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e-NEWS LETTER

Volume II Issue II May 2015

Gujarat University Botanicals Society (GUBS)

Department of Botany

Gujarat University

Ahmedabad – 380009. India

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ANKUR Volume II, Issue-II, May 2015

EDITORS

Dr. ARCHANA MANKAD

Dr. HITESH SOLANKI

Dr. HIMANSHU PANDYA

STUDENT EDITOR

Ms. RUBY PATEL

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Preface: ANKUR

2. From Editor’s Desk

3. YES, I AM A WEED… Dr. Archana Mankad

4. CLIMATE CHANGE AND FORESTS Dr. Himanshu Pandya

5. CLIMATE CHANGE AND PHYTOPLANKTONS Dr.Hitesh Solanki

6. MAGICAL HOUSEPLANTS Ruby Patel

7. CLIMATE CHANGE AND BIODIVERSITY Nisha Patel

8. CARBON MARKET MECHANISMS: EVOLUTION & FUTURE Nirmal Desai

9. Dead Sea in danger Pathik Bhatt

10. Glimpses of GUBS 2014-2015

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Preface

Ankur symbolises life. Now two years old, Ankur is established and ready to take on the challenges of the world of surprises posed by climate change. Yes, it is ready to stand and adapt to the changes because in the end it is all about the survival of the fittest.

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Editor’s Desk

Change is dynamic. We all seek change. But change in climate is not always pleasant. It rains when it should be shining and heats up when it should be cool. We are responsible for whatever is happening in our environment... in our climate. Climate change is infect scary. But all is not yet lost... there is still hope that we can undo our wrongs and leave the environment clean and pristine for our gen next.

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YES, I AM A WEED… Dr. Archana Mankad

A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to grow in rows. We are being very cruel to this group of plants that is striving hard to capture our attention.. here’swhy.. a poetic composition..(concept adapted from Nobody’s Child by Beatles)

As I was slowly passing a plant nursery one day I stopped for a little while just to see colourful flowers display Alone a plant was growing and when I asked “why so sad-“ It turned to my side and began to cry.. I am nobody’s plant… I am nobody’s plant Nobody wants me.. I am nobody’s plant Nobody waters me.. nobody feeds me.. I am nobody’s plant People come for flowers.. and take them for their own.. they all seem to pass me and I am left here all alone.. I hope someday in heaven, there would be garden for me.. where people would care and love me.. for my not so lovely flowers.. for not so tasty fruits.. I hope someday someone would realise that I have mastered the ART OF LIVING on this polluted earth.. Take my genes.. take my leaves.. take my fruits and my seeds.. but let me bloom in your garden with your loved plants.. I am nobody’s plant. Please don’t kill me.. Please don’t kill me..

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CLIMATE CHANGE AND FORESTS

Dr. Himanshu Pandya

Forests represent the most significant terrestrial ecosystems on our vibrant planet earth. The challenges faced by us today because of climate change threaten the health of our forests. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is the nodal agency in the administrative structure of the Central Government for the planning, promotion, co-ordination and overseeing the implementation of India's environmental and forestry policies and programmes.

The primary concerns of the Ministry are implementation of policies and programmes relating to conservation of the country's natural resources including its lakes and rivers, its biodiversity, forests and wildlife, ensuring the welfare of animals, and the prevention and abatement of pollution. While implementing these policies and programmes, the Ministry is guided by the principle of sustainable development and enhancement of human well-being.

The Ministry also serves as the nodal agency in the country for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP), International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and for the follow-up of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). The Ministry is also entrusted with issues relating to multilateral bodies such as the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD), Global Environment Facility (GEF) and of regional bodies like Economic and Social Council for Asia and Pacific (ESCAP) and South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) on matters pertaining to the environment.

The broad objectives of the Ministry are:

• Conservation and survey of flora, fauna, forests and wildlife • Prevention and control of pollution • Afforestation and regeneration of degraded areas • Protection of the environment and • Ensuring the welfare of animals

These objectives are well supported by a set of legislative and regulatory measures, aimed at the preservation, conservation and protection of the environment. Besides the legislative measures, the National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development, 1992; National Forest Policy, 1988;Policy Statement on Abatement of Pollution, 1992; and the National Environment Policy, 2006 also guide the Ministry's work. (Ref:http://envfor.nic.in/about-ministry/about-ministry)

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CLIMATE CHANGE AND PHYTOPLANKTONS

Dr. Hitesh Solanki

Phytoplankton are microscopic plants that grow in the upper regions of the ocean and fresh water bodies where sunlight is plentiful. These small plants, which are composed of algae, are the bottom of the food chain for the entire planet. Phytoplankton account for half of all photosynthetic activity on Earth. The effects of anthropogenic warming on the global population of phytoplankton is an area of active research. Changes in the vertical stratification of the water column, the rate of temperature-dependent biological reactions, and the atmospheric supply of nutrients are expected to have important effects on future phytoplankton productivity. Phytoplankton are also crucially dependent on minerals. These are primarily macronutrients and micronutrients. Phytoplankton depends on other substances to survive as well. In particular, Vitamin B is crucial. Phytoplankton are a diverse group, and there are about 5,000 known species of marine phytoplankton. There is uncertainty in how such diversity has evolved in an environment where competition for only a few resources would suggest limited potential for niche differentiation.

