Enter records

ID: 65801
Title: Designing of a novel and potent HPV66 L1 major capsid protein-epitope based therapeutic vaccine against Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A bioinformatics approach
Author: S. Ganesh Kumar Krupakar Sakthivel Chirayu
Editor: Dr.Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2024
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 45 (2) 130-138 (2024)
Subject: Designing of a novel and potent HPV66 L1 major capsid protein-epitope based therapeutic vaccine against Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A bioinformatics approach
Keywords: B-cell epitope, Cervical Cancer, Human papillomavirus, HPV66 L1 major capsid protein, T-cell epitope
Abstract: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, with about 0.6 million cases and 0.3 million deaths per year (Arbyn et al., 2020). Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes infections in the human reproductive tract. In many cases, HPV infections have no symptoms and are usually cleared by the system. It is a non-enveloped virus with a circular doublestranded DNA genome that is approximately 8 kb in length (Doorbar et al., 2012). However, if the infection persists, it may lead to the development of warts in the cervical, anogenital, or oropharyngeal regions in both men and women. Chronic HPV infection can lead to cervical cancer, which is the most common HPV-related disease. While many pre-cancerous lesions caused by HPV may disappear without intervention, women with HPV infection are at risk of developing persistent and pre-cancerous lesions that can progress to invasive cervical cancer (WHO, 2023).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Andersson, S., M. Alemi, E. Rylander, A. Strand, B. Larsson, J. Sällström, and E. Wilander: Uneven distribution of HPV 16 E6 prototype and variant (L83V) oncoprotein in cervical neoplastic lesions. British J. Cancer, 83, 307–310 (2000). Arbyn, M., E. Weiderpass, L. Bruni, S. de Sanjosé, M. Saraiya, J. Ferlay and F. Bray: Estimates of incidence and mortality of cervical cancer in 2018: a worldwide analysis. Lancet Global Hlth., 8, e191–e203 (2020).
Literature cited 2: de Martel, C., M. Plummer, J. Vignat and S. Franceschi: Worldwide burden of cancer attributable to HPV by site, country and HPV type. Int. J. Cancer, 141, 664-670 (2017). Dong, D., Y. Zhu, Z. Aili, Z. Chen and J. Ding: Bioinformatics analysis of HPV-68 E6 and E7 oncoproteins for designing a therapeutic epitope vaccine against HPV infection. Infec. Gene. Evol., 81, 104266 (2020)

ID: 65800
Title: Wetlands for human well-being
Author: T.V. Ramachandra , K.S. Asulabha , V. Sincy , R. Jaishanker
Editor: Dr.Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2024
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 45 (2) i-iv (2024)
Subject: Wetlands for human well-being
Keywords: None
Abstract: Wetlands, transitional lands bridging the gap between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems, with biophysical interactions that provide numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits for human wellbeing. These vital ecosystems sustain ecological processes to provide services such as nutrient cycling, water purification, reducing pollution, carbon sequestration, groundwater recharge, flood reduction, erosion control, habitats for aquatic biota (Fig. 1), education opportunities, aesthetics, and recreation (Ramachandra et al., 2021; Ramachandra, 2022). In this context, World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February to raise global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for human well-being and commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar. The Convention underscored sustainable and wise use of wetlands while advocating ecosystem approaches for the preservation of fragile ecosystems. Currently, 172 Ramsar Convention Contracting Parties and 2,500 Ramsar Sites totalling 2.5 million square kilometers are designated Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance. There are 80 wetlands of international significance in India (https://www.ramsar.org/) spanning 1,332,200 ha (which includes recently (on 31 January 2024) designated five wetlands - Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve, Aghanashini Estuary (Ramachandra et al., 2018; Fig. 2) and Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve in Karnataka, and Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest in Tamil Nadu). Pledged contracting parties advocate wise use of wetlands and water resources in the respective regions through national conservation plans, policies, legislation, management actions, and public education as per the tenets of 'seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations to ensure sustainable water and land resource use, food and water security, biodiversity conservation, poverty alleviation, and climate change mitigation (https://sdgs.un.org/goals).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Clarkson, B. R., A. G. E. Ausseil and P. Gerbeaux: Wetland ecosystem services. Ecosystem services in New Zealand: conditions and trends. Manaaki Whenua Press, Lincoln. 1, 192-202 (2013). Costanza, R., R. d'Arge, R. De Groot, S. Farber, M. Grasso, B. Hannon, K. Limburg, S. Naeem, R.V. O'neill, J. Paruelo and R.G. Raskin: The value of the world's ecosystem services and natural capital. Nature, 387, 253-260 (1997)
Literature cited 2: De Groot, R., L. Brander, S. Van Der Ploeg, R. Costanza, F. Bernard, L. Braat, M. Christie, N. Crossman, A. Ghermandi, L. Hein and S. Hussain: Global estimates of the value of ecosystems and their services in monetary units. Ecosyst. Serv.,1, 50-61 (2012). MEA: Ecosystems and human well-being: Aframework for assessment. Island Press: Washington, USA. pp. 1–266 (2005).

ID: 65799
Title: Reconnaissance report of the 21 July 2023 Jaipur earthquakes in Rajasthan, India
Author: Bal Krishna Maheshwari, Varun Kumar Singla and Sukanta 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. 126 (5) 603-606 10 March (2024)
Subject: Reconnaissance report of the 21 July 2023 Jaipur earthquakes in Rajasthan, India
Keywords: Earthquakes, geological activities, reconnaissance report, seismic intensity, seismic z
Abstract: In the early morning of 21 July 2023, a few low to moderate magnitude earthquakes struck the city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India. These tremors were strong enough to wake up the city residents and were felt even in other relatively distant cities such as Jaisalmer and Delhi. This study reports preliminary findings of the reconnaissance conducted in Jaipur following these earthquakes. Field observations indicate a maximum seismic intensity V (‘awakening’) on the MSK 1964 intensity scale (IS 1893-1, 2016), which is consistent with the seismic zone (II) in which Jaipur city is located.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Paul, J. et al., Microstrain stability of peninsular India 1864–1994. Proc. Indian Acad. Sci. – Earth Planet. Sci., 1995, 104, 131–146. Rao, B. R. and Rao, P. S., Historical seismicity of peninsular India. Bull. Seismol. Soc. Am., 1984, 74(6), 2519–2533.
Literature cited 2: IS: 1893, Criteria for earthquake resistance design of structures: general provisions and buildings. Part-1, Bureau of Indian Standards, New Delhi, 2016. Kumar, H. and Pandit, M., Recurrent seismicity in Rajasthan state in the tectonically stable NW Indian Craton. Iran. J. Earth Sci., 2020, 12(1), 1–9.

ID: 65798
Title: Occupancy, coat colour pattern and social organization of mixed-species and mixed-morphotype groups of Nilgiri langur (Semnopithecus johnii) and tufted grey langur (Semnopithecus priam)
Author: Santanu Mahato, Honnavalli N. Kumara , Mridula Singh and Mewa 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. 126 (5) 593-602 10 March (2024)
Subject: Occupancy, coat colour pattern and social organization of mixed-species and mixed-morphotype groups of Nilgiri langur (Semnopithecus johnii) and tufted grey langur (Semnopithecus priam)
Keywords: Altitudinal gradients, hybridization, langurs, mixed-species associations, sympatricity.
Abstract: A mixed-species group is formed due to an increase in close association among individuals of different species. Such groups also possibility of having diversity in size, phenotypic similarities and differences, and contrasting morphologies compared to the original species. We studied inter-individual variations in external morphology and social structure in mixed-species groups of Nilgiri langur (NL, Semnopithecus johnii) and tufted grey langur (HL, Semnopithecus priam) between 300 and 800 m in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Western Ghats in India. The study reports the largest number of mixed morphotypes in a population having a higher abundance of dark grey morphs at lower altitudes, light brown morphs in the mid altitudes and more dark brown morphs at higher altitudes. The group size of mixed species was mostly multi-male and multi-female and larger than the NL and HL groups. Our study provides a framework to determine their inter-specific interactions and reproductive strategies which are necessary in overlapping ranges.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: MacArthur, R. H., On the relative abundance of bird species. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1957, 43, 293–295. Schoener, T. W., Resource partitioning in ecological communities. Science, 1974, 185, 27–39.
Literature cited 2: Schnitzler, A. and Hermann, L., Chronological distribution of the tiger Panthera tigris and the Asiatic lion Panthera leo persica in their common range in Asia. Mamm. Rev., 2019, 49, 340–353. Singh, M. et al., Distribution and research potential of non-human primates in the Aliyar–Valparai sector of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu, India. Trop. Biodivers., 1997, 4, 197–208.

ID: 65797
Title: REE and Y enrichment in peralkaline felsic rocks of the Siwana region, Rajasthan, northwestern India
Author: Suresh Kumar, Vivek V. Kumar , Shishir Bhardwaj , Rohit Sharma and Kiran J. Mishra
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 583-592 10 March (2024)
Subject: REE and Y enrichment in peralkaline felsic rocks of the Siwana region, Rajasthan, northwestern India
Keywords: Alkaline granite, igneous rocks, rare earth elements, soil profile, yttrium.
Abstract: In the modern world, rare earth elements (REE) and yttrium (Y) dominate the development of high-end electronic equipment and green energy technologies. The global economic deposits of REE and Y are primarily associated with alkaline and peralkaline igneous rocks. The REE deposit of the Siwana ring complex, Rajasthan, India, is entirely composed of peralkaline igneous rocks. This complex is made up of REE and Y-enriched (both LREE and HREE) peralkaline granite, rhyolite and its younger felsic intrusives such as rhyolite, microgranite, aplite and felsite dykes. We present a study of the REE and Y potential of granites, volcanic rocks and felsic dykes from 17 quarries in the Siwana area. Monazite, zircon and apatite were the primary (magmatic) REE-bearing phases identified under a microscope. The late/post-magmatic replacement in granite is evident as coarsening of perthite lamellae, pseudomorphic replacement of alkali feldspar grains by aegirine, replacement of aenigmatite by aegirine, etc. The granites, volcanic rocks and dykes show significant enrichment of REE + Y and other trace elements (Sn, Hf and U). A total of 20 rock samples were analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, which indicated significant REE + Y values ranging between 1061.22 and 9088.62 ppm, with an average of 2361.89 ppm. This includes LREE (707.42–5743.83 ppm, avg. 2080.40 ppm) and HREE (135.77–1422.23 ppm, avg. 402.41 ppm) Hf up to 425.55 ppm. Totally five samples from a soil profile were also analysed, yielding REE + Y values between 223.39 and 3175.75 ppm, with an average of 1714.51 ppm. The ion adsorption clay horizon developed within the soil profile showed a maximum REE + Y value of 3175.75 ppm.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: GoI, Mining of rare earth elements, Department of Aromic Energy, Government of India, Press release, 2023; https://www.pib.gov.in/ PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1914305. Hoatson, D. M., Jaireth, S. and Miezitis, Y., The major rare-earth element deposits of Australia: geological setting, exploration and resources. Geoscience Australia, Canberra, 2011, p. 204.
Literature cited 2: Long, K. R., Gosen, B. S. V., Foley, N. K. and Cordier, D., The principal rare earth elements deposits of the United States – a summary of domestic deposits and a global perspective. US Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report, 2010, SIR 2010– 5220, p. 96; http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2010/5220/ Varughese, S. K., Banerjee, A., Kamlesh, K., Bidwai, R., Sarbajna, C., Bhatt, A. K. and Verma, M. B., Field setting, mineralogy, geochemistry, and potential of acid volcanics hosting REE-Nb–Zr ± U mineralisation in Siwana ring complex, Barmer district, Rajasthan. In Proceedings of National Seminar on Strategic Mineral Exploration for Sustainable Development: Emerging Trends and Challenges, Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, Southern Region, Bengaluru, 7–8 May 2019, abst. vol., pp. 92–93.

ID: 65796
Title: Mineral chemistry of Mahadevpur H4/5 chondrite: characterization of nanodiamonds through micro-Raman spectroscopic studies
Author: Bhaskar J. Saikia, G. Parthasarathy , N. V. Chalapathi Rao, Vikas Seth and Rashmi R. Borah
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 574-582 10 March (2024)
Subject: Mineral chemistry of Mahadevpur H4/5 chondrite: characterization of nanodiamonds through micro-Raman spectroscopic studies
Keywords: Chondrite, mineral chemistry, nanodiamonds, shock metamorphism, spectroscopic analysis.
Abstract: Here, we present comprehensive electron probe micro analysis, laser Raman spectroscopic and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies on the Mahadevpur H4/5 chondrite. The calculated full width at half maximum (FWHM) value of ~14–17 cm–1 for the Raman peaks in the Mahadevpur meteorite is in accordance with the shock stage of S4 with medium shock pressure regime of 30–35 GPa. The nanodiamonds were characterized with the observation of Raman peaks at 1333–1358 cm–1 and 1600 cm–1 . The FWHM value of the Raman peaks reflects shock metamorphism in the meteorite. The XRD technique provides further independent validation of the nanodiamonds.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Krot, A. N., Keil, K., Scott, E. R. D., Goodrich, C. A. and Weisberg, M. K., Classification of meteorites and their genetic relationships. In Treatise on Geochemistry, 1. (eds Turekian, K. K. and Holland, H. D.), Elsevier, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 2013, 2nd edn, pp. 1–63. Dhingra, D. et al., Spectacular fall of the Kendrapara H5 chondrite. Meteorit. Planet. Sci., 2004, 39(S8), A121–A132
Literature cited 2: Parthasarathy, G. and Sarma, S. R., High-temperature electrical and thermal properties of Burdett, Dalhart, Faucet and Wellman ordinary chondrites. Curr. Sci., 2004, 86(10), 1366–136. Bhandari, N. et al., Bhawad, LL6 chondrite: chemistry, petrology, noble gases, nuclear tracks, and cosmogenic radionuclides. Meteorit. Planet. Sci., 2005, 40(7), 1015–1021.

ID: 65795
Title: Identification of tomato lines based on conventional and molecular tools for breeding
Author: Jagesh Kumar Tiwari, Nagendra Rai, Manish K. Singh, Lokesh K. Mishra, Gaurav Mishra and T. K. Behera
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 569-573 10 March (2024)
Subject: Identification of tomato lines based on conventional and molecular tools for breeding
Keywords: Breeding, elite lines, horticultural traits, tomato, virus
Abstract: Identifying elite lines is a major research priority for developing new hybrids/varieties. A total of 153 tomato lines were characterized based on horticultural traits, total soluble solids (TSS) and tomato yellow leaf curl virus (ToLCV) resistance under natural field conditions. Molecular markers were applied for ToLCV (Ty2 and Ty-3), late blight (Ph-3) and root-knot nematode (Mi-1.2) resistance genes. Based on horticultural traits such as average fruit weight, fruit yield, TSS and ToLCV resistance, promising lines were identified belonging to improved lines, jointless tomato, cherry tomato, beta-carotene-rich lines, germplasm and varieties. An improved line VRT-02 possessing dwarf plant type was found suitable for pot culture, whereas H-88-78-2 had a delayed and partial fruit ripening. Thus, the present study identified elite lines using conventional and molecular tools for tomato breeding
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Tiwari, J. K. et al., Progress in marker-assisted selection to genomics assisted breeding in tomato. Crit. Rev. Plant Sci., 2022, 41(5), 321–350. https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data (accessed on 17 June 2023)
Literature cited 2: Prasad, A., Sharma, N., Hari-Gowthem, G., Muthamilarasan, M. and Prasad, M., Tomato yellow leaf curl virus: impact, challenges, and management. Trends Plant Sci., 2020, 25(9), 897–911. Prasanna, H. C., Kashyap, S. P., Krishna, R., Sinha, D. P., Reddy, S. and Malathi, V. G., Marker assisted selection of Ty-2 and Ty-3 carrying tomato lines and their implications in breeding tomato leaf curl disease resistant hybrids. Euphytica, 2015, 204, 407–418

ID: 65794
Title: Insights into bacterial communities: multidrug-resistant and biofilm-forming bacteria in poultry droppings
Author: Namrata Jiya , Swapnil Kajale , Kunal Jani, Abhishek Keer , Chahat Markan , Monica Chavan , Ashwin V. Khandare , Mahendra D. Jamdhade , Alimuddin Zumla and Avinash 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. 126 (5) 562-568 10 March (2024)
Subject: Insights into bacterial communities: multidrug-resistant and biofilm-forming bacteria in poultry droppings
Keywords: Antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance, biofilms, multidrug-resistant bacteria, poultry droppings.
Abstract: An ever-increasing demand for high-quality protein sources like poultry products, along with excessive use of antibiotics in animal husbandry are contributing factors to the growing global problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The overuse of antibiotics in poultry and the dissemination of poultry faecal waste in the environment results in the propagation and spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. We investigated the bacterial diversity of poultry droppings by targeted amplicon sequencing and determined the resistance pattern of 165 bacterial isolates against various types of antibiotics. We found that the species of genera Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Escherichia, Proteus, Bacillus and Shigella showed resistance against beta-lactams, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, sulphonamide, nitrofurantoin, polymyxin E and aminoglycosides. In addition, we detected strong biofilm-producing isolates of Enterobacter, Bacillus, Proteus, Escherichia and Enterococcus. The detection of biofilm-forming MDR bacteria in poultry droppings highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate their growth and transmission. High-throughput sequencing revealed the differential prevalence of amplicon sequence variants belonging to Lactobacillus, Corynebacterium and Bacteroides. Functional imputations support the observed potential of biosynthesis of divergent antibiotics and drug resistance. Our findings highlight that poultry droppings harbour a diverse array of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, underscoring the significance of continuous surveillance and appropriate disposal methods to counteract the escalating problem of multidrug resistance under the ‘One Health’ approach.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Zumla, A. et al., Reducing the threat of epidemic-prone infections at mass gathering religious events. Lancet, 2022, 400, 80–82. Jani, K., Srivastava, V., Sharma, P., Vir, A. and Sharma, A., Easy access to antibiotics; spread of antimicrobial resistance and implementation of One Health approach in India. J. Epidemiol. Global Health, 2021, 11, 444–452
Literature cited 2: Koya, S. F., Ganesh, S., Selvaraj, S., Wirtz, V. J., Galea, S. and Rockers, P. C., Consumption of systemic antibiotics in India in 2019. Lancet Reg. Health Southeast Asia, 2022, 4, 100025. Kumar, H. et al., Understanding of colistin usage in food animals and available detection techniques: a review. Animals (Basel), 2021, 9(1), 178

ID: 65793
Title: Analysis of morphological changes in erythrocytes in malaria by shape descriptors prior to and after antimalarial drugs
Author: Maombi Edison, J. B. Jeeva and Megha 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. 126 (5) 555-561 10 March (2024)
Subject: Analysis of morphological changes in erythrocytes in malaria by shape descriptors prior to and after antimalarial drugs
Keywords: Antimalarial drugs, erythrocytes, grey-level intensity, Plasmodium falciparum malaria, shape descriptors
Abstract: In this study, malarial patients (n = 80) were treated for three days with artesunate and amodiaquine (ASAQ). Twenty healthy individuals in a similar age range were chosen as the control group. The contours of the erythrocytes were extracted from the processed microscopic images, and the shape parameters were derived from them. The erythrocytes were scanned along their largest diameter to determine the variation in grey-level intensity. The results showed that the change in shape parameters and grey-level intensity was similar to normal on day 4 after treatment. This provides novel insights into the contribution of ASAQ to the recovery of erythrocytes
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: WHO, World Malaria Report 2020: 20 years of global progress and challenges, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020. Maombi, E., Jeeva, J. B. and Megha, S., Digital analysis of changes by Plasmodium vivax malaria in erythrocytes. Indian J. Exp. Biol., 2011, 49, 11–15.
Literature cited 2: Depond, M., Henry, B., Buffet, P. and Ndour, P. A., Methods to investigate the deformability of RBC during Malaria. Front. Physiol., 2020, 10, 1613. Barber, B. E. et al., Reduced red blood cell deformability in Plasmodium knowlesi malaria. Blood Adv., 2018, 2(4), 433–443.

ID: 65792
Title: Soil carbon footprints and climate-smart soils
Author: T. Bhattacharyya
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 548-554 10 March (2024)
Subject: Soil carbon footprints and climate-smart soils
Keywords: Carbon footprints, climate change, climate-smart soils, global warming, sequestration.
Abstract: Carbon is sequestered in the soil in organic (SCSo) and inorganic (SCSi) forms. This sequestration is controlled by different soil properties. SCSo, a boon, enhances the physical and chemical conditions of the soil to improve soil drainage and provide adequate nutrition to the plants. SCSi, contributed mainly by pedogenic calcium carbonates (PCs), is a bane and degrades the soil chemically. Soil acts both as a source and sink of carbon. With the global warming threat looming, conservation of the soil for sustenance has gained more importance in view of its role in providing various ecosystem services, including food production. Therefore, identifying climate-smart soils that can withstand climate change and warming is important. These climate-smart soils will help identify global hotspots for soil conservation. The present study provides a method to measure soil carbon footprints (CFs) to identify climate-smart soils, citing a few examples from tropical India. This effort will help move forward the subject of soil carbon research and its importance for preserving this limited natural resource for humankind. Increased atmospheric carbon footprints (CF) are harmful, while those in the subsurface (soil) are good and will continue to save humanity from the vagaries of climate. It requires global awareness and proper utilization of the soils.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bhattacharyya, T., et al., Processes determining the sequestration and maintenance of carbon in soils: a synthesis of research from tropical India. Soil Horizons, 2014, 1–16; doi:10.2136/sh14-01-0001. 2. Anon., 2021; https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/resource/tasr2021_ IND_0.pdf (accessed on 18 July 2023).
Literature cited 2: Anon., 2019; https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/resource/TASR2019_IND.pdf (accessed on 18 July 2023). Ritchie, H., Roser, M. and Rosado, P., CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions, 2020; https://ourworldindata.org/co2-and-greenhouse-gasemissions

ID: 65791
Title: Revamping India’s groundwater monitoring network
Author: S. N. Dwivedi, Sujatro Ray Chowdhuri, Subhra Satapathy and Ratikanta Nayak
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 542-547 10 March (2024)
Subject: Revamping India’s groundwater monitoring network
Keywords: Aquifers, climate change, groundwater level, high-frequency data, monitoring networks
Abstract: Groundwater level is the most important parameter in any study involving the evaluation, development and management of groundwater resources. Systematic monitoring of groundwater levels, which commenced with the establishment of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), has been of immense use in addressing several challenges like prioritization of areas for groundwater recharge, delineating areas prone to waterlogging, estimation of storage change in the aquifers, estimation of groundwater flow, etc. In a major boost to strengthen groundwater monitoring in the country, the Government of India has sanctioned a special project under which CGWB has envisaged to construct 9000 purpose-built wells (piezometers) in identified priority areas, which will be equipped with digital water-level recorders (DWLRs) and telemetry devices for acquisition and transmission of groundwater levels at increased frequency. The intended uses of the long-term high-frequency data include monitoring short-term and long-term changes in the groundwater levels, groundwater storage and recharge to the aquifers, monitoring the effects of climatic variability, estimating transboundary flow, assessing regional effects of groundwater development, quantifying impacts of water conservation and artificial recharge projects, and improved understanding of groundwater and surface water interactions. High-frequency groundwater level data also have the potential for steering multi-institutional collaborative research projects in the country, particularly for studying the impact of groundwater extraction on land subsidence, the relationship between groundwater levels and tectonic disturbances, and climate change impacts on the groundwater regime.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Taylor, C. J. and Alley, W. M., Ground-water-level monitoring and the importance of long-term water-level data. Report of United States Geological Survey, Denver, CO, USA, 2001, vol. 1217, p. 77. http://cgwb.gov.in/ (accessed on 24 November 2023).
Literature cited 2: CGWB, Ground Water Year Book – India 2021–22, Central Ground Water Board, 2022, p. 107; http://cgwb.gov.in/cgwbpnm/publication-detail/235 Swain, S., Taloor, A. K., Dhal, L., Sahoo, S. and Al-Ansari, N., Impact of climate change on groundwater hydrology: a comprehensive review and current status of the Indian hydrogeology. Appl. Water Sci., 2022, 12(6), 120

ID: 65790
Title: An endangered wild kiwi fruit Actinidia callosa var. strigillosa C. F. Liang (Actinidiaceae) from India
Author: Abhilash Padhan, Dinesh Singh Thakur Kumar Ambrish
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 539-541 10 March (2024)
Subject: An endangered wild kiwi fruit Actinidia callosa var. strigillosa C. F. Liang (Actinidiaceae) from India
Keywords: None
Abstract: In this study, the wild kiwi fruit Actinidia callosa var. strigillosa is reported for the first time from the wild habitat of North Sikkim district, Sikkim, North East India. It is a dioecious climbing shrub with separate male and female vines. The fruits from the female vine are consumed by local tribes, either raw or on ripening, which directly contributes towards their nutritional security1 . The green leafy parts, along with young stems, are used as fodder, whereas the older stems are used for making ropes due to higher fibre content. This report on the occurrence of wild kiwi fruit from the Lachen area, along with its taxonomical description, will be helpful for researchers to locate it in other areas of India
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Padhan, A. et al., Genet. Resour. Crop Evol., 2023, 71, 39–52. Mao, A. A. and Dash, S. S., Flowering Plants of India: An Annotated Check l, Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata, 2020, vol. 1, p. 161.
Literature cited 2: Henare, S. J., In Nutritional Composition of Fruit Cultivars (eds Simmonds, M. S. J. and Preedy, V. R.), Academic Press, San Diego, USA, 2016, pp. 337–370. Lindley, J., A Natural System of Botany or a Systematic View of the Organisation, Natural Affinities, and Geographical Distribution of the Whole Vegetable Kingdom, Longman, London, UK, 1836, 2nd edn.

ID: 65789
Title: Save the Sundarbans
Author: K. Kathiresan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 536-538 10 March (2024)
Subject: Save the Sundarbans
Keywords: None
Abstract: The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, covering a total area of 10,200 km2 , of which 42% is in India and the remaining is in Bangladesh. It is located in the Gangetic Delta, the world’s largest wetland with the highest sedimentation. It is the only mangrove–tiger kingdom in the world and is internationally recognized as a ‘World Heritage Site’ of UNESCO and a Ramsar Site. The Sundarbans is a crucial biodiversity hotspot, offering unique habitats for terrestrial and marine wildlife, as it is located between land and sea. It is a ‘heaven’ for globally threatened species such as tigers, fishing cats, Gangetic dolphins, Irrawaddy dolphins, estuarine crocodiles, horseshoe crabs, water monitor lizards, sea turtles, otters and river terrapins. Several species have already become extinct in the Sundarbans, e.g. Javan rhinoceros, water buffalo, swamp deer, hog deer and marsh crocodile. Covering 42% of mangrove cover, the Sundarbans is the largest mangrove area in India, supporting 28 mangroves, 55 mangrove associates and 2628 fauna, and the organisms are remarkably adapted to rigorously fluctuating tidal conditions1,
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kathiresan, K., Curr. Sci., 2018, 114, 1– 6. Kathiresan, K., Curr. Sci., 2023, 125, 721– 722.
Literature cited 2: Kathiresan, K., Indian For., 2021, 147, 758–761. FSI, SFR mangroves cover: India State of Forest Report, Forest Survey of India, Dehradun, 2021, pp. 64–72

ID: 65788
Title: Convalescent millets combating against non-communicable diseases
Author: Aayushi Nagwanshi, Tapas Chakma, Suman Kumar Ray, Kritika Singh and Suyesh Shrivastava
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 534-535 10 March (2024)
Subject: Convalescent millets combating against non-communicable diseases
Keywords: None
Abstract: Non-communicable diseases and hunger are significant global issues, with undernourishment and hunger creating a vicious cycle. Promoting millets during the International Year of Millets in 2023 with the theme ‘Healthy millets, healthy people’ is a healthier option than rice or wheat. Millets offer health benefits such as low glycaemic index, high fibre content and antioxidant properties. They also help regulate blood sugar levels, aid in weight control and lower the risk of obesity. The National Millets Mission was launched by the Government of India to encourage the production and consumption of millets, nutrient-dense, high-energy foods that can help deal with non-communicable diseases and significantly combat the global burden of these diseases and global hunger. Owing to the benefits of millets, including them in the daily diet can decrease the chances of cardiovascular diseases and ultimately improve the health of people.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Dias-Martins, A. M., Pessanha, K. L. F., Pacheco, S., Rodrigues, J. A. S. and Carvalho, C. W. P., Food Res. Int., 2018, 109, 175–186. https://apeda.gov.in/milletportal/Production. html (last accessed on 14 November 2023)
Literature cited 2: http://www.nuscommunity.org/initiatives/ ifad-eu-ccafs-nus/kodo-and-kutki-milletsin-madhya-pradesh/ (last accessed on 14 November 2023). https://apeda.gov.in/milletportal/files/Madhya_Pradesh_Millet_Value_Added_Products_Catalogue.pdf (last accessed on 14 November 2023).

ID: 65787
Title: The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill 2023: a balancing act of rights and obligations
Author: Padmesh P. Pillai
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2024
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 126 (5) 532-533 10 March (2024)
Subject: The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill 2023: a balancing act of rights and obligations
Keywords: None
Abstract: The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2023 was approved by both houses of the Indian Parliament in August 2023. The Bill introduces major changes compared to the National Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and the subsequent Rules, 2004. The amendments ease the process of patent filing for Indian citizens and support the livelihood of indigenous people associated with biodiversity-related activities. The introduction of a new term, ‘codified traditional knowledge’ will make few activities distinct from ‘traditional knowledge’. The Bill has provisions to protect the nation’s rich biological wealth, including that deposited in the International Depository Authority. It is a positive move to protect the larger interest of India while honouring the international obligations under various treaties and conventions.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: The Biological Diversity (amendment) Act 2023. The Gazette of India, 3 August 2023, No. 10 of 2023
Literature cited 2: GoI, The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and Biological Diversity Rules, 2004, National Biodiversity Authority, Government of India, 2004, p. 74.