Paper Presented at the NIAS Conference in Amsterdam
Dr Bikku, Assistant Professor, Department of Liberal Arts has presented a paper titled “Mobile Pastoralism and Conservation in the 21st Century: A Case Study from India” at the NIAS Conference on Belonging & Mobility, held at the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS), Amsterdam, Netherlands on October 18-20, 2023 (online).
Congratulations to Dr Bikku for this remarkable achievement. SRM AP immense pride in the success of its faculty and scholars and applauds their unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and societal impact!
Abstract
The study focuses on the struggle of nomadic pastoralists to continue their traditional occupation of raising livestock at different landscapes in the face of the shifting political ecology in India. Pastoralism is a traditional subsistence livelihood pattern that involves raising domestic animals in different pastures. For pastoralists to use continually shifting resources in a variety of ecological landscapes, mobility is an effective strategy. However, the current conservation approach has colonial roots and reinforces biodiversity conservation by establishing and enforcing protected areas in several countries around the globe. Scientific conservationists and states have often seen pastoralism responsible for environmental degradation and wildlife decline through over-grazing and resource competition, respectively. As a result, the customary rights of the various pastoralist groups have been denied inside and outside the protected areas.
The paper investigates the current global conflicts between pastoralism and conservation. It also emphasises the changing dimensions of mobile pastoralism and conservation policies in India. By challenging the conservationists’ and the state’s preconceived notions about pastoralism, the Raika mobile pastoralists of Rajasthan, India, provide sustainable pastoralism and nature conservation through evidence of the coexistence of pastoralism and multispecies.
- Published in Departmental News, Liberal Arts News, News, Research News
Using Nonlinear Differential Equations to Formulate a Novel Approach to Combat HIV-1
The combat against HIV, the virus responsible for AIDS has witnessed consistent advancements and studies put forward by researchers in various fields. To identify a more intelligent and effective approach to combat HIV-1 and enhance the understanding of the workings of its treatments, Dr Koyel Chakravarty, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics has published a paper titled “Mathematical modelling of HIV-1 transcription inhibition: a comparative study between optimal control and impulsive approach” in the Q2 journal, Journal of Computational and Applied Mathematics.
Abstract
By adopting a proactive strategy, this study facilitates the interaction with human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1), successfully navigating its sequential fusion stages. This approach enables efficient infiltration of the virus into a target CD4+T helper cell within the host organism, initiating the virus’s replication cycle. As a retrovirus, HIV-1 orchestrates the conversion of its single-stranded viral RNA genome into a more stable double-stranded DNA structure. The newly formed DNA integrates with the host cell’s genetic material, and the pro-viral DNA transforms into functional messenger RNA (mRNA) with the assistance of the host enzyme RNA polymerase II (Pol II).
The ongoing research focuses on constructing a meticulous mathematical framework using a system of nonlinear differential equations. The investigation aims to assess the impact of a Tat inhibitor on suppressing the transcriptional activity of HIV-1, treating it as an optimal control problem. The study also evaluates the Tat inhibitor’s efficacy as a potential therapeutic intervention for HIV-1 infection. Employing a one-dimensional impulsive differential equation model to determine the mathematically derived maximum concentration of the elongating complex (P2), the research considers the crucial aspect of optimal timing between successive dosages. A comparative analysis contrasts the effects of continuous dosing with impulse dosing of the Tat inhibitor, using numerical analysis to evaluate outcomes. The findings underscore the superior effectiveness of impulsive dosing over continuous dosing in inhibiting HIV-1 transcription. Visual representations of the model’s parameter sensitivities enhance understanding of the intricate physiological and biochemical processes within the system.
Practical implementation/social implications of the research
1. Treatment Optimization:
• Practical Implementation: Develop personalized treatment plans for individuals with HIV-1 based on the optimal control and impulsive approaches identified in the study.
• Social Implication: Improve the effectiveness of HIV-1 treatments, potentially leading to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life for individuals living with the virus.
2. Drug Administration Guidelines:
• Practical Implementation: Provide guidelines for healthcare professionals on the timing and dosage of Tat inhibitors using insights from the comparative study.
• Social Implication: Enhance the efficiency of drug administration, potentially reducing side effects and improving patient adherence to treatment regimens.
3. Public Health Planning:
• Practical Implementation: Incorporate the study’s findings into public health planning, considering the optimal and impulsive control strategies in broader HIV-1 prevention and treatment programs.
• Social Implication: Contribute to more effective and resource-efficient public health interventions, potentially reducing the overall burden of HIV-1 in communities.
4. Drug Development Strategies:
• Practical Implementation: Inform pharmaceutical companies and researchers about the comparative study results to guide the development of new HIV-1 inhibitors or improvements to existing drugs.
• Social Implication: Accelerate the development of more potent and targeted therapies, offering new options for managing HIV-1 infections.
5. Patient Education:
• Practical Implementation: Develop educational materials for individuals with HIV-1, explaining the importance of adherence to optimized treatment plans based on the study’s findings.