In terms of numbers, the most important groups of phytoplankton include the diatoms, cyanobacteria and dinoflagellates, although many other groups of algae are represented. One group, the coccolithophorids, is responsible (in part) for the release of significant amounts of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) into the atmosphere. DMS is oxidized to form sulfate which, in areas where ambient aerosol particle concentrations are low, can contribute to the population of cloud condensation nuclei, mostly leading to increased cloud cover and cloudalbedo according to the so-called CLAW Hypothesis. A 2010 study published in Nature reported that marine phytoplankton have declined substantially in the world's oceans over the past century. Phytoplankton concentrations in surface waters were estimated to have decreased by about 40% since 1950 alone, at a rate of around 1% per year, possibly in response to ocean warming. The study generated debate among scientists and led to several communications and criticisms, also published in Nature. These studies and the need to understand the phytoplankton in the ocean led to the creation of the Secchi Disk Citizen Science study in 2013.The Secchi Disk study is a global study of the phytoplankton conducted by seafarers (sailors, anglers, divers) involving a Secchi Disk and a free mobile phone app called Secchi.

Signs that such a large decline in phytoplankton has not occurred include not observing a comparable percentage decline in fish species which feed on phytoplankton. Another global ocean primary productivity study found a net increase in phytoplankton, as judged from measured chlorophyll, when comparing observations in 1998–2002 to those conducted during a prior mission in 1979–1986.

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MAGICAL HOUSEPLANTS Ruby Patel

A houseplant is a plant that is grown indoors in places such as residences and offices. Houseplants are commonly grown for decorative purposes, positive psychological effects, or health reasons such as indoor air purification. Major factors that should be considered when caring for houseplants are moisture, light, soil mixture, temperature, humidity, fertilizers, potting, and pest control.

Moisture: Both under-watering and over-watering can be detrimental to a houseplant. The best way to determine whether a plant needs water is to check the soil moisture. Feeling the soil is most reliable, since moisture meters are often inaccurate. Most potted plants must be allowed to reach an appropriate level of dryness in between watering

Light: Through the process of photosynthesis, plants convert the energy in sunlight to chemical energy, which fuels plant growth. The two important factors for providing light to a house plant are intensity and duration. Different plants require different light intensities. Windows are the most common sources of light for houseplants.

Soil: Houseplants are generally grown in specialized soils called potting compost or potting soil, not in local natural soil. A good potting compost mixture includes soil conditioners to provide the plant with nutrients, support, adequate drainage, and proper aeration. Most potting composts contain a combination of peat and vermiculite. Concern over environmental damage to peat bogs, however, is leading to the replacement of peat by coir (coconut fibre), which is a sustainable resource. A nutrient rich compost can usually be bought wherever potted plants are sold.

Temperature: Most houseplants are tropical species selected for their adaptation to growth in a climate which ranges from 15 °C to 25 °C (60 °F to 80 °F), similar to the temperature in most homes. Temperature control for other plants with differing requirements needs attention to heating and/or cooling.

Humidity: Humidity is slightly more difficult to control than temperature. The more commonly used houseplants have established that they can survive in low humidity environments as long as their roots are kept properly irrigated. Most plants thrive in 80% relative humidity while most homes are usually kept around 20% to 60% relative humidity.

Fertilizers: In a potted environment, soil nutrients can eventually deplete. Adding fertilizer can artificially provide these nutrients. However, adding unnecessary fertilizer can be harmful to the plant. Because of this, careful consideration must be taken before fertilizing.

Pot types and sizes: Proper pot size is an important factor to consider. A pot that is too large will cause root disease because of the excess moisture retained in the soil, while a pot that is too small will restrict a plant's growth. Generally, a plant can stay in the same pot for two or so years.

