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India is rich in agrobiodiversity and is considered to be one of the important countries for production of food, oilseed and horticultural crops, spices, and medicinal plants. However, the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity has been rapidly increasing in India due to unhealthy food habits, for example, changing from healthy unpolished brown rice to highly polished white rice. Bringing back our traditional foods such as millets and making use of India's rich biodiversity could help improve the health of its population and help in preventing and control of NCDs such as T2D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the global burden of cancer continues to escalate, the holistic care of patients demands innovative approaches that extend beyond medical interventions. This article delves into the transformative landscape of cancer care in Kerala, India, focusing on the intersection of technology and psycho-oncology. Examining the role of the state government, Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), and individual startups and institutions, including Malabar Cancer Institute and Cochin Cancer Research Centre, we explore how technological innovations, telemedicine, and e-health solutions are actively shaping psycho-oncological support. Leveraging on case studies, we identify notable innovations, including artificial intelligence-based cancer screening, personalized treatment plans, and mental health support. The results signify a paradigm shift toward comprehensive, patient-centric cancer care, potentially influencing broader health care strategies. Despite acknowledging regional specificity and potential biases, the study underscores the transformative role of technological entrepreneurship in revolutionizing cancer care, paving avenues for future research for integrating psycho-oncological support in health care policies and startup initiatives. Overall, the article highlights the evolving landscape in Kerala as a beacon for holistic and patient-centric strategies that prioritize mental health alongside medical interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Fimbristylis pachmarhiensis (Cyperaceae), is described and illustrated from Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve of Hoshangabad district, Madhya Pradesh, India. This new species bears resemblance to its closest morphological relatives, F. aestivalis and F. griffithii, but differs from both by a combination of characters, primarily including its slender culm, exceptionally lax inflorescence, cylindrical spikelets, triquetrous structure, and the presence of fine hairs covering the entire length of the style. Additionally, the achenes of this species exhibit sparse tuberculation and have a depressed apex. A detailed description, phenology, distribution, IUCN conservation status, a comparative analysis contrasting F. pachmarhiensis with its closely related species, relevant taxonomic notes and colour photographs are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was conducted at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India during September, 2021-May, 2022 to study the variation of Alternaria brassiciola infecting cabbage. Fifteen isolates of Alternaria brassicicola which infected cabbage were collected from six different districts in Assam and their variability was investigated. Within the in vitro setting, it was observed that all isolates exhibited significant variation in terms of conidial length, breadth, and septal count. The isolates displayed a range of average conidial length and breadth spanning from 20.45μm to 29.74μm and 6.56μm to 9.89μm, respectively. Additionally, the isolates exhibited a variation in transverse septa with counts ranging from 4 to 6 and longitudinal septa, ranging from 0.13 to 0.41. Regarding the colony colour, four distinct variations, ranging from dark grey-green to dark brown-green and from mild olive green to greyish olive green were observed. These colonies featured edges in shades of white, greyish, brownish, or green edges and their shapes varied between round and irregular, accompanied by either a fluffy or compressed growth pattern. The diameter of the radial growth, observed on the fifteenth day after inoculation, varied from 57.3 mm to 84.2 mm. In RAPD analysis it was evident that the Jorhat isolates (AbJor_2) and the Barpeta isolate, (AbBa_1) exhibited the highest genetic similarity, as indicated by the lowest genetic distance with the coefficient of similarity 0.484. Conversely, the Jorhat isolates (AbJor_3) and Barpeta isolate (AbBa_1) shared the least genetic similarity, with the coefficient of similarity 0.021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid global concerns regarding climate change and urbanization, understanding the interplay between land use/land cover (LULC) changes, the urban heat island (UHI) effect, and land surface temperatures (LST) is paramount. This study provides an in-depth exploration of these relationships in the context of the Kamrup Metropolitan District, Northeast India, over a period of 22 years (2000–2022) and forecasts the potential implications up to 2032. Employing a high-accuracy supervised machine learning algorithm for LULC analysis, significant transformations are revealed, including the considerable growth in urban built-up areas and the corresponding decline in cultivated land. Concurrently, a progressive rise in LST is observed, underlining the escalating UHI effect. This association is further substantiated through correlation studies involving the normalized difference built-up index (NDBI) and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The study further leverages the cellular automata–artificial neural network (CA-ANN) model to project the potential scenario in 2032, indicating a predicted intensification in LST, especially in regions undergoing rapid urban expansion. The findings underscore the environmental implications of unchecked urban growth, such as rising temperatures and the intensification of UHI effects. Consequently, this research stresses the critical need for sustainable land management and urban planning strategies, as well as proactive measures to mitigate adverse environmental changes. The results serve as a vital resource for policymakers, urban planners, and environmental scientists working towards harmonizing urban growth with environmental sustainability in the face of escalating global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three remaining untypified Linnaean binomials in the genus Barleria, described based on material from India, are lectotypified: B. buxifolia, B. hystrix and B. longifolia. The confusion over the taxonomic identity of B. buxifolia