• Social Implication: Empower patients to actively participate in their treatment, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes and reduced transmission rates.
6. Policy Recommendations:
• Practical Implementation: Present policy recommendations to healthcare institutions and government agencies based on the study’s outcomes.
• Social Implication: Influence health policies to integrate the most effective strategies for HIV-1 transcription inhibition, potentially contributing to more efficient resource allocation and improved public health outcomes.
7. Global Health Impact:
• Practical Implementation: Collaborate with international health organizations to disseminate the study’s findings globally.
• Social Implication: Contribute to global efforts in controlling the HIV-1 pandemic, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among nations.
8. Reduced Healthcare Costs:
• Practical Implementation: If the impulsive approach proves more cost-effective, healthcare systems can implement this strategy to potentially reduce the overall cost of HIV-1 treatment
• Social Implication: Alleviate financial burdens on both individuals and healthcare systems, making HIV-1 treatment more accessible
In summary, the practical implementation and social implications of this study extend from optimizing individual treatment plans to influencing global health policies, ultimately contributing to more effective HIV-1 management and improved public health outcomes.
Collaborations
- Prof. D C Dalal, Professor, Department of Mathematics, IIT Guwahati
- Prof. A K Sarkar, Professor, Centre for Mathematical Biology and Ecology, Department of Mathematics, Jadavpur University
- Dr L N Guin, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics, Visva-Bharati
Future Prospects of the Research
- Mathematical Modelling of Cholesterol Dynamics.
- Mathematical Modelling of Muscle Regeneration.
- Mathematical Modelling of Bone Remodelling
- Mathematical Modelling of Glucose-Insulin Dynamics.
- Mathematical Modelling on HIV-1 Transcription.
- Mathematical Modelling of Population Dynamics for Patients suffering from Diabetes.
- Published in Departmental News, Math News, News, Research News
Intellectual realm of Vaishnava Philosophy and Poetic Aesthetics
Dr Sayantan Thakur, Assistant Professor in the Department of Literature & Languages have published his research paper, ‘Vaishnava Philosophy and the Poetic Aesthetics: An Analysis of Jayadeva’s Gita Govindam‘ in Tattva: Journal of Philosophy, an esteemed EBSCO-indexed and UGC-CARE Listed Journal. Dr Thakur’s work embodies the spirit of academic rigor and philosophical inquiry. Join us in traversing the landscapes of wisdom, where intellect meets aesthetics, and knowledge transcends boundaries. Explore the rich tapestry of ideas that define SRM University-AP‘s commitment to intellectual excellence.
Abstract
Literature finds the best expression when literary aesthetics and philosophy run side by side. The former offers the external charm, while the latter inculcates the more profound implication with the aim of providing it with a superior stature and permanence. Jayadeva’s Gitagovindam, being a colossal work in the field of Vaishnava literature, does contain the brilliant juxtaposition of both. This article attempts to show how Jayadeva’s Gitagovindam, a colossal work in the field of Vaishnava literature, does contain the brilliant juxtaposition of both. On the one hand, like a typical lyrical poem, its melodic nature does have a soothing effect and on the other, the use of philosophy instils in it a greater depth and seriousness to uplift itself as a book of devotion and religious inspiration. Moreover, the importance of this Holy Scripture lies in the fact that it not only played a significant role in paving the way to form a new sect in the Vaishnava religion, known as ‘Gaudiya Vaishnavism’, but also showed the later Vaishnava lyricists the art of portraying in words the amorous love of Lord Krishna and Radha with compassion and tears.
Practical implementation and social implications of the research
Cultural Preservation: Understanding and analysing ancient texts like the Gitagovindam helps in preserving cultural and religious heritage. This research can contribute to the preservation and understanding of Vaishnava philosophy and its cultural significance.
Literary Understanding: Analysis of the text can provide insights into the interplay between philosophy and aesthetics in literature. It can be used as a tool for students, scholars, and enthusiasts to comprehend how profound thoughts are conveyed through art and literature.
Religious Studies: It will be valuable for religious scholars and practitioners, shedding light on the philosophical underpinnings of Vaishnavism. It can deepen the understanding of the religious sentiments associated with the worship of Lord Krishna.
Artistic Inspiration: By examining the poetic aesthetics the research might inspire contemporary artists, poets, and musicians in exploring similar thematic elements in their creations. It could lead to the creation of new artistic works that incorporate similar philosophical depth.
Community Understanding: Studies like mine can also bridge gaps in understanding between different communities by shedding light on the beliefs and values encapsulated in ancient texts. This understanding might foster better cultural appreciation and harmony.
Interdisciplinary Insights: The analysis might encourage interdisciplinary studies by merging literary analysis with philosophy, offering new avenues for exploration and collaboration between these fields.
Collaborations
Dr. Uday Kumar Mishra, Professor, Department of English, TMBU
Future Research Plans
- Regional Literature in Translation
- Tantric Tradition and Eastern Indian Literature,
- Folk Music of Bengal,
- Indian Philosophy, Aesthetics & Literature
Link to the Article
https://journals.christuniversity.in/index.php/tattva/article/view/3640/2480
- Published in Departmental News, English Current Happenings, News, Research News
Lecture on Marginalised Childhoods
In an insightful talk at the Department of Behavioural Sciences in Kannur University, Dr Dhamodharan M, Assistant Professor at the Department of Psychology, SRM University-AP, shed light on “Psychological Research in Marginalized Children.” Dr Dhamodharan’s talk serves as a call to action, encouraging a deeper exploration of psychological research for the betterment of future generations.
Here’s an abstract of Dr Dhamodharan’s riveting talk.
Abstract
The invited lecture mainly focuses on the status and importance of psychological research in marginalized children. Marginalized People who are excluded from majority social, economic, educational, and/or cultural life. They are excluded due to race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, language, and/or immigration status (Baah et al.,2019). The term marginalized children include Children affected by or emerging from armed conflict or humanitarian crises, Children with disabilities, Children in remote or rural areas (including those who lack access to safe water and sanitation), Religious or ethnic minorities, Orphans, and children affected by HIV/AIDS, Child laborers, Married Children, Victims of trafficking (Legal Information Institute,2023). The World Health Organization defined “Child maltreatment is the abuse and neglect that occurs to children under 18 years of age. It includes all types of physical and emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect, negligence, and commercial or other exploitation, which results in actual or potential harm to the child’s health, survival, development, or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power” (World Health Organization, 2020). Children need essential nutrition, parental care, education, safety, entertainment, medical assistance, and physical, psychological, and social development (Deb & Ray, 2015). Children have their first human contact at home in a pleasant, nurturing, and caring environment; unfortunately, home is also where children are exposed to violence for the first time (United Nations Children’s Fund,2017). All children have the right to be safe from violence, oppression, and abuse. Despite this, globally, millions of children from all socioeconomic backgrounds, religions, cultures, and ages are subjected to violence and abuse daily. Violence against children is typical and endemic, and it is a terrible reality for millions of Indian children.
Over half of the world’s children have been subjected to extreme violence, with South Asia representing 64% of these instances (End Violence against Children | UNICEF India, n.d.) All types of violence against persons under 18 are considered violence against children. In 2019, about 1 billion children under eighteen experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect globally (WHO, 2020). In the world, 3 out of 4 children aged 2-4 years were subjected to violent regulation from caregivers daily. Six out of ten children were exposed to physical punishment, one out of every two children aged 2 to 17 experienced some type of violence, and 18% of girl children experienced childhood sexual violence, while 8% of boys experienced the same (UNICEF, 2020; United Nations Children’s Fund, 2017). Victims of child abuse have also been exposed to more than one type of violence (Descartes et al., 2020).
Many countries are not prohibited corporal punishment. One in every two children aged 6 to 17 is subjected to corporal punishment. Around fifteen million girls aged 15 to 19 have been subjected to forced sex from partners, boyfriends, or husbands, with just one percent seeking professional help. Throughout the world, 1 in every three children aged 13 to 15 has experienced bullying at school. Girls face more psychological bullying than boys, whereas boys face more physical bullying than girls (UNICEF, 2020. Sexual assault and exploitation are the most common violence in slum regions. Those in positions of supremacy and authority, such as educators and leaders, are the primary perpetrators. Early pregnancy is also a serious concern among the underprivileged community, which leads to sexual exploitation (Nagasurendran, 2017).
Approximately 70 lakh children in India are not receiving all vaccinations, particularly in slum areas, migrant settlement areas such as fisher villages, construction sites, and inaccessible villages. This data is very high compared to all other countries globally. Proper childhood nutrition is a significant indicator of development and welfare, especially in developing countries. However, previous literature studies failed to focus on the children from the marginalized communities. The students from Psychology background need to explore the marginalized children’s health, education, and mental health. Furthermore, the marginalized children study findings would be an eye-opener for the social welfare department to take need-based welfare measures for marginalized children.
Current Status of Research
- Convenience sampling procedures overrepresent dominant groups (Rad et al., 2018)
- Only 5% of articles in one premier psychology journal predominately sampled ethnic minorities (Thalmayer et al., 2020)
- Less than 2% of psychological studies across three decades of research included sexual minorities as participants (Lee & Crawford, 2021)
Major Challenges faced by Marginalisation Children
- Health Issues – Malnutrition, Lack of healthcare facilities
- Lack of Educational Support
- Abuse and Violence
- Lack of Social Support
- Caste Discrimination
Areas to Study in Marginalization Children
- Discrimination in School and Community (Deb, 2019)
- Resilience and coping mechanisms (Dar,2020)
- Educational motivation and Teacher-student relationships (Martin,2020)
- Traumatic and Post Traumatic Stress (Szota,2023)
- Identity Formation (Yosef,2023)
- Social Support and Media Influence (Kaskazi,2023)
- Published in Departmental News, News, Psychology News