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CLIMATE CHANGE AND BIODIVERSITY Nisha Patel

Gases such as water vapour, carbon dioxide, ozone and methane are trapping heat and warming the planet. These gases are called greenhouse gases. The natural levels of these gases are being supplemented by emissions resulting from human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, farming activities and land-use changes. As a result, the Earth’s surface is warming and this rise in temperatureled many other changes. Rising of greenhouse gases are already changing the climate. According to the IPCCWGI Fourth Assessment Report, from 1850 to 2005, the average global temperature increased by about 0.76ºC and global mean sea level rose by 12 to 22 cm during the last century. Climate change predictions are not encouraging; according to the IPCC WGI Fourth Assessment Report, a further increase in temperatures of 1.4°C to 5.8°C by 2100 is projected. Predicted impacts associated with such temperature increase includes a further rise in global mean sea level, changes in precipitation patterns and more people at risk due to increasing health problems. Vulnerability of biodiversity induced by climate change The present global biota has been affected by fluctuating concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide, temperature, precipitation and has coped through evolutionary changes and the adoption of natural adaptive strategies. Such changes occurred over an extended period of time in a landscape that was not as fragmented as it is today and with little or no additional pressure from human activities. Habitat fragmentation has confined many species to relatively small areas within their previous ranges, resulting in reduced genetic variability. Current rates and magnitude of species extinction are far exceeding then normal background rates. Human activities have already resulted in the loss of biodiversity and thus may have affected goods and services crucial for human being. The rate of climate change induced by increased greenhouse gases emissions will continue to affect biodiversity either directly or in combination with other drivers of change. Interlinkages of biodiversity and climate change There is ample evidence that climate change affects biodiversity. According to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, climate change is likely to become one of the most significant drivers of biodiversity loss by the end of the century. Climate change is already forcing biodiversity to adapt either through shifting habitat, changing life cycles or the development of new physical traits. Conserving terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems and restoring degraded ecosystems are essential for the overall goals of both the Convention on Biological Diversity and UNFCC because ecosystems play a key role in the global carbon cycle and in adapting to climate change while also providing a wide range of ecosystem services that are essential for human being. Biodiversity can support efforts to reduce the negative effects of climate change. Conserved or restored habitats can remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus helping to address climate change by storing carbon. Moreover, conserving ecosystems, such as mangroves, can help to reduce the disastrous impacts of climate change such as flooding and storm surges.

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CARBON MARKET MECHANISMS: EVOLUTION & FUTURE Nirmal Desai

Global Warming is the recent topic in the political agenda all over the world. The most prominent effort to curb climate change being the Kyoto Protocol under United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Changes (UNFCCC) which was a legally binding agreement under which 192 countries had agreed to reduce (mandatory or voluntary) greenhouse gas emission. The objective of the protocol was the “stabilization” of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system . Joint Implementation(JI), Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Emission Trading (ET) are flexible mechanisms to tackle climate change for the Annex-I countries (mandatory reductions) . The credits thus generated can be sold and bought between Annex-I countries out of which CERs (Certified Emission Reductions) are applicable to Non Annex-I nations. These transactions are known as “offsets” (One CER is equivalent to the global warming potential of one metric ton of CO2). India stands second in CDM projects registered with 5003 projects by 2012 with over 150 million CERs issued. The number of CDM projects in Gujarat were 255 and the state’s CER earnings were of Rs 34.86 billion or 505.19 million Euros in the year 2012 alone.

Globally according to the World Bank's Carbon Finance Unit, 374 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) were exchanged through projects in 2005, a 240% increase relative to 2004 (110 mtCO2e) which was a 41% increase relative to 2003 (78 mtCO2eq). 450 members of the CCX had achieved reductions of 700 million tonnes of emissions over the life of the cap and trade program. The seven year CCX cap and trade program claimed to have successfully provided cost-effectiveness and market-based flexibility. According to the World Bank's Carbon Finance Unit, 374 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent were exchanged through projects in 2005, a 240% increase relative to 2004 (110 mtCO2eq)In terms of dollars, the World Bank has estimated that the size of the carbon market was 11 billion USD in 2005, 30 billion USD in 2006, and 64 billion in 2007, reaching 77.7 billion USD in 2015.

Future : The reputation of carbon markets has suffered in recent years e.g. COP 20 in Lima, when indigenous tribes appealed against markets that would encourage land speculations. The development of the Australian market featured in many of the Carbon Expo sessions along with China gives us a glimpse into the future of carbon markets showing market-based instruments as the most cost effective way to address climate change. Market alone are not the solution, innovation of new climate funds , finances, newer technologies etc. will lead to a low carbon economy. There are few examples of linked markets but in future we need to develop harmonized rules. The major milestone for the international community will be the negotiations at COP 21 in Paris ,2015 where an agreement for a global market and emissions reductions target by 2020 will be the aim of the negotiations. Although there is a high degree of skepticism with regard to achieving a global climate agreement in Paris 2015, rapid progress is being made and important new alliances such as between the US and China are being created. Nations will have to exercise political will and show ambition to generate

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financial mechanisms and environmental friendly policies in order to see the evolution of the current market systems which in turn will aid us in achieving carbon neutral or low carbon world in future.

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DEAD SEA IN DANGER

Pathik Bhatt Dead Sea is located in Israel.The Dead Sea lies some 400 m below sea level at the lowest point on the earth’s surface, and is a part of the Syrian - East Africa Rift Valley.Anything which is on the surface of the Dead Sea will did not disappear in the water but it floats on the water even Humans also.Also this Dead sea is being known for natural therapy also for many kind of skin diseases ….

About dead sea:

Lake type Endohernic , Hypersaline Primary in flow Jordan river Primary outflow None

Bio diversity None Flora None Fauna None

Catchment area 41,650 Basin countries Jordan , Israel

Importance of Dead Sea:

Its necessarily required to maintain the natural equilibrium of the world. Also used as natural therapy.Its used for medicinal purpose in regards of skin density. Also its important because of its unique identity that due to higher salinity none of the thing can be able to disappear into it.

Why in danger:

Due to increase in this temperature and effects of global warming and climate change its started disappearing dramatically. Also the Israel government provided its details in their national report that there is threat that Dead sea will be disappear entirely till 2050 on the basis of its rate of evaporation. Changes in gap of some years are provided in below image and that is the reason for this Dead Sea is in danger.

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GLIMPSES OF GUBS 2014-2015

The staff and students of the department actively participated in the garba celebration on 30th September 2014. The enthusiastic kheliayas took part and competed for the best costume, best dance and best pair awards.

Garba celebration- Aarti Garba celebration

The Gujarat University Botanical Society celebrated its annual cultural festival called WELCOME 2015 in the form of purposeful theme days. Each day witnessed participation of the members in various competitions coordinated by different student groups. The each one teach one day, the food festival ,the visit to the river front , the annual flower show was coordinated by the research scholars, while the sports day and Plantation day was coordinated by the semester IV students. The FOOD FESTIVAL on 7th January-2015 was a big hit with one and all as visitors enjoyed the mouthwatering delicacies prepared by the students. The students got a hands-on-experience of handling, managing and coordinating various aspects of the festival. The festival was inaugurated by Honorable Vice Chancellor Dr. M. N. Patel and sir took keen interest in the various delicacies and encouraged the participants. The thrust was on entrepreneurship and teamwork. The whole event was managed by students.

Vice-chancellor at food festival Students at food festival

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Plantation Day Flower Show

Flower Show Group at Flower Show

The Staff and Students of the department visited the river front on 8th January-2015.The before and after view of the Sabarmati River front was indeed an experience. The members of GUBS visited the annual flower show on 9th January-2015. They witnessed the various landscape designs using colours of the flowers and various models made with flowers. Outdoor landscaping using various seasonals, arbosculpture of trees and innovative ways of displaying cut flowers was truly exciting. The exhibition of paintings by school children was also beautifully laid and very nice.The Staff and Students of the department visited the exhibition of Vibrant Gujarat on 13th January-2015. The various pandals were brimming with excited visitors. The overall arrangement and facilities were highly commendable. The students got an opportunity to see so many new projects being undertaken by the Government and industries. It was indeed a moment of great pride for all of us.

Gujarat University Botanical Society (GUBS) and Women Development Cell (WDC) organized an Interactive forum on FIT is HIT 2015 (FH 2015) on Wednesday 28th January 2015 at the Department of Botany, Gujarat University. The one most urgent aspect for all of us is our fitness and health. We all agree that “Health is Wealth” and with the changing lifestyles and work pressure, it is high time we prioritize fitness and health in our daily regime. Alongside the various aspects of personality that make anyone an instant hit by making a good impression comes by personal grooming and effective body language. The programme included these themes and there were two invited lectures one on Fitness (FIT) and the other on making a good impression (HIT).Prof Savita Gandhi, Chairperson –WDC

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and Head-Computer Science Department welcomed the guests. She also highlighted the need of such timely co-curricular activities for an overall grooming and personality development of one and all. Dr.M.N.Patel, Honorable Vice Chancellor and President of the function blessed the gathering. He stressed on the need of physical fitness for a better life and motivated the students to take up fitness on a priority basis. Dr. Rajan Dalal very effectively justified the significance of physical exercise in our daily schedule. His creative presentation appealed to all present to address the problems of both excess weight and under weight. He demonstrated the right type, duration and frequency of exercise to be done for a toned body. The participants interacted with him with several questions after his lecture. Ms. Sonia Shah gave an impressive account of the significance and types of impressions. Focussing on looks for first impression, she impressed upon all the need of taking care of facial expressions and body language for an effective first impression. She took the help of volunteers from amongst the students present to explain several personality traits and made the group evaluate the activity thus conveying the various aspects of body language. The students participated very enthusiastically and enjoyed the lectures all the same they were sensitized to the fact that a celebrity is not merely a celebrity because of his luck ..but is a celebrity because if the care taken for both physical fitness and impressive body language. Dr. Archana Mankad concluded the forum thanking all specially the Honorable Vice Chancellor, Dr. M.N.Patel for his continuous presence and inspirational words of wisdom. The event witnessed participation of post graduate students, research scholars, women scientists, faculty and invited guests from Botany-Bioinformatics-Climate Change Impacts Management and Computer Science departments.

