ID: 62650
Title: Career challenges for young independent researchers in India
Author: David C.Vanlalfakawma, B.Malsawmkima, Keshav Kumar UpadhyayS.K.Tripathi
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (2) 133-134 (2022)
Subject: Career challenges for young independent researchers in India
Keywords: Academia, career opportunities, challenges, scientific enterprises, STEM, young researchers
Abstract: Sinarundinaria griffithiana (Munro) Chao & Renvoiz is endemic to Southeast Asia, naturally occurring in India, Bhutan, Tibet, Laos and Myanmar. In India, it occurs in the highlands of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and West Bengal. The species grows well at an altitudinal gradient between 900 and 2200 m amsl on hilly slopes with good soil conditions. The distribution of the species is found to be mainly controlled by elevations and annual precipitation. In a previous study, discriminant analysis of the bioclimatic variables for S. griffithiana showed a narrow climatic niche for the species and indicated its vulnerability to climate change. In Mizoram, it is locally known as ‘phar’.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Barik, S.K., lyngdoh, E.K. and Naithani, H.B., Indian For., 2009, 135, 67-77. Gamble, J.S., Ann. Roy, Bot. Gard. (Calcutta), 1896.
Literature cited 2: Tewari, D.N., Monograph on Bamboo, International Book Distribution, Dehradun, 1992, p.314, ISBN: 81-7089-176-0. Zhengyi, W., Raven, P.H. and Deyuan, H., Flora of China, Vol.22: Poaceae, Beijing and St. Loius, MO: Science Press and Missouri Botanical Garden, 2006, p.752.


ID: 62649
Title: Cancers in the Urban Environment: How Malignant Diseases are caused and Distributed Among the Diverse People and Neighbourhoods of a Major Global Metrololis , 2nd Edition
Author: Thomas M. Mack; reviewed by Pradyumna Kumar Mishra, Arpit Bhargava
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1)105-106 (2022)
Subject: Cancers in the Urban Environment: How Malignant Diseases are caused and Distributed Among the Diverse People and Neighbourhoods of a Major Global Metropolis, 2nd Edition
Keywords: Cancers, Urban Environment, Malignant Diseases, Major Global Metropolis
Abstract: This book is an interesting publication which integrates elementary knowledge of cancer, its types and occurrence in a complex urban environment. It is unique collection of statistical datasets of different cancers, which portrays their demographic and geographic patterns in a defined area. The methodology adopted is sound and most of the work presented is easy to understand for the medical and scientific fraternity. Surely, it will assist to recognize the specific patterns and causal hypothesis of cancers in an urban environment.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:


ID: 62648
Title: Cyclical assessment of superoxide anion-radical generation and characterization of linking physiological parameters in wheat (Triticum aestivum L) seedlings
Author: Batjuka
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1)93-98 (2022)
Subject: Cyclical assessment of superoxide anion-radical generation and characterization of linking physiological parameters in wheat (Triticum aestivum L) seedlings
Keywords: DNA sysnthesis, membrane permeability, physiological parameters, superoxide radical, Tricticum aestivum L
Abstract: This study was conducted to evaluate the dynamics of superoxide anion radical (O2.-) production rate and alterations in DNA content and permeability of cell membranes in etiolated wheat seedlings (Triticum aestivum Lcv. Harmony) as well as those grown under normal daylight regime. The results suggest that the development of etiolated wheat seedlings and those grown under normal daylight is accompanied by the periodic formation of O2.-which leads to alteration in DNA content as well as permeability of cell membranes. The results also indicate that the first enhancement in the rate of O2. - generation was detected on the sixth and seventh days of development, after which the rate of O2.- production reduced in etiolated seedlings and those grown under normal daylight regime. The second maximum of the O2.- producing rate in developing and senescent organs occurred on the ninth day of plant development. The lowest values of all studied parameters, such a O2.- producing rate (37%), total genomic DNA concentration (58%) and electrolyte leakage (EL; 18%) were observed in etiolated wheat seedlings. Towards the end of the study period, DNA concentration and EL in organs of wheat seedlings declined, suggesting possible destruction of cellular organelles and the beginning of apoptotic processes. Overall, these results indicate that O2.- generation is decisive for normal morphogenesis, and it is an indispensable element of synchronous growth and development.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Demidchik, V., Mechanism and physiological roles of K+ efflux from root cells.J.Plant Physiol., 2014, 171, 696-707. Nath, K. and Lu, Y., A paradigm of reactive oxygen species and programmed cell death in plants. J. Cell Sci. Ther., 2015, 6, 1-2.
Literature cited 2: Borovik, O.A. and Grabelnych, O.I., Mitochondrial alternative cyanide-resistant oxidase is involved in an increase of heat stress tolerance in spring whet.J.Plant Physiol., 2018, 231, 310-317. Shorning, B.Y., Smirnova, E.G., Yuguzhinsky, L.Sand Vanyushin, B.F., Necessity of superoxide production for development of etiolated wheat seedlings.Biochem. (Mosc), 2000, 65, 1357-1361.


ID: 62647
Title: Education for sustainability: curriculum provisions and teaching-learning in India
Author: Shalini Dixit and Gargi Sehrawat
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1)87-92 (2022)
Subject: Education for sustainability: curriculum provisions and teaching-learning in India
Keywords: Climate change, classroom observations, education for sustainability, sustainable development, teachers’ understanding
Abstract: The issues related to sustainability are emphasized in policy documents and included in textbooks in India. However, the dismal teaching-learning conditions raise concerns about the quality of delivery to students. Amidst these inconsistencies regarding education for sustainability, the present study sought to examine its existing status in two schools in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. An interview was conducted and classroom observations made involving 35 teachers in total. The study showed that teachers’ knowledge and attitude about sustainability were limited and non-scientific at times. Knowledge about climate and sustainability was transferred in an exam-centred manner without any focus on developing attitudes amongst the students. Highlighting the role of social experiences and cultural capital of teachers, this study suggests a need for concerted efforts to address their deep-rooted understanding and attitudes regarding sustainability.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Noel, J.-Fand O’connor, M., Strong sustainability and critical natural capital. In Valuation for Sustainable Development: Methods and Policy Indictors (eds Faucheux, Sand O’Connor, M.), Edward Elagar Publisher, Cheltenham, UK, 1998, pp.75-99. World Commission on Environment and Development. Our Common Future, Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK, 1987.
Literature cited 2: Robinson, J.B., Francis, G., Lerner, S. and Gibson, R., Defining a sustainable society: values, principles and definitions. Altern. Global, Local, Polit., 1990, 7 (2), 36-46. Fabio, A.D., and Kenny, M.E., Connectedness to nature, personality traits and empathy from a sustainability perspective. Curr. Psychol., 2018, 40 (2), 1-12.


ID: 62646
Title: A new optimization approach to enhance seismic performance of lead rubber bearing-isolated steel moment-resisting frames under extreme events.
Author: Jagajyoti Panda and Samit Ray-Chaudhuri
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 77-86 (2022)
Subject: A new optimization approach to enhance seismic performance of lead rubber bearing-isolated steel moment-resisting frames under extreme events
Keywords: Bio-objective optimization, frame structures, ground motions, lead rubber bearings, optimal design, yield strength
Abstract: This study presents an optimal design approach of lead rubber bearings (LRBs) for frame structures. The proposed approach involves a bio-objective optimization problem by maximizing the isolation efficiency along with minimization of peak bearing displacement. Further, a varying weight factor approach is proposed to target multiple performance objectives under different hazard levels of ground excitation. The optimal yield strength of LRBs for the considered frames is selected such that the total deviation of both objectives with respect to their specified limits is within 5%. Finally, it has been demonstrated that the proposed approach is generic in nature and valid for different superstructure flexibility and damping when subjected to ground motions of varying hazard levels.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Buckele, I and Meyes, R., Seismic isolation: history, application, and performance-a world view. Earthq. Spectra, 1990, 6(2), 161-201; https://doi.org/10.1193/1.1585564. Deb, S.K., Seismic base isolation –an overview, Curr. Sci., 2004, 87 (10) 1426-1430; https://www.jstor.org/stable/24109483.
Literature cited 2: Datta, T.K., Seismic Analysis of Structures, John Wiley and Sons (Asia) Pte Ltd, Singapore, 2010. Villaverde, R., Fundamental Concepts of Earthquake Engineering, CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2009, 1st edn.


ID: 62645
Title: Crop coefficient for coffee as a function of leaf area index
Author: J.A. do Vale Sant Ana, A. Colombo, J.J. da Silva Junior, M.S. Scalco and R.A. da Silva
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 70-76 (2022)
Subject: Crop coefficient for coffee as a function of leaf area index
Keywords: Crop height, coffee, drip irrigation, evapotranspiration, leaf area index.
Abstract: This study was conducted in an experimental site at the Federal University of Lavras, Brazil, to estimate the single crop coefficient (Ke) for drip-irrigated coffee (Coffea arabica) and provide a mathematical description based on leaf area index (LAI). The cultivar used was Catigua MG-3 planted in May 2007 with a spacing of 2.5 x 0.6 m. The LAI were obtained from the average of plant height and canopy diameter with data derived from bio monthly measurement s between 2007 and 2013.Ke values were determined from crop evapotranspiration (ETe) and reference evapotranspiration (ETo). ETe was estimated from the water balance between the periods of successive irrigation in which there was no precipitation, while ET0 was obtained using the Penman-Monteith equation parameterized by FAO. To describe the relationship between Key and LAI, linear and nonlinear models were used. The logistic model was best for describing the Ke values as a function of LAI. The determined minimum, mean and maximum Ke values were 0.21, 0.57 and 0.80 respectively.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Arantes, K.R., Faria, M.A and Rezende, F.C., Recovery of the coffee tree (Coffea Arabica L) after reception, submitted to different water slices and instalments of fertilization. Acta Sci., 2009, 31, 313-319. Assis, G.A. et al., Leaf miner incidence in coffee plants under different drip irrigation regimes and planting densities. Braz. J. Agric. Res., 2012., 47(2), 157-12.
Literature cited 2: Assis, G.A., Guimares, R.J., Scalco, M.S., Colombo, A., Morais, A.R. and Carvalho, J.P.S., Correlation between growth and productivity of coffee plants according to water regime and planting density. Biosci. J., 2014, 30(3), 666-676. Custodio, A.A.P., Moraes, J.C., Custodio, A.A.P., Lima, L.A., Faria, M.A., and Gomes, N.M., Incidence of the coffee plant in irrigated crops under central pivot. Coffee Sci., 2009, 4 (1), 16-26.


ID: 62644
Title: Quantification and economic valuation of carbon sequestration from smallholder multifunctional agroforestry: a study from the foothills of the Nilgiris, India
Author: A.Keerthika and K.T. Parthiban
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 61-69 (2022)
Subject: Quantification and economic valuation of carbon sequestration from smallholder multifunctional agroforestry: a study from the foothills of the Nilgiris, India
Keywords: Biomass carbon stock, multifunctional agroforestry, soil organic carbon total carbon sequestration
Abstract: Agroforestry is widely recognized for its role in climate change mitigation and adaptation. However, carbon sequestration and a marketable carbon value of small-holder agroforestry systems in India are poorly documented. Therefore, the present study was carried out to quantify carbon stock in a circular-shaped multi-functional agro forestry (MFA) divided into four equal quadrates. It comprises 24 different tree species and 8 intercrops, mainly established to provide daily income to small and marginal farmers. A non-destructive method was used to assess biomass carbon stock. Soil core samples collected from 0 to 60 cm depth were analysed to quantify soil organic carbon (SOC) stock. Results revealed significantly higher biomass and carbon stock in the following order: Neolamarckia cadamba>Melia dubia>Lagerstroemia parviflora>Dalbergia latifolia>Tectona gransis. Duncan’s multiple range test revealed significant differences in the multi-utility circles (P<0.001). The total change in SOC stock was 11.55 Mg quadrat-1, but the difference was insignicant in different soil depths. The results indicated that the total carbon sequestration and CO2e from vegetation were 2.23 and 9.23 tones respectively. Similarly, CO2e from the soil were 42.37 Mg quadrat-1 respectively; the highest contributions were from quadrat II and Quadrat IV of MFA. By taking into account profitability and incentives to smallholder farmers, the total marketable carbon revenue of MFA was calculated and US $ 206.40.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Watson-Lazowski, A. et al., Plant adaptation or acclamation to rising CO2? Insight from first multigenerational RNA-Seq transcriptome.Global Change Biol., 2016, 22(11), 3760-3773. IEA, Emissions-Global Energy and CO2 Status report analysis, International Energy Agency, p.684; https://www.iea.org/repports/global-energy-co2-status-report-2019/emissions.
Literature cited 2: Nath, A.J., Sileshi, G.W., Laskar, S.Y., Pathak, K., Reang, D.,Nath,A. and Das, A.K., Quantifying carbonstocks and sequestration potential in agroforetry systems under divergent management scenarios relevant to India’s nationally determined contribution.J.Clean.Prd.,2020, 24831. IPCC, Summary for policymakers. 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 Shukla, P.R. et al.), IPCC Press Office, Geneva, Switzerland, 2019, p.36.


ID: 62643
Title: Soil organic carbon variation under sub-tropical forest of Himachal Pradesh, India
Author: Bandna Kumari, Avinash Tiwari, Sangeeta Sharma and Jasra Anjum
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 56-60 (2022)
Subject: Soil organic carbon variation under sub-tropical forest of Himachal Pradesh, India
Keywords: Anogeissus latifolia, carbon sequestration, Pinus roxburghii, soil organic carbon, sub-tropical forest.
Abstract: It is important to estimate soil organic carbon (SOC) content of natural forests for an understanding of the Himalayan ecosystem. In this study SOC concentration was evaluated at three different soil depths (0-0, 10-20 and 20-30 cm) under Anogeissus latifolia (site 1) and Pinus roxburghii (Site II) forest stands in Himachal Pradesh, India.SOC (%) in these forests ranged from 0.37% to 2.20% up to 30 cm soil depth and was higher at site 1 compared to site II. Tree density was also moisture at site I than site II. The present study shows that the tree species can influence SOC of the forest ecosystem, but other environmental parameters such as soil type, moisture and pH are also responsible for changes in the soil carbon sequestration potential. Carbon sequestration in the study area showed significant contribution in minimizing the increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and improving soil quality.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Pal, D.K., Wani, S.P and Sahrawat, K.L., Carbon sequestration in Indian soils: present status and the potential .Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. India Sect.B., 2015, 85(2), 337-358. Malhi, Y.A., Baldocchi, D.D. and Jarvis, P.G., The carbon balance of tropical, temperate and boreal forests. Plant Cell Environ., 1999, 22(6), 715-740.
Literature cited 2: Chen, X.W., and Li, B.L., Change in soil carbon and nutrient storage after human disturbance of a primary Korean pine forest in north-east China. For. Ecol. Mange, 2003, 186, 197-206. Lal, R., Forest soils and carbon sequestration. For. Ecol. Manage., 2005, 220, 242-258.


ID: 62642
Title: Molecular insights into crystallization of minerals: the case of first-row transition metal salt hydrates
Author: Preethi Thomas, Shailabh Tewari, Manisha Jadon, Bharti Singh and Arunachalam Ramanan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 39-46 (2022)
Subject: Molecular insights into crystallization of minerals: the case of first-row transition metal salt hydrates
Keywords: Crystallization, hydrogen-bonding, salt hydrates, structural landscape, supramolecular aggregation, topotactic reaction, transition metal
Abstract: How does Nature, the virtuoso chemist, assemble a mineral, an inorganic crystalline compound with a specific composition? How does one account for the final assembly of a crystal hydrate observed through an X-ray lens? Chemical insights into the aggregation of molecules resulting into simple salt hydrates still evade experimental and theoretical studies. This article gives a perspective of how Nature dictates the structural landscape of MSO4-H2O in terms of supramolecular aggregation between the molecular species {M (H2o) 6}2+, SO42- and H2O interacting at supersaturation through H-bonding and subsequent coordination forces.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Desiraju, G., Vittal, J.J. and Ramanan, A., Crystal Engineering a Textbook, World scientific Publishing Company, Singapore, 2011. De Yoreo, J.J and Vekilov, P.G., Principles of crystal nucleation and growth. Rev. Mineral. Geochem., 2003, 54, 57-93.
Literature cited 2: Sosso, C., G.C., Chen, J., Cox, S.J., Fitzner, M., Pedevilla, P., Zen, A. and Michaelides, A., Crystal nucleation in liquids: open questions and future challenges in molecular dynamics simulations. Chem. Rev., 2016, 116, 7078-7116. De Yoreo J.J. et al., Crystallization by particle attachment in synthetic, biogenic and geologic environments. Science, 2015, 349, 6760 (1-9).


ID: 62641
Title: Transitions in traditional dwellings
Author: Khadeeja Henna and Monto Mani
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 29-38 (2022)
Subject: Transitions in traditional dwellings
Keywords: Transitions, traditional dwellings
Abstract: A dwelling, while providing shelter, reflects the identity and individually of its occupant(s). Traditional architecture evolved with time, catering to the needs of the inhabitants, adopting local materials and in harmony with the prevalent climate and environment. Growing aspirations and global pressure drive transitions in this transitional fabric, pushing towards modern construction practices. For traditional societies in Asia and Africa with a large rural population, transitions have serious local and global impact, including loss of traditions, increased material and energy demand, and contribution towards climate change. This article reviews transition in dwellings in rural settlements and makes an effort to comprehend its nature, drivers and consequences. Understanding transitions helps appreciate traditional building practices and design for a sustainable future.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Mani, M., Ganesh, L., and Varghese, K., Sustainability and Human Settlements: Fundamental Issues, Modelling and Simulation, SAGE, 2005. Vellinga, M., Anthropology and the challenges of sustainable architecture.Anthropol.Today, 2005, 21, 3-7.
Literature cited 2: Sinha, A., From tradition to modernity: the role of the dwelling in social change. In Environmental Design Research Association Conference, Champion, Urbana, 1990, pp.157-162. Sim, S. and Mccarthy, C., Redefining the vernacular in the hybrid architecture of Malaysia, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, 2010.


ID: 62640
Title: Potential of integrated approach of zinc fortification in maize
Author: P.Nandini, P.Laxminarayana, K.Bhanu Rekha, T.Anjaiah
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 23-25 (2022)
Subject: Potential of integrated approach of zinc fortification in maize
Keywords: Potential, integrated approach, zinc fortification in maize
Abstract: Attention towards the major nutrients than secondary and micronutrients is more for achieving the targeted yields. Zinc (Zn) nutrition plays a pivotal role in plant metabolism and yield potential of maize. Indiscriminate use of high-analysis straight fertilizers coupled with negligible, or no application of organics has resulted in imbalanced soil nutrient status and micronutrients deficiency across the globe, and zinc in particular. Zinc deficiency in human nutrition is widespread, after iron, vitamin A and iodine deficiencies. Nearly 49% of the global adult population does not get its daily recommended intake of 15 mg day-1 of zinc. This is one of the leading risk factors associated with diseases such as diarrhoea and retarded growth contributing to the death of about 800,000 people each year. Negative correlation between irrigation and phosphorus was observed with Zn uptake which leads to the low Zn content in kernels, a major cause of Zn malnutrition among maize consumers.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Das, J.K., Khan, R.S., and Bhutta, Z.A., Sci. Direct, 2018, 213-219. Muhammad, A.M. and Abdul, R.B., Plant Breed, 2018, 138, 1-28.
Literature cited 2: Van Jaarsveld, P.J., Faber, M. and Van Stuijvenberg, M.E., Food Nutr.Bull. 2015, 36 (3), 315-326. Anees, M.A., Ali, A., Shakoor, U., Ahmed, F., Hasnain, Z. and Hussain, A., Int.J.Agric.Biol. 2016, 18 (5), 1025-1032.


ID: 62639
Title: The Santalum album is unique from seed to wood
Author: M.Bhaskaran, R.Umarani, M.Tilak
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 21-23 (2022)
Subject: The Santalum album is unique from seed to wood
Keywords: Santalum album, seed to wood
Abstract: The sandalwood tree is of great cultural, medicinal and commercial value. There are about 29 genera and 400 sandal species. The sandal tree is distinct in many ways, including tree phenology, hemiparasitic nature, seed structure and germination morphology, fragrant heartwood and oil of high economic value, resulting in illelegal felling and threat to its existence. This correspondence emphasizes the uniqueness of the tree, which may be the basis for conducting future research on its botanical and eco-physiological characteristics.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Sutheesh, V.K., Jijeesh, C.M. and Divya, T.P., Plant Arch., 2016, 16(1) , 143-150. Nagaveni, H.C., and Srimathi, R.A., Indian. For., 1981,107, 348-354.
Literature cited 2: Dileepa, M.M., Jayawardena, M., Gehan Jayasuriya, K.M.G., and Walek, J.L.J. Natl. Sci. Found. Sri Lanka, 2015, 43 (3), 209-215. Baskin, C.C. and Baskin, J.M., Seeds: Ecological, Biogeography, and Evolution of Dormancy and Germination, Academic Press, London, UK, 1998.


ID: 62638
Title: Amphibians need legal protection
Author: Bhaskar Saikia, Bikramjit Sinha
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 9-10 (2022)
Subject: Amphibians need legal protection
Keywords: Amphibians, legal protection
Abstract: Situated at the confluence of two biodiversity hotspots-the Himalaya and Indo-Burma-the eight states of Northeast India are home to more than 160 species of amphibians, of which more than 60 species are endemic. The region also harbours 10 threatened species of frogs, including a critically endangered bush frog Raorchestes shillongensis, which is highly endemic to a small part of Khasi Hills in Meghalaya. Ioronically, majority of the indigeneous tribes of the region unsustainably harvest more than 24 species of frogs as a source of food and medicine from the wild including a vulnerable species, Pterorana khare.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Frost, D.R., Amphibian species of the world: an online reference, 2021, version 6.1; https://amphibiansoftworld.amnh.org/index.phpdoi.org/10.5531/db.vz.0001. Boruah, B., Raj, P., Dutta, S.K., and Das, A., Phyllomedusa, 2018, 17, 3-20.
Literature cited 2: Talukdar, S., Sengupta, S., Konyak, M., Shunyei and Rizwan, Md, World News Nat., Sci., 2020, 30 (2), 144-149. Hussain, J.F., and Tynsong, H., Asian J.Ethnobiol., 2021, 4 (1), 1-22; doi:10.13057/asianjethnobiol/y040101.


ID: 62637
Title: Sea farming and saline water agriculture
Author: M.H. Mehta
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2022
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 122 (1) 7-8 (2022)
Subject: Sea farming and saline water agriculture
Keywords: Sea farming, saline water agriculture
Abstract: Sea farming and saline water agriculture have been gaining interest as possible solutions for the limitations imposed by the world’s freshwater supply, farmland availability, salinity ingression and the pressing future need for food supply. They also have the potential to contribute to important solutions to the climate change problem.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:


ID: 62636
Title: Soil organic carbon dynamics in Populus deltoids plantations using RothC-model in the Indo-Gangetic region of India
Author: Pankaj Panwar, Sanjeev Chauhan, D.K.Das, Rajesh Kaushal, Gurveen Arora and Sumit Chaturvedi
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 121 (12) 1619-1622 (2021)
Subject: Soil organic carbon dynamics in Populus deltoids plantations using RothC-model in the Indo-Gangetic region of India
Keywords: Management practices, Populus deltoids, simulation models, soil organic carbon
Abstract: Soil organic carbon (SOC) change can arise because of changes in land use, land management and climatic conditions. Modelling approach helps in proper choice of management practices for soil carbon build-up. In this context, Roth C is promising model for estimation of SOC changes in different land-use systems. In the present study, RothC was used to predict the development of SOC in Populus deltoids plantation during three rotations in three agro-climatic zones of the Indo-Gangetic region, India. The result reveal that Roth C fairly predicts SOC. Root mean square error for Lower Gangetic Region (LGR), Middle Gangetic Region (MGR) and Trans Gangetic Plain (TGP) was 2.75, 4.94 and 1.30 respectively, while comparing modelled and measured data. Model efficiency was 0.25, 0.36 and 0.89 for LGR, MGR and TGP respectively. The rate of change of measured SOC was 1.0, 1.59 and 1.51 mg ha-1year-1 for LGR, MGR and TGP respectively, whereas the rate of change of simulated SOC was higher, i.e1.16 and 1.89 mg ha-1year-1 for LGR and UGR respectively, and lower for TGP (0.97 mg ha-1yer-1).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Van Keulen, H., Tropical soil organic matter modelling problems and prospects .Nutr.Cycl.Agroecosyst, 2001, 61 (1/2), 33-39. Rani, S., Benbi, D.K., Rajasekaran, A. and Chauhan, S.K., Litterfall, decomposition and nutrient release patterns of different tree species in Taran Taran district of Punjab, India.J.Appl.Nat.Sci.,2016, 8(3), 1260-1266.
Literature cited 2: Farage, P.K. et al., The potential for soil carbon sequestration in the tropic dryland farming systems of Africa and Latin America: a modelling approach. Soil Tillage Res., 2007, 94, 457-472. Jones, C. et al., Global climate change and soil carbon stock; predictions from two contrasting models for turnover of organic carbon in soil. Global Change Biol., 2005, 11, 154-166.