025258   MORADIZADEH M, SARADJIAN M R (Geomatics Dep, Isfahan Univ, Iran, Email: mina moradizadeh@yahoo.com) : Estimation of improved resolution soil moisture in vegetated areas using passive AMSR-E data. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 24.

Microwave remote sensing provides a unique capability for soil parameter retrievals. Therefore, various soil parameters estimation models have been developed using brightness temperature (BT) measured by passive microwave sensors. Due to the low resolution of satellite microwave radiometer data, the main goal of this study is to develop a downscaling approach to improve the spatial resolution of soil moisture estimates with the use of higher resolution visible/infrared sensor data. Accordingly, after the soil parameters have been obtained using Simultaneous Land Parameters Retrieval Model algorithm, the downscaling method has been applied to the soil moisture estimations that have been validated against in situ soil moisture data. Advance Microwave Scanning Radiometer-EOS BT data in Soil Moisture Experiment 2003 region in the south and north of Oklahoma have been used to this end. Results illustrated that the soil moisture variability is effectively captured at 5 km spatial scales without a significant degradation of the accuracy.

5 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

025257   SALAHI B, NOHEGAR A, BEHROUZI M, AALIJAHAN M (Physical Geography Dep, Mohaghegh Ardabili Univ, Ardabil, Iran, Email: bromand416@yahoo.com) : Synoptic patterns leading to hailstorm in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, Iran. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 23.

The purpose of this study was to extract the synoptic patterns of 500 mb geopotential height and the sea level pressure leading to form hail in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, Iran. To this end, at first, we explored hail occurrence in different areas of the province under investigation. Then, using sea level pressure and 500 mb geopotential height data, the patterns of hail occurrence were investigated through hierarchical clustering and Ward’s method. The level of 500 mb patterns resulting in hail formation in the area include: (1) settlement of a cut-off low pressure blocking in Turkey and Iran’s position in downstream of trough and injection of humidity coming from the Red Sea; (2) settlement of low ridge in northern Europe and Iran lying in downstream of the trough and injection of humidity of the Mediterranean Sea; (3) settlement of a cut-off low pressure in east of Europe and Iran lying in downstream of the trough; and (4) settlement of a deep trough in the Mediterranean Sea, formation of an omega-shaped blocking in Northern Europe and Iran lying in downstream of the trough. At sea level, the following patterns have caused hail formation in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province: (1) settlement of low pressure in Iran and Russia accompanying high pressure in Taklimakan Desert and east of Europe; (2) settlement of low pressure in Iran and high pressure in Egypt, northern Europe, and Taklimakan Desert; and (3) settlement of low pressure in Iran, Saudi Arabia and south of Italy and high pressure in Egypt and Siberia.

28 illus, 30 ref

025256   YELLAPPA T, RAO J M (National Geophysical Research Institute, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: yellappa thoti@yahoo.co.uk) : Geochemical characteristics of proterozoic granite magmatism from Southern granulite terrain, India: Implications for Gondwana. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 22.

Granitoid intrusions occur widely in the Southern Granulite Terrain (SGT) of India, particularly within the Cauvery Suture Zone (CSZ), which is considered as the trace of the Neoproterozoic Mozambique ocean closure. Here we present the petrological and geochemical features of 19 granite plutons across the three major tectonic blocks of the terrain. Our data show a wide variation in the compositions of these intrusions from alkali feldspathic syenite to granite. The whole rock geochemistry of these intrusions displays higher concentrations of SiO₂, FeO*, K₂O, Ba, Zr, Th, LREE and low MgO, Na₂O, Ti, P, Nb, Y and HREE’s. The granitoids are metaluminous to slightly peraluminous in nature revealing both I-type and A-type origin. In tectonic discrimination plots, the plutons dominantly show volcanic arc and syn-collisional as well as post-collisional affinity. Based on the available age data together with geochemical constrains, we demonstrate that the granitic magmatism in the centre and south of the terrain is mostly associated with the Neoproterozoic subduction–collision–accretion–orogeny, followed by extensional mechanism of Gondwana tectonics events. Similar widespread granitic activity has also been documented in the Arabian Nubian shield, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and Antarctica, providing similarities for the reconstruction of the crustal fragments of Gondwana supercontinent followed by Pan-African orogeny.

11 illus, 3 tables, 154 ref

025255   VERMA K, BHARTI S K, SINGH A D (Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi - 221 005, Email: arundeosingh@yahoo.com) : Late Glacial?Holocene record of benthic foraminiferal morphogroups from the Eastern Arabian sea OMZ: Paleoenvironmental implications. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 21.

The Arabian Sea is characterized today by a well-developed and perennial oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) at mid-water depths. The Indian margin where the OMZ impinges provides sediment records ideal to study past changes in the OMZ intensity and its vertical extent in response to the changes of monsoondriven primary productivity and intermediate water ventilation. Benthic foraminifera, depending upon their adaptation capabilities to variation in sea floor environment and microhabitat preferences, develop various functional morphologies that can be potentially used in paleoenvironmental reconstruction. In this study, we analysed benthic foraminiferal morphogroups in assemblage records of the last 30 ka in a sediment core collected from the lower OMZ of the Indian margin (off Goa). In total, nine morphogroups within two broadly classified epifaunal and infaunal microhabitat categories are identified. The abundance of morphogroups varies significantly during the late Glacial, Deglacial and Holocene. It appears that monsoon wind driven organic matter flux, and water column ventilation governing the OMZ intensity and sea-bottom oxygen condition, have profound influence on structuring the benthic foraminiferal morphogroups. We found a few morphogroups showing major changes in their abundances during the periods corresponding to the northern hemisphere climatic events. Benthic foraminifera with planoconvex tests are abundant during the cold Heinrich events, when the sea bottom was oxygenated due to a better ventilated, weak OMZ; whereas, those having tapered/cylindrical tests dominate during the last glacial maximum and the Holocene between 5 and 8 ka BP, when the OMZ was intensified and poorly ventilated, leading to oxygen-depleted benthic environment. Characteristically, increased abundance of taxa with milioline tests during the Heinrich 1 further suggests enhanced ventilation attributed probably to the influence of oxygen-rich Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW).

5 illus, 1 table, 84 ref

025254   GOSWAMI S, UPADHYAY P K, BHAGAT S, ZAKAULLA S, BHATT A K, NATARAJAN V, DEY S (Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, Bengaluru - 560 072, Email: sukantagoswami.amd@gov.in) : An approach of understanding acid volcanics and tuffaceous volcaniclastics from field studies: A case from Tadpatri formation, proterozoic Cuddapah basin, Andhra Pradesh, India. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 20.

The lower stratigraphic part of the Cuddapah basin is marked by mafic and felsic volcanism. Tadpatri Formation consists of a greater variety of rock types due to bimodal volcanism in the upper part. Presence of bimodal volcanism is an indication of continental rift setting. Various genetic processes involved in the formation of such volcanic sequence result in original textures which are classified into volcaniclastic and coherent categories. Detailed and systematic field works in Tadpatri–Tonduru transect of SW Cuddapah basin have provided information on the physical processes producing this diversity of rock types. Felsic volcanism is manifested here with features as finger print of past rhyolite-dacite eruptions. Acid volcanics, tuffs and associated shale of Tadpatri Formation are studied and mapped in the field. With supporting subordinate studies on geochemistry, mineralogy and petrogenesis of the volcanics to validate field features accurately, it is understood that volcanism was associated with rifting and shallow marine environmental condition. Four facies (i.e., surge, flow, fall and resedimented volcaniclastic) are demarcated to describe stratigraphic units and volcanic history of the mapped area. The present contribution focuses on the fundamental characterization and categorization of field-based features diagnostic of silica-rich volcanic activities in the Tadpatri Formation.

25 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

025253   DAS P, BEHERA M D, PATIDAR N, SAHOO B, TRIPATHI P, BEHERA P R, SRIVASTAVA S K, ROY P S, THAKUR P AGRAWAL S P, KRISHNAMURTHY Y V N (Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur - 721 302, Email: mukundbehera@gmail.com) : Impact of LULC change on the runoff, base flow and evapotranspiration dynamics in Eastern Indian river basins during 1985?2005 using variable infiltration capacity approach. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 19.