Inaugurating the Forum Welcoming Hon. Vice Chancellor Dr. M. N. Patel

Dr. Rajan Dalal Ms. Sonia Shah

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Activity in progress August dignitaries in the audience

The students of the department participated in All India Essay Writing Event 2014 organized by the Shri Ram Chandra Mission [SRCM] in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre for India and Bhutan [UNIC] and Ms. Urvi Gupta, and Mr. Rohan Thakkar, Research Scholars of the department won the first prize while Ms. Dipika Dalal, Sem II Botany won the second prize. Ms. Dipika Dalal also won the second prize in the Poster making - painting competition on 30th January organized on the theme of Cleanliness and Mahatma Gandhi to mark the Gandhi Nirvana din. The participation of almost all the students on the lawns behind Physics department was appreciated and documented for its inclusion in the Limca Book of records. The research Scholars of department participated in a National Conference at Goa. Ms. Shirin Qureshi won the second prize during oral presentation during the conference. Her presentation on the Oil Palm cultivation and its threat to biodiversity was appreciated by all.

The staff and students participated in a BRAINSTORMING on Climate change and environmental impacts Jointly organized by S. C. Pandeya Ecological Research Foundation (SPERF) and Gujarat University Botanical Society (GUBS) on Monday 2nd February-2015. The event was a celebration of the Annual function of SPERF in the form of S C Pandeya Memorial Lecture which was delivered by Dr.V.K.Agarwal, Retd Group Director, SAC-ISRO, Ahmedabad. Dr. Archana Mankad welcomed the guests while Dr. Anjali Bhauguna, Director, S.C.Pandeya Ecological Research Foundation (SPERF) gave a brief introduction of SPERF, its vision-mission and activities. SPERF has announced Young Ecologist Award for outstanding research in ecology by any researcher. Dr. Agarwal very lucidly highlighted the magnanimity of the impact climate change can result in. This kind of sensitization is infact urgently required for all of us in one way or the other. After the lecture there was a short film making competition for students of Department of Climate Change Impacts Management .The students showcased their short films produced by them on environment and related issues and best two were given cash prizes by SPERF. The event was well participated by the staff and students from Environmental Science department, Life Science department and Biochemistry department. The participants enjoyed yummy refreshments sponsored by SPERF.

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Inaugurating the Brainstorming session Dr.Anjali Bahuguna –About SPERF

Dr.V.K.Agarwal First Prize: Ms.Bhoomi Patel Second Prize: Mr.Zarnesh Kanojia

The National Seminar Integrating Climate, Energy Transformations and Youth (ICE TRAY 2015) was organized in February 2015.The event was sponsored by GUJCOST and GEDA .The inauguration of the seminar was done by Prof.S.R.Dave, Director- University School of Sciences. Dr. Gopichandran from Vigyan Prasar, New Delhi was the keynote speaker. After a quick registration and tea break the technical sessions started. There were invited speakers from Government, Academic fraternity as well as from Industry. The experts from GEDA , Shri A K Chauhan illustrated the significance of alternative energy as against fossil fuels for large scale commercial utilization and for a better environment. GEDA had also parked their energy van which demonstrated energy conservation through modification of our environment. Mr. Bharat Patel, from Dynamic consultants made a very informative presentation on energy audit. Mr. Japen Gor explained the need for energy transformations in a sustainable manner. Mr. Snehal Desai from Adani Industries gave the industry’s perspective and challenges therein. The evening witnessed an effective panel discussion by Mr. Shwetal Shah, Technical Advisor from Climate Change department, Government of Gujarat. The second day began with Presentation by Mr. Ajay Shah from Drushta Energy Consultants which was followed by a very effective interactive session by Dr. Bharat Patel, Bharat Biogas. Dr. Patel sensitized the gathering towards the dynamics of biogas –its production and utilization. There was also a presentation from Suzlon Industry by Ms.Minati Patel, highlighting the evolution of wind farms and economizing the energy transformation using wind energy. The participants also made nice oral and poster presentations before lunch. Mr. Manoj Banerjee from Oreva Industry and Mr. Varun Yadav from Integrated Consulting and Engineering Services effectively presented the significance of energy efficiency in

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construction activities. The valedictory function was organized and cash prizes and certificates were given to the winners.

ICETRAY 2015

Dr. Megha Bhatt anchoring Welcoming Prof S.R.Dave Welcoming Dr.Gopichandran

Prof.S.R.Dave Dr.Gopichandran Shri A.K.Chauhan Blessing the event Keynote address GEDA

Energy Van Mr.Bharat Patel-Dynamic Consultants Mr.Japen Gor

Shri Snehal Desai-Adani Shri Shwetal Shah- Climate Change Department, GOG

Shri Ajay Shah Bharat Patel Ms.Minati Patel-Suzlon Drushta Consultants Samved Hospital

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Presentations Oral Presentations Oral Presentations

Poster Presentations Poster Presentations Poster Presentations

Mr.Manoj Banerjee-Oreva Mr. Anand Singh-Utilaider Mr.Varun Yadav- ICES-EE

Prize Distribution Prize Distribution Team ICETRAY 2015

A workshop on Mahila Suraksha was conducted by Women Development Cell, Gujarat University at Department of Botany Auditorium on 26th February-2015. The aim of this workshop was to spread awareness about the rights of women, law relating to safety and security of women, to prevent crime against women and also provide them with fear less environment. This workshop was organized with the support of NGO Life Skill Foundation, partner with Police Suraksha Setu as one of the steps towards protecting women. About 200 students and Faculty members from various departments participated in the interactive sessions during the workshop.

Prof. Savita Gandhi, Chairperson WDC, Head Computer Science department introduced the workshop and welcomed the guest, Mr. John from Life Skill foundation. The First session

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was conducted by Mr. Ujjwal Jaiswal, and it was an interactive session in which he demonstrated various techniques for self-defense in case of attacks. He talked about four main pillars of self-defense viz. courage, presence of mind, muscular strength and defense skills which are necessary in order to respond to a sudden attack. He also showed some vital points of the offender like eyes, nose, back skull etc., which should be targeted in case of sudden attack. He pointed out importance of fitness and exercise to retain the strength of the body. He made an effective demonstration of simple fitness exercises and defense techniques.

In the second session, Mr. John provided an detailed information regarding laws under various IPC sections for the protection of women like laws against Sexual harassment at workplace, Domestic violence and POCSO, a special law for protection of children from Sexual harassment. He also provided the guidelines regarding what activities come under workplace harassment and what things should be kept in mind while filing a complaint. Mr. John encouraged the audience to register in 1091, a helpline number provided under Police Heart initiative which can be called in case of emergency.

The workshop was attended by more than 200 participants from various PG departments. Both boys and girls enthusiastically learned the essentials of fitness and self-defense. Dr. Jyoti Pareek, Computer Science department, delivered a formal vote of thanks to the guests. In all the workshop focused on awareness of self-defense and legal literacy among women but at the same time also stressed on the fact that women need to be cautious so as to prevent situations, which can make them vulnerable to attackers.

Prof.Savita Gandhi- About the workshop Welcoming the guest

Self defense training in progress Mr.Ujjwal demonstrating self defense

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Mr.Ujjwal teaching martial arts Participants of the workshop

Mr.John discussing legal issues Dr.Jyoti Pareek delivering Vote of thanks

A one-day seminar on Molecular Modeling & Medicinal Chemistry was organized by

Applied Botany Centre (ABC), Department of Botany, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad on

21st March 2015. The seminar was supported by Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission

(GSBTM), Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST) and Gujarat University.

The chief guest for the seminar was Shri S. N. Tyagi, IFS, Mission Director, Gujarat State

Biotechnology Mission (GSBTM). The organizing secretaries were Mr. Saumya K. Patel and

Mr. S. Prasanth Kumar. All the research scholars and students also helped for the seminar as

committee members. The Master of ceremonies was Dr. Megha Bhatt, Climate Change and

Impacts Management. The day started with registration / kit distribution, which was

sponsored by Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission (GSBTM) and refreshments for all the

guests and students. About 150 participants attended the seminar from many institutes and

universities of Gujarat.

Registration Desk Morning Tea

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The inauguration ceremony included University song of Gujarat University, Lightening of

the lamp and welcome of the guests with flowers and momentum. Dr. A. U. Mankad,

Convener, delivered an introductory speech and welcomed all the speakers as well as

honourable guest and all the participants on behalf of department. She also explained the

objective of the seminar. Shri S. N. Tyagi and Prof. M. V. Rao blessed all the people through

speech and shared their experience and all the consequences in the field.

Inauguration: Lighting the lamp Welcome by Dr. A. U. Mankad, Convener

Shri S. N. Tyagi IFS Prof. M. V. Rao, Director USSC

The key note speech was delivered by Dr. Evans C. Coutinho, Professor and Head,

Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Bombay College of Pharmacy, Mumbai. His topic

was “The Molecular Modeling Landscape”. He explained the importance of Molecular

Modeling to calculate variety of properties of molecule and to model non-existing molecule.

