007176   Elgamal A (Structural Engineering Dep, University of California, San Diego La Jolla, CA 92093, U.S.A) : Nonlinear modeling of large-scale ground-foundation-structure seismic response. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(2), 325-39.

Numerical modeling of ground deformation effects on structural systems remains an area of major challenges. Effective and efficient nonlinear soil and structural models are needed. Ca1ibration of the employed numerical procedures requires significant effort and judgment. In this regard, large one-g shake table and centrifuge testing facilities worldwide are generating valuable datasets and insights for geotechnical earthquake engineering applications. In each experiment, hundreds of sensors - record salient features of the involved response, providing new horizons for the development and calibration of high-fidelity computational simulation tools. Such datasets along with high-performance parallel computing environments are increasingly permitting the evolution of insights, gained from analyses of entire ground-foundation-structural systems. Results are shown for situations of ground modification as a liquefaction countermeasure, and for a ground-foundation-structure seismic response scenario. A user interface for lateral pile response simulations is also discussed in order to facilitate such studies by interested researchers and engineers.

19 illus, 30 ref

007175   Bothara J K;Mander J B;Dhakal R P;Khare R K; Maniyar M M (Beca Carter Hollings & Ferner Ltd., , Wellington, New Zealand) : Seismic performance and financial risk of masonry houses. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2007, 44(3-4), 421-44.

Seismic behaviour of a typical unreinforced masonry (URM) brick house is experimentally investigated. A half-scale URM house model with aspect ratio of 1 .5: I in plan is constructed and tested on a shaking table, in the longitudinal direction for several earthquake ground motions with peak ground acceleration (PGA) up to O.5g. The structure is then rotated by 90° and tested in the transverse (short) direction for ground motions with PGA up to 0.8g. A finite element analysis and a mechanism analysis are conducted to assess the dynamic properties and lateral strength of the model house. Seismic fragility function of the URM houses is developed based on the experimental results. Damping at different phases of the response is estimated by using an amplitude-dependent equivalent viscous damping model. Financial risk of similar URM houses is then estimated in terms of expected annual loss (EAL) by following a probabilistic financial risk assessment framework. Risks posed by different levels of damage and by earthquakes of different predominant frequencies are then examined.

11 illus, 13 tables, 51 ref

006176   Sreenivas C;Konda Reddy C;Sreedevi P (NO, A.P. Water Management Project, Net Work Centre, Undi-534 199) : Feasibility study of filter material for subsurface drainage system: Kalipatnam. Andhra Agric J 2008, 55(1), 52-6.

Filter material requirement for installation of subsurface system of Kalipatnam pilot area was assessed based on the soil texture at drain depth, soil SAR, ground and irrigation water quality. Textural analysis data at the sampling points were interpreted with the help of textural class, particle size distribution curve, per cent clay, clay/silt ratio and Surfer 7.0 map for clay%. Based on the results, filter material is required for installation of subsurface system and out of the tested prediction criteria for requirement of filter material clay % mapping, clay%, textural class, particle size distribution curve are giving good indication of filter material whereas auger hole is over estimating for these soils. Clay/silt ratio criteria of 0.5 are not fitting for these soils. Surfer 7.0 mapping of percent clay at drain depth is giving best estimate out of the tested criteria.

3 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

006175   Rayaz K (Geography Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir-185 212, Email: rayazgeography@rediffmail.com) : Hydrometerological and physico-chemical characteristics of Tattapani hot water spring Kalakote, (J & K) India. Aquacult 2008, 9(2), 257-61.

Tattapani, the only hot water spring at Kalakote tehsil of Rajouri district is not only known for its therapeutic properties but also possessing charming environment for recreational purposes. The investigation seeks to analyze the seasonal variability of climatic phenomenon like air pressure, atmospheric temperature, relative humidity and rainfall along with the in depth study of physico- chemical characteristics of hot water spring. The study established the fact that hot water spring of Kalakote is acting as malady for chronic rheumatism, uric and other forms of arthritis, neuritis and other neurological disorder, cutaneous diseases, gynecological diseases and allergies.

4 tables, 6 ref

005225   Upadhye M V;Jadhav U;Patil R C;Utekar A Y (Life sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Santacruz (E), Mumbai-400 098) : Analysis of water samples from a bivalve inhabiting dam, Dhasai, Thane district. Aquacult 2008, 9(1), 109-11.

Freshwater mussels are considered as indicators of the health of the environment as their distribution depends on various physico-chemical parameters of the water-bodies they inhabit thus acting as indicators of water quality. The investigation was undertaken to analyse water samples collected from the occurring zone of bivalves in the dam, Thane district.

2 tables, 8 ref

005224   Shandilya A K;Dube P;Parihar P (Geology Dep, Dungar College, Bikaner-334 001) : Ground water fluctuation around nokha (Bikaner, Rajasthan). Oikoassay 2007, 20(1-2), 23-8.

The ground water in the study area is deep and found between 41.20 to113.00 m in 2005 and 40.68 to 113.00 m in 2006 and shows a wide range of depths to water conditions. The minimum and maximum depth to water conditions in both the years is found at Jesalsar (Well No. 21) and Masuri (Well No.5). The difference between values of minimum and maximum depth to water levels is 71.80 m and 72.32 m respectively in pre-monsoon periods of 2005 and 2006. The low depths to water conditions are present in Nagaur Sandstone and in the area occupied with Aeolian Plain, whereas deeper depths to water conditions are found in Tertiary Sandstone and in the area covered by Dune Vale Complexes. There is a mixed trend of positive and negative fluctuations in the ground water levels of the area. There is a strip trending east west showing negative fluctuation in the middle part of the area, which is divided into three sub-regions, the eastern, central part and western. The important villages with negative fluctuation are Gajsukhdesar, Sajanwasi, Kakara, Himatasar, Mukam, Morkhana, Nokha Mandi, and Hiyandesar. The maximum negative value of fluctuation is -3.15 m observed at village Gajsukhdesar. The areas with positive fluctuation found in the northern and southern periphery of the study area. The maximum value of positive fluctuation 2.75 m is observed at Well No.1, i.e. village Badhnu. The important villages present in northern part with positive fluctuation are Lalamdesar, Kuchor Aguni, Sowa, Rasisar, Surpura, and Salundiya. The villages in southern part with positive fluctuation are Mainsar, Biramsar, Raisar, and Mundar.

1 illus, 4 tables, 3 ref

005223   Gaur A;Devendra Mohan (Zoology Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 005) : Water quality assessment of jajiwal pond, Jodhpur (Raj). Aquacult 2008, 9(1), 75-81.

Attempt was made to assess water quality and trophic status of Jajiwal pond by studying physio-chemical parameters like, temperature, pH, transparency, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, BOD, TDS, carbonate, bicarbonate, hardness, productivity, nitrate, phosphate and bacterial load. Temperature ranged from 15.2°C to 35.7°C, pH 7.81 to 8.96, transparency 31.4 to 57.5 cm dissolved oxygen 1.98 to 7.903 mg/l, free carbon dioxide nil to 18 ppm, BOD 0.479 to 2.352 mg/l, TDS 420 to 1460 mg/l, Carbonate nil to 80 mg/l, Bicarbonate 18 mg/l to 170 mg/l, Hardness 48 mg/l to 141 mg/l, GPP 0.3456 to 3-01 gC/m²/day, NPP 0.343 to 2.83 gC/ m²day, Nitrate 4.219 to 16.46 μg/l and Phosphate 0.927 to 6.9 μg/l. MPN ranged from 12 to 550/100 ml and Streptococcus faecalis 0 to 2180 col./100 ml. Inter-correlation and analysis of variance of different parameters were also worked out The results were compared with permissible limit suggested by WHO and ISL The results were analyzed in the light of water quality indexes that indicated the quality of water as "Medium or average".

2 tables, 36 ref

004272   Vimal Singh;Tandon S K;Vaibhava Singh;Mukul M;Thamo-Bozso E (Geology Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007) : Geometry and development of the Jhajara thrust: an example of neotectonic activity in the Pinjaur Dun, NW Himalaya. Curr Sci 2008, 94(5), 623-8.

Mountain fronts of orogenic belts are marked by dynamic landscape changes under the influence of contemporary tectonic activity. Longitudinal valleys (locally called as Duns) constitute important landforms associated with some segments of the Himalayan mountain front. A neotectonic feature - the Jhajara thrust, has been identified in the Pinjaur Dun of NW Himalaya on the basis of structural mapping and tectonic geomorphological analysis. Optically stimulated luminescence dating on quartz sand samples from the geomorphic surface constrains the last displacement associated with the Jhajara thrust to before 55.7 ± 6 ka BP.

2 illus, 24 ref

004271   Tiwari M (NO, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehra Dun-248 001, Email: mtiwari@wihg.res.in) : Additional neoproterozoic sponge spicules from Gangolihat dolomite, Kumaun Lesser Himalaya, India. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 49-55.

Exceptionally well-preserved but isolated hexactinellid and monaxon sponge spicules are described from the Terminal Proterozoic Gangolihat Dolomite of Kumaun Lesser Himalaya, India. The small size of spicules indicates existence of small ancestral sponges during Neoproterozoic. Fossils of entire sponges are still not known from the Neoproterozoic.

4 illus, 44 ref

004270   Thakur N K;Prasad P S R;Kumar A P (NO, National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Email: nkthakur46@yahoo.com) : Does Himalayan region hold gas hydrates?. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 57-62.

Gas hydrates with vast energy resources are seen as viable alternative to the conventional form of energy in the near future. The pressure, temperature and suitable geological conditions (total organic content) are conducive for their formation in permafrost and deep marine environments. The estimated gas-hydrate reserves are around 20,000 gigatons of carbon. These estimates are based on the resources from identified regions in the permafrost and deep-water environment. Recently the presence of gas hydrates has been reported in the high altitude Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The Himalayan fold belt is the consequence of folding of sediments of the Tethys Sea, which subducted under this region at the time of collision of Indian and Eurasian plates. The Tethyan Himalayas with extensive coverage, suitable geological and temperature conditions provide avenues for probable formation of hydrates in the Himalayan region. Attempts to present the geological, pressure and temperature conditions that are conducive for the formation of gas hydrates in the Himalaya.

6 illus, 15 ref

004269   Subrahmanyam V;Krishna K S;Ramana M V;Murthy K S R (Regional Centre, National Institute of Oceanography, 176, Lawson's Bay Colony, Visakhapatnam-530 017, Email: svn@nio.org) : Marine geophysical investigations across the submarine canyon (Swatch-of-no-ground), northern Bay of Bebgal. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 507-13.

Multibeam swath bathymetry, gravity and magnetic investigations were conducted across the major delta-front canyon known as Swatch-of-No-Ground in the northern Bay of Bengal. The study reveals that the canyon is a 300 m deep and 18 km wide depression with step-like micro-terraces running in NNE-SSW direction. The depth to the seafloor topography varies from 900 to 1459 m with 100-150 m thick levee sediments deposited on both the edges of the canyon as seafloor swells spreading over a distance of 10-20 km. In the area north of the 20°07'N lat., the canyon is characterized by a gentle step-like slope towards the western flank and a steep slope towards the eastern flank, while in the area south of the 20°07'N lat., the morphology of the canyon is vice versa. The anatomy of the canyon suggests that the turbidity sediments flow in a semi-circular manner within it. When the muddy sediments strike the flank within the canyon, a part gets bounced-off in an orthogonal direction to the semicircular turbidity flow leading to the formation of steplike small terraces on the other flank of the canyon. The canyon is associated with a low gravity field of about 15 mGal and weak magnetic field of the order of 30-40 nT. The model study revealed that the submarine canyon is not associated with any structural discontinuities such as faults and folds. Hence, it is surmised that the submarine canyon is a morphological feature formed by major river flow and underwater currents in the northern Bay of Bengal.

^ssc7 illus, 12 ref

004268   Srikantappa C;Palanisamy V;Malathi M N (Geology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: srikantappa@googlemail.com) : Ore petrography and fluid inclusion study of molybdenum bearing quartz veins from Harur-Uttangarai sher zone, Tamilnadu, South India.. Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 176-99.

Charnockitic-enderbitic granulites within the Harur-Uttangarai Shear Zone (HUSZ) show ductile to ductile/brittle shear deformation and retrograde metamorphic alterations, leading to the formation of epidote-hornblende-biotite gneiss. Molybdenum bearing quartz veins have been intruded into the epidote-hornblende-biotite gneiss during syn to post shear deformation. Ore petrographic studies show certain interesting textural features which are indicative of deformation, recrystallization and replacement. Molybdenite occurs as thin plates, platy aggregates and also as rosette shaped aggregates. Based on the textures the paragenetic sequence recorded are: Pyrite→Rutile→Chalcopyrite<142>< F255>Galena→Molybdenite→Rutile 2nd gen.→Pyrite 2 gen. Fluid inclusion study in charnockitic granulites, epidote-hornblende-biotite gneiss and molybdenum bearing quartz veins show presence of CO₂, mixed CO₂-H₂O and H₂O-.NaCl fluids with varying densities. In molybdenum bearing quartz veins, three types of fluid inclusions viz., Type I: Low density CO, rich inclusions in quartz, Type II: mixed CO₂-H₂O inclusions and Type III: low salinity H₂O-NaCl inclusion have been recorded. Based on micro-textural relations and chronology of fluids trapped in minerals, combined with mineral P-T data, the timing of molybdenum mineralization is interpreted to be post-peak metamorphic with respect to both Ml and M2 event in the area. Molybdenum mineralization which is mainly confined to HUSZ is related to M3 event and took place during syn to post shear deformation in the area. Presence of low density CO₂ and mixed CO₂-H₂O fluids in the molybdenumbearing quartz veins indicate that mineralization took place at shallower crustal depths of about 8 to 10 km (~ 2 to 2.5 kb), under low temperature conditions of 300 to 400°C.

16 illus, 23 ref

004267   Sreedhar A K;Balakrishnan S;Pappu S;Akhilesh Kumar (Earth Sciences Dep, Pondicherry University, Puducherry-605 014, Email: sbala_2002@yahoo.com) : Clay mineralogical studies of sediments and strontium isotope analyses on calcretes at the prehistoric site of Attirampakkam, Tamil Nadu. Curr Sci 2008, 94(6), 779-86.

Archaeological excavations at the Palaeolithic site of Attirampakkam, Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, yielded artefacts dating to the Lower and Middle Palaeo lithic cultural phases assigned to the Middle to Late Pleistocene. This communication reports preliminary results of clay mineral analysis, which suggests the influence of both provenance and climate during the Pleistocene. The higher ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr values suggest chemical weathering of silicate minerals present in the host sediments as the predominant source for ea in the calcretes.

^ssc8 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

004266   Soni A S;Soni V S;Dhillon D S (History Dep, Punjabi University, Patiala-147 002, Email: vidwansoni@rediffmail.com) : Large assemblages of flakes and cores found on dated young terraces of river Satluj and its tributaries. Curr Sci 2008, 94(5), 577-80.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

004265   Somayaji K M;Venkatesan R;Gomathinayagam S (Radiological Safety Division, Safety Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam-603 102) : Design and operation of a 50 m tall meteorological tower and data-acquisition system for realtime applications. Curr Sci 2008, 94(6), 721-8.

Describes the implementation of meteorological measurement facility by installing 50 m tall towers at Kalpakkam for atmospheric dispersion studies. Though nothing novel could apparently be attributed to the idea of writing an article on the tower, the cost-effective structural design portability-recoverability, in-house design of the signal conditioners, remote data acquisition system (RDAS) with a more generic input database covering various sensor models, user-friendly software and on-line data communication links through ethernet, e-mail, RF transceivers, etc. - all with commercially available low-cost systems - are salient novel features of the tower considered worth reporting. Traditionally occurring practical problems of maintenance, access to sensors at various levels, heavy foundation requirements for a stand-alone tower, etc. have been addressed during the design of the tower structure. On the application side, real-time tower data are obtained as input to an operational meso-scale dispersion model for nuclear emergency response management.

12 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

004264   Singh V;Khare M C (School of Studies in Earth Science, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior, Email: vinesha2005@yahoo.co.in) : Physico-chemical analysis of ground water for evaluation of drinking water quality near Malanpur Bhind district. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 73-80.

The Physico-chemical analysis of groundwater of the parts of Bhind district have been studied to assess the quality of water for domestic needs and to identify various parameters which are exceeding the permissible limits for drinking water. It was observed that the main sources of pollution & excess limits of ions overdue to poor sanitation, discharge of wastes & poor sewage facility, Forty two water samples were collected from dug-cum bored wells tapping shallow to deep aquifers from the clay with Kankar, silt, sandstone, etc. The quality analysis was made through the estimation of chloride, Bicarbonate, pH, EC, Sodium. Calcium. Total dissolved solids & total hardness. The analytical data are processed and interpreted as per standard Laboratory methods by APHA. Hence the chemical quality of groundwater, available in the area is discussed in relation to domestic purposes.

4 illus, 3 table, 24 ref

004263   Sen D K (NO, , ) : Review of the apparent paradox in the measurement of atmospheric pressure vis-a-vis estimation of pressure of air within an enclosure. Indian Sci Cruiser 2007, 21(4), 43-6.

The air surrounding the planet earth has its weight, which presses anything on the surface of the earth, or any imaginary surface assumed to be constructed at any point and in any direction of its thickness. This weight factor has been suitably defined to be the physical parameter universally known as the pressure of air atmosphere. The measurement of this parameter has proceeded in two different ways viz, Hydrostatic approach and kinetic theory approach. But the two procedures apparently may lead to a certain apparent anomaly under specific cases. In this discussion one such anomaly is discussed and attempt has been made to show that the anomaly is not real and that the two concepts are really the two ways of looking at the same thing.

2 illus

004262   Selvan T A;Gopalakrishnan K (NO, , No. 47, East Park Road, Shenoy Nagar, Chennai-600 030) : Tectonic evolution of pikkili syenite complex Dharmapuri district, Tamilnadu. Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 129-43.

Pikkili syenite complex (PSC) is one of the two under-saturated alkaline complexes occurring within southern granulite terrain (SGT), India. PSC occurs as a linear spindle shaped NNE-SSW trending body along the margin of Kollegal-Krishnagiri terrane (KKT) and Dharmapuri suture-rift zone (DSRZ). PSC is composed of two distinct types of syenites, one being dark meso to melanocratic basic variety and the other being a leucocratic felsic type. They occur as long linear sub-parallel bands and lenses within leucocratic gneissic granite. The dark bands are essentially made up of pyroxene-hornblende syenite carrying smaller lenses and bands of pyroxene-hornblende-nepheline syenite and ijolite, while the leucocratic bands carry pink coarse to pegmatoidal perthtic syenite with minor lenses of quartz-syenite. Thin bands of alkali granite occur separately in a few places within gneissic granite. Linear zones of syenite-gneisses formed by the permeations of syenitic materials into gneissic granite and charnockite are noticed along the outer margins of the complex. The entire PSC is enveloped by a narrow zone of gabbro. The dark basic syenites of PSC are characterized by the major minerals hastingsite, Na-rich diopside, aegirine-augite, aegirine, hornblende, nepheline and minor biotite, as well as accessory minerals such as apatite, sphene, calcite, ilmenite/magnetite and zircon, which are typical of 'miaskitic syenites' The above lithological association points out that PSC belongs to the group of "gabbroid-alkaline association". The linear zones of various lithologies of PSC are controlled by the deep crustal faults and shears trending parallel to the suture margin of DSRZ as defined by the NNE-SSW oriented Mettur-Palakkodu lineament (MPL). This field relationship clearly suggests that PSC is emplaced in the compressive tectonic phase related to the DSRZ development.

1 illus, 28 ref

004261   Sarkar R K;Saha D K;Chowdhuri S N (Central Geophysics Div, Geological Survey of India, 27, J.L. Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 016, Email: rk_sarkar_cal@yahoo.co.in) : Identification and mapping of the intracrustal density interfaces of a part of Kumaun-Garhwal Himalaya from harmonic inversion of Bouguer anomaly. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 81-5.

Spectral analysis of Bouguer anomaly of a part of Kumaun-Garhwal area bounded by latitudes 29°N and 31°N and longitudes 78°E and 80°E has indicated the existence of two principal intracrustal density interfaces with mean depths estimated at 3.5 km and 13.5 km respectively. The demarcated density interface at a mean depth of 13.5 km corresponds to the thickness of the upper crustal layer. The density interface at a mean depth of 3.5 km represents the thickness of incompetent formations of the Lesser Himalaya. The mapped depth variations, as reflected from spectral estimates, in respect of the two density interfaces, are caused by thrust and strike-slip faults in the area under study.

5 illus, 11 ref

004260   Sarkar R;Dutta S;Panigrahy S (Faculty of Technology, UBKV, Pundibari, Cooch Behar-736 165, Email: subashisa@iitg.ernet.in) : Effect of scale on infiltration in a macropore-dominated hillslope. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 490-4.

Accurate measurement of infiltration for modelling flow and transport processes is critical in macropore-dominated hillslopes, where the flow patterns can change even within a short distance. Study the effect of scale, in situ experiments were conducted using both local and plot-scale measurements. Local-scale infiltration was measured using a double-ring infiltrometer, whereas plot-scale infiltration was estimated by conducting run-off experiments using a sheet flow generation system. The results indicate that the local-scale measurements were not reliable and produced irregular patterns of infiltration. The plot-scale measurements were fairly consistent and accurate in describing the infiltration process.

^ssc4 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

004259   Saini R K;Swain S;Patra A;Khanday G J;Gupta H;Purushothaman P;Chakrapani G J (Earth Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee-247 667, Email: gjcurfes@iitr.ernet.in) : Water chemistry of three Himalyan lakes: Dal (Jammu & Kashmir), Khajjiar (Himachal Pradesh) and Nainital (Uttarakhand). Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 63-72.

Comparative study of major elements composition (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, HCO-₃, SO^2-₄ and Cl-) and nutrients (PO^3- , NO-₃, SiO₂) of Dal Lake (Jammu & Kashmir), Khajjiar Lake (Himachal Pradesh) and Nainital Lake (Uttarakhand) situated in the Himalayas is discussed in the work. All the three lakes are important tourist destinations and are characterized by varied lithology and land use. High total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, bicarbonate, sulfate and nitrate concentrations in the Nainital lake and the Dal lake reflect anthropogenic inputs in the form of sewage from surrounding areas, houseboats, hotels, etc. Total dissolved solid (TDS) concentrations are high in Nainital Lake followed by Dal Lake and Khajjiar Lake. The major ion chemistry of all the three lakes is dominated by carbonate source rock weathering. The lakes are characterized by high nutrient concentrations. Water quality index (WQI) determined for two of the lakes (Nainital and Dal) indicate high pollution index. The samples were collected during one season and hence the discussion pertains to the period of sampling only.

8 illus, 5 tables, 28 ref

004258   Rajendran S;Thirunavukkarasu A;Poovalinga Ganesh B;Shankar K;Maharani K (Earth Sciences Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: sankaranrajendran@yahoo.com) : Petrological and geochemical studies of amphibolites in parts of Salem district, Tamilnadu, India. Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 169-75.

Amphibolites occur in the form of small patches within the Peninsular gneiss around Salem, Tamilnadu. Hornblende, actinolite, clinopyroxene, plagioclase and opaques are the dominant minerals. Major and trace elements geochemistry suggest that the amphibolites are originated from TiO₂-Fe-rich tholeiitic magma. The high concentration of Ti, Zr, Cr and Y distinguishes its tholeiitic characters. The plot of TiO₂ vs FeO + Fe₂O₃ + MgO show that they are ortho-amphibolites indicating to their igneous origin.

7 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

004257   Rai A K;Singh V B;Maurya A S;Shukla S (Earth and Planetary Sciences Dep, Nehru Science Centre, university of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002, Email: akrai@sancharnet.in) : Ventilation of northwestern arabian sea oxygen minimum zone during last 175 kyrs: a pteropod record atODP site 728A. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 480-5.

Pteropod assemblages were studied at ODP Site 728A near the Oman margin (northwestern Arabian Sea) lying at a water depth of 1428 m, just below the present-day Oxygen Minimum Zone (OMZ) and aragonite compensation depth (ACD). Variations in the strength of OMZ over the past 175 kyrs in the northwestern Arabian Sea were reconstructed on the basis of changing abundances of pteropod at this site. The down-core abundance reveals pteropod spikes at the transitions of isotope stage MIS 6/5, MIS 2/1 and during glacial stages MIS 6 and MIS 2, reflecting deepening of ACD and relatively less intense OMZ in this region, possibly due to deep-sea mixing and thermocline ventilation, and the relative decline in surface productivity during winter monsoon. In general, the interglacial periods are largely devoid of, or marked with low pteropod abundances, indicating dissolution of aragonite due to increased intensity of OMZ in the northwestern Arabian Sea. The distinct peak of abundance of Limacina inflata and mesopelagic forms during transition of MIS 6/5 reflects relatively lower surface productivity compared to MIS 2/1 transition. However, both these transitions are marked with intense deep-sea ventilation. This explains that the pteropod preservation is mainly influenced by the fluctuations in the OMZ due to deep-sea ventilation and remains largely independent of variations in the surface productivity. Thus, the dissolution and not the lack of supply is mainly responsible for the low abundances of pteropod shells in the deep-sea sediments of the high-productivity regions like the Oman margin.

^ssc50 illus, 26 ref

004256   Purushothaman P;Soren A;Chakrapani G J (Earth Sciences Dep, IIT Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Email: gjcurfes@iitr.ernet.in) : Phosphorous fractionation in Nainital lake sediments. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 73-9.

In lake eutrophication studies, it is always essential to estimate various phosphorous fractions in order to understand the bioavailability of phosphorous. In the study, phosphorous in various chemical fractions of sediments from the Nainital Lake was determined to ascertain abundance of phosphorous as inorganic, organic, nonapatite inorganic or as apatite phosphorous fraction. The results show, apatite phosphorous to be the dominant form of phosphorous in the Nainital lake sediments accounting for >50% of the total phosphorous. Usage of the Visual Minteq data analysis software of water composition also indicates higher concentrations of orthophosphate.

3 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

004255   Pandya T K;Jodhawat R L;Pandya M K (Geology Dep, Mohanlal Sukhadia Univ, 51, Sarawati Marg, Udaipur-313 001) : Metamorphic and deformation features from the proterozoic stratiform massive-sulfide deposits of basantgarh-watera belt, Sirohi district, Rajasthan, India. Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 153-68.

The stratiform massive sulfide deposits of Basantgarh-Watera belt, forming part of Delhi Supergroup apart from well preserved depositional and diagenetic features they show number of metamorphic and deformation features which are being described. The massive sulfide deposits of Basantgarh-Watera belt are hosted by pelitic schists, calc-silicate rocks, impure marbles, impure quartzites, amphibolites, meta-ultramafites, meta-basalts and mafic and felsic tuffs. The major ore minerals of the deposits are pyrite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, pyrrhotite, magnetite and bornite along with very minor quantities of galena, tetrahedrite-tennantite, marcasite, pyrargyrite, argentite, native silver, covellite, chalcocite, gold minerals and cubanite. The main metamorphic features of the deposits are preferred orientation of minerals, development of cubes and trapezoid shaped porphyroblasts of pyrite, existence of homogeneous and exsolved-bodies of minerals, development of translation twinning, occurrence of hook and caries as well as myrmekitic textures and formation of skeletal minerals. Pyrite porphyroblasts contain inclusions of sulfide and silicate minerals indicating change in the fabric due to recrystallisation and deformation producing porphyroblasts of pyrite of varying shapes and sizes. Annealing texture is indicated by triple point junction in pyrite grains. The deformational features are indicated by high degree of granulation and brecciation of quartz and feldspar minerals, elongation of pyrite, formation of pressure shadow tails and rotation of pyrite metablasts, ultimately resulting into rounded grains of quartz and pyrite forming the characteristic ball texture. Formation of polygonal shaped porphyroblasts and boudinage structure in pyrite and tectonic-melange further strengthens the impact of deformation and cataclasis. The features of remobilization are exhibited by healing of cataclastically deformed and fractured pyrite and magnetite by sulfide minerals and migration of sulfide minerals in pressure shadow tails of deformed pyrite grains and silicate fragments. The other features of remobilization are the concentration of sulfide minerals along the hinge zone of folds and development of durchbewegung fabric. The various ore minerals have also migrated along the fractures of different ore and gangue minerals.

19 illus, 33 ref

004254   Nainwal H C;Negi B D S;Chaudhary M;Sajwan K S;Gaurav A (Geoloy Dep, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar (Garhwal)-246 174) : Temporal changes in rate of recession: evidences from Satopanth and Bhagirath kharak glaciers, Uttarakhand, using total station survey. Curr Sci 2008, 94(5), 653-60.

Snouts of Satopanth and Bhagirath Kharak glaciers, located at the head of the Alaknanda valley in Chamoli District, Uttarakhand, were monitored using Total Station Survey. Retreat of the snouts and area vacated by recession of the glaciers were estimated for 44 years by way of superimposing the Survey of India toposheet of 1962 on the map prepared by Total Station Survey in 2006. The total area vacated by the Satopanth and Bhagirath Kharak glaciers during 44 years was 313,923.14 sq. m (0.314 sq. km) and 129,369.16 sq. m (0.13 sq. km) respectively. The annual average retreat of the snout of the Satopanth glacier between 1962 and 2005 (43 years) was estimated as 22.88 m/yr, whereas retreat was low (7.42 m/yr) for the Bhagirath Kharak glacier. Interestingly, actual field measurements for the year 2005-06, showed an estimated retreat of 6.5 and 1.5 m/yr for the Satopanth and Bhagirath Kharak glaciers respectively. Snouts of the Satopanth and Bhagirath Kharak glaciers recorded continuous recession for the past four decades, with decline in recession of both cases. Both glaciers are situated in the same basin and experience similar climatic conditions. However, different recession rates of glaciers are attributed to unequal distribution of tributary glaciers, active cirques, drainage characteristics, density and distribution of supra glacial debris over the glacier surface.

^ssc6 illus, 7 tables, 22 ref

004253   Mundepi A K (NO, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehra Dun-248 001, Email: akmundepi@wihg.res.in) : Site response studies using horizontal to vertical ratio in the city of Chandigarh, North India. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 87-93.

Expanding city of Chandigarh is located in frontal part of the Himalaya, near the potentially active Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT). Hence hazard assessment for this city is of great importance. The application of the horizontal to vertical (H/V) of ambient noise spectral ratio for characterising earthquake site effect caused by near surface topography and velocity structures at sites underlain by thick sediment deposits can potentially amplify the earthquake shaking which in turn will enhance the earthquake disaster. The study has applied the H/V ratio methodology i.e., Nakamura technique, to estimate the resonance frequency, ranges from 0.236 to 1.479 Hz, for preparation of seismic microzonation map of the city. The sediment thickness increases towards north-eastern and eastern parts of the city as inferred by the study. The other geophysical techniques (MASW, SASW etc) can be applied to the problem, to get an accurate solution, but H/V spectral ratio study can be a valuable additional tool for investigating seismic hazard mitigation.

4 illus, 51 ref

004252   Kotlia B S;Sanwal J;Bhattacharya S K (Geology Dep, Kumaun University, Nainital-263 002, Email: bskotlia@yahoo.com) : Climatic record between ca. 31 and 22 ka BP in East-Central Uttarakhand Himalaya, India. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 25-33.

Events of neotectonic activity during the Late Quaternary in the Kumaun Himalaya have been responsible for reactivation of faults/thrusts and blockade of ancient drainage resulting in the impoundment of rivers/streams and formation of lakes. Created by neotectonism, one such primeval lake was formed at Dulam (District Bageshwar) due to damming of the Saryu River, approximately 31 ka BP and breached around 22 ka BP. Reports major climatic events of this period by studying a 5m thick fluvio-lacustrine profile. Although the chronology of the profile is speculative, the most preliminary multi-proxy results indicate climatic amelioration between ca. 31.3 and 30.0 ka BP, cold/arid conditions from 30.0 to 28.9 ka BP, warm/humid phase from ca. 28.9 to 27.4 ka BP, shift to aridity during ca. 27.4 to 26.8 ka BP and humid/moist conditions from ca. 26.8 to 25.3 ka BP. The semi-arid conditions prevailed between ca. 25.3 and 24.5 ka BP, followed by a shift to humidity from 24.5 to 22.4 ka BP and onset of aridity around 22.4 ka BP.

6 illus, 1 table, 50 ref

004251   Hooja R (Personnel and Administrative reforms Dep, Govt of Rajasthan, Jaipur) : Managing water in rural areas: an institutional and multi-use perspective. Wat Energy int 2007, 64(4), 22-9.

Takes a look at water management and governance related issues in rural India at the district or local/regional levels.

004250   Goyal V;Jhorar B S;Malik R S;Streck T (Water Technology Centre, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: vishal_goyal11@rediffmail.com) : Performance evaluation of aquifer storage recovery wells for conjunctive water management as influenced by buffer storage volume and storage time. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 465-72.

Field experiments were carried out in a cavity type of aquifer storage recovery (ASR) well installed in an aquifer having highly saline native groundwater (EC = 28.4 dS per m). Good quality canal water (EC = 0.46 dS per m) was injected to investigate the effect of buffer storage volume (varying from 2000 to 14,000 cubic m) and storage time (varying from 2.5 to 70 days) on the recovery efficiency in five ASR test cycles. Field experiments with different ASR cycles showed that the recovery efficiency increased with inªcreasing buffer storage volume and decreased with increasing storage time. For buffer storage volume of 14,000 cubic m and storage time of 13 days, the observed instantaneous recovery efficiency (IRE) and integrated recovery efficiency (CRE) at the target water quality of 2 dS per m of the recovered water were 80.2 and 108% respectively. At the test site it was observed that a buffer storage volume of 14,000 cubic m was essential to create a buffer zone of good-quality water between native saline groundwater and reusable freshwater zone to achieve a good recovery efficiency of injected water after a storage time of 70 days. The ASR technique was found practically feasible and economically viable for reclamation of groundwater quality under shallow water-table condition.

7 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

004249   Govindaiah S;Jagadeesh C;Suresh B (Geology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangothri, Mysore-570 006) : Microstructural evolution of V-Ti magnetite layers of Devaranarasipur ultramafic-mafic complex in Shimoga schist belt of Dharwar craton, India. Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 144-52.

The Devaranarasipur ultramafic-mafic complex forms a part of the Shimoga schist belt in western Dharwar craton. This layered complex consists of V-Ti magnetite layers alternating with gabbro-anorthosite, peridotite and pyroxenite layers and intruded into the Peninsular gneisses and supracrustal rocks of Dharwar supergroup. The ore-rich layers consist of closely-packed, polyhedral Ti magnetite crystals that meet in distinct triple junctions. They also contain ilmenite (10 to 15%), pleonaste (5 to 10%) and silicates (plagioclase and chlorite). The grain boundary relations among the ore minerals suggest a considerable postcumulus growth and readjustment due to the combined effects of annealing (sintering) and adcumulus growth. The lamellae of ulvospinel in Ti-magnetite crystals indicate to their formation through exsolution under conditions of low oxygen fugacities during subsolidus cooling. External granules and various types of ilmenite lamellae are considered to have formed by contemporaneous exsolution-oxidation under slightly higher oxygen fugacities. The ores show various degrees of oxidation and hydration that are related to near surface weathering processes.

8 illus, 8 ref

004248   Gopalakrishnan K (NO, , No. 30/6 (old no. 41/6), 3rd Main Road, R.A.Puram, Chennai-600 028, Email: k_gopalakrish@yahoo.com) : Deep crustal faults and fractures and their role in the development of southern granulite terrain, India. Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 112-28.

The deep crustal faults and fractures in the Southern Granulite Terrain (SGT), India are classified into two groups, based on the types of forces, either compressive or tensional, in their development. The timing of the faults and the crustal and structural elements related to faults in different sectors of SGT are discussed. The significance of faults in the derivation of juvenile melts from the mantle, addition of secondary magma from crustal reworking and the roles of both types of magmas in the accretion of the SGT crust are analysed. The differences in the composition, nature, behavior and mode of emplacement of these different materials through space and time along the two groups of faults are described. Evidences for the reactivation and reworking of these deep crustal faults in the later periods as well as their effects in the shaping of SGT are presented.

4 illus, 57 ref

004247   Fotedar A;Tikoo V J;Verma R;Fotedar B K (Environmental Sciences Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu) : Quality of Jajjar nalla and Painthal nalla waters of Udhampur district, Jammu Himalaya, in Relation to human consumpation and agricultural use. Andhra Agric J 2008, 55(2), 195-203.

Ten water samples, each from Jajjar and Painthal nallas, Udhampur district, J&K were analysed for Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. In both streams, all the elements were present within the permissible limits except Fe and Mn which were found higher according to Bureau of Indian Standard (1991) and WHO (1984). Sulphates, bicarbonates and nitrates were all found in safer levels and as such the waters of both these streams are considered fit for human consumption and also for agriculture. For irrigation purposes all the cations were present in safer levels and cannot be considered harmful. Total Dissolved Salts (TDS), Total Hardness (TH), conductivity and pH are all present in safer levels. Low values of SAR and SSP are both favourable indicators for using the waters of the streams for irrigation. The higher turbidity values in both the streams are objectionable.

1 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

004246   Eldho T I;Singh A K;Jha A;Jana R (Civil Engng Dep, IIT, Mumbai) : GIS and SCS-CN based integrated model for rainfall-runoff simulation of ungauged watershed. Wat Energy int 2007, 64(4), 30-9.

The SCS-CN model has been used with the GIS to take into spatial variations of the data of the watershed considered. Effort has been made to integrate these two modelling tools to provide more efficient assessment procedures in watershed modelling. The integrated model is applied to an un-gauged watershed for the runoff simulation and the results are found to be satisfactory. Further, for the verification of the model prediction, the SCS model is applied to one Anas sub-catchment for which observed runoff data is available. Reasonable agreement is observed between the measured runoff data and the model simulation results, showing the validity of the model.

11 illus, 26 ref

004245   Dwivedi S B;Lalnunmawia J;Vanthangliana V;Lal S N (Geology Dep, Mizorum Univ, Aizawl-796 009, Email: sbdcharu@yahoo.com) : Refined garnet-biotite thermometer : constraints from empirically derived margules parameters for garnet (ΔW_Ca & ΔW_Mn) and biotite (ΔW_Ai & ΔW_Ti). Indian Mineralogist 2007, 41(2), 97-111.

The relevant Margules parameters for Mg-Fe exchange garnet-biotite have been derived through multivariate regression taking into consideration of non-ideal mixing in garnet and biotite. The Margules parameters have been retrieved through mulitivariate linear regression between the expressions RT1nK_D + (P-1) ΔV° on one side, and mineral composition data on the other side. The database used in the regression includes experimental data (n=12) and selected natural data (n=175) of garnet-biotite pairs from greenschist to granulite facies rocks. The derived Margules parameter of garnet and biotite in joule on one cation basis is given as: Garnet (W_Fe-Ca-W_Mg-Ca) = 2218 - 24.73 Tk (W_Fe-Mn-W_Mg-Mn) = -259 - 10.73Tk Biotite (W_Mg-To-W_Fe-Ti) = -161039 + 167.75Tk (W_Mg-Al -W_Fe-Al) = -6579 + 20.58Tk By using the above derived Margules parameters for non-ideal mixing of Ca and Mn in garnet and Ti and Al^VI in biotite and AH, AS and AV of the exchange reaction, the expression for garnet-biotite thermometer is obtained.

4 illus, 5 tables, 32 ref

004244   Dubey A K;Bhakuni S S (NO, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun-248 001, Email: akdubey@wihg.res.in) : Neotctonic stress and active tectonics in the Garhwal Inner Lesser Himalaya: anisotropy of magnetic suceptibility studies. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1) , 35-47.

Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility study was performed in the Garhwal Inner Lesser Himalaya around Uttarkashi, India. The stress orientations obtained from the magnetic susceptibility axes suggest favourable conditions for initiation of normal faults near surface whereas the recent seismicity indicated a blind thrust. The variation of stress field in the profile section is explained in terms of a blind thrust, fault propagation fold, and extensional strains at higher topographic levels due to gravity gliding.

12 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

004243   Das J P;Murty S V S (Planetary and Geosciences Division, Physical Research Laboratory, , Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: murty@prl.res.in) : Nitrogen isotopes in chondrules: signatures of precursors and formation processes. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 485-9.

Nitrogen isotope abundance of 68 individual chondrules separated from six ordinary, two carbonaceous and two enstatite has been analysed. N composition of chondrules from ordinary and carbonaceous chondrites generally shows large variation and differs from that of their host. This large range of N composition suggests the presence of different N components in their precursors. Chondrules from the enstatite chondrites on the other hand show N isotopic composition similar to that of their host, suggesting precursors with similar N components for both chondrules and their host meteorites. Nitrogen isotopic systematics therefore distinguishes chondrules in enstatite chondrites from those in ordinary and carbonaceous chondrites. Chondrules in ordinary and carbonaceous chondrites require precursors that are different from those of their parent meteorites and formation in nebular environment, whereas chondrules in enstatite chondrites are formed from the same precursors as those of their host chondrites and presumably in the same region.

2 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

004242   Chandrani Singh;Chadha R K (NO, National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007) : Drained and undrained responses for Koyna - Warna earthquakes from 1993 to 1994 following impoundment of the warna reservoir in India. Curr Sci 2008, 94(6), 790-6.

The Koyna region along the west coast of India in Maharashtra, is a unique case of reservoir triggered seismicity, where seismicity has been reported since 1963 after the initial impoundment of the Shivajisagar reservoir behind Koyna dam in 1961. The region was further destabilized following the filling of the Warna reservoir, situated 25 km south of Koyila, during the late 1980s. Increase in pore pressure by drained and undrained effects is known to weaken the substratum below a water reservoir, facilitating the onset of seismicity. Although their relative influences may vary with time and space, it is difficult to separate their individual contributions. The study, using the well-located earthquakes of M ≥ 5 for the period 1993-94, is a preliminary attempt to identify these effects after impoundment of the Warna reservoir. It could provide a good opportunity for further modelling the strength changes due to reservoir impoundment.

^ssc10 illus, 17 ref

004241   Bhosle B;Parkash B;Awasthi A K;Singh S;Khan M S H (Earth Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Email: bparkfes@iitr.ernet.in) : Role of extensional tectonics and climatic changes in geomorphological, pedological and sedimentary evolution of the Western Gangetic Plain (Himalayan Foreland Basin), India. Himalayan Geol 2008, 29(1), 1-23.

Western Gangetic plain shows various geomorphic features such as floodplains, aeolian ridges, terminal fans, palaeochannels, alluvial piedmont plain, plains associated with rivers and interfluve plains. Soil-geomorphic studies of the Ganga-Yamuna Interfluve in the western Gangetic plain, India have enabled the identification of thirty-three soilgeomorphic units. These units are grouped into five morphostratigraphic sequence members viz. QGMS-I to V (Quaternary Geology Morphostratigraphic members). Polymineralic fine grained Luminescence dating bracket these morphostratigraphic members to ages <1.7, 1.8-3.6, 3.7-6.5, 6.6-9.6, >9.6 ka, respectively. Using the satellite remote sensing, digital elevation model and nature of drainage pattern, seventeen faults (3-longitudinal and 14-transverse) are identified. The longitudinal faults show a southwest curvilinear trend, whereas the transverse faults are steeply dipping and nearly perpendicular to the longitudinal faults. Longitudinal faults are the expression of compression from southwest and the transverse faults are attributed to in an extensional regime. Activities along the transverse normal faults led to the deposition of the terminal fans on the downthrown blocks, on which thin channel deposits capped by soils can be observed. Climate seems to have become wet and warm after 10 ka, leading to increase in discharge and incision by rivers and development of areally extensive soils, as compared to the adjoining eastern region marked by a wetter climate, where rivers started degrading just after the Last Glacial Maximum. Also, soils developed in two wet periods 1.7 to 3.6 and 6.5 to 9.6 ka, as compared to the rest of the Holocene, are characterized by increased illuviation.

18 illus, 3 tables, 55 ref

004240   Bhattacharya S;Dash S R;Adhikari S (Civil Engineering Dep, University of Bristol (Previously University of Oxford), Queens Building, BS8 1TR, UK, Email: subhamoy.bhattacharya@eng.ox.ac.uk) : On the mechanics of failure of pile-supported structures in liquefiable deposits during earthquakes. Curr Sci 2008, 94(5), 605-11.

Piles are long, slender members inserted deep into the ground to support heavily loaded structures such as bridges, buildings, jetties or oil platforms, where the ground is not strong enough to support the structure on its own. It is not an overstatement to state that most small to medium span river bridges and most G + 4 buildings are supported on piles. In seismic-prone zones, in areas of loose to medium dense sand, where the groundwater table is near the ground surface, piles are also used to support structures such as buildings and bridges. Under moderate to strong shaking, loose to medium dense, saturated, sandy soil liquefies and behaves like a 'solid suspension' due to the rise in pore water pressure. In other words, the sand behaves like 'quick sand' and cannot bear any load. These soils are termed as 'liquefiable deposits' and the phenomenon is termed as 'liquefaction'. Collapse and/or severe damage to pile-supported structures is still observed in liquefiable soils after most major earthquakes. Therefore, this still remains a great concern to the earthquake engineering community. Explains the mechanics behind the failure of these structures.

8 illus, 17 ref

002223   Vaish A K;Nayak B;Mehrotra S P;Gupta R C (National Metallurgical Laboratory, , Jamshedpur-831 007, Email: brn69@rediffmail.com) : Ni-Cr-Co bearing magnetite ore of Nagaland, India-its mineralogical characteristics. J Metall Mater Sci 2007, 49(4), 215-20.

In contrast to other magnetite ores of India, the magnetite ore deposit of Nagaland is unique in the sense that it is of igneous origin and is associated with ophiolites. The ore body is of strategic importance as it contains significant quantity of nickel, chromium and cobalt. This ore deposit is yet to be exploited. Five different bulk samples from this ore deposit have been mineralogically investigated. It reveals the dominance of magnetite constituting about 40 to 50 percent of the mass. The other oxide minerals recorded are martite, hematite, maghemite, lepidocrocite, goethite and chromite. Sulfides occur in traces. The ferromagnesian silicates are mostly altered to chlorites. Detailed investigation is required (and in progress) to establish the mode of occurrence and distribution of nickel and cobalt.

8 illus, 8 ref

002222   Srinivasa Rao K V;Subba Rao N;Murali Krishna B;Srinivasa Rao P;Subrahmanyam A;John Devadas D;TirupathiRao B (Geology Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: srnandipati@rediffmail.com) : Temporal changes in groundwater quality in an industrian area of Andhra Pradesh, India. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1616-19.

Temporal changes in groundwater quality in the industrialized area of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh have been studied. The results from 1982 to 2006 have been compared. The present study indicates that groundwater is mainly contaminated by SO₄^{2- concentration, which is more than that observed in ground-water in 1982. This is attributed to prolonged persistent and perennial industrial activity rather than other sources on the aquifer chemistry. High concentration of SO₄2- above the safe limit for drinking purposes causes health disorders. Remedial measures have been suggested to control pollution in the groundwater system.}

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

002221   Singh S M;Nayaka S;Upreti D K (NO, , National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, Head Land Sada, Vasco da Gama, Goa-403 804, Email: smsingh@ncaor.org) : Lichen communities in Larsemann hills, East Antarctica. Curr Sci 2007, 93(12), 1670-2.

2 illus, 8 ref

002220   Singh N P (NO, A-5 Saket Housing Colony, Sussen-Tarsali Ring Road, Baroda-390 010, 'Suryansh') : Cenozoic lithostratigraphy of the Jaisalmer Basin, Rajasthan. J Palaeont Soc India 2007, 52(2), 129-54.

The Jaisalmer Basin represents the eastern slielf pan of the Indus Basin and belongs to a major tectonic province known as "West Rajaslhan Shelf" which hosts a number of sedimentary basins viz. Banner, Jaisalmer and Bikaner-Nagaur. The study is confined to the detailed Ceinozoic lithostratigrphy of the Jaisalmer Basin. Availability of voluminous subsurface data generated in ONGC's exploratory wells has facilitated the above study. The Cenozoic lithounits are well exposed in southeastern part of the basin. Based on the study of surface and subsurface sections, the entire Cenozoic sequence is divisible into four formations which arc Sanu, Khuiala, Bandah and Shumar. The maximum development of these formations of the order of more than 2100 m is recorded in deeper part of the basin in the Shahgarh area. One major unconformity between Tertiary and Quaternary sequences along with disconformitics/paraconformitics has been mapped Similarly, non-extension of marine Palaeocene in the outcropping area, thinning and erosion of Tertiary-Quaternary formations in shoreward areas and facies changes in basinward area have been observed. The surface and subsurface lithofacies could be tied up precisely based on adequate biostratigraphic control, and lithostratigraphy has been standardized. Stratotypcs of all formations have been established and their depositional characters along with faunal and floral elements and their stratigraphic relationship with succeeding formations have been discussed.

4 illus, 42 ref

002219   Shukla A K;Rajesh Prakash;Singh R K;Mishra P S;Bhatnagar A K (NO, India Meterological Dep, New Delhi-110 003, Email: atindera_kumar_shukla@hotmail.com) : Seismotectonic implications of Delhi region through fault plane solutions of some recent earthquakes. Curr Sci 2007, 93(12), 1848-53.

Describes fault plane solutions of 19 earthquake events (M_L ≥ 3.0) located in Delhi and its environs in the Delhi Fold Belt (DFB), recorded by 16-elements Seismic VSAT Telemetry Network in and around Delhi established by India Meteorological Department. The fault plane solutions based on P-wave polarity demonstrate that earthquakes in the DFB have a dominant mechanism of thrusting with minor strike-slip components; the nodal planes conform to (i) the Mahendragarh-Dehradun Subsurface Fault trending NNE-SSW and (ii) the Delhi-Sargodha Ridge, trending NW-SE. This communication further analyses seismotectonics of DFB vis-a-vis seismicity pattern.

5 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

002218   Sharma V;Bhagyapati Devi L (Geology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi 110 007) : New radiolarian zones in the early to middle micene of Andaman-Nicobar, Northern Indian ocean. J Palaeont Soc India 2007, 52(2), 155-8.

The evolutionary appearance datum of radiolarian species Dorcadospyris alata from Dorcadospyris dentata is difficult to determine in the Early to Middle Miocene sequences of Andaman-Nicobar due to extremely poor occurrence of both these index taxa. As a result, the datum which is used to delincate the boundary between Calocycletta (C.) costata and Dorcadospyris alata zones according to the existing low latitude zonal scheme cannot be applied satisfactorily. Hence, the last appearance datum of Carpocanopsis cingulata is employed to subdivide the interval represented by combined Calocycletta (C.) costata-Dorcadospyris alatu zones. This led to the recognition of two new zones, the lower. Carpocanopsis cingulata Zone and the upper, Carpocanopsis cristata Zone. The zones can be useful in the tropical Indian Ocean as well.

1 illus, 17 ref

002217   Sajadi S A A (Water and Energy Inst, Sharif Univ of Technology, P.O. Box 11365-8639 Tehran) : Separation of useful compound from coal waste materials. Chem envir Res 2007, 16(3-4), 283-91.

Site visits of selected factories and mines show large amounts of coal were collected as spoil and waste outside these locations due to inefficiency of coal exploiting technology from mined material. The coal content of these waste materials is about 60%. Proposes a method to be used for complete consumption of these materials in industry. In tome samples, volume and weight of spoils could be decreased by half. This also shows that aluminum oxide in industrial and minerals spoils are high, in some samples up to 25%. We suggest some remedies, e.g. we can use ashes produced by complete combustion of coal for production of aluminum hydroxide thus making it economical. More important is that by this method we can decrease environmental danger (hazards) of transferring elements and hazardous compounds, significantly (by preventing their transfer to the environment). Acidity of water drainage mat generally contains high amount of heavy metals and hazardous waste are among important problems in coal Industries

6 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

002216   Roy P N S;Nath S K (Applied Geophysics Dep, Indian School of Mines Univ, Dhanbad-826 004, Email: pns_mayl@yahoo.com) : Precursory correlation dimensions for three great earthquakes. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1522-9.

On 26 December 2004, the Great Sumatra earthquake of M_w = 9 rocked the Southeast Asian continent. Fractal analysis of earthquakes (m_b ≥ 4) occurring during 1996-2005 led to the decrease of correlation dimension in the narrow time-span prior to the mainshock. Such precursors were also observed prior to the 17 August 1999 Izmith earthquake of M_s = 7.8 and the 3 November 2002 Dennali earthquake of M_s = 8.5. Spatio-temporal clustering apparently indicates a highly stressed region, an asperity or weak zone from where the rupture propagation eventually nucleates causing a large earthquake. The results are in conformity with similar analysis for a few earthquakes reported earlier in India and elsewhere.

5 illus, 28 ref

002215   Navalgund R R;Jayaraman V;Roy P S (NO, Space Application Centre, Ambawadi Vistar PO, Jodhpur Tekra, Ahmedabad-380 015, Email: director@sac.isro.gov.in) : Remote sensing application. Curr Sci 2007, 93(12), 1747-66.

Remote Sensing (RS) refers to the science of identification of earth surface features and estimation of their geo-bio-physical properties using electromagnetic radiation as a medium of interaction. Spectral, spatial, temporal and polarization signatures are major characteristics of the sensor/target, which facilitate target discrimination. Earth surface data as seen by the sensors in different wavelengths (reflected, scattered and/or emitted) is radiometrically and geometrically corrected before extraction of spectral information. RS data, with its ability for a synoptic view, repetitive coverage with calibrated sensors to detect changes, observations at different resolutions, provides a better alternative for natural resources management as compared to traditional methods. Indian Earth Observation (EO) programme has been applications-driven and national development has been its prime motivation. From Bhaskara to Cartosat, India's EO capability has increased manifold. Improvements are not only in spatial, spectral, temporal and radiometric resolutions, but also in their coverage and value-added products. Some of the major operational application themes, in which India has extensively used remote sensing data are agriculture, forestry, water resources, land use, urban sprawl, geology, environment, coastal zone, marine resources, snow and glacier, disaster monitoring and mitigation, infrastructure development, etc. The paper reviews RS techniques and applications carried out using both optical and microwave sensors. It also analyses the gap areas and discusses the future perspectives.

12 illus, 4 tables, 47 ref

002214   Lenin Sundar M;Saseetharan M K (Civil Engineering Dep, V.L.B.Janakiammal College & Technology, Coimbatore-641 042, Email: lenin_mk@rediffmail.com) : Ground water quality in Coimbatore, Tamil Ndau along Noyyal river. J envir Sci Engng 2008, 50(3), 187-90.

The ground water quality in Coimbatore city along the Noyyal river during pre-monsoon and post - monsoon seasons in 2005 is discussed. Water samples were collected from 12 wells on either side of the river. The physico - chemical analysis of the collected samples was carried out for the parameters, such as pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH), alkalinity, calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), chloride, sulphates (SO₄^2- ) and sodium (Na⁺). From the study, it is revealed that EC, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ have high concentrations in pre- and post-monsoon seasons. In most of the places, the quality of water was not found suitable for irrigational and industrial activities because of high concentrations of electrical conductivity and total hardness. In general, the values of all the studied parameters were high and above the standards during the post-monsoon season, compared to the pre-monsoon season in 2005.

1 illus, 1 table, 8 ref