Enter records

ID: 66545
Title: Indigenous knowledge and sacred conservation: ethnobotanical insights from Ernakulam district, Kerala
Author: Lakshmi Raj,P.K.Bindu and Rajkiran
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (9) Sep 25 Pg No. 847-850 (2025)
Subject: Indigenous knowledge and sacred conservation: ethnobotanical insights from Ernakulam district, Kerala
Keywords: Biodiversity, ethnobotany, sustainable utilization, traditional knowledge
Abstract: Ethnobotany primarily focuses on the traditional knowledge surrounding local plant species and their cultural significance. With increasing threats to species and their natural habitats, the conservation of biodiversity has become global concern. Ethnobotanical studies contribute significantly to Biodiversity conservation by identifying economically valuable plant species using indigenous communities and by documenting sacred groves, as well as plant-associated myths and traditions. To document ethnobotanically important plants and associated ecological conservation practices, a field-based study was conducted in the Kuttampuzha panchayat, Ernakulam district. Data were collected through structured interviews and questionaires administered to local indigenus populations. The study recorded 34 plant species belonging to 26 different families. By capturing traditional ecological knowledge, this research promotes the sustainable use of biological resources and supports more effective biodiversity conservation strategies.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Eduard C. (2023). Conservation of biodiversity through ethnobotany and traditional knowledge. Journal of Biodiversity. Bioprospecting and Development, 9 (2):26.Hilaris Publisher. https://www.hilarispublisher.com/open-access/conservation-of-biodiversity-through-ethnobotany-and-traditional-knowledge-100427.html. Gautam S. (2024).The role of indigenous knowledge in biodiversity conservation: Integrating traditional practices with modern environmental approaches. Environmental Research, 1 (1):1-3.
Literature cited 2: Pathak N. (2022).Traditional knowledge and its role in biodiversity conservation. Journal of Agroecology and Natural Resource Management, 9 (1):39-42. Pei S., Hamilton A. and Wang Y. (2020). Vital roles for ethnobotany in conservation and sustainable development. Plant Diversity, 42 (6):399-401.

ID: 66544
Title: Diversity, ethnopharmacological potential and ecological significance of Drosera species: A carnivorous genus of India
Author: Anuradha Das, Sakshi Gupta, Sweta Mishra and Sanjeet kumar
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (9) Sep 25 Pg No. 847-850 (2025)
Subject: Diversity, ethnopharmacological potential and ecological significance of Drosera species: A carnivorous genus of India
Keywords: Carnivorous, Ecological association, future medicine, sundews
Abstract: Drosera is a genus of the group of carnivorous plants. Three Drosera species are reported from India. Very few reports are available on them, and scientific readers are always curious to know about their ecological significance. Keeping this in view, an attempt has been made to document their ecological and medicinal aspects through field and literature survey and presented in this research note. Conservation strategies and future research plan is also discussed.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bakshi M.K, Sajan S.K., Xaxa S.Srivastava D.S.,Mishra A.K.and Kazmi S. (2017).Record of carnivorous plant Drosera burmanni Vahl (Caryophyllales:Drposeraceae) from Palamu Tiger Reserve, Jharkhand, India. Indian Forester, 143(6):612-613. Fleischmann A.S, Rakotoarivelo N.H., Roccia A., Gonella P.M. Andraiamiarisoa L.R.,Razanatsima A. and Rakotoarivony F (2020). A new and endemic species of Drosera (Droseraceae) from Madagascar. Plant Ecology and Evolution, 153(2)283-291.
Literature cited 2: Hake A., BegrowF. Siegler V., Symma N.Hensel A., and Dufer M (2022).Effects of Extracts and flavonoids from Drosera rotundifolia L. on Cilliary Beat frequency and Murine Airway Smooth Muscle, Molecules, 27 (19) 6622 Hema B, Bhupendra S, Mohamed Salem T.S. and Gauthaman K (2009). Anticonvulsant Effect of Drosera brumanii Vahl. International Journal of Applied Research in Natural Products, 2 (3): 1-4.