Also described the various phase of drug discovery. He explained the power tools of

modeling with an example: (i) Quantum Mechanical Calculations for the activity of molecule

and how two molecules will interact with each other, (ii) Molecular Mechanics used for large

macromolecules, which ignores electronic motion and calculates the energy of a system at

nuclear position. Secondly Hybrid QM/MM approaches to model large biomolecules, the

logical approach es to combine the two techniques to use a QM method for the chemically

active region such as substrates and co-factors in an enzymatic reaction and an MM treatment

for the surroundings such as protein and solvent. (iii) Computer Simulations to study systems

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and predict their properties through small replications of the macroscopic systems, Molecular

Dynamics (MD) Simulations used to study the state of the system at any future time and

describes how the dynamic variables change with time. (iv) Pharmacophores refers to a set of

features that is common to a series of active molecules, wherease 3D-pharmacophore

specifies the spatial relationship between these groups-distances, angles, planes etc. (v)

Structure based Drug Design is a de novo design in which the 3D structure of the receptor or

the 3D-pharmacophore is used to design new drugs. (vi) Fragment based Drug Design to find

small molecules which will bind to specific but different regions of a proteins binding site.

(vii) Docking to predict the structures of complexes formed between two molecules such as

ligand-protein, protein-protein or protein-DNA. In this, protein-protein docking is more

difficult than protein-ligand docking. (viii) QSAR used to find consistent relationship

between biological activity and molecular properties of a molecular system. He suggested

that first to try 2D-QSAR and than 3D-QSAR. (ix) Protein Modeling used to predict the

structure of protein through ab initio, fold recognition and homology modeling method.

Key Notes by Dr. Evans C. Coutinho

The first invited speaker was Dr. Sairam Kalapatapu, Manager-CADD, Sun Pharma

Advanced Research Company Ltd., Vadodara, Gujarat. He took up a case study “Targeted

kinase inhibitors – A structure based perspective”. In these, he explained Chronic Myeloid

Leukemia (CML) is a type of Leukemia which is a bone marrow stem cell disorder in which

a proliferation of mature granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils) and their

precursors is found. Also analysed that in Western countries it accounts for 15- 20% of all

adult leukemia and 14% of leukemia overall. CML is now largely treated with targeted drugs

called tryrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) which shows long-term survival rates since first such

agent in 2001. This shows a good quality of life when compared to the former chemotherapy

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drugs. It was first cancer linked to a clear genetic abnormality discovered and described in

1960 by two scientists from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA in which two chromosomes

breaks down and fused each other. Part of bcr gene from chromosome 22 is fused with the abl

gene on chromosome 9, these abnormal fusion gene generates a protein of p210 or sometimes

p185. Thus, the study of BCR-ABL signaling is also necessary to understand their function.

The structure of BCR-ABL contains hinge region between N-lobe and C-lobe. The approved

inhibitors for kinase target are Imatinib, Dasatinib, Nilotinib, Bosutinib and Ponatinib.

Imatinib first generation inhibitor, Dastinib type1 inhibitor and Nilotinib type 2 inhibitor

interact BCR-ABL at hinge region with this he explained the medicinal chemistry of BCR-

ABL inhibitors. He also discussed that how Ponatinib binds properly to WT and mutated

BCR-ABL than Imatinib. He concluded that targeted kinase inhibitor designing the

understanding of disease pathophysiology, signaling networks are important key points. With

advances in structure based technologies, the understanding of detailed protein-ligand co-

crystal structures and molecular level understanding of disease and drug resistance can be

done. Thus, simple modeling techniques can give valuable details about target perturbations.

Dr. Sairam Kalapatapu

With the end of this session lunch was arranged and made it an interactive time for all the

students if they have any query related to the above sessions. With the end of lunch time

posters were arranged for the poster session categorized into three levels (i) B. Sc / M. Sc, (ii)

M. Phil / Ph.D. Scholars and (iii) Faculty / Industry, the session was judged by Dr. Rakesh M.

Rawal, Head, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Gujarat Cancer and

Research Institute, Ahmedabad, Dr. Kaid Johar S. R., Head, Research Division, Iladevi

Cataract and Research Institute, Ahmedabad and Dr. Prakash C. Jha Assistant Professor &

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Coordinator for Centre for Applied Chemistry, School of Chemical Sciences, Central

University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar.

Lunch Poster session

After completing poster session, the second session was started with invited speaker Dr.

Prakash C. Jha Assistant Professor & Coordinator for Centre for Applied Chemistry, School

of Chemical Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar. He started his session

with two interesting videos named “Chemical Party” and “The Computational Chemistry

Movies” which was like quick refreshment for the students. After that he delivered a lecture

on “Computer modeling approach to medicinal chemistry” in which he addressed molecular

modeling as a computer game. In these he compares wet lab experiment with computer based

experiments at every aspect. He also explained the percent distribution of the gene families

targeted by FDA- approved drugs and number of publications of drug designing and

molecular modeling, which was lesser in between 2010-2012. He gave a broad idea about

using QSAR as employing descriptors derived from the three dimensional molecular

structure are frequently applied for property prediction in various fields of research. And

further explained that QSAR approach assumes that a macroscopic property of a chemical

compound depends on one or more distinct molecular features, called descriptors, which are

deduced from the molecular topology or geometry. This can be distinguished according to the

level of detail in the representation of the molecular structure required to evaluate the

descriptor. He discussed some of the studies like QSAR study for skin sensitization, QSAR

contemplation of o-Aminophenol-N-Benzylidene and o-Anisidene-N-Benzylidene for pure

Aluminium in 1M HCl at different concentrations, study of chloro derivatives of N-

(4methoxybezylidene) anilines corrosion inhibitors for zinc in hydrochloric acid, study of

tylophorine derivatives as efficacious in antimalarial drug design and developed QSAR

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Models completely based on QM descriptors and compared with all earlier models. Further

explained statistical significance of model between predicted and experimental values done

by him. Also discussed the role of hydrophobicity in gene therapy, antivermicidal activity of

Imidazolium based Ionic Liquids and a receptor (protein) - based approach to predict

probable protein targets with a small molecule of interest. At the end explained the enthalpy−

entropy compensations severely hamper the thermodynamic interpretation of protein−ligand

interactions at a molecular level.

Dr Prakash Jha

Focussed Discussion session was also held with Dr. Rakesh M. Rawal, Dr. Kaid Johar S. R.

and Dr. Prakash C. Jha for all the students for any kind of queries. The topics/queries which

were discussed are as:

(i) Different docking softwares available which depends on the type of molecules

which were going to dock.

(ii) Novel targets for H1N1 which depends on work analysis which is going to be

performed.

(iii) Specific QSAR method for phytochemicals, which depends on their toxicity and

that too have some of the limitations.

(iv) Both computational and in vitro result could be different, thus improvement in

either method can be done as per the requirements.

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Focused Discussion

Like these many discussion were done and after that we welcomed Dr. M. N. Patel, Vice-

Chancellor, Gujarat University for Valedictory Session. He blessed us with his best wishes

and distributed the prizes to the winners as 1st, 2nd and 3rd position in each category. With this

the seminar was concluded .The participants received certificates and enjoyed a cup of tea.

Dr. M. N. Patel, Hon. Prize Distribution during Vice Chancellor, Gujarat University Valedictory Session

Evening Tea Group Photograph - Team M 3 C 2015

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The annual function of Gujarat University Botanical Society was arranged on 18th April 2015. Dr.Jagdish Joshi, Director-Academic Staff College now known as Human Resource Development Center was the Chief Guest. The function witnessed Prize distribution to winners at various events throughout the year .This year the prestigious GOLDEN PETAL AWARDS were awarded to meritorious students by Dr. Jagdish Joshi. The awardees were:GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN CREATIVITY to Mr.CHIRAG PATEL,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MANAGEMENT to Ms.RUBY PATEL,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP to Ms. SHAYONI SHETH,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN PHOTOGRAPHY to Mr. UMERFARUQ QURESHIMATVA,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENTOONS to Ms.CHARVI PANDYA,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT to Mr. MEHUL SONI,Mr.FULCHAND GAVIT ,Ms. CHARVI PANDYA ,Ms. NEHA JHA, Ms. CHETNA PATIL, Mr.PATHIK BHATT, Ms. TANUSHREE BANERJEE, Mr.DHARMESH JAISWAL,Mr.SAUMYA PATEL ,Ms.SHIRIN QURESHI, Mr. UMERFARUQQURESHIMATVA,Ms.NIRALI THAKKER, Mr. CHIRAG PATEL, Ms.SHILPA SHETTY , Mr.ZARNESH KANOJIA and Ms.BHOOMI PATEL ,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT to Mr. S.PRASANTH KUMAR, Ms.URVI GUPTA, Mr.ROHAN THAKKER, Ms.DIPIKA DALAL and Ms.SHIRIN QURESHI, GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR STUDENT OF THE YEAR to Mr.FULESH KOKNI,GOLDEN PETAL AWARD FOR RESEARCHER OF THE YEAR to Mr.SAUMYA PATEL.The Chief Guest, Dr. Jagdish Joshi blessed the students with his words of wisdom. The annual function was concomitant with the farewell of the outgoing students. Everyone enjoyed yummy snacks and cold drinks at the end of the function.

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LESSONS FROM NATURE

Dr. Archana Mankad

One thing that I feel all plants convey to us in their own special and unique way is to NEVER GIVE UP…

so what if we pollute their environs..

so what if we create an extremely stressful growing condition..

so what if they are chopped down to pieces..

they still grow..

somewhere they still flower and produce fruits..

they still pass on their beautiful legacy to their seeds..

they still entice us to use them ..

they still illustrate that whatever they are..

they are worthy of being utilized in a purposeful manner..

and they teach us all this.

No one is perfect..

there is no need to try to be one..but let us try to be what we are supposed to be..

let us illustrate that inspite of anything and everything that happens in our lives, we are capable of survival.. not merely for the sake of survival but we can also make a mark..

OUR OWN UNIQUE MARK.