ID: 66415
Title: How do urban trees vary across India? a comparative analysis across ten Indian cities
Author: Satyajit Oraon, Prachi Gupta and Jayanti Ray-Mukherjee
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 (2) 158-168 25 July (2025)
Subject: How do urban trees vary across India? a comparative analysis across ten Indian cities
Keywords: City trees, flowering season, fruiting season, Sorenson’s index, urban tree pollinators.
Abstract: The present study was conducted to examine the variation in dominant tree species richness, composition,
green cover per capita, tree-species traits, and ecosystem services to understand the similarity in urban
tree distribution across 10 Indian cities. We compiled a list of 226 dominant tree species across all
10 cities. The cities showed a maximum similarity
in urban tree flora of 56% (Sorenson’s index), the
lowest being 19%. All cities displayed the dominance of faster-growing species. We emphasise that
a good mix of native vs exotic and diversity of traits
would make the urban landscapes more resilient and
resistant under unpredictable climatic conditions.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Lahoti, S., Lahoti, A. and Saito, O., Benchmark assessment of recreational public urban green space provisions: a case of typical urbanizing Indian City, Nagpur. Urban For. Urban Green., 2019, 44, 126424.
Govindarajulu, D., Urban green space planning for climate adaptation
in Indian cities. Urban Clim., 2014, 10, 35–41.
Literature cited 2: Maas, J., Verheij, R. A., Groenewegen, P. P., de Vries, S. and
Spreeuwenberg, P., Green space, urbanity, and health: how strong is
the relation? J. Epidemiol. Community Health, 2006, 60, 587–592.
Camacho-Cervantes, M., Schondube, J. E., Castillo, A. and
MacGregor-Fors, I., How do people perceive urban trees? assessing
likes and dislikes in relation to the trees of a city. Urban Ecosyst.,
2014, 17, 761–773
ID: 66414
Title: Understanding chlorophyll dynamics in aquatic ecosystems in Bay of Bengal
Author: Hari Warrior and P. V. Nagaman
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 (2) 151-157 25 July (2025)
Subject: Understanding chlorophyll dynamics in aquatic ecosystems in Bay of Bengal
Keywords: Chlorophyll dynamics, dynamical system, fixed point.
Abstract: The present article explores the dynamics of chlorophyll concentration in aquatic ecosystems of the Bay
of Bengal, emphasising its critical role in supporting phytoplankton populations and, consequently, the
health of marine environments. The study presents a
chlorophyll dynamics model governed by a differential equation that incorporates intrinsic growth rates,
carrying capacity and loss processes. A significant
finding is the identification of a stable fixed point at
C = 1 mg/m3
, which represents a threshold concentration for chlorophyll. At this concentration, the system is poised for maximum fish catch, as it indicates
optimal conditions for zooplankton grazing, which
in turn supports higher trophic levels. Understanding this relationship is also vital for effective ecosystem management and predicting algal blooms, thereby
contributing to sustainable fisheries and aquaculture
practices. The implications of these findings underscore
the importance of monitoring chlorophyll dynamics to
maintain ecological balance and optimise fishery yields.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . Huisman, J., van Oostveen, P. and Weissing, F. J., Critical depth and
critical light: two different mechanisms for the development of phytoplankton blooms. Limnol. Oceanogr., 2004, 49(4), 1008–1018.
Monod, J., The growth of bacterial cultures. Annu. Rev. Microbiol.,
1949, 3, 371–394
Literature cited 2: Fasham, M. J. R., Ducklow, H. W. and McKelvie, S., A nitrogen-based
model of plankton dynamics in the oceanic mixed layer. J. Marine
Res., 1990, 48, 591–639.
Paerl, H. W. and Otten, T. G., Harmful cyanobacterial blooms in eutrophic waters: controls and ecological impacts. Environ. Microbiol.,
2021, 23(3), 1630–1640.
ID: 66413
Title: Alterations in 3D vectorcardiographic loop length in acute myocardial infarction patients: a quantitative study
Author: Tania Ghosal , Imran Ahmed , Soham Mukhopadhyay , Damodar Prasad Goswami , Anupam Bandyopadhyay and Arnab Sengupta
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 (2) 146-150 25 July (2025)
Subject: Alterations in 3D vectorcardiographic loop length in acute myocardial infarction patients: a quantitative study
Keywords: Myocardial infarction, QRS loop length, sling length, spatial distance, vectorcardiogram.
Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases, especially acute myocardial
infarction (AMI), are major global health concerns.
The present study focuses on the QRS loop of the
three-dimensional vectorcardiogram (VCG), a key
indicator of ventricular electrical activities. By
comparing healthy individuals and AMI patients,
we found a notable decrease in QRS loop length
among those with AMI measured using Euclidean
point-to-point distances. This shortening suggests
a clustering of vectors due to myocardial necrosis
and disrupted electrical conduction. The findings
emphasise the diagnostic value of QRS-based VCG
analysis, offering insights into cardiac electrophysiology and highlighting its promise for early detection
and predicting the prognosis of myocardial infarction.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Thygesen, K., Alpert, J. S., Jaffe, A. S., Chaitman, B. R., Bax, J. J.,
Morrow, D. A. and White, H. D., Fourth universal definition of myocardial infarction. J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., 2018, 72(18), 2231–2264;
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2018.08.1038.
Macfarlane, P. W., Renaissance in electrocardiography. Lancet,
1999, 353(9162), 1377–1379; https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-
6736(98)00406-1.
Literature cited 2: Chou, T.-C., When is the vectorcardiogram superior to the scalar
electrocardiogram? J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., 1986, 8(4), 791–799;
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0735-1097(86)80419-3.
Macfarlane, P. W. and Lawrie, T. D. V., The normal electrocardiogram and vectorcardiogram. In Comprehensive Electrocardiology
(eds. Macfarlane, P. W. et al.), Springer London, London, 2010; pp.
483–546; https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84882-046-3_13.
ID: 66412
Title: Risk to resilience: analysing barriers to cyclone vulnerability in coastal Odisha
Author: Subhakanta Mohapatra, Anil Kumar Gupta , Uma Shankar Singh and Rakesh Ranjan Thakur
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 (2) 139-145 25 July (2025)
Subject: Risk to resilience: analysing barriers to cyclone vulnerability in coastal Odisha
Keywords: Adaptation, cyclone, resilience, risk, vulnerability.
Abstract: Odisha state is situated in eastern India and has a 480
km long coastline. The coastal belt is one of the most
cyclone-vulnerable regions in India. It consists of 22
community development blocks spread across six districts. Nearly one-third of the state’s total population lives in this region. Between 1891 and 2021, the
state has been hit by 110 cyclones. Therefore, there
is a need for a detailed assessment at the micro-level
to identify cyclone vulnerability and risk. Such an assessment would help not only in planning for enhancing resilience to cyclone disasters but also in devising
better strategies and adaptive measures. The major
objectives of the study are (i) to identify the vulnerability and risk factors that need to be addressed at
the community and household levels and (ii) to assess
the status of socio-ecological resilience to cyclone vulnerability. Data for the present study were collected
from primary as well as secondary sources. Two hundred and six sample households were selected from
the cyclone-affected areas by using a stratified random
sampling technique. Major factors that made rural
households more vulnerable to cyclones were the severity of cyclone damage, income constraints, lack of banking awareness, absence of a market for selling products
and loans and migration-driven labour scarcity. These
findings would contribute to the understanding of the
vulnerability of both space and society in coastal Odisha
and thereby suggest strengthening measures to create
cyclone resilience.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: OSDMA, State Disaster Management Plan - 2019, Odisha State Disaster Management Authority, Government of Odisha, Bhubaneswar,
2019.
Mishra, M., Pattnaik, N., Kumar, M., Bhallav, D. and Mishra,
S. K., Analyzing trend of tropical cyclone activity along
Odisha coast, India. Prog. Disaster Sci., 2020, 100092;
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdisas.2020.100092.
Literature cited 2: OSDMA, State Disaster Management Plan - 2023, Odisha State Disaster Management Authority, Government of Odisha, Bhubaneswar,
2023.
Sharma, U. and Patwardhan, A., An empirical approach to assessing
generic adaptive capacity to tropical cyclone risk in coastal districts of
India. Mitig. Adapt. Strateg. Glob. Change, 2008, 13, 819-831.
ID: 66411
Title: Ensuring long-term caprock integrity in carbon capture, utilisation and storage: a comprehensive review of geo-mechanical and monitoring approaches
Author: Mohd Sadiq, Ravi Sharma, Beer Singh Bisht and Manisha Chaudhary
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 (2) 129-138 25 July (2025)
Subject: Ensuring long-term caprock integrity in carbon capture, utilisation and storage: a comprehensive review of geo-mechanical and monitoring approaches
Keywords: Climate change, carbon capture utilisation and storage, caprock integrity, environmental impact, geomechanics.
Abstract: Caprock integrity is essential for the successful implementation of carbon capture utilisation and storage
(CCUS) technologies, which are pivotal for reducing
atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and mitigating climate change. The present study examines the
role of caprock in preventing CO2 leakage, methods for
assessing and ensuring its integrity and the techniques
for monitoring its long-term stability. Caprock, typically composed of low-permeability materials such as
shale and/or anhydrite, acts as a barrier to prevent the
upward migration of CO2 from the underlying storage
reservoirs. The effectiveness of caprock in preventing
the leakage is determined by its physical and mechanical properties, including high porosity, low permeability, high mechanical strength and geochemical stability.
Case studies from projects like Sleipner and In Salah
demonstrate that effective caprock can secure CO2 for
extended periods without significant leakage.
Different methods are employed to ensure caprock
integrity. They include laboratory testing, field experiments and geo-mechanical modelling. Core sampling
and laboratory tests provide the data on caprock
properties, whereas in situ stress tests and hydraulic
fracturing experiments offer insights into the stress distribution and mechanical behaviour of the caprock formations. Numerical models coupled with fluid flow and
mechanical deformation simulations predict the impact
of CO2 injection on caprock stability. Risk assessment
and mitigation strategies, such as optimising injection
pressures and using chemical sealants, are essential for
reinforcing the caprock integrity.
The long-term stability of caprock is critical to the
sustainability of CCUS projects. Geochemical models simulate CO2–brine–rock interactions, assessing
the impact of geochemical reactions on caprock properties. Advanced monitoring technologies, including
seismic surveys, interferometric synthetic aperture
radar (InSAR) and fibre optic sensors, provide realtime data on the mechanical and chemical behaviour
of caprock. Integrated monitoring programmes from
projects like Weyburn-Midale and Otway highlight the importance of comprehensive monitoring and adaptive
management strategies.
Future research should prioritise the development
of advanced models that incorporate complex
geo-mechanical and geochemical interactions and
enhance real-time monitoring technologies. Policy
development should emphasise comprehensive
risk assessments, continuous monitoring and
international collaboration to ensure the safety
and effectiveness of CCUS projects globally.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . IPCC, Global warming of 1.5°C. An Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change Special Report (eds Masson-Delmotte, V. et al.),
World Meteorological Organization, United Nations Environment Programme, 2018; https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/.
Esparza, J., Geomechanical monitoring at CO2 storage sites with distributed fiber optic strain sensing: insights from laboratory and field
experiments. In European Geosciences Union Conference, Vienna,
Austria, 2023; doi: 10.5194/egusphere-egu23-1507.
Literature cited 2: Alvarez, A. J., Modeling caprock failure during injection
in a CO2 capture and storage project using a compositional/geochemical/geomechanical coupled numerical simulation. In
SPE Latin American and Caribbean Petroleum Engineering Conference, 14–15 June 2023, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, 2023;
doi:10.2118/213135-ms.
Shen, X., Liu, H., Lyu, X., You, L. and Zhang, W., CO2 dissolution
trapping in depleted gas reservoirs with residual-gas mixtures and bottom water. In SPE EuropEC - Europe Energy Conference, 84th EAGE
Annual Conference and Exhibition, 5–8 June 2023, Vienna, Austria,
2023; doi: 10.2118/214431-ms.
ID: 66410
Title: Marine litter assessment using remote sensing techniques – a review
Author: Kharatmole Gayathrri, Sisir Kumar Dash, Tune Usha , Palanisamy Thanabalan , Kandasami Nimalan , Thangavelu Mayamanikandan , Pravakar Mishra and Mallavarapu Venkata Ramana Murthy
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 (2) 118-128 25 July (2025)
Subject: Marine litter assessment using remote sensing techniques – a review
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, drone, marine litter, remote sensing, satellites.
Abstract: Marine litter, resulting from mismanaged waste
disposed of in aquatic environments, is a widespread
issue in marine pollution, posing significant environmental threats. Recent advancements in remote sensing technology are pivotal in marine litter studies,
enabling large-scale detection and monitoring, which
are reviewed in this article. Satellites equipped with
infrared sensors aid in detecting marine litter, and the
versatility of drones in gathering data on marine litter is
a viable approach for quantifying litter. Furthermore,
integrating remote sensing and GIS with AI technologies enhances the accuracy and efficiency of marine
litter classification, supporting decision-makers.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Jambeck, J. R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., Siegler, T. R., Perryman, M.,
Andrady, A. and Law, K. L., Plastic waste inputs from land into the
ocean. Science, 2015, 347(6223), 768–771.
GESAMP, G., Guidelines for the monitoring and assessment of plastic
litter in the ocean. GESAMP Reports Studies, 2019, No. 99, pp. 130.
Literature cited 2: Derraik, J. G., The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris: a review. Mar. Pollut. Bull., 2002, 44(9), 842–852.
Rochman, C. M., Tahir, A., Williams, S. L., Baxa, D. V., Lam, R.,
Miller, J. T. and Teh, S. J., Anthropogenic debris in seafood: plastic
debris and fibers from textiles in fish and bivalves sold for human consumption. Sci. Rep., 2015, 5(1)
ID: 66409
Title: Flax: a valuable economic crop with a boon of natural products for human welfare
Author: Alok Kumar Panda, Shatabisha Bhattacharjee, Subhojit Datta and Dipnarayan Saha
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 (2) 111-117 25 July (2025)
Subject: Flax: a valuable economic crop with a boon of natural products for human welfare
Keywords: Flax, bast fibre, commercial crop, linen, linseed
Abstract: Flax, or linseed, is a plant morphotype that produces commercially important linen fibre and oil respectively. The
domestication history of flax is understood from the documents of various ancient civilisations. Flax cultivation eventually
spread across the globe over time based on its selective products. Flaxseed and oils are recognised for their healthenhancing attributes owing to elevated contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including α-linolenic acid and lignans.
Among its other diverse uses, flax fibre is significant in the textile industry. Research on flax is advancing in the areas of
molecular genetics and breeding, genomics, and cutting-edge genetic engineering techniques, including genome editing.
The breakthroughs in research and increased awareness of its natural products and health benefits may contribute to the
economic development of farmers and the nation
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Millam, S. O., Bohus, O. and Anna, P., Plant cell and biotechnology
studies in Linum usitatissimum - a review. Plant Cell Tissue Organ
Cult., 2005, 82, 93-103.
Hall, C., Tulbek, M. C. and Xu, Y., Flaxseed, In Advances in Food and
Nutrition Research, Elsevier, Amsterdam, 2006, vol 51, pp. 1-97.
Literature cited 2: Cloutier. S., Linseed. In Reference Module in Food Science, Elsevier,
Amsterdam, 2016, pp. 1-6.
Nowak, W. and Jeziorek, M. The role of flaxseed in improving human
health. Healthcare, 2023, 11, 395.
ID: 66408
Title: Invasion of small hive beetle (Aethina tumida Murray 1867) in India: an emerging threat to bee health and beekeeping
Author: Sourabh Maheshwari
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 (2) 108-110 25 July (2025)
Subject: Invasion of small hive beetle (Aethina tumida Murray 1867) in India: an emerging threat to bee health and beekeeping
Keywords: None
Abstract: Beekeeping in India is a cornerstone
agro-based enterprise, intricately
linked to rural livelihoods, pollination, biodiversity conservation and
national food security. With over
12.26 lakh honeybee colonies and
nearly 10,000 registered beekeepers,
the country produces 1.25 lakh metric tonnes (MT) per year of honey
annually1
. India stands as the world’s
top honey-producing nation, exporting approximately 70,000 MT and
generating INR 900–1,000 crore annually in foreign revenue2
. The domestic beekeeping market is valued
at INR 28,794.4 million in 2024 and
is projected to grow at a compound
annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.71%,
reaching INR 68,183.0 million by
2033 (ref. 3). However, this promising trajectory now faces a formidable
threat. The recent invasion of small
hive beetle (SHB) (Aethina tumida,
Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) poses a perilous risk to India’s beekeeping landscape. This pest emerged globally
as a devastating predator, parasite
and scavenger of honey bee colonies.
In India’s climate, SHB’s aggressive
feeding habits – consuming everything from pollen and brood to honey
and wax – can lead to rapid colony
collapse, contamination of hive products, and large-scale economic losses.
Its presence marks a looming crisis not just for honey production
but for pollination services vital to
Indian agriculture and ecosystem
stability.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hazarika, P., An economic analysis on production and marketing of honey in Assam.
Ph.D. thesis, Assam Agricultural University,
Jorhat, India, 2023.
Antony, S., Linkage and value chain analysis of food processing industry: a special
reference to fruit processing industry in Kerala. Ph.D. thesis, Department of Economics,
University of Calicut, Dr. John Matthai Centre, Aranatukara, Thrissur, India, 2023
Literature cited 2: IMARC Group, India honey market:
industry trends, share, size, growth, opportunity and forecast 2024–2032, International Market Analysis Research
and Consulting Group, Noida, 2024;
https://www.imarcgroup.com/india-honeybeekeeping-apiculture-market (accessed on
1 June 2025).
Dasgupta, J., J. Environ. Sociobiol., 2024,
21(2), 49–52
ID: 66407
Title: A multi-species foraging aggregation of Delphinids in Western Indian waters
Author: R. Ratheesh Kumar, U. Utthamapandian, K. R. Aju
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 (2) 107-107 25 July (2025)
Subject: A multi-species foraging aggregation of Delphinids in Western Indian waters
Keywords: None
Abstract: Animals generally tend to form
heterospecific associations for two
functional advantages: more effective
foraging and predator avoidance.
Such interactions have been observed
in different phyletic groups and between closely and distantly related
species. The nature of such polyspecific aggregations is often dynamic,
in which there may or may not be
direct and coordinated behavioural
interactions. Although the definition
for mixed groups is broad, it is appropriate to consider such an association as occurring among the species
of the same group. Thus, aggregations of distantly related species tend
to be facilitated by concentrated resources while mixed groups of related
species might occur irrespective of
prey concentration1
. In the marine
realm, multispecific aggregations and
interactions are known to occur especially between the marine mammals,
fishes and seabirds as part of foraging.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Stensland, E., Angerbjörn, A. and Berggren,
P., Mamm. Rev., 2003, 33, 205–223.
Bacon, C. E., Smultea, M. A., Fertl, D., Wursig, B., Burgess, E. A. and Hawks-Johnson,
S., Aquat. Mamm., 2017, 43(2), 177–184.
Literature cited 2: Syme, J., Kiszka, J. J. and Parra, G. J., Front.
Mar. Sci., 2021, 8, 678173.
Norris, K. S. and Dohl, T. P., Fish. Bull.,
1980, 77, 821–849.
ID: 66406
Title: Air pollution impact on neurocognitive development
Author: H. Paramesh
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 (2) 105-106 25 July (2025)
Subject: Air pollution impact on neurocognitive development
Keywords: None
Abstract: Neurocognitive development is a mental process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thinking, perception, sensory experience and also effective
response.
The preschool years are the years of blossoming
in the brain. In the first year of life, a million neuronal connections are made per second. The synaptic density reaches its peak during the third year of
life. Hence, the 1000 days after birth are the most
important for neurocognitive development. The neurocognitive phenotype always co-exists with any developmental motor abnormality.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:
ID: 66405
Title: Deliberations on the applicability of IMD’s medium range weather forecasts for their usability in Agromet Advisory Services for the farmers of South Interior Karnataka, India
Author: M. N. Thimmegowda, M. H. Manjunatha, Lingaraj Huggi , L. Nagesha, R. S. Pooja, R. Jayaramaiah, D. V. Soumya and V. Arpitha
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 (1) 70-77 10 July (2025)
Subject: Deliberations on the applicability of IMD’s medium range weather forecasts for their usability in Agromet Advisory Services for the farmers of South Interior Karnataka, India
Keywords: Agromet Advisory, climate risk management, forecasts, South Interior Karnataka.
Abstract: Climate risk management in rainfed regions entails
forecasting, impact assessment and relief planning,
with emphasis on timely forecast dissemination and
accurate loss estimation. Under the Gramin Krishi
Mausam Sewa initiative, the India Meteorological
Department issues agro-meteorological advisories,
evaluated using qualitative, quantitative and statistical methods. In the present study on South Interior Karnataka, the forecast accuracy was higher
for temperature (75–79%) than for wind speed and
rainfall. Ramanagara showed the best rainfall forecast performance. Statistical tests (Hanssen–Kuipers,
Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Anderson–Darling) revealed
spatial variability, influenced by orography. Taylor
diagram analysis confirmed good agreement between observed and forecasted temperatures (0.7–0.8
for maximum temperature, 0.6–0.7 for minimum
temperature), indicating reliable temperature forecasts.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Gregory, P. J., Ingram, J. S. I. and Brklacich, M., Climate Variability
and food security. Philos. Trans. R. Soc. B, Biol. Sci., 2010, 360,
2139–2148.
Gao, J., Shahid, R., Ji, X. and Li, S., Climate change resilience and
sustainable tropical agriculture: farmers’ perceptions, reactive adaptations and determinants of reactive adaptations in Hainan, China. Atmosphere, 2022, 13(6), 9
Literature cited 2: Martínez-Mena, M., Perez, M., Almagro, M., Garcia-Franco, N.
and Díaz-Pereira, E., Long-term effects of sustainable management
practices on soil properties and crop yields in rainfed Mediterranean almond agroecosystems. Eur. J. Agron., 2021, 123, 126207;
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eja.2020.126207.
Rana, R. S., Sood, R., Aditya, A. and Shekhar, J., Validation of
medium range weather forecasts in sub-temperate and sub-humid
climate of western Himalayas. Indian J. Agric. Sci., 2013, 83,
1357–1363.
ID: 66404
Title: Machine learning-based verification of satellite weather alerts for heavy rainfall in Ladakh
Author: Nita H. Shah , Jyoti Chahal, Anupam Priamvada and Bipasha Paul Shukla
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 (1) 63-69 10 July (2025)
Subject: Machine learning-based verification of satellite weather alerts for heavy rainfall in Ladakh
Keywords: Apriori algorithm, disaster management, heavy rainfall alerts, K-means clustering.
Abstract: The present study investigates heavy rainfall patterns
and their variability in Ladakh by using K-means clustering with the Apriori algorithm, which uncovers
the co-occurrence pattern of heavy rainfall alerts obtained from the ISRO MOSDAC portal. The proposed
algorithms reveal that location (lat.: min. = 32.82,
max. = 35.71; long.: min. = 77.59, max. = 79.91)
and location (lat.: min. = 33.11, max. = 35.76; long.:
min. = 75.82, max. = 77.75) exhibit the highest confidence (79.55%) and frequency (48.61%) among all
patterns, indicating strong interdependencies. This
suggests that the alerts in one location can potentially impact the other, offering actionable guidance
for disaster preparedness. The present study highlights a significant match between predicted alerts and
actual heavy rainfall events, underscoring the utility
of machine learning in refining weather alert systems.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Beniston, M., Climatic change in mountain regions: a review of possible impacts. Clim. Change 2003, 59, 5–31.
Bajracharya, S., Mool, P. and Shrestha, B., Impact of climate change
on Himalayan glaciers and glacial lakes: case studies on GLOF and
associated hazards in Nepal and Bhutan, International Center for Integrated Mountain Development, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2007.
Literature cited 2: Erikkson, M., Xu, J., Shrestha, A. and Sandström, K., The changing
Himalayas – impact of climate change on water resources and livelihoods in the Greater Himalaya; Special Report, International Centre
for Integrated Mountain Development, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2009.
Bhutiyani, M. R., Kale, V. S. and Pawar, N. J., Climate change and
the precipitation variations in the northwestern Himalaya: 1866–2006.
Int. J. Climatol., 2010, 30, 535–548
ID: 66403
Title: Effect of biosurfactant on degradation of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in different agricultural soils under different environments
Author: Ashwini Yadav , Neera Singh , Arti Bhatia , Eldho Varghese , Kaushik Banerjee and Ashish Khandelwal
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 (1) 54-62 10 July (2025)
Subject: Effect of biosurfactant on degradation of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in different agricultural soils under different environments
Keywords: Carbon dioxide release, lipopeptide biosurfactant, oil dispersion, optimisation, PAHs degradation
Abstract: A lipopeptide biosurfactant isolated from Lysinibacillus
sp. MW444883 and characterised using liquid
chromatography-high resolution mass spectroscopy.
The production of the biosurfactant was optimised
under conditions of 27oC and 150 rpm (yield ∼2.65
g/l), and Oil dispersion varied from 6 to 8.5 cm.
Degradation and half-life of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in inceptisol soils (collected from Delhi and
Jharkhand agricultural field) under different environments (28oC and 37oC) varied for naphthalene
(20.8%–100%; 1.16–9.86 days), fluorene (5.8–93.8%;
5.6–14.4 days), phenanthrene (6.0%–94.1%; 5.4–22.5
days) and pyrene (5.8%–78.7%; 10.3–27.0 days) respectively. Additionally, dehydrogenase and carbon dioxide
varied from 9.6 to 45.1 µg TPF g–1 soil h–1 and 146.6
to 401.4 mg kg–1 d
–1, 1 respectively, over 0–21 days.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Miao, Y. et al., Sustainable biosurfactant production from secondary
feedstock – recent advances, process optimisation and perspectives.
Front. Chem., 2024, 12, 1327113.
Karnwal, A. et al., Microbial biosurfactant as an alternate to chemical surfactants for application in cosmetics industries in personal and
skin care products: a critical review. BioMed. Res. Int., 2023, 2023,
2375223.
Literature cited 2: Mallick, S., Chakraborty, J. and Dutta, T. K., Role of oxygenases
in guiding diverse metabolic pathways in the bacterial degradation
of low-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: a review.
Crit. Rev. Microbiol., 2011, 37(1), 64–90.
Liu, X. X., Hu, X., Cao, Y., Pang, W. J., Huang, J. Y., Guo, P. and
Huang, L., Biodegradation of phenanthrene and heavy metal removal
by acid-tolerant Burkholderia fungorum FM-2. Front. microbiol.,
2019, 10, 408.
ID: 66402
Title: Gluten hydrolysing bacteria from Tilapia: a ray of hope in gluten intolerance
Author: Snehal Gagare, Radhika Shevale , Anushka Walupante and Sanjay Kharat
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 (1) 46-53 10 July (2025)
Subject: Gluten hydrolysing bacteria from Tilapia: a ray of hope in gluten intolerance
Keywords: Bacillus tequilensis, gluten intolerance, health supplements, Oreochromis niloticus, probiotic
Abstract: Gluten intolerance can be recognised as an emerging health concern. Currently, there are few, if any,
medications available to mitigate gluten intolerance
symptoms, prompting the search for effective natural
alternatives. Recent studies have demonstrated the significant potential of probiotic bacteria that hydrolyse
gluten in alleviating symptoms of gluten intolerance.
This study aims to evaluate the gluten-hydrolysing ability of five bacterial isolates from Tilapia (Oreochromis
niloticus) and assess their in vitro probiotic attributes.
Biochemical and molecular characterisation identified
the isolates as Bacillus licheniformis (L1), Bacillus tequilensis (G1), Lactococcus lactis (G5), Enterococcus faecium (G7) and Weissella confusa (G9). All isolates were
capable of surviving a wide pH range (3–9) and exhibited surface hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation
properties. Furthermore, according to Clinical and
Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) criteria, the
isolates were susceptible to most of the tested antibiotics. The study concludes that the five isolates from
Tilapia can hydrolyse gluten and possess essential probiotic properties, suggesting their potential as probiotic
supplements for individuals with gluten intolerance.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Balakireva, A. V. and Zamyatnin Jr, A. A., Properties of gluten intolerance: gluten structure, evolution, pathogenicity and detoxification
capabilities. Nutrients, 2016, 8(10), 644.
Sapone, A. et al., Spectrum of gluten-related disorders: consensus on
new nomenclature and classification. BMC Med., 2012, 10, 1–12
Literature cited 2: Ortiz, C., Valenzuela, R. and Alvarez, L. Y., Celiac disease, non-celiac
gluten sensitivity and wheat allergy: comparison of 3 different diseases
triggered by the same food. Rev. Méd. Clín. Las Condes, 2017, 28(4),
437–446.
Briani, C., Samaroo, D. and Alaedini, A., Celiac disease: from gluten
to autoimmunity. Autoimmun. Rev., 2008, 7(8), 644–650.
ID: 66401
Title: Biomimetic oscillating propulsion mechanism for a robofish using embedded control system
Author: S. B. Pranesh, V. B. N. Jyothi , E. Chandrasekaran, N. Vedachalam, S. Ramesh and G. A. Ramadass
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 (1) 39-45 10 July (2025)
Subject: Biomimetic oscillating propulsion mechanism for a robofish using embedded control system
Keywords: Biomechanism, control algorithm, hydrodynamics, oscillating propulsion, robo
Abstract: The present study depicts the tail fin design, realisation, and propulsion performance of the biomimetic
robofish prototype utilising the carangiform motion for
efficient two-dimensional (2D) propulsion. Lighthill’s
2D waving plate theory and MATLAB simulations
are used to optimise the thrust by varying link and
joint configurations. The two-link design achieves a
speed of one knot in forward and reverse using a 12 V,
7 Ah battery and servo motor with pulse-width modulation. The robofish is onboard programmed with a
timed sequence actuation for forward and downward
manoeuvring. An experimental validation in the test
tank confirms its performance, showing its potential for
advancing bio-inspired underwater propulsion systems
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Li, J., Li, W., Liu, Q., Luo, B. and Cui, W., Current status and technical challenges in the development of biomimetic robotic fish-type submersible. Ocean-Land-Atmos. Res., 2024, 3; doi: 10.34133/olar.0036.
Krieg, M., Klein, P., Hodgkinson, R. and Mohseni, K., A hybrid class
underwater vehicle: bioinspired propulsion, embedded system, and
acoustic communication and localisation system. Mar. Technol. Soc.
J., 2011, 45, 153–164
Literature cited 2: Zhang, D., Huang, Q., Xu, H., Zhu, H., Cao, Y., Cao, Y. and Pan, G.,
Development and three-dimensional modelling of a bionic robotic fish
with pectoral fins. Ocean Eng., 2025, 321, 120393.
Lighthill, J., Flagellar hydrodynamics. SIAM Rev., 1976, 18, 161–230