ID: 66543
Title: Twenty-first year of global research on flyash: a review
Author: Rajesh Kumar,Atul Kumar Bhardwaj,K.K.Chandra,Arun Kumar Shukla and Anish Kumar Singh
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (9) Sep 25 Pg No. 832-839 (2025)
Subject: Twenty-first year of global research on flyash: a review
Keywords: Coal,flyash, pollution, environment, power generation
Abstract: Fly ash is a fine particle by-product of pulverized coal combustion derived mostly from coal-fired power plants. Due to the increasing population in the world, electrical energy consumption has reached an all-time high. To cope with the power demands, the power industries increase their production, producing an enormous quantity of fly ash and creating environmental rather than other energy sources as wind and solar energy. Flyashes are utilized for several purposes ,such as cement, bricks, building materials, etc. However, its restoration potential is still limited. In the present review, twenty-first year of published research literature related to fly ash have been summarised based on different parameters. In addition, the article also focuses on the physico-chemical compositions and utility of fly ash across globe that influences its reuse options. This paper also gives an overview of the global scenario of fly ash generation and trends of flyash research in the past twenty years.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ahmad I. Prakash A. and Mahanwar J.M. (2010).Mechanical properties of Fly Ash filled high density polyethylene. Journal of Minerals and Materials characterization and engineering. 9(3):183-198.DOI https://doi.org/10.4236/jmmce.2010.93016. Ahn S.J. and Graczyk, D. (2012). Understanding energy challenges in India; Policies, Payers and Issues. International Energy Agency.
Literature cited 2: Alterary S.S. and Marei N.H. (2021).Flyash properties, characterization, and applications:A review Journal of King Saud University-Science, 33 (6):101536:doi:10.1016/j.jksus.2021.101536. American Society for Testing and Materials (2005).Committee C-9 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates, Standard specification for coral fly ash and raw or calcined natural pozzoian for use in concrete.ASTM Int.

ID: 66542
Title: Fruit and seed morphological characteristics of selected forest trees species of family Anacardiaceae of Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, India
Author: Nandita and A.K. Negi
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (9) Sep 25 Pg No. 832-839 (2025)
Subject: Fruit and seed morphological characteristics of selected forest trees species of family Anacardiaceae of Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, India
Keywords: Fruit morphology, seed morphology, moisture content, Kotdwar region
Abstract: This study invesigates fruit and seed morphology variations among five Anacardiaceae species. Spondias pinnata, Semecarpus anacardium, Buchanania lanzan, Lannea coromandelica and Pistachia khinjuk, to understand their ecological adaptations. Fruit traits examined include weight, length, width, pulp weight, and moisture content, while seed trait encompass weight, length, width, moisture and 1000-seed test values. Spondias pinnata produced the largest fruit (208.14 g.pulp119.34 g moisture 72.46%), whereas Pistachia khinjuk had the smallest (2.27g.pulp 0.53 g).For seeds , Spondias pinnata had the heaviest (88.71 g for 10 seeds) and highest 1000-seed values (829.94), while Pistachia khinjuk had the highest (1.02 g for 25 seeds) and lowest test value (43.21).Seed moisture content ranged from 41.17% (Lannea coromandelica) to 61.66% (Spondias pinnata).These variations reflect different ecological strategies and reproductive adaptations, highlighting the potential for these species in agroforestry , conservation, and restoration efforts. The findings emphasize the importance of conserving these species for ecosystem health and their application in horticulture. Further research should explore genetic and environmental influences on these traits.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adewale B.D., Kehinde O.B. Aremu C.O, Popoola J.O. and Dumet D.J. (2010). Seed metrics for genetic and shape determinations in African yam bean (Fabaceae) (Sphenostylis) stenocarpa Hoscht.ExA. Rich) harms.African Journal of Plant Science, 4(4):107-115. Alaro A., Rodriguez M. and Morales J.(2018)Fruit morphological traits and adaptation of Pistachia species in arid environmnets.Journal of Arid Land, 10 (3):175-182.
Literature cited 2: Cervantes E., Martin J.J. and Saadaoul E.(2016). Updated Methods for seed shape Analysis. In Scientifica (Vol.2016) Hindawi Limited. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/5691825 Chandra Naithani S. (2004).SC Naithani, R Naithani, B Varghese, JK Godheja, KK Sahu, MS acande, C. Joker Comparative Storage Biology of Tropical Tree Seeds.academia.edu.

ID: 66541
Title: Conserving Bhitarkanika mangroves sustainable blue economy
Author: Kakoli Banerjee,G.Jayanti reddy,Archana snehasini Turuk and Pramod kumar Bindhani
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (9) Sep 25 Pg No. 821-831 (2025)
Subject: Conserving Bhitarkanika mangroves sustainable blue economy
Keywords: Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary, Mangroves, Blue carbon, clue economy,carbon dioxide equivalent
Abstract: The study quantities the Above Ground Biomass (AGB) and Above Ground Carbon (AGC) of Bhitarkanika mangroves to assess their potential for Payment of four dominant species viz. Avicenia marina ,Avicennia officinalis, Exocoecaria agallocha, and Rhizophora mucronata in five selected sections revealed significant seasonal and spatial variations (P<0.05).Average AGB over a period of5 years (2017-2022) was highest in A.officinalis (190.4412±12.49 tha-1) followed by E.agaliocha (66.94±3.94 t.ha-1) and minimum at station 5 (13.01±1.97 t.ha-1) due to drastic variation in salinity and pH. Average sediment organic carbon (SOC)values over a period of 5 year ranged from 23.56±2.76 t.ha-1 to 56.48 ±8.22 t.ha-1.Rate of carbon sequestration of 36532.17 tones Considering the Bhitarkanika mangrove ecosystem as a whole, the carbon stock is estimated to be 33.44 TgC which is equivalent to 122.74 TgCO2-Economic valuation indicated a carbon credit worth $1.23 billion annually establishing a national minimum place on carbon pollution $50 in 2022 per ton. These findings emphasize Bhitatkanika's role as a crucial carbon sink, supporting SDG 13 climate goals and blue economy through conservation-driven carbon trading opportunities.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ahmed S., Pramanick P., Zaman S. and Mitra A (2024). Spatial Variability in Carbon Storage Among Dominant Mangrove Species in the Indian Sundarbans. In Forests and Climate Change: Biological Perspectives on Impact, Adaptation, and Mitigation Strategies(pp.691-707). Singapore: Springer Nature Singapore. Alimbon J.A. and Mansegulao M.R.S. (2021). Species composition, stand characteristics, aboveground biomass, and carbon stock of mangroves in Panabo Mangrove Park Phillipines. Biodiversities Journal of Biological Diversity, 22 (6).
Literature cited 2: Alongi D.M. (2011). Carbon payments for mangrove conservation: Ecosystem constraints and uncertainties of sequestration potential. Environmental Science & Policy, 14 (4)462-470.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2010.11.004. Alongi D.M, Boto K.G. and Robertson A.I. (1992). Nitrogen and phosphorus cycles. In A.I. Robertson & D.M. Alongi (Eds0.Tropical Mangrove ecosystems (pp. 251-292.). American Geophysical union. htps://doi.org/10.1029/CE041p0251

ID: 66540
Title: Current forest fires in Uttarakhand and retrospective on Covid-19 lockdown-A geographical perspective through the Google Earth Engine (2010-2024)
Author: Priyanka Puri
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (9) Sep 25 Pg No. 815-822 (2025)
Subject: Current forest fires in Uttarakhand and retrospective on Covid-19 lockdown-A geographical perspective through the Google Earth Engine (2010-2024)
Keywords: COVID-19,Pandemic, Fires, GEE, Human-activity, Uttarakhand, Vegetation
Abstract: Raging forest fires have become a characteristics feature of mountainous regions of India. Constant information is received on these as damaging the existing the existing ecology but no direct works are observed in literature for analyzing the geographical dimensions of the issue. This is aggravated by inaccessibility of the regions experiencing them. The state of Uttarakhand is glaring example of forest fire activity which is majorly attributed to anthropogenic factors along with certain natural causes. Studying these through a spatial and temporal perspective can provide a very crucial insight into their occurrence and also the role of economic activities in impacting them. While the earth is reeling severely under the negative externalities generated by human actions, the COVID-19 pandemic marks a distinct phase of 'no-human activity' across the world. This has, in turn, lead to unimagineable outcomes on natural features and processes. In the light of economic layoffs, examinations can further help in outlining indirectly and directly whether lockdown was effective enough in curbing issues such as these and also in observing if such outcomes are independent of human operations. The Google Earth Engine leads itself as a useful and latest technology to analyse the inaccessible phenomena of forest fires and is attempted here. To make the observation more representative, an extended time period is taken for a comparative analysis. Results from about 1000 satellite imageries and 89,294 fire detections from 2010-2024 indicated that forest fires exhibited an unprecendented decline in space and time for Uttarakhand during the lockdown period, clearly supporting the fact that human activities are mainly responsible for this problematic issue for the state's environment.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Amador-Jimenez M., Millner N., Palmer C, Pennington R.T. and Silleci L. (2020).The unintended impact of Colombia's COVID19 lockdown on forest fires. Environmental and Resource Economics, 76 (4): 1081-1105.https://doi.org/10.1007/S10640-020-00501-5/FIGURES/16 Banerjee P. (2021).MODIS-FIRMS and ground-truthing-based wildfire likelihood mapping of Sikkim Himalaya using machine learning algorithms. Natural Hazards, 110(2):899-935.https://doi.org/10.1007/S11069-021-04973-6.
Literature cited 2: Cache T.S (2022). The different types of wildland fires. Retrieved 2022, from https://www.supplycache.com/https://www.supplycache.com/blogs/news/he-different-types-of-wild,and fires Calgary O.U. (2019). Forest Fires. Retrieved 2022, from https://eneergyeducation.ca:https://eneergyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Forest_fire#~text=There%20are%20three%20types%20of,crown%20fires%20and%20surface%20fires.

ID: 66539
Title: Frozen in the treetops: DNA evidence reveals the enigmatic Malabar spiny tree mouse as a living fossil of the Western Ghats
Author: A. Shabnam , S. S. Talmale , Muhamed Jafer Palot , K. A. Subramanian and K. P. Dinesh
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 (8) 25 October 25 739-740 (2025)
Subject: Frozen in the treetops: DNA evidence reveals the enigmatic Malabar spiny tree mouse as a living fossil of the Western Ghats
Keywords: Eocene, endemic, phylogenetics, Platacanthomys, Platacanthomyidae, relic forest.
Abstract: In 1859, the Malabar spiny tree mouse, Platacanthomys lasiurus Blyth, was originally described from Mundakayam in the Kottayam district of Kerala. This small rodent, endemic to the montane forests of the Western Ghats, India, has long intrigued researchers and systematists. Despite substantial studies on the species in the past, the taxonomic classification remained uncertain and debatable for more than a century. This ambiguity has only recently been resolved through integrative taxonomic studies, which have revealed its systematic position. The present study elucidates the evolutionary history of this monotypic lineage, highlights its significance as a unique relic species and sheds light on the urgency of its conservation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Jansa, S. A., Giarla, T. C. and Lim, B. K., The phylogenetic position of the rodent genus Typhlomys and the geographic origin of Muroidea. J. Mammal., 2009, 90(5), 1083–1094; https://doi.org/10.1644/08- MAMM-A-318.1. Talmale, S. S., Shabnam, A., Palot, M. J., Subramanian, K. A. and Dinesh, K. P., Phylogenetic position of Malabar Spiny Tree Mouse (Platacanthomys lasiurus Blyth, 1859) (Rodentia) and resurrection of the family Typhlomyidae. J. Anim. Divers., 2024, 6(3), 45-54; http://dx.doi.org/10.22034/JAD.2024.6.3.4.
Literature cited 2: Alston, E. R., On the classification of the order Glires. Proc. Sci. Meet. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1876, 1876, 61–98; https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1096- 3642.1876.tb02543.x. Giarla, T. C., In Handbook of the Mammals of the World, Vol. 7: Rodents II (eds D. E. Wilson, T. E. Lacher Jr. and R. A. Mittermeier), Lynx Edicions, Barcelona, 2017, pp. 102–107.

ID: 66538
Title: Computational modelling and high-throughput virtual screening identify ZINC000085626889 as a promising natural lead against influenza A virus
Author: Ashish Kumar and Kalyani Deshpande
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 (8) 25 October 25 732 -738 (2025)
Subject: Computational modelling and high-throughput virtual screening identify ZINC000085626889 as a promising natural lead against influenza A virus
Keywords: Computational modelling, high-throughput virtual screening, influenza A virus, ZINC natural product library.
Abstract: The accelerating resistance of influenza A virus (IAV) has underscored the urgent need for alternative therapeutic molecules. The present study aims to leverage computational methodologies to predict novel natural products with a high affinity for viral nucleoprotein (NP). The study initiated an in-silico search for the crystallographic structure of NP, pinpointing a putative drug-binding pocket. Subsequently, employing computational modelling and high-throughput virtual screening techniques, small molecules from the Zinc natural product library were systematically screened against the identified drug-binding pocket. Molecular dynamics simulations were then conducted for the shortlisted small molecules complexed with the target NP, focusing on crucial amino acids to evaluate binding energy and stability. The investigation led to the identification of ZINC000085626889, a natural product demonstrating superior binding energy and stability compared to nucleozin. Molecular dynamics simulations highlighted the efficacy of ZINC000085626889 in hampering viral proliferation, positioning it as a promising lead molecule for further development. In conclusion, the present study provides valuable insights into the potential of ZINC000085626889 as a lead molecule for combating the influenza A virus. The identified natural product exhibits enhanced efficacy compared to nucleozin, showcasing its promise in impeding viral proliferation. Further experimental validation and development of ZINC000085626889 could contribute significantly to the development of novel and effective therapeutics against IAV.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Cianci, C., Gerritz, S. W., Deminie, C. and Krystal, M., Influenza nucleoprotein: promising target for antiviral chemotherapy. Antivir. Chem. Chemother., 2012, 23, 77–91. Turrell, L., Lyall, J. W., Tiley, L. S., Fodor, E. and Vreede, F. T., The role and assembly mechanism of nucleoprotein in influenza A virus ribonucleoprotein complexes. Nat. Commun., 2013, 4, 1591.
Literature cited 2: Noda, T., Native morphology of influenza virions. Front. Microbiol., 2011, 2, 269. White, K. M. et al., Broad spectrum inhibitor of influenza A and B viruses targeting the viral nucleoprotein. ACS Infect. Dis., 2018, 4, 146–57.

ID: 66537
Title: Assessing the carbon sequestration role of sapota orchards in India
Author: A. N. Ganeshamurthy, T. R. Rupa , K. Alivelu , S. Rajendiran , A. Sathish and R. H. Laxman
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 (8) 25 October 25 725 -731 (2025)
Subject: Assessing the carbon sequestration role of sapota orchards in India
Keywords: Carbon sequestration, litter and weed biomass, sapota litter, sapota orchards, soil carbon stocks, tree biomass.
Abstract: Estimating carbon stocks in fruit orchards is essential for reporting to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. The present study focuses on assessing the carbon stocks (CS) of sapota orchards in India. Using a specialised allometric equation for grafted sapota, extensive tree, litter, weed and soil samples were collected from regions grouped by climate and dominant sapota varieties. Carbon storage was calculated by multiplying regional sapota areas by estimated carbon pools. The Bay Islands had the highest soil carbon stocks (124.64 t ha-1), while Haryana recorded the lowest (60.33 t ha-1). On a national scale, soil carbon comprised 75.47% of total carbon sequestered, while tree biomass contributed 24.53%. Across India, sapota orchards, averaging 50 years of age, have sequestered 11.01 million tonnes of carbon. This significant contribution underscores sapota’s environmental value, despite ranking eighth among fruit crops in India. These findings provide critical insights into sapota’s role in carbon storage and its potential in climate change mitigation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Boonen, R., How to feed and not to eat our world?. 2015; https://lirias.kuleuven.be/1717149. Ganeshamurthy, A. N., Ravindra, V., Venugopalan, R., Mathiazhagan, M. and Bhatt, R. M., Biomass distribution and development of allometric equations for non-destructive estimation of carbon sequestration in grafted mango trees. J. Agric. Sci., 2016, 8(8), 201–211
Literature cited 2: Ganeshamurthy A. N. et al., Development of allometric equations for grafted sapota through destructive tree sampling for non-destructive estimation of tree biomass for carbon sequestration. Curr. Sci., 2023, 127(10), 1227. Kumar, A. and Sharma, M. P., Assessment of carbon stocks in forest and its implications on global climate change. J. Mater. Environ. Sci., 2015, 6, 3548–3564.

ID: 66536
Title: Carbon sequestration potential of chinar
Author: Moineivah Haokip, K. N. Qaisar , P. A. Khan , Anup Raj and Akhlaq A. Wani
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 (8) 25 October 25 719-724 (2025)
Subject: Carbon sequestration potential of chinar
Keywords: Above-ground biomass, carbon stock, climate change
Abstract: The study of biomass and carbon estimation of chinar (Platanus orientalis L.) is very limited. In the present study, four diameter classes of chinar are taken, namely 100–200 cm diameter at breast height (dbh), 201–300 cm dbh, 301–400 cm dbh and >400 cm dbh respectively. The carbon sequestration potential was estimated using the non-destructive method of biomass and carbon estimation by applying the biomass expansion factor. The chinar tree of the >400 cm diameter class can store up to 887.31 tonnes of carbon per tree in their above-ground biomass and 218.96 tonnes of carbon per tree in their below-ground biomass besides holding a significant soil organic carbon density of 74.2 tonnes/ha. The carbon sequestration potential increases with increasing diameter classes
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adam, D., Royal society disputes the value of carbon sink. Nature, 2001, 412, 108. Kumar, J. I. N., Sajish, R. R., Kumar, R. N. and Patel, K., Biomass and net primary productivity in three different aged Butes monosperma forest ecosystems in Western India. Iranica J. Energy Environ., 2001, 2(1), 1–7.
Literature cited 2: Sage, R. F., Was low atmospheric CO2 during the Pleistocene a limiting factor for the origin of agriculture? Global Change Biol., 1995, 1, 93–106. Lal, M. and Singh, R., Carbon sequestration potential of Indian forests. Environ. Monitor. Assess., 2000, 60, 315–327.

ID: 66535
Title: Luminescence chronology of sediments from the prehistoric civilisation sites along the Vaigai river, India
Author: S. Sathiyaseelan, Kartika Goswami , Naveen Chauhan , S. Bhalamurugan , S. Vijayan , Ragav Ramachandran , B. Asaithambi , R. Sivanandham and Anil Bhardwaj
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 (8) 25 October 25 712 -718 (2025)
Subject: Luminescence chronology of sediments from the prehistoric civilisation sites along the Vaigai river, India
Keywords: Climate change, Keezhadi, Sangam age, urban settlement, Vaigai river
Abstract: The banks of the ephemeral Vaigai river of southern India have shed light on the history of Tamil Nadu, including the pre-Sangam and Sangam eras. The plains on the banks of the Vaigai river were the cradle of ancient history, culture, urban settlements, agriculture and industries that flourished here between 6 and 3 BCE. Recent excavations at Keezhadi village by the archaeological department exposed structures built from bricks and advanced drainage systems of the historical past. They are buried under flood deposits of sand, silt and clay. Luminescence geochronology of quartz in the sediments suggests that flooding and burial of structures occurred ca. 1140 years ago.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Gangal, K., Vahia, M. N. and Adhikari, R., Spatio-temporal analysis of the Indus urbanization. Curr. Sci,, 2010, 98(6), 846–852. Macklin, M. G. and Lewin, J., The rivers of civilization. Quat. Sci. Rev., 2015, 114, 228–244.
Literature cited 2: Ginau, A., Schiestl, R. and Wunderlich, J., Integrative geoarchaeological research on settlement patterns in the dynamic landscape of the northwestern Nile delta. Quat. Int., 2019, 511, 51–67. Giosan, L. et al., Fluvial landscapes of the Harappan civilization. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A., 2012, 109(26), 1688–1694.

ID: 66534
Title: Growth trend of urban water supply services users in Indian cities
Author: Rajat Singh and Vinay Mohan Das
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 (8) 25 October 25 700 -711 (2025)
Subject: Growth trend of urban water supply services users in Indian cities
Keywords: Accessibility, compound average growth rate, non-piped water, piped water, safe drinking water.
Abstract: This article is based on the data from the World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, database on urban drinking water supply. It encompasses both the global trend and the trend in India regarding urban water supply between 2000 and 2020, and provides a projection for India till 2040 based on the compound average growth rate (CAGR). The data analysis reveals that although progress has been made in providing safe drinking water to a larger proportion of households, a significant percentage of households still have limited access to safe drinking water. In India, the provision of piped water supply is the responsibility of the urban local bodies (ULBs). However, the ULBs have often been unable to provide services to all parts of the city, which has led to the development of unsustainable alternative sources by local communities. The present study also finds that the proportion of non-piped water users has increased by 22.5%, with a CAGR of 4.65% from the year 2000, and it is projected that in 2040, 44.26% of India’s urban population will not have access to municipal piped water supply. If the current growth rate of non-piped water users continues, it is projected that by 2050, India will have more non-piped water users than piped water users. This prediction calls for appropriate action to ensure sustainable and equitable access to safe drinking water in the coming years. This article recommends a prescriptive growth rate for piped and non-piped water use, with a focus on reducing the growth rate of non-piped water users and increasing the growth rate of piped water users. Achieving this will require significant investment in infrastructure, policy interventions, and public awareness campaigns. The article offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the water sector to enhance access to safe drinking water in urban areas of India.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Aberilla, J. M., Gallego-Schmid, A., Stamford, L. and Azapagic, A., Environmental assessment of domestic water supply options for remote communities. Water Res., 2020, 175, 115687; doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.115687. UNICEF and WHO, Integrating Water Quality Testing into Household Surveys: Thematic Report on Drinking Water, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020; https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240014022
Literature cited 2: Nallathiga, R., Service costs and their recovery in urban water and sanitation services: a study of select urban areas in Andhra Pradesh. In International Conference on Decentralised Water and Wastewater Management in Asia, 20–22 November 2012, International Water Association, Nagpur, India, 2012; doi: 10.13140/2.1.3841.1523. Bhagat, R. B., Access to civic amenities among urban poor in small cities and towns in India. 2013; https://www.researchgate.net/publication/255950408_Access_to_ Civic_Amenities_among_Urban_Poor_in_Small_Cities_and_Towns _in_India.

ID: 66533
Title: Enhanced extraction and UPLC characterisation of chlorogenic acid and naringenin from Curcuma amada using L–L partitioning
Author: Nikita Bindal and Sujata Mohanty
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 (8) 25 October 25 691 -699 (2025)
Subject: Enhanced extraction and UPLC characterisation of chlorogenic acid and naringenin from Curcuma amada using L–L partitioning
Keywords: Chlorogenic acid, Curcuma amada, Kupchan fraction, polyphenols, TLC, UPLC
Abstract: The family Zingiberaceae has established itself as a prime component in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries; however, Curcuma amada is still poorly investigated for its bioactive compounds and therapeutic potential. The present study explored both methanol crude and methanol fraction (Kupchan liquid-liquid (L–L) partitioning) of C. amada rhizome for the presence of polyphenols using standard assay and advanced chromatographic method, eg., ultraperformance liquid chromatography (UPLC). The results revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid and naringenin, along with seven other polyphenols, only in the methanol fraction. These are therapeutically important polyphenols that require further study.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Samtiya, M., Aluko, R. E., Dhewa, T. and Moreno-Rojas, J. M., Potential health benefits of plant food-derived bioactive components: an overview. Foods, 2021, 10(4), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10040839. Sun, W. and Shahrajabian, M. H., Therapeutic potential of phenolic compounds in medicinal plants—natural health products for human health. Molecules, 2023, 28(4), 1845; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28041845
Literature cited 2: Witkamp, R. F., Bioactive components in traditional foods aimed at health promotion: a route to novel mechanistic insights and lead molecules?. Annu. Rev. Food Sci. Technol., 2022, 13, 315–336; https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-food-052720-092845. Banwo, K. et al., Functional importance of bioactive compounds of foods with potential health benefits: a review on recent trends. Food Biosci., 2021, 43, 101320. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fbio.2021.101320

ID: 66532
Title: M6a modification pattern-based gene signature can predict different tumour immune microenvironment in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Author: Xinjing Zhang , Jiajia Liang , Zenghua Deng , Jianfei Chen and Lei Gong
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 (8) 25 October 25 682 -690 (2025)
Subject: M6a modification pattern-based gene signature can predict different tumour immune microenvironment in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Keywords: Gene signature, immunotherapy, m6A, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, risk-score, tumour microenvironment
Abstract: The present study aimed to characterise an m6A modification pattern-based gene signature in the tumour microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. We evaluated m6A modification patterns across 988 pancreatic adenocarcinoma samples using 23 m6A regulators and assessed their correlation with TME immune cell infiltration profiles. A prognostic m6A risk-score incorporating three genes (OGN, IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3) was developed to predict m6A modification patterns and associated TME subtypes. The low-risk-score phenotype correlated with an inflamed TME and favourable clinical outcomes. Comprehensive characterisation of m6A modification patterns may inform the development of effective immunotherapy strategies.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Gourgou-Bourgade, S. et al., Impact of FOLFIRINOX compared with gemcitabine on quality of life in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer: results from the PRODIGE 4/ACCORD 11 randomized trial. J. Clin. Oncol., 2013, 31, 23–29. Von Hoff, D. D. et al., Increased survival in pancreatic cancer with nabpaclitaxel plus gemcitabine. N. Engl. J. Med., 2013, 369, 1691–1703.
Literature cited 2: Henriksen, A., Dyhl-Polk, A., Chen, I. and Nielsen, D., Checkpoint inhibitors in pancreatic cancer. Cancer Treat Rev., 2019, 78, 17–30. Zhu, Y. et al., Tissue-resident macrophages in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma originate from embryonic hematopoiesis and promote tumor progression. Immunity, 2017, 47

ID: 66531
Title: Transforming food, land and water systems to combat climate crisis in Ladakh, India
Author: M. S. Kanwar, A. R. Chichaghare and Changchuk Lamo
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 (8) 25 October 25 677 -679 (2025)
Subject: Transforming food, land and water systems to combat climate crisis in Ladakh, India
Keywords: None
Abstract: The one-day workshop on transforming food, land and water (FLW) systems aimed to present a thematic roadmap to catalyse FLW transformation in the Indian cold arid region through five synergistic themes: (i) Climate-smart food and nutrition system transformation; (ii) Watershed-based resilience and integrated natural resource management; (iii) Carbon farming and climate financing for smallholders; (iv) FLW nexus and integrated planning tools; (v) Frontier technologies for climate-resilient FLW systems. This event was organised as a precursor to the upcoming National Summit on ‘Transforming India’s Agriculture, Horticulture, Dairy, Fisheries and Processing through Technology and Innovation’. The deliberations were followed by an in-depth, Ladakh-specific discussion leading to concrete policy inputs based on scientific research, local needs, field demonstrations, and ongoing programmes. These insights will serve as the basis for contributions to the national-level summit. The workshop brought together representatives from the ICAR-CAZRI, School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, University of Ladakh, Leh and Kargil; Agriculture Department, Leh; Command Area Development, Leh; India Meteorological Department, Leh; G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Leh; progressive farmers and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Leh, Kargil, Zanskar and Nyoma to represent every region and stakeholders in Ladakh region who actively participated in the discussions hosted at Regional Research Station.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2: