Enter records

ID: 66590
Title: Ecological and Behavioural drivers of human-Sloth Bear Coexistence in and around Jessore Wild life Sanctuary, Gujarat
Author: Kanakba Rathod ,Devendrasingh Jhala and Sandeep Munjapara
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (10) Oct 25 Pg No. 927-934 (2025)
Subject: Ecological and Behavioural drivers of human-Sloth Bear Coexistence in and around Jessore Wild life Sanctuary, Gujarat
Keywords: Human-wildlife conflict, Sloth bear, Habitat management, Anthropogenic attractants, Conflict mitigation
Abstract: This study is about human-sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus) interactions in Banaskantha district, Gujarat, India, within and around Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary (JWS) from January 2023 to December 2024.Conducted in four villages (Kapasiya, Vara, Balundra, Vavdhara), the study employed transect sampling (20 transects, 29 km effort), camera trapping (30 cameras, 30 days/site), structured interviews (n=181), and focus group discussions to assess Sloth ear presence and Human-Sloth Bear dynamics. Of 211 defections,63% (n=133) near human food sources, 19.9% (n=42) near water sources, and 1.4 % (n=3) near human food sources, indicating a strong forest preference. Human sightings (n=147) were higher in anthropogenic areas (e.g., 17.0% in settlement peripheries), differing significantly from ecological detections (X2 =42.58, p < 0.00001).Sloth Bear showed crepuscular/nocturnal activity (83% defections from 18.00-06.00), with 60% in summer due to water scarcity. Conflicts, often involving females with cubs in summer (x2=16.28,p=0.012), decreased due to artificial water sources, fruit-tree plantations, and community deterrents.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bargali H.S, Akhtar N. and Chauhan N.P.S (2012).The sloth bear activity and movement in highly fragmented and disturbed habitat in Central India. World Journal of Zoology, 7 (40:312-319. Champion, Harry G. and Seth S.K. (1968). A revised survey of the forest types of Inida. New Delhi: Manager of Publications, Government of Indi a.
Literature cited 2: Densai P.Shalu Mesaria,Vishal Patel, Nishith Dharaiya (2025) Insights on human-sloth bear conflict in and around eco-sensitive zone: Chhota Udepur ,Gujarat, India. Journal of Wildlife and Biodiversity, Vol.9 No.1. Dharaiya N. (2009). Evaluating Habitat & Human -Bear Conflicts in North Gujarat, Inida, to seek Solutions for Human Bear Coexistence. Research Project Report 1-submitted to the Small Grants Division, Rufford Foundation. London, England, UK

ID: 66589
Title: Local community's perception towards a protected area in the Shivalik landscape, India
Author: Sakshi Rana,Priti Kumari,Ruchi Badola and Syed Ainul Hussain
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (10) Oct 25 Pg No. 919-926 (2025)
Subject: Local community's perception towards a protected area in the Shivalik landscape, India
Keywords: Perception, Altitude, Local communities, Park-people relationship, Management of protected area
Abstract: In Global South, protected areas (PA) in human-dominated landscapes create unavoidable tradeoffs between biodiversity conservation and local livelihoods. The authors surveyed 157 respondents adjacent to Kalesar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (KNPWLS) in Shivalik Landscape, India to assess perceived benefits and costs of living near the PA and perception towards it. Overall, 81.5% of respondents recognized Kalesar Forests as a PA, while about 78 % of them supported the continued existence of the PA. Perceived benefits centered on access to fuelwood, fodder and other forest products. The principal costs were crop and livestock losses attributable to wild animals. Despite these recurrent losses, most respondents maintained positive attitudes towards conservation, suggesting that support can be sustained when livelihood needs are acknowledged and addressed. These findings highlight the need for locally tailored co management strategies that extend tangible benefits, such a equitable tourism revenue, alternative fodder sources and rapid compensation for wildlife damage to the most vulnerable groups. By shifting from top-down enforcement to participatory governance and targeted benefit sharing, managers can foster durable community support and reconcile conservation goals with human wellbeing across densely settled PA landscapes in South Asia.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Allendorf T.D. (2020). A global summary of local resident's attitudes toward protected areas. Human ecology, 48 (1) :111-118. Allendorf T.D. (2022). A global summary of local residents perceptions of benefits and problems of protected areas. Biodiversity and Conservation,31 (2),379-396.
Literature cited 2: Ananya F.C. and Espiritio-Santo M.M (2018). Protected areas and territorial exclusion of traditional communities, Ecology and Soiety,23 (1). Aridrade G.S. and Rhodes J.R. (2012). Protected areas and local communities: an inevitable partnership toward successful conservation strategies?. Ecology and Society

ID: 66588
Title: Anna Mani – The Uncut Diamond
Author: Radhika Ramachandran
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1115-1116 (2025)
Subject: Anna Mani – The Uncut Diamond
Keywords: None
Abstract: Anna Mani was a physicist and meteorologist par excellence. She was born in Peermede, Kerala, India, in a family where education was given top priority. After schooling in Kerala, Anna passed her honours course in chemistry, physics, and mathematics from the Presidency College, Chennai. Although she began her doctoral work under the legendary Sir C. V. Raman on the spectroscopy of rubies and diamonds, upon completing her doctoral work, she obtained a scholarship for postdoctoral studies in the UK, focusing on meteorological instrumentation. After returning to India, her research focused on weather and climate science, particularly on solar radiation and atmospheric ozone. Her pioneering effort in the country to develop meteorological instrumentation for accurate measurements of atmospheric parameters won her laurels far and wide. Today, much of India’s foundation for weather and climate research is based on the pioneering efforts of Anna Mani. She retired as the Deputy Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi, in 1976 and continued as a Visiting Professor at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru, until 1980, where she worked on the meteorological measurements necessary to set up a millimetre-wave radio telescope. While at Bengaluru, she also served as the Editor of Patrika, the newsletter of the Indian Academy of Sciences, and as President of the Current Science Association. After that, she took on the role of Scientist-in-Charge of the Field Research Unit IITM–Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (FRU–IITM) project, based in Bengaluru, to establish wind and solar energy stations. She had an office at RRI but also a factory in Peenya, where many of the instruments were manufactured. She continued in this project till about 1996–97 when severe illness brought her to Thiruvananthapuram, where she spent the rest of her life with her close family members, till her passing away in 2001.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:

ID: 66587
Title: Leaf-rolling weevils infesting phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.) in India: new observations on Pseudallapoderus sissus and Henicolabus octomaculatus
Author: Uma Shankar and Yousra Mukhtar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1112-1114 (2025
Subject: Leaf-rolling weevils infesting phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.) in India: new observations on Pseudallapoderus sissus and Henicolabus octomaculatus
Keywords: Attelabidae, Henicolabus, leaf-rolling weevils, phalsa, Pseudallapoderus
Abstract: Phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.) is an underutilised fruit crop valued for its nutritional and therapeutic benefits. In India, around twelve insect pests are known to infest this crop. During surveys in phalsa orchards of the Jammu subtropics, two new leaf-rolling weevils, Pseudallapoderus sissus (Marshall, 1913) and Henicolabus octomaculatus (Jekel, 1860) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Attelabidae), were observed feeding on phalsa foliage and constructing characteristic leaf rolls (nidi). Field data indicated measurable incidence of infestation, leaf damage, and nidus formation, confirming their association with phalsa and suggesting their potential as emerging pests. These findings expand the known host range of both species and provide baseline information for further studies on their biology and economic importance
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . Abrol, D. P. and Shankar, U., Phalsa is an excellent forage plant for bees and other visiting insects. Bee World, 2021, 98(2), 1–4. Kumar, R., Bakshi, P., Kumar, V., Singh, V. B. and Trilokia, M., Phalsa is a profitable fruit crop in the Jammu subtropics. Indian Hortic., 2019, 60(4), 21–22.
Literature cited 2: Karuppaiah, V., Insects pests of phalsa (Grewia asiatica Linn) and their management options. Pop. Kheti, 2017, 2(4), 83–85. Arnett, R. H., American Insects: A Handbook of the Insects of America North of Mexico, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida, 2007, p. 1024.

ID: 66586
Title: Myanmar Earthquake Mw 7.7 on 28 March 2025: geodynamic and spaceborne DInSAR perspective
Author: R. S. Chatterjee and J. R. Kaya
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1109-1111 (2025)
Subject: Myanmar Earthquake Mw 7.7 on 28 March 2025: geodynamic and spaceborne DInSAR perspective
Keywords: DInSAR, geodynamic perspectives, Myanmar Earthquake 2025, Sagaing Fault, super shear
Abstract: On 28 March 2025, a devastating earthquake (Mw 7.7) ruptured the central segment of the Sagaing Fault, a major right-lateral strike-slip fault that accommodates the northward motion of the Myanmar Microplate relative to the Sunda Plate. Historical records, GPS measurements, and past seismic activity had already identified this fault segment as a seismic gap which has been accumulating strain since the 1839 great earthquake (M∼8.3). The recent earthquake in 2025 produced an exceptionally long rupture, widespread surface displacements and ground shaking, causing significant casualties and destruction across Myanmar and neighbouring regions. The present study employs spaceborne interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) analysis to map land surface displacements and rupture geometry associated with the event.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . USGS, M 7.7 Mandalay, Burma (Myanmar) Earthquake. U.S. Geological Survey, 2025; https://www.usgs.gov/news/featured-story/m77- mandalay-burma-myanmar-earthquake# (accessed on 17 April 2025). 2. Molnar, P. and Tapponnier, P., Cenozoic tectonics of Asia: effects of a continental collision. Science, 1975, 189(4201), 419–426
Literature cited 2: Huchison, C. S., Tectonic evolution of Southeast Asia. Bull. Geol. Soc. Malays., 1989, 60, 1–18. 4. Le Dain, A. Y., Tapponnier, P. and Molnar, P., Active faulting and tectonics of Burma and surrounding regions. J. Geophys. Res., 1984, 89, 453–472.

ID: 66585
Title: Aquaculture growth and its role in India’s aquatic food supply: a trend analysis and projection to 2033
Author: Bhupeshri V. Shetye, Ravindra A. Pawar, Kajal B. Rathod and Vivek H. Nirmale
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1074-1080 (2025)
Subject: Aquaculture growth and its role in India’s aquatic food supply: a trend analysis and projection to 2033
Keywords: Aquaculture growth, aquatic food, capture fisheries, food security, nutritional security.
Abstract: India’s aquatic food systems require a comprehensive assessment to ensure nutritional security amid demographic expansion. We examined aquatic food balance sheet elements (total production, imports, exports, domestic availability, non–food uses, and per capita supply) during 2010–2022 and species–specific production dynamics (2004–2023), projecting trajectories to 2033. Total fisheries production is projected to increase 46.0%, with per capita food supply requiring 42.7% growth to meet demand under 0.69% annual population growth. Capture fisheries demonstrated a precipitous decline (86.8% reduction), precluding wild resources from long–term food security. Aquaculture emerged as the primary driver, exhibiting 39.1% expansion with Indian major carps projected to reach 11,082 thousand tonnes by 2033. Going forward, our scenario–based analysis identified ‘business–as–usual’ pattern as optimal. Critical vulnerabilities exist in relation to climate stress and disease outbreaks, with emphasis on biosecurity and climate resilient strain development. Our assessment provides empirical foundations for strategic sectoral prioritization in the national aquatic food security planning.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: United Nations, World population prospects 2019: highlights, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, New York, 2019. Kawarazuka, N. and Béné, C., The potential role of small fish species in improving micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries: building evidence. Public He
Literature cited 2: Bogard, J. R., Thilsted, S. H., Marks, G. C., Wahab, M. A., Hossain, M. A. R., Jakobsen, J. and Stangoulis, J., Nutrient composition of important fish species in Bangladesh and potential contribution to recommended nutrient intakes. J. Food Compos. Anal., 2015, 42, 120–133. Ahmed, N., Ward, J. D. and Saint, C. P., Can integrated aquaculture–agriculture (IAA) produce "more crop per drop"? Food Security, 2014, 6(4), 767–779.

ID: 66584
Title: Population structure and regeneration status of Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. (Indian rosewood) in forest areas of Karnataka, India: implications for conservation and sustainable management
Author: S. M. Balakrishna , T. N. Manohara and H. S. Suresh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1063-1073 (2025)
Subject: Population structure and regeneration status of Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. (Indian rosewood) in forest areas of Karnataka, India: implications for conservation and sustainable management
Keywords: Carbon sequestration, conservation management, Dalbergia latifolia, invasive species, population structure, regeneration dynamics, Western Ghats
Abstract: Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. (Indian rosewood) is a valuable tropical hardwood native to South and Southeast Asia, increasingly threatened by habitat loss, overexploitation, and regeneration challenges. The present study provides a comprehensive field based assessment of population structure, regeneration dynamics, and ecological factors across thirteen forest divisions in Karnataka, India, including Reserve Forests (RFs) and Wildlife Sanctuaries/Tiger Reserves (WLS/TRs). A total of 190 transects were surveyed, recording 1,705 individuals classified as seedlings, saplings (poles), or mature trees. The average tree density was 6.66±6.51 individuals per 0.1 hectare (range: 0–34). Regeneration was mainly seed originated, accounting for 92.5% of individuals, with minimal contribution from root suckers. Seedling (520 individuals/ha) and sapling (330 individuals/ha) densities were significantly higher in RFs compared to WLS/TRs, where regeneration was considerably limited despite the presence of mature trees. Size-class distributions in RFs showed a reverse J-shaped pattern, indicating active recruitment, whereas WLS/TRs displayed recruitment bottlenecks dominated by mature cohorts. Invasive species such as Lantana camara and Chromolaena odorata have been identified as significant barriers to regeneration, intensifying competition and increasing fire risk. Biomass and carbon stock assessments revealed significant spatial variation, with the Madikeri and Bhadra divisions contributing notably to carbon sequestration. These findings emphasise the urgent need for adaptable, sitespecific management approaches, including invasive species control, fire mitigation, enrichment planting, and regeneration support, guided by ongoing ecological monitoring. The integrated methodological framework presented here offers a scalable model for assessing other endangered hardwood species, delivering essential insights to promote conservation, sustainable forest management, and global climate resilience.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Arunkumar, A. N., Warrier, R. R., Kher, M. M. and Teixeira da Silva, J. A., Indian rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia Roxb.): biology, utilisation, and conservation practices. Trees, 2022, 36(3), 883–898; DOI: 10.1007/s00468-021-02243-3. Kadambi, K., The silviculture of Dalbergia latifolia. Monograph of Indian Trees No. 1, Government of India, Manager of Publications, Delhi, 1954.
Literature cited 2: Sasidharan, K. R., Prakash, S., Muraleekrishnan, K. and Kunhikannan, C., Population structure and regeneration of Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. and D. sissoides Wight & Arn. in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, India. Int. J. Adv. Res. Rev., 2020, 5(9), 51–66. Chopra, N. et al., Estimation of biomass and carbon sequestration potential of Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. and Melia composita Willd. plantations in the Tarai Region (India). Forests, 2023, 14(3), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14030646.

ID: 66583
Title: Genetic architecture, inter relations in selection programme for yield enhancement in paddy (Oryza sativa L.)
Author: B. Manjunatha and B. Niranjana Kumara
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1058-1062 (2025)
Subject: Genetic architecture, inter relations in selection programme for yield enhancement in paddy (Oryza sativa L.)
Keywords: Diversity, genetic coefficient of variability, paddy, phenotypic coefficient of variability, yield enhancement.
Abstract: The present study was carried out at the Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Kathalagere, India. Sixty-seven sophisticated paddy breeding lines were used in the experiment. Three replications of the experiment were carried out, each with a plot size of 4 m × 3 m. Grain yield per plot (kg), grain yield per hectare (kg), plant height (cm), panicles per square meter, days to 50% flowering, and days to maturity were all noted. Genetic variability and diversity parameters – two important aspects of plant breeding – were analysed. When selecting the genotypes, varieties, and breeding lines, higher genetic and phenotypic coefficients of variability (GCV and PCV) should be taken into account to progress and prosper in the yield and yield contribution towards varietal performance. These include days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), panicles per square meter, and grain yield per plot (kg). Genetic diversity studies demonstrated that the factors that contributed most to the genotypes’ divergence were the following: plant height, grain production per plot, panicles per square meter, days to 50% flowering, and days to maturity. Several crossing studies have shown that transgressive segregants with high genetic yield potential and early maturity can improve the quality of some clusters, which are made up of superior genotypes.
Location: T E 15 New Biology Building
Literature cited 1: Sarla, N. and Swamy, B. P. M., Oryza glaberrima: a source for the improvement of Oryza sativa. Curr. Sci., 2005, 89(6), 955–963. Khush, G. S. and Virk, P. S., Rice breeding achievements and future strategies. Crop Improv., 2000, 27(2), 115–144
Literature cited 2: Smith, B. D., The Emergence of Agriculture, Scientific American Library, New York, USA, 1995, p. 256. Hossain, M., Siwar, I. C., Mokhtar, M. B., Dey, M. M., Jaafar, A. H. and Alam, M. M., Standard Evaluation System Manual, International Rice Research Institute, Manila, Philippines, 1996

ID: 66582
Title: The role of satellite laser ranging in space geodesy: developments, applications and Indian perspective
Author: Pramod Gandugade, Sushant Shekhar , Somalin Nath, B. Nagarajan and Onkar Dikshit
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1048-1057 (2025)
Subject: The role of satellite laser ranging in space geodesy: developments, applications and Indian perspective
Keywords: None
Abstract: Satellite laser ranging (SLR) has been a key geodetic technique for over 60 years, contributing to reference frame realisation, Earth orientation monitoring, orbit determination, and gravity field modelling. The International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) operates a global network of 50 tracking stations, ensuring millimetre-precision measurements for the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). However, challenges such as uneven station distribution, atmospheric effects, and retroreflector degradation impact data accuracy. The United Nations (UN) adopted the Global Geodetic Reference Frame (GGRF) resolution in 2015, aiming for 1 mm accuracy and 0.1 mm/year stability; however, the current precision stands at 5 mm and 0.5 mm/year. Advancements such as MiniSLR technology, automation, and high-power kHz lasers enhance precision. India is expanding its SLR capabilities with ISRO-tracked stations at Mount Abu and Ponmudi, alongside colocated geodetic sites at IIT Kanpur’s Geodesy Village. The National Geospatial Policy 2022 (NGP 2022) supports the Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network for horizontal datum definition, strengthening India’s self-reliance in space geodesy and terrestrial reference frame realisation. The objective of the present article is to consolidate global and Indian developments in SLR, highlighting its applications in geodesy and India’s geodetic future.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Altamimi, Z., Coulot, D. and Collilieux, X., Status of ITRF development and SLR contribution. In Proceedings of the 16th International Workshop on Laser Ranging, 2009, pp. 35–42. Pearlman, M., The International Laser Ranging Service and its support for IGGOS. J. Geodyn., 2005, 40, 470–478.
Literature cited 2: Altamimi, Z., Sillard, P. and Boucher, C., ITRF2000: a new release of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame for earth science applications. J. Geophys. Res. Solid Earth, 2002, 107, B10. Appleby, G., Rodríguez, J. and Altamimi, Z., Assessment of the accuracy of global geodetic satellite laser ranging observations and estimated impact on ITRF scale: estimation of systematic errors in LAGEOS observations 1993–2014. J. Geod., 2016, 90, 1371–1388.

ID: 66581
Title: Traditional cooking fuels and poor ventilation: a contributor to type 2 diabetes in rural India?
Author: Natarajan Lakshmi, Ranjit Mohan Anjana ,Viswanathan Mohan, Rajendra Pradeepa
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (12) 25 Dec . 2025 1043-1044 (2025)
Subject: Traditional cooking fuels and poor ventilation: a contributor to type 2 diabetes in rural India?
Keywords: None
Abstract: Across India, the kitchen has long been the heart of the home. However, for millions of rural families, it is also an environmental health hazard, associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Evidence from the recently published Telemedicine pRoject for screENing Diabetes and its complications in rural Tamil Nadu (TREND) study (Lakshmi et al., Int. J. Diabetes Dev. Ctries., 2023, 43(6), 883–891; https://doi.org/10.1080/09603123.2025.2593380), which included 13,877 individuals from 30 villages in rural Tamil Nadu, provides compelling results linking household cooking environments and long-term use of traditional fuels to the growing epidemic of T2D in rural South India (Lakshmi et al., Int. J. Environ. Health Res., 2025, 1–10). There is strong evidence for the mounting prevalence of T2D in both urban and rural India (Anjana et al., Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol., 2023, 11(7), 474–489). Traditionally known risk factors for T2D include unhealthy diet (Bhavadharini et al., Diabetes Care, 2020, 43(11), 2643–2650), obesity, and physical inactivity (Anjana et al., Int. J. Behav. Nutr. Phys. Act., 2014, 11(1), 26; Mohan et al., Diabet. Med., 2005, 22(9), 1206–1211) contribute to the incidence of new onset diabetes (Mohan et al., J. Assoc. Physicians India, 2008, 56, 152–157), even among the young (Mohan et al., Diabetes Care, 1985, 8(4), 371–374), and are considered characteristic features of T2D in both urban and rural India (Pradeepa et al., 2021, 69(11), 2932–2938). Current evidence from the TREND study highlights the use of traditional cooking fuel as an emerging risk factor for T2D (Lakshmi et al., Int. J. Environ. Health Res., 2025, 1–10).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:

ID: 66580
Title: A rare bloom and a buzz of life: bee communities visiting Strobilanthes callosus flowering in the northern Western Ghats, India
Author: Amar Kharmate , Sarika Torawane, Samadhan Phuge and Varsha Wankhade
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (10) 25 Nov. 2025 924-926 (2025)
Subject: A rare bloom and a buzz of life: bee communities visiting Strobilanthes callosus flowering in the northern Western Ghats, India
Keywords: Bee community, northern Western Ghats, Strobilanthes callosus.
Abstract: Bee visits to seasonal flowering plants are vital not only in facilitating pollination but also in providing essential nutritional resources for their survival. Strobilanthes callosus is a plietesial shrub endemic to northern and central Western Ghats, India, blooms once in seven years. We studied the bee pollinator community visiting S. callosus flowers during the peak blooming period (September–October) in 2024. We observed four types of honey bees – (Apis dorsata, Apis cerana, Apis florea, and Stingless bee) during S. callosus flowering, and A. dorsata was predominantly present at high altitude locations surrounded by tall cliffs. All four bees were observed at a high altitude location Kadave Ghat where S. callosus bloomed in the field of high altitude grassland. These observations suggest that the honey bee community at high altitude during peak flowering of S. callosus differs possibly due to habitat characters.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . Roulston, T. H. and Goodell, K., The role of resources and risks in regulating wild bee populations. Annu. Rev. Entomol., 2011, 56, 293–312. Ogilvie, J. E. and Forrest, J. R., Interactions between bee foraging and floral resource phenology shape bee populations and communities. Curr. Opin. Insect Sci., 2017, 21, 75–82.
Literature cited 2: Chole, H., Woodard, S. H. and Bloch, G., Body size variation in bees: regulation, mechanisms, and relationship to social organization. Curr. Opin. Insect Sci., 2019, 35, 77–87. Yang, M. X., Tan, K., Radloff, S. E. and Hepburn, H. R., Interspecific Interactions Among Asian Honeybees. In Honeybees of Asia (eds. Hepburn, H. R. and Radloff, S. E.), Springer Berlin Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany, 2011, pp. 445–47

ID: 66579
Title: Evidence of shift in stubble burning timing over northwest India from geostationary satellite observations
Author: Nimisha Singh , Rohit Pradhan, Bipasha Paul Shukla and Mehul R. Pandya
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (10) 25 Nov. 2025 921-923 (2025)
Subject: Evidence of shift in stubble burning timing over northwest India from geostationary satellite observations
Keywords: Active fire, geostationary satellite, SEVIRI, stubble burning, VIIRS
Abstract: Northwest India, particularly the states of Punjab and Haryana, has experienced recurring stubble burning during the post-monsoon months of October and November, significantly affecting regional air quality. In the present study, we use high-temporal-resolution observations from the Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager (SEVIRI) onboard the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) satellite to investigate recent changes in the timing of stubble burning. Our analysis shows a gradual shift in peak fire activity from ∼13:30 IST in 2020 to ∼17:00 IST in 2024, to avoid detection by polar-orbiting satellites. These findings demonstrate the importance of geostationary satellites for monitoring diurnal fire dynamics and highlight the implications of altered burning practices for emission inventories, air quality assessments, and mitigation strategies in the region.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Singh, J., Paddy and wheat stubble blazing in Haryana and Punjab states of India: a menace for environmental health. Environ. Qual. Manag., 2018, 28, 47–53. Abdurrahman, M. I., Chaki, S., and Saini, G., Stubble burning: effects on health & environment, regulations and management practices. Environ. Adv., 2020, 2, 100011
Literature cited 2: Bikkina, S. et al., Air quality in megacity Delhi affected by countryside biomass burning. Nat. Sustain., 2019, 2, 200–205. Mor, S., Singh, T., Bishnoi, N. R., Bhukal, S. and Ravindra, K., Understanding seasonal variation in ambient air quality and its relationship with crop residue burning activities in an agrarian state of India. Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res., 2022, 29,

ID: 66578
Title: Unraveling the mycosphere microbiome: bacterial diversity in Pleurotus cystidiosus substrates
Author: Lakshitha Kumara , J. M. A. I. K. Jayamanna , T. C. Bamunuarachchige , Ajith I. Rathnayake and Gayan Abeysinghe
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (10) 25 Nov. 2025 909-920 (2025)
Subject: Unraveling the mycosphere microbiome: bacterial diversity in Pleurotus cystidiosus substrates
Keywords: Bacillus tequilensis, bacterial–fungal interactions, mycosphere microbiomes, Pleurotus cystidios
Abstract: Mushrooms are in high demand in Sri Lanka; however, their market availability remains limited due to specific environmental conditions, particularly within the mushroom substrate. Mushroom substrates host a complex microbiome, with over 90% of the microbial biomass consisting of bacterial and fungal species. Understanding the beneficial and antagonistic dynamics within these microbial communities presents innovative opportunities to enhance bacterial–fungal interactions (BFIs) to promote mushroom growth. The present study used culture-dependent methods to isolate, identify, and characterise bacterial species from Pleurotus cystidiosus’ mycosphere, assessing their potential to enhance host growth. A range of selective and general media, including King’s B, tryptic soy agar, and Reasoner’s two agar, was used to isolate bacteria. Additionally, the physicochemical parameters of the substrates were analysed to assess quality and composition. Morphological characterisation yielded a total of eleven bacterial isolates across the media, and five bacterial species were identified through morphological characteristics observed under stereo and upright microscopy, Gram staining, and colony imaging. Molecular identification via amplification of 16S rRNA revealed the presence of Bacillus tequilensis, and Niallia nealsonii as well as facultative anaerobes Franconibacter helveticus and Staphylococcus pasteuri. This study provides evidence of growth-promoting bacterial communities within the native mycosphere of P. cystidiosus and their potential role in enhancing mushroom cultivation by increasing biomass without disrupting the native microbiome. Future research will focus on analysing the functional roles of these bacteria and developing bioinoculants to optimise beneficial BFIs for sustainable mushroom farming.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Premarathne, B. M. et al., A review of wild edible and medicinal mushrooms in Sri Lanka: systematic exploration and industrial applications. MycoAsia, 2025, 1–50; https://doi.org/10.59265/mycoasia.2025-01. Gamage. S. and Ohga, S., A comparative study of technological impact on mushroom industry in Sri Lanka: a review. Adv. Microbiol., 2018, 8(8), 665–686
Literature cited 2: Karunarathna, S. C., Mortimer, P. E., Xu, J. and Hyde, K. D., Overview of research of mushrooms in Sri Lanka. Rev. Fitotec. Mex., 2017, 40(4), 399–403. Thilakaratna, W. S. and Pathirana, P. B. M., Prospects and challenges of mushroom production in Kuruwita, Sri Lanka: comparative report on two consecutive years. J. Dry Zone Agric., 2018, 4(1), 1–7; http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/1461.

ID: 66577
Title: Dynamical behaviour of the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equation for atomic Fermi gases near the BCS-BEC crossove
Author: Chunyan Xiong and Shuhong Chen
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (10) 25 Nov. 2025 900-908 (2025)
Subject: Dynamical behaviour of the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equation for atomic Fermi gases near the BCS-BEC crossove
Keywords: Ginzburg-Landau theory, global attractors, Gronwall’s inequality, Priori estimate, time dependen
Abstract: The present article studies the dynamic behaviour of the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equation, which describes the phenomenon of BCS-BEC crossover. First, the appropriate prior estimates are established by Gronwall’s inequality and Gagliardo-Nirenberg interpolation inequality, etc. Then, we prove the existence of the global attractor in the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau system. Finally, the evolution of the field and the influence of physical parameters on the dynamic behaviour are demonstrated by numerical experiments, thereby validating the theory in this article.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: De Gennes, P.-G., Superconductivity of metals and alloys. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 2018. Bardeen, J., Cooper, L. N. and Schrieffer, J. R., Theory of superconductivity. Phys. Rev., 1957, 10
Literature cited 2: Bose, S., Plancks Gesetz und Lichtquantenhypothese. Z. Phys., 1924, 26, 178–181. Holland, M., Kokkelmans, S., Chiofalo, M. L. and Walser, R., Resonance superfluidity in a quantum degenerate Fermi gas. Phys. Rev. Lett., 2001, 87, 120406.

ID: 66576
Title: A dual-platform approach to DNA methylation profiling in blood and tissue for non-invasive diagnosis of urinary bladder cancer
Author: Amandeep Singh , Bhasker Mukherjee , G. Rahul , Mukesh Singh , Jyothsana Vardhani Pabbineedi and Rattan Deep Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (10) 25 Nov. 2025 894-899 (2025)
Subject: A dual-platform approach to DNA methylation profiling in blood and tissue for non-invasive diagnosis of urinary bladder cancer
Keywords: Biomarkers, epigenetics, methylation, sequencing, urothelial.
Abstract: The present study evaluated DNA methylation as a non-invasive biomarker for urinary bladder cancer (UBC) by comparing blood and matched tumour tissues from 243 patients and 200 controls (110 matched tissues). Methylation of P16, CALCA, CCNA1, TMEM106A and AL021918.2 was profiled using whole genome bisulphite sequencing (WGBS) and validated by methylation-specific PCR. In blood, the five-gene panel achieved 92.3% sensitivity and 88.1% specificity; in tissues, sensitivity was 100% with 92.7% specificity. High blood–tissue concordance supports blood-based methylation assays as viable, cost-effective alternatives to cystoscopy for early detection and monitoring of UBC.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Sung, H., Ferlay, J., Siegel, R. L., Laversanne, M., Soerjomataram, I., Jemal, A. and Bray, F., Global cancer statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN estimates of cancer incidence and mortality worldwide. CA Cancer J. Clin., 2021, 71, 209–249; doi: 10.1186/s13148-022-01240-8 Babjuk, M. et al., European Association of Urology guidelines on non muscle-invasive bladder cancer (Ta, T1, and carcinoma in situ). Eur. Urol., 2022, 81(1), 75–94; doi:10.1016/j.eururo.2021.08.010
Literature cited 2: Kamat, A. M. et al., Bladder cancer diagnosis and surveillance: contemporary challenges and future strategies. Nat. Rev. Urol., 2022, 19, 231–244. Kim, S. Y. and Kim, Y., DNA methylation biomarkers in urological cancers: a review. Cancer Sci., 2021, 112, 3915–3925.