ID: 65974
Title: Evaluating environmental and remote sensing factors in theileriosis risk prediction for bovine in Kerala, India: navigating post-flood climate dynamics
Author: Kuralayanapalya Puttahonnappa Suresh, Siju Susan Jacob*, Pinaki Prasad Sengupta, Tarushree Bari, Dikshitha Jagadish, Paramanandham Krishnamoorthy and Sharanagouda Shiddanagouda Patil
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 352-358 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Evaluating environmental and remote sensing factors in theileriosis risk prediction for bovine in Kerala, India: navigating post-flood climate dynamics
Keywords: Disease prediction, Kerala, livestock, machine learning, outbreak, theileriosis.
Abstract: Theileriosis, a parasitic disease, caused by Theileria spp.
and transmitted through ticks, poses a significant threat
to livestock, leading to elevated morbidity and mortality
rates. This study investigated the incidence trend of
theileriosis in Kerala, India, over three years (2019–21).
Notably, the research unveiled a substantial upsurge in
bovine theileriosis cases within Kerala during this
period, partly attributed to the state’s severe flooding
and landslides in 2018, triggered by incessant monsoon
rains. The present study envisaged pinpointing the risk
factors underlying the prevalence of theileriosis in
Kerala. Employing linear discriminant analysis, key
environmental and remote sensing variables influencing the disease’s incidence were identified. Subsequently,
these risk factors underwent climate disease modelling,
leading to the creation of risk maps. To predict areas
sensitive to theileriosis outbreaks in Kerala, two regression models and nine machine learning models were
employed. The gradient boost and random forest models
demonstrated the most accurate fit among these. The
study also estimated the basic reproduction number
(R0), which ranged from 0.89 to 1.8. This value indicates a high potential for Theileria spp. transmission
within the study area. Consequently, the research outcomes offer valuable insights into pinpointing high risk
theileriosis locations in livestock in Kerala.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Chamuah, J. K. et al., First report of Ikeda genotype of Theileria
orientalis in Mithun (Bos frontalis) from northeastern hilly region
of India. Parasitol. Res., 2024, 123, 36.
Nene, V., Kiara, H., Lacasta, A., Pelle, R., Svitek, N. and Steinaa,
L., The biology of Theileria parva and control of East Coast fever –
current status and future trends. Ticks Tick-Borne Dis., 2016, 7,
549–564.
Literature cited 2: Sivakumar, T., Hayashida, K., Sugimoto, C. and Yokoyama, N.,
Evolution and genetic diversity of Theileria. Infect. Genet. Evol.,
2014, 27, 250–263.
Tiwari, A., Singh, N. K., Singh, H., Jyoti, Bhat, S. A. and Rath, S.
S., Prevalence of Theileria annulata infection in Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum collected from crossbred cattle of Ludhiana, Punjab. J. Parasit, Dis., 2015, 39, 57–61
ID: 65973
Title: Prediction of drought – risk zones in Tamil Nadu using historical and global climate model data
Author: B. Santhoshkumar , N. K. Sathyamoorthy, V. Geethalakshmi , Ga Dheebakaran , K. Boomiraj , N. Manikandan and M. Selva Kumar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 340-351 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Prediction of drought – risk zones in Tamil Nadu using historical and global climate model data
Keywords: Drought events, drought forecast, Indian Meteorological Department, standardized precipitation index
Abstract: Global climate change has increased the events and intensity of extreme events. Tamil Nadu is located in the
southern peninsula region of India, which has benefitted
both from the south-west monsoon (SWM) and the
north-east monsoon (NEM). Although variations in the
monsoon pattern increased events of drought. The
IMD gridded (1991–2020) and projected global climate
model data (EC_Earth3_Veg_LR) were used to anticipate the drought-risk-prone zones over Tamil Nadu by
using the standardized precipitation index. During
both the SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios of the near
(2021–2050) and mid (2051–2080) century periods, an
increase in rainfall amount was expected with a high
coefficient of variation (CV) across the region. The
CVs of the future SWM and NEM seasons were expected
to range from 20% to 60% and 25% to 50% respectively. Increased variability often leads to an increase
in number of drought events. Regardless of scenarios,
the southern zone was expected to experience more
drought events, followed by the northwestern zone
during SWM. Drought events during the NEM were
expected to increase in northeastern zone districts.
