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1

A compilation of Research Projects

BACK-TO-LAB PROGRAMME

KERALA STATE COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY& ENVIRONMENT

Women Scientists Division

Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – 695004, India

Website: www.kscste.kerala.gov.in , www.keralawomenscientists.com

DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Government of Kerala

MARCH 2016

http://www.kscste.kerala.gov.in/

2

Sl No Name Page No.

1 Dr. Manju C Nair, Post-Doc Fellow 3

2 Preetha Liz Korah, Research Fellow 5

3 Jesitha K, Research Fellow 7

4 Dr. Thulasi G Pillai, Post-Doc Fellow 9

5 Dr. Sreeja Purushothaman, Post-Doc Fellow 11

6 Hima V M, Research Fellow 13

7 Dr. Sandhya V Satheesh, Post-Doc Fellow 15

8 Sreebha A B, Research Fellow 17

9 Priji Prakashan, Research Fellow 19

10 Nimmy John V, Research Fellow 21

11 Sreeja R, Research Fellow 23

12 Dr. Manju Mary Joseph, Post-Doc Fellow 25

13 Jaya T P, Research Fellow 27

14 Neethi Raj P, Research Fellow 29

15 Divya Balakrishnan, Research Fellow 31

16 Rajani Jacob, Research Fellow 33

17 Aswathy I S, Research Fellow 35

18 Dhanya Balan, Research Fellow 37

19 Prasanna Kumari K, Research Fellow 39

20 Krishna R Prasad, Research Fellow 41

21 Shiny R , Research Fellow 43

22 Lekshmi K Edison, Research Fellow 45

23 Shahina N K, Research Fellow 47

24 Sheethal Sivankutty, Research Fellow 49

25 Priya Bhaskaran, Research Fellow 51

26 Dr. Resmi J, Post-Doc Fellow, Research Fellow 53

INDEX

3

2010-11

BACK TO LAB PROJECT -1

Completed Project -1

Systematic studies on Bryophytes of Northern Western Ghats in Kerala

Dr. MANJU C. NAIR (Post-Doctoral Fellow)

Assistant Professor The Zamorin‟s Guruvayurappan College Kozhikode-14

Email: [email protected]

The bryophytes are a heterogeneous assemblage of non-tracheophytes, generally grouped into

liverworts, hornworts and mosses. The amphibious adaptation and the characteristic life cycle with

less prominent sporophyte generation parasitic on the gametophyte makes the bryophytes a unique

and fascinating group of plants.

Bryophytes play key roles in the ecosystem dynamics such as

nutrient and water recycling, soil protection, preventing

leaching, making suitable microhabits for the germination

and establishment of seedlings and sporelings, providing

food and shelter to many invertebrates etc. They are the

primary form of carbon nutrient sequestration, water

retention, regulation of soil temperature and pH. These have

been used as experimental models and as biomonitors and

bioindicators of heavy metal pollution, in investigations on

the effects of atmospheric deposition of nitrogen and

Sulphur-containing compounds on uplands and preventing soil erosion and nutrient leaching. In

addition to this, they are economically important being the source of food, medicine, preservatives,

energy sources, etc. The evolutionary significance due to the prominence of gametophytes and other

ecological preferences make them an ideal group for detailed studies.

Abstract of the work

The objective of project was to continue the study of the bryoflora (mosses, liverworts and

hornworts) of the Western Ghats in the northern part of Kerala in detail, The study included

Taxonomy and diversity of Acrocarpic mosses of Thusharagiri hills. The study focused on

collection of plant specimen from Northern parts of Western Ghats in Kerala including six

districts such as Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.

Assessment of the problems and prospects of conservations of bryophytes of the area was also

envisaged under the project.

mailto:[email protected]

4

File No 001/WSC-BLS/2010/CSTE

Title of the Project Systematic studies on Bryophytes of Northern Western Ghats

in Kerala

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs. 14,11,000/-, 3 years (from 15/10/2010 to 14/10/2013) (T) No. 155/WSC/2010/KSCSTE, dt. 13.09.2010

Name of the Institution Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute of Plant Sciences ,

Olavanna, Kozhikode.-673014

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. R. Prakashkumar, Director, Malabar Botanical Garden

and Institute of Plant Sciences, Kozhikode.

Date of commencement

of Project

Present status

15/10/ 2010

Project completed on 14/10/2013

Outcome of the Project:

In this study, systematic documentation of the Bryophytes was undertaken from the

Northern Parts of Western Ghats in Kerala. The study is the first of its kind on

Bryophytes of western ghats

The study has resulted in recording of 333 species belonging to 154 genera and 53

families. Of these, mosses comprised 209 species belonging to 108 genera and 31

families. Liverworts comprised 121 species, belonging to 43 genera and 19 families

and hornworts comprised four species belonging to three genera and two families.

One new species, confined to the shola forests, viz., Symphysodontella

madhusoodananii Manju & Rajesh was described. Six species were reported as new to

India. Leucophanes glaucum turned as a new record for the mainland of India. Seven

species were recorded as new to Peninsular India and eight species were reported as

new to Kerala. Odontoschisma and Tuyamaella were two new genus records for

Kerala.

Publications based on the project

International Journals

1. Manju C.N., Leena, T.N., Deepa K.M., K.P. Rajesh & R. Prakashkumar. 2012. Lejeunea

cocoes (Lejeuneaceae; Marchantiophyta) in the Western Ghats of India. Acta Botanica

Hungarica 54: 341-343.

2. Manju, C.N., Prajitha,B. Rejilesh, Anoop, K.P. and R. Prakashkumar. 2012. Trichosteleum

stigmosum (Sematophyllaceae) from Silent Valley National Park, a new record for India.

Taiwania 57: 222-224.

3. Manju, C.N., Rajesh, K.P. and R. Prakashkumar. 2012. On the identity of Riccia fluitans

(Ricciaceae: Marchantiophyta) in India. Acta Biologica Plantarum Agriensis 2: 117-121.

5

2011-12


Completed Project - 2

Mericloning of Phalaenopsis and Vanda Hybrids

PREETA LIZ KORAH (Research Fellow)

AW-17, Jawahar Nagar

Kadavantara

Kochi-682020


ORCHIDS, the most beautiful flowers in God's creation, comprise a unique group of plants.

Taxonomically, they represent the most highly evolved family among monocotyledons with 600-800

genera and 25,000-35,000 species. Of late, South East Asia has developed into a major supplier of

orchid hybrids. In India, orchids form 9% of our flora and are the largest botanical family of higher

plants .

Many species of orchids Viz., Phalaenopsis and Vanda

are renowned for their attractive flowers. These species

are becoming prominent in the homesteads of Kochi

metro both for ornamental and cut flower purpose. The

non-availability of good quality/ true to type planting

material at reasonable price is the most important

limiting factor for its spread and cultivation at large

scale. At present these hybrids are imported from

Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand etc. by middle men and

grown in private nurseries and distributed to consumers

at an exorbitant price. The import cost and the profit

realized by the middle men enhances the sale price of

these hybrids. This limits its fast spread and its large scale cultivation is made unaffordable for the

common man due to high initial investment and hinders the development of orchid industry in

Kerala.


The project aims to study a collection of the most demanded hybrids of Phalaenopsis and Vanda

already selected through homestead survey of orchid growers and protocol development for mass

multiplication of each of the two selected hybrids through mericloning. The project also describes an

efficient micropropagation method for axillary shoot proliferation via PLB (protocorm-like-bodies)

mediated and direct shoot buds in Phalaenopsis and via direct shoot buds in Vanda without callus

formation which ensures the genetic stability of plants.


6

File No 008/WSC-BLS/2011/CSTE

Title of the Project: Mericloning of Phalaenopsis and Vanda Hybrids

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs.14,61,000/-, 3 years (from 02.02.2012 to 01.02.2015)

(P) No. 16 /2012/KSCSTE, dt. 09.01.2012

Name of the Institution Rice Research Station, Kerala Agriculture University,

Vyttila P.O, Ernakulam – 682019

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. Shylaraj. K. S, Professor (Plant Breeding &

Genetics), Kerala Agricultural University, Rice Research

Station, Vyttila- 682019


02/02/2012

Present Status Project completed on 01/02/2015

Outcome of the Project:

Germplasm collection of 30 Phalaenopsis hybrids and 15 Vanda hybrids are

maintained at RRS, Vyttila. Cost effective protocols were standardized by substituting Branded sodium

hypochlorite solution, sucrose and high grade agar. An efficient protocol for in vitro propagation of 3 Phalaenopsis hybrids namely Tying

Shin Zebra, Jinseng Sun and Fuller’s Cheese through direct protocorm-like-body

formation from axenic shoot tip explants has been developed. By repeated bimonthly

subculture of PLB and shoot bud sections on proliferation medium it is possible to

maintain continuous production plantlets which makes the present protocol an

efficient means for commercial proliferation of genetically stable Phalaenopsis and

Vanda hybrids.

CONTRIBUTIONS

1. Germplasm collection of 30 Phalaenopsis hybrids and 15 Vanda hybrids are

maintained at RRS, Vyttila.

2. Cost effective protocols were standardized by substituting

i) Branded sodium hypochlorite solution @ Rs.40/ l. by household commercial bleach

@ Rs.15/ l. for explant sterilization.

ii) Sucrose(Rs.650/kg.) by ordinary sugar (Rs.40/kg.).

iii) High grade agar(Rs.4050/kg.) by industrial agar(Rs.1100/kg.).

3.Two innovations developed were

(i) Vertically cutting shoot tip explant in Phalaenopsis which enhanced rate and earliness

of PLB induction in Phalaenopsis.

(ii) A new media composition , namely, Modified ½ MS was developed which was

effective in producing optimum elongation along with rooting. Conferences

1. Preeta L.K. and Shylaraj K.S. 2015. In vitro induction and proliferation of protocorm-like bodies

(PLBs) from longitudinally cut axenic shoot tips of Phalaenopsis hybrids. Abstracts of National

Seminar on New Frontiers in Agricultural Biotechnology, 3-4 March 2015.

7

2012-13


A Study on the Persistence of Endosulphan and its Degradation by Biotic and

Abiotic Factors.

JESITHA K. (Research Fellow)

„SITHARA‟, Kohinoor, Thenhippalam (PO)

Malappuram – 673635


Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been extensively used in India for agricultural purposes.

Modern agriculture practices reveal an increase in use of pesticides and fertilizers to meet the food

demand of increasing population which results in contamination of the environment. Endosulphan is

widely considered to be a Persistant Organic Pollutant(POP) and the half lives for the combined toxic

residues of endosulphan (alpha endosulphan and beta endosulphan plus endosulphan sulphate ) as

reported by the EPA range from 9 months to 6 years.

Since the organochlorine pesticides are

persistent in the environment, and can

create health problems, study on the

remedial measures become significant.

Unscientific use of endosulphan has

been reported in many places in Kerala,

like Kasargode and Idukki plantation

areas. Although national and

international reports on the rate of

degradation of endosulphan are available, no authentic reports are available on the persistence of

endosulphan in water, soil and sediment on the conditions prevailing in Kerala. The development of a

treatment strategy for the decontamination of the endosulphan affected areas will help to remove any

traces of endosulphan residues in the soil or water of the affected areas.


The objective of the project is to study the persistence of endosulphan in water, soil and sediment

samples of selected areas of Kasaragod district in Kerala. Study on the rate of degradation of

endosulphan using microbial, phytoremediation and chemical methods under controlled conditions

are also included. It is also envisaged to develop a sustainable technology for the removal of

endosulphan from contaminated water and soil using various biotic and abiotic elements.


8

Publications

Jesitha K., Nimisha K.M., Manjusha C.M., Harikumar P.S. 2015. Biodegradation of Endo-

sulphan by Pseudomonas fluorescens. Environmental Processes, 2(1), 225-240.

Jesitha, K., Sreechithra, M., Harikumar, P.S., 2013. Endosulphan Remediation Using

Aquatic and Terrestrial Plant Species. Acta Biologica Indica, 2(2), 388-393.

Jesitha K., Harikumar P.S. 2015. Nano-phytotechnological remediation of endosulfan us-

ing zero valent Iron nanoparticles. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicol-

ogy. Springer International publication (under review).

File No 010/WSD-BLS/2012/CSTE

Title of the Project A Study on the Persistence of Endosulphan and its Degradation by

Biotic and Abiotic Factors.

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs.13,74,910/-, 3 Years & 3 months (24/12/2012 to 31/03/2016)

(P) No.783/2012/KSCSTE, dt. 30.11.2012

Name of the Institution Centre for Water Resources Development and Management,

Kunnamangalam P.O., Kozhikode

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. P. S. Harikumar, Scientist, Water Quality Division

CWRDM


Present Status

24.12.2012

Project completed

Salient outcome of the project (till date): The photocatalytic degradation of endosulphan was found to be efficient when iron doped -

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles were used as photocatalyst. The study indicated that endosulphan

was converted to endosulphan diol which is reported to be a less toxic compound.

Salvinia molesta proved to be effective for the remediation of endosulphan from contaminated

water. Comparing Spinacia oleracea and Solanum lycopersicum, percentage removal of

endosulphan was found to be higher with Solanum lycopersicum.

Nano-phytoremediation, a combined technology was employed to investigate the capability of

combination between phytoremediation and nanoscale zero valent iron (nZVI) for the removal of

endosulphan from contaminated soil. Among the different plant species selected for the study,

Chittaratha (Alpinia calcarata) was found to be very effective for remediation of endosulphan.

The endosulphan-degrading bacterial strain Pseudomonas fluorescens was isolated, and degradation

of endosulphan by freely suspended and calcium-alginate entrapped bacterial cells were

investigated. Based on the study, the pathway for degradation of endosulphan was suggested.

Significance of the outcome in societal context:

The study focused on the degradation of highly persistent toxic organochlorine pesti-

cide such as endosulphan by biotic and abiotic methods, is found to be highly useful

technology for its environmental remediation.

The degradation of endosulphan by nanophytoremediation , which is an effective tech-

nology for the removal of endosulphan is an innovative and potential method for the

removal of chlorinated pesticides from the contaminated soils.

The microbial degradation of organochlorine pesticides by microbial methods was

standardized in the present project. By upgrading the developed method using biore-

actors can be an environmental friendly technology for the degradation of organochlo-

rine pesticides, which will be highly beneficial to the society.

9


Isolation and Characterization of Fungal Endophytes from Certain Medicinal

Plants and RET species in Western ghats and their Therapeutic Potentials.

THULASI G. PILLAI (Post-doctoral Fellow)

2/23, Vrindhavan, Happy Nagar Kozhukkully P.O.,Thrissur - 680751 Email: [email protected]

Endophytes are organisms that spend their whole life or part of life cycle in the symplast or apoplast

region of healthy plant tissues without causing any disease or clinical symptoms. These organisms

include bacteria, fungi, algae and actinomycetes. Some fungal endophytes are able to make some

bioactive compounds as the host plants itself. Endophytes have major influences on plant distribution,

ecology, physiology and biochemistry.

Practical applications of endophytes include potential

biocontrol agents, sources of novel metabolites for

medicine, plant protection and industrial uses and as

research model systems for investigations of host parasite

interactions and evolution in natural systems. Endophytes

of medicinal plants and trees and their potential use are a

most promising resource which awaits exploration.

The Western Ghats is very rich in its medicinal plant

wealth. The forests and hills of this region is a treasure

house of about 700 medicinal plants of which some are

used in traditional and folk medicine.

Abstract of the work:

Study is carried out to isolate and identify true endophytic fungi from 2 medinal plants, Aerva lanata

and Emelia Sonchifolia and an RET species, Cynometra travencorica. The study also envisages

isolation and characterisation of secondary metabolites from the true endophytic fungi and exploring

their cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, anticancer and antidiabetic properties. Study was conducted in

Southern, Central and Northern parts of Kerala for medicinal plants and from four different forest

areas of South Western Ghats for RET. Sampling was done in three different seasons, pre-monsoon,

monsoon and post-monsoon. One hundred and thirteen cultures were obtained from the study. Two

True endophytes were screened from RET by partial sequencing of genomic DNA and the cultures

were identified as Colletotrichum gloeosporoides and Diaporthe eres.


10


Title of the Project: Isolation and Characterization of Fungal Endophytes from

Certain Medicinal Plants and RET species in Western ghats

and their Therapeutic Potentials.

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs.14,42,000/-, 3 Years & 3 months (30/10/2012 to

29/01/2016) (P) No.702 /2012/KSCSTE, dt. 30.10.2012

Name of the Institution Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi Post, Thrissur

District Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. R. Jayaraj, Scientist B, Division of Forest Ecology and

Biodiversity Conservation, KFRI


of Project

Present status

30.10.2012

Completed

Salient outcome of the project Developed method for isolation of true endophytic fungi from plants

Isolated 113 fungal endophytic cultures

Developed and standardized method for Isolation and characterization of secondary

metabolites from true endophytic fungi

The isolated compounds are found to have cytotoxic properties

Anticancer activity of the secondary metabolites isolated from the true

endophyticfungi.


Development of anticancer drugs

Protection of precious trees and herbs by substituting them with the fungal

endophytes in them for production of medicinal compounds

Standardisation of methodology for the isolation of endophytes and therapeutic

compounds from them.


1. Thulasi G.Pillai and R.Jayaraj.2015. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, a true endophyte of the

endangered tree, Cynometra travancorica in the Western Ghats”. Journal of Plant Pathology

and Microbiology 6:267.

2. Thulasi G. Pillai. 2014. Genomic analysis of Colletotrichum gloseosporiodes, endophytic

fungi, Lifestyle transition in host. J. of Proteins and proteomics. 5(3). 142.

3. Thulasi G.Pillai and R.Jayaraj. 2015. Identification of Endophytic Fungi/Opportunistic

Pathogen from the Perennial Herb of Amaranthaceae Family. J. Plant Physiology and Pathology

(In Press).

Other Achievements

Attended 2 months training programme at IIT Madras in cell culture technique.

Received Cash award and citation for Best paper presented at BARC, in 2013 by Environmental

Mutagen Society of India

11


Mitochondria specific anti-oxidant: Target for the reversal of metabolic

remodeling and prevention of cardiac hypertrophy

Dr. SREEJA PURUSHOTHAMAN (Post-doctoral Fellow)

Sudarsana, MLR 63(B) Mangalam Lane Sasthamangalam Thiruvananthapuram Email:

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an intermediate step in the progression of hypertension to

cardiac failure. The prevention of LVH is expected to improve prognosis and retard the advancement

to cardiac failure. Therapeutic strategies designed to correct the mediators of cardiac remodeling is

therefore expected to prevent the initiation and progression of hypertrophy. Mitochondrial structural

damage and dysfunction is well documented in heart failure, including an increase in mitochondrial

oxidative damage, impairment of mitochondrial respiration and disturbance of mitochondrial substrate

utilization.

Mitochondria are major site of generation of reactive oxygen

species (ROS) as a by-product of oxidative phosphorylation.

Reduction of oxidative stress by targeting antioxidants to

mitochondria is expected to be a good therapeutic target for

the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy. This can be achieved

through the use of a mitochondria-targeted anti oxidants. A

shift in cardiac energy metabolism from fatty acid, to

glucose was observed in cardiac hypertrophy which may

lead to energy starvation in the due course.


The study is aimed to examine whether attenuation of mitochondrial oxidative stress can improve

cardiac energy status and prevent hypertrophy in H9C2 cell line and compare the efficacy of

mitoprotective and generalized antioxidant in prevention of cardiac hypertrophy. The study of in vitro

and in vivo role of NFkB –PGC 1α interaction in mediating metabolic remodeling is also included.

The study also envisages cardiac response to mitoprotective antioxidant in metabolically adapted rat to

examine whether the treatment can prevent metabolic remodeling and hypertrophy in spontaneously

hypertensive rats.

12


Title of the Project Mitochondria Specific anti-oxidant: Target for the reversal of

metabolic remodeling and Prevention of Cardiac Hypertrophy

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs. 14,00,000/-, 3 Years (from 18.12.2012 to 15.12.2016)

(1 year maternity leave from 23/08/ 2014 to 20/08/2015)

(P) No. 854 /2012/KSCSTE dt. 10/12/2012 Name of the Institution Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute for Medical Science &

Technology, Trivandrum-695011

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. R. Renuka Nair, Scientist G, Division of Cellular and

Molecular Cardiology, SCTIMST, Thiruvananthapuram


18.12.2012

Present Status 3rd

year of implementation of the work is in progress

Salient outcome of the project (till date):

An inverse relationship was observed between stress markers and metabolic enzyme.

Euk 134 is a mitoprotective antioxidant with antihypertrophic effect and Euk 134

treatment has significantly reduced stress markers and reversed down regulation of

metabolic enzyme.

Hypertrophy is associated with increased oxidative stress and down regulation of

enzymes in fatty acid metabolism.

mitoprotective antioxidant treatment was effective in preventing the metabolic down

regulation associated with hypertrophy.

Work to be done:

Examine the cardiac response to mitoprotective antioxidant in metabolically adapted

spontaneously hypertensive rat to study whether the treatment can reverse metabolic

remodeling.

Elucidate the molecular mechanism of metabolic remodeling by studying NFkB-

PGC1α interaction.


Prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy is rapidly increasing in Kerala

Available therapeutic strategies are not effective in promoting repair of the damaged

tissue, but only help in the maintenance of cardiac function

Development of therapeutic strategies that prevent further deterioration and promote

reverse remodeling is warranted.

My study proposes a complementary mechanism that target mitochondrial oxidative

stress for reducing cardiac damage and improve myocardial energy status

Mitochondria targeted anti oxidant is effective in the prevention and regression of

hypertrophy, it can be used as a therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiac

hypertrophy.

13

BACK TO LAB PROJECT – 6

Enhancing bio-efficacy of trichoderma spp. for the management of soil borne

fungal pathogens

HIMA V. M. (Research fellow)

Thavalakulangara House S. N. Nagar, Irinjalakuda (P.O) Thrissur - 680125 Email: [email protected]

Biological control is an important area of focus in the discipline of plant pathology because of the

development of new diseases and the shifting pattern of management and regulation. Trichoderma spp

are well known biocontrol agents, which are active against many soil borne pathogens. In addition to

the ability of Trichoderma spp. to attack or inhibit the growth of plant pathogens directly, recent

discoveries indicate that they can also induce systemic and localised resistance to plant pathogens.

Moreover, certain strains also have substantial influence on plant growth and development.

For becoming an important component of plant

disease management system, it must be effective and

reliable as competitive fungicides. For this reason

Trichoderma spp must be manipulated and improved

for their effective use in the control of plant diseases.

Among the wide variety of techniques used in the

improvement of biocontrol agents, protoplast fusion

seems to be an efficient way to induce genetic

recombination in whole genome even between

incompatible strains. Also this technique has higher

probability to obtain recombinants, which allows testing a large number of recombinants over short

periods.


The aim of this study is to evaluate the antagonistic efficiency of native and induced strains of

Trichoderma spp. for the management of soil borne fungal pathogens and to study the induced

systemic resistance in plants. The important characters considered for selecting the native and induced

strains of Trichoderma spp. are the biocontrol efficiency and plant growth improvement. The study

envisages isolation of native Trichoderma spp. from northern, central and southern zones of Kerala

and in vitro evaluation of their antagonistic potential against soil borne fungal pathogens. The study

also involve pot culture experiment and field experiment for the evaluation of biocontrol efficiency

and plant growth improvement of selected mutants and fusants


14


Title of the Project Enhancing bio-efficacy of trichoderma spp. for the

management of soil borne fungal pathogens

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs. 14,56,000/-, 3 years (from 10.05.2013 to 09.05.2016)

(P) No. 444/2013/KSCSTE dt. 27/03/2013

Name of the Institution Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. S. Beena, Professor, Department of Plant Pathology,

College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University,

Date of commencement 10.05.2013

Present Status 3rd

year of implementation of the work is in progress.


A characteristic vinegar smell was observed in the culture of Tr 9 taken as parent

for the strain improvement. This is matching with the literature indicating the

characteristic smell of T. erinaceum. The same isolate is found to be sporulate

faster in summer compared to rainy season. Validated the protocol for induction of mutation and protoplasmic fusion of

Trichoderma spp. Validated the protocol for isolation of DNA and amplification of ITS region of

DNA of Trichoderma spp.

Work to be done:

In vitro screening of mutants and protoplast fusants against the soil borne fungal

pathogens. Characterization of the selected mutants and fusants. Pot culture experiment for the evaluation of biocontrol efficiency and plant growth

improvement of selected mutants and fusants. Studies on induced systemic resistance. Field experiment for the evaluation of biocontrol efficiency and pant growth

improvement of selected mutants and fusants.


Development of a potential fungal bio agent

That will be efficient for the management of soil borne pathogens of many crops of

Kerala


Hima, V.M. and Beena, S. 2013. Hypocrea koningii – Teleomorph of Trichoderma koningii, first re-

port from India. J. Mycol. Plant Pathol. 43 (2): 257

Hima, V.M. and Beena, S. 2014. Cultural and antagonistic variability among indigenous isolates of

Trichoderma spp. from Kerala [abstract]. In: Abstracts, 26 Kerala Science Congress, 28-31, January,

2014, Wayanad. Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment, Trivandrum. p.12.

15


Synthesis of diphenolic bis-2-aminothiazoles as novel antioxidants.

Dr. SANDHYA V. SATHEESH (Post-doctoral Fellow)

Vazhakottathil House, Parayakadavu, Amrithapuri P.O. Karunagapally Kollam - 690525 Email: [email protected]

Generation and further reactions of free radicals within biological systems are involved in cellular

damage. Such damages lead to several life threatening diseases in humans such as cancer, respiratory

tract disorders, rheumatic arthritis, cataract, asthma, heart diseases, stroke, atherosclerosis and

diabetics. The systemic or endogenous antioxidants defenses of the body are usually capable of

meeting the antioxidant damage. However, under conditions of oxidative stress, these natural defenses

may not cope thereby requiring external supplementation of anti oxidants.

This imbalance suggests that the design of newer

antioxidants is a worthwhile research pursuit. The

newer antioxidant molecular design could incorporate

the concept of synergy in that two antioxidant

molecules that are individually active could be

covalently coupled to form a hybrid. Such a hybrid

molecule could be expected to show improved

antioxidant properties. This concept has been used in

the design of bioactive molecules such as anticancer

compounds in which two known anticancer compounds have been coupled to generate a hybrid.


Phenols, especially those in which the hydroxyl groups are

flanked by bulky alkyl groups have been used as well

established antioxidants. Typical examples include

butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated

hydroxytoluene (BHT) in which the phenolic hydroxyl

group is shielded by one or two t-butyl groups. These two

have been recognized as permitted food additives. Aminothiazoles are isosteric with phenols, but have

the advantage that these lack the acidity of phenols. The present project envisages the union of these

two antioxidant molecules to fashion a hybrid system comprising of a covalently united t-

butylphenolic unit appended to an aminothiazole unit.

The aim of this project is designing of a synthetic path to highly functionalized antioxidant bisphenoli-

2-aminothiazoles such as 4,4’-phenylene-bis which has both phenol and aminothiazole units

incorporated in the final structure and the evaluation of the antioxidant activity of these novel hybrid

molecules. Thus a set of hybrid molecules, consisting of these two individual molecular units would be

expected to possess improved antioxidant activity than the individual components.


16


Title of the Project : Synthesis of diphenolic bis-2-aminothiazoles as novel

antioxidants.

Amount Sanctioned & :

Period

Rs. 14,16,000/-, 3 Years (from 16.04.2013 to 15.04.2016) (P) No. 446/2013/KSCSTE dt. 27/03/2013

Name of the Institution : Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala,

Trivandrum

Name & Address of :

Scientist Mentor

Dr. T.S. Anirudhan, Professor and Head,

Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala

Date of commencement: 16.04.2013

Present Status :

3rd

year implementation of the work is in progress.


Precursor 3,5 –di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyacetophenone was synthesized and purified. Precursor, α-Bromo-3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyacetophenone was synthesized and

purified. Several terephthaloyl-bis thioureas were synthesized.

Reaction condition for the thiazole synthesis was established.

Several 4,4’- phenylene-bis’5-(3,5-di-tbutyl-4-hydroxybenzoyl)-2-aminothiazole]

were synthesized and purification are in progress.

Work to be done:

The establishment of the structure of 4,4’- phenylene-bis’5-(3,5-di-tbutyl-4-

hydroxybenzoyl)-2-aminothiazole] by spectral methods such as IR, 1H NMR,

13C

NMR and mass spectra. The antioxidant assays such as DPPH assay, alkaline DMSO assay, β- carotene

bleaching assay and FRAP assay will be carried out.

Appropriate reference and standard compounds will also be assayed.


The study will involve the design and development of a new class of antioxidant

molecular entities. Thiazoles, especially aminothiazoles, are commonly reported to

have a wide range of therapeutic properties like antioxidative, anti-tubucular,

anesthetic, antimicrobial, antitumor, antiviral and antipyretic. Supplemental

antioxidants are gaining popular worldwide as life extension “anti-aging supplements”

and life extension “nutritional supplements”. Thus, research on newly designed

antioxidant molecule is warranted.

17


Development of Holographic Lens to use in conjunction with solar cells.

SREEBHA A.B. (Research Fellow)

Naraniyat Illam Farook College P.O. Feroke, Calicut – 673632 Email: [email protected]

Holographic Lens (Holo Lens) is basically an optical element made by holographic methods. It can be

used as an alternative to conventional Lens. Compared to conventional optical elements, Holographic

elements are thin and can be inexpensive in mass production. They are wavelength sensitive and can

perform multiple functions simultaneously. A single Holo Lens can split the solar spectrum and

concentrate the radiation of desired wavelength and diffract away the heat radiation.

The main limitation of solar power generation now

is the high cost of photovoltaics. One approach to

overcome this is to concentrate light from the sun

using optical components, thereby reducing the

total area of photovoltaics. But traditional

concentrators need to mechanically track the sun so

as to face the sun directly. They are complicated,

bulky and unattractive. They heat up the solar cells,

and require a cooling system. Even though the

concentrating power of Holographic Optical

components is weak compared to conventional ones, it has several advantages. Holographic elements

can be made to deviate heat-generating frequencies away from the cells and hence cooling system can

be avoided. Also, holograms in a concentrator can be designed to focus light from different angles to

avoid tracking the sun.


The project envisages the development of good Holographic Lens and use the same in conjunction

with solar cells, facilitating creation of high yielding solar modules. The Holo Lens concentrates and

couples solar radiation on to the solar cell. Successful development of the proposed work will be

breakthrough advancement towards green and sustainable energy. The project envisages identification

of suitable materials for recording holographic lens and fabrication of a holographic lens in the

material. Study the performance and property variations of holographic lens in heavy sun light are also

included in the study. The study also envisages the coupling of holographic lens with solar cells and

enhancement of efficiency.


18


Title of the Project: Development of Holographic Lens to use in conjunction with

solar cells.

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs. 15,00,000/-, 3 years (from 25.04.2013 to 24.04.2016) (P) No. 445 /2013/KSCSTE dt. 27/03/2013

Name of the Institution Department of Optoelectronics, University of Kerala,

Thiruvananthapuram

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. V.P. Mahadevan Pillai, Professor & Head, Department of

Optoelectronics, University of Kerala


Present Status 3rd



Composition and recording geometry of red sensitive photopolymer was optimized.

The addition of cross linker to this material increased the diffraction efficiency and

stability of the recording material. Also, the addition of cross linker reduced the

exposure energy needed to record efficient holograms.

A comparison of the fabricated polymer with a commercial grade photopolymer was

also done.

A green sensitive photopolymer material for holography is fabricated with shelf life

of less than one month.

Work to be done:

The optimization of the chemistry and geometry for good holographic elements in

green sensitive photopolymer and to improve the life of the materials.

To write efficient lenses in the material and club it with good organic solar cells and

study the enhancement in the efficiency.

To make good holographic lenses in different photopolymers and silver halides and

to use it in a holographic solar concentrator module for domestic purposes.


The technology replaces conventional bulky concentrators with sleek flat holographic

panels to concentrate light on to solar cells which consecutively will reduce the cost

of the intact solar module.

Solar holograms can either be installed on rooftops or can be incorporated into

windows and glass doors.

Solar holograms can even work well in low irradiation (with no sun tracking) to get

the maximum power output from solar cells without regard to seasonal or diurnal

variations and the successful development of the proposed system will be a

breakthrough advancement towards green and sustainable energy.


1. A.B. Sreebha, V.P. Mahadevan Pillai, P.T. Ajith Kumar. Springer Proceedings Phys. 2014. Volume

No.166, Book title: Advances in Optical Science and Engineering, ISBN: 978-81-322-2366.

19


Production and characterization of industrially significant biomolecules from

Candida tropicalis

PRIJI PRAKASAN (Research fellow)

Research scholar Enzyme Technology laboratory Biotechnology Division, Department of Botany University of Calicut, Malappuram - 673 635 E-mail: [email protected]

Candida tropicalis is a typical inhabitant of the human body, which is not normally considered to be a

health issue. However, a colony of C. tropicalis can experience overgrowth under some conditions,

causing an infection known as candidiasis. It has been noticed that in tropical countries like India, C.

tropicalis isolates are more prevalent in clinical materials like blood, urine and sputum. Humans are

the natural but not the exclusive habitat of C. tropicalis. It has been isolated from animal sources like

intestinal contents of marine mammals, birds, bovine, porcine, canine, mice and equine species, abo-

masums of cattle and bovine milk. However, inhabitance of Candida spp. (albicans, tropicalis, krusei,

rugosa, parapsilosis) and Trichosporon (cutaneum, sericeum) in the gut of ruminants, especially cow

and sheep has been reported. Apart from the clinical significance, only a few studies have been report-

ed on the exploration of C. tropicalis as a microbial source for the production of industrially signifi-

cant biomolecules like biosurfactants and polyhydroxy alkonates (PHAs).


This study deals with the production, isolation and molecular characteri-

zation of these biomolecules employing thin layer chromatography

(TLC), GC, GC-MS, LC, LC-MS, FTIR, NMR etc coupled with the op-

timization of culture conditions by Response Surface Methodology. The

candidate genes are cloned in other organisms to enhance production.

Relevance of this study resides in the facts that the dual production of bi-

osurfactant and PHAs by C. tropicalis is still an untapped area of re-

search. Moreover, exploration of yeast for the production of industrially

significant biomolecules facilitates further enhancement of production by genetic manipulations.

The aim of the study involves the isolation, identification and molecular characterization of Candida

tropicalis from the rumen of Malabari goat. Then the ability of the culture to produce biosurfactant

and biopolymers was explored by various methods. This study also deals with the production, isolation

and molecular characterization of these biomolecules employing thin layer chromatography (TLC),

GC, GC-MS, LC, LC-MS, FTIR, NMR etc coupled with the optimization of culture conditions by

Response Surface Methodology (RSM).


20


Title of the Project: Production and characterization of industrially significant

biomolecules from Candida tropicalis

Amount Sanctioned & Period Rs. 15,97,000/-, 3 Years (from 01.04.2013 to

31.03.2016) (P) No. 447/2013/KSCSTE, dt. 27/03/2013

Name of the Institution Enzyme Technology Laboratory, Biotechnology

Division, Department of Botany,University of Calicut,

Kerala – 673 635

Name & Address of Scientist Mentor Dr. Sailas Benjamin, Associate Professor, Department of

Botany, University of Calicut


Present Status 3rd

year of implementation of the work is in progress.


Designed suitable media for the production of biosurfactant and Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).

Statistically optimized the culture parameters for the production of biosurfactant and PHB.

Purification and molecular characterization of biosurfactant and PHB from the potent strain was

carried out.

Production of PHB and biosurfactant were optimized employing RSM.

Work to be done:

Physico-chemical characterization of the biosurfactant

Biological activities of the biosurfactant.


Kerala, being rich with various vegetable oils and oil wastes, use of oils for the production of

industrially significant biomolecules will boost our oil and oil based industries.

It opens an unexplored area of utilizing our resources in an economic way. Incorporation of and

oil wastes in the industrial production of variable biologicals make them challenging targets for

future R&D activities.

In addition, legal aspects such as stricter regulations concerning environmental pollution by

industrial activities and health regulations will also strongly influence the chances of these

biomolecules replacing their chemical counterparts.


1. Priji, P., Unni, K.N., Sajith, S. and Sailas Benjamin (2013). Candida tropicalis BPU1, a novel

isolate from the rumen of the Malabari goat is a dual producer of biosurfactant and

polyhydroxybutyrate. Yeast. 30 (3): 103-110. 2. Priji, P., Unni, K.N., Sajith, S., Binod, P., Sailas Benjamin (2015) Production, optimization and

partial purification of lipase from Pseudomonas sp. strain BUP6, a novel bacterium characterized

from Malabari goat. Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, 62(1), 71-78. 3. Priji P., Sajith S., Sreedevi S., Unni K.N., Kumar S., Sailas Benjamin (2015). Candida tropicalis

BPUI produces polyhydroxybutyrates on raw starchy substrates. Starch (under review).

21

2013-14


Flexible Nanomaterial Doped Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) Devices

for Switchable Window Applications

NIMMY JOHN V. (Research Fellow)

Thuruthel House Eramalloor P.O Alapuzha – 688537 Email: [email protected]

It has been observed that conventional cathode ray tubes (CRT) are replaced with low power consum-

ing, aesthetically admitted liquid crystal display (LCD) devices. Lot of research have been conducted

to further to reduce power consumption of the LCD systems. Development of these devices with im-

proved power efficiency (low switching voltage) can further reduce the power issues by which the

socio-economic situation can be improved. Addition of ferroelectric nanomaterials to liquid crystals have considerable effect in the performance

of the liquid crystal display (LCD) devices. Ferroelectric nanomaterials present in the liquid crystal

medium may get polarized during the operation of the LCD devices. This residual polarization can

reduce the switching voltage of the device considerably.


First part of the project mainly focuses on effect of

different nanoparticle and its different concentra-

tion on the switching voltage and performance of

the device. In the second part the flexible Polymer

dispersed liquid crystal devices with ferroelectric

nanomaterials doped devices were fabricated and

tested for the performance. Morphology of the

polymer dispersed liquid crystal with varying

liquid crystal composition will be studied using

scanning electron microscopy and atomic force

microscopy grain analysis. Effect of different

liquid crystal concentration of switching voltage

characteristics will be investigated using Mach–

Zehnder interferometer.

The present study aims at the optimization of

liquid crystal concentration in Polydime-

thylsiloxanes (PDMS) for the fabrication of Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) cells. This

study will contribute to the developments in the field of liquid crystal devices, which find wide appli-

cations in consumer electronics.


22

. File No 015/WSD-BLS/2012/CSTE

Title of the Project Flexible Nanomaterial Doped Polymer Dispersed Liquid

Crystal (PDLC) Devices for Switchable Window

Applications

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs. 15,96,000/-, 3 Years (from 01.10.2013 to 30.09.2016)

(P) No. 492 /2013/KSCSTE,dt.05/04/2013

Name of the Institution School of Nano Science and Technology, National

Institute of Technology, Calicut

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. N. Sandhyarani, Associate Professor, School of Nano

Science and Technology, National Institute of

Technology


of the project

01-10-2013

Present Status 3rd

year implementation of the work is in progress


The addition of nanoparticle reduces the switching voltage of the Polymer

Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) device considerably.

The electro-optical studies of ZnO nanoparticle doped PDLC cell have been done

using a He-Ne laser followed by Matlab calculations.

Morphology of the ZnO nanoparticles are investigated using a field emission

scanning electron microscope.

Work to be done:

Effect of ferroelectric and metal nanoparticles in the switching behavior of PDLC

cells. Flex crack resistance study of the electrodes. Electro-optical characterization of flexible switchable windows using the electro

optical device. The device performance on conformable and different flex angle.


Development of nanomaterial doped PDLC devices will improve power efficiency

of display devices and further reduce the power issues by which the socio-economic

situation can be improved. .

PDLC devices with flexibility can find applications in rollable and switchable

window devices.

This hybrid PDLC systems takes up small space with improved performance and

their characteristics can definitely uplift the knowledge in the science and

technology of display devices.

23


Evolution of Karamana River Basin and its Implications on Hydrogeology: A

Geomatics approach using Morphometric Analysis

SREEJA R. (Research Fellow)

Puthupparampil Pariyaram P.O. Kottayam - 686021

Email: [email protected] , [email protected]

Concern for water is growing nowadays and the importance of water for supporting life is gaining

recognition due the complexities of interactions within and between ecosystems. The demand for

water is increasing exponentially due to population explosion, recurring drought, agricultural,

industrial and mining activities. Due to over exploitation of ground water, the ground water levels in

many areas show a declining trend, which in turn tends to increase both the investment cost and the

operational cost. This problem can be alleviated to some extent by artificially recharging the potential

aquifers and efficient harvesting of the rainwater. This requires an understanding of the

geomorphology, geology and hydrogeology of the area.

In this context, as a tool, morphometric analysis of

the drainage basin will give insights on the terrain,

tectonic history, lineaments and finally to the

hydrogeological setup. Today geomatics emerges

as a platform to collect, store, analyse, present and

retrieve spatial data in any scale. Remote sensing

and GIS are playing a rapidly increasing role in the

field of hydrology and water resources development


In the present study, the Karamana river basin is selected as the study area. This basin caters a major

part of the water demand of Thiruvananthapuram, the Capital of Kerala. The Karamana river with a

drainage area of 702 Km2 originates from Chemmunji mottai, a peak in the Western Ghats mountain

ranges at an elevation of 1717 m aMSL (above Mean Sea Level).. The length of main stream is 68

km and main tributaries of the river are Thodayar, Attayar, Kaviyar, Chittar, Attingal thodu, Kottur

thodu and Killiyar. As per Milliman and Syvittski (1992) Karamana river falls within the small

mountainous river category.

The present study envisages detailed investigation using Geomatics, through the integration of

geomorphology, geology, hydrogeology is aimed to bring out all the related parameters which will be

useful for the planning, development, conservation and management of the water resources in

Karamana river basin.



24

File No No.029/WSD-BLS/2013/CSTE

Title of the Project Evolution of Karamana River Basin and its

Implications on Hydrogeology: A Geomatics

approach using Morphometric Analysis Amount Sanctioned & Period Rs 15,96,000/-, 3 years (from 23/12/2013 to

22/12/2016)

(P) No.1016/2013/KSCSTE dt. 23/10/2013

Name of Institution School of Environmental Sciences, M G

University, Kottayam

Name & Address of Scientist

Mentor

Dr. Mahesh Mohan, Assistant Professor, School of

Environmental Sciences, M.G. University

Date of commencement of project 23/12/2013

Present Status 3rd

year of implementation of the work is in

progress Salient outcome of the project (till date):

Identified a gravel layer just above laterite on the river bank near Aryanad, demands

detailed studies, indicating occurrence of Late Quaternary sediments in the study area.

A hand operable coring device for soft formations has been designed and tested.

Drainage map, slope map and land use map were prepared.

Work to be done:

Geomorphological analysis, Remote Sensing and GIS analysis


Thematic maps such as drainage, geology, hydrogeomorphology, hydrogeology,

lineaments, water table, groundwater potential, etc are being prepared on a large scale

(1:50000), so that the micro level data can also be incorporated. Thus the maps can be

used even in the micro level planning process which would be very helpful for local to

higher-level administrative processes.

The status of quality and spatial availability of water resources in the Karamana River

Basin that has been reported in this work and the water resources management strategies

evolved in this study can enable the framing of policies that stress on wise use of water in

the basin.

Strategies for artificial groundwater recharge and water conservation based on the spatial

and temporal availability/demand evolved during the study can be implemented by local

bodies to increase the water availability in the basin.


1. Sreeja R., Arun P.R., Mahesh Mohan and Pradeepkumar A.P. (2015) Groundwater Potential

of a Fastly Urbanizing Watershed in Kerala, India: A Geospatial Approach. International

Journal of Engineering Research, Volume No.4, Issue No.10, pp : 578-581, ISSN: 2347-5013. 2. Sreeja R., Arun P.R. and Pradeep Kumar A.P. (2015) Groundwater Potential of Killiyar

Watershed, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: A geospatial Approach. Proceedings of the 27th

Kerala Science Congress, scheduled to be held at Alleppy during 27-30 Jan 2015. 3. Sreeja R., Arun P.R., Mahesh Mohan and Pradeepkumar A.P. (2015) Groundwater Potential

of a Fastly Urbanizing Watershed in Kerala, India: A Geospatial Approach. International

Journal of Engineering Research, Volume No.4, Issue No.10, pp: 578-581, ISSN: 2347-5013.

25


Assessment of Biodiesel Application Potential of Microalgae collected from the

Backwaters of Kerala

Dr. MANJU MARY JOSEPH (Post-doctoral fellow)

Kanniplamthadathil house Vadavucode P.O. Ernakulam -682310. Email: [email protected]

Biodiesel production from microalgae have recently received a lot of attention because of the

escalating price of petroleum, depleting natural resources and more significantly, the emerging

concern about global warming that is associated with burning fossil fuels. While the lipid content of

the algae has the largest influence on the ultimate cost of the produced biofuel, the fuel characteristics

such as ignition quality, cold-flow properties, and oxidative stability are determined by the structure of

the fatty acids. Producing unpalatable secondary metabolites such as polysaccharides, polyphenols,

terpenoids, free fatty acids is one of the strategies to increase their survival by reducing the chance of

being grazed upon. Although more energy per acre can potentially be produced from microalgae in

comparison to land plants, the current cost for microalgal biomass production is much higher than

from other energy crops. Hence finding promising microalgae for commercial cultivation is multi-

facetted and challenging; necessitating further research by combining the fatty acid profile and the

survival potential for cheap and sustainable biodiesel production.


The main objective of the present work is to isolate a few locally

available algal species that could be economically cultured to have

the potential to serve as a future biofuel.

Microalgae from different salinity gradients of Cochin estuary will be

collected and cultured by replicating the natural environmental con-

ditions and stress conditions and their survival potential will be ex-

amined by analysing polysaccharides, polyphenols, terpenoids and

free fatty acids etc. This would eventually help to isolate a few locally

available algal species that could be economically cultured to have the

potential to serve as a future biofuel.

Extraction of algal oil from the collected algae and analysis of total

lipids, fatty acid profile and glycerol is also included in the study.


26


Title of the Project Assessment of Biodiesel Application Potential of Microalgae

collected from the Backwaters of Kerala

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs.13,96,000/-, 3 years (from 26/10/2013 to 25/10/2013)

(P) No. 1014/2013/KSCSTE dt. 23/10/2013

Name of Institution Department of Chemical Oceanography, School of Marine

Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. S. Muraleedharan Nair, Professor, Department of

Chemical Oceanography, SMS,, CUSAT


of Project

Present Status

26/10/2013

3rd

year of implementation is in progress


Compiling the Growth parameters, FAME profile and Biodiesel fuel properties, it

could be concluded that Navicula sp, Thalassiosira sp. and Chaetoceros sp. are the best

diatom strains among the five analysed, whereas Skeletonema sp. and Nitzhia sp. were

found to be inferior for biodiesel production.

Work to be done:

To complete the genus and species level identification of microalgae collected from

different regions of Cochin Backwaters, using standard keys and DNA profiling.

To complete the chemical analysis of the isolated strains of microalgae (FAME and

CJNS nalysis).

From the chemical and statistical evaluation, establish locally available potent algal

strain for biodiesel production.

To quantify glycerol, the by-product of transesterification.


Biodiesel production from microalgae is highly significant because of the fluctuating

price of petroleum, depleting natural resources and more importantly, the emerging

concern about global warming that is associated with burning of fossil fuels.

The study will give preliminary but most important information about locally dominant

microalgal strains with high biomass productivity, the desired lipid content and the

suitable fatty acid profile that could be commercially tapped for biodiesel production.

The selection of an energy and cost-efficient production model could play a very

important role in achieving competitive biodiesel production.


1. Evaluation of Biodiesel Production Potential of Five Diatom Strains using Fatty acid Methyl

Ester Profiles and Multi-criteria Decision Analysis. Algal Research (Elsevier)(Communicated) 2. Algal feedstock selection for biodiesel production based on fatty acid profiling: A Review.

Current Science India (Communicated)

27


Studies on multi-component transparent conducting oxide thin films for device

applications

JAYA T.P. (Research Fellow)

Yamuna P.O. Marykunnu Calicut- 673 012 Email: [email protected]

Transparent Conducting Diodes (TCO)s form a very important group in the materials science world

due to their immense potential applications, such as in flat panel displays, thin film transistors,

architectural windows, etc. TCOs form the most important component of all kinds of photovoltaic

devices and new generation opto-electronic devices. The applications of TCOs are in the form of

transparent contact in new generation electronic devices such as LCD, OLEDs , optical arrays , flat

panel displays, automobile windows , defroster widows of refrigerators and thin film transistors for

invisible electronics. Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) is used as the most common commercial TCO

component in these systems, but Indium is very costly and the availability of Indium is going to

exhaust in the near future. Alternative materials have to be discovered to replace Indium.


The main objective of this work is to find novel TCO materials as a replacement for Indium tin oxide

(ITO), currently used for almost 90% of TCO applications .

The project proposes to fabricate thin films of multi-component

transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) from high purity target

materials synthesised by solid state reaction technique. The

multicomponent target materials for thin film deposition are

synthesised by utilising the non-stoichiometry associated with

basic compounds in TCO phase space. The applications of basic

oxides in TCO phase space are limited due to the scarcity of

materials that can simultaneously exhibit transparency and

conductivity. It is possible to explore new compounds by

varying the stoichiometry and by introducing impurity

in small scale to the existing crystal structure of basic TCO host

materials.


28


Title of the Project Studies on multi-component transparent conducting oxide thin

films for device applications

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs 15,96,000/-, 3 years (from 12/12/2013 to 11/12/2016)

(P) No.1015/2013/KSCSTE dt. 23/10/2013

Name of Institution Department of Physics, University of Calicut, Calicut University

P.O, Thenhipalam, Malappuram

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. P.P Pradyumnan, Associate Professor, Department of

Physics, University of Calicut


of project

Present status

12/12/2013

3rd


Salient outcome of the project

(till date):

Synthesis of Indium tin oxide, Aluminium zinc oxide, titanium oxides via hydrothermal

method and solid state reaction method.

Fabrication of these powders into thin film form by RF magnetron sputtering.

Characterisation of bulk powders and thin films for various applications.

Fabrication of transparent p-n heterojunctions.

Work to be done:

The thin films will be used in devices such as flat panel displays, solar cells etc.


Transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) comprise a class of materials in which one

property, namely conductivity, is strongly coupled to a second property, namely, optical

transparency. This study leads to understand the fundamental aspect of carrier generation in metal

oxide complex compounds and how to control the physical property of such materials.

Fabrication of active windows for achieving this duality in a single window are under

consideration. Solar cell, flat-panel display, and solid-state lighting areas also require

development of improved TCO materials with increased performance and resistance to

changes in optoelectronic properties. In addition to these, the challenge of building a

material that is both conducting and transparent will drive the scientific curiosity to

further develop novel and simpler methods of synthesis.


1. Jaya. T.P, Divya N.K, P.P.Pradyumnan. Effect of surfactants on the morphological and optical

properties of ZTO ceramics Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 2-4 (2014) 442- 444,

ISSN 2279 – 0381.

2. Jaya T P, Divya N K, P P Pradyumnan. Phase Investigation of Micro Crystals of ZTO.

International Journal of Chem Tech Research, Vol.6, No.6, pp 3259-3261, Aug-Sep (2014) ISSN :

0974-4290.

29


Immunomodulatory effect of beta glucan on neutrophil functions in Diabetes

mellitus- An in vitro study

NEETHI RAJ P. (Research Fellow)

Parakkatt house V K C (P O), Thevackal Cochin 682021 Email: [email protected]

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high glucose level in blood. Simultaneous

presence of hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia as seen in type II diabetes can lead to profound and

persistent defects of immune system and this may contribute to the inability of immune cells to rouse

to defensive mode when an infection starts. Neutrophils are the primary players during infections and

it determines the fate of infection by modulating even the functioning of other cells. However, the

extent of modulation of these cells in diabetes conditions is yet to be clear. Nutritional interventions by

way of consuming immunomodulatory compounds in a daily basis should be advisable to these

individual as an invasive and easy method for the effective diabetes management. Betaglucan, a

glucose polymer found as structural constituents of the cell wall of yeasts, moulds and endosperm of

cereals is a known potent immunomodulator though their effect on individual cells is not well studied.


This project proposal aims at studying the

modulation of neutrophil cell functions

during diabetes and also to find out how

useful it is to include a betaglucan rich diet

in diabetes patients for alleviating the above

mentioned neutrophil dysfunctions.

Measurement of proinflammatory and anti-

inflammatory cytokines in the cell

supernatants of neutrophils exposed to HG

and/or HI will tell about whether the neutrophil functions are altered because of them. Parallel m-RNA

expression studies of these cytokines may reveal the level at which HG and HI influences their

activity. The effective dose of beta-glucan in reverting the neutrophil function can be assessed by

treating the neutrophil in the presence of different concentration of beta-glucan and the above

mentioned neutrophil function may be assessed in the presence of this polysacharide in vitro. To

confirm the results, neutrophil function of rat neutrophils may also be assessed after dietary

consumption of beta glucan.


30


Title of the Project Immunomodulatory effect of beta glucan on neutrophil

functions in Diabetes mellitus- An in vitro study

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs.13,00,000/-, 3 years (from 15/03/2014 to

14/03/2017),(P) No. 1368/2014/KSCSTE dt. 20/02/2014

Name of Institution M. G. University, School of Biosciences, P. D. Hills,

Kottayam


Mentor

Dr. Anie Y, Assistant Professor, School of Biosciences,

M G University


of project

15/03/2014

Present Status 2nd



Chemotactic potential of diabetic neutrophils were substantially reduced than normal

control subjects. No correlation was observed between the fasting blood sugar and

HbA1C levels. Phagocytic activity of neutrophils was decreased in the case of diabetes mellitus. The

defective phagocytosis showed a positive correlation with fasting blood sugar level and

HbA1C level. Chemotaxis, ROS productions, killing and NETosis do not seems to be directly

associated with blood glucose level, HbA1C level and gender or sex of the patients. Ketosis, HbA1C level and neutrophil secretions modulate neutrophil functions.

Work to be done:

Pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-8, IL-1β, IL-12, IL-6 and anti-inflammatory

cytokine TGF-β1 of neutrophils cells under different experimental conditions by

Enzyme Linked Immunosorbenet Assay (ELISA) and mRNA expressions by RT-PCR.

In vitro evaluation of immunomodulatory effect of beta glucan will be done by

isolating beta glucan from oats/rice bran and then treating the isolated neutrophil cells

with this beta glucan.


Proper functioning of immune cells is crucial to avoid infections in Diabetes Mellitus

(DM) patients. This research work studies the alterations in neutrophil cells functions.

Betaglucan is a carbohydrate present in oats, barley, mushrooms etc and has profound

beneficial effect on immune system. The study looks into the usefulness of betaglucan

rich diet for controlling neutrophil dysfunctions in DM patients.


1. Neethi Raj P., Haritha V.H., Anie Y. Netrophil extracellular Trap formation during

hyperglycemia: In proceeedings of 27th

Kerala Science Congress held during 28-30 January

2015 at Alappuzha p.123.

31


Molecular analysis of the α-amylase production in Streptomyces griseus

(MTCC 3756) and development of a low cost maltose processing technology

DIVYA BALAKRISHNAN (Research Fellow)

Divya house Kulangara bhagom Chavara P.O. Kollam - 691583. Email: [email protected]

Microbial enzymes are becoming increasingly important for their technical and economical . The

enzymes not only play an important role in the cellular metabolic processes but have also gained

considerable attention in the industrial community. The microbial amylases have almost completely

replaced chemical hydrolysis of starch in starch processing industry. Amylases are using in the

industrial starch conversion process, as in starch liquefaction, maltose production, paper, food, sugar

and pharmaceutical industries etc. α-Amylases catalyze the hydrolysis of internal α-1,4-O-glycosidic

bonds in polysaccharides giving maltose units. These enzymes are used in the production of high

maltose syrup from starch in combination with pullulanase. Maltose covers a wide range of application

in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Bacterial α-amylases are now also used in areas of clinical,

medicinal, and analytical chemistry.


The aim of this study is the molecular level

characterization of the genes encoding α-amylase in

Streptomyces griseus, its cloning and heterologous

expression in E. coli and development of a low cost

technology for maltose production from starch. The

conditions will be standardized to express the protein in

E. coli with high yield under laboratory conditions. The protein will be purified using different

chromatographic techniques and will be analyzed for its physico-chemical features which are

important to the industry. Once the application part is established, the protein will be produced in

fermenter level and purified and further analysed for maltose production from different starch sources.

Cloning and expression of biocatalyst genes into a suitable and faster growing mesophilic hosts like E.

coli or yeasts followed by optimization of fermentation have provided possibilities of producing the

specific enzymes for various purposes. It allows easy preparation and cost effective purification on

large scales for industrial applications.


32


Title of the Project

Molecular analysis of the α-amylase production in

Streptomyces griseus (MTCC 3756) and

development of a low cost maltose processing

technology

Amount Sanctioned & Period Rs.15,96,000/-, 3 years (from 03/03/2014 to

02/03/2017)

(P) No. 1367/2014/KSCSTE dt. 20/02/2014

Name of Institution Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and

Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram


Mentor

Dr. Shiburaj S, Scientist-C, Division of

Microbiology, JNTBGRI

Date of commencement of project

03/03/2014

Present Status

2nd



After Sephadex G-100, the specific activity of α-amylase increased up to 34.7 U/mg

with 7 fold purification with a yield of 14.5 % and molecular weight was observed to `

60KDa.

The purified protein was trypsin digested and subjected for LC- MS/MS analysis. By

analyzing its partial amino acid sequences, the enzyme was proposed to be α-amylase.

The nucleotide sequences of alpha amylase gene were retrieved from the NCBI and

subjected to CLUSTALW. The conserved regions were obtained and primers were

designed using primer 3 tool. 5 set of primers were designed. Among 5 primers

constructed, Primer AMY 5 were amplified and 500 bp amplified product obtained. A

phylogenetic tree was constructed using MEGA 4.0 Programme.In the phylogenetic tree

the partial amylase gene of S. griseus clusters with that of S. fulvissimus.

Work to be done:

Purification of expressed proteins in the heterologous system

Lab level physico-chemical analysis of enzymes.

Standardization of conditions to produce enzymes in fermenter.


The industrial enzyme market is one of the fastest growing revenue generating sectors in

the world. Since very few enzymes have been potentially utilized at the industrial level,

hence there is a huge scope for the development of robust and low cost enzymes and

cost effective production through recombinant DNA technology.

Industrially valuable production of thermostable amylase and development of a low cost

maltose processing technology will add an advantage to the socio-economic or

developmental scenario of the state of Kerala, by attracting enzyme industries to the

state.

Publication based on the project

International Journal

1. Divya Balakrishnan, Neethu R S, Pradeep N S and Sugathan Shiburaj (2015). Cellulolytic Activity of

Streptomyces clavifer TBG-MNR13 (MTCC 4150) isolated from Neyyar Wild Life Sanctuary of Kerala,

India" International Journal of Applied Biotechnology and Biochemistry. 5 (1) 1-15.

33


Fabrication and characterization of hetero junction solar cells: FTO/ n-silver

indium gallium selenide / p- silver indium selenide / metal (In or Al)

RAJANI JACOB (Research Fellow)

Madavilayil Y.M.C.A Road Athani P.O. Ernakulam - 683585 Email: [email protected]

Economical use of sunlight has been a key goal of scientists for over 50 years to meet the annual elec-

tricity requirements of the entire world population. Today, there are several research attempts on pho-

tovoltaic materials that could provide improved performance of photovoltaic systems which has be-

come one of the best potential unconventional energy sources to meet the increasing energy demands .

Moreover, the study of materials in thin film form suitable for pollution free, renewable energy

sources such as photovoltaic devices are of significant importance in this era of energy and environ-

mental concerns. Though Si technology has been dominating the field, chalcopyrite thin films like

CuInSe2 and CuInGaSe2 has found a breakthrough in the fabrication of cost-effective solar cells. Re-

cent researches propose Ag-based chalcopyrite compounds as better candidates for solar cell fabrica-

tion due to its favorable band gap that matches the optimum solar spectrum and the absence of short-

ing effects which is usually observed in Cu based photovoltaic devices caused by the larger diffusion

coefficients of copper.


The study envisages the fabrication of hetero junction

devices with nanostructured thin films of Ag(In,Ga)Se2

(AIGS) and AgInSe2 (AIS) belonging to the family of I-

III-VI compounds. The proposed hetero structures are:

Schottky diodes with configuration FTO/n-AIGS/Al and

Hetero structure devices with configuration FTO/n-

AIGS/p-(In or Al). Fluorine Tin Oxide (FTO) coated on

glass substrates and metal thin films will serve as the

electrodes. Assessment of efficiency trend of cells

would be done by voltage-current measurements using a

solar simulator. Even though improving efficiency is

one of the objectives, influence of different cell

parameters that affect the efficiency will also be

investigated.


34


Title of the Project

Fabrication and characterization of hetero junction

solar cells: FTO/ n-silver indium gallium selenide /

p- silver indium selenide / metal (In or Al)

Amount Sanctioned & Period

Rs. 16,00,000/-, 3 years (07/03/2014 to 06/03/2017)

(P) No. 1349/2014/KSCSTE dt. 13/02/2014

Name of Institution

Dept. of Physics, Union Christian College, Aluva


Mentor

Dr. Rachel Reena Philip, Assistant Professor,

Department of Physics,U C College, Aluva

Date of commencement of

project

07/03/2014

Present Status

2nd

year of implementation in progress


Successful incorporation of tin and antimony in polycrystalline thin films of AgInSe2

which resulted in the enhancement of conductivity by about three orders.

Fabrication of different hetero structures like, Al/p-Si/n-AgInSe2:Sn/Al and ITO/n-

AgGaSe2/p-AgInSe2:Sn/Al. Work to be done:

Preparation of the thin films by spray pyrolysis using precursor solutions of silver

nitrate, indium trichloride, gallium nitrate/gallium trichloride, sodium selenosulphate/

SeC(NH2)2 etc.

A comparative study of the film properties deposited by the different techniques.

Fabrication of hetero structures with configuration FTO/n-AIGS/Al.

Optimization of the conditions for the solar cells with configuration, n-Ag(InGa)Se2 /

p-AgInSe2 as active pn junctions and by allowing modifications especially in

thickness and band gap of p and n layers for better performance.


The Kerala state has a greater potential for harvesting the sunlight to meet the annual

energy requirements, which requires more and more studies on photovoltaic

materials.

The outcome of the study is expected to give valuable information regarding the

Silver (Ag) based p-n junctions which is essential in the field of fabrication of new

photovoltaic materials and configurations.

The present study on Ag-based chalcopyrites is expected to be contributory to the

research community, since there are very few studies on Ag-based I-III-VI

compounds for photovoltaic applications compared to their well known counter parts

- Cu-based I-III-VI compounds.

Publication based on the project

International Journal

1. Rajani Jacob, Gunadhor S. Okram, Johns Naduvath, Sudhanshu Mallick, and Rachel Reena

Philip, “Tin Incorporation in AgInSe2 Thin Films: Influence on Conductivity” The Journal of

Physical Chemistry C (Impact factor: 4.835), J. Phys. Chem. C, 119 (10), (2015), 5727-5733,

ACS Publication, DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.5b00141.

35

2014-15


Scientific Validation of Kashayams used in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

ASWATHY I.S. (Research Fellow)

Research Scholar Department of Biochemistry University of Kerala Kariavattom Campus Thiruvananthapuram -695581 Email: [email protected]

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic inflammatory disorder characterized by chronic joint inflammation and

continuous cell infiltration in to the synovium. The mesenchymal cells which interact with the activated T cells

are an important determinant in the development of chronic inflammation in the joints. Matrix

metalloproteinases (MMP) are responsible for degradation of extracellular matrix components and plays a

crucial role in joint destruction. Key molecules involved in intracellular pathways of rheumatoid arthritis are

NFκB, MAP kinase, phosphoinositide 3 kinase/ AKT; signal transducers, activators of transcription factors

(TNFα) and ROS production. All these molecules can be the target for drug designing. Although several

Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs have been found to be effective in Rheumatoid arthritis treatment they

are not without their drawbacks. In this context Kashayams that is used in classical ayurvedic treatments gain its

importance. Kashayam which is otherwise called herbal decotions are ayurvedic polyherbal formulations in

liquid form containing soluble principles of herbs.


The present study aims to provide a scientific validation for the classic

ayurvedic knowledge on Kashayam based treatment of RA. Three

kashayams Guggulutiktam, Balaguluchyadi and Punarnavadi kashayams

used in rheumatoid arthritic treatment are taken for studies. But they lack

proper scientific background and the present study have the objective to

give scientific validation to these herbal decotions based on molecular

signalling of inflammatory molecules and immunomodulatory effect in

experimentally induced animals.

Since these kashayams are used in rheumatoid arthritic conditions based on

classical ayurvedic texts, by providing scientific background the global

knowledge about Ayurveda and Indian herbs will hopefully be enhanced.


36

File No : No.022/WSD-BLS/2012/CSTE

Title of the Project : Scientific Validation of Kashayams used in Rheumatoid

Arthritis (RA)

Amount Sanctioned

& Period : Rs. 26,00,000/-, 3 years (from 02/03/2015 to 01/03/2018)

(P) No. 911/2015/KSCSTE dt. 09.02.2015

Name of Institution : Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

: Dr. A. Helen, Department of Biochemistry, University of

Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695581

Date of

commencement of

project

: 02.03.2015

Present Status : 1st year implementation of the project

Expected outcome of the project:

The study will provide a scientific validation to the empirical knowledge of the

ayurvedic poly-herbal formulations used in RA treatment. The results can be extrapolated to find the link between other inflammatory diseases

and formulations. The study results in the promotion and marketing of ayurvedic medicine on a bigger

scale due to the assurance obtained by the scientific testing and validation process

involved.


Helpful to those suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis and is following conventional

medicines.

Scientific data addition to ayurvedic kashayams and its awareness is necessary to

attract common man towards our traditional system of medicine.

Although the treatment plan is of long term the systematic approach will reduce the

symptoms effectively.

While going through molecular level of action of kashayams new pathways could be

elucidated.

37


Investigations on the development of solid acid catalyst from natural palygorskite

collected from different parts of India

DHANYA BALAN A.P. (Research Fellow)

Kayakkulam Periye P.O. Kasaragod 671316 Email: [email protected]

One of the major current challenges before chemist is to develop synthetic methods that are less polluting that is

to design clean or green chemical transformations. Catalysts are substances that change the rate of a

chemical reaction without actively taking part in the reaction as a reagent. Chemical manufacturing

processes require the use of catalysts. The chemical manufacturing process should be such that they do not

cause permanent damage to the environment or disturb the ecological balance. The use of eco-friendly solid

acid catalyst is catching up as they cause only reduced pollution and waste disposal problems compared to their

toxic and corrosive counter parts viz AlCl3,BF3,HFand HCl etc. In this perspective, the study on clay based eco-

friendly catalysts become the need of the day. Clay catalysts are less expensive, reusable non corrosive and

have no disposal problem. The use of eco-friendly catalysts that do not damage the environment is

preferred over usual ones that damage the environment and the eco-system.

An important family of catalysts that has received considerable attention of the synthetic chemist in recent times

is derived from the soil. Important one being clays and zeolites. These are heterogeneous catalyst offer several

intrinsic advantages over their heterogeneous counter parts. Zeolites are widely used in the petrochemical

industry in acid catalysed process.


The present work focusses on the development of catalysts from

Palygorskite clays collected from different parts of India. The

substance is an under explored in terms of knowledge of its

catalytic properties. The samples will be treated to produce

catalytic properties and the catalytic effects on various reactions

will be studied through various analytical methods to formulate

results.


38

File No. No.040/WSD-BLS/2013/CSTE

Title of the Project Investigations on the development of solid acid catalyst from

natural palygorskite collected from different parts of India

Amount Sanctioned &

Period Rs 29,82,000/-, 3 years (from 09/02/2015 to 08/02/2018)

(P) No. 914/2015/KSCSTE dt. 09.02.2015

Name of Institution Department of Chemistry, Government College, Kasaragod

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. Pushpaletha P., Assistant Professor, PG Department of

Chemistry, Government College, Kasaragod

Date of

commencement of

project

09/02/2015

Present Status 1st year implementation of the project

Expected outcome of the project

The development of environmentally benign and reusable solid acid catalysts is of

great practical importance.

The Palygorskite based catalysts will help in the utilization of natural resources for

the production of efficient environment friendly catalysts with wide potential for use

in the industrial level.


Commercial clay catalysts are made out of a German clay. Clay catalysts are not

currently prepared from Indian clays. So the present study is of Interest to chemical

Industries who are switching over from liquid acid catalysts to solid acid catalysts.

There are several methods for developing solid acid catalysts from palygorskite. Our

aim is to find the method which give the best catalyst with highest activity and

selectivity for alkylation and acetylation reaction and to find a correlation between

physical properties of the catalyst and its catalytic activity.

39


Microstructural Investigations in Gas Sensing of Doped Tin Oxide Thin Films

PRASANNA KUMARI K. (Research Fellow)

Mudhayekara (H) Mathirapilly, College (PO), Kothamangalam Eranakulam - 686666 Email: [email protected]

Due to rapid industrialization accompanied by globalization, developing countries like India are now

facing grave environment crisis. Increasing environmental pollutants, effluents, toxic and inflammable

gases, radiation etc. are posing a great threat to the healthy and sustained existence of flora and fauna

all over the world. Nowadays much attention has been given to develop high performance gas sensors

and system for monitoring such gases in various environments. The detection of hazardous gases has

always been a complex subject and makes choosing an appropriate gas monitoring a difficult task

The metal oxide semiconductor thin films are widely employed as gas sensors owing to its remarkable

advantages in fabricating devices with lesser size, easy array-integration and lower power consump-

tion along with high sensitivity and selectivity. The thin films are layers of material on a substrate with

thickness less than about one micron and properties strongly influenced by surface and interface ef-

fects. The development of gas sensors using thin film technology mainly uses metal oxides like tin ox-

ide (SnO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), iron oxide (Fe2O3) as active materials. Among them, tin oxide is report-

ed to have good sensitivity towards various gases and the selectivity can be improved by adding do-

pants.


The study aims to prepare nanosized SnO2 thin films by Spray pyrolysis in different dopant

concentrations especially non-noble metals. By varying the precursor combination, the grain size and

grain boundaries in relation to gas sensing and sensor response is to modified. The available data

involved in the field of tin oxide films are mostly based on empirical data and calls for a systemic

study. Therefore the study focuses on the structural and performance analysis of tin oxide films in

fabricating efficient gas sensors.


40


Title of the Project Microstructural Investigations in Gas Sensing of Doped Tin

Oxide Thin Films

Amount Sanctioned

& Period Rs. 12,35,000/-, 3 years (from 09/02/2015 to 08/02/2015)

(P) No. 909/2015/KSCSTE dt. 09.02.2015

Name of Institution Department of Physics, Mar Athanasius College,

Kothamangalam

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. Deepa S., Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Mar

Athanasius College, Kothamangalam

Date of

commencement of

project

09.02.2015



The study will result in production of a better analysis and material characteristics of

doped tin oxide thin films for gas sensing applications.

Production of highly efficient gas sensors with better selectivity and sensitivity,

which may find applications in the various industrial and residential sectors.


Due to industrialisation and globalisation, developing countries like India are facing

environmental crisis. Air pollution is one of the most crucial current environmental

problems of our modern society and there are lot of gases and dangerous polluting

agents whose detection is therefore important in various fields like air quality

control, combustion process and engine emission. The detection of various gases like

CO, H2, LPG, CH4 etc has become very important because of the continuous

increase in the environmental pollution. In order to regulate the emission of toxic or

environmentally sensitive gases into the atmosphere, a safety regulation has been

designed to create safer living and working conditions. This forces a need for

development of effective and sensitive pollution monitors. This work explains some of the key factors found to affect the sensing properties of

these materials. Currently available sensors are based on the chemical interactions

between the gas and a specific material whose physical properties are modified by the

gas. For any gas sensor to be useful, it should be able to detect the active gas

component in the presence of non-interfering background constituents. Here,

semiconductor oxide sensors are extensively studied in order to improve their sensing

characeristics such as sensitivity, selectivity, response rate to various kinds of gases to

meet the increasing needs of sensors in complicated systems under strict conditions

Gas sensors based on solid state semiconductor materials offer considerable

advantages in comparison to other gas sensing methods. Semiconductor sensors are

inexpensive to produce, easy to miniaturize, rugged, reliable and can be designed to

operate over a range of conditions including high temperatures. SnO2 based gas

detectors are presently used for detecting LPG and CO2 to prevent leakage, detecting

CO for pollution control, and as alcohol sensors for controlling drunken driving etc.

The most important use of SnO2 sensors in the home is in gas leak alarms.

41


Wetland studies of Akathumuri-Anchuthengu-Kadinamkulam estuarine system,

south west coast of India

KRISHNA R. PRASAD (Research Fellow)

Vandipura Veedu Near Ananthavaleeswaram Temple Nalanchira P.O. Trivandrum - 695015 Email: [email protected]

Wetlands are distinctive ecosystems that exhibit enormous diversity in terms of genesis, geography,

geology etc. The coastal belt of Kerala consists of an extensive system of estuaries and brackish waters

known as Kayals that lie in parallel along the Arabian Sea. Rapid and uncontrolled urbanization has

led to the destruction of these wetlands. Lack of scientific data is a major constraint in formulating a

solution to this problem.

Abstract of Work:

The Akathumuri-Anchuthengu-Kadinamkulam(A-A-K)

Estuarine system is selected for the study. The purpose of

this study is to establish the rate of sedimentation and pattern

by employing stable radioactive isotopes Previous studies

have revealed that the study area is a veritable hot spot, with

alarmingly low values of productivity ascribed mainly to the

high organic pollution consequent to husk retting. It is

noteworthy that this is the only source of pollution in the

estuary. Extensive husk retting is giving way to silting up of

the water body.

In the light of the above an attempt has been made in the

investigation to provide some scientific data on the sediment

rate and pattern, fossil study, sedimentological, mineralogical

and geochemical parameters of the wetland. It is hoped that

an assessment of A-A-K estuaries would be useful in

chalking out long term management plan for the sustainment

of this wetland systems


42

File No

No.046/WSD-BLS/2014/CSTE

Title of the Project Wetland studies of Akathumuri-Anchuthengu-

Kadinamkulam estuarine system, south west coast of India

Amount Sanctioned &

Period

Rs. 23,10,000/-, 3 years (from 04/03/2015 to 03/03/2018)

(P) No: 910/2015/KSCSTE dt. 09.02.2015

Name of Institution National Centre for Earth Science Studies, Akkulam,

Thiruvananthapuram 695011

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. Reji Srinivas, Scientist-B, Marine Sciences Division,

National Centre for Earth Science Studies


of project

04.03.2015



The study on A-A-K wetland will result in the creation of scientific data for the long

term management of the wetland system.

The usage of several scientific tools and utilities will help in the preparation of a

wetland health report card and maps that will result in formulation of better

management strategies of the estuary.


The work highlights present status of the estuarine water and sediment quality.

Helps to evaluate the loss of wetland due to various anthropogenic activities.

Results could be used for future policy making and better management of this

ecosystem.

43

2015-16


Climate Smart Natural Resource Management of Cassava

(Manihot esculenta Crantz) using Geoinformatics Tools

SHINY R. (Research Fellow)

“Domus Gratia” TC 7/1755-3 Pangode, Thirumala P.O. Thiruvananthapuram 695006 Email: [email protected]

The main objective of the study is to develop a climate smart natural resource management for cas-

sava .Crop identification and production forecasting for the crop is still unexplored which will be

taken into account for the study. Studies on the impact of different scenarios of future climate on

suitability and productivity and gain in yield due to various adaption options in major growing zones

using GIS tools, ecological niche and crop models are lacking. Hence it is planned to study the im-

pact of future climate on suitability and productivity of cassava in major growing areas. A proper

soil resource management by secondary and micro-nutrient inclusive plant nutrient formulations is

very important and continuous practice of the technology on yield, nutrient use efficiency and carbon

sequestration is lacking is also studied.

Abstract of Work:

The aim of the study is to estimate area and forecast

production of cassava in major growing areas of

India using temporal multi-sensor remote sensing

data. Studies on changes in suitability of cassava to

different scenarios of future climate and the gain in

production due to various adaptation options is also

included. The effect of secondary-and micronutrient inclusive plant nutrient formulation in improving

yield and nutrient use efficiency of cassava and soil quality and soil carbon sequestration is also

included. The study also plans to develop a decision support system for climate smart natural resource

management of cassava


44

File No No. 056/WSD-BLS/2014/CSTE

Title of the Project Climate Smart Natural Resource Management of Cassava

(Manihot esculenta Crantz) using Geoinformatics Tools

Amount Sanctioned &

Period Rs. 19,85,000/-, 3 years (from 04/09/2015 to 03/09/2018)

(P) No. 472/2015/KSCSTE dt. 01.09.2015

Name of Institution ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI)

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

DR. G.Byju, Principal Scientist, Division of Crop Production,

ICAR-CTCRI,Sreekaryam,Thiruvananathapuram


of project

04.09.2015



Methodology to estimate exact crop acreage using remote sensing technique and also

helps to forecast production in cassava.

Knowledge regarding the impact of different scenarios of future climate on suitability

and productivity and gain in yield due to various adaptation options in major cassava

growing zones.

The study also provides information for a proper soil resource management by second-

ary and micronutrient inclusive plant nutrient formulations.


Development of a farmer friendly decision support system for climate smart natural resource

management of cassava, which will benefit the future cassava based agrarian system in India,

thereby improving the socio- economic status of the stakeholders involved.

45


Production and characterization of β- glucanase from Streptomyces sp.

LEKSHMI K. EDISON (Research Fellow)

Kalpakassery House Nedumon Kovalam P.O. Thiruvananthapuram 695527 Email: [email protected]

Enzymes are potential biocatalysts performs specific biochemical reactions. Particularly microbial enzymes are of special interest because they are considered as organic catalysts. It becomes increasingly important in the fields of agriculture, medicine and industry due to their broad technical and economical advantages. β- Glucanase represents a group of hydrolyzing enzymes helps for breaking down the beta linked glucose polymers that is too long to digest by humans easily. They are active on insoluble substrates like β-glucan components, act as both exo and endo hydrolyses. Thus helps for digesting grains such as barley, oats, wheat, soya bean meal etc. These enzymes also have a beneficial role in enological practices thereby reduce wort viscosity and improve filtration process and yield extractions.Based on the type of cleavage of glycosidic linkage they are further classified as β- 1,3-Glucanase, β- 1,6-Glucanase and β- 1,4-Glucanase. Abstract of the work:

The enzyme β- Glucanases are less characterized in

Streptomyces sp in comparison with other bacterial and fungal

β- Glucanase. Because of this reason Streptomyces sp will be

considered as a novel potential strain.

The study aims the isolation and characterization of a novel

Streptomyces strains and molecular level characterization of

genes encoding the β-Glucanase enzyme, co-expression of

different β- Glucanase genes in E. coli.

The conditions will be standardized to express the protein in E. coli with high yield under laboratory

conditions. The protein will be purified using different chromatographic techniques and will be

analyzed for its physico-chemical features which are important to the industry. Once the application

part is established, the protein will be produced in fermenter level and purified and further analysed its

activity levels using different glucan substrates.


46

File No

No. 050/WSD-BLS/2014/CSTE

Title of the Project Production and characterization of β- glucanase from

Streptomyces sp.

Amount Sanctioned &

Period Rs. 16,60,000/-, 3 years (from 01/12/2015 to 30/11/2018)

(P) No. 523/2015/KSCSTE dt. 14/09/2015

Name of Institution Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research

Institute, Palode, Trivandrum

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. N. S. Pradeep, Scientist-E, Division of Microbiology,

JNTBGRI, Thiruvananthapuram

Date of

commencement of

project

01/12/2015

Present Status 1st year implementation of the work is progress.


New genes coding for β- Glucanase from an entirely new strain of Streptomyces

will be cloned and characterized. These will lead to the production of new

recombinant β- Glucanase enzyme comprising synergic action of both endo-β-1,3-

Glucanase and exo-β-1,4- Glucanase that will execute the complete degradation of

barley β- glucan. A commercially valuable β- Glucanase enzyme having potential application in

brewing industry and a low cost brewing process with low viscosity of mashes, high

yields of ethanol, and low levels of residual beta-glucans will be the result.


New genes coding for β- Glucanase from an entirely new strain of Streptomyces

will be cloned and characterized. These results will direct the possibilities of utiliz-

ing E. coli as the expression system, usually to get the organism to produce as much

of that protein as possible and can be studied in highly pure form.

By elucidating the genomic component of this gene, bioinformatics tools can be

used to modify the protein to improve its features.

Introduction of β- Glucanases as a commercially valuable product, a low cost brew-

ing process with low viscosity of mashes, high yields of ethanol, and low levels of

residual beta-glucans will be the result.

47


Nutritional and Biochemical Studies of Wild Edible Mushrooms used by

Tribes of Palghat and Wayanad Districts of Kerala

SHAHINA.N.K. (Research Fellow)

Shahina manzil Melattur (P.O.)

Malappuram -679326 Email: [email protected]

Fungi have been occupying a prominent position in the biological world because of their variety,

economic and environmental importance. The ethno botanical exploration studies related to plants are

done by many workers but scientific validation of wild fungal resources are poorly studied. Study and

research on the tribal knowledge of Kerala state on the utility of edible fungal resources in medicine

and their ecological diversity was not formed the basis for any organized study. Moreover lack of

proper documentation of ethnic knowledge along with transformation in primitive group is also

eroding rapidly.

Many ethnic tribes in Kerala are found to be mycophilic, they are hunting and consuming various

mushrooms as their food. Knowledge of nutritional value and chemical analysis of wild mushrooms

used by tribes are limited.


The main objectives of this study are collection,

identification and isolation of selected wild edible

mushrooms used by tribes of Palghat and Wayanad district

of Kerala. Study the nutritional and biochemical analysis of

the collected wild edible mushrooms and domestication of

two promising species if any find out (after sensory

evaluation study) during the course of investigation. These

Nutritional studies of potential wild edible mushrooms

which have remained unexploited can provide a source of

livelihood, a way through for a new drug discovery etc.

Domestication of potential mushroom helps in wider acceptability of people for mushroom

consumption and for cultivation.


48


Title of the

Project

Nutritional and Biochemical Studies of Wild Edible Mushrooms

used by Tribes of Palghat and Wayanad Districts of Kerala

Sanction Order

No. & Date

Rs. 14,80,000/-, 3 years (from 11/12/2015 to 10/12/2018)

(P) No. 661/2015/KSCSTE dt. 26.10.2015

Name of

Institution

Department of Botany and Research Centre, St Albert’s College,

Ernakulam

Name & Address

of Scientist

Mentor

Dr. K. Madhusudhanan, Assistant Professor, Department of

Botany & Research Centre, St. Albert’s College, Ernakulam

Date of

commencement of

project

11/12/2015

Present Status 1st year implementation of the work is in progress


The work will also help in identifying new wild mushrooms (if any) unknown to

scientific world and also in describing its taxonomic position in the fungal kingdom.

The nutritional, biochemical study will help in wider applicability of selected

species of wild mushroom in pharmacological/ drug industry Domestication of potential wild species if any found during the investigation based

on sensory evaluation will add to the list of cultivable variety Establishing institutional linkages and partnership with Governmental/ Non-

Governmental and communities working in the area of wild edibles and tribal

development programmes.


Nutritional and Biochemical properties of selected wild mushrooms can identify

active principles of the wild mushrooms used by tribes.

On discovery of active principles, potential in drug industry can be explored.

Domestication of potential wild mushroom species will add to the list of cultivable

variety.

49


Identification, isolation and characterization of Acyl Homoserine Lactone-mimic

compounds from selected plants

SHEETAL SIVANKUTTY (Research Fellow)

Madathumparampil Chumathra P.O. Thiruvalla Pathanamthitta - 689103 Email: [email protected]

Quorum sensing is a form of bacterial communication to coordinate certain behaviors based on the

local density of the bacterial population. As environmental conditions change rapidly, bacteria need to

respond very fast in order to survive. Quorum sensing can be described as a process through which the

accumulation of signaling molecules enables a single cell to sense the communication from other cells.

Many different bacteria which live together constantly produce and secrete certain signal molecules

known as autoinducers/pheromones. They possess specific receptors which can detect these signaling

molecules. Up on binding of inducer to this receptor, it activates transcription of certain genes,

including those for inducer synthesis.

The inhibition of quorum sensing using antagonist results in cell growth and hence is beneficial for the

production of desired product. Quorum sensing also has interesting role in the pollution control by

enhancing the synthesis of enzymes that can degrade the recalcitrant through regulation of concerned

AHL. Thus further research and understanding quorum sensing makes as possible to defeat against

many problems, such as plant pathogen interactions, multiple drug resistance along with the

degradation of organic pollutants.


The study aims to isolate and identify the quorum sensing mimic molecules

from selected plants and to test the ability of these mimic molecules in

inducing quorum sensing molecules as well as interfering with the quorum

sensing system. The study also aims to isolate the Pseudomonas specific AHL

mimic compounds from some selected plants.


50

File No

No. 058/WSD-BLS/2014/CSTE

Title of the Project Identification, isolation and characterization of Acyl

Homoserine Lactone-mimic compounds from selected plants

Amount Sanctioned &

Period Rs. 10,72,400/-, 2 years (P) No. 664/2015/KSCSTE dt. 27.10.2015

Name of Institution School of Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi University,

Kottayam

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. Jayachandran K, Associate Professor, School of

Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam

Date of Start of project 01/01/2016



The sighting of novel AHL agonists and antagonists offers new mechanism in

controlling plant pathogens or inactivating their pathogenicity by interfering in their

QS regulatory system. It can also influence or enhance the production the desired

product in fermentation such as antibiotics, enzymes, rhamnolipids etc. Able to enhance the quorum sensing mediated degradation of certain compounds the

rate of the treatment process can be increased. Enhancing QS can also modulate the

extent of nitrogen fixing in agricultural yield.


Sighting of novel AHL agonists and antagonists offers new mechanism in controlling

plant pathogens or inactivating their pathogenicity by interfering in their Quorum

sensing regulatory system. It can also enhance the production of the desired product in fermentation such as

antibiotics, enzymes, rhamnolipids etc.By enhancing the quorum sensing mediated

degradation of certain compounds the rate of the treatment process can be increased. Enhancing quorum sensing can also modulate the extent of nitrogen fixation in

agricultural yield.

51


Molecular Barcoding and Phylogenetic assessment of selected insect pests

(Lepidoptera and Hemiptera) of major cucurbits cultivated in Malappuram

District, Kerala

PRIYA BHASKARAN K. P. (Research Fellow)

Ayyappankavu House Parappanangadi P.O. Malappuram - 676303 Email: [email protected]

Cucurbits are vegetable crops belonging to family Cucurbitaceae, which primarily com-

prised species consumed as food worldwide in various forms i.e., salad (cucumber, gherkins,

long melon), sweet (ash gourd, pointed gourd), pickles (gherkins), deserts (melons) and culinary

purpose. Cucurbits provide humans and animals with numerous edible products. The flesh is an

important source of carbohydrates and water for the consumers of the tropical and semiarid

regions of the world. The seeds are rich in oil and protein. Cucurbits share about 5.6 % of the

total vegetable production of India. Being a large group of vegetable, cucurbits provide better

scope to enhance overall productivity and production.

Abstract of Work:

The major cucurbits produce to the Kerala market contributes are Bitter

gourd, Ash gourd and Red Pumpkin. The major insect pests attacking

these cucurbits are under Lepidoptera and Hemiptera Order. The

successful control of any insect pest is primarily based on its correct

identification. The classical taxonomy of most of these pests is well

described using morphological aspects. Studies addressing species-level

problems have involved the analysis of nuclear, chloroplast and

mitochondrial DNA at different levels of sequence resolution using

RFLPs, RAPD, DNA sequencing, single copy DNA-DNA hybridization

and others. Several of these recent advances in nucleic acid technology

have been used in the taxonomic studies of living organisms.


52


Title of the Project Molecular Barcoding and Phylogenetic assessment of

selected insect pests (Lepidoptera and Hemiptera) of major

cucurbits cultivated in Malappuram District, Kerala

Amount Sanctioned &

Period Rs. 14,65,000/-, 3 years (from 10/12/2015 to 09/12/2015) (P) No: 702/2015/KSCSTE dt. 11.11.2015

Name of Institution Department of Zoology, University of Calicut, Malappuram

Name & Address of

Scientist Mentor

Dr. Sebastian C. D., Assistant Professor, Department of

Zoology, University of Calicut

Date of Start of project 10/12/2015



Data on mtDNA COI gene sequence of lepidopteran and hemipteran pests of Bitter

gourd, Ash gourd and Red Pumpkin (Cucurbitaceae) widely cultivated in

Malappuram district, Kerala will be generated.

Information on phylogenetic and evolutionary analysis of these pests can be

developed.

The genetic divergence within and between the different species of the selected pests

will be deciphered.


Information on proper identification and phylogenetic analysis of common pests of

Bitter gourd, Ash gourd and Red Pumpkin can be developed.

The data about the makeup and origin of invasive pest populations in Kerala would

aid effective Pest Managements strategies and provide general information on

invasion biology. The COI barcode sequence information on pests can be used to find out their

evolutionary variation, host affiliation, geographic distribution and insect-host

interaction pattern.

53

BACK TO LAB PROJECT - 26

Empowerment of rural women for cultivation of economically viable

medicinal plants through agro-biotechnological interventions

Dr. RESMI. J

“Neelambari”, Thulamparambu South,

Haripad P.O., Alappuzha – 690514,

Kerala.

Email : [email protected]

Nationally, Kerala State is identified as a major consumer of medicinal plants. Apart from the age

old practices of Ayuvedic systems in its purest form, the state promotes herbal tourism, which is a

dwelling activity at present and generates employment potential. It is needless to note that, there is

tremendous scope for medicinal plant cultivation in Kerala for the development of herbal industry

and enhancement of economic background of rural unemployed women. Production of ideal type

and quality planting material for large-scale cultivation is also an important task. The planting

material therefore should be of good quality, rich in active ingredients, pest- and disease-resistant,

suitable for the agro-climatic condition of the proposed land and pharmaceutical demand. For

commercial exploitation of medicinal plants, a more optimized and reliable low cost

micropropagation protocol is necessary for continuous large scale plantlet production for

cultivation.

Considering the importance of promotion of cultivation of economically important medicinal plants

and income generation for unemployed rural women in Kerala state, this project is proposed with

the objectives of homestead cultivation of selected high value and industrially demanded medicinal

plants [Kaempferia galanga (Kacholam) and Curcuma longa (Manjal/Turmeric)] through

appropriate agro-technologies and increase the income of rural women. The target beneficiaries of

the project are unemployed rural women of one village of Alapuzha District in Kerala state. With

the effective implementation of the project the beneficiaries can find an alternative self-income

generation without hampering their other ongoing income generating activities. Broadly, the

activities of the project aim to train the beneficiaries on a scientific mode of homestead cultivation

with know-how of good agro-technology practices using genuine planting materials, linkage for

sustainable marketing of raw materials with local raw drug shops/ Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical firms

and formation of Self Help Groups to sustain the programme

after the completion of the project. Besides this, activities

will be concentrated to develop a cost-effective

micropropagation protocol for superior genotypes of

Kaempferia galanga and Curcuma longa cultivation. The

major outcomes of the project will be livelihood

enhancement and empowerment of rural women, promotion

of cultivation of medicinal plants and supply of genuine raw

materials for drug preparation.

54

File No. : File No. 068/WSD-BLS/2015/CSTE

Title of the Project : Empowerment of rural women for cultivation of economically vi-

able medicinal plants through agro-biotechnological interven-

tions.

Amount sanctioned and period : Rs. 23,68,000/- for 3 years,

(Council Order No. 992/2015/KSCSTE Dated 5/2/2016)

Name of Institution : Dept. Of Plant Breeding, Onattukara Regional Agricultural

Research Station (ORARS), Kayamkulam

Name and Address of Scientist : Dr. M. R. Bindu, Associate Professor,

Mentor Department of Plant Breeding, ORARS, Kayamkulam

Present status : yet to commence

Expected Outcome of the project

Income generation for rural unemployed women through homestead cultivation of selected com-

mercially valuable medicinal plants.

Generation of well trained women farmers on scientific mode of medicinal plant cultivation.

By adopting intercropping, the beneficiaries will get income from both crops with less expendi-

ture.

Enrichment of soil fertility by using medicinal plant’s unused leafy biomass after harvest as green

manure.

Formation of women Self Help Groups to sustain the programme.

Delivery of uniform raw materials timely to the industries.

Uplift the selected village to the map of State/ National/ International herbal trade.

Germplasm establishment of superior genotypes of K. Galanga and C. longa in ORARS.

Optimization of a cost effective micro-propagation protocol for superior genotypes of these se-

lected medicinal crops for cultivation.

Significance of the outcome in societal context

Cultivation of medicinal plants is socially acceptable and risk free income generation source for

rural women with less attention and expenditure compared to other crops. Besides, it can create

self -reliance and empowerment for rural women. Women farmers will be well trained on scien-

tific mode of medicinal plant cultivation . It is significant to provide pure and genuine raw mate-

rials, thereby enhancing the quality, efficacy and safety of the drugs.

Selected medicinal plants are commercially viable and suitable for agro-climatic conditions of

the target sites and intercropping with coconut, plantain etc. that do not require day-to-day atten-

tion and skills as floriculture and other crops

Formation of Self Help Groups can raise the programme to a sustainable level after the comple-

tion of the project. In addition, it will create leadership qualities and group tasking in women

beneficiaries and empower them culturally, socially and financially. It will lead to form small

scale entrepreneurs in the field which helps to sustain and promote the medicinal crop cultivation

programme.

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