-version 11.3.0 is used for the statistical calculations. DeLong method used to compare the area under receiver operating characteristics (ROCs) of the two risk scores. Results: Three hundred and eighteen participants completed the study and were considered for analysis. In this study optimal, cut-off value for IDRS found to be 40 and for Tabaei et al. equation 0.09. Area under ROC for IDRS was 0.755 (95% CI: 0.680-0.819), and for Tabaei et al. equation it was 0.979 (95% CI: 0.943-0.995). Conclusion: Sensitivity and specificity of T2DM screening tool can be improved by including a point of care blood glucose testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]