Changes in cropping patterns and policymaking for future risk-prone areas were undertaken as a proactive
response to mitigate potential agricultural challenges.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: IPCC, Working Group I, Contribution to the IPCC Fifth Assessment
Report on Climate Change: The Physical Science Basis – Summary
for Policymakers, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,
Stockholm, 2013, pp. 72–74.
Lesk, C., Rowhani, P. and Ramankutty, N., Influence of extreme
weather disasters on global crop production. Nature, 2016, 529(7584),
84–87
Literature cited 2: National Research Council, Adapting to the impacts of climate
change, National Academies Press, 2011.
Agha, K. A., Feldman, D., Hoerling, M., Huxman, T. and Lund, J.,
Water and climate: recognize anthropogenic drought. Nature, 2015,
524(7566), 409–411.
ID: 65972
Title: Evaluation of farmers’ contentment with climate resilient agricultural technologies in Telangana, India
Author: Boda Mahesh Naik, A. K. Singh , Saikat Maji , P. Venkatesan and Rohit Shelar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 333-339 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Evaluation of farmers’ contentment with climate resilient agricultural technologies in Telangana, India
Keywords: Climate change, NICRA, path analysis, resilience, technologies.
Abstract: National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture
(NICRA) is a flagship project of the Indian Council of
Agricultural Research (ICAR) to mitigate climate
change in vulnerable districts of India. The present study
assessed farmers’ satisfaction with climate-resilient agricultural technologies following their adoption in two
vulnerable districts of Telangana, India, identified under
the NICRA project. Results showed that most farmers
in the Suryapet and Khammam (62.67% and 90.00%)
districts of Telangana state expressed high satisfaction
with these technologies. Additionally, a significant
proportion had a highly favourable perception of the
technology promoters (71.33% and 82.00%), high perceived expectations (52.67% and 74.00%), high perceived
quality (58.00% and 86.00%), and a high perceived
value (68.00% and 84.00%) associated with climateresilient agricultural technologies. Importantly, the
vast majority of the farmers in both districts expressed
their intent to use these technologies when the need
arises. Path analysis revealed that variables like perceived image, perceived expectation, perceived quality
and perceived value had a significant direct impact on
satisfaction, while there was no indirect effect on behavioural intention.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: The Economic Times, Food grain output seen at record 330.5 MT in
2022–23, 26 May 2023.
Godfray, H. C. J. et al., Food security: the challenge of feeding
nine billion people. Science, 2010, 327, 812–818.
Literature cited 2: Mbow, C. et al., Food security. In Climate Change and Land: An
IPCC Special Report on Climate Change, Desertification, Land
Degradation, Sustainable Land Management, Food Security, and
Greenhouse Gas Fluxes in Terrestrial Ecosystems (eds Delmotte,
V. M. et al.), Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK and
New York, USA, 2019, pp. 437–450; doi:10.10171978/009157988.
FAO, The state of food security and nutrition in the world. Building climate resilience for food security and nutrition. Food and Agriculture Organization
ID: 65971
Title: Complete mitochondrial genome profile of Randall’s threadfin bream, Nemipterus randalli and its phylogenetic analysis
Author: Neenu Raj, Sandhya Sukumaran , Lakshmi P. Mukundan , Anjaly Jose , Sujitha Mary , K. Nisha and A. Gopalakrishnan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 322-332 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Complete mitochondrial genome profile of Randall’s threadfin bream, Nemipterus randalli and its phylogenetic analysis
Keywords: Mitogenome, Nemipterus randalli, nemipteridae, phylogeny, protein coding genes.
Abstract: We characterized the complete mitogenome of Nemipterus randalli and performed comparative mitogenomic
analysis with previously determined mitochondrial genomes belonging to the family Nemipteridae. Using Sanger
sequencing, we identified a 16,642 bp mitogenome containing 37 genes (13 protein-coding, 2 rRNA, 22 tRNA)
and a non-coding region. Its gene organization, nucleotide composition, tRNA secondary structure and codon
usage are similar to other Nemipteridae mitogenomes.
