eChapters

ABSTRACT

Concomitant with paradigm shift from agrarian and brick and mortar economy to knowledge and service based economy, India needs to adhere to the international conventions for the benefit of enriching its knowledgebase with which economic development and social welfare could be achieved. Although geoscientific research has been at the forefront and contributed immensely to our country’s economic development, number of applications for patents, copyrights, etc., on geoscientific concepts, databases, innovations, designs or processes has been negligible when compared with other branches of science. This paper intends drawing the attention of geoscientists on this lacuna and provides information on fundamental aspects of IPR that may be of help to geoscientists whose innovations are waiting to be filed for patents or copyright.

Mercury, a heavy metal, is present vi. Various forms and is well known for its toxic effects especially on human health. Mercury occurs naturally vin the environment through volcanic eruptions, weathering of rocks and forest fires. It can be observed in soil, water and the atmosphere. Human activities such as mining, industrial processes (eg. Coal Combustion, chor alkali production) and improper disposal of mercury containing products contribute to environmental contamination. Mercury can be absorbed through inhalation ingestion or skin contact. Once absorbed, mercury distributes throughout the body, crossing g the blood brain barrier and placenta. Inorganic mercury is partly metabolized to organic forms, such as methyl mercury, by micro organisms in environment. Mercury is excreted via Urine and feces. Mercury disrupts neuronal function by interfering with neurotransmitter signalling pathways, cognitive function, motor coordination and sensory perception Mercury accumulates in the kidneys, causing tubular necrosis. Proteinuria and renal failure. Clinical signs and symptoms are tremors memory loss, nausea, vomiting, hypertension and chest pain. Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, blood, Urine, hair tests and neuro imaging techniques namely MRI or CT scans. Treatment is based on chelation therapy. Finally it is concluded that understanding the sources, toxico kinetics, toxico dynamics clinical manifestations and treatment options is critical for effective management and prevention of mercury toxicity.

Antibiotics serve as a backbone of modern clinical management but are currently facing serious threats from nosocomial and community emerging antimicrobial-resistance (AMR). The misuse and overuse of antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents in humans and animals have accelerated the development of resistant strains. Amongst the drug-resistant microbes, major threat is posed by the ESKAPEE group, an acronym for Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter spp., and Escherichia coli, comprising high to critical drug-resistant, World Health Organization Critical Priority I and II pathogens. The dry pipeline of effective and new antibiotics further exacerbates the situation with looming threat of heading to a ‘post-antibiotic era’. In such daring scenario of AMR, where AMR is expected to be the largest killer by 2050, it is imperative to understand the AMR development mechanism in bacteria as survival mechanism to find out way to mitigate AMR development and transfer.

As cherished members of our families, pet dogs bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives. Understanding their normal behavior is essential for building a strong bond and providing the care and support they need to thrive. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the typical behavior of pet dogs:

1. Social Behavior

• Dogs are social animals and thrive on companionship and interaction with humans and other animals. They often seek out attention, affection, and physical contact from their owners.

• Common social behaviors include wagging their tails, licking, leaning against their owners, and seeking proximity during rest or sleep.

Abstract

Plant-associated microorganisms play a significant role in conferring resistance to abiotic stresses. These organisms include rhizoplane and endophytic bacteria and symbiotic fungi and operate through a variety of mechanisms like triggering osmotic response and induction of novel genes in plants. The development of stress tolerant crop varieties through genetic engineering and plant breeding is essential but a long and strained process, whereas microbial inoculation to alleviate stresses in plants could be a more cost effective environmental friendly option which could be available in a shorter time frame. Considering the current trends available, intensive future research is needed in this area, particularly on field evaluation and application of potential organisms.

What is Panchgavya?
Panchgavya is an ancient, holistic preparation derived from cows, revered in Hindu culture for its spiritual, agricultural, and medicinal benefits. The term “Panchgavya” comes from Sanskrit, where “Pancha” means five and “Gavya” refers to products obtained from cows. True to its name, Panchgavya consists of five components sourced from cows: three primary ingredients (cow dung, cow urine, and cow milk) and two secondary ingredients (curd and ghee).
These ingredients are mixed in a specific proportion and allowed to ferment, creating a potent concoction. When applied in Ayurveda, this preparation is often referred to as “Cowpathy,” a traditional practice believed to harness the natural healing properties of cow- derived substances. In contemporary times, the uses of Panchgavya have extended beyond religious rituals to applications in agriculture, medicine, and even environmental conservation.
The Significance of Panchgavya
In Hindu traditions, cows are venerated as symbols of life and sustenance. As a result, the products derived from them hold immense cultural and spiritual value. Panchgavya is used in various rituals to purify spaces, offer prayers, and seek blessings. Beyond its spiritual aspects, Panchgavya has gained recognition for its practical benefits in multiple fields, particularly in organic farming, animal husbandry, and sustainable living.

Importance of Policies for Extension
Policies play an important role in the field of extension, which involves the transfer of knowledge and technology from researcher to farmers, communities and other stakeholders. Following are some specific reasons why policies are vital for extension:
1. Accountability: Policies may provide basis for monitoring and evaluation of extension activities and for holding extension professionals and other stakeholders accountable for their actions.
2. Innovation: Policies can promote innovation in extension by encouraging the adoption of new technology, approaches and practices, encouraging experimentation, collaboration and continuous improvement. By removing barriers to adoption and offering rewards for testing, policies can also aid in the creation of an atmosphere that fosters innovation.
3. Consistency: Policies aid in ensuring that extension activities are consistent with the goals and objectives of organization or program. It offers a framework for decision-making that enables the uniform
handling of similar circumstances.

This practical assignment is conceptualized and operationalized to understand various tools and techniques in conducting a PRA at the village level and help students in understanding their application in village development planning.

PURPOSE

To get students acquainted with the PRA tools and techniques and their application in village development programme

Microbial Resistance Mechanism

Huge use of antibiotics in nosocomical environment has lead to the occurrence of multidrug resistance mechanism by microorganism against particular antibiotics (Munita et al., 2016; Zhao et al., 2020). Main operation includes chemical modification, efflux pump through passivation, modification of drug targeting gene and systemic elimination of antibiotics as many of them can form biofilm (Rajput et al., 2018) which can show extreme resistance. Chemical and enzymatic mechanism can include inactivation, activity loss, degradation and derivatizaton of antibiotics chemical group (Liu et al., 2019). Best idea may include production of enzymes or they can also expel antibiotic to efflux pump. Antibiotics drug efflux resistance can be accomplished by drug efflux pump playing an important role in microbial resistance. A different type of efflux pump system has been identified that include lipophilic and hydrophilic efflux system targeting the drug at different chemical properties (Wasaznik et al., 2009; Kumar et al., 2012). Another strategy adopting in resistance mechanism is modification of drug targeting gene. This mechanism makes the changes in drug to lose its target through drug targeting gene modification. Another important resistance mechanism is effectiveness of antibiotics by interfering with the target site. Therefore, bacteria has evolved different mechanism that include target site protection. A bactericidal role played by beta lactum antibiotics in inhibition of mucopeptide synthase and bacterial penicillin binding protein (PBP) in cell wall transpeptidation reaction that prevents the formation of complete call wall and hence dies (Sauvage et al., 2016). Bacteria also developed its own strategies to cope up with the environmental stress that can also include human body. In course of gaining the advantage bacteria needs to compete for nutrients and to keep away from the molecules produced by other competing organism (Zhao et al., 2019). Recently researchers have found the importance of biofilm resistance in bacteria. Bacterial biofilm resistance produce by complex and systematic drug resistance mechanism.

Introduction

Self Help Groups (SHGs) are fast emerging as a powerful tool of socio-economic empowerment of the poor in rural areas. These are based on the principle by the people, for the people and of the people. Such groups are participatory processes to provide opportunities for people to share knowledge, common experiences and problems.

Self Help Groups (SHGs) of women in India have been recognized as an effective strategy for the empowerment of women in rural as well as urban areas, bringing women together from all spheres of life to light for their rights or a cause. Since the overall empowerment of women is crucially dependent on economic empowerment,  women through these SHGs work on a range of issues such as health, nutrition, agriculture, forestry etc. besides income generation activities and seeking micro credit. “SHG is a small, economically homogeneous and affinity based group of people who have decided to save and contribute to a common fund to be lent to its members as per the groups decisions”. Generally, a ‘Self Help Group’ (SHG) is formed when members of a community, who have the same or similar problem, come together, meet, share experiences, have discussions and thereby arrive at solutions.

A social group is commonly conceptualized as an entity comprising two or more individuals engaged in reciprocal communication, characterized by shared traits and possessing a collective sense of unity. Within the framework of the social identity tradition, researchers delineate groups as entities whose members self-identify as part of the collective. Social groups exhibit diversity in terms of size and typologies. For instance, an individual’s initial social interactions occur within the familial context, where interactions with immediate family members, notably the mother, serve as primary points of contact. Subsequently, as the individual progresses through developmental stages, engagement with peers and neighbors expands the social sphere, constituting another significant social group. Further social group affiliations emerge during formal education, as the individual integrates into student cohorts within educational institutions. Over time, the individual assumes diverse roles within broader societal contexts, contributing to the fabric of community and national citizenship. The diagrammatic representation of an individual’s interaction with his/her social group is as under.

A drone is a sophisticated piece of technology made of many key components that work together to enable flight and various functions. The primary parts include the frame, which provides the structure and support for all other elements; the motors and propellers, which generate lift and control movement; the flight controller, acting as the brain of the drone, processing input from sensors and guiding the drone’s flight path; and the battery, which powers the system. Moreover, sensors like GPS, accelerometers, and gyroscopes are integral for stability and navigation. Many drones also feature cameras and other payloads for specific tasks, such as aerial photography, surveying, or surveillance. These components, working in harmony, allow the drone to perform a wide range of applications in industries like entertainment, agriculture, and delivery.
KEY COMPONENTS OF A DRONE
Agricultural drones consist of multiple components, including a remote controller, an aerial platform, and a spraying mechanism. They possess sensors, cameras, and more components to enhance crop management and productivity. Understanding the fundamental components is vital to understanding the potential of agricultural drones. This section delineates the essential components that render these drones viable instruments for contemporary agriculture.

Abstract
Agricultural marketing in India enables the producers and the consumers to have a direct contact to buy and sell their products. But it is crucial to have a clear understanding on the consumer’s perceptions and preferences for the products who are the ultimate users as a better marketing strategy. The present marketing methods are much different from traditional ones, and can be even transformed by the use of data analytics, cutting-edge technologies, and data-driven insights by the Agri-marketers to perceive and interact with consumers. The success of a firm/business is greatly influenced by consumer perception and it is shaped by a number of elements, such as marketing initiatives, customer service, and product quality. Therefore, to have a positive perception of the consumers on the products, one should focus on
the ideology and the working of their perceptions which helps to design and brand their products accordingly. The Indian agricultural marketing system is facing a wide range of issues, that prevents it from going global due to its in competitiveness in the export activities. Its high time to focus on innovative policies and strategies that support for the economic growth and the enhanced livelihoods of the various stakeholders in this system.
Keywords: Consumer Perception, strategies, Agri-marketing, data analytics.

Agricultural marketing in India enables the producers and the consumers to have a direct contact to buy and sell their products. But it is crucial to have a clear understanding on the consumer’s perceptions and preferences for the products who are the ultimate users as a better marketing strategy. The present marketing methods are much different from traditional ones, and can be even transformed by the use of data analytics, cutting-edge technologies, and data-driven insights by the Agri-marketers to perceive and interact with consumers. The success of a firm/business is greatly influenced by consumer perception and it is shaped by a number of elements, such as marketing initiatives, customer service, and product quality. Therefore, to have a positive perception of the consumers on the products, one should focus on the ideology and the working of their perceptions which helps to design and brand their products accordingly. The Indian agricultural marketing system is facing a wide range of issues, that prevents it from going global due to its in competitiveness in the export activities. Its high time to focus on innovative policies and strategies that support for the economic growth and the enhanced livelihoods of the various stakeholders in this system.

Abstract

Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) consisting of water soluble organic molecules and by products of organic decomposition and chemical degradation processes, constitutes a critical link in carbon and nutrient cycles. The quality, or chemical and physical character, of DOC affects the degree to which it is transformed by biological and chemical processes. The significance of DOC was studied in layered coastal aquifers of the Pondicherry region during four different seasons. Pondicherry region has varied geological set up ranging from Cretaceous to Recent formations. A total of 52 groundwater samples were collected from various aquifers like Alluvium, Tertiary(Upper Cuddalore, Lower Cuddalore) and Cretaceous for two different seasons of pre- monsoon(PRM), and post-monsoon (POM). The samples were analyzed for major ions and DOC. The range of DOC in the study area is 0-14 mg/l. Very high DOC concentrations were measured during PRM in the samples from Alluvium and Lower Cuddalore Formation. The samples of these formations were compared with pH, Ionic strength, log pCO₂ and carbonate minerals concentration. The alluvial aquifer shows that pH governed dissolution along the coastal tracts and in Upper Cuddalore formation it’s based on interaction between aquifer matrix and groundwater.

Introduction

Wheat, a vital cereal crop cultivated globally, serves as a fundamental source of sustenance and livelihood for millions (FAOSTAT, 2021). However, wheat production faces hindrances from various biotic and abiotic stresses, with heat stress being a notable challenge (Prasad et al., 2019). The term “terminal heat stress” refers to the elevated temperatures occurring during the crucial reproductive phase of wheat, encompassing the grain-filling period and flowering stages (Lobell et al., 2012). Terminal heat stress emerges as a significant impediment to wheat cultivation, particularly in arid and semi arid regions, manifesting during the reproductive stage of the crop (Wassmann et al., 2009). This predicament is exacerbated by the escalating frequency and intensity of heat waves attributable to climate change (IPCC, 2021).

Abstract

A study on colloids in groundwater and its relationship with the geochemical parameters is reasonably essential because of its facilitating nature to transport radionuclides in groundwater. Colloid sampling has been carried out in the coastal aquifers of southeast coast of India. Two different bore wells were selected based on the distance from the coast to collect groundwater samples. On the basis of the result achieved from this study, a reliable representation is emerging. The values of pH and EC are governed by the different size fraction of colloids. In this study, the relation between different size fractions of groundwater colloids and its pH, TDS and EC were carried out. These parameters were analyzed in the lab and its influence with four fractions of colloid like 1.2, 0.8, 0.45 and 0.22 µm have been discovered by smooth scatter plot. The accumulation of particles weighting by normal weighing instrument. There is an higher accumulation of particles found in Kalpakkam than Anupuram in all the size fractions. For separation of particles high frequency pressure was used by ultrasonic cleaner had been carried out. This method is very simple and more reasonable than any other methods.

Introduction

The cerebellum, often referred to as the “little brain,” plays a crucial role in motor control, coordination, and speech. Dysarthria, a motor speech disorder manifested by difficulty in articulating words because of muscle weakness or incoordination, can be impacted by various factors along with drugs. Understanding the impact of drugs on cerebellar function and subsequent dysarthria is responsible for both medical professionals and individuals impacted by these conditions.

Cerebellar Abnormalities and Dysarthria

Cerebellar abnormalities can lead to a variety of causes including stroke, trauma, infections and neuro degenerative diseases. If the cerebellum is affected, it can lead to motor impairments namely ataxia (lack of coordination), tremors and dysarthria. Dysarthria particularly refers to difficulties in controlling the muscles used for speech, leading to slurred or unintelligible speech patterns.

Influence of Drugs on Cerebellar Function

Several drugs can influence cerebellar function either in a direct manner or an indirect manner. These drugs may impact neurotransmitter systems, interfere with neuronal activity or cause structural changes in the cerebellum. Some medications known to influence cerebellar function include:

Introduction

The cerebellum, a structure located at the back of the brain, plays a crucial role in coordinating movement, balance, and posture. Various factors along with drug use, can significantly impact its function resulting in cerebellar abnormalities. Among these effects, the rebound phenomenon stands out as a particularly intriguing aspect, shedding light on the intricate relationship between drugs and the brain.

Cerebellar Abnormalities and Drug Influence

Cerebellar Ataxia

Drug-induced cerebellar ataxia is a common manifestation of cerebellar dysfunction. Substances such as alcohol, anti epileptic drugs and certain chemotherapy agents can disrupt cerebellar function, leading to uncoordinated movements and impaired balance.

Neurotransmitter Imbalance

Many drugs alter neurotransmitter levels in the brain, affecting communication between neurons. GABAergic and glutamatergic neuro transmission, in particular, play crucial roles in cerebellar function. Disruption of these systems by drugs can contribute to cerebellar abnormalities.

Abstract

The development and management of fresh groundwater resources in coastal aquifers are seriously constrained by the impact of seawater intrusion. The coastal aquifers are fragile and this situation becomes more intense like that of the coastal Cuddalore region. The geochemical signature of groundwater of Cuddalore coast was studied for Pre Monsoon, Southwest, North east and Post Monsoon seasons by collecting total of 64 groundwater samples in each season. The collected samples from were analysed for physical parameters, such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH and major ion concentrations, such as Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, HCO₃, PO₄ and SO₄. Interpretation of analytical data shows the predominance of  Na–Cl type   in PRM and Ca- Mg-Cl type  is the dominant facies during POM. The Chaddas evaluation diagram shows that the hydrogeochemical evaluation plot for PRM samples fall in  Na-Cl type. The ratios of Na/Cl and Cl/HCO₃ is also enumerated the fact that the most of the samples from PRM and few samples from other seasons also indicates dominance of salt water intrusion.