As a catchment phenomenon, land use and land cover change (LULCC) has a great role in influencing the hydrological cycle. In this study, decadal LULC maps of 1985, 1995, 2005 and predicted-2025 of the Subarnarekha, Brahmani, Baitarani, Mahanadi and Nagavali River basins of eastern India were analyzed in the framework of the variable infiltration capacity (VIC) macro scale hydrologic model to estimate their relative consequences. The model simulation showed a decrease in ET with 0.0276 % during 1985–1995, but a slight increase with 0.0097 % during 1995–2005. Conversely, runoff and base flow showed an overall increasing trend with 0.0319 and 0.0041 % respectively during 1985–1995. In response to the predicted LULC in 2025, the VIC model simulation estimated reduction of ET with 0.0851 % with an increase of runoff by 0.051 %. Among the vegetation parameters, leaf area index (LAI) emerged as the most sensitive one to alter the simulated water balance. LULC alterations via deforestation, urbanization, cropland expansions led to reduced canopy cover for interception and transpiration that in turn contributed to overall decrease in ET and increase in runoff and base flow. This study reiterates changes in the hydrology due to LULCC, thereby providing useful inputs for integrated water resources management in the principle of sustained ecology.

9 illus, 5 tables, 63 ref

025252   RAWAT K S, SEHGAL V K, PRADHAN S, RAY S S (Agricultural Physics Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: kr_rawat2002@yahoo.com) : Semi-empirical model for retrieval of soil moisture using RISAT-1 C-Band SAR data over a sub-tropical semi-arid area of Rewari district, Haryana (India). J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 18.

We have estimated soil moisture (SM) by using circular horizontal polarization backscattering coefficient (σ^o_RH), differences of circular vertical and horizontal σ^o (σ^o_RV−σ^o_RH) from FRS-1 data of Radar Imaging Satellite (RISAT-1) and surface roughness in terms of RMS height (RMS_height). We examined the performance of FRS-1 in retrieving SM under wheat crop at tillering stage. Results revealed that it is possible to develop a good semi-empirical model (SEM) to estimate SM of the upper soil layer using RISAT-1 SAR data rather than using existing empirical model based on only single parameter, i.e., σ^o. Near surface SM measurements were related to σ^o_RH, σ^o_RV−σ^o_RH derived using 5.35 GHz (C-band) image of RISAT-1 and RMS_height. The roughness component derived in terms of RMS_height showed a good positive correlation with σ^o_RV−σ^o_RH (R² = 0.65). By considering all the major influencing factors (σ^o_RH, σ^o_RV−σ^o_RH, and RMS_height), an SEM was developed where SM (volumetric) predicted values depend on σ^o_RH, σ^o_RV−σ^o_RH, and RMS_height. This SEM showed R² of 0.87 and adjusted R² of 0.85, multiple R=0.94 and with standard error of 0.05 at 95% confidence level. Validation of the SM derived from semi-empirical model with observed measurement (SM_Observed) showed root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.06, relativeRMSE (R-RMSE) = 0.18, mean absolute error (MAE) = 0.04, normalized RMSE (NRMSE) = 0.17, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) = 0.91 (≈1), index of agreement (d) = 1, coefficient of determination (R²)=0.87, mean bias error (MBE) = 0.04, standard error of estimate (SEE) = 0.10, volume error (VE) = 0.15, variance of the distribution of differences (S2 d)=0.004. The developed SEM showed better performance in estimating SM than Topp empirical model which is based only on σ^o. By using the developed SEM, top soil SM can be estimated with low mean absolute percent error (MAPE) = 1.39 and can be used for operational applications.

7 illus, 7 tables, 30 ref

025251   YADAV P K, ADHIKARI P K, SRIVASTAVA S, MAURYA V P, TRIPATHI A, SINGH S, SINGH R K, BAGE A K (Applied Geophysics Dep, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Email: svismagp@gmail.com) : Lithologic boundaries from gravity and magnetic anomalies over proterozoic Dalma volcanics. J Earth Syst Sci 2018, 127(2), 17.

Dalma volcanics (DVs) has intruded the older Singhbhum Group of Metapelites. Despite DVs being rich in mineralisation, its boundaries are not clearly demarcated. Gravity and magnetic surveys have been attempted for mapping the boundaries in DVs. These surveys were made in the northern fringe of the DVs over an area of $~$0.70 km² along 13 parallel lines at 50 m spacing. The data was acquired at $~$25 m spacing. The surveys were taken for determination of lithological boundaries, depths and nature of causative source using Euler depth solutions and radially averaged power spectrum (RAPS). Residual anomaly maps of gravity and magnetic intensity show the same trend as that of Bouguer gravity anomaly and total magnetic intensity anomaly map indicating towards shallow sources. The magnetic map in general follows the same pattern as that of gravity anomaly maps. The map shows coincident high gravity and magnetic anomalies. These anomalies together with resistivity signatures confirm that the northern fringe of DVs hosts volcanogenic massive sulphide settings. The Euler depth solution delineated the lateral boundaries and nature of the source. It seems that the source is of spherical nature lying within a depth range of 25–40 m. The obtained lithological (vertical) units from RAPS are between Lower DVs, Upper DVs and Singhbhum Group Metapelites at depths of $~$15, $~$25 and $~$40 m, respectively. The metallogeny is associated with the Upper DVs and the corresponding delineated lithological (vertical) unit is indicative of the top of the ore body. Good agreement is observed with the geological succession from the drilling data and resistivity data. The findings suggest that the northern fringe of DVs could be a preferred target for drilling.

4 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

025232   SAHOO L, RATHA BK, NAYAK BK (Geology Dep, Utkal Univ, Odisha) : Mineralogical and geochemical characterisation of iron ore deposit of Koira region of Sundargarh district of Odisha. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2018, 5(4), 194-9.

Koira region of Odisha is well known for mining and industrial activities. Mineralogical and geochemical studies of rocks of the area were carried out to assess the nature of the Iron Formation of the area. Mineral identification and their characterisation were done through optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction technique. Mineralogical study reveals that hematite is the predominant mineral phase. Other minerals associated are martite, specularite and goethite. Chert/silica, jasper, gibbsite and kaolinite form the gangue minerals. Cavity filling, replacement and colloidal textures are observed in the iron ores. Banding, micro-folding are common in iron ores. X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometric analysis was carried out over samples of Iron ores. Range of values obtained for various oxides and element are: Fe₂O₃ 67.24 % - 94.52 %, SiO₂ 1.11 - 14.21 %, Al₂O₃ 1.05 - 8.20 %, Na₂O 0.21 - 0.81 %, K₂O 0.18 - 1.42 %, CaO 0.14 - 0.22 %, MgO 0.04- 0. 19 %, MnO 0.02 - 0.04 %, P 0.02 - 0.05 %, TiO₂0.13 -0.43 %, V₂O₅ 0.02 - 0.05 %, Cr₂O₃ 0.02 - 0.06 %. Multivariate factor analysis was carried out on geochemical data for understanding the processes involved in the formation of these ores.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

025231   REDDY S K, REDDY C S, REDDY G V S (Chemistry Dep, JNTUA Coll of Engineering, Pulivendula-516 390, Email: gopireddy.chemistry@jntua.ac.in) : Seasonal variation of trace and heavy metals in agricultural soils around Tummalapalle uranium mining site. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(3), 673-8.

Assessment of seasonal variation in concentration of trace and heavy metals e.g., B, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, P, Zn, As, Cd, Pb, Se and Tl in agricultural fields (soils) around Tummalapalle uranium mining site, Pulivendula, Kadapa district, have been undertaken up during two major seasons of Andhra Pradesh. This was carried out mainly to assess the environmental pollution status of the soil around Tummalapalle uranium mining site. The soil samples were analyzed for trace and heavy metals using inductive coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The mean concentration range of B: 0.087-0.21 mg/kg; Ca: 40.43-119.9 mg/kg; Cu: 2.16-8.17 mg/kg; Fe: 103.2-222 mg/kg; K: 62.15-151.1 mg/kg; Mg: 25.7-46.95 mg/kg; Mn: 3.37-5.84 mg/kg; Mo: 2.58-5.41 mg/kg; P: 0.59-2.44 mg/kg; Zn: 0.14-0.29 mg/kg; Pb: 0.049-0.078 mg/kg found during pre-monsoon season period and B: 0.22-0.42 mg/kg; Ca: 78.7-124.62 mg/kg; Cu: 2.48-6.42 mg/kg; Fe: 194-360 mg/kg; K: 72.64-134.4 mg/kg; Mg: 32.72-56 mg/kg; Mn: 1.76-2.5 mg/kg; Mo: 0.11-0.14 mg/kg; P: 3.03-8 mg/kg; Zn: 0.3-0.16 mg/kg; and Pb: 0.02-0.12 mg/kg assessed in post monsoon season. During the assessment, As, Cd, Se and Tl could not found in both seasons.

1 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

025230   HEE Y Y, SURATMAN S (1 Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Malaysia Terengganu Univ, Terengganu, Malaysia, Email: miman@umt.edu.my) : Assessment of trace metals distribution in Lake Kenyir, Malaysia. Asian J Chem 2018, 30(3), 579-84.

Measurements of dissolved and particulate trace metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, Fe and Zn) were made on water samples collected from Lake Kenyir, Malaysia. Samples were taken monthly from the same stations during August-October 2010. Comparison with the National Water Quality Standards (NWQS), Malaysia showed that all dissolved trace metals were classified as Class I (clean status) for all surface waters, although some of the trace metals displayed slightly higher concentrations at the eastern part of the lake. No comparison based on NWQS could be made for particulate trace metals as they are not listed in this classification. When comparing with other selected lakes in Malaysia, the trace metals in this study area were among the lowest concentrations.

3 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

025249   SALMANFARSI A F, SHUIB M K, THAM FATT N G, ZULKIFLEY M T M (Geology Dep, Malaya Univ, Kuala Lumpur-50603, Email: mustaffk@um.edu.my) : Kinematics and timing of brittle-ductile shearing of Mylonites along the Bok Bak fault, Peninsular Malaysia. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1110-6.

Study on the Bok Bak fault in Peninsular Malaysia reveals it to be a predominantly dextral brittle–ductile strike slip fault zone. This fault zone is characterized by gentle to sub-horizontal NE stretching lineation. The deformation occurred in a brittle–ductile domain. 40Ar/39Ar radiometric dating of biotite from the mylonite assigns an age of 136.1 ± 1.4 Ma. This age is the first reported radiometric dating of the Bok Bak fault, suggesting that the fault affected Sundaland prior to the collision between India and Asia, and therefore indicates an early faulting in the Malay Peninsula.

5 illus, 56 ref

025248   JANA P, WOTSA K, DASGUPTA S, TODARIA N P (Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal Univ, Garhwal- 246 174, Email: nagendratodaria@gmail.com) : Surface water quality in sacred groves of Garhwal Himalayan region, India. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1105-10.

We have studied the quality of surface water in three sacred groves of Garhwal (Uttarakhand, India). The water samples were collected in March–April 2013. Results showed that all water samples conformed to WHO standards for potability. Water of Hariyali Devi recorded the lowest dissolved oxygen and water of Tarkeshwar had the highest hardness. The quality water of Ravigaon was found to be the best among the waters of the three groves. Water from deodardominant forests recorded higher dissolved oxygen, total hardness, calcium and magnesium hardness. The overall drinking water quality of oak-dominated forests was found to be better.

5 tables, 29 ref

025247   NONGKYNRIH J M, POHSHNA C, SARMA K K (North Eastern Space Applications Centre, Umiam- 793 103, Email: jnongkynrih@nesac.gov.in) : Dynamics of shifting cultivation in relation to slope and elevation in parts of Nagaland, India. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1094-9.

Shifting cultivation in North Eastern Region of India is practised along the hill slopes by tribes of the region for subsistence living. The present study was carried out to examine the dynamics of shifting cultivation in relation to slope and elevation in Mokokchung, Teunsang and Wokha districts of Nagaland. Temporal Advanced Widefield Sensor data of Resources I were used to derive information on the changes and spatial extent of shifting cultivation areas in these districts. Slope and elevation parameters were derived from Shuttle Radar Thematic Mapper data. The study found a change in current shifting cultivation lands to regenerating shifting cultivation. All three districts showed an increasing trend in regenerating shifting cultivation and decrease in current shifting cultivation lands. A shift of cultivation plots towards higher elevations was noted. Southern slopes are mostly occupied for shifting cultivation by tribal communities in these areas.

6 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

025246   LIANG Y, DONG W, WU X, XIE W (Jilin Univ, Changchun- 13002,China, Email: dongweihong@jlu.edu.cn) : Changes and vertical distribution characteristics of soil organic carbon in different land cover types in Honghe wetland of Sanjiang Plain, China. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1055-62.

Soil organic carbon (SOC) responds rapidly to changes in land cover types, and changes in SOC provide essential guidance for sustainable utilization of land resources and protection of wetlands. The vertical distribution of SOC under different land cover types in Honghe wetland was analysed through soil samples and remote sensing interpretation. Changes in SOC under different land cover types were assessed in 2002 and 2014. The results showed that wetland and meadow were the primary land cover types in Honghe wetland. The reduction in normalized difference vegetation index from 2002 to 2014 was mainly due to wetland and meadow area changes. The SOC contents under different land cover types followed the order: wetland > meadow > forest land > dry field > paddy field in the 0–15 cm soil layer. With increase in soil depth from 0 to 60 cm, SOC contents tended to decrease. According to preliminary estimations, the SOC stocks of wetland, meadow, forest land, paddy field and dry field in the soil profile from 0 to 60 cm were 4.39 X 10⁴ , 2.62 $\times$ 10⁴ , 2.66 $\times$ 10⁴ , 2.11 $\times$10⁴ and 1.98 $\times$10⁴ t/sq. km respectively. The total amount of SOC declined by about 364.8 Gg C in the 0–30 cm soil layer from 2002 to 2014, which resulted in the emission of 1338.82 Gg CO₂ to the atmosphere.

7 illus, 3 tables, 38 ref

025245   AHMED A (Farm Machinery and Post Harvest Technology Div, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi- 284 003, Email: akrambckv@gmail.com) : Scaling of hydraulic functions in heterogeneous soil using nonlinear least squares minimization method. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1046-54.

Presenting soil heterogeneity precisely in various spatial scales is the main key to simulate water and solute transport through it. The method described by Richards is mostly used to study water flow through vadose zone. It requires spatial representation of hydraulic functions and water retention relationship in the soil. To represent the spatial relationship of soil hydraulic functions, scaling approach is being used since the last few decades. In this study, a simple scaling method using nonlinear least squares minimization technique has been used to scale soil matric potential, hydraulic conductivity as well as simultaneous scaling of soil matric potential and hydraulic conductivity data. Simultaneous scaling is necessary as it reduces the volume of data by producing a single set of scale factors for hydraulic functions in a heterogeneous soil. Van Genuchten’s semi-empirical expressions were used in this study to parameterize soil hydraulic functions. Results showed that correlation coefficient from raw and descaled data was superior when soil matric potential and hydraulic conductivity data were scaled separately than simultaneously. Improvement of correlation coefficient in simultaneous scaling can be obtained by adding more weight to the soil matric potential data than unsaturated hydraulic conductivity data, which enhances the overall correlation coefficient in simultaneously scaling. Statistical analysis of the scale factors showed that they are lognormally distributed. Scale factors calculated by solving simple equations obtained using the method described in this study can be used to simulate water movement through heterogeneous soil conditions using HYDRUS model.

5 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

025244   MUTHYALA R, BALASUBRAMANIAN G, NALAM A (Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru- 560 012, Email: gbala@iisc.ac.in) : Regional scale analysis of climate extremes in an SRM geoengineering simulation, Part 2: temperature extremes. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1036-45.

In this study, we examine the statistics of temperature extremes in a model simulation of solar radiation management (SRM) geoengineering. We consider both intensity and frequency-based extreme indices for temperature. The analysis is performed over both large-scale domains as well as regional scales (22 Giorgi land regions). We find that temperature extremes are substantially reduced in geoengineering simulation: the magnitude of change is much smaller than that occur in a simulation with elevated atmospheric CO₂ alone. Large increase (~10–20 K) in the lower tails (0.1 percentile) of T_min and T_max in the northern hemisphere extra-tropics that are simulated under doubling of CO₂ are reduced in geoengineering simulation, but significant increase (~4–7 K) persist over high-latitude land regions. Frequency of temperature extremes is largely offset over land regions in geoengineered climate. We infer that SRM schemes are likely to reduce temperature extremes and the associated impacts on a global scale. However, we note that a comprehensive assessment of moral, social, ethical, legal, technological, economic, political and governance issues is required for using SRM methods to counter the impacts of climate change.

8 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

025243   MUTHYALA R, BALASUBRAMANIAN G, NALAM A (Geography Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru- 560 012, Email: gbala@iisc.ac.in) : Regional scale analysis of climate extremes in an SRM geoengineering simulation, Part 1: precipitation extremes. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1024-35.

In this study, we examine the statistics of precipitation extreme events in a model simulation of solar radiation management (SRM) geoengineering. We consider both intensity and frequency-based extreme indices for precipitation. The analysis is performed over both large-scale domains as well as regional scales (22 Giorgi land regions). We find that precipitation extremes are substantially reduced in geoengineering simulation: the magnitude of change is much smaller than those that occur in a simulation with elevated atmospheric CO₂ alone. In the geoengineered climate, though the global mean of the intensity of extreme precipitation events is slightly less than in control climate, substantial changes remain on regional scales. We do not find significant changes in the frequency of precipitation extremes in geoengineering simulation compared to control simulation on global and regional scales. We infer that SRM schemes are likely to reduce precipitation extremes and the associated impacts on a global scale. However, we note that a comprehensive assessment of moral, social, ethical, legal, technological, economic, political and governance issues is required for using SRM methods to counter the impacts of climate change.

8 illus, 1 table, 52 ref

025242   BERMA D K, VIMAL B K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, BAU, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Email: dkvermabhu@gmail.com) : Assessment of ground water, quality for drinking purposes of Jagdishpur block of Bhagalpur district, Bihar - A case study. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 461-8.

Quality of water is an important issue rises in present situation. Increase the demand of the water for drinking and other uses are reduce the quality as well as quantity of ground water due to increase the human population and increase the ground water contamination through natural and anthropogenic sources. Jagdishpur Block of Bhagalpur district which is situated in the Indogangetic plains of Bihar the present study was put forth. Global Positioning System (GPS) based 45 ground water samples were collected from the different areas of Jagdishpur Block of Bhagalpur district (N-25.10´57´´ E-086.58´857´´), Bihar, India. The samples were slightly saline (EC 0.63- 1.65 dS m^–1), in nature and alkaline in reaction (pH 7.32– 8.67). The cationic elements Ca²⁺ (52.1–151.5 mg l^–1), Mg²⁺ (21.7–88.9 mg l^–1) were reported to be in excess of the permissible limits and Na⁺ (3.8–22.9 mg l^–1) and K⁺ (0.50–5.1 mg l^–1) under the permissible limit. Anionic elements like Cl^– (3.25–28.74 mg l^–1) under the permissible level whereas CO₃ ^2– (0.0–0.0075 mg l^–1), HCO₃ ^– (0.0–0.0366 mg l^–1) were under the permissible limits and F^– (0.3–4.6 mg l^–1) was higher in some of the areas. The fluoride content of some of the samples (25 samples) were found higher than the permissible limit (1.5 mg l^–1, according to WHO standards) representing the fluoride contamination in the few villages of Jagdishpur Block. Regarding the irrigation water quality, SAR (Sodium adsorption ratio) and RSC (Residual sodium carbonate) value of water were 0.43– 2.26 and –229.18 to –101.36 respectively, which are under safe category as per guidelines given by US Soil Salinity Laboratory.

3 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

025241   KUMAR D, SINGH P K, KOTHARI M, SINGH R S, YADAV K K (SWE Dep, MPUAT, Rajasthan- 313 001, Email: dheerajtejwan@gmail.com) : Ground water quality study of pre monsoon in upper berach river basin, Rajasthan state. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 397-404.

The present study was conducted to study suitability of ground water for irrigation purposes. The water samples for the physico-chemical analysis were collected from the open well of the 95 locations from Upper Berach river basin to analyzed for TDS, pH, EC, Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, SO₄ , CO₃ , HCO₃ and Soluble sodium percentage (SSP). Water quality index has been (WQI) calculated to evaluated the water quality of the river basin. The categorization of the ground water for irrigation was studies with the help of criteria given by Wilcox 1955. The mean concentration values for TDS, pH, EC Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, SO₄ , CO₃ , HCO₃ are observed 1397.99 mg/l, 7.9, 2.35, 3.73 mg/l, 7.62 mg/l, 12.63 mg/l, 0.70 mg/l, 14.41v, 3.56 mg/l, 0.15 mg/l and 6.01 mg/l respectively. ARC/GIS-10.1 software was utilized to show the spatil variation of WQI.

1 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

024360   GIRI R, NATH G (Physics Dep, Veer Surendra Sai Univ of Technology, Burla- 768 018, Email: ganesh_nath99@yahoo.co.in) : Physico chemical study on extraction of uranium. Indian J Pure Appl Phy 2017, 55(12), 873-80.

In extraction technology, the sample pretreatment and particle disruption is an important aspects for analysis of extraction efficiency of any blended chemicals. This analytical study can be performed with the propagation of high energy ultrasound due to its characteristic property like high frequency and high wavelength comparable to atomic and subatomic dimension. This paper describes the effect of ultrasonic wave and sonication effect for extraction of uranyl nitrate with optimum blended solvent methyl iso-butyl ketone (MIBK). The result of physico-chemical properties well establishes the supporting environment for extraction of uranium (IV) from uranyl nitrate using 40 % of MIBK at room temperature and for the low frequency ultrasonic wave.

9 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

024359   PANAHI A, CHEGINI V, SADRINASAB M, NAJJARPOR M A (Marine Science and Technology Univ, Iran, Email: arsalanpanahi@gmail.com) : Spectral analysis of wind waves using field data in Strait of Hormuz. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(03), 729-35.

Present study consists the analysis of extreme wind wave spectrum in Strait of Hormuz. Data was measured by Port and Maritime organization from 2009 to 2011 in “Monitoring and Modeling Study of Coastal Zone of Persian Gulf” project framework. Wave measurement instrument type was AWAC under sea equipment which has been implanted at 25 m depth. Data records analyzed by computer program in STORM, MATLAB and SPSS environments for quality controlling and identifying wave spectrum characteristics like spectrum dispersal, directional spectrum, multi peak spectrum, spectrum shape, parameters of spectrum and spectral classification. Model parameters of JONSWAP and PM spectra were estimated for the observed spectra by using the least square error method.

12 illus, 5 tables, 16 ref

024358   AZIR D Y, UNVER I, KOSE E, BEKIRYAZICI Z (Karadeniz Technical Univ, Turkey, Email: dyazir@ktu.edu.tr) : Modelling of cohesive ?sediment depositional areas carried by the Solakli river to the eastern Black-Sea. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(03), 721-8.

In this study, cohesive sediment depositional areas carried by the Solaklı River to the Eastern Black-Sea are examined in the marine environment. Effects of changes in the amount of cohesive sediment entering the sea from Solaklı River, sediment drift velocity, direction and magnitude of wind-stream components are observed. For high sediment drift velocity, it is found that the affects of wind-stream components on deposition areas of cohesive sediment are very little. According to the results of the study, entrance angle of the stream mouth effects the deposition areas of sediment in the marine environment. Cohesive sediment depositional areas are examined on the charts by changing one of the parameters in the sediment transport model while keeping others constant.

12 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

024357   SHAH P, SAJEEV R, SANTHOSH K M, THARA K J, SHAFEEQUE M, JOHN K L, GEORGE G (Physical Oceanography Dep, Cochin Univ of Science and Technology, Kochi- 682 016, Email: phirosshah85@gmail.com) : Observed signals of upwelling and downwelling along the west coast of India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(03), 604-12.

Present study indicates the extension of upwelling to the northern part of the west coast of India. Upwelling along the southwest coast of India starts at the southern tip during April, propagates northward as the summer monsoon progresses and ends by September. However along the northwest coast, the upwelling intensifies during August and continues till October. The southwest coast is characterized by downwelling during October to March, whereas along the northwest coast upwelling comes to an end by November and sinking occurs during December to March. Compared to the northwest coast, both upwelling and downwelling are stronger along the southwest coast of India. During the peak southwest and northeast monsoon, magnitude of the mean vertical velocity with respect to 100 m depth is 2.15 × 10^-5 m/s and 0.76 × 10^-5 m/s along the southwest and northwest coast, respectively.

13 illus, 29 ref

024356   BHARATHI M D, SUNDARAMOORTHY S, PATRA S, MADESWARAN P, SUNDARAMANICKAM A (Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management Project Directorate, Chennai - 600 100, Email: bharathi.manuri@gmail.com) : Seasonal and spatial distribution of heterotrophic bacteria in relation to physico-chemical properties along Ennore coastal waters. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(03), 587-97.

Water samples were examined for total viable count and pollution indicator bacteria (total coliform, fecal coliform, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus faecalis). Salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, nutrients and Chlorophyll-a were examined to assess the physico-chemical condition of water. Statistically, insignificant seasonal variation was found in bacterial populations. Average abundances (CFU/ml) of the different heterotrophic bacteria of surface waters were: total viable count (2.1 × 106), total coliforms (1.3 × 105), fecal coliforms (1.5 × 104), Escherichia coli (1.1 × 104) and Streptococcus faecalis (0.4 × 104). Spatially, the higher bacterial population was recorded in creek and shore regions with high concentration of nutrients. Significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between bacterial population and the nutrient concentration which suggest that elevated nutrient load favors the bacterial growth. However, bacterial populations showed positive correlations with biological oxygen demand, and negative relationship (p < 0.05) with salinity, indicating the dominating influence of anthropogenic activities in the coastal area.

4 illus, 2 tables, 62 ref

024355   XI Z, DAZHONG R, HAI H, WEI S (Geology Dep, Northwest Univ, Xi'an- 710 069, China, Email: zhangxin8899a@qq.com) : Microscopic pore structure characteristics and logging response characteristics of different diagenetic facies reservoirs and their impact on the distribution of high quality reservoirs. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(03), 567-79.

Distribution of high quality diagenetic facies is controlled jointly by sedimentary facies, diagenesis and pore structure, and especially throat distribution is the main factor for controlling sandstone reservoir permeability. Reservoir in the hydromica cementation--residual intergranular pore facies and hydromica cementation--feldspar corrosion facies is distributed mainly in semi-deep lacustrine gravity flow composite channel turbidites; fine--tiny throats are developed, the connectedness of pore throats is good, and their percolation capacity is the best; oil and water are of relatively uniform seepage flow, and the oil and gas in pores are produced via throats extremely easily. The reservoir in the chlorite cementation facies and hydromica cementation weak corrosion facies is located in the margin of branch channels and distributed in island shape; the pore throat radius is small but is distributed uniformly, and the percolation capacity of pore throats is medium to bad. Reservoir in the carbonate cementation facies and carbonate + hydromica cementation facies is developed mainly between branch channels; the development degree of the pore structure is low, throats are fine and small, and pore throat connectedness is bad; the oil and gas rich in pores are difficult to pass small throats, and the recovery ratio is low.

8 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

024354   REBEKAH S, INAMDAR A B (Geography Dep, Madras Univ, Chennai- 600 005, Email: rebysam@gmail.com) : Mapping the distribution of coral reef extent and its temporal variation in Gulf of Mannar ? Comparison of pixel and object based approach. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(03), 549-57.

In spectral based image analysis supervised classification was done using minimum distance through ERDAS Imagine 2013. On the other hand object based analysis was performed using nearest neighbourhood classifier through eCognition software. The results of classified images shown that object based approach gave more accurate results than spectral based classification algorithm.

14 illus, 25 ref

024353   SANTHANAKRISHNAN T, LAKSHMANAN C, RADHAKRISHNAN V (Marine Science Dep, Bharathidasan Univ, Tiruchirappalli – 620 0024, Email: vrkgeologist@gmail.com) : Mineralogical composition and microalgae communities of solar salt tumuli from Tuticorin, Southeast coast of India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 498-502.

The present work deals with the microbial population and mineralogical composition of solar salt pan tumuli (gypsum crust). Tumuli containing multicolor layered microbial communities develop in the crystallizer ponds of commercial salterns. The upper crust is densely populated by orange unicellular cyanobacteria. Below is a layer of green- colored filamentous cyanobacteria. Bacillariophyta and Chlorophyta groups are also identified microscopically. X-ray powder diffractometer (XRD) patterns and the intensity peaks observed in tumuli indicated the predominance of gypsum, calcite and halite along with other associated minor minerals viz; quartz, chlorite, kaolinite, ilmenite and illite are confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis of tumuli was also carried. Associated occurrence of mineralogical composition and microbial communities are highlighted and investigated.

5 illus, 27 ref

024352   SHIVA SHANKAR V, DHARANIRAJAN K, MANAHORAN K (Disaster Management Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Port Blair - 744 103, Email: shivashankar_vj@yahoo.co.in) : Quantification of hydro-meteorological balance around Port Blair, South Andaman, India, using soil water balance model?. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 456-63.

Forest cover in the area under investigation was 79.55 % in the year 1979 resulting in 69.85 % of evapotranspiration and 39 % of rainfall divulging itself as runoff into the adjacent sea. 37.83 % of increase in human settlement and 17 % increase in plantation activity had reduced the forest cover to 41.42 %. This forest denudation has increased the runoff to 54 % and the reduced evapotranspiration to 41.5 % by the year 2013. Evapotranspiration are high during the dry spell between January to April. Also no runoff and no ground water recharge were observed during these periods of the dry spell. On the contrary evapotranspiration is at its minimum during the wet months between May to September. Heavy rainfall triggers high runoff and ground water table is replenished.

6 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

024351   SANKAR R, SACHITHANANDAM V, THENMOZHI C, MAGESWARAN T, SRIDHAR R, ANANTHAN G (Annamalai Univ, Tamil Nadu- 608 502, Email: pondiunisachin@gmail.com) : Assessment of physio-chemical characteristics of coastal water in Parangipettai and Nagapattinam, South east coast of India using statistical approaches. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 443-52.

In order to understand the relative importance and elucidated seasonal variation samples were collected from two stations at monthly intervals. The results of ANOVA suggested that temperature and salinity shows significant variation from station-wise as well as season wise. From the Box plot analysis, it is inferred that the changes in the physio-chemical parameters are mainly due to climatic change, anthropogenic activity and urbanization and these play a key role in changes in the water column.

6 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

024350   HE C, LOU A, FANG X, LIU Y (China Ocean Univ, China-266 100, Email: hechengqi12@gmail.com) : Simulating summer circulation and water exchange in the Beibu Gulf. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 346-54.

A cyclonic gyre and a semi-closed anti-cyclonic gyre exist respectively in the north and south of Beibu Gulf. Water exchange is calculated using tracer-tracking model in FVCOM via adding an imaginary conservative material as the tracer material. After circularly using the wind condition of August 2012 for 800 days, we get spatial and temporal distribution of the tracer concentration of Beibu Gulf of summer in 2012. Forced by circulation, Qiongzhou Strait, Da Nang sea area and Sanya sea area are main mass transport galleries of Beibu Gulf. The half exchange period of the Beibu Gulf in summer is 518 days while the value of average residence time is 588 days. Considering that summer lasts for 3 months, water exchange rate of the whole gulf is 13.73 %.

12 illus, 30 ref

024349   KUMAR S B, MOHANTY A K, PADHI R K, SELVANAYAGAM M, SATPATHY K K (Environment Safety Div, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam- 603 102, Email: satpathy@igcar.gov.in) : Coastal water characteristics along Tamil Nadu, east coast of India during pre-northeast monsoon period. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 308-18.

A study was carried out to characterize the coastal waters along Tamil Nadu during the pre-northeast monsoon period. A significant spatial variation in coastal water characteristics with respect to physico-chemical parameters was observed, indicating the different level of anthropogenic influence at different study sites. Sampling locations near to the mega city Chennai (Ennore and Pattinapakkam) showed relatively high concentrations of almost all the nutrients due to significant anthropogenic inputs in terms of house hold wastes and industrial effluents through the Adyar and Cooum rivers. A clear decreasing trend in nitrate and phosphate was observed from the northern to southern region of the study area, typifying the signature of pollution in the northern regions. Positive correlations among all the nutrients indicated their common source of origin through external input by the river estuaries and backwaters. Cluster analysis clearly established the presence of a polluted zone (near to Chennai), a buffering zone (Kovalam and Kalpakkam) and a least effected environment in the southern region (Marakanam, Poombukar, Pondicherry and Parangipettai) of the study area.

4 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

024348   SAHOO R K, MOHANTY P K, PRADHAN S, PRADHAN U K, SAMAL R N (Berhampur Univ, Berhampur-760 007, Email: pratap_mohanty@yahoo.com) : Bed sediment characteristics and transport processes along the inlet channel of Chilika Lagoon (INDIA). Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 301-7.

Bed sediment samples were collected along the 9.5 km long inlet channel of Chilika lagoon, east coast of India during low freshwater discharge and low rainfall condition. Distributions of bed sediment along with its texture were studied in detail. Bivariate plots between mean, sorting, skewness and kurtosis of sediments revealed definite grouping pattern. The study, through C-M plot, indicates that the prime factors for transportation of sediment within inlet channel of Chilika lagoon are rolling and bottom suspension during period of low discharge and low rainfall (November-June). Sustainable conservation and management of wetlands require information on its past, present and future.

3 illus, 2 tables, 46 ref

024347   SONG D, LIANG S, WANG Z (Lanzhou Univ, Lanzhou-730 000, China, Email: shouyunl@163.com) : The influence of reservoir filling on a preexisting bank landslide stability. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 291-300.

A new monitoring instrument (automatic GPS) was used to understand the relationship between the stability of landslide and the hydrological triggering factors in the process of reservoir filling. These factors were drawn from a study that reported on the relationship between surface movement and hydrological triggers of a typical reservoir landslide (Yanziping landslide) in Jiudian Gorge Reservoir (JGR). A Fast Moving Zone (FMZ) can be spatially identified from the Main Deformation Zone (MDZ), and the temporal evolution of the landslide consists of a progression in time with short periods of Fast Movement (FM) and longer periods of slower movement. The results indicate that three FMs could be identified, which are triggered by different factors. The continuous rapid water rise will definitely trigger FMs with the rainfall being the secondary role and the longer duration of rapid water rise is not conducive to the stability of landslide in the phase of 70~100 m. Rapid drawdown of reservoir water level also triggers FMs from 100 to 130 m. Besides, there is a lag time of approximately 5 days between FMs and rapid water rise. A most dangerous water level for the landslide movement also can be identified approximately 80 m. The sliding mode was changed by reservoir water storage. Near-real-time monitoring by GPS can provide more reliable and timely data, which is significantly important for disaster prevention and mitigation.

10 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

024346   ZHENG J, WANG Z, ZHONG Z, ZHAI N, LIU Y (Southwest Petroleum Univ, Chengdu-610 500, Email: zhengjian0220@126.com) : Development pattern and reservoir-formation mechanism of reef-bank complex in Late Ordovician Lianglitage formation, Tazhong area, Tarim Basin, China. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(02), 269-80.

Present study consists the development pattern of reef-bank complex and its reservoir formation mechanism. The earliest Ordovician coral-stromatoporoids reef-building organisms are found in Lianglitage Formation, which fills the blank of Late Ordovician organic reef in China. Type of sedimentary microfacies, combination form and scale differentiation of reef-bank complex in Lianglitage Formation are controlled by high-frequency sea-level change and multi-stage tectonic evolution. In vertical direction, four or five periods of reef-back motivated inside out of platform margin of Lianglitage Formation. Besides that, reef-bank complex is linear and clumped distributed along Tazhong NO.1 fault belt on horizontal direction. High-energy reef-bank in platform margin controlled distribution of favourable reservoir lithofacies. Karstification in syngenetic-supergene stage is the key factor for the development of high-quality vuggy reservoir. Hercynian deep fluid that migrating along the faults, fractures and previous vuggy layers greatly improve the reservoir property of reef-bank carbonates during the buried process.

7 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

024345   KALAIVANAN K, GURUGNANAM B, ISAI R (Deemed Univ, Tamil Nadu, Email: kalai.geo87@gmail.com) : Automated drainage extraction using spatial technologies, Kodavanar river basin, South India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(01), 228-30.

Extraction of Drainage through the SRTM data using ArcGIS technique to delineate was attempted in this paper. This automated extraction tool will create the possible drainage pattern in the study area. The objective the model to obtain drainage network. Objective of this investigation is to compare the drainage extracted from Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data with matching from Google Earth image of Kodavanar River basin. The analysis reveals that the drainage extracted from the SRTM digital elevation model (DEM) is having an area of 2254.65 km². This study reveals the importance peculiarity of drainage network derived from the SRTM using the Arc Hydro Tool.

4 illus, 11 ref

024344   NITHYA P, DHANALAKSHMI B, SATHANAM P, KUMAR S D (Zoology Dep, Nirmala Coll for Women, Coimbatore- 641 018, Email: sanplankton@yahoo.co.in) : Pre-monsoon and monsoon seasonal changes in physico-chemical characteristics of Chinnamuttom and Colachel harbour waters, Southeast coast of India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(01), 193-9.

Seasonal variations in physico-chemical parameters such as atmospheric temperature, surface water temperature (ºC), pH, salinity (psu) and dissolved oxygen (mg L^-1) in Chinnamuttom and Colachel harbours waters were 26-33 (S₁), 26-32.3 (S₂); 23.6-26.8 (S₁), 23.2 -26.4 (S₂); 7.44 -8.12 (S₁), 7.46 -8.11 (S₂); 27.1 -33.5 (S₁), 27-33 (S₂); 3.8-5.3 (S₁), 4.1-5.6 (S₂) respectively. Ranges of inorganic nutrients (mg L ^-1 ) viz., phosphate, nitrite, nitrate, reactive silicate and ammonia were 0.59-1.96 (S₁); 0.56-1.93 (S₂); 0.79-1.77 (S₁), 0.63 -1.74 (S₂); 0.097-0.4 (S₁), 0.095-0.38 (S₂ ); 0.65-0.77 (S₁), 0.64-0.77 (S₂); 0.01-0.03 (S₁), 0.014-0.032 (S₂) respectively. Physico-chemical parameters of harbour waters have obtained important seasonal and spatial variations. Due to increased harbour activities in both the selected study sites over the last decades, there has been a lot of anthropogenic stress on the aquatic ecosystem. There is an urgent need to evaluate the pollution status of selected harbour waters so as to protect marine life and to minimize the impact of port and shipping activities on surrounding ecosystem.

2 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

024343   SHANKAR S, DHARANIRAJAN (Disaster Management Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Port Blair- 744 103, Email: shivashankar_vj@yahoo.co.in) : A study on the drainage morphometry of the strategic Kalpong river watershed, North Andaman, India using geographic information system. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(01), 185-92.

Present study using Geographical Information System strongly suggests that the Kalpong watershed is susceptible to soil erosion and increased runoff with greater flow velocity. Increased runoff potential and greater flow velocity is positively compensated with the establishment of the Kalpong hydro-electric plant and setting a finest example of sustainable development in an island ecosystem. Mangrove have luxuriantly colonized in the Aerial Bay where the nutrient rich sediments are discharged at the mouth of Kalpong river articulating Darwin’s theory of natural selection and thus forming a natural shield against tsunami and storm surges.

1 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

024342   DEHMORDI L M, SAVARI A, DOSTSHENAS A, ASGARI H M, ABASI A (Fisheries Dep, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia Univ of Technology, Behbahan, Iran, Email: lalehmosavi84@yahoo.com) : Remote chlorophyll-a, SST and kd490 retrieval in Northwest Persian gulf using landsat 8 satellite data. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(01), 148-69.

The objective of this research was to develop a model for estimating chlorophyll-a concentration, SST and kd(490) on the Northwest Persian gulf by means of a high resolution landsat8 image. Field studies were conducted monthly (two months of every season of year including Feb, March, April, May, July, August, Oct and Nov) from water concurrent with the passage of satellite in Mousa estuaies on 14th Feb 2014 to 13th Nov 2014 from 3 station located in the northwest Persian gulf. Temperature, Secchi disk depth, chl-a, kd and zeu was measured in this study. The Chl-a concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 1.6 mg m⁻³, with an average of 0.6 ± 0.42 mg m⁻³. Only two algorithms OC-2 and Morel-3 could meet the requirements of the evaluation criteria. The values for Kd (490) were highest (0.86) in July and lowest (0.59m) in February. The optimal SST model was found in this zone. The retrieval accuracy (R2) was 0.63, while the root mean square (RMSE) was 0.81. The highest (31 °c) temperature was found in July and lowest temperature(15.1 °c) was found in Feb. There was a significant positive correlation between Kd (490) and chl-a. There was a significant positive correlation between SST and chl-a.

14 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

024341   NASNODKAR M R, NAYAK G N (Marine Sciences Dep, Goa Univ, Taleigao – 403 206, Email: nayak1006@rediffmail.com) : Source of sediment components and processes with time in middle regions of tropical estuaries along west coast of India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(01), 114-26.

To understand the source of materials and processes operating, the sediment cores collected from mudflats representing middle region of Sharavathi and Gurupur estuaries were analysed for grain size, organic carbon, clay mineralogy, bulk metals and clay chemistry. Relatively higher concentration of sand in the Sharavathi and higher clay and organic carbon content in the Gurupur estuary indicated variations in the depositional environment between the two estuaries. Further, higher sand in middle section and silt in the upper section in Sharavathi and Gurupur estuaries respectively indicated variations in the depositional conditions with time in both the estuaries. The kaolinite was the most abundant clay mineral, and the abundance and distribution of clay minerals in the two estuaries revealed the role of catchment area geology and river-sea water mixing conditions as major factors in sediment deposition. All the metals showed similar distribution pattern to finer sediments and organic carbon in the Sharavathi estuary, indicating their role in distribution of metals. Also, significant association of metals with Al suggested their natural source in this estuary. Similar distribution pattern of metals with Al in the clay fraction also supported lithogenic source of metals in the Sharavathi estuary. In the Gurupur estuary, role of sediment components was limited in the distribution of metals and insignificant association of metals with Al suggested their non-natural source. Non-similar distribution pattern of metals to that of Al in the clay fraction of the Gurupur estuary and their insignificant association with Al indicated metals source as anthropogenic.

5 illus, 6 tables, 45 ref

024340   SHAREEF N M, DINESH A C, VENKATESWARA R, JAYAPRAKASH C, RAJARAMA K N, SAJU V, DRISHYA G (Marine & Coastal Survey Div, Geological Survey of India, Kolkata-700 091, Email: shareef_n123@rediffmail.com) : Evidences of shallow marine sediments as channel fill in the lower Indus fan. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(01), 67-72.

Coarse fraction, micropalaeontological and micro textural studies carried out on four gravity cores collected from Lower Indus fan reveled the extension of channel and levee system in the Indus Fan beyond 13˚20’N lat. This is further supported by the presence of channels and levees in the bathymetric profile. Moreover, the presence of sand layers indicates pulses of turbidity currents and deposition of sand as channel fills. Various microtextures observed on the sand grain surfaces and their shape indicate the grains have traveled a long very rapidly before reaching the depositional environment. Occurrence of shallow water forms in distal part of the fan hitherto not reported as well as subrounded nature of some of the quartz grains revealed that the sediments are derived from shallow marine environment. Furthermore, presence of these sediments also reveals that sheet flow deposits are the predominant along with channel- levee sediments.

5 illus, 17 ref

024339   DEKA S (Cotton Univ, Panbazar- 781 001, Email: surobhi1965@gmail.com) : Determination of the order of a Markov chain for daily rainfall data of north east India: Application AIC criterion. J Appl Nat Sci 2018, 10(1), 80-7.

The paper aims at demonstrating the application of the Akaike information criterion to determine the order of two state Markov chain for studying the pattern of occurrence of wet and dry days during the rainy season (April to September) in North-East India. For each station, each day is classified as dry day if the amount of rainfall is less than 3 mm and wet day if the amount of rainfall is greater than or equal to 3 mm. We apply Markov chain of order up to three to the sequences of wet and dry days observed at seven distantly located stations in North East region of India. The Markov chain model of appropriate order for analyzing wet and dry days is determined. This is done using the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) by checking the minimum of AIC estimate. Markov chain of order one is found to be superior to the majority of the stations in comparison to the other order Markov chains. More precisely, first order Markov chain model is an adequate model for the stations North Bank, Tocklai, Silcoorie, Mohanbari and Guwahati. Further, it is observed that second order and third order Markov chains are competing with first order in the stations Cherrapunji and Imphal, respectively. A fore-knowledge of rainfall pattern is of immense help not only to farmers, but also to the authorities concerned with planning of irrigation schemes. The outcomes are useful for taking decisions well in advance for transplanting of rice as well as for other input management and farm activities during different stages of the crop growing season.

1 illus, 9 tables, 30 ref

024338   AL-ZAIDY A A H (Geology Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: aiadgeo@yahoo.com) : Facies analysis and stratigraphic development of the Nahrumr formation in Luhais oil field, southern Iraq. Bull Pure Appl Sci- Sect F 2018, 37F(1), 77-87.

The Clastic succession of NahrUamr Formations is deposited during the Albian stage within the Early Cretaceous epoch. The present study includes the facies analysis and stratigraphic development for the NahrUmr Formation in three boreholes (Lu-1, Lu-3, and Lu-12) within the Luhais oil field. Two types of successions are observed within the NahrUmr Formation; the first is the upper part which characterized by shale dominated rocks and the second (lower part) is characterized by sand dominated rocks. Five major lithofacies are recognized in this succession as follow:-well sorted quartz arenite lithofacies; poorly sorted quartz arenite lithofacies; poorly sorted graywacke lithofacies; sandy shale lithofacies and shale lithofacies. Four facies associations (depositional environments) are distinguished in the NahrUmr Formation, they are: fluvial channel, shoreface, delta plain, and distributary channels. The microfacies analysis and reconstructed the paleo environments for the Albian basin in the studied area has contributed to determine two stages of the deposition: - The first stage is showed clear when the facies development from the fluvial channel to the shore face association facies within the sand dominated unit of NahrUmr Formation (lower unit). This succession is representing transgression system tracts (TST), which was ended with appeared the shale lithofacies within the well sorted quartz arenite facies to mark the maximum flooding surface (mfs). The deposition was continued during still stand sea level to develop at last to delta plain association and start the second stage. The second stage is started with the delta plain in Lu-3 and Lu-12 but the distributary channel in the Lu-1 which represent high-stand system tract (HST) within the upper unit. This pattern of deposition (HST) continued until a change in depositional environment from delta plan to a distributary channel in all studied wells to became TST. The clear change in the lithofacies from the shale dominated (delta plain association) to sand dominated lithofacies to became high maturity fine grained sandstone (distributary channel), that onset to sea level rise. Therefore, the upper part of the upper unit is representing the TST, which it was continue to deposition of the Mauddud Formation during the sea progress.

6 illus, 13 ref

024337   SOLANKI D, KULSHRESHTHA V, DEV P (School of Studies in Earth Science, Vikram Univ, Madhya Pradesh- 456 010, Email: drpdev@yahoo.com) : Variation analysis of ground water levels in Barwani environs, Barwani district, Madhya Pradesh, India. Bull Pure Appl Sci- Sect F 2018, 37F(1), 65-76.

The paper presents an account of seasonal variation analysis of ground water levels measured in the dug wells of Barwani study area confined to the Barwani district, Madhya Pradesh, India. Barwani area is occupied by basaltic lava flows of the Deccan Trap Volcanic Province of Upper Cretaceous to Eocene period. The measurements of static water levels in respect of 60 dug wells during post-monsoon and pre-monsoon periods have been recorded and displayed. Post- monsoon static water levels range from 1 m. b.g.l. (Pichori and Borlai) to 11 m b.g.l. (Sisgone) whereas, the Pre - monsoon static water levels range from 5 m.b.g.l. (Bajrikheda Govt.) to 17 m.b.g.l. (Barwani). The fluctuation range of 2 m (Sajwani, Talun, Talun Govt., Piplaj and Bajrikheda) to 10 m (Barwani, Sajwani, Sajwani and Lonsara) has been recognized during the post- and pre-monsoon periods. The variation of ground water levels can be assigned to the topography, geology, over –exploitation and amount of rainfall recharge. The ground water level contour maps constructed for Post- and Pre-monsoon periods help in demarcation of favorable ground water potential zones in vicinities of Rajghat, Chikalda, Gangle, Dehdola, Bhilkheda, Kasrawad, Balkar, Bomia, Boribdhan and Lonsara villages of the Barwani study area.

4 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

024336   HEMAMALINI C G, ARJUN M, KUMAR S M, KRISHNA P R M, KRISHNA S P (Civil Engineering Dep, Easwari Engineering Coll, Tamil Nadu- 600 089, Email: cghemamalini72@gmail.com) : Sub surface investigation using electrical resistivity method ? A case study from SRM institution, Ramapuram, Chennai (T.N), India. Bull Pure Appl Sci- Sect F 2018, 37F(1), 54-64.

The geophysical investigation is a fundamental study to illustrate the physical characteristics of the sub surface within the chosen sites. The study includes sub surface investigation using vertical electrical sounding (VES) by Schlumberger configuration in SRM Institution, Ramapuram, Chennai. The significance of the study is to assess the thickness of the aquifer and sub surface layers to evaluate their hydraulic characteristics. The study area is located at Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. The total extent of the campus is about 16 acres. It is located between North Latitudes 13° 02' 03.66" N and 13° 01' 53.89" N and between East Longitudes 80° 10' 37.22" E and 80° 10' 53.84" E. The objective of the investigation is to identify the sub surface layers for further study of finding suitable locations of groundwater potential for pumping and recharge.

16 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

024335   JANAIAH R (Geology Dep, Osmania Univ, Telangana- 500 007, Email: janaiah_rachamalla@yahoo.com) : Petrology and geochemistry of granites in and around Narketpalle Mandal, Nalgonda district, T.S., India. Bull Pure Appl Sci- Sect F 2018, 37F(1), 38-53.

Granites of Narketpalle area are located close to Hyderabad, have been selected for a systematic study. Petrographic studies and nodal analyses were carried out on granites of Narketpalle area to decipher the crustal evolution. These studies indicate that the original magmatic structures have been completely obliterated, because of the onset of subsequent petrogenetic processes. Further, replacement structures and textural intergrowth of perthite and myrmekite are commonly observed. Seventeen representative granite samples were subjected to major elemental analysis and six samples have been analysed for trace elements. The data obtained and plotted for various binary, ternary diagrams and trends of the major oxides and trace elements are observed. Geochemical variation diagrams do not indicate any definite origin for the granites of the investigated area.

17 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

024334   SONAR M A, TRIBHUVAN P R, GOLEKAR R B (Geology Dep, Parvatibai Gurupad Dhere Art’s and Shri. Mahesh Janardan Bhosale Scien, Maharashtra- 415 703, Email: rbgolekar@gmail.com) : Hydrogeochemical characterization of groundwater from GP-8 (Godavari-Purna 8) watershed, Maharashtra (India): A GIS approach. Bull Pure Appl Sci- Sect F 2018, 37F(1), 18-37.

A comprehensive assessment on groundwater quality was carried out in GP-8 (Godavari- Purna 8) watershed, Maharashtra (India) to provide valuable information on current groundwater quality. Physicochemical parameters monitored seasonally (i.e. pre and post monsoon) in 2012, 2013 and 2014 were considered. Monitored parameters were compared with quality criteria for drinking water standards of India. Groundwater quality was also assessed for irrigation purpose. The average concentration of Ca⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺ and NO_3- are exceeded the permissible limit. The concentrations of other contaminants are well below the permissible limits. The groundwater is suitable for irrigation in terms of alkalinity, but is unsuitable for irrigation from the salinity point of view. Spatial distribution maps of various water quality constituents were prepared by interpolation using of Arc-GIS software. Distribution of various constituents in water samples from the study area indicate that TDS, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, chloride and nitrate ions beyond the maximum permissible limit. Accelerating the artificial recharge of rain water in to the groundwater is an important way of reducing contaminant concentrations. This study is important in providing comprehensive information on groundwater quality for decision makers.

19 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

024333   GOLEKAR R B, PATIL S N, MRUNALI J ,VAIDYA A, KAMBLE P, AMBURE R R (Geology Dep, Parvatibai Gurupad Dhere Art’s and Shri. Mahesh Janardan Bhosale Scien, Maharashtra- 415 703, Email: rbgolekar@gmail.com) : Chemico-mineralogical and petrographical study of natural zeolites and apophyllite in basalts from Deccan trap, Northern Maharashtra (India). Bull Pure Appl Sci- Sect F 2018, 37F(1), 1-17.

Natural Zeolites filling amygdales and veins in stone quarries of basaltic rocks near village Savada, Jalgaon districts, Maharashtra on the Deccan Trap, India have been studied by using Microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques and Scanning Electron Microscope (Fe-SEM). As of foregoing studies, the varieties of Zeolites viz. Stilbite and Mordenite and Apophyllite occur in the study area and their applications which are widely useful for various purposes are discussed in this paper. The field study and the overview are much more beneficial for society and planners where Zeolites can be used. The element composition data shows that descending trends were observed as O followed by C, Te, Ca, Si, Br, Na and K in Stilbite. Whereas in Apophyllite O is followed by Ca, Te, C, Si, K, Na and Br. On the other hand in mineral Mordenite trend observed as O followed by Si, Ca, Br, C, Na, K and Te. Mordenite shows orthorhombic crystals, Apophyllite shows tetragonal crystals and Stilbite exhibits monoclinic crystals.

16 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

023443   KATARA A, DEV P (School of Studies in Earth Science, Vikram Univ, Madhya Pradesh) : Quantitative geomorphic analysis of Thandla area, Jhabua district, Madhya Pradesh and its application in ground water exploration: A case study. Int J Multidiscipl Res Dev 2017, 4(12), 9-14.

The paper deals with the application of quantitative geomorphic analysis in the exploration strategy of ground water resource in Thandla area of Jhabua district, Madhya Pradesh, has been carried out on the basis of Survey of India Toposheet no. 46 I/12, on a 2cm = 1 km scale. The drainage basin has been divided into seven sub-basins A, B, C, D, E, F and G. The Linear, Areal and Relief parameters have been calculated. The determinations of morphometric variables include number and order of streams, length, width and area of the basin. The determinations of important parameters such as the Bifurcation ratio (1 to 7), Drainage density (1.33 to 2.28 1/km), Length of Overland flow (0.219 to 0.375 km), Stream frequency (1.716 to 3.302 1/km² ), Form factor (0.430 to 0.916), Circularity ratio (0.974 to1.35), Elongation ratio (10.68 to 19.18 km), Lemniscates (0.272 to 0.580), Basin relief (5 to 25 m), Relief ratio (0.588 to 3.809 m) and Ruggedness number (9.7 to 45.6) in respect of seven sub-basins of the study drainage basin have been determined. The application of morphometric parameters has been discussed. The morphometric data enables to locate favourable ground water potential locations in Thandla study area.

2 illus, 13 tables, 11 ref

023442   YADAV P, PUROHIT K C, RUDOLA A (Geography Dep, BGR Campus, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, Email: ypradeep26@rediffmail.com) : Correlation between sex-ratio and literacy rate in Deoria town : A geographical analysis. J Mount Res 2017, 12, 97-103.

This paper is an attempt to analyze the correlation between sex-ratio and literacy rate in Deoria town. Literacy and sex-ratio are two important demographic features of population. Literacy plays an important role in bringing equality in the sex-ratio. In this paper spearman’s rank correlation method has been used to analyse the relationship between sex ratio and literacy rate in Deoria town. The study reveals that there is moderate and positive correlation, p=0.014 between sex ratio and literacy rate in the town. It means high literacy rate, high sex ratio, both variables are independent of each other.

3 illus, 7 tables, 6 ref