The phylogenetic analysis indicated that Nemipteridae
is a monophyletic group. The present study forms the
basis for further studies on the population genetics,
evolution and phylogeny of N. randalli and its family.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Russell, B. C., FAO species catalogue. Nemipterid fishes of the
world (Threadfin breams, Whiptail breams, Monocle breams,
Dwarf monocle breams and Coral breams) family Nemipteridae.
An annotated and illustrated catalogue of Nemipterid species
known to date, FAO Fisheries Synopsis, FAO Rome, 1990, vol. 12,
pp. 1–149.
Karuppasamy, K., Kingston, S. D., Jawahar, P. and Vidhya, V.,
Spatio-temporal variation in the diversity of threadfin breams
(Family: Nemipteridae) from Wadge Bank, South India. J. Entomol. Zool. Stud., 2018, 6, 450–454.
Literature cited 2: CMFRI, Annual Report 2018–19, 2018.
IUCN, The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN Red List
of Threatened Species, 2019; https://www.iucnredlist.org/en
ID: 65970
Title: Challenges and dynamics of athaphum: a longitudinal study of Loktak lake in northeast India
Author: Stutee Gupta, T. Dharmaraj and K. Mruthyunjaya Reddy
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 315-321 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Challenges and dynamics of athaphum: a longitudinal study of Loktak lake in northeast India
Keywords: Athaphum, Loktak, Meitei, Ramsar, spatiotemporal dynamics
Abstract: As the largest freshwater lake in the region and a designated Ramsar site, Loktak lake in northeast India
holds paramount ecological and socioeconomic significance, particularly for the indigenous Meitei community.
This study delves into the intricate spatiotemporal dynamics of a traditional fishing technique called athaphum
practised by the Meitei community in the Loktak. It
utilizes the normalized difference vegetation index derived from the remote sensing satellite images to discern the athaphum and its trend over the past three
decades (1988–2023). Our findings reveal significant
fluctuations in athaphum due to ecological, hydrological and human factors. The findings of this study enhance our understanding of the complexities involved in
safeguarding Loktak lake. They shed light on the intricate balance needed to sustain environmental integrity
and socioeconomic well-being in the Loktak region.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Taylor, K. and Lennon, J., Cultural landscapes: a bridge between
culture and nature? Int. J. Herit. Stud., 2011, 17(6), 537–554.
Brown, B. J., Hanson, M. E., Liverman, D. M. and Merideth, R.
W., Global sustainability: toward definition. Environ. Manage., 1987,
11, 713–719.
Literature cited 2: Singh, T. H. and Singh, R. K. S., Ramsar sites of India, Loktak
lake. World Wide Fund – India, New Delhi, India, 1994.
Kangabam, R. D., Boominathan, S. D. and Govindaraju, M., Ecology,
disturbance, and restoration of Loktak Lake in Indo–Burma biodiversity hotspot – an overview. NeBIO Int. J. Environ. Biodivers.,
2015, 6(2), 9–15
ID: 65969
Title: Empirical evidence for shifting cultivation’s role in indigenous food sovereignty in Manipur, Northeast India
Author: Dileep Kumar Pandey, Francis Q. Brearley , Chabungbam Victoria Devi , Nongthombam Devachandra and Mark Haominthang Lhungdim
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 307-314 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Empirical evidence for shifting cultivation’s role in indigenous food sovereignty in Manipur, Northeast India
Keywords: Agrobiodiversity, ethnic foods, indigenous food sovereignty, jhum cultivation, Northeast India.
Abstract: Indigenous food sovereignty (IFS) is pivotal in enhancing
food security and nutritional well-being and preserving governance systems and cultural practices within
indigenous communities. Despite its significance, the
literature on food sovereignty practices within Indian
tribal communities and strategies for bolstering them
remains limited. The present study draws upon primary
data collected from 97 households in Manipur, Northeast
India to address this gap. This study employs a mixedmethods research approach and systematically investigates the intricate dynamics of shifting cultivation (SC),
agrobiodiversity and their collective contributions to IFS.
Empirical findings underscore that SC provides culturally relevant food resources, thereby amplifying dietary diversity and contributing significantly to IFS.
The indigenous SC system in the present study site encompasses 32 crop species and 4 local livestock breeds,
featuring numerous landraces that ensure nutritional
security and preserve food culture. Integrating wild
edible plants from forests and fallow lands supplements
the traditional food basket, reinforcing indigenous
food culture and promoting biodiversity conservation.
This study emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between
SC-based agrobiodiversity and dietary diversity and
highlights their critical role in fortifying IFS resilience,
particularly in the context of climate change.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Forum for Food Sovereignty, Declaration of Nyéléni, 2007;
https://nyeleni.org/IMG/pdf/DeclNyeleni-en.pdf (accessed on 11
September 2023).
Gunaratne, M. S., Radin Firdaus, R. B. and Rathnasooriya, S. I.,
Climate change and food security in Sri Lanka: towards food sovereignty. Humanit
Literature cited 2: reignty. Humanit. Soc. Sci. Commun., 2021, 8(1), 229.
3. Leventon, J. and Laudan, J., Local food sovereignty for global food
security? Highlighting interplay challenges. Geoforum, 2017, 85,
23–26.
Mihesuah, D. A. and Hoover, E. (eds), Indigenous Food Sovereignty
in the United States: Restoring Cultural Knowledge, Protecting
Environments and Regaining Health, University of Oklahoma
Press, Norman, OK, USA, 2019.
ID: 65968
Title: Optimizing the impact of spray characteristics of hybrid drone on spray deposition in cotton crops
Author: P. Rajesh , A. P. Mohankumar, R. Kavitha , B. Suthakar and K. Ganesan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 297-306 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Optimizing the impact of spray characteristics of hybrid drone on spray deposition in cotton crops
Keywords: Droplet deposition density, operational parameters, spray drift analysis, UAV spraying technology, UAV system
Abstract: The effectiveness of a hybrid unmanned aerial vehicle
(UAV) for optimizing crop booster application on cotton crops (variety Co-14) at Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University is evaluated in this research. The hybrid
UAV, featuring a 12-litre sprayer tank and powered by
an internal combustion engine and brushless direct
current motor, was tested at heights of 1 and 2 m and
speeds of 3 and 4 m s
–1
. The objective was to determine
optimal parameters for maximizing droplet deposition
and minimizing spray drift. The results indicated that
at 1 m and 3 m s
–1
, the droplet density in the target area
was 148 ± 8 drops/cm2
, compared to 136 ± 4 drops/cm2
at 2 m. The volume median diameter at 1 m and 3 m s
–1
was 361 µm, and the number median diameter was
392 µm, showing higher deposition and uniform droplet
sizes at lower heights and lower speeds. Spray drift
analysis indicated reduced off-target movement at 1 m
and 3 m s
–1
, showing a non-target droplet density of
54 ± 4 drops/cm2 compared to 42 ± 6 drops/cm2 at 2 m.
The study concludes that the optimal UAV operation
parameters are 1 m height and 3 m s
–1 speed, enhancing
droplet deposition, minimizing drift, and improving
spray efficiency.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Radoglou-Grammatikis, P. et al., A compilation of UAV applications for precision agriculture. Comput. Netw., 2020, 172, 107148.
Yoshida, K. et al., Measurements of surface contamination of spray
equipment with pesticides after various methods of application. J.
Environ. Sci. Health Part B, 1990, 25(2), 169–183
Literature cited 2: Morales-Rodríguez, P. A. et al., A comparison between conventional
sprayers and new UAV sprayers: a study case of vineyards and olives
in extremadura (Spain). Agronomy, 2022, 12(6), 1307.
Wang, G. et al., Comparison of spray deposition, control efficacy
on wheat aphids and working efficiency in the wheat field of the
unmanned aerial vehicle with boom sprayer and two conventional
knapsack sprayers. Appl. Sci., 2019, 9(2), 218.
ID: 65967
Title: Mitigation of environmental pollution using cellulose-based natural rubber latex composites
Author: Amisha Verma and Sanjiv Arora
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 290-296 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Mitigation of environmental pollution using cellulose-based natural rubber latex composites
Keywords: Biodegradability, bio-fillers, mechanical properties, rubber latex
Abstract: In the modern rubber industry, the major problem is
the use of petroleum-derived chemical reinforcements
that exploit conventional sources of energy. In this review article, we have discussed the importance of some
cellulose-based reinforcements as an alternative to
harmful chemicals in rubber composites. The employment of natural cellulosic fillers not only improves
the biodegradability of rubber latex but also enhances
its mechanical and thermal properties. Such reinforced
rubber composites can be used effectively in various
sectors, i.e. food packaging, footwear, water purification and sensors. In the last, the current outlook and
future perspectives of smart rubber composites in
commercial areas are also discussed.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ahuja, S. and Arora, S., Challenges and practices for effectual
waste management during COVID-19. Curr. Sci., 2021, 121, 1281–
1287.
Leong, S. Y., Lee, S. Y., Koh, T. Y. and Ang, D. T. C., 4R of rubber
waste management: current and outlook. J. Mater. Cycles Waste
Manage., 2023, 25, 37–51.
Literature cited 2: Rashad, A. M., A comprehensive overview about recycling rubber
as fine aggregate replacement in traditional cementitious materials.
Int. J. Sustain. Built Environ., 2016, 5, 46–82.
Selvaranjan, K., Navaratnam, S., Rajeev, P. and Ravintherakumaran,
N., Environmental challenges induced by extensive use of face
masks during COVID-19: a review and potential solutions. Environ.
Challenges, 2021, 3, 100039
ID: 65966
Title: In recent years, the focus on methane (CH4) reductions in the global climate negotiations has grown significantly. The 26th session of the Conference of Parties (COP26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) urged countrie
Author: J. R. Bhatt
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 284-289 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Will the global focus on methane reduction detract from the global attempts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions?
Keywords: Climate change, CH4 vis-à-vis CO2, global food and nutritional security, small and marginal farmers, survival versus luxury emissions
Abstract: In recent years, the focus on methane (CH4) reductions in the global climate negotiations has grown
significantly. The 26th session of the Conference of Parties (COP26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) urged countries to consider further actions to
reduce non-carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions, including CH4, by 2030, which was reiterated
by COP27 and COP28. This article discusses how an obsessive focus on CH4 reduction is a serious
distraction from the real challenge of limiting and reducing CO2 emissions and masks the inability
of developed countries to meet their commitments. Further, even with regard to reducing CH4 emissions, the article points out that these efforts need to be placed within national contexts and circumstances. In particular, CH4 emission reductions need to focus on energy, industry, and waste sector
emissions rather than the agriculture sector to ensure that there are no adverse consequences for
developmental imperatives such as protecting and enhancing small farmer livelihoods and ensuring
food security. In this context, the article argues that India’s actions on CH4 are entirely consistent
both with her national priorities and circumstances and with the foundational principles of the
UNFCCC, which prioritize the importance of poverty alleviation and sustainable development for
developing countries.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: IPCC, Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge,
United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA, 2021; doi:10.1017/
9781009157896.001.
2. IPCC, Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (eds Solomon, S. et
al.), Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY,
USA, 2007.
Literature cited 2: Gütschow, J. et al., The PRIMAP-hist national historical emissions
time series. Earth Syst. Sci. Data, 2016, 8, 571–603.
MoEFCC, India’s Third Biennial Update Report to the UNFCCC.
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government
of India (GoI), 2021, pp. 1–501.
ID: 65965
Title: Cause of ground subsidence in Machhlipatnam region
Author: Shubham Rajewar, Akarsh Asoka, K. M. Sreejith, Ritesh Agrawal, N. Puviarasan, K. C. Sai Krishnan Mudit Mathur, Kalpna Gahalaut, Vineet k. Gahalaut
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 281-283 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Cause of ground subsidence in Machhlipatnam region
Keywords: None
Abstract: Subsidence in coastal (or near coastal) regions is a major hazard1
. Such regions are
becoming more vulnerable in view of the
climate change and rising sea levels2
. It
is necessary to identify the regions susceptible to land subsidence using various methods, recognize the cause of subsidence and
adopt measures to prevent it. There are
several regions or cities in India which are
witnessing land subsidence, e.g. Chandigarh3,4, Delhi5–7
, Kolkata8
, Gandhinagar9
,
Cuttack, Surat, Kochi, Chennai10. In this
correspondence, we report that Machhlipatnam, a municipal corporation of Krishna
district in Andhra Pradesh, ~6 km from the
east coast and ~40 km from the Krishna
river, with a population of 2.3 lakh (as per
the 2011 census), is experiencing subsidence
at an alarming rate of ~10 mm/year since
2017.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Davydzenka, T., Tahmasebi, P. and
Shokri, N., Geophys. Res. Lett., 2024, 51,
e2023GL104497; https://doi.org/10.1029/
2023GL104497.
Shirzaei, M., Freymueller, J., Törnqvist, T.
E., Galloway, D. L., Dura, T. and Minderhoud, P. S. J., Nat. Rev. Earth Environ.,
2021, 2(1), 40–58; https://doi.org/10.1038/
s43017-020-00115-x
Literature cited 2: Kim, J., Lin, S.-Y., Singh, T. and Singh, R.
P., IEEE Transac. Geosci. Remote Sensing,
2023, 61, 4505715.
Reshi, A. R., Sandhu, H. A. S., Cherubini,
C. and Tripathi, A., Water, 2023, 15, 1206;
https://doi.org/10.3390/w15061206.
ID: 65964
Title: Transforming earth science and engineering: the power of artificial intelligence, data science and machine learning
Author: R. Sajeev
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 279-280 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Transforming earth science and engineering: the power of artificial intelligence, data science and machine learning
Keywords: None
Abstract: In the ever-evolving realm of science and
engineering, technological advancements
consistently reshape our understanding and
interaction with the world. A significant
transformation in recent years involves the
seamless integration of artificial intelligence
(AI), data science and machine learning
(ML) into the field of earth science and
engineering. These state-of-the-art technologies are revolutionizing our capacity to
analyse extensive datasets, make predictions and devise sustainable solutions to
address intricate environmental challenges.
Earth science encompasses disciplines such
as geology, climate science, meteorology,
oceanography, and environmental science,
all focused on understanding the earth’s
systems and processes. These fields collectively study the solid earth, atmospheric
phenomena, oceanic processes and environmental interactions to elucidate the planet’s
complex dynamics. Traditionally, researchers in these fields have leaned from labour intensive and constrained manual methods
for data collection and analysis. The advent of AI, data science and ML has ushered in a new era marked by heightened
efficiency and precision.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Patel, N., Prasad, P. and Roy, P. S., J. Environ. Manage., 2020, 259, 109649.
Roy, P. S., Joshi, P. K. and Singh, S., Remote Sensing Environ., 2019, 231, 11125
Literature cited 2: Ramu, D. A., George, J. P. and Rajeevan,
M., Clim. Dyn., 2018, 52, 5403–5415.
Ghosh, S., Misra, V. and Bhattacharya, S.,
Sci. Total Environ., 2020, 742, 140405.
ID: 65963
Title: Attribution in substance abuse and dependence: does it matter?
Author: Vasudha Singh and Geeta Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 278-279 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Attribution in substance abuse and dependence: does it matter?
Keywords: None
Abstract: Drug use disorders are associated with
significant levels of disease (morbidity)
and disability. They also constitute a burden on national resources and cause immeasurable human suffering. The impact
of the burden is immense and manifold.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)1
, 5.4% of the world’s overall
illness burden is attributed to alcohol and
illegal substance use. Approximately twelve
million users inject drugs, and an estimated
1.3 million suffer from both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Hepatitis C.
Management of this immense burden is a
herculean task. It includes, in addition to
pharmacotherapy, a host of psychosocial
interventions which are effective in preventing relapse and rehabilitation of individuals
with substance dependence. To mention a
few, they are motivational interviewing,
cognitive behavioural therapy and relapse
prevention treatment2
. But whatever the
management approach, attribution plays a
vital role in understanding substance dependence from varied perspectives. It has been
established that factors related to attribution
impact rates of substance use, as well as the
effectiveness and outcomes of treatment.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: WHO, Global Health Observatory (GHO)
data, resources for the prevention and
treatment of substance use disorders; www.
who.int/gho/substance_abuse/en/ (accessed
on 13 January 2024).