is discussed and the need for an epitype indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In the quest of achieving sustainable crop productivity, improved soil health, and increased carbon (C) sequestration in the soil, conservation agriculture (CA) is increasingly being promoted and adopted in the Indian subcontinent. However, because some researchers from different regions of the world have reported reduced crop yield under CA relative to agriculture based on conventional tillage (CT), a meta-analysis has been conducted based on published research from India to evaluate the effects of CA on the yield of crops, accumulation of soil organic C as an index of soil health, and C sequestration in the soil in different regions and soil textural groups in the country. The meta-analysis is based on 544 paired observations under CA and CT from 35 publications from India was carried out using Meta Win 2.1 software. The results showed an overall significant (p < 0.05) reduction of 1.15% crop yield under CA compared to CT. Yearwise data showed a reduction of yields under CA from 2009 to 2016, but an increase from 2017 to 2020. Yield reduction was observed in the eastern, north-eastern, and southern regions of India but in western, northern, and north-western regions of the country, an increase was observed under CA rather than CT. Sandy loam and clayey soils exhibited higher crop yield under CA than under CT. Compared to CT, soil organic C content and soil C sequestration under CA increased by 8.9% and 7.3%, respectively. Also, in all the regions and soil textural groups both soil organic C accumulation and soil C sequestration were higher under CA than under CT. Factors such as rainfall, soil depth, available nitrogen (N), and total N significantly influenced the extent of yield increase/decrease and soil organic C accumulation under CA. Overall, results of the meta-analysis suggest that the promotion of CA in India will have to be location-specific taking into consideration the crops, soil attributes, and climatic conditions., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Meibomia bakeriana Kuntze is the earliest legitimate species name available for Baker's illegitimate Desmodium rotundifolium. Alysicarpus rotundifolius Dalzell ex Prain and Desmodium ritchiei Sanjappa are illegitimate superfluous names for the same species, whereas Desmodiastrum rotundifolium (A.Pramanik and Thoth.) Sanjappa cannot be used because of the lack of priority. H. Ohashi and K. Ohashi published an isonym in Desmodiastrum. The new combination Desmodiastrum bakerianum (Kuntze) Kottaim. is proposed here in order to provide a correct name for the species occurring in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted comprising of four widely divergent genetic materials of tomato viz. BCT- 111 rin possessing specific mutant genes and CLN B, Patharkutchi, BCT-53 are normal lines without possessing specific genes in Central Research Farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India during autumn-winter (2018‒19 to 2019‒20) aimed to evaluate genotype level variation due to rin gene in both homozygous and heterozygous condition for different characters. Three hybrids viz. BCT-111 rin×CLN B, BCT-111 rin×Patharkuchi, BCT-111 rin×BCT-53 were developed involving BCT-111 rin and normal 3 genotypes. The seven genotypes including the parental lines and hybrids exhibited wide range of variations in different traits namely, plant height (84.59‒106.94 cm), number of days to first flowering after transplanting (25.7‒41.26), number of flower clusters plant-1 (18.21‒25.69), number of flowers cluster-1 (5.73‒8.48), number of fruits plant-1 (49.22‒76.02), fruit weight (37.89‒97.50 g), equatorial diameter (24.71‒52.60 mm), polar diameter (26.00‒47.81 mm), locule number fruit-1 (2.48‒3.96), pericarp thickness (4.94‒6.84), fruit yield plant-1 (2.93‒4.07 kg), total soluble solids (3.95‒6.21° brix), total sugar content (1.43‒3.47%), reducing sugar (1.21%‒2.58%), titratable acidity (0.36%‒0.64%), ascorbic acid content (25.66‒34.76 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight), lycopene content (0.38‒4.16 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight) and β-carotene (0.24‒0.60 µg 100 g-1 fresh weight). In the genotype possessing the ripening inhibitor rin gene in homozygous condition, fruit did not ripe and lycopene biosynthesis was severely reduced. However, in heterozygous condition, lycopene biosynthesis was almost normal which amply justified the possibility of utilizing the genotype possessing ripening inhibitor rin gene for development of commercial hybrids of tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we discuss the identity, occurrence and recollection of Rubus gardenerianus Kuntze (Rosaceae), an unresolved name of a poorly known species distributed in southern parts of south India and Sri Lanka. We also designate a lectotype for R. gardenerianus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological variability in Cyanotis fasciculata over a range of habitats in central and Peninsular India is illustrated and discussed. Cyanotis deccanensis and C. reutiana are synonymized with C. fasciculata. Lectotypes are designated for the names C. decumbens Wight, C. dichrotricha Stocks ex Wight, C. eriantha Hassk., C. fasciculata var. glabrescens C.B. Clarke, C. karliana Hassk., C. lawiana Wight, C. reutiana Beauverd, C. rosea Wight and C. thwaitesii Hassk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological variation in Impatiens goughii (Balsaminaceae) from different areas of the southern Western Ghats, India, is studied and discussed, including an amended morphological circumscription of the taxon. An epitype and a lectotype are designated for I. goughii, and I. danii, I. omissa, I. parvifolia and I. raktakesara are synonymized with it. Additionally, lectotypes are designated for I. anamallayensis and I. microtheca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollinator conservation is a global priority. Efforts are taken to restore pollinators by improving flower resources, a crucial driver of pollinator diversity and population growth. It helped gardening and landscaping supply chains, which introduced lists of bee-friendly plants and bee hotels, yet, desirable results seem distant. One shortcoming of the present schemes is that they lack a cohesive planning for nesting opportunities and nesting provisions for wild solitary bees, the crucial pollinators of crop and wild plants. We tested whether the world's popular ornamental plant, rose (Rosa chinensis Jacq.)—a hitherto unlisted bee-friendly plant—can aid in conserving leafcutter bees, which require fresh leaves for constructing nest cells. We surveyed 2360 rose plants in 136 sites in rural and urban places and lowlands and highlands of south (8°N–12°N) and northeastern India (26°N–27°N) for the characteristic notches the bees leave on foraged leaves. We reared brood constructed with rose and non-rose leaves to examine the brood success rate. About a quarter of all the roses surveyed had the notches of leafcutter bees on the leaves. However, the proportion of cut roses varied considerably among sites. Bees used roses much higher in urban areas and lowlands than in rural areas and highlands. The selection of plants was negatively associated with pesticide application. The brood success rate was 100% for the brood that was constructed by the leaves of rose and non-rose plants. Rose flowers do not support bees, but rose leaves indeed do. We recommend rose plants in leafcutter bee conservation and restoration schemes, particularly in urban environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a major public health problem since its inception disrupting public life and crippling health systems. The mutated variant of the causative virus, Delta, has been notorious in causing rapid upsurge in cases compared to the Alpha variant. The current study tries to find out the household secondary attack rate (HSAR) of COVID-19 and factors associated with it during the second wave of cases in Kerala. Methodology: A retrospective cohort study was performed among 313 household contacts of 76 COVID-19 patients who had been admitted in Government Medical College, Thrissur, in the southern state of India, Kerala. Data from the participants were collected via phone using a semi-structured interview schedule, and analysis was performed with SPSS software. Results: The HSAR among household contacts was 59.1% (53.4-64.6%). The risk of acquiring COVID infection among household contacts was higher among contacts of symptomatic index cases with a P value of 0.001 and an odds ratio of 11 (3.7-32.4). index cases were having a home isolation P value of 0.001 and an odds ratio of 3.2 (2-5.1), with delay in COVID-19 testing for index cases with a P value of 0.006. Regarding characteristics of household contacts, higher age groups (p = 0.048), groups living in the same room with an index case P value of 0.021 and an odds ratio of [1.71 (1-2.8)], groups having physical contact with an index case P value of 0.001 and an odds ratio of [3.7 (2.1-7)], groups with touched or cleaned linen/articles with an index case P value of 0.02 and an odds ratio of [1.8 (1-3.1)], and groups having co-morbidities, especially diabetes mellitus (p = 0.0020), were significantly associated with chances of acquiring infection. However, the history of previous COVID positivity in household contacts was a protective factor against the infection P value of 0.009 with an odds ratio of [0.09 (0.01-0.78)]. Conclusion: The study concludes that the second wave of COVID-19 in Kerala was primarily caused by a high SAR, especially among household contacts, and this could have been the reason for the difficulty in control measures during the wave. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with an integrated work on the study of megafossils, palynoflora, and biomarkers in the Hingula Opencast Coal Project, Talcher Basin, Odisha, India. The macrofloral assemblage recovered from the lower grey shale bed of the investigated outcrop comprises Schizoneura gondwanensis, equisetaceous stem (Equisetales), Neomariopteris hughesii (Filicales), 19 species of Glossopteris, Vertebraria indica and stem cast (Glossopteridales). The megafloral assemblage and lithology (fine to medium-grained feldspathic grey shale) of the litho-column strongly suggest that the sediments belong to the Barakar Formation of late Early Permian (Artinskian-Kungurian) age. The palynofloral assemblage identified from the upper carbonaceous shale bed of the same outcrop is characterised by the dominance of Striatopodocarpites spp. and sub-dominance of Faunipollenites spp. Stratigraphically significant taxa of this palynoassemblage show its affinity towards the Late Permian (Wordian-Capitanian) age. The first-ever biomarker study of Talcher Basin has been undertaken as a part of the present investigation, which reveals the occurrence of short to long-chain hydrocarbons, indicating the presence of aquatic, microbial, and higher plant input. The predominance of n-C25 in most of the samples indicates moderate-to-high water levels. Similarly, the prevalence of pristane over phytane depicts suboxic to oxic basin conditions during deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Surangea Chitaley et Sheikh, based on permineralized specimens from the Deccan Intertrappean Beds of central India, was originally considered to represent a fern megasporangium. Reexamination of original material and new specimens has revealed that the structures are capsular fruits with well-defined seeds, rather than megasporangia. We describe Surangea fruits in detail, based on peels and micro-CT scanning, and document its distribution among multiple localities of the Deccan Intertrappean Beds. The fruits are pentacarpellate septicidal capsules with ~8-12 seeds per locule. The seeds are prominently ornamented with parallel ridges and have a curved embryo/endosperm cavity and a prominent aril. This set of features indicates eudicotyledonous affinities for Surangea. In particular, the combination of septicidal capsules, axile placentation and arillate campylotropus seeds suggests affinity with the order Myrtales, but it does not fit cleanly within an extant family. Surangea fruits add to the diversity of angiosperms known from this late Maastrichtian flora. It joins several other fruit types known from the Deccan flora that do not fall neatly into extant families, possibly representing parts of an endemic community that succumbed to environmental stress associated K-Pg boundary events and/or subsequent northward rafting of the Indian subcontinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian species Portulaca suffruticosa has been confused with other taxa by many previous authors, due to lack of field collections and a paucity of specimens in Indian herbaria. Following a morphological taxonomic study supported by new field collections, P. suffruticosa is confirmed as an accepted species endemic to southern India and Sri Lanka, and as distinct from P. pilosa and P. tuberosa. The more recently described species P. lakshminarasimhaniana and P. laljii are considered to be conspecific with P. suffruticosa, and P. badamica conspecific with P. tuberosa; their names are accordingly synonymised. Lectotypifications of the names P. suffruticosa Wight, P. tuberosa Roxb. and P. wightiana Wall. ex Wight & Arn. were found to be necessary to avoid future misapplication of names and full descriptions of these three species are provided. A key to all Indian species of Portulaca is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uraria prunellifolia and U. paniculata are medicinally important, and rare in occurrence. The former is believed to be extinct in some parts of India, and the latter was recently rediscovered. The nomenclatural history of U. prunellifolia and U. paniculata is discussed here, and both the names are typified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India has witnessed a rapid expansion in the higher education institutions and with this fast pace of growth day by day, competition has set in among the institutes. Before taking admission in an institution student assess the facilities and standard of the institution by referring to the website, other admission portals and by taking peer opinion and public perception. Educational institutions around the world are now requesting students' feedback on all elements of academic life in the form of a satisfaction feedback questionnaire. The goal of this research is to describe the development and implementation of a survey to assess undergraduate and postgraduate student satisfaction. The Student Satisfaction Survey is a useful and effective instrument that tries to focus resources on areas, where there is low satisfaction but high importance. This paper gives detailed information about the methodology, calculation and outcome of the exercise utilizing Likert scale analysis. With the recent emerging trends, this innovative method offers flexibility to integrate more parameters, group certain parameters to get feedback on a particular issue and transmute the type of questions with changing environment and structure. The analysis is done using a statistical method. The survey result directly highlights the importance and flexibility of method to evaluate overall satisfaction, satisfaction cognate to a single parameter and satisfaction for questions grouped together underlining some paramount aspects of higher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birches (Betula) are ecologically important plants in the Indian Himalayan Region, but they are still not fully understood from the taxonomic point of view. To provide a basis for taxonomic research, we present a taxonomic synopsis of Betula in India and an account of the material on which the names are based. Lectotypes are designated for the names B. acuminata Lindl. (synonym of B. alnoides Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don), B. cylindrostachya Wall. ex Lindl. and B. jacquemontii Spach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The name Ophiorrhiza radicans Gardner ex Thwaites (Rubiaceae) is lectotypified and a detailed taxonomic description is provided along with stereomicroscope images, map of its distribution in S India, and SEM images of pollen grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graham's posthumous publication (Cat. Pl. Bombay, 1839) was completed by Joseph Nimmo, in addition to contributing several new species in it. Croton gibsonianus Nimmo and C. lawianus Nimmo (Euphorbiaceae) were part of this addition, and both were described based on Gibson's collection from adjoining localities in the Western India. As the diagnosis of the latter species was scant, it was subsequently interpreted in different genera viz. Dimorphocalyx, Trigonostemon and Tritaxis. Due to misinterpretation of the protologue and Gibson's Croton collection housed at K, the name C. lawianus was wrongly applied to C. gibsonianus by subsequent authors. This inadvertent application of name is corrected here and referred to the hitherto undescribed new species C. chakrabartyi. Our recent collection of C. gibsonianus has turned out to be a rediscovery after 170 years. The nomenclature, description, photographs, and distribution of C. gibsonianus are provided to avoid further taxonomic ambiguity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A synopsis of the genus Erythrina (Fabaceae) in India is presented based on herbarium records, literature, and material available online. Lectotypes are designated for the names E. arborescens Roxb., E. fusca Lour., E. indica Lam. (synonym of E. variegata L.), E. resupinata Roxb. and E. stricta Roxb., and a neotype is designated for E. lithosperma Blume ex Miq. Historical information on the typification of the name E. mysorensis Gamble is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1814, A.W. Roth received a herbarium collection of some 1500 plants from Benjamin Heyne. Most of these specimens came from southern India where Heyne had worked as a doctor and naturalist since 1792. Roth wrote up the material in his book Novae plantarum, which was published in 1821. However, he provided a manuscript copy to Roemer and Schultes, who were compiling an edition of Systema vegetabilium. Many of Roth's new names based on the Heyne material first appeared in the first six volumes of the Systema. In this paper, 411 names published in Novae plantarum are listed with their correct citation and typification. The typification of Roth's names is complicated by the loss of a high proportion of his personal herbarium in Berlin in 1943. Notable points include: Jasminum montanum Roth is the correct name for J. arborescens Roxb., Panicum pilosissimum Roth is the correct name for P. rudgei Roem. & Schult. and Euphorbia linearifolia Roth does not need to be replaced by E. deccanensis V.S.Raju. Many names are typified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sida angustifolia (Malvaceae) was erroneously identified as S. spinosa and synonymized under it. The taxonomic identity and distribution of S. angustifolia is discussed and the binomial is lectotypified. A detailed description, illustration, photographs, and distribution map of S. angustifolia are provided and its morphological differences from S. spinosa are elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the mutualistic facilitation of invasive plants, we examined the mycorrhizal status of 469 species, including 335 alien and 134 native to the region of Kashmir Himalaya, India. Data on the mycorrhizal status and altitudinal range of the target species were obtained using some peer reviewed primary published and web based sources. One sample Z score test and regression analysis were performed to workout the relative proportion of mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants in different altitudinal belts and relationship of mycorrhizal symbiosis with increasing altitude, respectively. With increasing altitude, the mycorrhizal association of both the alien and native plant species showed a decreasing trend, although alien plant species showed much stronger negative values than native species do. Both aliens and native species showed significantly higher proportion of mycorrhizal species compared to non-mycorrhizal counterparts in all the vegetation zones (Temperate, Montane, Sub-alpine and Alpine). Interestingly, in none of the vegetation zones do aliens and natives differ in terms of their mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal species fractions, suggesting that change in mycorrhizal symbioses along any elevational gradient occurs more due to restrictions on mycorrhizal fungi survival than due to the identity of the species concerned. These trends call for further studies at wider geographical scales to better understand the mechanisms and implications of mycorrhizal associations for managementof alien plant invasion in such eco-climatically sensitive regions, especially in the context of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Locally adapted native indigenous plant species (NIPS) could restore the crop diversity in sustainable agriculture., Methods: Here, we report the molecular identification and nutritional profiling of some five NIPS of Karnataka; Musa paradisiaca cv. Nanjangud rasabale, Piper betle L. cv. Mysore betel leaf, Jasminum grandiflorum cv Mysore mallige, Solanum melongena L. cv. Udupi Mattu Gulla and S. melongena L. cv. Erangere badane of which the first four are Geographical Indication (GI) tagged. The samples were procured, authenticated and sequenced using two standard DNA barcodes: nuclear ITS2 and plastid rbcl., Results: The phylogenetic analysis using Neighborhood joining method revealed all the ITS2 tree topologies with higher genetic divergence than rbcl. All the rbcl tree topologies were monophyletic indicating sequence conservation. Though the concatenated ITS2 + rbcl trees had higher bootstrap support (> 98% except Solanum sp.) differences were observed because of the lack of available sequence deposition at species level. The proximate and nutritional profiling of the NIPS displayed superiority in terms of their nutritional profile and their potential application in phytopharmaceutical sector as nutritional supplements., Conclusion: To our best knowledge this is the first study reporting the screening of five NIPS plant species of Karnataka for phylogeny and nutritional analysis. We also anticipate that if research towards the identification of NIPS species is accelerated, these nutritionally enhanced crops could be used as a safe and sustainable food in changing global climatic conditions., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

A six-gene phylogeny of the Inocybaceae is presented to address classification of major clades within the family. Seven genera are recognized that establish a global overview of phylogenetic relationships in the Inocybaceae. Two genera—Nothocybe and Pseudosperma—are described as new. Two subgenera of Inocybe—subg. Inosperma and subg. Mallocybe—are elevated to generic rank. These four new genera, together with the previously described Auritella, Tubariomyces, and now Inocybe sensu stricto, constitute the Inocybaceae, an ectomycorrhizal lineage of Agaricales that associates with at least 23 plant families worldwide. Pseudosperma, Nothocybe, and Inocybe are recovered as a strongly supported inclusive clade within the family. The genus Nothocybe, represented by a single species from tropical India, is strongly supported as the sister lineage to Inocybe, a hyperdiverse genus containing hundreds of species and global distribution. Two additional inclusive clades, including Inosperma, Tubariomyces, Auritella, and Mallocybe, and a nested grouping of Auritella, Mallocybe, and Tubariomyces, are recovered but with marginal statistical support. Overall, the six-gene data set provides a more robust phylogenetic estimate of relationships within the family than do single-gene and single-gene-region estimates. In addition, Africa, India, and Australia are characterized by the most genera in the family, with South America containing the fewest number of genera. A total of 180 names are recombined or proposed as new in Inosperma, Mallocybe, and Pseudosperma. A key to genera of Inocybaceae is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper intends to identify teaching competency of English teachers at secondary level of Tripura Board of Secondary Education (T.B.S.E.). Descriptive method is applied to collect data and stratified random sampling was applied during the 2016-2017 academic year. A standardized tool was administrated to measure teaching competency of English. The present paper intends to test the significant association of English teaching competency with selected variables. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to draw inference on the hypothesis. The major recommendations focused that: English teachers of T.B.S.E. should be given individual attention to each of the learners, English teachers of T.B.S.E. should impart teaching properly without discriminating of gender bias, individual attention must be given to poor performing students in English subject, English teachers of T.B.S.E. must not use too much vernacular (mother tongue) languages in the class while teaching a foreign or second language, English teachers of T.B.S.E. should be more punctual, serious while teaching, The teachers of English belonging from T.B.S.E. should be very conscious at preparation, presentation, closing, evaluation and managerial part of the teaching, and should take care of individual attention to each of the learners. The paper grounded the proposition that English teaching competency can be achieved when the three phases of teaching (preactive phase, inter-active phase and post-active phase) will have their proper coordination in terms of context-specific application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distinctive permineralized fruits of Baccatocarpon mohgaoense (Paradkar & Dixit) comb. nov. have been collected from several sites in the late Maastrichtian of the Deccan Intertrappean beds of Central India. We describe the peculiar fruits in detail, based on combined investigations by reflected light and X-ray CT scanning. Three-dimensional renderings and virtual slices confirm that the fruits have two lateral single-seeded locules and a central sterile chamber filled with parenchyma. The endocarp is thin-walled and opens apically longitudinal valves. Here we validate the generic name Baccatocarpon Bhowal & Sheikh ex Manchester, Ramteke, Kapgate & S.Y. Smith and recognize a single species, for which the name Baccatocarpon mohgaoense (Paradkar & Dixit) comb. nov. has priority. We document the occurrence of this species in cherts from the paleobotanical sites known as Bhutera, Keria, Mahurzari, Mohgoankalan, Paladaun, Marai Patan and Shibla. The systematic affinity of these fruits remains mysterious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altogether eighty one (81) impressions of slender leafy axes of Schizoneura gondwanensis were reported in ferruginous shales from Lower Kamthi sediments exposed in a very remote locality near Korbahal Village, Sundargarh District, Ib River Lower Gondwana basin, Odisha, India. Different aspects of Schizoneura, one of the imperative equisetalean genera of the Indian Lower Gondwana flora, have been discussed in this article. The speciation and morphology of this genus are also described. Further, a review of previous work on this genus is summarized for a clear understanding of its form, habit, diversity, origin, evolution and extinction. An attempt has also been made to reconstruct the plant of Schizoneura. Palaeoclimate during Late Permian is also summarized. The climate was comparatively warm and highly humid and thus quite suitable for luxuriant plant growth. However, the red bed facies of the ferruginous sandstones indicate seasonal variability of dry spells and semi-arid conditions. An attempt has also been made to reconstruct palaeovegetation of the investigated locality. A forest of hydrophytic plants, dominated by Schizoneura gondwanensis developed luxuriantly under warm and highly humid conditions in a marsh ecosystem in general and possibly around a large pond in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leucinodes orbonalis Guenée is serious quarantine pest occurring globally, studies are needed to enlighten the genetic complexities associated with the species. India is considered to be the origin of the L. orbonalis, therefore availability of species records from this region enable to analyse the genetic differences and dispersal of the lineages. The results of the study reported 47 haplotypes in four clusters pertaining to their ancestral lineage. The transition/transversion bias (R) was observed to be higher with 1.238 and 1.312 in the first and third codon positions respectively. The overall intraspecies divergence was found to be 0.302. AMOVA revealed that the total variations were then as reported 67.15 among the south-east countries but our studies reported the total variation to be 77.25% (Germany, India, South east and Australia). FST and Mantel's test indicated that there was no correlation between the genetic variation and geographical distance. The overall haplotype diversity was 0.852, where the nucleotide diversity of H31 (0.00593) was highest and H1 (0.00087) was lowest. The genetic diversity indices Tajima D and Fu's Fs static for H1, H13 and H31 had negative values which possibly inferred for the bottle neck effect. The ML tree was constituted the branch length of 5.0157 with one out-group. The tree was formed with ten distinctive clades with the haplotypes congregated together based on similar genetic composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the spread intensity and population dynamics of invasive plant species is a prerequisite for developing management strategies in the Himalayan Forest ecosystems that are experiencing an accelerated rate of climate change. Although there are studies on the occurrence of few invasive species in the Himalayan ecosystems, systematic information on their intensity of spread and species association is still missing. Considering existing data gaps, we aimed to assess the intensity of spread and distribution pattern of A. adenophora, one of the high-concern invasive species (HiCIS) of India that is causing havoc in the Himalayas, across an elevational gradient. Field data were collected in 2018 and 2021 in the Indian federal state of Sikkim, located in the Eastern Himalayas. We analyzed the population status and species association of A. adenophora along an elevational gradient ranging from > 600 m to 2700 m above sea level, which was divided into seven gradients of 300 m width, and each gradient was further randomly sampled. Overall, 81 species were present in association with A. adenophora, including 58 herbs, 19 shrubs, and 4 climbers, belonging to 30 families and 67 genera in the region. No other species continuously co-occurred along with A. adenophora throughout the elevation ranging from > 600 m to 2700 m. The species observed increased frequency (100%), density (40.51 ind./100 m 2 ), and basal cover (11.25 cm 2 /m 2 ) in the elevational gradient 1500-1800 m in 2018. In 2021, A. adenophora dominated the highest elevational gradient (< 2400-2700 m) with increased frequency (99.96%), density (58.41 ind./100m 2 ), and basal cover (42.54 cm 2 /100m 2 ), which demonstrated rapid invasion and improved plant health and reproductive vigor in comparison to the lower elevational gradient in Sikkim Himalaya. Despite being completely absent at the highest elevation (< 2400-2700 m), in 2018, it observed gregarious spread at the highest elevation in 2021, which is of serious concern to ecologists. The presence of the targeted species in all seven studied altitudinal gradients reflects stage III of the species invasion. An enormous shift in the distribution pattern along elevational gradients within a short time span is alarming for the Himalayan ecosystem since it is becoming a thriving habitat for invasive species owing to anthropogenic activity. We mapped the potential geographical extent using the species distribution model (SDM) and predicted the suitable habitat of distribution in Sikkim Himalaya. In order to curtail the spread and counteract the negative impact of this species on native vegetation in Sikkim Himalaya and ultimately reverse the process, local and regional initiatives for its biological control and management must be taken., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Pandanus odorifer (Pandanaceae) is an economically important species distributed on coasts from India and Sri Lanka to South China through tropical Asian countries. Pandanus odoratissimus has been widely used as the accepted name for the species, but P. odoratissimus is in reality a superfluous and illegitimate name. No original material of P. odorifer has been traced, and a neotype is designated here for that name. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species of I Schismatomma i described from India were enumerated by Awasthi ([1]) and included eight species: I S. atomellum i (Stirt.) The species I S. atomellum i , I S. cinereum i and I S. gregantulum i were placed in the genus I Phlyctella i Kremp. without proposing any new combinations. However, Singh & Sinha ([12]) retained the species I S. atomellum i , I S. cinereum i , I S. gregantulum i and I S. melastigmum i in ' I Indian Lichens: An Annotated Checklist i ', following Awasthi ([2]). The species I S. atomellum i , I S. cinereum i and I S. gregantulum i were found to have similar morphological, anatomical and chemical characters to the genus I Phlyctis i (Wallr.). [Extracted from the article]

The composition of many Chenopodiaceae genera in different parts of Himalaya and Tibet has been insufficiently known or contradictory. A revision of the family in Himalaya including Bhutan, Nepal, parts of India (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim and Uttarakhand) and Tibet (Xizang, China) is presented for the first time. Altogether, 57 species from 20 genera are reported, including three species new to science (Agriophyllum tibeticum, Salsola austrotibetica and Salsola hartmannii). Atriplex centralasiatica, Corispermum dutreuilii and Salsola monoptera are identified as new records for India and Chenopodium pamiricum is recorded in China for the first time. Dysphania ambrosioides and Sympegma regelii are recorded for Xizang. The generic and species keys, species distributions (including maps) and taxonomic notes are provided. We indicate for the first time that the presence of short yellow hairs is the remarkable morphological characteristic of the genus Grubovia. Evident heterocarpy and heterospermy is found in Dysphania for the first time (Dysphania tibetica). Agriophyllum pungens, Atriplex crassifolia, Atriplex laciniata, Atriplex sagittata, Axyris amaranthoides, Axyris hybrida, Bassia indica, Corispermum korovinii, Dysphania schraderiana (=Chenopodium foetidum auct.), Halocharis violacea and Suaeda microsperma are excluded from the species list. Neobotrydium corniculatum is synonymised with Dysphania kitiae, Neobotrydium longii with Dysphania himalaica and Neobotrydium ornithopodum seems to be conspecific with Dysphania nepalensis. Corispermum ladakhianum is a new synonym of Corispermum tibeticum. Amaranthus diandrus is added to the synonyms of Acroglochin persicarioides, and Bassia fiedleri, previously considered as conspecific with Grubovia dasyphylla, is added to the synonymy of Bassia scoparia. Lectotypes of Anabasis glomerata (≡Halogeton glomeratus), Halogeton tibeticus (=Halogeton glomeratus), Amaranthus diandrus (=Acroglochin persicarioides), Chenopodium tibeticum (≡Dysphania tibetica), Corispermum dutreuilii, Corispermum falcatum, Corispermum lhasaense, Corispermum pamiricum var. pilocarpum (=Corispermum gelidum, syn. nov.), Corispermum tibeticum, Kochia indica (≡Bassia indica), Kochia odontoptera (≡Bassia odontoptera) and Salsola monoptera are selected. Out of 53 native elements, 42 are restricted in their distribution to Himalaya and Tibet at altitudes 2000-4500 m above sea level. The greatest taxonomic diversity of the Chenopodiaceae is represented in Jammu and Kashmir (India) and Xizang (China) with a continuous decrease in the number of species southwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is a cosmopolitan vegetable and widely cultivated in almost all the countries of the world including India. Irreversible investment – production ratio for tomato cultivation in recent Indian agricultural systems arise the question, is there any biotic backlogs responsible for such a production loss. Our present investigation is based on this fact. Target leaf spot disease of tomato is caused by Corynespora cassiicola, a serious and emerging disease in India. Prolonged real time surveillance of this disease on tomato from 2010–11 to 2016–17, reflects some remarkable features of pathogenic progress in Gangetic alluvial region of West Bengal. This pathogen is the natural barrier for tomato production with a disease severity ranged between 35% and 58% which ultimately causes tremendous loss of tomato foliage and fruits. C. cassiicola was identified on the basis of morpho-cultural (ITCC Accession No. 7542) and molecular characterization (Genbank Accession No. KJ767193). Homology searching of internal transcribed spacer region of CcHaTom isolate was highly matched with Genbank Accession No. KP666184 (Cynodondactylon/India), AB873045 (Vitex negundo/India) and JN541214 (Malvaviscus concinnus/USA) with 95% similarity. Phylogenetic analysis established that KJ767193 and C. cassiicola retrieved sequences were conspecific from a common ancestral origin, which supports its neighbourhood with this fungal pathogen. Optimum temperature between 24 and 25 °C, coupled with 80–85% relative humidity triggered the disease progress. From the emerging scenario, C. cassiicola infecting tomato is the real threat for indigenous cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nomenclatural status of the names Memecylon deccanense C.B. Clarke, M. heyneanum Benth. ex Wight & Arn., M. jambosioides Wight and M. wightianum Triana is discussed here. The name M. jambosioides, earlier considered a synonym of M. heyneanum, is here reinstated and treated as an accepted name. The binomial M. wightianum is rejected as superfluous and illegitimate, and M. deccanense is reduced to a synonym of M. heyneanum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess repeatability and agreement of the Pentacam AXL Wave with that of the iTrace aberrometer., Setting: Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore, India., Design: Prospective, cross-sectional study., Methods: All eyes of patients underwent 3 sets of measurements at a single visit, using Pentacam AXL Wave and iTrace. Lower-order aberrations (LOAs), higher-order aberrations (HOAs), and coma and spherical aberrations (SAs) were analyzed. Repeatability was assessed using within-subject (Sw) SD, test-retest variability (TRT), Sw coefficient of variation (CoV), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess 95% limits of agreement (LoA) and the correlation coefficient (r) to determine strength of relationship between measurements., Results: 100 eyes of 100 patients underwent measurements. Pentacam AXL Wave had repeatability with an ICC for total ocular aberrations ranging from 0.84 for HOAs to 0.92 for LOAs and for corneal from 0.76 for HOAs to 0.86 for LOAs. The Sw, TRT, and CoV of all aberrations were significantly lower (better) than those of iTrace (P < .001). The mean differences between 2 devices were insignificant for the comparison of all parameters, except for spherical aberration (0.011 [0.002571 to 0.02008]; P = .01). Both devices showed excellent correlations for ocular aberrations (total HOAs [P = .12, LoA = -0.52 to 0.025; r = 0.89]; LOAs [P = .14, LoA = -2.71 to 2.61; r = 0.96]; coma [P = .27, LoA = -0.11 to 0.12; r = 0.89]; and SA [P = .01, LoA = -0.09 to 0.07; r = 0.97])., Conclusions: The repeatability estimates for wavefront aberrations using Pentacam AXL Wave were significantly better than those using iTrace. Both devices showed excellent correlations for total ocular aberrations., (Copyright © 2021 Published by Wolters Kluwer on behalf of ASCRS and ESCRS.)

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to identify the latent constructs of various barriers affecting Six Sigma implementation in Indian industries. Design/methodology/approach: Literature review resulted in 15 frequently reported barriers in Six Sigma implementation. An empirical survey of 168 Six Sigma practitioners including green belts, black belts (BB), and master BB from 40 Indian companies was conducted with the help of a structured questionnaire. The responses were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis which resulted into five constructs. Findings: The study proposes five constructs, namely "role of top management," "cultural change," "expected attitude," "availability of resources," and "level of quality maturity." The focused approach by organizations to overcome barriers in Six Sigma can be oriented using these constructs. Practical implications: Six Sigma implementation needs elimination of barriers in projects. Top management support in planning and resource allocation supplemented by favorable employee attitude in bringing cultural change can develop quality maturity to implement Six Sigma successfully. Originality/value: This study fills the gap in the literature by studying critical success factors, critical failure factors, and barriers together. This study is one of its kinds in the Indian context which captures the views of Six Sigma certified professionals from the organizations which are implementing Six Sigma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three recognized Indian endemic taxa of Pittosporum Banks. ex Gaertn. are lectotypified, namely Pittosporum dasycaulon Miq., P. humile Hook. f. & Thomson, and P. neelgherrense Wight & Arn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A taxonomic study on the diversity of the genus Knema Lour. belonging to the family Myristicaceae R. Br. in India revealed the distribution of the ten taxa under four series in North East and Peninsular India and Andaman and Nicobar Islands including two endemic species. Knema ser. Obovoideae W.J. de Wilde is synonymised here under ser. Knema. Series Knema is represented by two species and ser. GlaucaeW.J. de Wilde by one species in North East India, while ser. Laurinae W.J. de Wilde is represented by three species and two subspecies in North East India and Andaman and Nicobar Island, and ser. GlomerataeW.J. de Wilde by 2 species in South and NE India. This is the first taxonomic study on the genus in India. All the taxa are cited with updated nomenclature, diagnostic characters, distribution, phenological data, vernacular names, line drawings, photo plates and specimens examined in various herbaria. Taxonomic keys are provided for easy identification of these taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) had taken the lead in developing Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) for psychiatrists since 2005. Topics include IPS had earlier published CPGs on Ethical and Legal issues in 2009, and the Guidelines had been well received and provided locally relevant suggestions for clinical practice.

Urban expansion and human migration from rural to urban locations have complex relationships with environmental change. Habitat fragmentation, loss of biodiversity and vegetation changes are some of the most common impacts of urbanisation. In many Indian cities, the urban core is characterised by historical human settlements with narrow lanes and packed commercial establishments, while urbanisation that occurred after 1970s preferred spacing between the dwellings with more greenery or urban forestry. As urbanisation progresses, the urban fringes have more scope for incorporating environmental concerns and conservation. In this study, we measured species richness and abundance of birds within varied urban habitats and landscapes along the urban–rural gradient in Tiruchirappalli, India. We also tried to determine the linkage between bird diversity and landscape attributes including anthropogenic factors. Our observations showed that within urban areas, certain landscapes favoured species richness while many habitats are unfriendly for species but encouraged homogenisation. As we move from urban core towards rural gradient, the species richness increased; however, it is not uniform in all peripheral directions. Interestingly, the urban fringes at certain pockets had richness equivalent to rural locations. Species richness positively correlated with vegetation cover while built cover, noise, vehicular movement and pedestrians had negative impacts. As the urban fringes are in various stages of development, they have more scope for integrating ecological and biodiversity considerations and in this aspect wetlands, riverine farmlands and urban forests may play a crucial role in retaining native birds and also supporting migratory bird species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven species of Fimbristylis (Cyperaceae) described by Boeckeler based on collections from India are lectotypified: F. arnottiana, F. disticha, F. filifolia, F. hookeriana, F. paupercula, F. tenuicula and F. thomsonii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The four sections of the little known genus Dimeria R. Br. of the rather anomalous paleotropical subtribe Dimeriinae Hack. (Poaceae-Panicoideae-Andropogoneae) are revised. A key is provided. Three Peninsular Indian species, viz. Dimeria sivarajanii, D. idukkiensis and D. borii are treated here as subspecies of D. bialata, D. kurumthotticalana and D. mooneyi respectively; and five, viz. D. chelariensis, D. copei, D. eradii, D. jayachandranii and D. kollimalayana are reduced to synonymy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lectotype of Syzygium myhendrae (Bedd. ex Brandis) Gamble is designated and its status is reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amorphophallus Blume ex Decne. sect. Amorphophallus in India is revised. It is the smallest of the three sections in India with five species, viz. A. hirsutus Teysm. & Binn., A. kachinensis Engl. & Gehrm., A. longistylus Kurz, A. napalensis (Wall.) Bogner & Mayo and A. paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson. Amorphophallus paeoniifolius is the widely distributed species in India with two varieties, viz. A. paeoniifolius var. paeoniifolius, and var. campanulatus (Decne.) Sivad. Amorphophallus longistylus is the only species of the section endemic to India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PCR-RFLP and nucleotide sequencing based genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii Indian isolates (Izatnagar and Chennai isolates and Chennai clone) vis-a vis RH-IVRI strain was conducted by targeting GRA6 as genetic marker. The 791 bp GRA6 product was PCR amplified from the genomic DNA of different T. gondii Indian isolates, including the RH-IVRI strain. Tru1I restriction endonuclease based PCR-RFLP of GRA6 sequence produced polymorphic digestion pattern that discriminated the virulent RH-IVRI strain (as type I) from the moderately virulent local isolates as type III. The PCR amplicon of T. gondii GRA6 from RH-IVRI strain as well as from the local isolates were cloned in cloning vector and custom sequenced. The nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences of T. gondii isolates were aligned with that of the type I, II and III strains (RH, BEVERLEY, ME49, C56, TONT and NED) available in public domain and analyzed in silico using MEGA version 4.0 software. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of GRA6 marker from the Indian isolates revealed a close genetic relationship with type III strains of T. gondii. Further, detection of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at positions 162 and 171 of the GRA6 marker, established the lineage of Indian isolates as type III. This is the first report on characterization of T. gondii lineage as type III in selective chicken population of India based on PCR-RFLP and sequence analysis of GRA6 gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]