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Abstract The morphometric analysis of the watersheds is essential for the conservation of natural resources, including soil, water, and vegetation. The Morphometric analysis defines the linear, areal and relief aspects of the watershed. It involves the comprehensive analysis of various factors such as drainage network, surface water flow, and other topographical features. The aim of this study is to develop a sustainable watershed management strategy for the Nayar watershed based on morphometry and Land Use Land Cover (LULC) change dynamics. The Nayar watershed has a total area of 1956.33 km2. The multispectral satellite imagery, Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data, and Survey of India (SOI) Toposheets were used for understanding the topographical and morphological characteristics along with the LULC change dynamics. The findings of this research conclude that the Nayar watershed has parallel and dendritic drainage patterns with high relief. According to the LULC change dynamics, the Nayar watershed's area change comprising 57.60 km2 and 57.15 km2, are from Agricultural Land to Wasteland and from Forest Cover to Wasteland, respectively. This shift in the hilly region will increase the risks of landslides and erosion. Furthermore, the change of 110.03 km2 area of Forest Cover to Agricultural Land raises further challenges due to loss of natural vegetation in long run. In summary the change in LULC of Nayar watershed is vulnerable to risk of natural calamities like landslide, erosion. This work would be helpful to many experts and decision-makers for sustainable watershed management and natural resource management.

Purpose: To compare the deviation in cases of horizontal strabismus as assessed from photographs with the measurements as obtained in the strabismus clinic. Methods: After obtaining informed consent, we recruited subjects with manifest horizontal strabismus. We took a frontal flash photograph from a distance of 50 cm using smart-phone-based cameras with the flash light vertically aligned with the lens. After projecting the photograph on a laptop and using a vernier caliper, we measured the horizontal corneal diameter of the non-strabismic eye and the decentration of reflex in the strabismic eye taking limbus as the reference point. We converted these values to degrees by using a conversion factor of 7.5°/mm and further to prism diopters (PD) by the standard mathematical formula 100*tanθ. Results: We included 74 subjects aged between 5 and 40 years with manifest horizontal deviation from 20 to 85 PD. We found a statistically significant correlation of 82.6% (P value < 0.001) between the clinic and photographic measurements. Agreement analysis suggested that the photographic measurements measured on average 7 PD less (95% confidence interval: 4.6 to 9.2) than clinical measurements along all values of misalignment, although the difference between the two methods decreased as the quantum of deviation increased. Linear regression revealed an r2 of 68% and provided a predictive equation to derive clinic equivalent measurements from photographic estimates. Conclusion: We believe our simple method provides robust evidence that a photographic estimation can provide the basic information of the size of the deviation to plan possible surgeries, especially in situations of a tele-consultation. This is an easy approach to both understand and master and should form the armamentarium of most orthopticians and strabismologists.

Uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) have proven to be successful tools for ecological monitoring, providing excellent visual resolution and the ability to cover large areas with spatial accuracy. Artificial Intelligence has further improved the capabilities of UAVs vision through object detection. While deep learning has shown significant success in pattern recognition, it still faces challenges in real-world scenarios. In this study, we focused on enhancing the potential of UAVs for wildlife detection and monitoring, specifically focusing on the globally threatened swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii). To improve the accuracy of animal recognition with UAVs, we used single-stage detectors YOLO (You Only Look Once) V3, V5, V7, V8, Object detection V3 and DETR (DEtection TRansformer). We trained our model using 48,957 augmented images derived from a dataset of 8210 original true dataset. The result shows the superior performance of Object Detection 3.0 and YOLO V8, achieving a precision score of more than 92 % and a F1 score of more than 85 %, compared to DETR, YOLO V7, V5, and V3. Overall, our study provides an efficient, cost-effective, and accurate detection framework for ecological monitoring that can be non-invasively and least distractively used in various demographic studies of cervids in different regions and habitat types. We have also developed a UAV-based real-time object detection framework that seamlessly integrates with front-end technologies, enabling live detection results regardless of connectivity. This framework operates on a local server, synchronizing with consumer-grade UAVs at a rate of 32 frames per second (fps) with 320 pixel resolution using a frame sampling technique, notably without requiring a dedicated Graphical Processing Unit (GPU). This deliberate choice of not using GPU underscores the commitment to cost-effectiveness and aligns with the research's purpose, prioritizing accessibility and affordability for broader scientific exploration. A least distractive ecological sampling technique was optimized and a maximum of 77 deer were detected and counted in real time within Haiderpur wetland in the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. This methodology can be replicated and fine-tuned to study other threatened species of conservation priority. This study exemplifies how combining UAVs with deep learning can facilitate species monitoring and population count estimation and be adopted by forest managers to support conservation decisions.

Ecological niche partitioning is fundamental for the coexistence of sympatric species. However, the relationship between herbivore body size and forage availability on resource segregation and selection remains debatable. This study quantifies the niche differentiation and selectivity of forage species consumed by six Asian large herbivores (SLH), including mega-herbivores like Greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) and Asiatic wild buffalo (Bubalus arnee), and meso-herbivores like swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii), hog deer (Axis porcinus) and sambar (Rusa unicolor) in tropical wet-grasslands of the Brahmaputra floodplains. We hypothesized that body size influences dietary niche breadth and interspecific dietary similarities or dissimilarities, while forage availability influences forage selectivity among Asian herbivores. We used micro-histological technique, harvest method and Jacobs Index to quantify SLH foraging patterns, forage availability and preference, respectively. Results of the study revealed high niche breadth for elephant (0.56>Bs≤0.74) among mega-herbivores and for sambar (0.49>Bs≤0.64) among meso-herbivores. SLH showed a significant positive correlation between body size and niche breadth in wet season. High dietary overlap was recorded between buffalo and hog deer (0.79–0.86) and swamp deer and hog deer (0.75–0.86) among SLH, rhino and buffalo (0.80–0.83) among mega-herbivores, and swamp deer and hog deer (0.75–0.86) among meso-herbivores. High dietary dissimilarity was recorded between elephant and swamp deer (36–37 %), elephant and buffalo (27–33 %), and swamp deer and sambar (27–29 %). Compared to dry season (1354.54 ±641.30 g m˗2), significantly higher biomass was recorded in wet season (3026.93 ±1632.65 g m˗2; p

Abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gears, also known as ghost gears (GG), are major contributors to global marine and freshwater plastic pollution. GG can lead to the accidental entanglement of several threatened freshwater and marine species, especially the air-breathing aquatic vertebrates, which is a matter of global concern. There is a lack of know-how and mechanisms for collecting and recycling GG, leading to their constant accumulation in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we have examined the mortalities of threatened aquatic species in fishing nets and have proposed an incentive-based standard operating procedure (SOP) for effective collection and disposal of GG based on field observations and extant national and international policies and made recommendations for a net buyback scheme as a possible downstream solution to reduce GG in the Ganga River Basin. It is proposed that the collection of GG can be done by the local level institutions of fishing community through the fair-price shops. The nets are then to be deposited at the block-level processing centres to be transported to the district-level consolidating centres. Recycling partners identified by the Government of India will then collect the nets directly from district centres for further upcycling and recycling. A multi-level, multi-stakeholder approach with strong upstream and downstream linkages backed with appropriate policy interventions is needed to tackle the ghost gear issue in the Ganga River basin.

Abstract The three-striped roofed (Batagur dhongoka) is a semi-aquatic turtle that belongs to family Geoemydidae. Due to anthropogenic pressure, it has been facing an intense decline of over 80% in its distribution range in the past 50 years. It is considered as 'Critically Endangered' so effective conservation strategies are needed to protect the species by determining their genetic diversity and population genetic structure. This study investigates the genetic diversity, population structure and demographic pattern of B. dhongoka from two Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre established near Ganga river using mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cyt b: 1140 bp) ; control region (CR: 451 bp) and ten nuclear microsatellite loci. mtDNA results show low levels of nucleotide diversity (π = 0.0022) in B. dhongoka haplotypes and provide evidence for a low substitution rate. The demographic pattern estimated by the Bayesian skyline plot (BSP) analysis indicates historical stability followed by growth in the effective population size, with a recent reduction in population size from ~ 2 thousand years ago. The microsatellite findings show a moderate level of observed heterozygosity (Ho: 0.49). Bayesian-based clustering analysis revealed weak genetic structures in B. dhongoka and presence of admixed assignations suggesting close genetic relationships. These findings shed light on B. dhongoka's genetic status and underline the necessity of comprehensive rehabilitation and relocation programs and conservation and management techniques to ensure the species' long-term survival. In order to ensure the effective protection and conservation of B. dhongoka, the Government of India has taken a proactive measure by incorporating it into Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2022.

Abstract For rewilding the depleted crocodylian populations in India, a targeted ‘one-species one area’ based conservation approach was adopted in the early-1970s. Suitable habitats were identified and designated as protected areas, specifically targeted to recover a particular crocodylian species. A ~ 610 km stretch of Chambal River in the Ganga River Basin was declared as National Chambal Sanctuary to restore the ‘Critically Endangered’ gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), where active management of mugger (Crocodylus palustris) was discouraged. In the present study, we examined the population trends, occupancy, and genetic status of mugger by conducting population monitoring and genetic assessment to understand the status of potentially competitive mugger in the Sanctuary. Our finding suggests that the mugger population has notably increased and colonised the Sanctuary. We observed a moderate level of genetic diversity in the mugger, which was relatively higher compared to the gharial in the Sanctuary. The rapid colonization of ecological generalist mugger raises concerns about potential competition with ecological specialist gharial threatening its long-term sustainability. Considering the coexistence dynamics between the species, it is essential to extend adaptive management strategies for mugger to ensure successful recovery of gharial population in the Sanctuary.

Dietary exposure risks of 39 multi-class Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) to the threatened Gangetic dolphins (Platanista gangetica) were investigated in a conservation-priority segment of the Ganga River. Elevated EDCs bioaccumulation was observed across prey fish species, with di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) significantly contributing to the EDC burden. The concentrations of persistent organochlorines in prey revealed a shift from dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to non-dioxin-like PCBs. The prevalence of regulated p,p' DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and γ-HCH (Lindane) residues suggests regional non-compliance with regulatory standards. The concentration of some EDCs is dependent on the habitat, foraging behavior, trophic level and fish growth. The potential drivers of EDCs contamination in catchment includes agriculture, vehicular emissions, poor solid waste management, textile industry, and high tourist influx. Risk quotients (RQs) based on toxicity reference value were generally below 1, while the RQ derived from the reference dose highlighted a high risk to Gangetic dolphins from DEHP, DDT, DnBP, arsenic, PCBs, mercury, and cadmium, emphasizing the need for their prioritization within monitoring programs. The study also proposes a monitoring framework to provide guidance on monitoring and assessment of chemical contamination in Gangetic dolphin and habitats.

The complex and dynamic networks of river system, vital for the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystem services, are under pressure due to human-induced water stress disrupting ecological processes. Recognition of the importance of rivers as source of life though has led to efforts towards protecting large rivers, nevertheless the conservation and management of smaller rivers remained mostly neglected, creating significant gaps in ecological restoration initiatives. In the present study, we assess the distribution and population status of Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica) in the small rivers in the Ganga River Basin for integrating it into the basin wide river conservation strategy. We observed that the Gangetic dolphin inhabited most tributaries and sub-tributaries of the Ganga River, with a naïve occupancy rate of Ψ̂ = 0.68 ± 0.04 (mean ± SE) having 606 ± 142.77 (mean ± SE) individuals and accounts for 15% of the total Gangetic dolphin population in the Basin. The results of N-mixture and MaxEnt models demonstrate that channel depth, presence of meanders and water discharge were key predictors of distribution in these rivers, and the proximity to confluences were identified as a critical predictor. About 54% (620 km) of 1150 km of the surveyed river stretches exhibited suitability for dolphins in the Basin, indicated by a probability distribution score of ≥0.50. Combining this data with the available information, we delineated a total of 2850 km stretch covering entire Ganga River System suitable for Gangetic dolphins within the Basin. Notably, the 620 km of suitable stretches identified in smaller rivers represent 22% of the overall suitable stretches across the entire basin. These stretches were translated to conservation priority stretches for systematic conservation planning involving various stakeholders for improved river conservation in the Basin.

The forest corridor connecting the Similipal and Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha, India is vital for several wide-ranging animals and the sustenance of a unique lineage of tigers in the landscape. However, this corridor is fragmented in its status quo with mining, road, and rail networks, along with heavy human dependency on the forest. Highlighting the non-use value of ecological goods like forest corridor can support the conservation of the ecosystem against developmental activities. We determine the local communities' willingness to pay (WTP) for the conservation and management of the Similipal-Satkosia corridor using the Contingent Valuation Method. A total of 340 households in 44 villages located within the peripheral development zone of mines were surveyed between January 2020 and March 2021. Double Bounded Dichotomous Choice (DBDC) technique was used to elicit maximum WTP, and spike modelling was employed due to the prevalence of zero WTP in the surveyed responses. The estimated mean willingness to pay for the conservation of the Similipal-Satkosia corridor was ₹ 28.2/household/month (USD 0.37) (without covariates) at a 1 % significant level. WTP was significantly associated with the respondents' higher education level and the household's further distance from the mine. Our study is expected to facilitate policymakers in developing effective forest management and conservation strategies while adhering to sustainable development goals.

One-dimensional polyaniline (PANI) nanostructures were synthesized in situ in the presence of two-dimensional (2D) Montmorillonite (MMT) clay nanosheets. Strong interactions between the polymer and MMT platelets in the nanocomposites were confirmed through spectroscopic studies. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopic studies revealed the clay's profound effect on the polymer's crystallinity and morphology. The clay nanosheets induced higher crystallinity and well-defined nanorod morphology in the polymer structure. Consequently, the nanocomposite showed an electrical conductivity of 8.72 S/cm, closer to that of the pristine polymer (8.97 S/cm), despite the presence of highly insulting clay material. Surprisingly, a notable decrease in the optical bandgap of the polymer from 3.73 to 2.88 eV of the nanocomposite was also observed. This novel integration of a narrow band gap and high conductivity in PANI/MMT nanocomposites can expand their utility for visible light interactions in areas encompassing photocatalysis, photovoltaics, electro/photochromism, and related technologies.

Amberlite IRN-78 resin was incorporated with iron to make a hybrid resin for the removal of silica from the borated water of nuclear power plants. The hybrid resin contained 0.84 wt % iron compounds upon pyrolysis. In batch experiments carried out at room temperature, 1 g of the hybrid resin removed ∼60 μg silica from 1 ppm borated water in ∼120 min. The efficiency of the hybrid material increased with the resin quantity, decreased with silica concentration, and remained unchanged at different pH values. Freundlich and Temkin isothermal adsorption dominated the silica removal process and followed the pseudo-first-order and intra-particle diffusion mechanism simultaneously. The concentration of the leached iron remained appreciably under the safe limits of 200 μg/l during the experiments. This detailed study suggests the use of hybrid resin for the removal of silica from borated water streams and other similar systems.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is mainly considered for causing chronic gastritis, which can lead to several secondary complications like peptic ulcer and pre-malignant lesions for example atrophic gastritis, intestinal dysplasia and metaplasia, with the etiological factor of developing gastric cancer. Recent research demonstrates that H.pylori colonizes the stomach mucosa of more than fifty populations around the globe. This research focuses on unveiling hub genes, and diagnostic and drug targets against said organism by utilizing various types of networking biology and biophysical approaches. In data retrieval, the GSE19826 dataset was obtained from the gene expression omnibus database and microarray data set from array express. Geo2r analysis predicted a total number of 7 DEGs and 10 hub genes, next functional protein association network analysis (STRING) unveiled that among 10 Hub genes only 3 genes were found more interactive with other genes and involved in pathogenesis, The shortlisted three genes were further analyzed for survival analysis using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and predicted the survival rate of targeted genes. Moreover, functional enchainment analysis was done using the ToppFun server, the server predicted that COL11A1 and COL10A1 were more involved in the pathogenesis of the H. pylori infection. Furthermore, the COL10A1 gene was subjected to protein structure prediction. In molecular docking analysis, the asinex antibacterial library was screened for potential inhibitors, and one compound was predicted as a strong inhibitor with the best binding at −10.23 kcal/mol. The docking results were further validated through molecular dynamic simulation analysis and the MD simulation analysis evaluated the dynamic movement of the docked complex in various nanoseconds, the MD simulation results predicted that the docked complexes are stable throughout the simulation and can be used as a potential inhibitor against the said pathogen, however experimental study is required to further validate the predicted results and design drug against targeted pathogen.

Abstract Background In the riverine riparian ecosystem, particularly in India, the knowledge of the effects of habitat disturbance on taxonomic distinctness, functional diversity, and local contribution to β diversity (LCBD) of spider community is elusive. The present study examined the relationships between the index of taxonomic distinctness (Δ+), index of variation in taxonomic distinctness (λ+), functional evenness (FEve), functional divergence (FDiv), functional dispersion (FDis), and LCBD of spider community of the Ganga River and the effects of habitat disturbance on these indices. A total of 27 sampling sites were selected along the bank of the Ganga River. Based on the rating of the disturbance scores, the sites were classified into lowly, moderately, and highly disturbed sites. To understand the relationships between species richness, Δ+, λ+, FDis, FDiv, FEve, LCBD, and habitat disturbance score, Pearson’s correlation was calculated, followed by the linear regression model. The one-way multivariate analysis of variance was used to find differences in taxonomic distinctness and functional diversity in the different disturbed sites. Results Significant relationships were found between λ+ and Δ+, FDis and Δ+, FDis and λ+, FDiv and species richness, FEve and species richness, FEve and λ+, FEve and habitat disturbance, LCBD and FEve, and LCBD and habitat disturbance. A significant difference was present in the indices of functional diversity between the lowly, moderately, and highly disturbed sites. Agriculture, garbage dump, human settlement, and created embankment influenced the spider community's λ+, FEve, and LCBD. Conclusion Unrestrained anthropogenic activities exacerbate habitat disturbance by affecting ecological processes. Thus, understanding linkages between ecosystem disturbance, taxonomic, functional, and β diversity can be fundamental to managing and conserving natural resources. This work highlights the importance of including taxonomic and functional diversity to comprehend the impact of habitat disturbance on riverine riparian spiders beyond just the number of species. An integrated taxonomic and functional diversity approach coupled with β diversity can be used to support environmental assessment, restoration, and conservation planning of the biological resources of the Ganges River.

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), the last surviving crocodilian member of the genus Gavialis, is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and is listed as one of the priorities species under the Evolutionary Distinct and Globally Endangered framework. Historically, the gharial used to occur in all major river systems of the Indian Subcontinent, now found in isolated stretches, mostly within the boundaries of Protected Areas. The gharial population decreased by over 80 % between the 1950s and 1960s due to habitat degradation, poaching, and mortality from passive fishing. The gharial population is, however, rebounding due to concerted conservation efforts launched in the mid-1970s. One of the largest gharial populations outside of the Protected Area is in the Gandak River, a transboundary northern tributary of the Ganga. However, the habitat association of gharial in relation to the rising anthropogenic stressors is not well-documented from an ecological standpoint in the Gandak River. The present study assessed the population status and factors influencing the gharial distribution in the Gandak River. Boat-based visual encounter surveys were conducted for data collection, and generalized linear models (GLMs) were employed to evaluate the factors influencing gharial distribution. The encounter rate fluctuated along the surveyed river stretches, peaking in the upstream. We observed a positive association with channel depth while a negative one with channel width, livestock presence, fishing nets, and fishing boats. The observed pattern of encounter rate and negative association with anthropogenic variables indicate spatial avoidance of these factors. Overall, conservation interventions, such as adaptive management strategies to reduce and remove these factors, are required for long-term gharial persistence in the regulated unprotected riverscape.

Understanding waterbird abundance and distribution in relation to environmental and anthropogenic factors can contribute to effective waterbird management in high altitude wetlands, although it remains a logistical challenge due to the harsh climate. Improved conventional method, the independent count- double observer was used to monitor waterbird population in 24 wetlands, including two Ramsar sites in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh, India. Waterbirds in these wetlands were double-counted in all three seasons over two years, during that a range of environmental and anthropogenic variables and their influence on waterbirds were recorded. Detection probability models were used to get corrected waterbird abundance estimates. Ruddy shelduck, bar-headed goose, and brown-headed gull were the most abundant waterbirds, and autumn was the most abundant season due to the presence of passage migrants. Canonical correspondence analysis revealed that distance to human settlement and distance to nearest road had profound effects on the abundance of waterbird species. Thus, human activities such as tourism need to be regulated, considering the ecological requirements of waterbirds. Resources need to be mobilised to facilitate regular monitoring for efficient management and informed decision making about the conservation of waterbirds and their habitats in the Trans-Himalayan wetlands.

Abstract Large mammals are susceptible to land use and climate change, unless they are safeguarded within large, protected areas. It is crucial to comprehend the effects of these changes on mammals to develop a conservation plan. We identified ecological hotspots that can sustain an ecosystem for the endangered Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), an umbrella species. We developed three distinct ensemble species distribution models (SDMs) for the Bengal tiger in the Indian East Himalayan Region (IEHR). The first model served as the baseline and considered habitat type, climate, land cover, and anthropogenic threats. The second model focused on climate, land use, and anthropogenic threats, the third model focused on climate variables. We projected the second and third models onto two future climate scenarios: RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5. We evaluated the threats possess to protected areas within eco‐sensitive zone based on the potential tiger habitat. Finally, we compared the potential habitat with the IUCN tiger range. Our study revealed that the Brahmaputra valley will serve as the primary habitat for tigers in the future. However, considering the projected severe climate scenarios, it is anticipated that tigers will undergo a range shift towards the north and east, especially in high‐altitude regions. Very high conservation priority areas, which make up 3.4% of the total area, are predominantly located in the riverine corridor of Assam. High conservation priority areas, which make up 5.5% of total area are located in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It is important to note that conservation priority areas outside of protected areas pose a greater threat to tigers. We recommend reassessing the IUCN Red List's assigned range map for tigers in the IEHR, as it is over‐predicted. Our study has led us to conclude both land use and climate change possess threats to the future habitat of tigers. The outcomes of our study will provide crucial information on identifying habitat hotspots and facilitate appropriate conservation planning efforts.

Globally, the conservation value of tropical grasslands, unlike tropical forests, is underappreciated, and their degradation is widespread. Conservation of this vulnerable ecosystem requires scientifically validated management strategies. The present study examines the impact of flooding, herbivory, and other management practices on the riverine grasslands of Brahmaputra floodplains of Assam, India, for devising effective conservation strategies. Inundation period-based unsupervised classification was used to derive the types and extent of grasslands viz., short (SG) and tall (TG). Subsequently, the data on vegetation composition and nutrient status viz., soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), was collected from inside and outside of 15 exclosures that were subjected to different management regimes, including grazing (freely accessed by mega- and meso-herbivores), ungrazed (not accessed by mega- and meso-herbivores), ungrazed with controlled burning and ungrazed with invasive removal. A total of 1152 plots were monitored for two-year, from January 2014 to December 2015. The results of the study revealed that the areas inundated for a longer duration were dominated by SG and had higher species diversity, while areas inundated for the shorter duration were dominated by TG and had low species diversity. We further observed that grazing exclusion promoted heterogeneity, woody and invasive growth, and soil nutrient content. Burning and invasive removal reduced woody and invasive growth and enhanced soil nutrient conditions. Grazing and burning decreased heterogeneity, while invasive removal increased heterogeneity. Alteration of the flooding regime due to reduced water availability may affect the ratio of SG and TG extent in the long run, which may alter the vegetation composition and the productivity of these grasslands. We recommend short-term rotational grazing for SG and long-term for TG to promote heterogeneity and soil quality. Controlled burning can be carried out in dry and invaded areas post uprooting of invasives to mitigate the effect of succession.

Abstract As a traditional water source, springs are vital for Himalayan communities and it is essential to consciously focus on springs conservation. We report oxygen isotopes (δ18O) of spring water before, within, and after the tectonically active zones of the Alaknanda Valley, Uttarakhand. Higher variation of δ18O in the spring waters is found in highly tectonically disturbed zone i.e., Zone-2 with δ18O range − 4.9‰ to − 9.0‰ compared to tectonically less disturbed zones: Zone-1 and Zone-3 with δ18O value range − 7.9‰ to − 9.9‰ and − 7.4 to − 10.2‰ respectively. We hypothesize that the highly active thrust zones (Zone-2) with increased permeability compared to other Zones, manifested as greater spring density, results in higher water recharge in Zone-2. Very high to high spring density stretches are dominant in Zone-2 compared to Zone-1 and Zone-3. Stretches in Zone-2 with high spring density formed due to its highly tectonically active nature leads to the higher isotopic variation in Zone-2. The study also identifies the geosystem services provided by thrust zones as water resources to the local people and need of conservation modalities to manage the spring water resources in the thrust zones.

Abstract Jarman–Bell (1974) hypothesized that in the dry savanna of Africa, small-bodied herbivores tend to browse more on forage with high protein and low fibre content. This implies browsing on high nutritive forage by meso-herbivores, and grazing and mixed feeding on coarse forage by mega-herbivores. We tested this hypothesis in the riverine alluvial grasslands of the Kaziranga National Park (KNP), where seasonal flood and fire play an important role in shaping the vegetation structure. We analyzed the feeding habits and quality of major forage species consumed by three mega-herbivores, viz. greater one-horned rhino, Asian elephant, and Asiatic wild buffalo, and three meso-herbivores, viz. swamp deer, hog deer, and sambar. We found that both mega and meso-herbivores were grazers and mixed feeders. Overall, 25 forage plants constituted more than 70% of their diet. Among monocots, family Poaceae with Saccharum spp. (contributing > 9% of the diet), and, among dicots, family Rhamnaceae with Ziziphus jujuba (contributing > 4% of the diet) fulfilled the dietary needs. In the dry season, the concentration of crude protein, neutral detergent fibre, calcium, sodium, and phosphorous varied significantly between monocots and dicots, whereas only calcium and sodium concentrations varied significantly in the wet season. Dicots were found to be more nutritious throughout the year. Compared to the dry season, the monocots, viz. Alpinia nigra, Carex vesicaria, Cynodon dactylon, Echinochloa crus-galli, Hemarthria compressa, Imperata cylindrica, and Saccharum spp., with their significantly high crude protein, were more nutritious during the wet season. Possibly due to the availability of higher quality monocots in the wet season, both mega and meso-herbivores consume it in high proportion. We concluded that the Jarman–Bell principle does not apply to riverine alluvial grasslands as body size did not explain the interspecific dietary patterns of the mega and meso-herbivores. This can be attributed to seasonal floods, habitat and forage availability, predation risk, and management practices such as controlled burning of the grasslands. The ongoing succession and invasion processes, anthropogenic pressures, and lack of grassland conservation policy are expected to affect the availability of the principal forage and suitable habitat of large herbivores in the Brahmaputra floodplains, which necessitates wet grassland-based management interventions for the continued co-existence of large herbivores in such habitats.

Purpose: To evaluate the Canon CP-TX1 camera as a screening tool for ARFs in a pediatric population and estimate the prevalence of ARFs. Methods: In a pediatric outpatient space, largely in the immunization clinic, after obtaining parental consent, we encouraged children to be photographed from a distance of 5 feet in a dim room by using a CP-TX1 camera with the red-eye reduction feature off. Based on the captured red reflex, children were labeled as normal (symmetrical red reflexes in the two eyes, with no visible crescents); all others were considered as abnormal or positive for ARFs. All photographed children were assessed by an optometrist/refractionist for VA by age-appropriate methods. Data were entered into a 2 × 2 contingency table on statpages.org, and diagnostic indices were calculated with 95%CI. Results: With a sample of 262 children, we obtained a sensitivity of 0.82, a specificity of 0.98, a positive predictive value of 0.92, a negative predictive value of 0.94, a positive likelihood ratio of 41.06, a negative likelihood ratio of 0.17, and a prevalence of 0.24 for ARFs. Conclusion: CP-TX1 performed well as a screening tool to identify ARFs in children. Placing such a camera in an immunization clinic offers a chance to identify children with ARFs at a time when amblyopia is eminently reversible.

Globally, the river ecosystems are threatened due to human-driven exploitation and indiscriminate resource use. The rate of species loss is a magnitude higher in these ecosystems, hence, identifying conservation priority areas as refugia, using the flagship-cum-indicator species approach can aid in long-term conservation of multiple species and ensure uninterrupted functioning of ecological processes. For effective conservation planning, we derived the site occupancy and abundance of Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica) as a flagship species in the Ganga River Basin, and modelled their distribution vis-à-vis river conditions for identifying Conservation Priority Stretches (CPS). The study incorporates the first-ever basin-wide (4635 km river) Gangetic dolphin (GD) sightings to estimate range decline, abundance, and identify CPS of select rivers in the Basin. A total of 2151 sightings of surfacing dolphins with mean encounter rate of 0.55 ± 0.09 sightings/km of the river was observed from the surveyed stretch. The GD encounter rate varied significantly across the surveyed rivers (Analysis of Variance, F = 3.08, p

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is a key player in cancer and tissue homeostasis and regulates renewal of several stem cell types. The FGF2 role in malignant glioma is proven and tagged FGF2, a novel druggable target, is used for developing potent drugs against glioblastoma. In this study, Asinex 51412372, Asinex 51217461, and Asinex 51216586 were filtered to show the best binding affinity for FGF2 with binding energy scores of −8.3 kcal/mol, −8.2 kcal/mol, and −7.8 kcal/mol, respectively. The compounds showed chemical interactions with several vital residues of FGF2 along the compound length. The noticeable residues that interacted with the compounds were Arg15, Asp23, Arg63, and Gln105. In dynamic investigation in solution, the FGF2 reported unstable dynamics in the first 100 ns and gained structural equilibrium in the second phase of 100 ns. The maximum root mean square deviation (RMSD) value touched by the systems is 3 Å. Similarly, the residue flexibility of FGF2 in the presence of compounds was within a stable range and is compact along the simulation time length. The compounds showed robust atomic-level stable energies with FGF2, which are dominated by both van der Waals and electrostatic interactions. The net binding energy of systems varies between −40 kcal/mol and −86 kcal/mol, suggesting the formation of strong intermolecular docked complexes. The drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties also pointed toward good structures that are not toxic, have high gastric absorption, showed good distribution, and readily excreted from the body. In summary, the predicted compounds in this study might be ideal hits that might be further optimized for structure and activity during experimental studies.

Abstract The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a critically endangered crocodylian, endemic to the Indian subcontinent. The species has experienced severe population decline during the twentieth century owing to habitat loss, poaching, and mortalities in passive fishing. Its extant populations have largely recovered through translocation programmes initiated in 1975. Understanding the genetic status of these populations is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of the ongoing conservation efforts. This study assessed the genetic diversity, population structure, and evidence of genetic bottlenecks of the two managed populations inhabiting the Chambal and Girwa Rivers, which hold nearly 80% of the global gharial populations. We used seven polymorphic nuclear microsatellite loci and a 520 bp partial fragment of the mitochondrial control region (CR). The overall mean allelic richness (Ar) was 2.80 ± 0.40, and the observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosities were 0.40 ± 0.05 and 0.39 ± 0.05, respectively. We observed low levels of genetic differentiation between populations (F ST = 0.039, P

Abstract Escalation of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) is a barrier to the conservation of ecological corridors across the globe. The existing mechanisms to counter HWC are either economically and socially taxing, or ineffective for long-term management. We assessed HWC in the corridor linking the Rajaji and Corbett Tiger Reserves in Uttarakhand, India, and its drivers, along with the benefits derived by local communities from the forest. We designed an innovative incentive-based mitigation mechanism to encourage coexistence of people and wildlife around the corridor. Costs incurred due to conflict and benefits derived from the forest were assessed using semi-structured questionnaire-based personal interviews (n = 757) with representatives from forest dependent households (hh). Fuelwood (1678.7 ± 131 kg hh−1 year−1), fodder (4772 ± 186 kg hh−1 year−1) and green/dry grass (3359 ± 104 kg hh−1 year−1) contributed 3 ± 1%, 6 ± 0.5% and 9 ± 1%, respectively, to the annual income of dependent households. 69% of the households practising agriculture reported crop damage by wild animals, 19% of the households that owned livestock reported livestock loss, and 1.58% reported attack on humans resulting in injuries. The cost incurred due to crop raiding and livestock depredation was US $ 159.83 ± 1.0 hh−1 year−1 and US $ 229.32 ± 34.0 hh−1 year−1, respectively. Crop loss was positively associated with the number of crops grown per season and cultivation of sugarcane, wheat and pulses, and negatively with distance from forest and cultivation of fodder and finger millet. Livestock depredation was negatively associated with distance from forest and positively with number of livestock owned, primarily calves. The accounting profit from cultivating a hectare of land, in the absence of crop depredation by wild animals, was estimated at US $ 3571.84 ha−1 year−1 and US $ 361.44 ha−1 year−1 for the plains and hills, respectively. This value can be used to calculate the payments to be paid to local communities to encourage them to adopt HWC resistant agricultural and pastoralism practices. The net present value of benefits from participating in the payments to encourage coexistence programme for 5 years, discounted at 12%, was US $ 12,875.7 ha−1 for the plains and US $ 1302.9 ha−1 for the hills.

BackgroundBesides catastrophes, infrastructural damages, and psychosocial distress, terrorism also imposes an unexpected burden on healthcare services. Considerably, adequately-prepared and responsive healthcare professionals affirms effective management of terrorism-related incidences. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate physicians' preparedness and response toward terrorism-related disaster events in Quetta city, Pakistan.MethodsA qualitative design was adopted. Physicians practicing at the Trauma Center of Sandeman Provincial Hospital (SPH), Quetta, were approached for the study. We conducted in-depth interviews; all interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for thematic contents by a standard content analysis framework.ResultsFifteen physicians were interviewed. The saturation was achieved at the 13th interview however we conducted another two to validate the saturation. The thematic content analysis revealed five themes and 11 subthemes. All physicians have experienced, responded to, and managed terrorism-related disaster events. They were prepared professionally and psychologically in dealing with a terrorism-related disaster. Physicians identified lack of disaster-related curricula and training, absence of a standardized protocol, recurrence of the disaster, and hostile behavior of victim's attendants during an emergency as critical barriers to effective terrorism-related disaster management. Among limitations, all respondents mentioned workspace, and resources as a foremost constraint while managing a terrorism-related disaster event.ConclusionAlthough physicians understood the abilities and had the required competencies to mitigate a terrorism-related disaster, lack of workspace and resources were identified as a potential barrier to effective disaster management. Based on the results, we propose reconsideration and integration of the medical curriculum, particularly for terrorism-related disaster management, collaboration, and communication among various stakeholders to manage terrorism-related disaster events competently.

The wellbeing of mountain communities is determined by the availability and accessibility of ecosystem goods and services. We assessed the relationship between forest quality and wellbeing of local communities of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) in the Upper Ganga River Basin, Western Himalayas, India. We used 14 relevant Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations as indicators to assess wellbeing. Data on these indicators were collected in 22 villages that were selected based on secondary demographic information, remoteness, and the state of the forest resources, which we classified into degraded and less-degraded. Semi-structured questionnaire-based interviews were conducted in randomly selected households (n = 764). The households located close to forests scored higher on wellbeing indicators than the households located further away from forests as they have better accessibility to forest resources and freshwater, which provides alternatives to market and agricultural products. Households with access to less-degraded resources also had access to wild fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants adding to their food and health security. Our study found that the combination of climate change, declining forest resources, and the expansion of the market-based economy is leading to shifts in traditional cropping patterns and hence the nutritional status and forest use patterns of local people, making them vulnerable to diseases and hunger. Accessibility to an intact forest patch near a village contributes to the wellbeing of people and increases their resilience in the face of climate change and the changes dictated by the market forces.

Abstract Eld's deer (Rucervus eldii) with three recognised subspecies (R. e. eldii, R. e. thamin, and R. e. siamensis) represents one of the most threatened cervids found in Southeast Asia. The species has experienced considerable range contractions and local extinctions owing to habitat loss and fragmentation, hunting, and illegal trade across its distribution range over the last century. Understanding the patterns of genetic variation is crucial for planning effective conservation strategies. This study investigated the phylogeography, divergence events and systematics of Eld's deer subspecies using the largest mtDNA dataset compiled to date. We also analysed the genetic structure and demographic history of R. e. eldii using 19 microsatellite markers. Our results showed that R. e. siamensis exhibits two divergent mtDNA lineages (mainland and Hainan Island), which diverged around 0.2 Mya (95% HPD 0.1–0.2), possibly driven by the fluctuating sea levels of the Early Holocene period. The divergence between R. e. eldii and R. e. siamensis occurred around 0.4 Mya (95% HPD 0.3–0.5), potentially associated with the adaptations to warm and humid climate with open grassland vegetation that predominated the region. Furthermore, R. e. eldii exhibits low levels of genetic diversity and small contemporary effective population size (median = 7, 4.7–10.8 at 95% CI) with widespread historical genetic bottlenecks which accentuates its vulnerability to inbreeding and extinction. Based on the observed significant evolutionary and systematic distance between Eld’s deer and other species of the genus Rucervus, we propose to classify Eld's deer (Cervus eldii) in the genus Cervus, which is in congruent with previous phylogenetic studies. This study provides important conservation implications required to direct the ongoing population recovery programs and planning future conservation strategies.

Haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were determined for apparently healthy Manipur’s Brow Antlered Deer (4) or Sangai (Rucervus eldii eldii) maintained at the Conservation Breeding Centre, Langol, Manipur under semi-captive conditions. Venous blood samples were collected from the animals via the jugular vein puncture following immobilization using drug mixture of medetomidine and ketamine. Results were determined for haematological and serum biochemical parameters for the species and because of limited published information available results were compared with values obtained from captive reared Thamin (Rucervus eldii thamin) and captive/free ranging Red deer (Cervus elaphus elaphus). Higher total white blood cell, absolute lymphocyte and eosinophil, total bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase were recorded in Manipur’s Brow antler deer than Red deer, while serum biochemical parameters such as sodium, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and sodium were higher while creatinine, albumin, triglycerides and cholesterol were lower than Thamin deer. The values reported here can be used as a starting point for establishing blood parameters for clinically healthy adult Manipur’s Brow Antlered Deer in India. To our knowledge, this is the first report of base-line blood values for the Manipur’s Brow Antlered Deer.

Conservation depends on acquiring timely knowledge on species’ ecology to alleviate the risks of biodiversity loss driven by anthropogenic stressors. Himalayan freshwater ecosystems are exceedingly threatened by the compounding effects of rising developmental pressure and climate change, jeopardizing biodiversity nested within this imperilled landscape. Riverine ecosystems of the Himalayan foothill forests of India are a stronghold of the vulnerable smooth-coated otter populations. This study entails the understanding of resource utilisation by the smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) in terms of habitat use and dietary composition in seven rivers along the Himalayan foothills in India. We surveyed 121.09 km of rivers for otter signs and associated habitat variables. Using Generalised Linear Models, we assessed the factors influencing otter habitat use. We estimated the relative abundance and catch per unit effort of fish species and evaluated otter diet based on spraint samples (n = 120) using frequency of occurrence and score-bulk estimate methods. Habitat use by otters is governed by a combination of habitat components, which are intricately linked to different requirements such as feeding, grooming, and denning. We found that habitat use was positively associated with channel depth, moderate vegetation, and bank substrate types – bedrock, boulders, sand, and grass. Whereas, increasing distance to escape cover, sparse vegetation, channel width, and anthropogenic disturbance negatively influenced habitat use. Dietary analyses revealed that relatively abundant fish species viz., Tor putitora and Barilius vagra, predominated the diet of otters. Echoing the principles of optimal foraging theory, our results indicated that small-medium sized fishes of the size range 79.05–199.92 mm, were consumed more often, and larger fishes (> 263.24 mm) were consumed opportunistically. Our findings provide important conservation insights on the status of the smooth-coated otter, their interactions with different habitat components, and dietary spectrum in rivers of the Himalayan foothills. Overall, our study gives cognizance to the importance of preserving freshwater and riparian habitats to ensure the persistence of otters and their prey in the region.

The ongoing antibiotic-resistance crisis is becoming a global problem affecting public health. Urgent efforts are required to design novel therapeutics against pathogenic bacterial species. Brucella melitensis is an etiological agent of brucellosis, which mostly affects sheep and goats but several cases have also been reported in cattle, water buffalo, yaks and dogs. Infected animals also represent the major source of infection for humans. Development of safer and effective vaccines for brucellosis remains a priority to support disease control and eradication in animals and to prevent infection to humans. In this research study, we designed an in-silico multi-epitopes vaccine for B. melitensis using computational approaches. The pathogen core proteome was screened for good vaccine candidates using subtractive proteomics, reverse vaccinology and immunoinformatic tools. In total, 10 proteins: catalase; siderophore ABC transporter substrate-binding protein; pyridoxamine 5′-phosphate oxidase; superoxide dismutase; peptidylprolyl isomerase; superoxide dismutase family protein; septation protein A; hypothetical protein; binding-protein-dependent transport systems inner membrane component; and 4-hydroxy-2-oxoheptanedioate aldolase were selected for epitopes prediction. To induce cellular and antibody base immune responses, the vaccine must comprise both B and T-cells epitopes. The epitopes were next screened for antigenicity, allergic nature and water solubility and the probable antigenic, non-allergic, water-soluble and non-toxic nine epitopes were shortlisted for multi-epitopes vaccine construction. The designed vaccine construct comprises 274 amino acid long sequences having a molecular weight of 28.14 kDa and instability index of 27.62. The vaccine construct was further assessed for binding efficacy with immune cell receptors. Docking results revealed that the designed vaccine had good binding potency with selected immune cell receptors. Furthermore, vaccine-MHC-I, vaccine-MHC-II and vaccine-TLR-4 complexes were opted based on a least-binding energy score of −5.48 kcal/mol, 0.64 kcal/mol and −2.69 kcal/mol. Those selected were then energy refined and subjected to simulation studies to understand dynamic movements of the docked complexes. The docking results were further validated through MMPBSA and MMGBSA analyses. The MMPBSA calculated −235.18 kcal/mol, −206.79 kcal/mol, and −215.73 kcal/mol net binding free energy, while MMGBSA estimated −259.48 kcal/mol, −206.79 kcal/mol and −215.73 kcal/mol for TLR-4, MHC-I and MHC-II complexes, respectively. These findings were validated by water-swap and entropy calculations. Overall, the designed vaccine construct can evoke proper immune responses and the construct could be helpful for experimental researchers in formulation of a protective vaccine against the targeted pathogen for both animal and human use.

The freshwater turtles of the iconic Ganga river system are one such group of vulnerable turtles. Despite common knowledge of the severity of turtle trade in the region, Gangetic turtles continue being poached in large volume, evident from the numerous and extensive seizures across the Gangetic belt. The intensive wildlife trade in Gangetic turtles warrants immediate conservation and management attention. The genetic resource is a vital forensic tool to monitor the Gangetic turtle species to understand the pattern of illegal wildlife trade. We collected 64 softshell and hardshell turtles samples from the Ganga river and report species-specific variations among turtle species based on mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1140 bp) and nuclear Cmos gene (602 bp). This genetic information will help augment the molecular database to identify Gangetic turtle species and lineages effectively. We identified unique species-specific variable sites, haplotypes, and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) and analyzed genetic differentiation and phylogenetic relationships. The unique mitochondrial and nuclear signatures exhibited in this study will add to baseline information on the genetic relationship of turtles of river Ganga. It will be helpful in wildlife forensics characterization of the endangered turtles. It will also help in formulating in-situ and ex-situ conservation and management plan to improve the rescue and rehabilitation strategies.

The Endangered Hog Deer Axis porcinus has experienced drastic population declines throughout its geographical range. There is limited knowledge of its current population status, particularly from northeastern India. In this study the population density of Hog Deer was assessed in Manas National Park, which was a deer stronghold prior to the armed conflict that lasted for almost two decades, resulting in depressed deer populations. With the cessation of conflict, efforts were invested by both government and conservation organisations for the recovery and conservation of charismatic fauna in the park. Studies on Hog Deer populations, however, were lacking and thus reliable information on current status is unavailable. Current population status and threats faced by Hog Deer were assessed to aid informed conservation decisions. Distance sampling techniques (line transects) were applied in the grassland habitat during the dry season of two consecutive years. The estimated Hog Deer density was 18.22±3.32 km-2. The potential threats to Hog Deer identified in Manas include habitat loss, habitat degradation due to spread of invasive plant species, illegal hunting, and other anthropogenic disturbances. Our study suggests that the Hog Deer population, though reviving, needs immediate conservation attention.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a human coronaviruses that emerged in China at Wuhan city, Hubei province during December 2019. Subsequently, SARS-CoV-2 has spread worldwide and caused millions of deaths around the globe. Several compounds and vaccines have been proposed to tackle this crisis. Novel recommended in silico approaches have been commonly used to screen for specific SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors of different types. Herein, the phytochemicals of Pakistani medicinal plants (especially Artemisia annua) were virtually screened to identify potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease enzyme. The X-ray crystal structure of the main protease of SARS-CoV-2 with an N3 inhibitor was obtained from the protein data bank while A. annua phytochemicals were retrieved from different drug databases. The docking technique was carried out to assess the binding efficacy of the retrieved phytochemicals; the docking results revealed that several phytochemicals have potential to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 main protease enzyme. Among the total docked compounds, the top-10 docked complexes were considered for further study and evaluated for their physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. The top-3 docked complexes with the best binding energies were as follows: the top-1 docked complex with a −7 kcal/mol binding energy score, the top-2 docked complex with a −6.9 kcal/mol binding energy score, and the top-3 docked complex with a −6.8 kcal/mol binding energy score. These complexes were subjected to a molecular dynamic simulation analysis for further validation to check the dynamic behavior of the selected top-complexes. During the whole simulation time, no major changes were observed in the docked complexes, which indicated complex stability. Additionally, the free binding energies for the selected docked complexes were also estimated via the MM-GB/PBSA approach, and the results revealed that the total delta energies of MMGBSA were −24.23 kcal/mol, −26.38 kcal/mol, and −25 kcal/mol for top-1, top-2, and top-3, respectively. MMPBSA calculated the delta total energy as −17.23 kcal/mol (top-1 complex), −24.75 kcal/mol (top-2 complex), and −24.86 kcal/mol (top-3 complex). This study explored in silico screened phytochemicals against the main protease of the SARS-CoV-2 virus; however, the findings require an experimentally based study to further validate the obtained results.

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacterial species is a major threat to public health and has resulted in high mortality as well as high health care costs. Burkholderia mallei is one of the etiological agents of health care-associated infections. As no licensed vaccine is available against the pathogen herein, using reverse vaccinology, bioinformatics, and immunoinformatics approaches, a multi-epitope-based vaccine against B. mallei was designed. In completely sequenced proteomes of B. mallei, 18,405 core, 3671 non-redundant, and 14,734 redundant proteins were predicted. Among the 3671 non-redundant proteins, 3 proteins were predicted in the extracellular matrix, 11 were predicted as outer membrane proteins, and 11 proteins were predicted in the periplasmic membrane. Only two proteins, type VI secretion system tube protein (Hcp) and type IV pilus secretin proteins, were selected for epitope prediction. Six epitopes, EAMPERMPAA, RSSPPAAGA, DNRPISINL, RQRFDAHAR, AERERQRFDA, and HARAAQLEPL, were shortlisted for multi-epitopes vaccine design. The predicted epitopes were linked to each other via a specific GPGPG linker and the epitopes peptide was then linked to an adjuvant molecule through an EAAAK linker to make the designed vaccine more immunologically potent. The designed vaccine was also found to have favorable physicochemical properties with a low molecular weight and fewer transmembrane helices. Molecular docking studies revealed vaccine construct stable binding with MHC-I, MHC-II, and TLR-4 with energy scores of −944.1 kcal/mol, −975.5 kcal/mol, and −1067.3 kcal/mol, respectively. Molecular dynamic simulation assay noticed stable dynamics of the docked vaccine-receptors complexes and no drastic changes were observed. Binding free energies estimation revealed a net value of −283.74 kcal/mol for the vaccine-MHC-I complex, −296.88 kcal/mol for the vaccine-MHC-II complex, and −586.38 kcal/mol for the vaccine-TLR-4 complex. These findings validate that the designed vaccine construct showed promising ability in terms of binding to immune receptors and may be capable of eliciting strong immune responses once administered to the host. Further evidence from experimentations in mice models is required to validate real immune protection of the designed vaccine construct against B. mallei.

The trade of Himalayan caterpillar fungus, or Ophiocordyceps sinensis, is believed to have transformed the rural economy of certain Himalayan villages. Most scholarly work on the caterpillar fungus focuses on its ecology, physiology, and pharmacological attributes, followed by conservation and sustainability issues. Few studies have tried to understand it from a socioeconomic and political perspective. Of the few studies examining its economic contribution to households, most are concentrated in Nepal and Tibet, and a handful focus on India. In the present study, we estimated the mean annual cash income per household in Gori valley, Kumaon Himalaya, and the relative economic contribution of caterpillar fungus. We compared the incomes of caterpillar fungus collectors with those of noncollectors, identified harvest trends from 2009 to 2017, and took stock of people's perceptions regarding this short seasonal occupation. Results show that earnings from caterpillar fungus contribute 60–78% to the annual household income of collectors, with noncollectors earning 15–55% less than collectors. The study suggests that an increase in the number of harvesters may explain an observed decline in individual harvests. Though caterpillar fungus provides opportunities for economic emancipation to half the valley's population, inconsistent harvest, unreliable prices, and illegality of the trade are decreasing its viability for many. Furthermore, discordant and complex governance meted out through various state directives is increasingly jeopardizing this local natural resource-based livelihood enhancement strategy—a strategy that has incidentally outperformed concerted state efforts for poverty alleviation in the region.

This study explored the resilience of mountain forests in a protected area in Alaknanda River basin, Western Himalaya, to various disturbance scenarios. The resource dependency of village communities in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary Landscape was studied through a questionnaire survey in 10 villages situated along an elevational gradient. Vegetation sampling was done in government-owned sanctuary forests and community-owned forests, both visited by villagers. Forest community composition, regeneration status, and tree population structure were studied to understand the impact of disturbance on forests and their resistance to anthropogenic alterations. Results indicated a reduction in both fuelwood and fodder consumption with decreasing elevation, with villages at higher elevations and located inside the sanctuary depending more on forest resources. Forests showed evidence of disturbance in the form of lower basal cover, mean canopy cover, regeneration, and disturbance-influenced distribution of shrubs. However, despite the signs of secondary succession, Quercus leucotrichophora forest has retained the original tree species composition. Vegetation recovery on 3 landslide sites at varying successional stages was also studied. The old successional site had higher species richness than early successional sites. The only tree species with adult individuals recorded in early successional sites was Alnus nepalensis, an early successional nitrogen-fixing species. The community composition of the old successional site, at Bandwara, included young individuals of Q. leucotrichophora, the climax species of forests in that elevational range. The current forest structure of both disturbed forest and vegetation recovery on the old succession site indicate the resilient dynamism of native Himalayan forests. Considering the role of mountain forests in achieving sustainable development, it is imperative to study the dynamics of changes in forest community and structure in response to increasing human pressure and climate change impacts.

In many aquatic species, alteration of habitats and human-induced barriers shape the population's genetic structure in rivers with longitudinal connectivity. The golden mahseer, Tor putitora (GM) is an endangered and sensitive cyprinid species. It is considered an indicator of a healthy freshwater ecosystem and is found in cold-water habitats. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how longitudinal connectivity and anthropogenic factors affect the diversity and population genetic structure of GM. The population genetic structure, gene flow and demography of the GM in four Himalayan rivers were investigated by mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (cyt b) as well as microsatellite genotyping. The results showed overall high mtDNA diversity (hd: 0.795) couple with low nucleotide diversity (π: 0.0012) in all GM populations. We also found significant levels of observed heterozygosity (ranging from 0.618 to 0.676), with three genetic clusters. The mtDNA and microsatellite analysis suggested that there are close genetic relationships between the Bhagirathi and Ganga populations; whereas, significant level of genetic differentiation was observed with that of Alaknanda and Yamuna populations. Haplotype distribution, unimodal distribution graph and results of the neutrality test indicated a sign of recent population growth in the GM population. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) and spatial molecular variance (SAMOVA) revealed existence of genetic structures in GM populations. In addition, spatial genetic analysis detected a significant correlation between the pairwise genetic and geographical distances for the entire study area (Mantel test, rM = 0.126; P = 0.010). Considering the significant level of heterozygosity, high rate of unidirectional migration and the intra-population structuring in Alaknanda and Yamuna, it is crucial to propose an effective conservation plan for the GM populations. In general, dams obstruct continuous water flow and create isolated microhabitats. Therefore, we recommend the establishment of microscale protected areas near GM breeding sites and construction of fish pass to maintain the genetic connectivity of fish species that enhance viable populations.

The population of the globally endangered hog deer (Axis porcinus) has declined severely across its geographic range. Intensive monitoring of its demographic and genetic status is necessary. We examined the demographic and genetic structure of a small hog deer population in Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP), located on the western fringe of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot for conservation planning. The distribution pattern of hog deer in the Park was derived based on the presence/absence of faecal pellets in 1 km × 1 km grids. We used double-observer distance sampling method to derive the hog deer abundance and population structure and compared with previous data to derive the population trend. We determined the genetic diversity of the population through microsatellite screening and bottleneck detection. The overall pellet density was 0.34 ± 0.02 pellets km-2 restricted to only 22.34 ± 0.20 km2 area of the park. The estimated density of the deer in the park was 1.82-4.32 individuals km-2. The population showed a declining trend from 2006-08 (p < 0.05, R2 = 0.916) with 8% annum-1 and an increasing trend from 2003-2018 (p < 0.05, R2 = 0.9304) with 10% annum-1. The adult male-to-female ratio and fawn-to-doe ratio were 36.2 ± 1.9 males per 100 females and 16.5 ± 0.4 fawns per 100 females, respectively. The molecular examination suggested that the mean number of alleles at 23 loci was 2.70 ± 0.18, the observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranged from 0.26 to 0.63 (mean 0.42 ± 0.02), the expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.23 to 0.73 (χ = 0.51 ± 0.03), and the polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.2 to 0.67 (χ = 0.43 ± 0.03) indicating a moderate level of genetic diversity. Although no bottleneck in the population was observed, the loss of genetic diversity may affect the evolutionary potential of the species at the site by limiting the selection flexibility. Conservation planning coupled with scientific management regime will help in the long term persistence of the population in the region.

The Eld’s deer or brow-antlered deer (Rucervus eldii) is one of the most endangered cervids of Southeast Asia. Geographically, it has three distinct subspecies; Sangai or Manipur's brow-antlered deer (R. e. eldii), Siamese brow-antlered deer (R. e. siamensis) and Thamin or Myanmar’s brow antlered deer (R. e. thamin). We examined the genetic diversity of wild and captive populations of R. e. eldii and compared its relationship with other subspecies using mtDNA control region gene. During the analysis, only one haplotype was detected in 30 samples of R. e. eldii. No genetic variation was observed among the R. e. eldii populations. The reduced genetic diversity indicates that the population has passed through the bottleneck effect that might have resulted in the inbreeding depression.

We describe six novel ungulate-specific conserved primers for sequencing the complete mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene of selected threatened species from degraded samples for effective conservation planning. These primers amplified 301–1599 bp DNA fragments in various combinations. The method described may assist in the sequencing of either complete gene from moderate to good quality DNA or shorter fragment from degraded DNA.

The information bottleneck method is a generic clustering framework from the field of machine learning which allows compressing an observed quantity while retaining as much of the mutual information it shares with the quantity of primary relevance as possible. The framework was recently used to design message-passing decoders for low-density parity-check codes in which all the arithmetic operations on log-likelihood ratios are replaced by table lookups of unsigned integers. This paper presents, in detail, the application of the information bottleneck method to polar codes, where the framework is used to compress the virtual bit channels defined in the code structure and show that the benefits are twofold. On the one hand, the compression restricts the output alphabet of the bit channels to a manageable size. This facilitates computing the capacities of the bit channels in order to identify the ones with larger capacities. On the other hand, the intermediate steps of the compression process can be used to replace the log-likelihood ratio computations in the decoder with table lookups of unsigned integers. Hence, a single procedure produces a polar encoder as well as its tailored, quantized decoder. Moreover, we also use a technique called message alignment to reduce the space complexity of the quantized decoder obtained using the information bottleneck framework.

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is an important legume well grown in semiarid and arid environment. Hydrogen peroxide solutions (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mM) have been used to optimize growth and photosynthetic performance of cowpea plant at two growth stages [30 and 45 DAS (days of sowing)]. Foliar application of H2O2 at 0.5 > 1.0 mM solution at 29 DAS optimally promoted the photosynthetic attributes [leaf chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate (PN), water use efficiency, and maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm)] and growth performance [root and shoot length; fresh and dry weight] of plants where the responses were more significant at the later growth stage. It was favored by activity of enzymes as carbonic anhydrase [CA; E.C. 4.2.1.1] and nitrate reductase [NR, E.C. 1.6.6.1] and those of antioxidant enzymes viz. peroxidase [POX; EC 1.11.1.7], catalase [CAT; EC 1.11.1.6], and superoxide dismutase [SOD; EC 1.15.1.1] and leaf proline content. Strengthened root system and antioxidant activity, particularly leaf proline level appeared to be the key factor for efficient photosynthesis and growth responses.

Background: It is not clear what factors determine divergent outcomes of infections caused by H.pylori. The aim of this study was to differentiate H. pylori strains isolated from the patients with different gastroduodenal pathologies by protein profiling. Material and methods: The protein profiles of different strains of H. pylori isolated from 3 groups of patients with ulcerative disease, nonulcerative gastritis and cancer disease were analyzed using 1D-SDS-PAGE. Results: Based on the highly divergent protein patterns, the similarity of the strains inside each group was 75%, 76.47% and 78.57% for cancerous, ulcerative and no ulcerative groups, respectively, while about 30.76% of the protein bands were common in all strains isolated from three groups of the patients. Some of the observed bands were significantly specific for each group. We speculated that some H. pylori strains might be more associated with a specific disease than others, leading to the clustering of some, but not all, strains within each disease group. Conclusion: This study showed that protein profile can be a criterion used for discriminating of dominant states in different gastric clinical states. Specific and dominant proteins of different strains isolated from three groups of patients under the study could be welcome candidates for further exploration to be used both for laboratory tests, which analyze disease-specific H. pylori strains, and for diagnosis of different diseases and outcomes associated with this widespread bacterium.

Excess cadmium accumulation in shoot decreases the photosynthetic attributes and the activity of carbonic anhydrase (CA; E.C. 4.2.1.1) thereby retarding plant growth metabolism, in a cultivar dependent manner. Two mustard (Brassica juncea) varieties were treated with increasing cadmium doses (0, 25, 50 or 100 mg CdCl2 kg−1 of soil) in the soil in a net house. The photosynthetic features, activity of CA, and the yield attributes were recorded in association with morphological characters. A clear-cut difference in these features was noted among the varieties, where Varuna excelled in its resistance to the cadmium toxicity with better growth and yield, at harvest.

Pakistan enjoys pivotal position among energy-rich Central Asian States and Gulf countries. Export Promotion Zones (EPZs) are playing important role in the economic development of countries since the formation of these zones. In Pakistan, Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) was established in 1980. Comparative research studies and reports in literature depict that economic share of EPZs of Pakistan is not much impressive and its economic share in the country lags behind neighboring countries. EPZA hence is faced with external factors like devaluation of rupee, euro country crisis, foreign investors’ retention and attraction in Pakistan but this study aims to analyze internal factors or impediments that have a direct impact on foreign investment. Data was collected through survey questionnaire from respondents (n=480). Data was analyzed using SPSS (11.5 Version). Regression results identify work environment, bhatta culture, high inflation, political instability, inadequate skill enhancement, inadequate training and infrastructural facilities as major impediments for EPZ development in Pakistan. Thus, this study concludes that positive work environment, political stability and security, adequate infrastructural facilities, appropriate location of industrial units, upgradation of workers skill, provision of training, overcoming the bhatta culture and stable inflation will help boosting the development and performance of export promotion zones of Pakistan.

Abstract Background Recent, rapid growth in the quantity of available genomic data has generated many protein sequences that are not yet biochemically classified. Thus, the prediction of biochemical function based on structural motifs is an important task in post-genomic analysis. The InterPro databases are a major resource for protein function information. For optimal results, these databases should be searched at regular intervals, since they are frequently updated. Results We describe here a new program JIPS (Java GUI for InterProScan), a tool for tracking and viewing results obtained from repeated InterProScan searches. JIPS stores matches (in a local database) obtained from InterProScan searches performed with multiple versions of the InterPro database and highlights hits that have been added since the last search of the InterPro database. Results are displayed in an easy-to-use tabular format. JIPS also contains tools to assist with ortholog-based comparative studies of protein signatures. Conclusion JIPS is an efficient tool for performing repeated InterProScans on large batches of protein sequences, tracking and viewing search results, and mining the collected data.