Smedslund, et al., Motivational interviewing for substance abuse, The Cochrane Library, 11 May 2011
Literature cited 2: Fiorentine, R. and Hillhouse, M. P., Subst.
Use Misuse, 2000, 35, 367–397.
Kingree, J. B., Sullivan, B. F. and Thompson, M. P., J. Psychoact. Drugs, 1999,
31(2), 129–135.
ID: 65962
Title: Time to move to higher gears for better disaster management
Author: K. Lenin Babu and K. B. Ramappa
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 275-277 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Time to move to higher gears for better disaster management
Keywords: None
Abstract: Since the 2005 National Disaster Management Act, India has improved disaster management, notably reducing
deaths through early warning systems. However, economic losses from disasters are rising. Shifting to impact based forecasting could enhance responses by predicting specific impacts, like flooded areas, enabling targeted
actions and better disaster management.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Changnon, S. A., Pielke Jr, R. A., Changnon,
D., Sylves, R. T. and Pulwarty, R., Bull. Am.
Meteorol. Soc., 2000, 81(3), 437–442.
WMO, WMO guidelines on multi-hazard
impact-based forecast and warning services.
WMODoc, 1150, 2015, p. 34.
Literature cited 2: EM-DAT, CRED/UCLouvain, Brussels,
Belgium, 2024; www.emdat.be (accessed
on 12 April 2024)
ID: 65961
Title: Indiscriminate pesticide use for fishing in the River Ganga raises alarm
Author: Ajoy Saha, Archisman Ray, Vikas Kumar, Kausik Mondal and Basanta Kumar Das
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 273-275 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: Indiscriminate pesticide use for fishing in the River Ganga raises alarm
Keywords: None
Abstract: The usage of synthetic pyrethroid pesticides in harvesting crustaceans and their impact on vast open water systems
have been studied less. Here, we briefly review the rampant use of pesticides targeting lucrative giant freshwater
prawn Macrobrachium spp. in the lower stretch of the River Ganga in West Bengal, India. This is practised
primarily by illegal fishers, releasing commercially available liquid pesticides into the river water. Fish caught
by applying such toxic chemicals can be dangerous for human consumption. In addition, the irreversible adverse
impacts of this illegal fishing on aquatic ecosystems warrant stringent action plans by the government and environmental agencies to protect the aquatic flora and fauna
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . Dulal, H. M.; https://www.ittefaq.com.bd/635-
509/সুন্দরবনের-গহিনে-অবাধে-বিষ-প্রয়োগে-
মাছ-শিকার (accessed on 14 March 2023).
2. Betts, J. T., Mendoza Espinoza, J. F., Dans,
A. J., Jordan, C. A., Mayer, J. L. and Urquhart, G. R., Sustainability, 2020, 12(23),
10152.
Literature cited 2: . Kumar, V., Multi-class pesticide analytical
method standardization their monitoring and
risk assessment in fish. Ph.D. thesis, Department of Agricultural Chemicals, Bidhan
Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur,
West Bengal, 2022.
Ganguly, S., Adhikari, A., Sadhukhan, D.,
Raut, S. S., Kumar, V. S., Nag, S. K. and Das,
B. K., Sci. Total Environ., 2023, 901, 165958
ID: 65960
Title: National conference on antimicrobial resistance held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Author: Rajendra Dobhal, Bindu Dey and Pawan Sharma
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 127 (3) 271-272 10 Aug (2024)
Subject: National conference on antimicrobial resistance held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Keywords: None
Abstract: A National Conference on ‘Antimicrobial
resistance: research priorities and action
plan’ was held at the Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU), Dehradun (Uttarakhand). The University is known for its
three decades old Medical College, Hospital and Nursing School, all set up after the
1991 Uttarkashi earthquake.
Vishwa Mohan Katoch (formerly DGICMR and presently at DHR) inaugurating
the conference, provided a fresh perspective on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as
a major health challenge from the viewpoint of the ‘One Health’ concept. He
pointed out that drug resistance was now
rotating between humans, animals, soil and
water, thereby encompassing the entire environment. Despite the existence of a
Global Action Plan and a National Action
Plan on AMR, only three Indian states
have worked towards evolving their own
State Action Plans.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2: