Research News

The Office of the Dean-Research and IPR Cell at SRM University-AP hosted a highly impactful 3-day Workshop on “Research Commercialisation.” The workshop was graced by industry expert Mr Rakesh Sharma, a leading figure in business restructuring and global marketing. Mr Sharma with his notable experience of 38 years at Philips, imparted valuable insights on innovation, venture development, and commercialisation.

The workshop was attended by faculty and research scholars, all keen on understanding the intricacies of research commercialisation. The inaugural ceremony of the workshop was highlighted by the felicitation of Mr Sharma by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora, along with Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean—Research; Deans of the three schools; Prof. G S Vinodkumar, Coordinator—IPR Cell & Convenor of this workshop; and other senior faculty members.

In his address, Prof. Manoj K Arora underscored the critical role of research, he urged the attendees to “think differently and change your mindset to unlock the boundless potential of your research and innovation.” He engaged with faculty and research scholars, seeking their perspectives. Prof. Ranjith Thapa, the Dean of Research, presented an overview of the varsity’s research capabilities, spotlighting its achievements in Q1 publications and patents across different departments.

Day 1– The workshop kicked off with Mr Sharma encouraging participants to voice their queries and concerns about commercialisation. Key discussion points covered included linking university research with practical applications, the transformation of patents and research into industry-ready products, understanding market needs, fundraising for research projects, and leveraging humanities and liberal arts in patent implementation. Mr Sharma engaged with each of the queries and closely explained to the students with simple and easy-to-understand examples, thereby making the session worthwhile and interesting.

Day 2—Scholars had the opportunity to present their published and granted patents. They received constructive feedback from faculty and Mr Sharma and understood how these patents could be further developed for commercialisation, thereby leading to fruitful discussions on improving and materialising these ideas.

Day 3– A significant outcome of the workshop was the proposal to establish a new centre for research commercialisation designed to offer students an in-house pathway to commercialise their patents. This initiative received widespread acclaim from all participants and sparked engaging discussions about transforming research into viable business ventures, facilitated by the session by the Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Mr Sidharth Shankar Tripathy.

The workshop offered a crucial platform for students, offering both inspiration and guidance in their pursuit of entrepreneurship. The event was specifically designed for all PhD Scholars who are currently working on their research papers and looking for ways to commercialise their innovative ideas, projects, or inventions.

Through a series of expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities, students were encouraged to think critically about their project’s potential impact, market readiness, and the pathways to achieving sustainable business growth.

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In a significant development for the field of artificial intelligence and sustainable technologies, Dr Subhankar Ghatak, Dr Aurobindo Behera, Assistant Professor, and Ms Samah Maaheen Sayyad, an undergraduate student from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, have collectively filed a patent for an “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Enabled Refrigeration System.” The patent, bearing the Application Number 202441036548, has been officially published in the Patent Office Journal, marking a milestone in their academic and research careers.
This innovative refrigeration system promises to enhance efficiency and reduce energy consumption, potentially revolutionising the way we preserve food and other perishables. The team’s dedication to integrating AI into practical applications is a testament to their commitment to advancing technology for the betterment of society. The academic community and industry experts alike are eagerly anticipating further details on the implementation and impact of this patented technology.

Abstract
The invention is an advanced smart and AI-enabled refrigerator that seamlessly integrates device and software components. Key features include automatic quantity detection, a reminder system, a spoiler alert system, an inbuilt voice system, an inbuilt barcode scanner, an emotion detection system, and a personalised recipe recommendation system based on user preferences, weather conditions, season, location, and precise quantity measurements.

Research in Layperson’s Terms
The invention represents a groundbreaking improvement in traditional refrigerators, providing a new and enriched user experience through AI integration. It addresses food management, user interaction, and personalised recipe recommendations, incorporating user preferences, weather considerations, seasonal variations, location-specific nuances, and accurate quantity measurements.

Practical implementation and the social implications associated with it

The practical implementation of the “AN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) ENABLED REFRIGERATION SYSTEM ” involves the seamless integration of advanced hardware and sophisticated AI algorithms to create an intelligent and user-friendly refrigerator. The following steps outline the practical implementation:

Hardware Integration:
Sensors: Install advanced sensors, including thermistors for temperature, humidity sensors, barcode scanners, ultrasonic quantity measurement sensors, cameras, spoilage identification sensors, level sensors, defrost sensors, and weight sensors within the refrigerator compartments.
Voice and Emotion Detection Modules: Incorporate a microphone and speaker system for voice interaction and integrate cameras and emotion analysis algorithms for facial recognition and emotion detection.
Connectivity Components: Equip the refrigerator with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth modules to enable seamless data transfer and communication with other smart devices.
Processor and Memory: Utilize a powerful processor and ample memory to support AI algorithms, data processing, and smooth operation.
Display Panel: Implement an LED or touchscreen display for user interaction, providing real-time information and control over the refrigerator’s functionalities.

Software Development:
AI Algorithms: Develop and integrate AI algorithms for automatic quantity detection using computer vision, sentiment analysis for emotion detection, and collaborative filtering for personalised recipe recommendations.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): Implement NLP algorithms to enable the inbuilt voice system to understand and respond to user commands effectively.
Image Recognition Software: Utilize image recognition software to accurately read barcodes and analyse visual data from the integrated cameras.
Connectivity Software: Develop software protocols to ensure reliable wireless communication between the refrigerator and other devices or cloud services.
User Interface Software: Design a user-friendly interface for the display panel, allowing users to interact with and manage refrigerator contents easily.

Social Implications:
The “AI Enabled Refrigeration System” invention has several profound social implications:

1. Reduction in Food Wastage: The automatic quantity detection, reminder system, and spoilage alert system significantly reduce food wastage by ensuring that users are alerted about unused items and potential spoilage. This contributes to more efficient food management and a reduction in household food waste, addressing a critical global issue.

2. Enhanced Food Safety and Health: By providing real-time alerts about food spoilage and precise quantity measurements, the invention ensures that users consume fresh and safe food. This minimizes health risks associated with consuming spoiled food and promotes overall well-being.

3. Personalized Dietary Support: The personalized recipe recommendation system caters to individual dietary preferences and requirements, promoting healthier eating habits. By suggesting recipes based on user preferences, weather conditions, seasonality, and location, the system encourages balanced and nutritious meal planning.

4. Convenience and Efficiency: The inbuilt voice system, emotion detection, and intuitive user interface enhance the convenience and efficiency of managing refrigerator contents. Users can easily access information, receive reminders, and interact with the refrigerator, making food storage and preparation more streamlined.

5. Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced AI technologies in everyday appliances like refrigerators represents a significant step forward in smart home innovation. This can drive further advancements in the field, encouraging the development of more intelligent and interconnected household devices.

6. Environmental Impact: By promoting efficient food management and reducing wastage, the invention indirectly contributes to environmental sustainability. Less food waste translates to lower carbon footprints and reduced strain on food production resources, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

Overall, the “AI Enabled Refrigeration System” invention not only offers practical benefits in terms of food management and user convenience but also holds significant social implications by promoting health, reducing waste, and advancing technological innovation in household appliances.

Future Research Plans

Building on the innovative foundation of the “AN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) ENABLED REFRIGERATION SYSTEM, ” future research plans involve enhancing the AI algorithms for even greater accuracy in food quantity detection, spoilage prediction and personalised recipe recommendations. This includes exploring more advanced machine learning techniques and incorporating real-time feedback mechanisms to continuously refine the system’s performance. Additionally, research will focus on integrating the refrigerator with broader smart home ecosystems, allowing for seamless interaction with other smart appliances and IoT devices to create a fully connected kitchen experience. Investigations into more sustainable and energy-efficient sensor technologies will also be pursued to further reduce the environmental footprint of the device. Finally, extensive user studies will be conducted to gather feedback and insights, ensuring that the next iterations of the refrigerator are even more aligned with consumer needs and preferences, ultimately driving widespread adoption and maximising the social benefits of this technology.

Pictures Related to the Research

Fig 1: Schematic Arrangement of various Components for adequate operation of the proposed scheme

Fig 2: Schematic Arrangement of various Components for user interaction

Fig 3: Schematic representation of working of various components in the freezer system

 

• Pointer Number-27: Spoilage Detection Sensor (19) detects the item that is being spoiled and maps to particular item for alerting the user with the help of the capturing Device (01) and the info associated with that particular item like Expiry date etc.
• Pointer Number-28: The Ultra Sonic Quantity Measurement Sensor (06) senses the quantity of the ITEM “x” (24), and the camera (01) is used to identify what is ITEM “x” through (23).
• Pointer Number-29: Weight Sensor (07), using newly captured item ITEM “x” (24) by capturing device (01), identifies the weight of that item by subtracting the weight obtained after the addition of that item with the initial holding by the cabinet and attaching the value with corresponding ITEM “x” (24).
• Pointer Number-30: Barcode Scanner (12) scans the Barcode associated with the item and maps the corresponding information with that particular item with the help of the capturing device (01).
• Port Number-31: Mobile Application.

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In a significant academic achievement, Dr Vimal Babu, Associate Professor at the Department of Management, Paari School of Business, and Ms Rukma Ramachandran, a PhD Scholar, have co-authored a book chapter titled “Revolutionizing HR through the Deployment of Blockchain Technology: A Bibliometric Review.” The chapter is included in the book Blockchain and Digital Twin Enabled IoT Networks: Privacy and Security Perspectives, published by Routledge: A Taylor and Francis Group.
The research work delves into the potential of blockchain technology in transforming Human Resources practices, offering a bibliometric review to shed light on the impact and future possibilities within the field.

The publication adds valuable insights to the growing discourse on blockchain applications in various industries, particularly focusing on HR management. This collaborative effort between Dr Vimal Babu and Ms Rukma Ramachandran highlights their dedication to exploring innovative solutions at the intersection of technology and management. Their contribution to the book aims to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on privacy, security, and efficiency in IoT networks, with blockchain technology playing a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape.
The chapter’s publication signifies a notable milestone in the academic pursuits of both scholars, solidifying their expertise and thought leadership in the realm of blockchain technology and its implications for HR practices. Their contribution is expected to resonate with professionals, researchers, and students interested in the evolving dynamics of digital innovation and its impact on organisational processes.

Brief Introduction of the Book Chapter
The adoption and implementation of Blockchain in Management have been gaining increasing attention. The rise in the number of studies on Blockchain in managerial applications invites a greater number of research contributions in this field. This chapter describes the gap in the present studies using a hybrid review system through the means of systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis.

Publication details (incl. Publisher, ISBN, Launch date, Edition, etc)
Publisher- Taylor & Francis
ISBN- 9781003403791
Launch date- 19 July 2024
Edition- 1st

Target Audience of the Book Chapter
This book emphasizes and facilitates a greater understanding of various data security privacy approaches using the advances in Blockchain and data analysis using machine/deep learning, federated learning, edge computing and the countermeasures to overcome these vulnerabilities.

Link to the Book Chapter
Blockchain and Digital Twin Enabled IoT Networks | Privacy and Securit (taylorfrancis.com)

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In a significant contribution to the academic discourse on corporate frauds and investment behaviour, Dr A Lakshmana Rao, Head of the Department and Associate Professor in the Department of Commerce, has published an insightful book chapter titled “Perception of Investment Behaviour in the Light of Corporate Frauds with Special Reference to India,” the chapter is a part of the book “Cybersecurity, Law and Economics: The Case of India,” published by Routledge, a prestigious Taylor and Francis Group.
Dr Rao’s work delves into the intricate dynamics of investor psychology and market trust, particularly in the aftermath of corporate scandals. His research provides a nuanced understanding of how investors navigate the complex landscape of financial decision-making when confronted with corporate malfeasance.

The chapter is poised to serve as a valuable resource for students, academics, and professionals interested in the intersections of finance, law, and cybersecurity. It also underscores the importance of robust legal frameworks and transparent corporate governance in maintaining investor confidence in the Indian market. With this publication, Dr Rao has made a notable contribution to the literature on economic security and investment strategies, offering a timely examination of the challenges and considerations unique to the Indian context.

A Brief Introduction of the Book Chapter

This book examines the intersection between cybersecurity and India’s law and economy and offers a course of action for designing efficacious policies against emerging cybercrimes in the country.
It reviews the boom in infrastructure growth in India and the security challenges this presents to the domestic economy and legal system. Contributors conduct a risk assessment of the potential economic impacts and security vulnerabilities, as well as identify the current regulatory and legal gaps regarding cryptocurrency, e-commerce and digital banking. The book also considers the subject of data localisation and sovereignty, and the challenges of establishing an indigenous data architecture. By discussing the economic impact of cybersecurity and incorporating recommendations from scholars, activists, academics, young legal intellectuals, and professionals in the field, the chapters propose new measures and protections for lawmakers and policymakers to adopt.

Significance of the Book Chapter

The book chapter titled “Perception of Investment Behaviour in the Light of Corporate Frauds with Special Reference to India” is a survey-based study that examines the general investor’s intentions regarding their investment behaviour in various investment options and their behavioural changes in the case of corporate frauds.

Co-authors of the Book Chapter

Two co-authors, Dr G Ramakrishnan and Dr Nikhil Kulshrestha, helped conduct the research and survey.

Link to the Book Chapter publication

Publication Details (incl. Publisher, ISBN, Launch date, Edition, etc)
ISBN 9781032852454
232 Pages 8 B/W Illustrations
October 1, 2024, by Routledge
Price: £ 135

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In a significant advancement for aquaculture technology, Dr K A Sunitha, Associate Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, along with her B.Tech ECE students Ms B Harshitha and Mr B Taraka Rameswara Kanaka Durga Prasad, have made headlines with their latest invention. The team has successfully filed and published a patent for “A Fully Automated System for Real-Time Monitoring of Aquaculture Environment and a Method Thereof.” The application number 202441034671, has been officially recorded in the Patent Office Journal, marking a milestone for the team and the institution they represent.
This pioneering system promises to revolutionise the way aquaculture environments are monitored by leveraging automation to ensure real-time, accurate assessments. The invention stands as a testament to the innovative spirit and dedication of Dr Sunitha and her students, who are now recognised as contributors to the technological advancements in the field of aquaculture.

Abstract

This project involves the design and development of an Automated water quality analysis system to assist aquaculture farmers. The proposed system is tailored for aquatic environments, particularly ponds to monitor crucial parameters say Dissolved Oxygen (DO), PH, Temperature and Humidity levels, signaling when concentrations drop below the predefined threshold set by the user every thirty minutes. The system features autonomous activation and deactivation of aerators to ensure continual oxygenation of water and aids in energy optimisation. Utilising advanced sensors and a microcontroller, the device offers continuous monitoring of parameters to facilitate pond operators with timely insights into water quality dynamics, enabling proactive interventions to protect aquatic ecosystems.

Brief Explanation of the Project

India is the second-largest aquaculture nation in the world, and this sector provides livelihood support to about 280 lakh people. The aquaculture industry globally faces numerous challenges, such as Viral, bacterial, and fungal diseases and Suboptimal water quality. One crucial criterion for evaluating the quality of water is measuring the Dissolved Oxygen level. Water and other liquids contain free, non-compound oxygen, which is measured as dissolved oxygen (DO).

Long-term exposure to low DO levels increases stress and infections and, in certain situations, causes the death of the organism because dissolved oxygen is essential for the health and reproduction of many fish and invertebrates. This project highlights the design of a timer based automated water quality analysis system which can be used in the inland aquaculture farms to continuously monitor the water parameters and automate the calibration process and the operation of aerators without human intervention.

Practical Implications of the Research
The main objectives of this research are
1) To monitor the parameters, say Dissolved Oxygen, PH, Temperature and Humidity levels
every thirty minutes.
2) To automate the Calibration process to maintain accuracy and reliability of the system.
3) To automatically turn ON/OFF the aerators in the event of Low/High oxygen levels detection in the pond.
4) To send notifications to the technician or farmer every thirty minutes to help them monitor.

Future Research Plans

The developed prototype is currently validated with standard DO meter during experimental trials. Moving forward, further research and development efforts may focus on refining the system’s functionality, expanding its sensor capabilities, and integrating advanced analytics for predictive monitoring and decision support, thereby advancing the state-of-the-art in aquaculture management technology and promoting the long-term viability of inland aquaculture operations.

Pictures Related to Research

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Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is revolutionizing how we make metal components, especially when it comes to materials like 304L austenitic stainless steel—a popular choice in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare due to its durability and corrosion resistance. The research paper titled “Microstructural Characteristics and Properties of Wire Arc Additive Manufactured 304L Austenitic Stainless Steel Cylindrical Components by Different Arc Welding Processes” published by Dr Maheswar Dwivedy, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering and his post-doctoral scholar Dr B Prasanna Nagasai explores this innovative manufacturing method in detail, focusing on how different welding techniques affect the end product.

Overall, this research indicates that WAAM, with its different welding techniques, can produce 304L stainless steel cylinders that potentially outperform those made by conventional forging, both in terms of material efficiency and mechanical properties. Such findings are significant as they point towards more sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing methods that do not sacrifice quality.

Abstract

Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) is an advanced additive manufacturing (AM) technology that offers low cost and high deposition rates, making it suitable for building large metal parts for structural engineering applications. However, various welding procedures result in differing heat inputs and repetitive heating treatments throughout the deposition process, which can affect the microstructural and mechanical characteristics of the parts. In the current study, cylindrical parts made of 304L austenitic stainless steel (ASS) were manufactured using the WAAM technique, employing both gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and cold metal transfer (CMT) processes. This study explores the correlation between WAAM techniques and their effects on the bead geometry, microstructure and mechanical properties. The paper presents detailed analyses of the microstructure using techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The research findings suggest that the choice of arc welding process significantly affects the grain size, phase distribution, and defect formation within the 304L stainless steel, thereby influencing the mechanical properties and overall performance of the manufactured components. The WAAM-processed 304L ASS cylinders showed better performance compared to those manufactured using traditional industrial forging standards, indicating that WAAM-processed 304L ASS cylinders are suitable for industrial applications. This comprehensive evaluation provides insights into optimising welding processes for enhanced quality and performance of stainless steel cylindrical parts.

Highlights of the research

• Controlling heterogeneous microstructures in WAAM-processed 304L stainless steel is challenging.
• GMAW vs. CMT impacts on 304L ASS microstructure analysed.
• The upward growth of coarse austenite/ferrite morphologies is controlled by the wire retraction mechanism.
• CMT produced finer dendrites and more ferrite morphologies.
• WAAM 304L ASS components outperformed the wrought 304L ASS and forged 304L ASS.

Practical implementation/Social implications of the research

The practical implementation of Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) for 304L austenitic stainless steel could revolutionise multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical devices, maritime, and energy, by allowing the production of complex, custom, and durable components with greater efficiency and reduced material waste. This shift not only promises economic benefits like cost reduction and job creation in advanced manufacturing sectors but also carries significant environmental advantages by minimising waste and the carbon footprint associated with traditional manufacturing processes. Furthermore, the technology enhances supply chain resilience by enabling local, on-demand production, which could be crucial during global disruptions. Socially, WAAM could increase access to customised medical aids in low-income regions, fostering greater equality. The adoption of WAAM thus holds the potential to impact manufacturing practices profoundly, driving innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity across various sectors.

Collaborations

Dr V Balasubramanian, Professor & Director, Centre for Materials Joining & Research (CEMAJOR), Annamalai University, Tamilnadu.

In the future, the research team plan to focus on developing Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) of nickel and stainless steel using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). This research will aim to leverage the unique properties of each metal to create components with tailored functional performance for demanding applications. Key challenges will include optimising material interfaces, controlling deposition processes, and ensuring structural integrity.

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Dr Chinmoy Das, Assistant Professor at the Department of Chemistry at SRM University-AP, has made an impactful contribution with the publication of his research paper, “Insights into the Mechanochemical Glass Formation of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks” in the prestigious Angewandte Chemie International Edition with an impact factor of 16.6. His paper unveils a rapid, eco-friendly, and efficient mechanochemical approach to transform glasses from their crystalline zeolitic imidazolate frameworks. This pioneering work opens new doors for sustainable and effective glass formation, showcasing the power of innovation in the field of chemistry.

Abstract:

We describe a rapid, ecofriendly, and efficient mechanochemical approach to transform glasses from their crystalline zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs). We exposition mechanochemical technique through which the traditional melt-quench preparation of glassy phases can be replaced. In this study, we explore that Zn(II), Co(II), and Cu(II)- based crystalline ZIFs transformed into the glassy phases within five minutes through the mechanical ball milling technique. The appearance of glass transition temperature(T g ) upon mechanical milling of crystalline states demonstrated by different characterization techniques, such as X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), simultaneous thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses (TG/DTA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray total scattering and its deduced pair distribution functions (PDFs). We characterized the porosity and density of the glassy phases through CO 2 gas sorption techniques which aligned with the observation of thermal, structural, and textural features of the ZIFs after varying ball milling times beyond five minutes.

Practical implementation

We can prepare bulk ZIF glasses within five minutes of the mechanochemical approach that will guide the greater feasibility to produce the glass materials for industrial implications. In addition, the greater the accessibility of glassy materials, the greater the fabrication of glassy materials-based device fabrication.

Collaborations

This article has been published with the collaboration of Prof. Sebastian Henke (Henke Group), Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany.

Future Research Plans

Recently, we established our research group in SRM University-AP, and our group has started to explore an emergent research area of crystal-glass composite materials towards the applications of atmospheric water harvesting, solid-state electrolytes (Alkali and Alkaline metal ions-based), photovoltaics, and conversion of gaseous Carbon-dioxide molecules to industrially relevant liquids, such as methanol or ethanol.

• Figure 1. (A) Single crystal structures of various ZIFs indicated in the figure. (B) Schematic representation of the traditional route to ZIF glass formation (red line) and the mechanochemical vitrification approach followed in this work (blue line). (C) PXRD patterns of the pristine ZIF polycrystalline materials and after five minutes of mechanical ball milling.

 

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Dr Sanjeev Mani Yadav, Assistant Professor from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, has published a cutting-edge research paper titled “Au-Al2O3 Coated Highly Sensitive Broad Range Refractive Index Sensor for Detecting Malaria Disease in Human Blood” in the IEEE Sensors Journal with an impact factor of 4.3. This research focuses on developing a highly sensitive biosensor using photonic crystal fibres and a technique called surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to detect changes in the refractive index, which is how much light bends when it enters a material. This biosensor can also detect malaria in the human body.

Abstract

The paper represents the photonic crystal fibre-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor for broad-range refractive index sensors along with the detection of malaria disease in the human body. α-Al2O3-Au dielectric-metal interface has been proposed to stimulate the free electron on the metal surface via evanescent to result in an SPR phenomenon. The proposed sensor shows a sufficient shift in resonance wavelength for the change in external RI from 1.32 to 1.40 for an optimised Al2O3/Au thickness of 50nm/12nm. The broad-range sensing applicability of the designed sensor shows a maximum sensitivity of 6000 nm/RIU when the external RI changes from 1.38 to 1.40. The detection accuracy of the designed sensor is reported to be 1.66×10-5 (RIU) and reported compatible in comparison to broad RI sensors. The proposed SPR sensor has been utilised to sense the malaria diseases in the human body by filling infected RBC samples on the dielectric-metal surface. The proposed study aids in detecting various stages of malaria-infected RBCs, including the Ring phase, Trophozoite phase, and Schizont phase, by measuring the shift in resonance wavelength. The sensor’s wavelength sensitivity varies across the phases: 5714.28 nm/RIU for the Ring phase, 5263.15 nm/RIU for the Trophozoite phase, and 5931 nm/RIU for the Schizont phase. The sensor exhibits the highest reported sensitivity among other biological sensors in this category. The proposed sensor fulfils all the requirements for a diagnosis of early malaria disease in the human body, along with its high sensitivity, low detection limit, and capability of sensing broad RI.

How does the sensor work?

1. Biosensor Basics: The sensor uses a combination of a special crystal fibre and a metal surface (a mix of aluminium oxide and gold) to create a reaction when light hits it. This reaction is called SPR and it helps in detecting tiny changes.

2. Detecting Changes: When the external refractive index (a measure of how light bends in a substance) changes, the sensor detects this by a shift in the wavelength (colour) of the light. The study found that the sensor is very sensitive to changes in the refractive index between 1.32 and 1.40.

3. Sensitivity: The sensor is incredibly sensitive, with a maximum sensitivity of 6000 nm/RIU (nanometres per refractive index unit). This means it can detect very small changes very accurately.

4. Malaria Detection: The sensor can also detect malaria by analysing infected red blood cells. Different stages of malaria infection (Ring, Trophozoite, and Schizont) cause different shifts in the wavelength, which the sensor can measure. The sensor’s sensitivity varies slightly with each stage but is consistently high.

5. High Performance: This sensor is reported to have the highest sensitivity compared to other similar sensors and meets all the requirements for early malaria diagnosis due to its high sensitivity, low detection limit, and ability to detect a wide range of refractive indices.

In essence, this sensor is a powerful tool for detecting both refractive index changes and malaria in the human body with high accuracy and sensitivity.

Practical implementation/Social implications of the research

The photonic crystal fibre-based SPR biosensor represents a significant advancement in medical diagnostics with wide-ranging practical applications and social implications. Its high sensitivity and accuracy in detecting malaria and potentially other diseases can lead to better health outcomes, economic benefits, and improved access to healthcare, particularly in regions that need it the most.

Dr Sanjeev Mani Yadav acknowledges Dr Amritanshu Pandey, Electronics Engineering Department, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, for his continuous support and guidance throughout this research.

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In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, societies across the globe were pushed into acute constraints, especially in the absence of employment security and consistency. In this regard, Dr Boddu Srujana, Assistant Professor at the Department of Economics through her research paper titled, Women’s Labour Market Outcomes and Contours of Subnationalism: A Comparison Across Four States in India, scrutinises the impact of the pandemic on women’s employment and thereby explores whether these outcomes were uniformly impacted or if they reveal variations attributable to the political dynamics within these states.

Read the exciting excerpt followed by the link to the article, featured in Economic and Political Weekly

Abstract:

Using, the Periodic Labour Force Survey data for 2018–19 and 2020–21, the article explores shifts in women’s employment outcomes pre- and post-pandemic across four Indian states. The article finds that the states with stronger subnational politics fare better in creating quality employment outcomes for women compared to their counterparts, even during times of crisis such as the recent COVID pandemic. This stands true even for women with disadvantaged social, economic and educational backgrounds.

Practical implementation of research and social implications:

The research highlights the effectiveness of governance and emphasizes social policies over time that can create better job opportunities for women, where they can secure against vulnerabilities even during challenging times such as crises. This leads to greater economic independence, reduces poverty, and promotes social equity.

Collaborators:

The research paper is co-authored with Anagha Tobi and Sipoy Sarveswar.

Anagha Tobi is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Mahindra University, Hyderabad. Sipoy Sarveswar is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Anthropology, Vidya Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan.

Future Plans:

As part of her future research projects in this area, Dr Srujana plans on studying the urban informal labour markets, urbanisation, the dynamics of informalisation, the future of work, and the impact of public policy on labour markets. She is eager to extend her work in these areas by engaging in collaborative research while also partnering with academic institutions, policymakers and NGOs, whereby she aims to contribute to the changing world of work and develop actionable insights that can inform policy and practice

Link to the article.
https://www.epw.in/journal/2024/23/perspectives/womens-labour-market-outcomes-and-contours.html

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A dedicated team of researchers and professors have developed an innovative patent titled “System and a Method for Assisting Visually Impaired Individuals” that uses cutting-edge technology to significantly improve the navigation experience for visually impaired individuals, fostering greater independence and safety.

The team, comprising Dr Subhankar Ghatak and Dr Aurobindo Behera, Assistant Professors from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, and students Ms Samah Maaheen Sayyad, Mr Chinneboena Venkat Tharun, and Ms Rishitha Chowdary Gunnam, has designed a system that transforms real-time visual data into vocals via a mobile app. It will utilise wearable cameras, cloud processing, computer vision, and deep learning algorithms. Their solution captures visual information and processes it on the cloud, delivering relevant auditory prompts to users.

Abstract

This patent proposes a novel solution entitled, “System and a method for assisting visually impaired individuals aimed at easing navigation for visually impaired individuals. It integrates cloud technology, computer vision algorithms, and Deep Learning Algorithms to convert real-time visual data into vocal cues delivered through a mobile app. The system
employs wearable cameras to capture visual information, processes it on the cloud, and deliver relevant auditory prompts to aid navigation, enhancing spatial awareness and safety for visually impaired users.

Practical implementation/Social implications of the research

The practical implementation of our research involves several key components. Firstly, we need to develop or optimise wearable camera devices that are comfortable and subtle for visually impaired individuals to wear. These cameras should be capable of capturing high-quality real-time visual data. Secondly, we require a robust cloud infrastructure capable of processing this data quickly and efficiently using advanced computer vision algorithms and Deep Learning Algorithms. Lastly, we need to design and develop a user-friendly mobile application that delivers the processed visual information as vocal cues in real-time. This application should be intuitive, customisable, and accessible to visually impaired users.

The social implications of implementing this research are significant. By providing visually impaired individuals with a reliable and efficient navigation aid, we can greatly enhance their independence and quality of life. Navigating city environments can be challenging and hazardous for the visually impaired, leading to increased dependency and reduced mobility. Our solution aims to mitigate these challenges by empowering users to navigate confidently and autonomously. This fosters a more inclusive society where individuals with visual impairments can participate actively in urban mobility, employment, and social activities.

In the future, we plan to further enhance and refine our technology to better serve the needs of visually impaired individuals. This includes improving the accuracy and reliability of object recognition and scene understanding algorithms to provide more detailed and contextually relevant vocal cues. Additionally, we aim to explore novel sensor technologies and integration methods to expand the capabilities of our system, such as incorporating haptic feedback for enhanced spatial awareness.

Furthermore, we intend to conduct extensive user testing and feedback sessions to iteratively improve the usability and effectiveness of our solution. This user-centric approach will ensure that our technology meets the diverse needs and preferences of visually impaired users in various real-world scenarios.

Moreover, we are committed to collaborating with stakeholders, including advocacy groups, healthcare professionals, and technology companies, to promote the adoption and dissemination of our technology on a larger scale. By fostering partnerships and engaging with the community, we can maximize the positive impact of our research on the lives of visually impaired individuals worldwide.

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