014153   Bhimasankaram V L S (NO, , 12-13-75, Tarnaka House, Street No.4, Tarnaka, Hyderabad-570 017, Email: visbs@yahoo.com) : Does geophysics help locate diamond, gold and platinum?. Indian Mineralogist 2008, 42(1), 99-126.

8 illus, 45 ref

013162   Uma Shankar;Sain K (NO, National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 606, Email: umashankar_ngri@yahoo.com) : Heat flow variation from bottom simulating reflector in the Kerala-Konkan basin of the western continental margin of India. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(1), 110-5.

The base of the gas-hydrate stability field, representing the bottom simulating reflector or BSR, is observed over a closely spaced grid of multichannel seismic data in the Kerala-Konkan (KK) basin of the western continental margin of India (WCMI). The data reveal that gas-hydrates occur in the KK basin at places where water depth exceeds 1500 m. The thickness of the gas-hydrate stability field, inferred from BSR on seismic data, ranges between 190 and 340 m. The geothermal gradient, estimated from BSR, ranges from 40 to 60°C/km. The corresponding heat flow values vary between 36 to 54 mW/m². The result shows a seaward increase in geothermal gradient in the KK basin and brings out relatively high heat flow to the north and low heat flow in the south of the study area. The high heat flow distribution is explained by the decrease of sediment thickness proximal to the ocean/continent boundary.

013161   Bhattacharyya R;Verma P K;Majumkar T J (Earth Sciences and Hydrology Div, Marine and Earth Sciences Group, Re, Space Applications Centre (ISRO), Ahmedabad, Email: tjmajumdar@sac.isro.gov.in) : High resolution satellite geoids/gravity over the western Indian offshore for tectonics and hydrocarbon exploration. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(1), 116-25.

Consists of various satellite geoid/gravity maps of the western Indian offshore region and correlated with known tectonic features such as Bombay High, Chagos - Laccadive ridge complex, Laxmi ridge. The satellite-derived gravity maps have been compared with those of ship-borne gravity for validation purpose. Spectral analyses of gravity data over the study area brings out various components of interest, which could be correlated with subsurface features. The interpreted results indicate a positive correlation between the known geological elements and gravity field.

012101   Suyash Kumar;Pawar N J (Geology Dep, University of Pune, Pune-411 007, Email: njpawar@unipune.ernet.in) : Quantifying spatio-temporal variations in heavy metal enormity of groundwaters from Ankaleshwar area: GIS-based normalized difference dispersal index mapping. Curr Sci 2008, 94(7), 905-10.

Heavy metal dispersion in groundwaters of Ankaleshwar Industrial Estate, south Gujarat displays colossal temporal variability in both degree and space. In order to facilitate the quantitative measure for site-specific variations, Normalized Difference Dispersal Index (NDDI) maps for five environmentally sensitive heavy metals (Ni, Zn, Cu, Mn and Pb) were generated by clutching geochemical analyses and GIS-based raster images. Median NDDI value for Ni (0.92) illustrates utmost accretion, whereas that for Zn (-0.58) shows absolute dilution. Widespread enrichment is exhibited by Cu (0.87) and Mn (0.84), while Pb (-0.01) shows inconsequential accretion or attrition. Areas of high inconsistencies were linked to surface-polluting sources by overlaying spatial data on these maps. NDDI mapping is functional for evaluation and comparative assessment of spatio-temporal variations in polymetallic determinants. Frequency distribution and inter-element correlation analyses of the dataset display coherence with the procedure.

4 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

012100   Sorrentino L (Structural and Geotechnical Engineering Dep, Sapienza University, Via Antonio Gramsci, 53 00197 Rome, Italy) : Early entrance of dynamics in earthquake engineering: Arturo Danusso's contribution. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(1), 1-24.

In 1908, a 7.1 equivalent magnitude earthquake struck Southern Italy. During the following year, the scientific community produced a considerable number of contributions, which were also encouraged by two competitions. In both competitions, the highest recognition was given to a Piedmont engineer- Arturo Danusso. Danusso derived the closed form equation of the response of an undamped linear elastic single-degree-of-freedom system to harmonic excitation. Thus, he suggested how to design a one-storey structure in order to minimize the amplification of its ground acceleration. In addition, he studied the case of a two-degree-of-freedom system, determining its two eigenfrequencies and concluding that the motion of each of the two masses can be reduced to the linear combination of the motions of two ideal simple systems subjected to given base motions. Danusso was probably the first to propose a dynamic analysis method rather than static lateral force analysis method and, possibly for the first time in earthquake engineering, he stated that seismic demand does not depend upon the ground motion characteristics alone. Danusso correctly solved the equations, and made some correct statements without writing any equations, as given in this paper. In addition, a brief account on Danusso's life, Italian research after the 1908 earthquake, and Danusso's influence on later Italian earthquake engineering will be presented.

^iia6 illus, 130 ref

012099   Rai A;Rai S S;Gaur V K (National Centre of Experimental Mineralogy and Petrology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002, Email: akr_ncemp@yahoo.co.in) : Crustal stress patterns: analysis of Ps splitting for seismic anisotropy. Curr Sci 2008, 94(7), 911-15.

Broadband seismograms from seismic stations located on various geologic terranes of the south Indian shield, were analysed to determine the anisotropy characteristics of the underlying crust: orientation of the axes of symmetry and the degree of anisotropy. Analysis of the split measured in the deconvolved radial and transverse P-to-S converted components from the Moho indicates that the anisotropic axis lies approximately E-W in the high-grade Granulite stations and almost N-S in the adjoining low-grade Dharwar Craton, with an average split-time of about 0.34 ± 0.10 s. Observed directions of the vertically averaged anisotropy are in reasonably good agreement with the geologic expressions of the region, though not necessarily conforming with the plate velocity, indicating that their sources lie in the stress/strain fields accumulated in the crust.

5 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

012098   Prabhudesai R G;Joseph A;Mehra P;Agarvadekar Y;Tengali S;Vijaykumar (NO, National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula-403 004, Email: prabhu@nio.org) : Cellular-based and internet-enabled real-time reporting of the tsunami at Goa and Kavaratti Island due to M_w 8.4 earthquake in Sumatra on 12 September 2007. Curr Sci 2008, 94(9), 1151-7.

Tsunami at Goa (west coast of India) and Kavaratti Island (Lakshadweep archipelago) in the Arabian Sea, caused by the 12 September 2007 Sumatra earthquake, was reported from cellular-based sea-level gauges in real-time on the Internet designed and established by the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa. The tsunami arrived at Kavaratti Island and Goa after traveling nearly 5 h : 15 min and 8 h respectively, from the source region in Sunda trench. The maximum troughto-crest wave height at Kavaratti and Goa was ≈5 and 29 cm respectively, and the dominant period was about 43 min. Arrival of a detectable tsunami signal first at Kavaratti Island and 2 h : 45 min later at the shallower Goa coastal region (Verem jetty) of the mainland indicates the importance of having highsensitivity real-time monitoring and Internet-accessible sea-level stations on India's island locations for effective tsunami-warning purposes for the mainland.

5 illus, 27 ref

012097   Negi H S;Snehmani;Thakur N K;Sharma J K (NO, Snow and Avalanche Establishment, Chandigarh-160 036) : Estimation of snow depth and detection of buried objects using airborne ground penetrating radar in Indian Himalaya. Curr Sci 2008, 94(7), 865-70.

Study explores the utility of airborne Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) in rugged mountainous region, for the estimation of snow depth profile and detection of buried objects in the snow cover. After conducting the airborne GPR survey, the results obtained for snow depth and detection of buried objects were found to be in good agreement with the ground observations. These results would be helpful in providing important inputs in the future for better planning, execution and exploitation of airborne GPR survey technology for detailed study of snow-covered and glaciated remote areas of the Indian Himalaya.

7 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

012096   Mondal S K;Sastry R G;Pachauri A K;Gautam P K (Earth Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee-247 667, Email: rgss1fes@iitr.ernet.in) : High resolution 2D electrical resistivity tomography to characterize active Naitwar Bazar landslide, Garhwal Himalaya, India. Curr Sci 2008, 94(7), 871-5.

Active landslide investigation using 2D electrical resistivity tomography has been undertaken in the Garhwal Himalaya. Six electrical resistivity tomography profiles spanning the landslide were implemented. The resistivity tomograms reveal the presence of slip zones at a depth range of 10-20 m from the ground level. The inferred lithological depth sections clearly outline the importance of electrical resistivity tomography in landslide studies.

3 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

012095   MonaLisa;Khwaja A;Qasim Jan M (Earth Sciences Dep, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad-45320, Pakistan, Email: lisa_qau@yahoo.com) : The October 2005 Muzaffarabad earthquake: preliminary seismological investigations and probabilistic estimation of peak ground accelerations. Curr Sci 2008, 94(9), 1158-66.

Study is based on data obtained from the USGS and observatories in northern Pakistan for 251 earthquakes of magnitude ≥4.0 M for 8 October 2005 to 31 August 2006 period. Depth- and magnitude-based seismological characteristics and distribution pattern of the aftershocks define a 50 km wide NW-SE trending zone that extends for 200 km from the Main Mantle Thrust to the centre of the Hazara Kashmir Syntaxis. The focal mechanism solutions (FMS) of the main shock, and its two principal aftershocks having magnitude ≥6.0 M and located about 80 km NNW of the main shock, indicate thrusting to be the dominant mechanism with rupture planes having NW-SE trend and NE dip. This leads to the conclusion that the wedge-shaped NW-SE trending blind zone, referred to by earlier workers as Indus Kohistan Seismic Zone (IKSZ), has been activated. Proposes that the IKSZ does not end at the nose of the syntaxis, but extends further into it. However, more FMS data are required to confirm this. Seismic hazard assessment, using probabilistic approach, for Muzaffarabad has also been carried out. Following the normal practice, peak ground acceleration (PGA) values with 10% probability of exceedance in the 50 years, i.e. the return period of 475 years, have been determined using two appropriate attenuation equations. The PGA values of 0.10 and 0.13 g obtained from two equations are not so high for the next 50 years, but the site (Muzaffarabad) has poorly constructed structures and can experience considerable damage as compared to other less populated sites in the surroundings.

10 illus, 2 tables, 40 ref

012094   Lee V W (Civil and Environmental Engineering Dep, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-2531, U.S.A.) : Empirical scaling and regression methods for earthquake strong-motion response spectra. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(1), 39-69.

Spectral regression studies of four selected research groups, namely, Boore and co-workers at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in Menlo Park, California, Abrahamson and Silva at the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in California, Trifunac and co-workers at the Strong-Motion Group of the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, and Ambraseys and co-workers at the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine in London, England. Their scaling procedures are described, and their approaches are compared. All regression equations reviewed depend upon magnitude, distance, and local site conditions, though different groups used different database, definitions of magnitude, distance and site conditions. Among the many differences, one stands out: Boore and coworkers in 1997, Abrahamson and Silva in 1997, and later Ambraseys and co-workers in 2005 considered using fault-type scaling variables to differentiate among the motions from different fault mechanisms, while the USC Strong-Motion Group introduced a source-to-station path-type term.

2 illus, 22 tables, 129 ref

012093   Kawakami H;Mogi H;Tingatinga E A J (NO, Geosphere Research Institute, Saitama University, Saitama-338-8570, Japan) : Spatial variations in response spectra of earthquake ground motions. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(1), 101-9.

Response spectra of earthquake ground motions are important in the earthquake-resistant design and reliability analysis of structures. Examines the spatial variability of response spectra recorded at the same epicentral distance as a function of frequency and separation distance. Response spectrum ratios as spatial intra-event variations of response spectra and examine their statistical characteristics are defined. Probability distribution of the ratios and formulate equations for their probability density functions, mean values, standard deviations, and percentiles are analysed. These statistics are estimated using accelerometer arrays of the Chiba and SMART-1 databases, and their relationships with the station separation distance are analyzed. It has been found out that the means and standard deviations have almost linear relationship with the logarithms of the station separation distances ranging from several meters to several kilometers. Finally, based on these findings, the differences between response spectra at two different sites due to future earthquakes are discussed.

6 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

012092   Kalkan E;Graizer V (NO, California Geological Survey, Sacramento, CA 95814-3500, U.S.A) : Multi-component ground motion response spectra for coupled horizontal, vertical, angular accelerations, and tilt. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(1), 259-84.

Rotational and vertical components of ground motion are almost always ignored in design or in the assessment of structures despite the fact that vertical motion can be twice as much as the horizontal motion and may exceed 2g level, and rotational excitation may reach few degrees in the proximity of fault rupture. Coupling of different components of ground excitation may significantly amplify the seismic demand by introducing additional lateral forces and enhanced P-Δ effects. A governing equation of motion is postulated to compute the response of a SDOF oscillator under a multi-component excitation. The expanded equation includes secondary P-Δcomponents associated with the combined impacts of tilt and vertical excitations in addition to the inertial forcing terms due to the angular and translational accelerations. The elastic and inelastic spectral ordinates traditionally generated considering the uniaxial input motion are compared at the end with the multi-component response spectra of coupled horizontal, vertical and tilting motions. The proposed multi-component response spectrum reflects kinematic characteristics of the ground motion that are not identifiable by the conventional spectrum itself, at least for the near-fault region where high intensity vertical shaking and rotational excitation are likely to occur.

17 illus, 1 table, 72 ref

012091   Gupta I D (NO, Central Water and Power Research Station, Khadakwasla, Pune-411 024) : Probabilistic seismic hazard analysis method for mapping of spectral amplitudes and other design-specific quantities to estimate the earthquake effects on man-made structures. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(1), 127-67.

Along with the commonly used parameters like peak acceleration and response spectral amplitudes, knowledge of many other parameters like strong-motion duration, peak strains, likelihood for initiation of liquefaction, and permanent dislocations across faults is necessary to have a more comprehensive estimate of the earthquake effects on a variety of man-made structures. Provides a concise but complete description of the probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) method to map any of these quantities with a uniform probability of not being exceeded due to the total expected seismicity during a specified life period. Example results are presented to illustrate the application of the PSHA method in preparing the microzonation maps for several different hazard parameters. Also proposes simple practical solutions for some of the difficulties faced in implementing the existing PSHA method in real applications.

22 illus, 185 ref

012090   Douglas J (NO, ARN/RIS, BRGM, 3 Avenue C. Guillemin, BP 36009, 45060 Orleans Cedex 2, France) : Regional dependence of earthquake response spectra. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(1), 71-99.

It is common practice to use ground-motion models, often developed by regression on recorded accelerograms, to predict the expected earthquake response spectra at sites of interest. An important consideration when selecting these models is the possible dependence of ground motions on geographical region, i.e., are median ground motions in the (target) region of interest for a given magnitude and distance the same as those in the (host) region where a ground-motion model is from, and are the aleatoric variabilities of ground motions also similar? These questions can be particularly difficult to tackle in many regions of the world where little observed strong-motion data is available since there are few records to validate the choice of model. Reasons for regionally dependent ground motions are discussed and possible regional dependence of earthquake response spectra is examined using published groundmotion models, observed accelerograms and also by using ground motions predicted by published stochastic models. It is concluded that although some regions seem to show considerable differences in spectra it is currently more defensible to use well-constrained models, possibly based on data from other regions, rather than use predicted motions from local, often poorly-constrained, models.

10 illus, 5 tables, 118 ref

012089   Bhat M V (NO, , ) : Geo visualization for geospatial intelligence. Indian Surveyor 2007, 61(1), 61-3.

011160   Tikoo V;Verma R K;Fotedar A;Fotedar B K (Geology and Mining Dep, , Jammu and Kashmir) : Water quality assessment of bichlari nala flowing through Banihal and Ramban (Jammu & Kashmir). Indian For 2008, 134(4), 525-36.

Chemical analysis of water flowing in Bichlari Nala was carried out for Ca, Mg, K, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Ni, Zn and Pb. The analysis revealetl all cations are below the permissible limits except Fe, Mn and Ni, which are above permissible limits and hence toxic for human consumption. As far as agricultural use of this water is concerned, no element is in higher concentration and hence is non-hazardous for crops. Bicarbonates, sulphates and nitrates, total hardness values are all within safer levels. Turbidity values are higher because of higher rate of erosion in the catchment areas. pH of all the samples is within the permissible limits. SAR (Sodium Absorption Ratio), SSP (Sodium Soluble Percentage) and RSC (Residual Sodium Carbonate) values are too low to cause any type of soil hazard. Proper hygienic filtration and disinfection with chlorine/bromine is recommended to render the waters fit for human consumption. Besides disinfection, vetiver grass needs to be grown abundantly in and around Banihal town and steep hills existing on both the banks of Bichlari stream. This will check fast erosion by binding the soil together and also will screen many of the cations including Fe, Ni and Mn to enter into the solution of the waters. Last, but not the least, is to create mass awareness among the residents of all the villages existing in the areas between Banihal and Ramban towns for maintaining a good sanitation throughout. Deforestation in the catchment areas of Bichlari Nala should be stopped forthwith with strong hands to protect mass wastage, landslides and contamination in waters.

1 illus, 30 ref

011159   Srinivas P;Pradeep Kumar G N;Tajmaul Basha T (Civil Engineering Dep, P.V.R. and J.C. College of Engineering, Chowdavaram, Guntur-522 019) : Application of DBMS approach using microsoft visual foxpro sortware for analysing hydrological data. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 119-24.

Anantapur is one of the drought-affected districts in Andhra Pradesh. Due to prolonged dry spells and ill distributed rainfall the district under went a metamorphosis from drought to desert prone area. Keeping this in view, the present study was carried out to identify the droughts in Anantapur district by analyzing the daily rainfall and evaporation data for a period of 21 years from 1979 to 2000 by the application of DBMS approach by developing programs using Microsoft Visual FoxPro Software. The agricultural productivity depends upon chiefly the occurrence and distribution of rainfall in a particular region. But due to non-uniform distribution of rainfall and prolonged dry spells during monsoon season and crop period, the dry land agriculture in and and semi arid regions is becoming difficult. The identification of dry spells and wet spells to find out drought occurring conditions are complex because of the fact that, it requires analyzing the vast hydrological data in a systematic order. From the data analysis, dry days, dry spells, wet days, wet spells, monthly, seasonal and annual rainfall, driest and wettest months were obtained. The interpretation of the results yields that it is possible to identify the likely hood of occurrence of dry spells and wet spells. The onset of monsoons was late and consequently the late sowing of crops which results in crop failure. The identification of dry spells is therefore helpful in agricultural planning, reservoir operations, releasing of water to canals for irrigation and for planning Cloud seeding operations.

4 illus, 5 ref

011158   Mini I;Jayaraman P R;Ganga Devi T (Botany Dep, University College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034) : Nutrient dynamics in the sedimentary environmental of a lotic ecosystem-Vamanapuram river, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, south India. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 125-34.

Surficial sediment sampled at monthly intervals from ten Stations along the Vamanapuram river for a period of one year from February 1999 to January 2000 were analysed for texture, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous and their ratios. The textural characteristics reveated that the sediments were of sandy nature. A general distribution pattern of C>N>P was noticed at all stations. The concentrations of organic carbon and phosphorous were comparatively low at the downstream stations. The amount of total nitrogen was found higher at most of the stations during monsoon. The C:P ratio remained higher than the C:N and N:P ratios at majority of stations. Comparatively higher C:N ratio was observed at most of the stations suggestive of the combined effect of autochthonous and allochthonous matter in the sediment. The high C:P ratio is indicative of the less polluted nature of the river. The N:P ratio was low attributing to the abiogenic origin of phosphorous. ANOVA substantiated the spatial and temporal variations found in the environment.

4 illus, 26 ref

011157   Chandrakanti Devi L;Koijam K K;Singh M B (Biology Laboratory Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Imphal-795 003) : Fluoride contents of the ground water of Bishenpur district, Manipur. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 255-8.

Consumption of fluoride higher than the permissible limit affects the human body. It may lead to fluorosis. Fluoride is present in lesser or higher amount in almost all ground waters. The inhabitants of some areas of the Bishenpur district of Manipur use water from the tube wells for their drinking purposes. The fluoride concentration in areas under study are well below the permissible limit. It is now able to have a clear idea of fluoride status in Bishenpur district of Manipur. Therefore, the fear of fluorosis due to consumption of water from these tube wells may not be there.

1 illus, 1 table, 2 ref

010140   Shah M C;Shilpkar P G;Acharya P B;Gor U K; Kansara S R (NO, , 14/3, Mahannagar Society, Behind Bethak, Naroda, Ahmedabad-382 330, Email: mayurchemistry@yahoo.co.in) : Statistical analysis of ground water quality characteristics of Kalol taluka, Gujarat for drinking and irrigation purposes. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 393-7.

Study of water quality characteristics of water samples of 39 villages of Kalol taluka in Gandhinagar district of Gujarat state, India have been carried out during May-2006.The experimental values of various water quality characteristics of water samples were compared with standard value prescribed by World Health Organization(WHO) for drinking purpose. Quality of water also checked for irrigation purpose according to classification made by United State Salinity Laboratory. The statistical analysis [mean, standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variance (%CV), correlation of coefficient (r) and regression study] of water quality characteristics have also been carried out. Results show that water samples of Aluva and Jethlaj villages have exceed values of fluoride content with compare to WHO standards. 25.64% water samples of Kalol taluka fall in poor category for irrigation purpose. Out of 105 pairs 67 pairs of water quality characteristics bear positive correlation. The linear relation also established for each pair of water quality characteristics of studied water samples.

1 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

010139   Ravisankar N;Poongothai S (Civil Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: ravisankar_natarajamani@yahoo.com) : Groundwater quality in Tsunami affected areas of Sirkazhi taluk, Nagapattinam district, Tamilnadu, India. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 403-8.

Tsunami is Japanese word which represents 'Harbour wave'. Tsunami consists of a series of very long waves generated by any rapid, large-scale disturbance of the sea. The 26, December 2004 - Tsunami had a major impact on groundwater quality along the south-east coast of India especially in the areas of Nagapatinam district in Tamilnadu. The impact of the Tsunami depended on the interaction of the Tsunami with the coastline, which in turn depended on many parameters like bathymetry, Tsunami surge height, ground slope, configuration of the coastline, structures at the coast etc,. Water quality in Tsunami affected areas of Sirkazhi taluk, Nagapattinam district particularly the areas of Pazaiyar, Madavaimedu, Thirumullaivasal, Thoduvai, Koozaiyar, Puthupattinam, Kizhamoovarkarai, Poombhukar and Vanagiri is posing problems to general health, agricultural and environmental degradation. The present study aims to determine the source, degree, extent and nature of the groundwater pollution in Sirkazhi coastal region due to Tsunami. Groundwater samples from 11 wells have been collected from the study area for hydro-chemical analysis. Various graphs have been prepared to identify the polluted areas. It is observed that the major pollution is due to salinity, Na, and Cl. The water quality problems in the coastal areas of Sirkazhi region are mainly associated with historic influence of Tsunami into the groundwater. The present study aims to understand the impact of Tsunami incursion on the adjacent groundwater quality. The results show significant variations in water quality parameters in the study area.

3 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

010138   Prasanna M V;Chidambaram S;Vasu K;Shahul Hameed A;Unikrishna Warrier C;Srinivasamoorthy K;Pethaperumal S;John Peter A;Anandhan P (Earth Sciences Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: geoprasanna@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of groundwater quality using geographical information system in the Gadilam river basin, Tamilnadu, India. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 293-8.

To assess the portability of groundwater, major water quality parameters such as Total dissolved solids (IDS), Chloride (Cl), Sodium (Na⁺) and Chloride vs. Bicarbonate (Cl/HCO₃) ratio have been estimated for all the sampling locations. The estimated data of forty one locations for each parameter have been converted into contour maps by using Geographical Information System (GIS) software (Surfer, version 6). The chemical parameters have been integrated through GIS and two priority classes good and poor have been derived. In the study area only a few fresh water pockets have been identified.

7 illus, 5 ref

010137   Akpanika O I;Udoh F D (Chemical & Petroleum Engineering Dep, Uyo Univ, Uyo, Nigeria) : Challenges of marginal fields development in Nigeria. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 235-40.

Nigeria is richly endowed with a vast amount of mineral resources. These mineral resources are exhaustible and include hydrocarbons which are currently the main stay of Nigeria's economy. The nation's current reserve base is projected to be depleted within the next 34 years at the present production level of about 2.4 million barrels of oil per day. With this in mind, the government's current policy is to have a proven reserve base of 40 billion barrels by the year 2010, and increase daily production capacity to 4 million barrels of oil per day. These policy objectives have predicated upon the necessity for the Nigerian government to intensify the search for new discoveries and increase exploration and production activities in already discovered or abandoned fields known as marginal fields. One of the methods which could be utilized to increase Nigeria's daily petroleum output and reserve base is the development of marginal fields. The development of marginal fields may result in the introduction of hundreds of millions of barrels of oil to existing reserves. This paper takes a critical look at the challenges of developing these marginal fields in Nigeria. Recommendation is proffered for effective and successful implementation of the program.

2 tables, 12 ref

008999   Singh P;Singh K (Soil and Water Engineering Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004) : Ground water balance components relationship. Ann Biol 2008, 24(2), 143-8.

Study was conducted at CCS Haryana Agricultural University Farm for the period 1985 to 1990. The ground water table fluctuation was studied by installing 75 observation wells at a grid of 600 x 600 m. The monthly values of the ground water table depth were recorded. The values of sub-surface inflow and outflow were calculated from water table contour map using flow net technique. The evapotranspiration from cropped area was estimated from reference evapotranspiration and crop coefficient. The evapotranspiration from fellow land was estimated using water balance equation. The empirical relationships were developed for final water table as a function of different water balance parameters and the values of the coefficients were calculated. The correlation coefficient varied from 0.97 to 0.99 and the ratio of variance was statistically significant at 1%. The contribution of net sub-surface flow towards the rise in ground water table was non significant. The higher values of the canal water supply and rainfall resulted in shallower ground water table. Similarly, higher values of evapotranspiration and net sub-surface flow resulted in deeper water table. The strategies to control the rising water table should include (i) installation of surface drainage for safe disposal of excess rain water, (ii) reduction in canal water supply or use of balancing reservoirs to store excess canal water, (iii) increase area under cultivation and grow crops having higher evapotranspiration and (iv) installation of sub-surface drainage to increase net sub-surface flow.

3 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

008998   Patil D U;Mahale D;Nandgude S B;Kannan K (Water Technology Centre for Eastern Region, , Bhubaneswar-751 023) : Rainfall analysis for sustainable Kharland management at Konkan region. Int J Trop Agric 2008, 26(1-2), 65-8.

Rainfall data for the years (1975-2005) pertaining to Panvel, Malwmstm were analysed for annual, seasonal, monthly, weekly and pentad period. Critical dry spell analysis were also done considering the soil-crop-climate complex of Kilarland (saline soil area). The mean annual rainfall was worked out as 2854.53 mm. . Kharif, Rabi summer season receive 2697 mm, 133.20mm and 15.4 mm raifall, respectively It was observed that the critical period of paddy coincides with the period of high probability of critical dry spells (50^th to 55^th pentad corresponding to 3^th September to 2^nd October). As per onset of effective monsoon (OEM) the sowing of paddy for tansplanting and awntani (local method of broadcasting sprouted seeds) could be started in 33^rd pentad (10-14 June). For rohu 37^th-38^th pentad would be favorable. For transplanting 37^th pentad (30^th June-4^th, July) could he favorable as there was high probability (70%) of getti11g more than 500 mm accumulated rainfall which facilitates the flushing of salts from the top soil.

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

008997   Panda B B;Ngachan S V;Sharma P T;Islam M (NO, , ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Imphal-795 004) : Assessment of the validity of medium range weather forecasting at the sub-tropical plain zones of Manipur. Int J Trop Agric 2008, 26(1-2), 143-7.

Statistical analysis of weather data was made during 2003-04 to 2005-06 at Agromcteorological Advisory Services (AAS) Unit of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Lamphelpat, Imphal to evaluate and verify the accuracy and validity of the medium range weather forecasting at the sub-tropical plain zones of Manipur. Results indicated that 61.75, 66.04, 75.24, 75.32, 77.10 and 40.21 % of the forecasts were usable for rainfall, cloud cover, maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed and direction, respectively. The values of skill scores for rainfall i.e: Ratio score, Critical success index (CSl), Heidke Skill Score (HSS) and Hanssen and Kuipers' score (HKS) were 0.49, 0.41, 0.36, and 0.31, respectively. The root mean square error (RMSE) value for rainfall, cloud cover, maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed and direction was 7.2 mm, 2.62 okta, 2.03 and 1.88 °C, 1.84 km/hr and 74.68 degree, respectively. A positive correlation between the observed and forecasted weather data was noticed for all the parameters but the value was less than 0.5 except minimum temperature. A significant variation among the seasons was also noticed for the above parameters for different skill scores, RMSE, Correlation and error structure.

6 tables, 6 ref

008996   Mokashi D D;Deshpande A N;Khadtare S V;Jadhav J D (Zonal Agricultural Research Station, M.P.K.V., Solapur, Maharashtra) : Rain : its probability based forecast at Solapur, India. Int J agric Sci 2008, 4(1), 390-3.

Rainfall data for last 30 years (1974-2003) was collected at Dry Farming Research Station, Solapur is used for this study. Out of the total annual rainfall of 748.2 mm in 45 rainy days. 73.5 percent (550.5 mm) is received from South-West (June-September) monsoon period with 32 rainy days, 17.4 percent (130.9 mm) of rainfall with 7 rainy days from North-East (Oct. - Dec) monsoon period. Weekly rainfall studies shows that MW 24, 25 and 30 received 24.7,19.1 and 36.9 mm rainfall with less variation 97.3,97.3 and 100.1% in respect of total amount of rain indicating better chances of rainfall in these weeks for kharifseason. However, looking to the rabi season MW 38,39 and 40 received maximum amount of rainfall 38.4,63.7 and 37.1 mm with less variation 114.9,109 and 101.3 %. The initial wet probabilities data indicate that > 20 mm rainfall is received in MW 24 (11-17 June) with 57 percent assurance indicate start of rainy season for kharif crops. The sowing of kharif crops viz., Pearlmillet, Sunflower, Pigeon pea are recommended during this period. The mid season correction crop like sunflower is as recommended as contingent crop under late onset of monsoon i.e. in the month of late July and early August. However, MW 39 (24-30 Sept) with 75 percent assurance indicates maximum assurance of rainfall in rabi season. The rabi crops like winter sorghum, safflower and gram are recommended during this period on residual soil moisture. This study is helpful to the farmer in planning of field crops according to the rainfall-pattern in dryland areas.

4 tables, 7 ref

008995   Jain S;Singh D;Grewal M S;Kuhad M S;Malik H R (State Remote Sensing Application Center, , Jodhpur-342 003) : Physiography-Soil relationship of district Gurgaon using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(3), 1106-11.

Study was undertaken to study and classify the soils of Gurgaon district and to establish a physiographic-soil relationship in the area. Image interpretation of IRS ID USS ill digital satellite data on 1:50,000 scale with the help of survey of India topomaps was conducted. The major geomorphic units identified and mapped were old alluvial plain, sahibi plain, intermontane basinal complex, pediments and hills. Sub-geomorphic units within these broader physiographic units were also identified and mapped. In each geomorphic unit one representative soil profile was studied for its morphological and physico-chemical characteristics. Fourteen soil series were identified in the study area and they were classified under two soil orders : Entisols and Inceptisols. The soils were classified according to USDA soil taxonomy' and the geomorphic-soil map was 'prepared by establishing physiographic-soil relationship. The investigation proved the utility of role of satellite remote sensing in classifying the soils of the area.

2 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

008281   Shivanna K;Tirumalesh K;Noble J;Joseph T B; Gursharan Singh;Joshi A P;Khati V S (Isotope Application Div, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai-400 085, Email: kshiva@barc.gov.in) : Isotope techniques to identify recharge areas of springs for rainwater harvesting in the mountainous region of gaucher area, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1003-11.

Environmental isotope techniques have been employed to identify the recharge areas of springs in India, in order to construct artificial recharge structures for rainwater harvesting and groundwater augmentation for their rejuvenation. A model project was taken up in the mountainous region of Gaucher area, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand for this purpose. The springs in this region are seasonal and are derived from seepage waters flowing through the shallow weathered and fractured zone. The chemistry of high-altitude springs is similar to that of precipitation, whereas water-rock interactions contributes to increased mineralization in low-altitude springs. The stable isotopic variation in precipitation suggests that the altitude effect for Gaucher area is -0.55%, for δ¹⁸O and -3.8%, for δ²H per 100 m rise in altitude. Based on local geology, geo-morphology, hydrochemistry and isotope information, the possible recharge areas inferred for valleys 1, 2 and 3 are located at altitudes of 1250, 1330 and 1020 m amsl respectively. Water conservation and recharge structures such as subsurface dykes, check bunds and contour trenches were constructed at the identified recharge areas in the respective valleys for controlling the subsurface flow, rainwater harvesting and groundwater augmentation respectively. As a result, during and after the following monsoon, the discharge rates of the springs not only increased significantly, but also did not dry up even during the dry period. The study shows that the isotope techniques can be effectively used in identifying recharge areas of springs in the Himalayan region. It also demonstrates the advantage of isotope techniques over conventional methods.

6 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

008280   Sharma A K;Patil A V;Haridas R N;Bhonsle R V (Space Science Lab, Physics Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: sharma_ashokkumar@yahoo.com) : ULF emissions associated with seismic activity recorded at Kolhapur station. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1034-7.

Presents some observations and preliminary results associated with seismogenic ultra low frequency (ULF) emissions. Analysed ULF data for two moderate earthquakes that occurred on 17 April and 21 May 2006, with magnitudes greater than 4. For recording ULF data using ground-based method, three induction-coil magnetometers have been installed at Shivaji University, Kolhapur, India (16.40°N, 74.15°E). Data have shown maximum enhancement in intensities of magnetic field for 0.1 Hz, 3-5 days before the earthquakes. Polarization parameter and geomagnetic pulsation in terms of Kp index have been used to conclude that the observed enhancement in magnetic field (before the earthquake) is seismogenic. 

^ssc7 illus, 12 ref

008279   Samuel O B;Solu A M;Odiete W O (Marine Sciences Dep, Faculty of Science, Lagos Univ, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, Email: olusamng@yahoo.com) : Toxicity of diesel and petrol on Sesarma huzardi: an aftermath of oil spillage on a tropical mangrove ecosystem. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(1), 35-42.

Effects of diesel spillage on a mangrove ecosystem at Atlas Cove, Lagos, Nigeria and the relative acute toxicity of diesel and petrol on mangrove hairy crab, Sesarma huzardi was reported and investigated respectively. The oil spill effects on mangrove ecosystem were evaluated through collection and identification of the dead macro invertebrate and destroyed vegetation along with the physico-chemical characterization of water samples taken from 4 different stations. The acute toxicity was carried out using 96h static non-renewal bioassay method. The spilled diesel killed a total of 345 individual animals (9 species). S. huzardi accounted for highest number (39.4%) of individuals killed while Callinectes amnicola (0.9%) accounted for the least. The spilled diesel killed 155 stands of Achrosticum aureum and 232 stands of Rhizophora racemosa. The observed physico-chemical parameters (TSS, 548.0-842.0 mg/L; TDS, 5181.0-7078.0 mg/L; DO, 3.8-6.0mg/L; BOD, 25.0-76.0 mg/L and THC, 2.0-3050.0 mg/L) reflected perturbational stress due to the spilled diesel. Based on derived 96hLC_{50<> and toxicity factor, petrol (96 hLC50, 3.70 ml/L) was found to be 9 times more toxic than diesel (96 hLC50, 35.40 ml/L) on S. huzardi. ANOVA showed significant difference (P<0.05) in the quantal response (mortality) of S. huzardi to different concentrations of diesel and petrol at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h of exposure. Considering the importance of mangrove ecosystem to the nation's economy, it is important that clean-up/ rehabilitation measures are conducted using techniques which minimize ecological and public amenity damage. This should be followed with a recovery assessment of the impacted ecosystem.}

1 illus, 6 tables, 22 ref

008278   Remya L;Geetha R;Chandramohanakumar N;Mathews L (Chemistry Dep, S.H. College, Thevara, Kochi, Email: mathewslizen@yahoo.com) : Impact on the quality of water after tsunami on the dug wells in Chellanam-a tsunami affected area in Southern India. Res J Chem Envir 2007, 11(3), 72-6.

The deadly Indian Ocean tsunami that swept across coastlines on 26 December 2004 took the lives of more than 2,00,000 people. The whole southern coast of India, including Kerala, was hit by the devastating tsunami. Study involves the water quality analysis of five dug wells from Chellanam, a Tsunami affected area in Kochi, Kerala. As the ocean water comes ashore, drinking water wells can become submerged and potentially contaminated with microorganisms and chemicals that adversely affect human health. The water quality parameters like temperature, pH, TDS, DO, BOD, COD, hardness, chloride, fluoride, phosphate, nitrate, sodium, potassium and cadmium were studied by various analytical techniques. It was found that most of the water quality parameters are not in the acceptable limits in accordance with WHO drinking water quality standards. Before Tsunami these waters were used for domestic and drinking purposes but after Tsunami most of the well water became contaminated by making the water salty.

1 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

008277   Ramesh Kumar A;Riyazuddin P (Chemical Lab, Central Groundwater Board, South Eastern Coastal Region, E1, Rajaji Bhavan, Besant Nager, Chennai-600 090, Email: riyazdr@yahoo.co.uk) : Application of chemometric techniques in the assessment of groundwater pollution in a suburban area of Chennai city, India. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1012-22.

Chemometric techniques such as factor analysis (FA), cluster analysis (CA) and discriminant analysis (DA) were applied to the groundwater quality data in a tannery-polluted area of Chennai city, India. Groundwater samples were collected from 65 dug wells during pre-and post-monsoon seasons and analysed for 25 parameters. FA applied to the datasets pertaining to the pre- and post-monsoon seasons resulted in eight and nine factors explaining 78.7 and 79.7% of the total variance of the respective datasets. Though FA identified two polluting processes (major ion pollution and tannery pollution factors) explained by factors 1 and 2, it could not explain the remaining factors. Three major clusters, i.e. unpolluted, moderately polluted and severely polluted groups, were obtained through CA on the basis of similarities between them. But during the post-monsoon season, the clustering of unpolluted and moderately polluted groups was not clear. Spatial DA by standard mode classified the cases into three groups with 95.4 and 87.7% correct assignations for the two seasons. DA by stepwise mode suggested that electrical conductivity was the discriminating variable with 69.2% correct assignation of cases. FA identified temporal changes in water quality, due to ground-water recharge after monsoon. Changes in water quality were mainly attributed to reduction of pollution load of tannery pollution factor. However, little changes in the major ion pollution factor were observed. DA by stepwise mode predicted that Mg, SiO₂, pH and Cd were the most important parameters to discriminate the two seasons.

5 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

008276   Ramanujam N;Antony R (Post Graduate Dep of Geology, V.O. Chidambaram College, Tuticorin 628 008, Email: nr_voc_geology@yahoo.co.in) : Causes of intraplate seismicities in Indian subcontinent. Res J Chem Envir 2007, 11(3), 29-35.

The overriding and stacking of the Eurasian and Indian continents created highest mountain peaks of the Himalaya, the longest Frontal Thrust faults and the highest Tibetan Plateau. The maximum convergence in the Himalaya is accommodated as geological shortening for the few million years. Because of the weight and immobility of the Himalaya and Tibet; the northward movement of the Indian plate has been mired, as a result of that, the long identified single Indo - Australian Plate has broken apart in the equatorial region. This deformation was first attributed to the intraplate and now recognized as diffusion zone in response to the Himalayan upliftment. Diffusion of plate boundaries is also identified is Bhuj region. The flexure of the Indian plate has formed as hidden chain of mountains parallel to the Himalaya and rises in the Central Indian Plateau. The frequency of the intraplate seismicities is more in the Indian plate when compared to the other tectonic plates. The horizontal forces generated due to convergences of plate boundaries in the north and in the east, and a part of energy at the time of great earthquake like December 2004 dissipated back.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

008275   Pradeepkumar T B;Fahmi S;Sharma S K (Atomic Monerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, , AMD Complex, Sector 5 Extn, Pratap Nagar, Jaipur-302 033, Email: pradeepkumar.amd@gov.in) : Uranium in ancient slag from Rajasthan. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1031-4.

Anomalous radioactivity was recorded in two ancient slag dumps spread on the surface near Bansda (24°35'N lat., 70°09'E long.) and Dhavadiya (24°30'N lat., 70°05'E long.) villages, Udaipur District, Rajasthan. The slag, with a range of high to low radioactivity levels, is the remnant of ancient smelting in the area, probably for copper. Six samples showing low radioactivity in Bansda contain an average of 0.030% U₃O₈, while five moderately radioactive samples analysed contain 0.225% U₃O₈. and four highly radioactive samples analysed contain 1.15% U₃O₈- The 15 samples contain on an average 0.627% copper, 719 ppm zinc, 329 ppm cobalt and 133 ppm vanadium. Fifteen samples from Dhavadiya slag assayed on an average contain 0.040% U₃O₈, 0.297% Cu, 292 ppm Zn and 250 ppm Co. The extent of crystallization seen in the slag is intriguing because an over-cooled melt generally forms glass. The high rate of crystal formation may be attributed to high amounts of volatiles, particularly CO₂ and SO₄, released during the breakdown of limestone (added as flux during smelting) and sulphide minerals in the ore. The high order of radioactivity recorded in the slags of Bansda and Dhavadiya points to the presence of ore-grade uranium concentration associated with sulphide mineralization in the vicinity of the basement Banded Gneissic Complex, intrusive granites and the cover sequence of the Bhinder basin.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

008274   Mondal N C;Rao V A;Singh V S;Sarwade D V (NO, National Geophysical Research Institute, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: ncmngri@yahoo.co.in) : Delineation of concealed lineaments using electrical resistivity imaging in granitic terrain. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1023-30.

Shows that colour infill resistivity contours for different depths at Ghattupal village, Wailapalli watershed, Andhra Pradesh in granitic terrain, drawn from electrical resistivity imaging, can indicate the location of concealed lineaments. A comparison of the surface lineament map with the colour infill resistivity contour maps for different depths represents that many of the underground lineaments recognized through the resistivity studies have no surface expression as lineaments. This underground lineament allows large-scale migration of groundwater in hard-rock areas and can be used as probable sites for drilling new boreholes for water supply. The properties of the aquifer occurring on the concealed lineament were confirmed by electrical conductivity logging. The colour infill resistivity contours map also provides pictures of the subsurface, which show variation in bedrock topography, precise location of concealed fractures, and nature and thickness of the overburden.

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008273   Mitra A;Das I M L;Dash M K;Bhandari S M;Vyas N K (K. Banerjee Centre of Atmospheric and Ocean Studies, Physics Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002, Email: profimldas@yahoo.com) : Impact of ice-albedo feedback on hemispheric scale sea-ice melting rates in the antarctic using multi-frequency scanning microwave radiometer data. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1044-8.

The sea-ice cover in the polar regions is one of the most expansive and seasonal geophysical parameters on the earth's surface. The presence or absence of sea-ice affects the atmosphere and the ocean, and therefore the climate in many ways. Used the Multi-frequency Scanning Microwave Radiometer (MSMR) brightness temperature data over the Antarctic/Southern Ocean region to calculate the weekly sea-ice extents, during the melting phase from August 1999 to March 2000 to quantitatively estimate the melting rates of sea-ice on a hemispheric scale. Compared to the melting rates based on the seasonal cycle of the solar irradiance, the MSMR-estimated melting rate remains less until the beginning of October and then rapidly increases to its peak value by the end of December. The observed melting rate behaviour indicates that apart from the seasonal cycle of solar irradiance, it is controlled by other mechanisms like the ice-albedo feedback. The present study estimates the feedback factor, response time and acceleration in the melting rate, which are important towards a better quantitative understanding of the future of Antarctic sea-ice variability, and the climate trends in the context of global warming.

^ssc3 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

008272   Jagannadha Rao K;Subramanyam A V;Abhinav Kumar;Sunil T C;Chaturvedi A K (Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, , Begumpet, Hyderabad-500 016, Email: jagannadhar@yahoo.com) : Discovery of heavy mineral-rich sand dunes along the Orissa-Bengal coast of India using remote sensing techniques. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 983-5.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

008271   Goswami P;Ramesh K V (NO, CSIR Centre for Mathematical Modelling and Computer Simulation, Wind Tunnel Road, Bangalore-560 037, Email: goswami@cmmacs.ernet.in) : Extreme rainfall events: vulnerability analysis for disaster management and observation system design. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1037-44.

Extreme rainfall events today pose a serious threat to many populated and urbanized areas worldwide. An accurate estimate of frequency and distribution of these events can significantly aid in policy planning and observation system design. Reports here, a high-resolution (10 km) analysis of heavy rainfall episodes (defined as 24-h rainfall exceeding 250 mm) over the Indian region. The dataset, recently developed by NOAA, USA, provides daily composite rainfalls for the period 2001-06 at locations approximately 10 km apart. We first assess the reliability of the dataset by comparing it with daily gridded (1° x 1°) rainfall data from IMD and three-hourly gridded (0.25° X 0.25°) data from TRMM for the overlap years (2001-04). A category-wise analysis of the high-resolution data reveals a number of hotspots of vulnerability; in particular, the semiarid region in northwest India emerges as a high-vulnerability area in terms of extreme rainfall events. The high-resolution analysis also clearly reveals the corridor of the monsoon trough, lined by a flower-pot distribution of extreme rainfall events along the flanks. This can be a valuable input for precision design of field experiments on the continental trough or on localized extreme events like thunderstorms. Other important implications for areas like vulnerability assessment, planning and mesoscale forecasting are discussed.

10 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

008270   Dan Singh;Ganju A (Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment, , Him Parisar, Sector 37A, Chandiarh-160 036, Email: dan_@rediffmail.com) : Expert system for prediction of avalanches. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1076-81.

Many statistical as well as classical methods have been developed as guidance tools for forecasting avalanches. Statistical methods are based on strict mathematical procedures (i.e. mathematical expression used to build the system) and classical methods are mamly based on reasoning and lack in analytical explanation. To over-come the problems posed by both the methods, a data-based expert system has been developed for the Chowkibal-Tangdhar road axis in Pir Panjal range of NW Himalaya. The expert system has been developed using Ration-based rules which make it highly flexible and compact. In addition, an inductive incremental leaming feature has been included in the model. developed expert system predicts a day as avalanche day, with degree of avalanche danger as practised for operational avalanche forecasting in NW Himalaya, or as a non-avalanche day. It has been tested independently with two types of avalanche occurrence namely, actual avalanche occurrence reports available and these reports combined with the expert forecaster s assessment of the situation. This is mainly to overcome the loss of avalanche occurrence information due to bad weather conditions during winter. Independent testing of the expert system with actual avalanche oc-currence reports available combined with the expert forecaster's assessment of the situation may help largely to ensure whether the system is in agreement or disagreement with the assessment of the expert ava-lanche forecasters. The developed expert system was tested independently for the past five winters. The in-dependent test results show that the expert system predicts more than 80% days correctly for both types of avalanche occurrence information. The results are encouraging and the expert system is in good agreement with the assessment of expert avalanche fore casters.

^ssc1 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

008269   Banhatti D G (Solid State Theory Group, Munster Univ, Germany, Email: dilip.g.banhatti@gmail.com) : Disk galaxy rotation curves and dark matter distribution. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 986-95.

Describes the methods used to determine, somewhat coarsely, the rotation curves of the Milky Way Galaxy and other spiral galaxies, especially in their outer parts, and the results of applying these methods. Recent observations and models of the very inner central parts of galaxian rotation curves are only briefly described. I then present the essential Newtonian theory of (disk) galaxy rotation curves. The next two sections present two numerical simulation schemes and brief results. Application of modified Newtonian dynamics to the outer parts of disk galaxies is then described. Finally, attempts to apply Einsteinian general relativity to the dynamics are summarized. The article ends with a summary and prospects for further work in this area.

12 illus, 60 ref

007184   Varma N K;Sinha V K (CIMFR, , Barwa Road, Dhanbad) : Thermal conductivity of coal-measure rocks of Raniganj coalfield. J Mines Metals Fuels 2008, 56(1-2), 16-21.

All the mathematical models for mine climate prediction are based on the numerical values of thermal properties of associated rock formations. Among them thermal conductivity is an important parameter. The probe method used for thermal conductivity determination in laboratory is discussed. Using this method, thermal conductivity of 9 coal samples collected from different underground coal mines, 7 samples of schist and 69 samples of variety of sandstones collected from different boreholes is determined. Also, porosity and surface area of coal samples is determined using automatic apparatus PASCAL 240. From these measurements effect of porosity and surface area on thermal conductivity is also discussed.

3 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

007183   Tejeda-Jacome J;Chavez-Garcia F J (NO, Instituto de Ingenieria Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, C.P. 04510 Mexico, D.F., Mexico) : Empirical ground-motion estimation equations in Colima from weak motion records. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(3-4), 409-19.

Develops ground-motion estimation equations using data from small earthquakes recorded in the northern region of the subduction zone in the Pacific coast of Mexico. The equations predict peak ground acceleration and (5%-damping) pseudo-acceleration response spectra for ten period values. Magnitude dependence is modulated by the effect of focal depth. The dataset consists of 162 three-component acceleration records from 26 earthquakes (with 3.3 < M < 5.2 and 5 < depth < 76 km). These data were recorded at local and regional distances (i.e., R < 175 km) with a temporal array of 12 autonomous digital accelerographs that operated during eight months (from January to August, 2006). Data recorded during the same period by five permanent strong motion stations installed recently is used. A two-step stratified regression model is used to decouple the evaluation of the distance dependence from magnitude and focal depth dependences. Results are compared with previous empirical attenuation models for subduction zones in Mexico and elsewhere. Results predict larger intensity values for distances larger than 100 km in the magnitude range where they are most reliable.

7 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

007182   Subrahmanyam D S;Channabasappa S (NO, National Institute of Rock Mechanics, KGF and S. Channabasappa, Reade, Bangalore) : Brief study on the migmatitic rocks in India for use as dimensional stones. J Mines Metals Fuels 2008, 56(1-2), 13-15,21.

In recent days, about 60% of hard clystalline rocks are being used as dimensional stones in India, due to their hardness and attractive colours after cutting and polishing. In commercial parlance, any rock that is cut and shaped into a specific size is called dimensional stone, irrespective of their geological origin and composition. Migmatites are one of the important rocks and more popular nowadays because of their attractive wavy pattern and aesthetic beauty after polishing. Commercially; Paradiso, SrikakuIam Blue, Himalayan Blue, Juprana, Tiger skin etc fall in to this category. These migmatites are mainly available in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and some parts of Kerala. Though these are available with good attractive colours like pink, blue and grey along with intricate fold design, their uniformity and consistency is rather rare compare to other granite deposits of India. Most of the entrepreneurs do not know the specific characteristics of migmatites regarding their origin and availability; hence the failure rates while extracting are alarmingly high. Hence it is required to prepare the databank about this type of rocks covering their geological and mining aspects. Deals with the variety of migmatitic rocks in India and their geological and mining characteristics and ultimately their usage as dimensional stones with special reference to their marketability.

3 illus, 5 ref

007181   Srivastava R C (Water Technology Centre for Eastern Region, , Bhubneswar-751 023) : Multiple use of water- a review and some suggestions for implementation. Indian J Soil Conserv 2007, 35(3), 198-203.

Multiple use of water has now become indispensable to make the cost of water affordable in view of rising cost of water resource creation. Numerous workers have been working on developing the optimal and sustainable multiple use systems tor various water domains under different agro-ecological situations. Although it is being done at research farm and small farmers' level, developing technologies and strategies that accommodate different user groups remains a major challenge for improving the overall productivity as well as the equity of water use. Avaliable technologies, constraints in upscaling these technologies and their implementation to harness the huge socio-economic potential of multiple use system.

4 illus, 14 ref

007180   Sarkar R;Paul D K;Stempniewski L (Earthquake Engineering Dep, IIT Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667) : Influence of reservoir and foundation on the nonlinear dynamic response of concrete gravity dams. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(2), 377-89.

The dynamic analysis of a concrete gravity dam is a reasonably complex problem. The response of a dam subjected to dynamic loading is a combined effect of the interaction among dam, reservoir and foundation systems. The profile of the Koyna dam has been adopted for the study of this investigation. Nonlinear concrete properties have been taken into account through concrete damaged plasticity model to simulate the damage induced in the dam body under a real-time earthquake motion. The study indicates that tensile damage of the dam structure occurred during the earthquake motion. Parametric studies, while varying the height of the reservoir and the foundation modulus values, have been conducted. to show the influence of reservoir and foundation material on the dynamic response of concrete gravity dams.

8 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

007179   Liang J;Ba Z;Lee V W (Civil Engineering Dep, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300 072, China) : Diffraction of plane SV waves by an underground circular cavity in a saturated poroelastic half-space. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(2), 341-75.

Derives a wave-function series expansion solution for the diffraction of incident plane SV waves by an underground circular cavity in a saturated poroelastic half-space. The effects of the incident frequencies, incident angles, boundary drainage, porosity, and Poisson's ratio on the diffraction of incident plane SV waves are discussed. It is shown that, depending upon the incident angles, the surface displacement amplitudes near the cavity in dry and saturated poroelastic half-spaces are very different, and large phase shifts can be observed. The Poisson's ratio is also an important factor, and has a larger effect for the undrained saturated than for the drained saturated half-space. Large pore pressures are found near and around the cavity, depending strongly upon the incident angles. As the porosity increases the pore pressure increases significantly but its variations become smoother and more complicated as the frequency increases. For large porosity, the effect of the drainage condition is significant, and for the same porosity the surface displacement amplitudes near the cavity in the undrained are larger than those in the drained saturated half-space.

26 illus, 50 ref

007178   Khare R K;Dhakal R P;Mander J B;Hamid N B A; Maniyar M M (Civil Engineering Dep, S.G.S. Institute of Technology & Science, Indore-452 003) : Mitigation of seismic financial risk of reinforced concrete walls by using damage avoidance design. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(3-4), 391-408.

Seismic financial risk analyses of rocking precast prestressed reinforced concrete hollow-core walls designed using the Damage A voidance Design (DAD) philosophy and of code-compliant ductile monolithic walls are performed based on the results of experimental investigation on the seismic behaviour of wall specimens representing the two different systems. Incremental dynamic analyses (IDA) are performed on nonlinear computational models of the two prototype walls, and experimental results are used to calibrate different damage states. Fragility curves are then developed for the two wall systems and the expected annual loss (EAL) is calculated based on a probabilistic financial risk assessment framework. The structural performance and financial implications of the two wall systems are compared. Shows that it is the structurally acceptable minor-to-moderate damage that is responsible for a major share of the financial risk. Damage avoidance philosophy avoids this minor-moderate damage and hence reduces the financial risk greatly.

2 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

007177   Hait N;Paul P K (Mining Engineering Dep, Bengal Engineering and Science University, Shibpur, Howrah-711 103) : Geological modelling of an ore body by GIS vis-a-vis minex. J Mines Metals Fuels 2008, 56(1-2), 22-7.

4 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref